KR20230144059A - Aerosol delivery system - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol delivery system is provided for generating an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator, wherein the aerosol delivery system comprises a controller and an indicator, wherein the controller is configured to: determine whether the temperature of the serving system is below a predefined threshold temperature; and in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.

Description

Aerosol delivery system

This disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems, such as nicotine delivery systems.

Aerosol delivery systems generally comprise a reservoir of aerosol-generating material, such as a solid, liquid or part of a gel, or a source liquid, which may contain an active substance and/or flavor, from which, for example, Thermal vaporization produces an aerosol or vapor for inhalation by the user. Accordingly, aerosol delivery systems/electric smoking systems typically vaporize or aerosolize a portion of an aerosolizable material (e.g., a solid material such as a cigarette) to generate a vapor or aerosol in an aerosol generating chamber. an aerosol generator arranged to generate an aerosol, for example a heating chamber comprising a heating element or an aerosol generating chamber. When a user inhales on the device and electrical power is applied to the heating element, air flows through an inlet hole and into an inlet air channel leading to an aerosol generation chamber - where the air mixes with the vaporized precursor material to form a condensed aerosol. It is sucked into the device along the way. The outlet air channel is connected from the aerosol generating chamber to the outlet of the mouthpiece, and when the user inhales on the mouthpiece, the air drawn into the aerosol generating chamber continues to move to the mouthpiece outlet along the outlet flow path, producing an aerosol. It is carried together so that the user can inhale it. Some aerosol delivery systems may also include flavoring elements to impart additional flavors to the airflow path passing through the device. These devices may sometimes be referred to as hybrid devices, where the flavoring element may be a solid aerosol-generating and/or flavoring material, for example a cigarette, arranged in the air flow path between the aerosol-generating chamber and the mouthpiece. A portion may be included to allow aerosol/condensed aerosol drawn through the device to pass through that portion of solid material before exiting the mouthpiece for inhalation by the user. In some aerosol delivery systems, the aerosol generating material comprises a source liquid contained in a cartridge or pod containing a heating element and an aerosol generating chamber, the cartridge being mechanically and electrically connected to a control unit for use. are combined. The control unit includes a battery and control circuitry that together supply power to the heating element through the cartridge.

As mentioned above, aerosol delivery systems use an aerosol generator, such as a heater, to transfer energy to an aerosol-forming material to generate an aerosol, for example through thermal vaporization. However, energy is dissipated (e.g., through conduction, convection, or radiation) to components other than the heater and aerosol-forming material (e.g., structural components that support the heater or aerosol-forming material). or can be transmitted in other ways, causing the temperature of other components of the system to rise. This can lead to undesirable results.

Various approaches are described here that are intended to help solve or alleviate at least some of the problems discussed above.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol delivery system is provided for generating an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator, the aerosol delivery system comprising a controller and an indicator, the controller comprising: After the end of the session, determine whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature; and in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.

According to a second aspect of the disclosure, a controller is provided for use with an aerosol delivery system to generate an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol presentation device for an aerosol presentation system for generating an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator, the aerosol presentation device comprising a controller and an indicator; , the controller determines, after termination of the use session, whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature; and in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.

According to a fourth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method of controlling an aerosol delivery system to generate an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator, the method comprising: determining whether the temperature of the serving system is below a predefined threshold temperature; and in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, controlling the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.

According to a fifth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided aerosol providing means for generating an aerosol for user inhalation from the aerosol generating means using an aerosol generating means, the aerosol providing means comprising control means and indicator means, the control means comprising: means for determining, after termination of a use session, whether the temperature of the aerosol dispensing means is below a predefined threshold temperature; and in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol presentation means is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator means to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol presentation system is below the predefined threshold temperature.

The features and aspects of the invention described above in relation to the first and other aspects of the invention are, where appropriate, equally applicable to embodiments of the invention according to other aspects of the invention, as described above. It will be understood that combinations of these embodiments may be possible, as well as the specific combinations described above.

Now, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.
1 is a schematic cross-sectional view through an exemplary aerosol delivery system 1 in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
2 schematically illustrates a method of controlling aspects of an electronic aerosol delivery device according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
3 is a schematic cross-sectional view through an exemplary device portion 2 according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.
4 schematically illustrates a further method of controlling aspects of an electronic aerosol presentation device according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

Aspects and features of specific examples and embodiments are discussed/described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be implemented conventionally and are not discussed/described in detail for the sake of brevity. Accordingly, it will be understood that aspects and features of the devices and methods not described in detail herein may be implemented according to any prior art for implementing such aspects and features.

As described below, an aerosol presentation system having an aerosol generator, such as a heater, is configured to transfer energy to an aerosol-forming material to generate an aerosol, for example through thermal vaporization. Excess or “lost” energy may be transferred (e.g., by conduction, convection) to components other than the heater and aerosol-forming material (e.g., structural components supporting the heater or aerosol-forming material, or housing components). or through radiation) or may be transmitted in other ways, causing the temperature of other components of the system to rise. In particular, the dissipation of energy may increase the temperature of the system's external surfaces, which may come in contact with the user's skin, clothing, and other objects.

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, after use of the device, determine (e.g., calculate, establish) whether the temperature of the device is below a predefined threshold temperature, and determine whether the temperature of the device is below the predefined threshold temperature (e.g., (e.g., in response to determining that the temperature of the device has fallen below a predefined level or value) to indicate (e.g., via audible, visual, or haptic means) that the temperature of the device is below a predefined threshold temperature. An aerosol presentation device or system is provided having a control unit configured to control an indicator.

For example, a device that is still warm when stored in a backpack or pocket may cause side effects in the user (e.g. unpleasant sensations) or may cause damage to the user's other belongings (e.g. cell phone, cosmetics, food and drinks, etc.). Since it can cause side effects, a threshold temperature can be set to reduce the risk of side effects. The user of the device, after noticing the indicia, will subsequently be instructed that they can safely place the device (e.g., in a bag or pocket of their clothing) to minimize or mitigate these side effects. A device with a control unit according to embodiments of the present disclosure is advantageous in that the user may consider an increase in surface temperature of the device as undesirable, which may be uncomfortable when close to the skin or may be caused by heating. This is because it can cause marks or other damage to fragile belongings.

For example, if a device whose temperature exceeds a predefined level is placed within a pocket, the device may remain relatively close to a portion of the user's skin (e.g., the user's thigh in the case of a pants pocket) while simultaneously maintaining the surrounding area. Because it is shielded from airflow and insulated by layers of pocket and clothing material, the presence of the device may cause discomfort to the user. Additionally, or alternatively, when a device with a relatively high temperature is placed in close proximity to an object susceptible to damage by heating, or in a confined space (e.g., in a pocket or bag), transfer from the device to the object (e.g. For example, heat can be transferred (directly or indirectly, through conduction, convection or radiation) and cause marks or other damage to objects. For example, objects containing delicate fabrics such as silk may discolor and be damaged as energy is transferred from the device to the object. For example, an object containing food may be damaged when energy is transferred from the device to the object, altering the properties of the food (for example, the chocolate in a candy bar or biscuit may melt and become deformed).

As discussed above, the present disclosure relates to aerosol presentation/delivery systems (which may also be referred to as vapor delivery systems). As used herein, the term “delivery system” includes systems that deliver at least one substance to a user, using any combination of electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and aerosol-generating materials. Included are non-flammable aerosol delivery systems that release compounds from the aerosol-generating material without combusting the aerosol-generating material, such as hybrid systems that generate aerosols.

According to the present disclosure, a “non-flammable” aerosol delivery system is one in which the aerosol-generating materials that make up the aerosol delivery system (or components thereof) do not combust or are burned to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user. .

In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol delivery system.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not a requirement. Should be.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system is an aerosol generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a cigarette heating system.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol generating materials, one or more of which can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be in solid, liquid or gel form, for example, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. Solid aerosol generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

Typically, a non-flammable aerosol delivery system may include a non-flammable aerosol delivery device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include an aerosol generating material and are configured for use with non-flammable aerosol presentation devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout this disclosure.

In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, e.g., a non-flammable aerosol delivery device thereof, can include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electrical power source or a thermal power source. In some embodiments, the heating power source includes a carbon substrate that can be powered to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or a heat transfer material proximate to the heating power source.

In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol delivery system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol modifier.

In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol delivery device include aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage region, an aerosol-generating material transport component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating region, a housing, a wrapper, and a filter. , a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol modifier.

In some embodiments, the material to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material or a material not intended to be aerosolized. If appropriate, any material may include one or more active ingredients, one or more flavors, one or more aerosol former materials, and/or one or more other functional materials.

An aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating an aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. For example, aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of solids, liquids or gels that may or may not contain active substances and/or flavoring agents. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may include an “amorphous solid,” which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid, such as a liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may comprise, for example, about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% of an amorphous solid to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of an amorphous solid. .

The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and/or flavors, one or more aerosol former materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials. The aerosol former material may include one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol former material is glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl Laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene. It may contain one or more of carbonates. One or more other functional ingredients may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.

A consumable is an article that contains or consists of aerosol-generating materials, some or all of which are intended to be consumed during use by a user. The consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage region, aerosol-generating material transport component, aerosol-generating region, housing, wrapper, mouthpiece, filter, and/or aerosol modifier. The consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater that emits heat to cause the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol upon use. For example, the heater may include a combustible material, a material that can be heated by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

A susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetrating a changing magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrically conductive material, so that penetrating a changing magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, so that penetrating a changing magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. Because the susceptor can be both electrically conductive and magnetic, the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a changing magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

An aerosol modifier is a substance that is typically located downstream of the aerosol generating area and is configured to modify the generated aerosol, for example by altering the taste, flavor, acidity or other properties of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier may be provided to an aerosol modifier release component operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier.

Aerosol modifiers may be, for example, additives or adsorbents. For example, an aerosol modifier may include one or more of flavoring agents, colorants, water, and carbon adsorbents. Aerosol modifiers may be solid, liquid or gel, for example. Aerosol modifiers may be in powder, thread or granular form. The aerosol modifier may be free of filtration material.

An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to apply thermal energy to the aerosol-generating material to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material without heating. For example, an aerosol generator may be configured to apply one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy to the aerosol generating material.

1 is a cross-sectional view through an exemplary aerosol delivery system/non-combustible heating device 1 in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. The aerosol delivery system (1) includes two main components: a reusable device portion (2) and a replaceable consumable/cartridge/cartomiser portion (4).

In normal use, the reusable device portion 2 and the consumable portion 4 may move the consumable portion 4 into the chamber 50 of the reusable device portion 2, which includes the heater chamber zone/heating zone 53. are releasably coupled/attached together by partial or complete insertion. 1 schematically shows a reusable device part 2 with a consumable part 4 partially received into a chamber 50 . Chamber 50 includes a cylindrical tube extending into reusable device portion 2 from the outer housing surface of the reusable device portion. In this example, the chamber extends into the device from the outer surface of the mouthpiece end of the reusable device portion 2, defined as the uppermost portion of the reusable device portion when held by a user in their hand for use, the chamber 50 extends parallel to the long axis of the reusable device portion 2. Hole 51 provides communication between chamber 50 and the exterior of the device.

Schematically, the reusable device portion (2) heats one or more aerosol-generating materials within the consumable portion (4), typically directly via one or more heating elements associated with a heating zone (53) of the chamber (50), or transmitting electrical energy or a magnetic field into the consumable portion 4 to activate an aerosol generator, such as a heating element in or on the consumable portion 4, thereby generating an aerosol that is inhaled by the user. In use, the user inserts the consumable part 4 into the chamber 50 of the reusable device part through the hole 51 and then opens the reusable device part 2 using, for example, a button 14. By activating, the reusable device portion 2 supplies power from the power supply/battery 26 to the aerosol generating element to aerosolize the aerosol generating material(s) contained in the consumable portion 4 for inhalation by the user. Let it be done. The user then draws on the mouthpiece 41 of the consumable part 4 extending outside the hole 51 at the end of the mouthpiece of the reusable device part 2 to release the aerosol generated by the reusable device part 2. Inhale. When the user draws on the mouthpiece 41 of the consumable part 4, air flows into the air inlet 24 disposed on the outer surface of the reusable part 2, along the air inlet channel 25, and into the chamber. is drawn into the heating zone 53 of the consumable portion 4, where air is introduced into the at least one air inlet 42 of the consumable portion 4 to remove a portion of the aerosol-generating material 43 contained in the consumable portion 4. It is accompanied by vapors/aerosols generated by aerosolization/heating. For a specific example, FIG. 1 shows a device arranged around a heating zone 53 of a chamber 50 to provide heat to a portion of the consumable portion 4 containing aerosol generating material 43, as further described herein. The delivering heating element 48 is schematically shown. The entrained vapor/aerosol moves through the consumable part 4 towards the mouthpiece end of the reusable device part 2 (from which the mouthpiece 41 of the consumable part 4 extends), where the aerosol droplets It condenses or further condenses in the vapor/aerosol, forming a condensed aerosol which exits the mouthpiece 41 of the consumable portion 4 for inhalation by the user.

The reusable portion 2 includes an outer housing having an opening defining an air inlet 24, a power source 26 (e.g. a battery) for providing operating power for the aerosol delivery system, and operation of the aerosol delivery system. includes control circuitry 22 for controlling and monitoring, an optional user input button 14, an optional display 16, and a visual display/visual feedback indicator 28. The outer housing of the reusable device part 2 can be formed, for example, of plastics or metal materials, or any other material known to the person skilled in the art. To provide a specific example, the reusable device portion 2 may have a length of approximately 80 mm in some embodiments, and the consumable portion 4 has the length of the reusable device portion when fully inserted into the chamber 50. It extends about 10 to 30 mm from the mouthpiece end, so that the overall length of the aerosol delivery system 1 when the consumable portion and the reusable device portion are joined together is about 90 to 110 mm. The consumable part 4 may have a diameter of approximately 80 mm. However, as already mentioned, it will be appreciated that the overall shape and scale of the aerosol delivery system implementing embodiments of the present disclosure is not critical to the principles described herein.

The power source 26 in this example is rechargeable and can be of conventional types, such as non-combustible heating devices, tobacco heating devices, electronic cigarettes and other types of electric currents of relatively high currents over relatively short periods of time. It may be of the type commonly used in aerosol delivery systems such as other applications requiring delivery (e.g., lithium-ion batteries). The power source 26 can be recharged via a charging connector in the reusable partial housing, which includes, for example, a micro USB or USB-C connector, which can also be connected to the controller 22 and a smartphone or personal computer. An interface for data transfer between the same external processing devices may be provided.

A user input button 14 may optionally be provided, in this example the user input button is a conventional mechanical button, for example comprising a spring loaded component that can be depressed by the user to establish electrical contact. can do. In this regard, input buttons 14 may be considered input devices for detecting user input, and the specific way the button is implemented is not critical (e.g., a capacitive touch sensor and/or a touch-sensitive display may contain elements). A plurality of such buttons may be provided, one or more of which may be configured to turn the aerosol delivery system 1 on and off and adjust user settings such as the power supplied to the aerosol generator 48 from the power source 26; and/or selecting one or more device modes. However, including user input buttons is optional, and in some embodiments such buttons may not be included.

An optional display unit 16 may in some cases be provided on the outer surface of the housing of the reusable device part 2 . Display unit 16, if included, may be a pixilated or non-pixilated display unit (e.g., a single LED, array of LEDs, liquid crystal display (LCD)) connected to controller 22. , including light-emitting diode (LED) displays, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) displays, electroluminescent displays (ELD), plasma display panels (PDP), and e-ink displays). can do. A person skilled in the art may implement such a display according to any approaches known in the art. This display can be used to display usage information to the user regarding use of the aerosol delivery system 1. Exemplary forms of usage information that may be displayed to a user via optional display unit 16 are further described herein.

At least one visual feedback indicator 28 is provided, wherein a display area is visible on the outer surface of the housing of the reusable device portion 2, wherein the visual feedback indicator 28 indicates one or more aspects of the operation or state of the device. It is configured to provide visual feedback to the user. This visual feedback may be, for example, whether the system is on or off, the selected operating mode, the amount of charge or aerosol-generating material remaining in the aerosol delivery system, the temperature of the heating element, or the intensity of the user's inhalation on the device (e.g. , derived from an air flow sensor, as further described herein). This information may be displayed before, during and/or after a puff or session at the aerosol delivery device. The visual feedback indicator used to display this information may include a display panel comprising a plurality of pixels and may be, for example, an LCD, LED, OLED, AMOLED, ELD, PDP, e-ink display, or known to those skilled in the art. It may include any other type of pixilated display panel. Additionally or alternatively, visual feedback indicator 28 may include one or more non-pixilated display elements, such as one or more LEDs. As described in further detail herein, the at least one visual feedback indicator 28 is provided on the housing of the reusable device portion 2 from one or more illuminated visual feedback elements located within the housing of the reusable device portion 2. one or more light guiding elements, such as one or more light pipes, optical fibers or other transparent or translucent light transmission elements, configured to guide visual feedback signals to one or more display zones on the surface, within the housing surface, or visible through the housing surface. It may also be included.

Controller 22 is suitably configured/programmed to control the operation of the aerosol delivery system to provide functionality in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure as further detailed herein, as well as to control such devices. Conventional operational features of an aerosol delivery system are also provided in accordance with established technologies for: The controller (processor circuitry) 22 can be considered to logically contain various subunits/circuitry elements associated with different aspects of the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1. In this example, controller 22 includes power supply control circuitry for controlling the supply of power from power source 26 to aerosol generator 48 in response to user input, configuration settings (e.g. , user-programmed circuitry for establishing user-defined power settings), and other functional units in accordance with the principles described herein and typical operating aspects of aerosol delivery systems, such as display drive circuitry and user input detection circuitry/ Circuitry contains associated functionality. The functionality of controller 22 may include, for example, one or more suitably programmed programmable computer(s) configured to provide the desired functionality and/or one or more suitably configured application specific integrated circuit(s)/circuitry/chip(s). )/chipset(s), it will be appreciated that it may be provided in a variety of different ways. Controller 22 transmits data between the reusable device portion 2 and an external computing device, such as a smartphone or personal computer (not shown), via a wireless transmission protocol such as Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), or Zigbee. It may include a wireless transceiver and associated control circuitry to enable transmission. Controller 22 may also include one or more data storage elements (e.g., ROM or RAM elements and same memory elements).

In some embodiments of the disclosure, reusable device portion 2 is electrically connected to controller 22 and in fluid communication with a portion of the air flow path between air inlet 24 and mouthpiece 41. It may include an air flow sensor 30, such as a pressure sensor or a flow sensor (eg, a hot wire anemometer). For example, the air flow sensor 30 may be placed on a wall of the air inlet channel 25 or chamber 50 and/or the air flow defined by the air inlet channel 25 or chamber 50. It may extend at least partially into a portion of the path or across a portion of the air flow path. In some embodiments, a combined air flow and temperature sensor is used to allow the temperature of the air flow in a portion of the air flow path within the device to be determined. In some embodiments, the air flow sensor comprises a so-called “puff sensor” in that the signal from air flow sensor 30 is used by controller 22 to detect when the user puffs on the device. . In some embodiments (e.g., controller 22 detects a signal from air flow sensor 30 indicative of pressure and/or flow rate in the air flow path between air inlet 24 and mouthpiece 41 and detection of the user's puff (by determining that it is above or below a predefined threshold) is used by the controller 22 to control the supply of power to the aerosol generator/heater 48. Accordingly, controller 22 may distribute electrical power from power source 26 to aerosol generator 48 in dependence at least on signals received by controller 22 from air flow sensor 30 . A signal output from the air flow sensor 30 (which may include measurements of the capacitance, resistance, or other characteristics of the air flow sensor made by the controller 22) is transmitted from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48. The particular manner used by the controller 22 to control the supply of power to (e.g., air flow through the aerosol delivery system as determined based on the signal output by the air flow sensor 30) (e.g., by providing the aerosol generator 48 with an amount of power proportional to its characteristics (e.g., pressure, flow rate and/or velocity)). In some cases, a signal received from a pressure sensor (i.e., aerosol generator 48 is 'puff activated') is used by controller 22 to turn on and/or turn off the supply of power to aerosol generator 48. (For example, power is supplied when the air flow parameter value determined based on the signal received from the air flow sensor 30 is on one side of a predefined threshold, and the air flow parameter value is on the side of the predefined threshold. If the other side is not supplying power). In other embodiments, the supply of power to the aerosol generator 48 is controlled through other means (e.g., by button 14), with the delivery of power being received by the controller 22 from an air flow sensor. is modified based on a signal (e.g., modulated proportionally to an air flow parameter determined based on a signal received from the air flow sensor 30). However, it will be appreciated that including an air flow sensor is optional, and in some embodiments an air flow sensor is not included. In these embodiments, the supply of power to the aerosol generator 48 may be turned on and off by button 14, or turned on by button 14 and controlled by a controller after a predetermined or predefined period of time has elapsed. The supply of power to the aerosol generator 48 can be turned off by (22). For example, the controller 22 may be supplied with a predetermined or predefined input signal (e.g., via a button 14), or a suitable sensor may indicate that the user has inserted the consumable part 4 into the chamber 50. Upon detecting (including detecting via), the controller may begin supplying power from the battery 26 to the aerosol generator 48 and start a timer. If the elapsed time/activation duration of the timer reaches a predefined threshold (e.g., 210 seconds), the controller 22 may discontinue supplying power to the aerosol generator 48. The duration of activation of the aerosol generator 48 at a given power level is set based on the time it takes for the aerosol generator 48 to aerosolize/volatilize a predefined amount of aerosol generating material 48 from the consumable portion 4. It can be. The appropriate activation duration (i.e., the time during which the controller 22 automatically cuts off power to the aerosol generator 48 after the aerosol generator 48 is activated) can be determined using experimentation or modeling for a given consumable portion (4). ) can be determined.

In some embodiments, the hole 51 in the reusable part 2, which allows the consumable part 4 to be inserted into the chamber 50, can be opened and closed by a door (not shown); This door can be moved between a closed position and an open position to allow insertion of the consumable part 4 into the reusable device part 2 when in the open position. The door may be flush with the mouthpiece end surface of the reusable device portion and may be configured to slide along an axis between an open and closed position or to rotate between an open and closed position. A spring or magnet may bias the door between open and closed positions to hold the door in either the open or closed position as the user slides or rotates the door to either position.

The reusable portion (2) typically includes an aerosol generator (48) located near the heating zone (53) of the consumable chamber (50). An aerosol generator is an element or device configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material of the consumable part 4, for example by heating. Accordingly, in some embodiments, aerosol generator 48 includes a heater configured to apply thermal energy to the aerosol-generating material within consumable portion 4 to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. . In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator 48 may be configured to volatilize the aerosol-generating material within the consumable portion 4 by exposing the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy. It will be appreciated that in a two-part device as shown in Figure 1, portions of the aerosol generator 48 may be in either the reusable device portion 2 and/or the consumable portion 4. In some cases, the consumable portion 4 may include a cartridge containing an electrically operated aerosol generator (e.g., a heater), in addition to the aerosol generator 48 within the reusable device portion 2. Or alternatively, the reusable device portion 2 may be configured to generate an aerosol generator of the consumable portion 4 when the consumable portion 4 is fully received within the chamber 50 using a power source 26 within the reusable device portion 4. and an electrical interface comprising electrical contacts disposed in the chamber 50 in electrical connection with the controller 22 .

In some embodiments of the disclosure, the aerosol generator 48 comprising at least one heating element comprises a chamber/receiving recess into which the consumable portion 4 containing the aerosol generating material 43 is inserted for heating. It is formed as a cylindrical tube with a hollow internal heating chamber configured in use to provide thermal energy to the heating zone 53 of the recess 50. As described in more detail herein, the heating element may form directly a part of the tube containing chamber 50, or may be located around or adjacent to heating zone 53 of the tube containing chamber 50. can be placed. Different arrangements for the aerosol generator/heater 48 are possible. In some embodiments, heater 48 includes a single heating element (e.g., a resistive trace, track, and/or winding), or a heater 48 is formed longitudinally about the longitudinal axis of chamber 50. Or it may be formed of a plurality of heating elements aligned transversely (eg radially). Each of the one or more heating elements included in heater 48 may be annular or tubular about its circumference, or at least partially annular or partially tubular. The one or more heating elements may comprise one or more thin film heaters comprising one or more resistive tracks on a heat-resistant substrate comprising, for example, a polyimide film. The one or more heating elements may comprise ceramics material, including for example aluminum nitride or silicon nitride ceramics, which can be laminated and sintered into one or more heat generating layers to form a heater according to approaches known in the art. You can. Other heater arrangements are possible and may include, for example, inductive heating elements, infrared heater elements that emit infrared radiation to heat, or resistive heating elements formed, for example, by a resistive electrical winding. In the latter case, the resistive winding may be arranged around a ceramic, metal or heat-resistant polymer tube, or may be embedded within such a tube, which may comprise a heating section 53 of the chamber 50 or (53) may be arranged around it to dissipate heat into a cavity within it. Battery 26 is electrically coupled to the heating element to supply electrical power when needed and heats the aerosolizable material of consumable 4 under control of control circuitry 22 (as discussed further below). Volatilizes aerosolizable materials without burning them).

The rate at which the aerosol generating material within the consumable portion is vaporized by the aerosol generator/heater 48 depends on the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48. Accordingly, electrical power may be applied to the aerosol generator 48 to selectively generate aerosols from the aerosol generating material within the consumable 4, under control of the controller 22, for example, pulse width and/or frequency. Through modulation techniques, the rate of aerosol generation may be altered by varying the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48.

In some embodiments, the at least one heating element included in the aerosol generator 48 is a thermally conductive tube, for example formed of stainless steel, comprising a portion of the wall of the chamber 50 containing the consumable portion 4. Supported by and surrounding it. At least the portion of the tube proximate to the heating element(s) may be considered to comprise the heating zone 53 of the chamber 50. The internal diameter of the tube containing chamber 50 is sized in proportion to the diameter of the consumable part 4 to be inserted into the tube. The tube may be slightly tapered (not shown) from the wider diameter of the hole 51 to the narrower diameter of the base of the chamber distal to the hole 51 so that the consumable portion 4 is positioned in the chamber ( When sliding into the chamber 50, the end distal to the mouthpiece 41 is compressed slightly radially when the consumable portion 4 reaches the end of its movement into the chamber 50, causing the consumable portion 4 to enter the chamber 50. 50) to be held gently within. This arrangement can prevent the consumable part 4 from accidentally sliding out of the reusable device part 4, for example if the reusable device part 4 is turned over during use. Additionally, the chamber 50 may be slightly flared or chamfered at the hole ends to allow consumable parts to be easily guided into the chamber 50. Accordingly, chamber 50 may serve as an elongated support for supporting consumable portion 4 containing aerosol generating material during use. The diameter of the chamber 50 within the heating zone 53 is generally selected to approximately match the diameter of the consumable portion 4, so that the outer surface of the consumable portion 4 and the interior of the heating zone 53 of the chamber 50 It ensures contact between significant portions of the surfaces, allowing efficient transfer of heat from one or more heating elements included in the aerosol generator 48 to the consumable part 4.

In embodiments where the aerosol generator 48 includes a heater, the tube containing the heating zone 53 of the chamber 50 includes a material that transfers heat from the heater 48 to the consumable portion 4; A metal or metal alloy, such as one or more materials generally selected from the group consisting of aluminum, gold, iron, nickel, cobalt, conductive carbon, graphite, steel, plain carbon steel, mild steel, ferritic stainless steel, molybdenum, copper, and bronze. Includes. In other embodiments, the section of tubing that makes up the heating zone 53 of the chamber 50 may be made of a different material, as long as it is thermally conductive. Other heating elements 48 may be used in other embodiments. For example, the heating element 48 heats via induction when exposed to a magnetic field generated by one or more magnetic field generators, such as drive coils (not shown) disposed within the reusable portion 2. It may include a susceptor (e.g., a portion of the tube containing the chamber 50).

Typically, where the aerosol generator 48 includes one or more heating elements, the aerosol generator 48 is dimensioned with respect to the distribution of aerosol generating material within the consumable portion 4, such that the consumable portion 4 is reusable. When inserted into device portion 2, substantially all of the aerosol-generating material within the consumable portion may be heated during use (e.g., when consumable portion 4 is fully received within chamber 50, chamber ( The longitudinal extent of the heating zone 53 running down the axis of the 50) may correspond to the longitudinal extent of the distribution of the aerosol-generating material 43 within the consumable part 4). In some embodiments, one or more heating elements included in aerosol generator 48 may cause selected zones of aerosol generating material within consumable portion 4 (e.g., a chamber comprising heating zone 53) 50) can be arranged so that they can be heated independently as desired, for example sequentially (in time) or together (simultaneously) by distributing independently controllable heating elements along their length.

As further mentioned herein, in some embodiments, aerosol generator 48 includes a heating zone 53 of chamber 50, is embedded in heating zone 53, or is located in heating zone 53. It is in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube that surrounds. The chamber formed by the inner portion of the tube containing the heating zone 53 typically has a reusable device portion 2 through the non-heating zone 52 of the chamber 50 (which may also be referred to as the expansion zone/chamber). ) is in fluid communication with the hole 51 at the end of the mouthpiece. In these embodiments, the non-heating zone 52 has a first open end adjacent or including the hole 51 and a second open end adjacent the heating chamber section 53 of the chamber 50. It includes a tubular body having a. In this way, the non-heating zone 52 and the heating zone 53 can be considered tubular portions of the chamber 50 arranged end-to-end. Generally, the diameters of the expansion zone 52 and the heating zone 53 are matched at the interface between them such that the non-mouthpiece end of the consumable portion 4 passes through the non-heating zone 52 and the heating zone ( 53) Ensure smooth passage through the interior. The non-heating/expansion region 52 and the heating region 53 of the tube containing chamber 50 may be formed separately and connected through mechanical joining processes, or may be formed as one piece. In some embodiments, the non-heated zone 52 has a flared section (not shown) that widens as it opens onto the hole 51 and a substantially constant internal diameter proximate the interface with the heated zone 53. Includes sections.

In some embodiments, the consumable portion 4 is a section of the consumable portion 4 that is within the heating zone 53 of the chamber 50 when the consumable portion 4 is fully inserted into the reusable device portion 2. is in the form of a cylindrical rod having or comprising an aerosol generating material (43) at its end distal to the mouthpiece (41). To provide a specific example, in one embodiment, consumable portion 4 has a diameter of approximately 8 mm and a length of approximately 84 mm. The depth of the chamber 50 of the reusable device portion is such that the mouthpiece end 41 of the consumable portion 4 typically extends from the hole (e.g., when the consumable portion 4 is fully inserted into the chamber 50). The length of the consumable part 4 is sized to extend (by 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm or more than 30 mm). Accordingly, the mouthpiece end of the consumable portion 4 typically extends from the reusable device portion 2 and out of the hole 51 . The consumable part 4 may comprise a filter/cooling element 44 for filtering/cooling the aerosol, arranged between the mouthpiece 41 and the area of the aerosol generating material 43 . The consumable portion 4 is typically oriented circumferentially with a wrapper/outer layer (not shown) which may comprise paper material, and/or metal foil, and/or polymer films such as Natureflex (TM). wrapped up The outer layer of the consumable portion 4 may be permeable so that some components heated and volatilized from the aerosol generating material 43 can escape from the consumable portion 2 before reaching the mouthpiece 41 . In some embodiments, the wrapper is heated by induction via one or more magnetic field generators/drive coils (not shown) within the reusable device portion 2 to heat the aerosol generating material 43 via induction heating. It may include a metallic material in the vicinity of the aerosol-generating material 43, configured to act as a heated susceptor. For example, in these embodiments, aerosol generator 48 may include one or more magnetic field generators/drive coils configured to induce inductive heating of the metal wrapper of consumable portion 4, and/or aerosol within consumable portion 4. One or more susceptor elements embedded within the generating material 43 may be included to induce heating of the aerosol generating material 43 within the consumable portion 4 . The configuration of the consumable portion 4 described above is exemplary and one skilled in the art will recognize that the overall structure of the consumable portion can be modified according to approaches known in the art.

In some embodiments, aerosol generator 48 includes at least one heating element configured to transfer heat into consumable portion 4 (according to approaches for heating further presented herein), and and at least one magnetic field generator/drive coil configured to inductively heat at least one susceptor element included in the consumable part 4 (according to the approaches further presented in ). In these embodiments, the aerosol-generating material 43 may include a plurality of aerosol-generating materials, at least the first aerosol-generating material being heated by heat transferred from the aerosol generator 48 into the consumable portion 4. wherein at least the second aerosol generating material is heated by one or more susceptors included in or on the consumable (4).

If the aerosol generator 48 is configured to heat the consumable portion 4, a portion of the aerosol generator 48, and/or the heating zone 53 of the chamber 50, or the consumable portion 4, or the reusable The temperature of any part of device portion 2 may be detected by controller 22 using one or more temperature sensors. For example, the heating element included in the aerosol generator 48 may include a material with a temperature coefficient of resistance property such that its resistance varies with temperature. The controller 22 determines the resistance of the heating element through known approaches and uses this result for experimentation or modeling linking heating element resistance and temperature to estimate the temperature of the aerosol generator 48 based on the measured resistance. It can be compared with the look-up table derived through . Alternatively or additionally, one or more temperature sensing elements, such as thermistors, may be positioned proximate heating zone 53 (e.g., comprising heating zone 53 of chamber 50). The thermistors are connected to a controller 22 to enable the controller to monitor the temperature of the consumable section 4 and/or the heating zone 53. The temperature of the air in the air inlet channel 25 may also be monitored in a similar manner by one or more temperature sensors (eg a combined temperature and pressure sensor or thermistor).

Typically, the main flow path for the heated volatilized components produced by heating of the aerosol generating material 43 by the heater 48 is axially through the consumable portion 4 and through the filter/cooling element: 44 (if included)) and into the user's mouth through the open end of mouthpiece 41. However, some of the volatilized components may escape from the consumable portion 4 through its permeable outer wrapper and into the space surrounding the consumable portion 4 in the non-heated chamber region 52 (e.g., non-heated/expanded). into the space formed by an optional gap (not shown) between the inner surface of the chamber 50 and the outer surface of the consumable 4 at the flared portion of the chamber region 53.

As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material” 43 typically includes materials that provide volatilized components upon heating, typically in the form of a vapor or aerosol. “Aerosol-generating materials” may be materials that do not contain tobacco or materials that contain tobacco. “Aerosol-generating material” may include, for example, one or more of tobacco itself, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco extract, homogenized tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of shredded tobacco, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, recycled aerosol-generating material, liquid, gel, amorphous solid, gel sheet, powder, or aggregates. “Aerosol-generating materials” may also include products other than tobacco and, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. “Aerosol-generating materials” may include one or more humectants such as glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, or diethylene glycol.

As mentioned above, aerosol generating material 43 may comprise an “amorphous solid,” which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e., non-fibrous), or a “dry gel.” . Amorphous solids are solid materials that can retain some fluid, such as a liquid, within them. In some cases, the aerosol-generating material comprises from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% of an amorphous solid to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of an amorphous solid. In some cases, the aerosol-generating material may consist of an amorphous solid.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is a non-liquid aerosol-generating material, and the reusable device portion is for heating the non-liquid aerosol-generating material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-generating material.

When all or substantially all of the volatile component(s) of the aerosol-generating material of the consumable portion (4) are exhausted, the user may remove the consumable portion (4) from the reusable device portion (1) and discard the consumable portion (4). can do. Thereafter, the user can reuse the reusable device part (2) together with other consumable parts (4). However, in other individual embodiments, the consumable part 4 and the reusable device part 2 may be discarded together after the volatile component(s) of the aerosol-generating material have been consumed. The consumable portion 4 may be comprised of a quantity of aerosol-generating material 43 that is configured to be heated and depleted over a single heating cycle (e.g., activation duration of 210 seconds), or over a plurality of heating cycles. It may consist of an amount of aerosol generating material 43 configured to be exhausted. In the latter case, the consumable part 4 can be considered a reusable consumable part 4.

In some embodiments, the consumable portion 4 may be sold, supplied, or otherwise provided separately from the reusable device portion 2 for which the consumable portion 4 may be used. However, in some embodiments, one or more of the reusable device portion 2 and the consumable portions 4 may be provided together as a system such as a kit or assembly, possibly with additional components such as cleaning tools. Can be provided with elements.

As described further herein, controller 22 may indicate to the user via one or more feedback mechanisms/indicators included in reusable device 1. This information may be referred to as 'feedback' or 'usage information' and may include a visual feedback indicator 28 (described further herein), a display unit 16, an audio feedback mechanism (e.g., a speaker), or may be displayed to the user using one or more of a haptic feedback mechanism (e.g., an eccentric rotating mass actuator).

In accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol delivery system is described for generating an aerosol for user inhalation, wherein the aerosol delivery system includes a controller 22 and an indicator (e.g., display 16, visual feedback). an indicator (28), or an audio or tactile feedback device), configured to cause the controller to determine, after the end of a use session, whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature; and in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature. By controlling the indicator, the control unit is configured to cause changes in the operation of the indicator. In some examples, the control unit may cause an indicator to activate (e.g., turn on/illuminate an indication) in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature. In some examples, the control unit may cause the indicator to deactivate (e.g., turn off/stop displaying) in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature. In some examples, the control unit causes the indicator to change or adjust the indication emitted by the indicator (e.g., change the mode of presentation) in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature. can do. The device portion 2 with the controller 22 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be uncomfortable when close to the skin and/or may cause marks or other damage to belongings susceptible to damage by heating. , which is advantageous, considering that users may view an increase in the surface temperature of the device as undesirable.

By “use session” is meant a period of time (i.e. a use session) during which a user uses or may use the aerosol delivery device 1. In some examples, a usage session may be a continuous period of time from the beginning of the usage session to the end of the usage session. In some examples, a use session is a period of time during which the controller 22 controls the aerosol delivery system 1 to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user from the consumable 4 (in some examples, the warm-up phase also includes may be considered part of a usage session). In some examples, a usage session is a cumulative period of time that a user draws on the device (e.g., as measured by air flow sensor 30). In some examples, a usage session is a moving window (i.e., a period of time) over which cumulative usage of device 1 is monitored (e.g., cumulative usage within a 1-minute moving window is monitored).

“Predefined” means that the controller 22 sets the associated values or parameters (e.g., predefined means to obtain or determine levels or thresholds). In some examples, controller 22 is provided with relevant values or parameters during manufacturing (e.g., as part of a software installation) or during a software update. Accordingly, the controller 22 can obtain the relevant values from a memory that stores the relevant values, etc. In some examples, controller 22 may perform a startup process or initialization process before, at the beginning, or during a usage session, or at the end of a usage session (e.g., taking into account ambient conditions such as ambient temperature). (e.g., calculate or estimate) relevant values or parameters. In either case, the values are predetermined or preselected before comparing the temperature of the aerosol delivery system to relevant values (eg, levels or thresholds).

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to identify the start of a usage session (e.g., start time of the usage session, when the usage session has started or is considered to have started). For example, the start of a use session may be the time a command is first received by controller 22 indicating the user's intention to use the device, or the time the aerosol generator is first activated after a period of non-use. In some examples, a user interacts with a user interface, such as button 14, to indicate a desire to use aerosol delivery device 1, and controller 22 identifies the start of a use session based on the user interaction. do. In some examples, the user inhales (i.e., takes a puff) on the device, the air flow sensor 30 indicates to the controller 22 that the user has begun puffing, and the controller 22 determines the air flow sensor ( Identify the start of a usage session based on the indication from 30 (e.g., identify the start of a usage session as the time when the signal from the air flow sensor 30 crosses a predefined threshold). In some examples, the user inserts a new consumable part 4 into the reusable device part 2 and the controller 22 identifies the start of a usage session based on determining that a new consumable part 4 has been inserted.

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to identify the end of a usage session (e.g., the time the aerosol generator stops producing aerosols and/or the time the aerosol generator 48 ceases to be powered). . By identifying the end of the use session, the indication provided by the indicator can be provided at a more accurate time corresponding to the time from the end of the use session (eg, the end of the cooling-off period following the end of the use session). In some examples, controller 22 may initiate a cool-down timer after identifying the end of the usage session. In some examples, the cool-down timer is a predefined period of time based on the length of the use session and/or the amount of usage (e.g., a determined or estimated amount of aerosol generated by an aerosol delivery system). do. In some examples, after identifying the end of a usage session, controller 22 begins analyzing sensor readings (e.g., one or more temperature sensor readings as further described herein) to determine system ( 1) It can be determined whether the temperature decreases below a predefined critical temperature. In some examples, the predefined cooling-off period after the end of the use session is greater than a duration selected from the group including 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 120 seconds, and 180 seconds. In some examples, the predefined cooling period is shorter than a duration selected from the group including 180 seconds, 120 seconds, 60 seconds, 30 seconds, and 20 seconds.

For example, controller 22 may be configured to identify the start of a usage session and measure time (i.e., by counting) from the start of the identified usage session. The predefined duration may be referred to as the session length and, in some examples, may correspond to the amount of time the user is expected or permitted to generate an aerosol using the device. In some examples, the duration is 30 seconds to 360 seconds, preferably 1 minute to 4 minutes, more preferably 2 minutes to 3 minutes. The appropriate length of the use session will depend on the consumables 4 (e.g., the type, amount, and distribution of the aerosol generating material) and the process for generating aerosols from the consumables (e.g., the type of aerosol generator 48 and the aerosol generator ( It will be appreciated that settings used to control the aerosol generator 48, such as the level of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48, may vary. Advantageously, in these examples, the method is simplified in that the controller 22 only needs to establish one parameter (the time corresponding to the start of the session) before counting (thus freeing up the processing resources of the controller 22). used less). The time period counted is where the device is heated (i.e., to aerosolize the aerosol-generating material) and then cooled to the required temperature within the counted time period (i.e., the total time period including the heating and cooling phases). It is chosen to be long enough to be possible. As will be appreciated, depending on the expected session length, a specific time period may be selected for counting from the start of the usage session. For example, if the controller has one or more predefined session heating methods for individual usage sessions, an appropriate total time period may be preselected or predefined for each of the predefined heating methods.

In some examples, the predefined duration or period (session length) is based on average usage session length. Controller 22 may compare the time since the start of the current usage session to the average usage session length accessible by controller 22. In some examples, the average usage session length is stored in memory of controller 22. In some examples, the average usage session length is a predefined value provided at the time of manufacture of the aerosol delivery system 1 or provided through a software update and may correspond to the expected average usage length for the consumable as determined through experimentation or modeling. there is. This average usage session length may be called the global usage session length, in that similar devices manufactured at the same time will have the same predefined value. In some examples, controller 22 is configured to calculate or otherwise establish an average usage session length based on previous uses of device 1 by the user (such average usage session is unique to the device and therefore local ( local) may be called a using session). In some cases, controller 22 may override a predefined value (e.g., a global value) of average usage session length after a set number of uses of device 1 (i.e., after a learning period). This will be understood.

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to identify termination of a usage session as occurring after a predefined duration from the start of the usage session. In some examples, controller 22 is configured to identify the end of a usage session based on user input to aerosol delivery system 1 (e.g., user interaction with the aerosol delivery system). In some examples, controller 22 may be configured to identify that a usage session has ended based on the last activation of the aerosol delivery system by the user, the last activation corresponding to a user interaction or input to the aerosol delivery system 1 there is. In some examples, the last activation is determined based on the user interacting with the device's user interface (e.g., button 14) and/or interacting with air flow sensor 30. In some examples, controller 22 is configured to assume that any detected activation is the last activation (i.e., an activation performed to indicate the end of a usage session). Accordingly, if the device 1 is reactivated before the trigger condition is met (e.g., the device temperature decreases below a level or threshold and/or the cool-down time period expires), the controller ( 22) will consider the new activation as the last activation. Controller 22 may continue to monitor for new activations until a trigger condition is met (e.g., the device temperature decreases below a certain level or threshold and/or a cool-down time period expires). .

In some examples, the controller is configured to establish the end of the use session based on the user indicating the end of the use session by interacting with the aerosol delivery system 1. In some examples, user interaction with the user interface (e.g., button 14) is taken by controller 22 to indicate that the usage session has ended. For example, a user can interact with the user interface to put the device into sleep, inactive, or off mode. In some examples, a user interacts with the aerosol delivery system 1 by removing or separating the consumable portion 4 from the reusable device portion 2, and the controller 22 causes the consumable portion 2 to be moved to the reusable device portion 2. It is configured to identify the point of separation from part (2). In some examples, a user interacts with the aerosol delivery system 1 by closing a door or the like configured to cover a hole 51 through which the consumable portion 2 is at least partially inserted into the reusable device portion 2.

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to identify the end of a usage session based on the last activation of aerosol generator 48 of the aerosol delivery system. In some examples, activation of aerosol generator 48 is controlled by controller 22 according to a predefined heating profile, such that a predefined period of time (e.g., elapsed after the start of the predefined heating profile) is controlled by the controller 22. time) so that the last activation occurs. In some examples, aerosol generator 48 is activated in response to a user interacting with the device's user interface (e.g., button 14) and/or interacting with air flow sensor 30; The last activation of the aerosol generator 48 substantially corresponds to the last activation of the user interface and/or air flow sensor 30.

In some examples, the controller 22 is configured to monitor or estimate the amount of aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating material 43 of the consumable portion 4, thereby identifying the end of a usage session based on the estimated usage. In some examples, controller 22 is configured to calculate or estimate the amount of aerosol generated based on one or more of heater power, air flow rate, consumable type, and session time. In some examples, controller 22 is configured to implement blocking after a certain usage amount (e.g., a certain amount of aerosol determined or assumed to have originated from aerosol generating material 43); Cutting off here involves the controller 22 cutting off the supply of power to the aerosol generator 48 and/or preventing the supply of further power.

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to identify or determine termination of a usage session based on a combination of the above approaches for identifying termination of a usage session. In some examples, controller 22 determines the end of a usage session when a number of criteria are satisfied (e.g., expected usage is met, last activation of the aerosol generator is met). In some examples, controller 22 determines that termination of a usage session has occurred when one or more criteria from a set comprising a plurality of criteria are satisfied (example criteria include allowing the user to indicate that the session is ending). interacting with the device, and/or having predefined thresholds met for expected usage and/or total time since start of session). Based on the examples above, it will be appreciated that there are a large number of potential combinations of criteria that can be used to identify the end of a usage session.

2 schematically illustrates a method of controlling aspects of an electronic aerosol delivery system/device 1 for generating an aerosol in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

In a first step 220 of Figure 2, the controller 22 is configured to determine whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature (e.g., after a use session has ended). In some examples, the temperature of the aerosol delivery system 1 or reusable device portion 2 is determined at a predefined location within the aerosol delivery system 1 or reusable device portion 2 (e.g., within the device). Includes the temperature at the location of the temperature sensor. In some examples, the predefined location in/on the aerosol delivery device/system 1 includes a location on the external housing of the reusable device portion 2 of the aerosol delivery system 1. In some examples, the temperature of the aerosol-providing device 1 includes the average temperature of the aerosol-providing device 1 or device portion 2. In some examples, the temperature of the device at one or more locations (e.g., each adjacent one or more sensors) is used to infer the temperature at a separate location (e.g., a surface of the device).

In some examples, the controller is configured to determine/estimate that the temperature of the system is below a predefined threshold temperature after a predefined period of time (e.g., a period of time) from the start of the identified use session. The predefined period expires or terminates after the end of the use session, such that when the predefined period ends, the device 1 is either cooling down after use (e.g. after a heating period/cycle operated during the use session) or Or it will be assumed to have cooled. The predefined period can be referred to as the total period because it includes both a period during which the device is in use or may be used (eg, a use session) and a cool-down period. That is, the controller 22 determines that the temperature of the reusable device portion 2 is assumed to be below a predefined threshold temperature based on the period of time that has elapsed since the start of the use session. In some examples, controller 22 is configured to estimate that the temperature of the system is below a predefined threshold temperature after a predefined total period of time from the start of the identified use session, wherein the first predefined total period of time is the end of the use session. It ends later. In some examples, the first predefined total period of time is a period selected from the group including a period of at least 1 minute, a period of at least 2 minutes, and a period of at least 5 minutes. It will be appreciated that the predefined total period may be selected based on a predetermined aerosolization profile that defines the duration and magnitude of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48 (and thus the amount of energy supplied to the aerosol generator). will be. The total period is the length of time over which the predefined aerosolization profile is activated, and also the cooling period selected for that predetermined aerosolization profile, taking into account the amount of energy that may have been dissipated to surrounding components during the predetermined aerosolization profile. Includes.

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to determine that the temperature of the system is estimated to be below a predefined threshold temperature after a predefined period of time from the end of the identified use session. The predefined period may be referred to as a cooling period or duration as it includes a period of time during which the device is considered to cool down from its operating temperature to a lower temperature after use (e.g., after a session/puff). In some examples, the cooling period is a period selected from the group including a period of at least 15 seconds, a period of at least 30 seconds, a period of at least 60 seconds, and a period of at least 180 seconds. It will be appreciated that the device may continue to cool after the cool down period has ended, and therefore the cool down period is an estimate of the amount of time required for the device to cool from its operating temperature to a lower/less temperature. A lower temperature may be a “safe” or “comfortable” temperature, e.g., from user experiments, where the aerosol delivery system (1) (or one or more of the reusable device portions (2) and consumables (4)) can safely and/or a temperature determined to be suitably low for comfortable handling or storage.

In some examples, the cool-down period determined by controller 22 depends on the duration of the use session, where longer durations of the use session result in longer cool-down periods. In some examples, the cool-off period is determined by controller 22 identifying the length of the session and calculating or determining a cool-down period appropriate for the identified session length so that the controller 22 identifies that the session has ended. Accordingly, the cooling-off period is predetermined when the session ends. In these examples, if the user uses the device for a shorter period of time than the average or expected time, the aerosol delivery system 1 will be able to Much cooling will not be required to reach or fall below the temperature, and in such instances the cooling period duration may be reduced. Conversely, if the user has used the device for a longer period of time than average or expected, a greater amount of heat will be dissipated into the device components, and in these instances, the cool-down period duration may be increased.

As described in more detail with respect to FIG. 3 , in some examples, controller 22 may determine, after a use session ends, the temperature of aerosol delivery system 1 from a temperature sensor, or and configured to determine that the temperature is estimated to be below a predefined threshold based on at least one signal of one or more temperature sensors included in . In some examples, controller 22 receives a measurement or signal indicating a temperature below a predefined threshold temperature. In some examples, controller 22 receives a measurement indicating a temperature above a predefined threshold temperature, and the controller determines a temperature that is different from the sensor location based on the relationship between the sensor location and the different location (e.g., a surface location). Based on this measurement, it is calculated, extrapolated, or otherwise established that the temperature of the device at the location is below a predefined threshold temperature. For example, the controller 22 may subtract an absolute value (e.g., 5° C.) or a relative value (e.g., from the sensor temperature) to the ambient temperature measured prior to the use session by a factor such as 0.2. It can be configured to calculate the temperature of different locations by multiplying the value by subtracting the value.

In some examples, the value of the predefined critical temperature is a value selected from the group including temperatures below 45°C, below 40°C, and below 35°C. In some examples, the predefined threshold temperature is a level or value at which the device is considered comfortable for the user and/or at which the risk of damage to any materials in contact with the aerosol delivery system 1 is reduced. am. In some examples, the predefined threshold temperature corresponds to the temperature of the sensor at which a surface area of the device (separate from the temperature sensor) is considered comfortable for the user and/or the risk of damage is reduced. For example, a relationship between temperature measurements of one or more sensors inside the device and the temperature of the external surface of the device may be established through testing or simulation, where a critical temperature is defined as the temperature below which the temperature of the sensor will fall below the critical temperature. When the temperature of the surface area is set to a value that is assumed to be less than 45°C, less than 40°C, or less than 35°C. For example, after use of the device, when the temperature of the sensor falls below 70°C, it can be identified from the relationship that the temperature of the external surface of the device is below 35°C, so in this specific example, the threshold temperature is set to 70°C to reduce the temperature of the device. An indication may be provided if the temperature of the outer surface of the is assumed to be a temperature of 35° C. (e.g., a “safe” and/or “comfortable” temperature). Therefore, the value of the predefined critical temperature need not be the “safe” temperature itself (i.e., the temperature considered safe/comfortable to touch), but instead involves prior testing and/or simulations related to the expected temperature of the external surface of the device. It can be selected based on

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to implement a number of control schemes for determining that the temperature of the system is estimated to be below a predefined/predetermined threshold temperature after a usage session has ended. Using multiple control approaches provides redundancy in case any one of the approaches described above fails or malfunctions to determine when the temperature of the system is assumed to be below a predefined threshold temperature. In some examples, controller 22 estimates, after termination of a use session, that the temperature of the system is below a predefined threshold temperature based on at least one signal received from one or more temperature sensors of aerosol delivery system 1. is configured to determine that; The controller is also configured to determine that the temperature of the system is estimated to be below a predefined threshold temperature after a predefined period of time has elapsed from the end of the identified use session. In some of the examples described herein, a predefined period of time is a period in which the temperature (e.g., the temperature of one or more zones/components of the aerosol delivery system 1) increases by the required amount (as further described herein). (to a “safe” and/or “comfortable” temperature as appropriate), and thus the controller 22 determines that the temperature of the system is It can be set to have an expected duration to identify what is assumed to be below a predefined threshold temperature based on at least one signal received. Accordingly, in these examples, a timer using a predefined duration serves as a backup for determining that the temperature has dropped to a certain level based on the sensor.

In second step 230 of Figure 2, controller 22, in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature. It is configured to control the indicator. In some examples, the indicator is configured to provide at least one indication selected from the group including a visual indication, a haptic indication, and an audio indication. That is, if the controller 22 determines or estimates that the temperature has fallen below a predefined threshold temperature, the controller may cause the indicator to operate in a different manner to indicate to the user that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature. Or make it work.

In some examples, the indicator emits (e.g., activates) an indication to indicate to the user that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature. For example, controller 22 controls the indicator so that the indicator indicates that the system is “cooled” or “safe” if controller 22 determines or estimates that the system has cooled below a predefined threshold temperature. .

In some examples, the indicator ceases or ceases (e.g., deactivates) emitting an indication to inform the user that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature. For example, controller 22 may first control an indicator to indicate that the system is "hot" and then, when controller 22 determines or estimates that the system has cooled below a predefined threshold temperature, the system may indicate that the system is "hot." The controller controls the indicator (e.g., turns off the switch) to stop indicating “hot.”

In some examples, the indicator emits a first indication when the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is determined or estimated to be above a predefined threshold temperature and the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is determined or estimated to be below the predefined threshold temperature. When a different second indication is emitted, it indicates to the user that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature. For example, controller 22 may first control an indicator to indicate that the system is "hot" and then, if controller 22 determines or estimates that the system has cooled below a predefined threshold temperature, controller 22 may controls the indicator to indicate that the system is “cooled” or “safe.”

Indications may include visual, audio, and/or haptic or tactile indications. For example, visual feedback mechanism 28 or display 16 (or a different display provided by device portion 2) may be used to provide indications to the user. In some examples, this indication may indicate a separate device (e.g., a smart device) in wired or wireless communication with controller 22 (e.g., via a Bluetooth link provided by wireless transceiver circuitry included in controller 22). provided to the user via phone. The user may observe a change in indication (e.g., from on to off, from off to on, or from a first mode to a second mode) to determine whether the temperature of the device (or one or more regions of the device) is “safe.” “As the temperature decreases, we can identify that the device is safe to place (e.g. in a bag, pocket or case). In some instances where the controller 22 causes the indicator to indicate that the system is “cooled” or “safe,” the controller 22 may cause the device to be turned off manually and/or during a period of inactivity (e.g., a timeout period). ) will continue to indicate that the system is “Cold” or “Safe” until the system expires. 3 is a cross-sectional view through an exemplary device portion 2 according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In contrast to the exemplary aerosol delivery system 1 of Figure 1, the replaceable/disposable consumables 4 of Figure 1 are omitted for simplicity. The features in FIG. 3 which are given the same reference numbers as in FIG. 1 operate as described above according to FIG. 1 and will not be described again.

According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the device portion 2 of FIG. 3 further includes a temperature sensor 61 for detecting the temperature of the device (or at least a portion of the device). differs from the device portion of Figure 1 in that it is electrically connected to the controller 22. Electrical connections allow temperature sensor 61 to communicate with controller 22. For example, electrical connections allow temperature sensor 61 to provide signals corresponding to temperature measurements to controller 22. In other examples, temperature sensor 61 is instead configured to communicate wirelessly with controller 22.

In some examples, signals communicated from temperature sensor 61 to controller 22 correspond to a measurement of temperature by temperature sensor 61. For example, sensor 61 may be configured to calculate or otherwise determine temperature for communication to controller 22. Accordingly, in some examples, signals communicated from temperature sensor 61 to controller 22 include a parameter indicative of temperature. For example, electrical characteristics such as voltage or resistance associated with temperature sensor 61 may be indicative of the temperature of or obtained by temperature sensor 61 . In some of these examples, controller 22 is configured to calculate or otherwise determine the temperature based on a parameter representing the temperature. For example, controller 22 may provide a measurement of temperature from temperature sensor 61 or a measurement indicative of temperature (e.g., if temperature sensor 61 includes a material with a non-zero temperature coefficient of resistance, Measurements of dependent voltage or resistance) can be obtained.

In some of these examples, temperature sensor 61 includes a thermistor. By thermistor, we mean that the resistance of the thermistor changes with temperature, and the temperature can be established based on the change in resistance (for example, based on measurement of electrical characteristics that change with resistance). In some of these examples, temperature sensor 61 is a component that allows controller 22 to obtain temperature readings by passing a current through temperature sensor 61 without requiring any processing power in the sensor itself. am. In some examples, the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is the expected temperature of the reusable device portion 2 or a predefined location within or on the external housing of the aerosol delivery system 1.

In some examples, controller 22 measures the temperature of the device via temperature sensor 61 to determine whether the temperature of the device (obtained by the temperature sensor) is below a predefined threshold temperature, or otherwise. It is configured to establish. In some examples, the temperature of the device refers to the temperature of the entire device (e.g., the average temperature of the reusable device portion 2, the consumable portion 4, or the entire aerosol delivery system 1), a temperature sensor ( 61) the temperature of a portion of the aerosol delivery system 1 in the vicinity (e.g. adjacent to the sensor, located proximate to the sensor), or the temperature measured by one or more temperature sensors 61 the temperature of a portion of the aerosol delivery system 1 remote from the temperature sensor 61, which can be inferred from (e.g., a measurement of the temperature inside the device can be used to infer that the surface of the device is below a certain temperature) means.

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to control an aspect of operation of device portion 2 operation based on the temperature of temperature sensor(s) 61 . In some examples, controller 22 is configured to distribute or discontinue the distribution of electrical power from power source 26 to aerosol generator 48 in response to a temperature measurement. In some examples, controller 22 may be configured (e.g., by display 16, a visual feedback mechanism 28 of device portion 2, an audio or haptic feedback mechanism, or a mobile computing device that communicates with controller 22). configured to display or otherwise communicate the temperature to a user (via a separate device, such as a device).

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to indicate, based on sensor readings from the sensor, when the temperature of the system is estimated to have fallen below a predefined threshold temperature after a usage session has ended. In some examples, indications to the user include visual, audio, and/or tactile indications. For example, visual feedback mechanism 28, or a different display provided by device portion 2 may be used to provide indications to the user.

In some examples, the temperature sensor 61 is provided substantially in an area separating the aerosol generator 48 from the housing of the device portion 2. In some examples, temperature sensor 61 is located closer to the outer surface of device portion 2 than aerosol generator 48. As a result, the temperature of the temperature sensor 61, or the temperature recorded by the temperature sensor 61, is more representative of the temperature of the external surface of the device, and the temperature of the aerosol generator 48 and receiving recess/chamber 50. indicates less.

In some examples, the first temperature sensor 61 is provided adjacent to the outer housing of the reusable device portion 2 (eg, adjacent to the inner surface of the wall providing the outer housing). In some examples, the temperature of the aerosol delivery system 1 is the expected temperature of the external housing (e.g., the average temperature of the entire housing, or the local temperature of a region of the housing). In some examples, the predefined critical temperature is a temperature selected from the group including temperatures below 45°C, below 40°C, and below 35°C.

In some examples, when the aerosol generator 48 is positioned asymmetrically within the device portion 2, the temperature sensor 61 may detect the heating zone of the aerosol generator 48 (and/or the receiving recess/chamber 50 ( 53) and the housing of the device part 2. In the case of this asymmetric arrangement, the housing closest to the aerosol generator 48 is cooler than the housing further away from the heater, due to heat dissipation from the heater. Accordingly, placing the first temperature sensor 61 at this location measures or otherwise establishes the temperature of the expected “hottest” outer surface area of the device portion 2. can be used to

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to receive measurements from temperature sensor 61 and estimate (e.g., receive, calculate, or infer) the temperature of the device based on the received measurements. In some examples, the determined temperature is the temperature of temperature sensor 61. In some other examples, the temperature of the device is the temperature of the external surface of the device. For example, the controller 22 may establish a temperature measured at a temperature sensor 61 positioned at a first location in or on the aerosol delivery system 1 and configure the temperature at the first location and a corresponding temperature of the external surface (i.e., the second location on the aerosol delivery system 1) based on a predetermined relationship between the temperatures of the second location (said relationship established, for example, through experimentation or modeling) It may be configured to infer the temperature of the external surface by calculating.

In some examples, the reusable device portion 2 and/or the consumable portion 4 may be provided in addition to or as an alternative to the temperature sensor 61 for use in estimating the temperature of the device. Alternatively, it will be appreciated that alternative temperature sensors may be included. In some examples, controller 22 may use temperature measurements from two or more temperature sensors to determine whether the temperature of reusable device portion 2 (or multiple device portions) is below a predefined threshold temperature. and configured to provide an indication to a user based on measurements from two or more temperature sensors.

In some examples, air flow sensor 30 is a combined pressure and temperature sensor and provides an alternative temperature sensor to temperature sensor 61, or an additional temperature sensor in conjunction with temperature sensor 61. In these examples, controller 22 is configured to receive signals from air flow sensor 30 indicative of temperature.

In some examples, controller 22 is configured to obtain an indication of temperature from aerosol generator 48. In these examples, aerosol generator 48 may provide an alternative temperature sensor to temperature sensor 61 , or an additional temperature sensor in conjunction with temperature sensor 61 . In some examples, the temperature of aerosol delivery system 1 is the expected temperature of aerosol generator 48. In some examples, controller 22 determines the temperature of aerosol generator 48 based on the resistance of aerosol generator 48 or a portion of aerosol generator 48 and/or one or more components associated with aerosol generator 48. (e.g., aerosol generator 48 may include an integrated temperature sensor). The controller 22 may measure the temperature by supplying power to the aerosol generator 48 or otherwise obtain signals indicative of the temperature to determine the temperature of the aerosol generator 48 and/or included in the aerosol generator 48. Alternatively, the temperature of a heater containing an aerosol generator may be determined.

In examples where the aerosol generator 48 is used to estimate the temperature of the aerosol delivery system 1, temperature measurements of the aerosol generator 48 and the device (e.g., reusable device portion 2 and/or consumables) The relationship between the temperature of the outer surface of the part 4) can be established through testing, wherein when it is determined that the temperature of the aerosol generator 48 is at or below the critical temperature, the temperature of the outer surface is less than 45° C. The threshold temperature can be set to be assumed to be a temperature of, less than 40°C, or less than 35°C. For example, the heating element may have an operating temperature of 150° C. to 300° C. (e.g., the temperature at which the aerosol is generated). In some examples, the relationship may identify that, after use of the device, the temperature of the external surface of the device is less than 35 degrees Celsius when the temperature of the heating element falls below a temperature of 80 degrees Celsius to 120 degrees Celsius. In some specific examples, the threshold temperature ranges from 80°C to provide an indication to the user when the temperature of the external surface of the device is estimated to be below 35°C (e.g., an exemplary “safe” or “comfortable” temperature). It can be set to a value of 120°C. Therefore, the temperature of the predefined critical temperature need not itself be a “safe” temperature (i.e., users are expected to or are not permitted to directly handle the heater), but rather the heater temperature and The selection may be based on prior testing and/or simulations used to derive a relationship between the expected temperature of the external surface of the device.

In some examples, reusable device portion 2 includes a battery temperature sensor that can be used as an alternative temperature sensor to temperature sensor 61 or as an additional temperature sensor in conjunction with temperature sensor 61 . For example, the battery temperature sensor may be a sensor integrated with the battery 26. In these examples, controller 22 is configured to receive signals indicative of the temperature of the battery from a battery temperature sensor.

4 schematically illustrates a method of controlling aspects of an electronic aerosol providing device for generating an aerosol in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In examples according to FIG. 4 , controller 22 provides a first indication to the user when the temperature of the device is established below a predefined threshold temperature and the temperature of the device is established below a second or further predefined threshold temperature. is configured to provide a second indication to the user when established. The method of Figure 4 firstly alerts the user to a "Caution" condition requiring caution due to the presence of residual heat in the device, and secondly provides a "safe" or "comfort" condition where the device is considered to have cooled to at least a certain predefined temperature. "It can be used advantageously to inform the user of status.

In a first step 225 of Figure 4, the controller 22 determines whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a (first) predefined threshold temperature after the use session has ended. The first step 225 of FIG. 4 differs from the first step 220 of FIG. 2 in that the predefined threshold temperature may be considered the first predefined threshold temperature.

In the second step 235 of FIG. 4 , the controller 22, in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system 1 is below the first predefined threshold temperature, determines that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system 1 is below the first predefined threshold temperature. and configured to control an indicator (e.g., display 16 or visual feedback indicator 28, and/or audio or haptic feedback indicator) to indicate that the temperature is below the specified threshold temperature. The second step 235 of FIG. 4 is substantially similar to the second step 230 of FIG. 2 .

In the third step 240 of Figure 4, the controller 22 determines whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a further predefined threshold temperature after the use session has ended. The third stage 240 of Figure 4 differs from the first stage 220 of Figure 2 in that the predefined threshold temperature is an additional or second predefined threshold temperature, wherein the second predefined threshold temperature is The threshold temperature is a temperature below the first predefined threshold temperature according to step 225.

In some examples, the second predefined threshold temperature is an absolute value lower than the first predefined threshold temperature. For example, the second predefined critical temperature may be at least 15°C lower than the first predefined critical temperature, and the second predefined critical temperature may be at least 10°C lower than the first predefined critical temperature. value, or the second predefined threshold temperature can be a value that is at least 5° C. lower than the first predefined threshold temperature. For example, the first predefined critical temperature may be a value of 40 to 45°C and the second predefined critical temperature may be a value of 30 to 35°C. In some examples, the second predefined threshold temperature is a relative value compared to the first predefined threshold temperature. For example, the second predefined critical temperature may be a value less than 30% of the first predefined critical temperature, and the second predefined critical temperature may be a value less than 20% of the first predefined critical temperature. and the second predefined critical temperature may be a value less than 10% of the first predefined critical temperature.

In a fourth step 250 of FIG. 4 , controller 22, in response to determining that the temperature of aerosol delivery system 1 is below a further predefined threshold temperature, determines that the temperature of aerosol delivery system 1 is below a further predefined threshold temperature. and configured to control the indicator to indicate that the temperature is below the threshold. Except that the second step 250 occurs in response to the temperature falling below a second or further predefined threshold temperature, or being presumed to have fallen below a second or further predefined threshold temperature. The fourth step 250 of FIG. 4 is substantially similar to the second step 230 of FIG. 2 .

In some examples, the controller controls the indicator to emit an indication indicating to the user that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a first predefined threshold temperature, and then the indicator is configured to cause the indicator to emit an indication indicating to the user that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a first predefined threshold temperature. indicating to the user that the aerosol delivery system is below a first predefined threshold temperature, or alternatively, if the controller determines or estimates that the aerosol delivery system is below a further predefined threshold temperature, indicating to the user that the aerosol delivery system is below a first predefined threshold temperature. Control the indicator to stop the operation. For example, controller 22 may control the indicator to cause the system to display “cooled” or “safe” if controller 22 determines or estimates that the system has cooled below a first predefined threshold temperature; If the controller 22 determines or estimates that the system has cooled below a further predefined threshold temperature, the controller controls the indicator to stop indicating that the system is “cooled” or “safe” (e.g. For example, switch off). In some examples, the controller may also cause an indicator to indicate to the user that the system is “hot” if the controller determines or estimates that the aerosol delivery system is above a predefined threshold temperature.

In some examples, the indication to the user includes visual, audio, and/or tactile/haptic indication. For example, visual feedback mechanism 28, or a different display provided by device portion 2 may be used to provide indications to the user. In some examples, the indication is provided to the user via a separate device (eg, a smartphone) that communicates with controller 22. Upon observing the second indication, the user identifies that the device is safe to enter because the device has been further reduced to or below a second predefined "safe" temperature.

In some examples, the second indication is a repetition of the first indication (eg, may be provided to the user in the same manner as the first indication). In some examples, the second indication is different from the first indication (eg, may be a deactivation of the indicator or a different operating mode of the indicator). In some examples, a first activation of an indicator may include one of audio, visual, and haptic presentation, and a second activation may include two of audio, visual, and haptic presentation, or alternatively of audio, visual, and haptic presentation. It can contain one. The second indication is selected to convey to the user that a lower temperature is assumed to have been reached.

Figure 4 illustrates a process in which the controller 22 is configured to provide two indications for when the temperature of the aerosol delivery system 1 has established itself below two different predefined threshold temperatures; It will be appreciated that in other examples, there may be more than two predefined threshold temperatures. For example, in these examples, there may be more than 3, more than 5, or more than 10 predefined threshold temperatures that each trigger a respective indication. In some examples, the indications are different for each of the predefined threshold temperatures, providing the user with a sequence of indications as the aerosol delivery system 1 (or reusable device portion 2 or consumable portion 4) cools: sequence) may be presented. In some of these examples, if it is determined or estimated that the temperature has fallen below a minimum temperature threshold, the controller may cause the indicator to be stopped or deactivated.

Accordingly, an aerosol delivery system has been described for generating an aerosol for user inhalation, wherein the aerosol delivery system includes a controller and an indicator, wherein the controller determines that, after the end of a use session, the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is adjusted to a predefined threshold temperature. to determine whether it is less than; and in response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.

The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These examples are provided only as a representative sample of examples and are not complete and/or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are not limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or equivalents to the claims. should not be regarded as limitations, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the present invention suitably include, consist of, or appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. , or it may consist essentially of these as essential elements. Additionally, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims (28)

An aerosol delivery system for generating an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator, comprising:
The aerosol delivery system includes a controller and an indicator,
The controller is
After termination of a use session, determine whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature; and
In response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.
composed,
Aerosol delivery system. According to claim 1,
wherein the controller is configured to determine that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature by determining that a predefined cooling period has elapsed since the end of the use session.
Aerosol delivery system. According to clause 2,
wherein the predefined cooling period is greater than a duration selected from the group consisting of 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 120 seconds, and 180 seconds.
Aerosol delivery system. According to claim 2 or 3,
wherein the predefined cooling period is less than a duration selected from the group consisting of 180 seconds, 120 seconds, 60 seconds, 30 seconds, and 20 seconds.
Aerosol delivery system. According to any one of claims 2 to 4,
The predefined cooling period depends on the length of the use session, wherein the longer the use session the longer the length of the predefined cooling period.
Aerosol delivery system. According to any one of claims 1 to 5,
the aerosol delivery system includes a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature at a sensing location of the aerosol delivery system;
wherein the controller is configured to, after termination of the usage session, use measurements from the temperature sensor to determine whether the temperature of the system is below the predefined threshold temperature.
Aerosol delivery system. According to clause 6,
the aerosol delivery system comprising an external surface and an aerosol generator, the sensing location being closer to the external surface of the aerosol delivery system than the aerosol generator of the aerosol delivery system,
Aerosol delivery system. According to clause 6,
The aerosol generating system includes an aerosol generator, and the sensing location is in the aerosol generator,
Aerosol delivery system. According to any one of claims 6 to 8,
wherein the temperature sensor forms part of a combined pressure and temperature sensor for detecting user inhalation.
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
wherein the controller is configured to identify that the use session has ended and, after identifying that the use session has ended, determine whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.
Aerosol delivery system. According to claim 10,
wherein the controller is configured to identify that the usage session has started and to identify that the usage session has ended by determining that a predefined period of time for the usage session has elapsed since the start of the usage session.
Aerosol delivery system. The method of claim 10 or 11,
wherein the controller is configured to identify that the usage session has ended based on user input,
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12,
wherein the aerosol delivery system includes an aerosol generator, and the controller is configured to identify the end of the usage session by determining the last activation time of the aerosol generator.
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
The controller identifies that the use session has started and determines that both a predefined time period and a predefined cooling down period for the use session have elapsed since the start of the use session, thereby configured to determine that the temperature is below the predefined threshold temperature,
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14,
wherein the indicator is configured to provide at least one indication selected from the group comprising a visual indication, a haptic indication, and an audio indication,
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
The aerosol delivery system further comprises a consumable containing an aerosol generating material,
Aerosol delivery system. According to claim 16,
The aerosol-generating material includes solid aerosol-generating material,
Aerosol delivery system. The method of claim 15 or 16,
The aerosol-generating material includes a liquid aerosol-generating material,
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
wherein the aerosol delivery system includes an external housing, and the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is an expected temperature of the external housing,
Aerosol delivery system. According to clause 19,
wherein the predefined critical temperature is selected from the group consisting of temperatures below 45°C, temperatures below 40°C, and temperatures below 35°C.
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
wherein the aerosol delivery system includes an aerosol generator, and the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is an expected temperature of the aerosol generator,
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
wherein the aerosol delivery system includes an external housing, and the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is the expected temperature of a predefined location within the external housing.
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 22,
The controller additionally,
After termination of the use session, determine whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a further predefined threshold temperature; and
In response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the further predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the further predefined threshold temperature.
composed,
wherein the additional predefined critical temperature is a temperature lower than the predefined critical temperature,
Aerosol delivery system. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 23,
wherein the aerosol delivery system includes an aerosol generator, the aerosol generator configured to generate heat during operation of the aerosol generator to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material,
Aerosol delivery system. A controller for use with an aerosol delivery system for generating an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 24. An aerosol delivery device for an aerosol delivery system for generating an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator, comprising:
The aerosol delivery device includes a controller and an indicator,
The controller is,
After termination of a use session, determine whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature; and
In response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.
composed,
Aerosol delivery device. 1. A method of controlling an aerosol delivery system for generating an aerosol for user inhalation from an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generator, comprising:
The above method is,
After termination of a use session, determining whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below a predefined threshold temperature; and
In response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature, controlling an indicator to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.
How to control an aerosol delivery system. Aerosol providing means for generating an aerosol for inhalation by a user from the aerosol generating means using the aerosol generating means,
said aerosol providing means comprising control means and indicator means,
The control means is,
After termination of a use session, determine whether the temperature of the aerosol delivery means is below a predefined threshold temperature; and
In response to determining that the temperature of the aerosol delivery means is below the predefined threshold temperature, control the indicator means to indicate that the temperature of the aerosol delivery system is below the predefined threshold temperature.
composed,
Aerosol delivery vehicle.