CN114730268A

CN114730268A - Aerosol generating device and associated computing device, method of enabling such aerosol generating device and method of remotely controlling such aerosol generating device

Info

Publication number: CN114730268A
Application number: CN202080081927.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: S.赫达切特; C.佐米尼
Original assignee: JT International SA
Current assignee: JT International SA
Priority date: 2019-11-26
Filing date: 2020-11-25
Publication date: 2022-07-08
Also published as: EP4066107A1; WO2021105185A1; JP2023502446A

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating device (2) comprising a memory (40), a microcontroller (44) and a communication module (42). The memory (40) is configured to store execution parameters that are changeable between an on state and an off state. The communication module (42) is configured to establish a connection with an external computing device (52). The microcontroller (44) is configured to perform a selectable function of the aerosol-generating device (2) when the execution parameter is in the on state. The aerosol-generating device (2) further comprises a modification unit (46) configured to modify the state of the execution parameter upon receipt of an option set command by the communication module (42) from the external computing device (52).

Description

Aerosol generating device and associated computing device, method of enabling such aerosol generating device and method of remotely controlling such aerosol generating device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device capable of providing at least one optional function.

The invention also relates to an associated computing device, a method of enabling such an aerosol generating device and a method of remotely controlling such an aerosol generating device.

Background

Different types of aerosol generating systems are known in the art. Typically, such systems comprise a storage portion for storing aerosol-forming precursors, which may comprise, for example, a liquid. The heating system is formed by one or more electrically activated resistive heating elements arranged to heat the precursor to produce an aerosol. The aerosol is released into a flow path extending between an inlet and an outlet of the system. The outlet may be arranged as a mouthpiece through which a user inhales for delivering the aerosol.

Some aerosol-generating systems may further provide additional functionality. These additional functions may, for example, provide data to the user regarding inhalation, such as, for example, the amount of one or more aerosol components delivered to the user, the frequency of inhalation by the user, the start and/or end of inhalation, the duration of inhalation, and the like.

To communicate this data relating to inhalation, some aerosol-generating systems may be connected to an external computing device, such as a smartphone or computer. The connection may be done in a wired manner using, for example, a USB connector, or may be done in a wireless manner using, for example, known wireless communication protocols. The external computing device may thus be configured to display the data to the user and/or store the data to generate statistical data related to the user's inhalation.

The external computing device may also be connected to a remote server through, for example, a global network such as the internet. This makes it possible, for example, to store the data of a user remotely or to share it with other users.

However, while aerosol generating systems and associated external computing devices have provided many features, further improvements are possible.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present invention to improve at least some of the features of aerosol generating systems and associated external computing devices by using the communication capabilities of these systems. In fact, it has been observed that according to the prior art, these communication capabilities are not fully exploited.

To this end, the invention relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a memory, a microcontroller and a communication module. The memory is configured to store an execution parameter that is changeable between an on state and an off state. The performance parameter is associated with a selectable function of the aerosol generating device. The communication module is configured to establish a connection with an external computing device. The microcontroller is configured to execute software resources implementing selectable functions of the aerosol generating device when the execution parameter is in an on state. The aerosol generating device further comprises a modification unit configured to modify the state of the execution parameter upon receipt of an option setting command from the external computing device by the communication module.

The aerosol-generating device may activate or deactivate optional functions of the aerosol-generating device, which are not necessary for the normal operation of the device, by implementing these features. In fact, it has been found that most users prefer to manage optional functions according to their own needs, thereby customizing the use of their devices. For example, an external computing device (such as a smartphone) may be used to easily activate or deactivate optional functions. This is performed using execution parameters that may be modified by the computing device and determine whether the corresponding optional feature is to be executed.

According to some embodiments, the option setting command is generated by the external computing device after a triggering event, preferably the triggering event is a user purchasing an optional function.

Using this feature, the trigger event may be transmitted to the external computing device, for example, through a remote server. Thus, the user may activate or deactivate the selectable features through the remote server via an appropriate network interface or application. Advantageously, the optional feature may be purchased prior to the remote server. This may reduce the cost of an aerosol generating device with basic functionality and provide the possibility for users who wish to have more functionality to buy them separately according to their own needs.

According to some embodiments, the memory is further configured to store software parameters that are changeable between an installed state and an uninstalled state;

the software parameter is in an installed state when the software resource is available for execution by the microcontroller and in an uninstalled state when the software resource is not available for execution by the microcontroller.

By implementing this feature, the aerosol generating device can verify whether software resources implementing optional functions have been installed for execution by the microcontroller.

According to some embodiments, the communication module is further configured to download the software resource from the external computing device upon receiving an option setting command when the software parameter is in an uninstalled state, and preferably when the aerosol generating device is not operating to heat the aerosol.

By implementing this feature, the aerosol-generating device may download the software resource from the external computing device if the software resource is not installed on the aerosol-generating device.

According to some embodiments, the memory is an electrically erasable programmable memory (EEPROM), preferably the execution parameter corresponds to at least one option bit of the memory.

By implementing this feature, the aerosol generating device may use a memory that is easily accessible to the microcontroller. The corresponding option bit may be "true" if the optional function is activated, and "false" otherwise.

According to some embodiments, the software parameter corresponds to at least one option bit of the memory.

By implementing this feature, the aerosol generating device may use a memory that is easily accessible to the microcontroller. The corresponding option bit may be "true" if the software resource has been installed, and "false" otherwise.

According to some embodiments, the modification unit is configured to modify the state of the execution parameter to an off state after the microcontroller executes the software resource a predetermined number of times.

By implementing this feature, the optional function may be provided a predetermined number of times. This may be determined by a trigger event, which may, for example, provide only a single execution of the optional function. This may also be determined by the device itself, e.g. based on the state of health of its battery, the service life, etc.

According to some embodiments, the selectable function is a fast charge option.

By implementing this feature, rapid charging can be implemented by the aerosol generating device as an optional function. It has been found that the quick charge option is not necessary, at least for some users. Therefore, having this feature as an essential feature of all aerosol generating devices would unnecessarily increase the cost of the device. Instead, users who wish to have this feature can purchase them separately at any time.

According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating device further comprises at least one battery cell and a voltage regulator capable of charging the battery cell by an external current, preferably the voltage regulator is a low drop-out regulator;

the microcontroller can drive the voltage regulator to deliver power with a particular voltage value and/or density value by an external current to charge the battery cell.

By implementing this feature, the aerosol generating device may drive or control the charging of its battery cells.

According to some embodiments, the software resource is configured, when executed by the microcontroller, to drive the voltage regulator to implement an optional function, preferably the optional function is a fast charge option.

By implementing this feature, the aerosol generating device can implement a fast charging option by driving the voltage regulator.

According to some embodiments, the software resource is configured to, when executed by the microcontroller: the voltage value and the density value of the battery cell are measured, an amplitude distribution in a frequency domain is obtained from the measured values, and the voltage value and the density value to be delivered from the voltage regulator are determined using the amplitude distribution.

By implementing this feature, the aerosol-generating device may implement the fast charge option using software instructions that the microcontroller is capable of executing.

According to some embodiments, the microcontroller is a Digital Signal Processor (DSP).

By implementing this feature, the microcontroller is able to execute the software instructions needed to implement optional functions, such as a fast charge option.

The invention also relates to a computing device comprising a first communication module configured to establish a connection with a remote server, and a second communication module configured to establish a connection with an aerosol generating device.

The computing device further comprises a computing module configured to generate a request to the remote server for execution of a triggering event and, upon receiving a positive response from the remote server through the first communication module, generate an option setting command;

the second communication module is further configured to send an option setting command to the aerosol-generating device to activate a selectable function of the device.

By implementing these features, the computing device is able to activate or deactivate optional functions of the aerosol generating device as previously disclosed by establishing a connection with the device.

The invention also relates to a method of enabling an aerosol-generating device to perform a selectable function, the method comprising the steps of:

-establishing a connection with an external computing device;

-modifying the state of an execution parameter upon receiving an option setting command from an external computing device, the execution parameter being changeable between an on state and an off state;

-executing a software resource implementing a selectable function of the aerosol generating device when the execution parameter is in the on state.

The invention also relates to a method of remotely controlling an aerosol generating device, the method comprising the steps of:

-establishing a connection with a remote server;

-generating a request to the remote server for executing a triggering event;

-if a positive response to the request is received from the remote server:

+ generating an option setting command;

+ establishing a connection with the aerosol generating device;

+ send the option set command to the aerosol generating device to activate a selectable function of the device.

Drawings

The invention and its advantages will be better understood on reading the following description, which is given by way of non-limiting example only and made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the invention;

figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a computing device capable of establishing a connection with the aerosol generating device of figure 1, according to one embodiment of the invention;

figure 3 shows on its left side a flow chart of a method of enabling the aerosol-generating device of figure 1 to perform an optional function according to one embodiment of the invention; and at its right side

A flow diagram of a method of remotely controlling the aerosol generating device of figure 1, the method being performed by the computing device of figure 2, is shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Before the present invention is described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the details of construction or process steps set forth in the following description. It is apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that the invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" or "device" may include a smoking device to deliver an aerosol (including an aerosol for smoking) to a user by an aerosol-generating unit (e.g., a heater or atomizer that generates a vapor that condenses into an aerosol before delivery to an outlet (e.g., a mouthpiece) of the device for inhalation by the user). The device may be portable. "portable" may refer to a device for use while held by a user. The device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol, for example by activating the nebulizer for a variable amount of time (as opposed to a metered dose of aerosol), which may be controlled by a trigger. The trigger may be user activated, such as a puff button and/or a puff sensor. The inhalation sensor may be sensitive to the intensity of the inhalation as well as the duration of the inhalation so as to enable the provision of more or less vapour based on the intensity of the inhalation (thereby simulating the effect of smoking a conventional combustible smoking article such as a cigarette, cigar or pipe, etc.). The device may include temperature adjustment controls to drive the temperature of the heater and/or the temperature of the heated aerosol generating substance (aerosol precursor) to a specified target temperature and thereafter maintain the temperature at the target temperature regardless of how much of the amount of substance (precursor) is available at the aerosol generating unit and the intensity of the user inhalation.

As used herein, the term "aerosol" may include a suspension of precursors, one or more of: solid particles; a droplet; a gas. The suspension may be in a gas comprising air. Aerosol herein may generally refer to/include a vapor. The aerosol may comprise one or more components of the precursor.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming precursor" or "aerosol-forming substance" or "substance" may refer to one or more of the following: a liquid; a solid; gelling; mousse; and (c) other substances. The precursor may be processed by the atomizer of the device to form an aerosol as defined herein. The precursor may comprise one or more of the following: nicotine; caffeine or other active ingredients. The active ingredient may be carried by a carrier, which may be a liquid. The carrier may comprise propylene glycol or glycerol. Fragrances may also be present. The flavor may include ethyl vanillin (vanilla), menthol, isoamyl acetate (banana oil), or the like. The solid aerosol-forming substance may be in the form of a rod comprising processed tobacco material, i.e. a rolled sheet or oriented strand of Reconstituted Tobacco (RTB).

As used herein, the term "nebulizer" may refer to a device for forming an aerosol from a precursor. The atomizer may include a heating system, an ultrasonic system, or other suitable system.

As used herein, the term "optional function" may refer to a function of the aerosol generating device that may be activated or deactivated without affecting the primary mode of operation of the device, including the generation of aerosol from a precursor. Thus, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the e-smoking and directly associated functions (such as aerosol heating and directing the generated aerosol flow to the mouthpiece) are considered non-optional functions. For example, when a user purchases a device, the optional function is not activated by default. According to the present invention, the optional functions may be performed by software resources that may be part of the device firmware or may be separately downloaded and installed. According to the present invention, the optional functionality may customize the use of the device. For example, the optional function may relate to the taste and/or flavor of the aerosol, the aerosol temperature, the amount of aerosol, consumption statistics, and the like. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the selectable function relates to battery charging, in particular a quick charge option. At least some of the optional functions may relate to the same object (e.g. aerosol flavour or battery charging), but differ from each other in some parameters. For example, the fast charge option may be available as a full speed fast charge option and a half speed fast charge option. Advantageously, the user may activate the optional function via a remote server. Activation includes, among other things, purchasing an optional function for execution a limited or unlimited number of times. Advantageously, according to the invention, the optional function modifies the operation of at least one mechanical or electronic component of the device (except for the memory and/or the microcontroller and, preferably, except for the display and/or the sound output device). For example, the optional function may modify the operation of a voltage regulator, connector, communication module, pass unit, or heater, as explained in detail below. Advantageously, the optional function may directly or indirectly affect the generation of aerosol without user intervention by managing the operation of the mechanical or electronic components of the device.

As used herein, the term "computing device" or "external computing device" may refer to a device capable of establishing a data connection with an aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, the computing device is also capable of establishing a connection with a remote server over, for example, a global computer network such as the internet. By user instruction, the computing device can execute a trigger event before the remote server and, after the trigger event, generate an option setting command. The computing device is also capable of sending an option setting command to the aerosol generating device. The computing device includes a human interaction device (such as a touch screen or screen associated with the control device) to allow a user to communicate with a remote server and the aerosol generating device. Thus, the computing device may be a smartphone, laptop, personal computer, tablet, smart watch, or all other connected devices.

As used herein, the term "remote server" may refer to one or more computers capable of providing remote services (such as, for example, triggering events). A user may request remote services through a computing device as defined above, in particular to perform optional functions of the aerosol generating device. The owner of the remote server may be the supplier of the aerosol generating device or any other third party authorized to provide optional functionality for the aerosol generating device.

As used herein, the term "triggering event" may refer to any event performed by a remote server to remotely activate or deactivate a selectable function of an aerosol-generating device. The triggering event may refer to a user purchasing an optional function. The remote server generates the trigger event when the user pays an additional fee for the corresponding optional function. Depending on the optional function, the triggering event may also refer to free activation of the optional function. The trigger event may also be automatically generated by a remote server. For example, a supplier may automatically provide optional functionality for all aerosol generating devices after a predetermined development period. In this case, at the end of the time period, the server automatically generates a trigger event for each device. The trigger event may also be generated periodically (e.g., monthly), e.g., to temporarily lease or purchase an optional function for a corresponding period of time.

Referring to fig. 1, an aerosol-generating device 2 according to one embodiment of the invention includes a power supply 4 for supplying electrical energy, a nebulizer 6 for forming an aerosol from a precursor, circuitry 8 for regulating the electrical energy from the power supply 4, a delivery system 10 for delivering the precursor to the nebulizer 6, and a delivery system 12 for delivering the aerosol from the nebulizer 6 to a user.

The power supply 4 comprises a connector 21 for charging, at least one battery unit 23 and a voltage regulator 25 for charging the battery unit 23 through the connector 21.

The connector 21 has a receptacle capable of receiving and mating with an external plug. For example, the connector 21 has a USB type receptacle adapted to receive and mate with USB plugs of the type C, B, A, Micro-B, Mini-B, UC-E6 and the like. According to other embodiments of the invention, the connector 21 has a customized receptacle adapted to receive and mate with a customized plug. According to other embodiments of the present invention, the connector 21 has at least one pair of contacts capable of mating with an external charger. Each of these contacts has, for example, a plate or a pin.

The connector 21 is capable of receiving an external power signal adapted to charge the battery unit 23. The external power source may have a direct current or a pulsed current.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the connector 21 is also able to receive data signals through an external plug. In this case, the connector 21 is designed to separate the data signal from the power supply signal and to transmit the data signal to the circuitry 8.

In a particular embodiment of the invention (not shown), the connector 21 may be replaced by a wireless charging unit. In this case, the unit is able to generate a current for charging the battery unit 22 by interacting with an external magnetic field formed by a suitable charger.

The battery unit 23 is, for example, a known battery unit designed to be charged using a power supply provided by an external charger and to supply a direct current having a predetermined voltage. In particular, the battery unit 23 is designed to provide the necessary power supply for the operation of the device 2, in particular for the operation of the atomizer 6 and the circuitry 8.

The voltage regulator 25 is connected between the connector 21 and the battery unit 23. The voltage regulator 25 is a DC/DC regulator and is able to adapt the external current emitted from the connector 21 for charging the battery unit 23. In particular, the voltage regulator 25 is able to deliver a current with a specific voltage value and/or density value by means of an external current to charge the battery cell 23. These particular voltage values and/or density values are determined by circuitry 8. Thus, the voltage regulator 25 is configured to be driven by the circuitry 8 so as to deliver a current with a specified voltage value and/or density value at each instant. According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the voltage regulator 8 is a low dropout regulator, also referred to as LDO regulator.

The delivery system 10 comprises a storage portion 27 configured to store the precursor, and a delivery unit 28 configured to deliver the precursor from the storage portion 27 to the nebulizer 6. The storage portion 27 may be arranged as a reservoir (not shown) or other suitable arrangement depending on the physical state of the precursor. The transfer unit 28 may comprise one or more of the following: an absorbent member (e.g., cotton) arranged for transport by capillary action; a conduit; a valve; a pumping system, which may comprise an electrically operated pump.

In certain embodiments of the present invention (not shown), the precursor delivery system 10 may be omitted. In such embodiments, the precursor may be arranged as a consumable pod (e.g., as a liquid or gel), wherein the nebulizer comprises a heated receptacle for the pod. In another embodiment, where the transfer unit is omitted, the precursor is in the form of a rod comprising processed tobacco material, which precursor is received in a tubular heater to generate the aerosol.

The delivery system 6 comprises a flow path 29 for delivering the aerosol from the nebulizer 6 to the user.

The atomizer 6 comprises a heater 30 for heating the precursor, a precursor inlet 32 for delivering the precursor to the heater 30, and an aerosol outlet 34 for delivering an aerosol formed by the heater 30 from the precursor to the delivery system 8.

The heater 30 may be arranged as one or more resistive heating elements (not shown). The heating elements may be arranged as filaments or filaments. The heating element may be operatively connected to the precursor delivery unit 28 to heat the precursor of the delivery unit 28. One or more heating elements may be disposed within and/or in fluid communication with the precursor inlet 32.

The circuitry 8 is configured to regulate power from the power source 4 to the atomizer 6, and in particular to the heater 30. The power supplied to heater 30 may be controlled by circuitry 8 through one of the following or other similar circuitry: pulse Width Modulation (PWM) via electrically operated switches or by other suitable means, for example by chopping an alternating current waveform; direct Current (DC): DC converters, such as buck converters; a linear regulator.

Circuitry 8 is configured to implement some form of control over the temperature of heater 30, for example, by closed loop control. Depending on the embodiment, the controlling may comprise adjusting one of: an electrical potential; current flow; power; (ii) temperature; other relevant quantities that are to be maintained at the target value by (or on) the heater 30.

The circuitry 8 may include a trigger (not shown) to detect when aerosol formation is required. Upon determining activation of the trigger, circuitry 8 may enable power supply to heater 30. The trigger may detect when a user action suggests that an aerosol needs to be formed. Such a request may be implicit (such as via an inhalation), or explicit (such as via a button press). The trigger may include an actuator that is actuated by physical contact (e.g., a suction button), including by a finger of a user's hand. Examples include buttons or dials. The trigger may comprise an inhalation sensor operable to detect inhalation by a user through the flow path 29. The suction sensor may comprise a flow meter or pressure sensor operable to determine flow pressure, including by capacitive sensing of a pressure responsive displaceable diaphragm.

Further, according to the present invention, the circuitry 8 is configured to implement at least one optional function of the apparatus 2. The circuitry 8 is also configured to implement a method of enabling the aerosol-generating device 2 to perform an optional function, as explained in detail below.

For this purpose, the circuitry 8 comprises a memory 40, a communication module 42 and a microcontroller 44.

The memory 40 is a non-volatile memory capable of storing at least some parameters relating to the operation of the device. According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, the memory 40 is an electrically erasable programmable memory (EEPROM) that includes a plurality of option bits. Each option bit is associated with a particular option of device 2, which is activated when the value of the bit is true, and deactivated when the value of the bit is false.

According to the present invention, the memory 40 is capable of storing execution parameters that are changeable between an on state and an off state. As will be explained later, the execution parameter indicates whether an optional function of the apparatus is activated or deactivated. Advantageously, the memory 40 is able to store a plurality of execution parameters, each corresponding to a predetermined selectable function of the device 2.

According to some embodiments, the memory 40 can also store software parameters that are associated with a software resource and that indicate whether the software resource has been installed. Advantageously, according to the invention, the software resource is capable of implementing at least one optional function.

According to some embodiments, the memory 40 is capable of storing at least one software resource. The software resource may be in an installed state, meaning that the software resource may be executed directly by the microcontroller 44, or may be in an uninstalled state, meaning that the software resource needs to be installed by the microcontroller 44 and then executed.

The communication module 42 is capable of establishing a connection, particularly a data connection, with an external computing device. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the communication module 42 is capable of establishing a wireless connection with such an external computing device. In this case, the module 42 comprises an antenna for radio communication and is configured to establish a connection according to one of the known wireless communication protocols, such as Wi-Fi, bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRaWAN, NFC, etc. When a connection is established, the communication module 42 can receive data from an external computing device. According to other embodiments of the present invention, the communication module 42 is capable of establishing a wired connection with an external computing device. In this case, the communication module 42 may use the connector 21 of the power supply 4, or may define a separate connector adapted to receive the data signal. In both cases, the communication module 42 is able to send the received data to the microcontroller 44. As will be explained later, the received data includes, at least in some cases, an option setting command that activates or deactivates execution of the selectable function.

In some embodiments, the communication module 42 includes a protection device that is capable of performing authentication of an external computing device. Thus, the protection device is only able to authorize a connection, in particular to receive data, when the connection is established with an authorized computing device. An "authorized computing device" may be understood as a computing device having a device application that is authorized or produced by the vendor of the aerosol generating device.

The microcontroller 44 is configured to drive the operation of the aerosol generating device 2. Specifically, the microcontroller 44 can drive the power source 4 to supply power to the heater 30. Microcontroller 44 is also capable of executing software resources that implement optional functions of device 2 when the corresponding execution parameter is in the on state.

The software resources may include software instructions, each of which is to be executed by microcontroller 44. Depending on the optional function, the software instructions may include mathematical functions, such as arithmetic operators or more complex operations (such as, for example, fast fourier transforms). To execute such instructions, microcontroller 44 may be a Digital Signal Processor (DSP).

According to other software instructions, microcontroller 44 is capable of measuring voltage and density values of battery cells 23. These measuring capabilities are performed, for example, using measuring means (not shown) arranged between the voltage regulator 25 and the battery unit 23 or connected directly to the battery unit 23 instead of to the voltage regulator 25.

Microcontroller 44 can also drive voltage regulator 25. In particular, from the measurements of the voltage and density values of the battery cells 23, the microcontroller 44 is able to determine the voltage and density values delivered by the voltage regulator 25.

For example, when the software resource implements a fast charge option, microcontroller 44 can execute software instructions including:

measuring the voltage and density values of the battery cells 23;

-obtaining an amplitude distribution in the frequency domain from the measured values;

-determining voltage and density values to be delivered from a voltage regulator using the amplitude distribution.

Finally, according to the present method, the circuitry 8 further comprises a modification unit 46 configured to modify the state of the or each execution parameter upon receipt of the corresponding option setting command by the communication module 42. In the embodiment of fig. 1, the modification unit 46 is integrated into the microcontroller 44. In this case, microcontroller 44 includes appropriate software or firmware instructions that enable the state of the corresponding option bits in memory 40 to be modified. According to other embodiments, the modification unit 46 may be a stand-alone module or integrated into one of the modules of the circuitry 8 (e.g. the communication module 42).

Thus, thanks to the invention, the user can activate or deactivate optional functions of the device 2, which are not necessary for the normal operation of the device 2, and can therefore manage the optional functions according to his own needs. This enables a simpler use of the device 2 by deactivating all functions that the user does not intend to use. Parameterization of different optional functions also enables disabling of some optional functions according to, for example, different national legislation. Furthermore, the parameterization of the optional function enables the option to be activated according to the condition of the device 2.

Some known devices in the prior art are only able to lock the entire device 2 and therefore all functions of the device 2 for e.g. safety reasons, as opposed to managing the optional functions according to the present invention and not preventing the user from smoking the e-cigarette.

In some embodiments, the modification unit 46 is further capable of counting the number of times the or each optional function is executed, and when the number reaches a predetermined number, changing the state of the corresponding execution parameter to an off state. The predetermined number is transmitted by the communication module 42, for example.

Referring to FIG. 2, a computing device 52 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention will now be explained.

In particular, in view of fig. 2, the computing device 52 comprises a first communication module 61 for communicating with a remote server, a second communication module 62 for communicating with the aerosol-generating device 2, a human interaction device 64 for interacting with a user, a memory 66 for storing at least one application, and a computing module 68 for executing the at least one application stored in the memory 66. As described above, the computing device 52 may be a smartphone, personal computer, laptop, tablet, smart watch, or all other connected devices.

The first communication module 61 is capable of establishing a connection with a remote server via, for example, a global computer network 70, such as the internet. The connection is a wired connection using, for example, a WLAN protocol or a wireless connection using, for example, Wi-Fi or a mobile data protocol such as 3G, 4G, 5G, etc. According to some embodiments of the invention, the connection to the remote server is a secure connection configured to transmit user data, such as, for example, a user name, a password, credit card data, etc.

The second communication module 62 is capable of establishing a connection with the aerosol-generating device 2, in particular with the communication module 42 of the device. The second communication module 62 is for example similar to the communication module 42 of the aerosol-generating device 2. Thus, when using a wireless connection, the second communication module 42 can execute a wireless communication protocol, such as, for example, Wi-Fi, bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRaWAN, NFC, or the like. When a wired connection is used, the second communication module 42 can send data using, for example, the known USB protocol.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the first communication module 61 and the second communication module 62 form a unique communication module that is capable of communicating with a remote server and with the aerosol generating device using, for example, a wireless communication protocol such as Wi-Fi.

The human interaction device 64 allows a user to interact with the computing device 52 and with a remote server and/or the aerosol generating device 2 using a corresponding communication module. For this purpose, the human-computer interaction means 64 comprise a screen and input means. According to the embodiment of fig. 2, the screen and the input device are combined to form a touch screen. According to other embodiments, the screen is separate from the input devices, which may represent a keyboard and/or a trackball or a mouse.

The memory 66 is, for example, a flash memory capable of storing application programs necessary for performing the operation of the computing device 52. In particular, the memory 66 can store a device application that can communicate with the aerosol generating device 2 via the second communication module 62 and with a remote server via the first communication module 61 after the human interaction device 64 obtains the user interaction. In particular, the device application is capable of performing a method of remotely controlling the aerosol-generating device 2, as explained in detail below.

In some embodiments, the device application is further configured to communicate with the aerosol-generating device 2 to obtain data generated by the circuitry 8. This data may include, for example, data relating to the consumption of the user (amount of aerosol dispensed, number of puffs, duration of puffs, etc.) and service data relating to the operating state of the device 2. The service data may include, among other things, an identifier of the device 2, battery health status, service expiration, a list of activated or deactivated optional functions, etc. Once connected to the device, the device application may store data sent from the device 2 locally in the memory 66 and/or remotely by a remote server.

The calculation module 68 is, for example, a processor capable of performing the operations of the computing device 2. In particular, the computing module 68 is capable of executing applications, particularly device applications, stored in memory.

A method of enabling an aerosol generating device to perform an optional function (hereinafter referred to as enabling method 100), and a method of remotely controlling an aerosol generating device (hereinafter referred to as remote controlling method 200) will now be explained with reference to fig. 3. In particular, the flowchart of the enabling method 100 is shown on the left side of the fig. 3, and the flowchart of the remote control method 200 is shown on the right side thereof.

Initially, consider providing a user with an aerosol generating device 2 as described above and a computing device 52 as described above. It is also contemplated that the aerosol-generating device 2 has been connected to the computing device 52 at least once using a corresponding device application. The aerosol generating device 2 is therefore registered in the device application, which means that the application has access to at least some service data relating to the device 2, such as for example an identifier of the device, a service life or a battery state of health. The service data is stored locally or remotely. It is also contemplated that an optional function (e.g., a quick charge option) is not activated in the aerosol-generating device 2 and that the user wishes to activate the function. For this purpose, the user starts the device application and gives corresponding instructions via the human interaction device 64.

During an initial step 210 of the remote control method 200, the device application establishes a connection with a remote server, in particular using the first communication module 61. When a connection is established, the remote server may identify the aerosol-generating device 2, for example using an identifier sent by the device application. In some embodiments, if service data is not available in the remote server, the device application may send the data to the remote server.

The remote server may then communicate to the device application, for example, optional functions available to the aerosol generating device 2. These functions, as well as the status (activated or deactivated) of each function, are displayed to the user, for example, by the application on the touch screen 64. According to some embodiments, the optional function determined to be available by the remote server is determined using service data relating to the aerosol-generating device 2. For example, if the battery health status is not good, the fast charge option of device 2 may not be available.

When the user selects an optional function to be activated (e.g., a fast charge option), the application generates a request to the remote server to execute a triggering event so that the selected optional function can be activated during step 220. If the selected optional feature needs to be purchased, the request sent to the remote server may include payment data, such as credit card data for purchasing the option. The request may also include the number of executions of the optional function requested by the user. Thus, the user may request only a single execution of an optional function or an unlimited number of executions. The remote server receives the request and generates a response to the request. The response may be positive if the remote server accepts the request, and negative if the request is denied otherwise. If the response is affirmative, the response may also include an activation code generated by the remote server that is required to activate the optional function.

If the response is positive, then during step 230 the device application generates an option set command to modify the execution parameters of the aerosol generating device 2 corresponding to the optional function that needs to be activated. In some embodiments, the option setting command further includes a number of executions of the selectable function. As described above, the number of times may be sent by the remote server upon user request. In some other embodiments, the number is determined by the device application using, for example, service data sent from the aerosol-generating device 2. For example, in the case of a fast charge option, the application device may determine the number of executions that may be performed if the battery health status is not good.

During a next step 240, the device application establishes a connection with the aerosol-generating device 2, using, inter alia, the second communication module 62. Depending on the connection mode used, this connection may be performed by activating, for example, a wireless connection with the device 2 or by inserting a corresponding cable between the computing device 52 and the aerosol-generating system 2.

At the same time, the circuitry 8 of the aerosol-generating device 2 initiates the enabling method 100. Specifically, the communication module 42 of the circuitry 8 performs an initial step 110 to establish a connection with the computing device 52. According to one embodiment of the invention, when the connection is established, the circuitry disables the supply of power to the heater 30 if the device 2 was previously used to generate aerosol.

During a next step 245, the device application sends the generated option set command to the communication module 42 of the circuitry 8.

Upon receiving the option set command, the communication module 42 of the circuitry 8 sends the option set command to the modification unit 46, which modifies the state of the execution parameters corresponding to the selected optional function according to the command during step 120. In particular, if an optional function is to be activated, the modification unit 46 passes the execution parameters in the on state. If the optional function is to be deactivated, the modification unit 46 passes the execution parameters in the off state.

During a next step 130, microcontroller 44 or communication module 42 checks whether a software resource implementing an optional function has been installed. To this end, the microcontroller 44 or the communication module 42 checks the status of the software parameters in the memory 40 corresponding to the software resources. If the parameter is in the installed state, microcontroller 44 executes step 140.

If the software parameter is in an uninstalled state, the microcontroller 44 or communication module 42 continues its installation during step 150. If a software resource is available in the memory 40 of the electronic circuitry 8 in an uninstalled state, the microcontroller 44 or the communication module 42 may install the software resource directly. Otherwise, the microcontroller or communication module requests the download of the software resource from the computing device 52. In this case, the device application executes to send the software resource to the communication module 42 of the circuitry 8 during step 250 of the remote control method 200. According to one embodiment of the invention, the sending is performed only when the aerosol-generating device 2 is not operating to generate aerosol (i.e. when the heater 30 is deactivated).

If a software resource is available on the computing device 52, the device application sends the software resource directly to the circuitry 8. Otherwise, the device application may download the software resource from, for example, a remote server. Upon receiving the software resource from the computing device 52, the microcontroller 44 or the communication module 42 installs the resource, and the modification unit 46 modifies the state of the corresponding software parameter to the installed state. The following step 140 may be performed by microcontroller 44.

During step 140, the microcontroller 140 executes the software resource implementing the optional function if the corresponding execution parameter is in the on state. According to one embodiment of the present invention, step 140 is performed immediately after step 130 or step 150. According to another embodiment, step 140 is performed after the first predetermined event. The first predetermined event may be, for example: deactivating heater 30 and/or disconnecting from the computing device and/or manually activating an option by a user via, for example, a button and/or inserting connector 21 into an external current source and/or connecting to the computing device and/or activating the heater and/or detecting user suction, etc.

Where the selectable function is a quick charge option, the predetermined event may be, for example, plugging the connector 21 into an external current source and deactivating the heater 30. In this case, during step 140, according to the software instructions of the corresponding software resource, microcontroller 44 controls voltage regulator 25 (which in this case is, for example, an LDO regulator) to output power in the form of constant current and voltage pulses, thereby accelerating the charging of battery unit 23. Therefore, pulse charging can be performed on the battery cell 23.

For this purpose, the microcontroller 23 measures the voltage and density values of the battery cell 23.

The microcontroller then performs a frequency domain analysis based on the measured values to obtain an amplitude distribution in the domain. The analysis uses complex mathematical functions that may be performed on complex and/or floating point numbers, for example. According to a particular embodiment of the invention, microcontroller 44 performs a fast fourier transform on the measured values to obtain the amplitude distribution in the frequency domain.

Based on the amplitude profile, microcontroller 44 then determines the power in the form of constant current and voltage pulses to be delivered from the voltage regulator.

For this purpose, the microcontroller 44 executes, for example, a mathematical model capable of predicting the values of voltage and density delivered from the voltage regulator in order to charge the battery cells as quickly as possible. In other words, such a model predicts how much power can be fed to the battery from the amplitude distribution in order to charge the battery as fast as possible. According to another embodiment, a database may be used instead of a mathematical model. Such a database is for example associated with each specific amplitude distribution, specific voltage values and/or density values to be used for the voltage regulator to perform a fast charging.

The operation of the voltage regulator 25 is thus driven by the microcontroller 44, which makes it possible to control the battery charging process. This optional function modifies the operation of the voltage regulator 25. In addition, this optional function indirectly affects the aerosol generation because the battery provides the power required for the heater 30 to operate.

After completing step 140, if the number of execution times of step 140 reaches a predetermined number of times, the modification unit 46 may modify the state of the execution parameter to the off state. As described above, the predetermined number of times may be transmitted by the computing device 52. According to other embodiments, the number is determined by the circuitry 8 itself. For example, if microcontroller 44 determines that the battery health status is not good, the microcontroller may limit the number of times the fast charge option is executed.

Otherwise, step 140 may be repeated each time a second predetermined event occurs.

The second predetermined event may be the same as or different from the first predetermined event. In the latter case, the second predetermined event may also be selected as: deactivating the heater 30 and/or disconnecting from the computing device and/or being manually activated by a user, e.g. by a button, and/or inserting the connector 21 into an external current source and/or connecting to the computing device and/or activating the heater and/or detecting a user puff, etc.

In the case of the fast charge option, the second predetermined event is, for example, the same as the first predetermined event, which is to plug the connector 21 into the external current source and deactivate the heater 30. Thus, each time the device 2 is inserted into an external current and not operated to generate aerosol, a fast charge will be performed.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating device (2) comprising a memory (40), a microcontroller (44) and a communication module (42), characterized in that,

the memory (40) is configured to store an execution parameter that is variable between an on state and an off state, the execution parameter being associated with a selectable function of the aerosol-generating device (2);

the communication module (42) is configured to establish a connection with an external computing device (52);

the microcontroller (44) is configured to execute software resources implementing the associated selectable function of the aerosol-generating device (2) when the execution parameter is in the on state; and is

The aerosol-generating device (2) further comprises a modification unit (46) configured to modify the state of the execution parameter upon receipt of an option set command by the communication module (42) from the external computing device (52).

2. The aerosol generating device (2) according to claim 1, wherein the memory (40) is further configured to store software parameters that are changeable between an installed state and an uninstalled state;

the software parameter is in the installed state when the software resource is available for execution by the microcontroller (44) and the software parameter is in the uninstalled state when the software resource is not available for execution by the microcontroller (44).

3. The aerosol generating device (2) according to claim 2, wherein when the software parameter is in the uninstalled state, and preferably when the aerosol generating device (2) is not operating to generate an aerosol, the communication module (42) is further configured to download the software resource from the external computing device (52) upon receiving the option setting command.

4. The aerosol-generating device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the memory (40) is an electrically erasable programmable memory (EEPROM), preferably the execution parameter corresponds to at least one option bit of the memory.

5. The aerosol-generating device (2) according to claim 4 in combination with claim 2 or 3, wherein the software parameter corresponds to at least one option bit of the memory (40).

6. The aerosol-generating device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the modification unit (46) is configured to modify the state of the execution parameter to the off-state after the microcontroller (44) executes the software resource a predetermined number of times.

7. An aerosol-generating device (2) according to any preceding claim in which the selectable function is a fast charge option.

8. The aerosol-generating device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one battery unit (23) and a voltage regulator (25) capable of charging the battery unit (23) by an external current;

the microcontroller (44) is capable of driving the voltage regulator to deliver power with a particular voltage value and/or density value through the external current to charge the battery cell (23).

9. The aerosol generating device (2) of claim 8, wherein the software resource is configured to drive the voltage regulator (25) to implement the selectable function when executed by the microcontroller (44), preferably the selectable function is a fast charge option.

10. The aerosol generating device (2) of claim 9, wherein the software resource is configured to, when executed by the microcontroller (44):

-measuring the voltage and density values of the battery cell (23);

-determining voltage and density values to be delivered from the voltage regulator (25) using said amplitude distribution.

11. The aerosol generating device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the microcontroller (44) is a Digital Signal Processor (DSP).

12. A computing device (52) comprising:

-a first communication module (61) configured to establish a connection with a remote server;

-a second communication module (62) configured to establish a connection with an aerosol-generating device (2);

the computing device (52) is characterized in that the computing device further comprises a computing module (68) configured to generate a request to the remote server for executing a triggering event and to generate an option setting command upon receiving a positive response from the remote server through the first communication module (61);

the second communication module (62) is further configured to send the option setting command to the aerosol-generating device (2) to activate a selectable function of the device.

13. The computing device (52) of claim 12, wherein the option set command is generated after a triggering event, preferably the triggering event is a user purchasing the selectable functionality.

14. A method (100) of enabling an aerosol generating device (2) to perform a selectable function, the method comprising the steps of:

-establishing (110) a connection with an external computing device (52);

-upon receiving an option setting command from the external computing device (52), modifying (120) a state of an execution parameter, the execution parameter being changeable between an on state and an off state;

-executing (140) software resources implementing optional functions of the aerosol generating device (2) when the execution parameter is in the on state.

15. A method (200) of remotely controlling an aerosol-generating device (2), the method comprising the steps of:

-establishing (210) a connection with a remote server;

-generating (220) a request to the remote server for executing a triggering event;

-if a positive response to the request is received from the remote server:

+ generating (230) an option setting command;

+ establishing (240) a connection with the aerosol-generating device (2);

+ sending (245) the option setting command to the aerosol generating device (2) to activate a selectable function of the device.