WO2023069460A1

WO2023069460A1 - Draw detection for a vaporizer device

Info

Publication number: WO2023069460A1
Application number: PCT/US2022/047052
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander Weiss; Thomas Purvis MIZELL; Bryan HORD
Original assignee: Pax Labs, Inc.
Priority date: 2021-10-19
Filing date: 2022-10-18
Publication date: 2023-04-27

Abstract

Features relating to draw detection of a vaporizer cartridge are provided. The vaporizer cartridge includes a reservoir, a heater, a mouthpiece, a first air passageway configured to deliver air to the heater, a second air passageway separate from the first air passageway, and a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly includes a deflection membrane forming at least a portion of the second air passageway and a sensor configured to detect movement of the deflection membrane in response to air passing through the second air passageway. The movement of the deflection membrane indicates a pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway. Detection of a change in the pressure is configured to cause activation of the heater.

Description

DRAW DETECTION FOR A VAPORIZER DEVICE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/257,455, filed October 19, 2021, and entitled, “Draw Detection for a Vaporizer Device,” the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The current subject matter described herein relates generally to vaporizer devices, such as portable, personal vaporizer devices for generating and delivering an inhalable aerosol from one or more vaporizable materials, and more particularly relates to detecting use of the vaporizer device.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Vaporizing devices, including electronic vaporizers or e-vaporizer devices, allow the delivery of vapor and aerosol containing one or more active ingredients by inhalation of the vapor and aerosol. Electronic vaporizer devices are gaining increasing popularity both for prescriptive medical use, in delivering medicaments, and for consumption of nicotine, tobacco, other liquid-based substances, and other plant-based smokeable materials, such as cannabis, including solid (e.g., loose-leaf or flower) materials, solid/liquid (e.g., suspensions, liquid-coated) materials, wax extracts, and prefilled pods (cartridges, wrapped containers, etc.) of such materials. Electronic vaporizer devices in particular may be portable, self-contained, and convenient for use.

SUMMARY

[0004] Aspects of the current subject matter relate to draw detection of a vaporizer device.

[0005] In some aspects, a vaporizer cartridge for a vaporizer device includes a reservoir configured to hold a vaporizable material, a heater configured to heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material to generate an aerosol, a mouthpiece configured to deliver the aerosol to a user, a first air passageway configured to deliver air to the heater, a second air passageway separate from the first air passageway, and a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly includes a deflection membrane forming at least a portion of the second air passageway and a sensor coupled to the deflection membrane. The sensor is configured to detect movement of the deflection membrane in response to air passing through the second air passageway. The movement of the deflection membrane indicates a pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway. Detection of a change in the pressure is configured to cause activation of the heater.

[0006] In some aspects, the deflection membrane includes one or more of a ferrous material, a magnetic material, a metallic material, and a flexible material.

[0007] In some aspects, the deflection membrane includes a rubber material and an inductive material coupled to the rubber material.

[0008] In some aspects, the deflection membrane is configured to move in a direction that is axially aligned with the sensor.

[0009] In some aspects, the direction is perpendicular to an air flow path extending through the second air passageway.

[0010] In some aspects, the deflection membrane defines a flexible flap.

[0011] In some aspects, the movement of the deflection membrane is represented by one or more of axial movement, a change in magnetic flux, a change in magnetic field, and a change in inductance.

[0012] In some aspects, the sensor includes an inductive proximity sensor.

[0013] In some aspects, the sensor is configured to detect one or more of axial movement of the deflection membrane, a change in an inductance of the deflection membrane, a change in a magnetic flux of the deflection membrane, and a change in a magnetic field.

[0014] In some aspects, the sensor includes a magnetic material.

[0015] In some aspects, the sensor includes a magnet.

[0016] In some aspects, the movement of the deflection membrane is at least lum.

[0017] In some aspects, the vaporizer cartridge and/or a vaporizer body coupled to the vaporizer cartridge includes a controller configured to convert the detected movement of the deflection membrane to a pressure. The controller may include at least one data processor and at least one memory storing instructions which when executed by the at least one data process result in operations.

[0018] In some aspects, the controller is configured to determine a rate of change in the movement of the deflection membrane.

[0019] In some aspects, the controller is configured to determine, based on the detected movement of the deflection membrane over a period of time, an amount of the air passing through the second air passageway during the period of time. The period of time may represent a puff. The amount of air may correspond to an amount of the vaporizable material consumed during the puff.

[0020] In some aspects, the controller is configured to determine, based on the detected movement of the deflection membrane over a period of time, an amount of the air passing through the second air passageway during the period of time. The controller is configured to determine, based on the amount of air and a temperature of the heater, an amount of vapor produced during the period of time.

[0021] In some aspects, the controller is configured to: determine, based on data from the sensor, an inhale pressure indicative of a user inhale, monitor the inhale pressure during the user inhale, and cause, in response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting a threshold amount, activation of the heater.

[0022] In some aspects, the controller is configured to transmit a signal to the vaporizer device to activate the heater of the vaporizer cartridge when the pressure during the user inhale meets the threshold amount.

[0023] In some aspects, the controller is configured to cause, in response to detecting the pressure below the threshold amount, deactivation of the heater.

[0024] In some aspects, the controller is configured to access a pressure profile to determine, based on the detected movement of the deflection membrane, the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway.

[0025] In some aspects, the pressure profile is one or more of stored in memory of the vaporizer device, stored on a data tag of the vaporizer cartridge accessible by the controller through wireless communication circuitry, and stored on a user device associated with the vaporizer device.

[0026] In some aspects, the vaporizer cartridge includes a switch. The switch is configured to cause activation of the heater when the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway meets a threshold amount.

[0027] In some aspects, the vaporizer cartridge includes a transducer coupled to the deflection membrane.

[0028] In some aspects, the transducer is inductively coupled to the deflection membrane.

[0029] In some aspects, the transducer is configured to measure a baseline inductance. [0030] In some aspects, the transducer is further configured to measure a modified inductance. A change between the baseline inductance and the modified inductance is caused by the movement of the deflection membrane.

[0031] In some aspects, the change between the baseline inductance and the modified inductance is proportional to the movement of the deflection membrane.

[0032] In some aspects, the sensor assembly includes the transducer.

[0033] According to some aspects, a vaporizer device includes a reservoir configured to hold a vaporizable material, a heater configured to heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material to generate an aerosol, a mouthpiece configured to deliver the aerosol to a user, a first air passageway configured to deliver air to the heater, a second air passageway separate from the first air passageway, and a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly includes a deflection membrane forming at least a portion of the second air passageway and a sensor coupled to the deflection membrane. The sensor is configured to detect movement of the deflection membrane in response to air passing through the second air passageway. The movement of the deflection membrane indicates a pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway. Detection of a change in the pressure is configured to cause activation of the heater.

[0034] According to some aspects, a method includes receiving, by a controller and from a sensor of a vaporizer cartridge, data corresponding to movement of a deflection membrane coupled to the sensor. The deflection membrane forms at least a portion of an air passageway within the vaporizer cartridge. The method includes detecting, by the controller and based on the data from the sensor, an inhale pressure indicative of a user inhale. The method includes monitoring, by the controller, the pressure during the user inhale. The method includes causing, by the controller and in response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting a threshold amount, activation of a heater of the vaporizer cartridge.

[0035] In some aspects, the causing includes causing, by the controller and in response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting the threshold amount, adjustment of a setpoint temperature of the heater.

[0036] In some aspects, the vaporizer cartridge includes the controller.

[0037] In some aspects, the causing includes transmitting, to a vaporizer device controller of a vaporizer device coupled to the vaporizer cartridge, a control signal. The control signal causes the vaporizer device controller to supply a current to the heater to activate the heater. [0038] According to some aspects, a method includes receiving, by a controller and from a sensor of a vaporizer cartridge, baseline data corresponding to baseline movement of a deflection membrane coupled to the sensor. The deflection membrane forms at least a portion of an air passageway within the vaporizer cartridge. The method includes determining, by the controller and based on the baseline data from the sensor, a baseline pressure. The method includes receiving, by the controller and from the sensor, modified data corresponding to an updated movement of the deflection membrane. The method includes determining, by the controller and based on the modified data from the sensor, a modified pressure. The method includes causing, by the controller and in response to detecting a change between the modified pressure and the baseline pressure, activation of a heater of the vaporizer cartridge.

[0039] In some aspects, the causing further includes determining the change meets a threshold amount.

[0040] The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. The claims that follow this disclosure are intended to define the scope of the protected subject matter.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations. In the drawings,

[0042] FIG. 1 A - FIG. IF illustrate features of a vaporizer device including a vaporizer body and a cartridge consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

[0043] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating features of a vaporizer device having a cartridge and a vaporizer body consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

[0044] FIG. 3 illustrates communication between a vaporizer device, a user device, and a server consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

[0045] FIG. 4 schematically depicts an example vaporizer cartridge consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

[0046] FIG. 5 schematically depicts an example sensor assembly for a vaporizer cartridge consistent with implementations of the current subject matter; [0047] FIG. 6 schematically depicts an example sensor arrangement consistent with implementations of the current subject matter;

[0048] FIG. 7 illustrates an example chart showing features of a method for detecting use of a vaporizer device consistent with implementations of the current subject matter; and

[0049] FIG. 8 illustrates an example chart showing features of a method for detecting use of a vaporizer device consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0050] When practical, similar reference numbers denote similar structures, features, or elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Aspects of the current subject matter relate to draw detection during use of a vaporizer device.

[0052] Before providing additional details regarding aspects of draw detection of a vaporizer device, the following provides a description of some examples of vaporizer devices in which aspects of the current subject matter may be implemented. The following descriptions are meant to be exemplary, and aspects related to the responsive operation of a vaporizer device consistent with the current subject matter are not limited to the example vaporizer devices described herein.

[0053] Implementations of the current subject matter include devices relating to vaporizing of one or more materials for inhalation by a user. The term “vaporizer” may be used generically in the following description and may refer to a vaporizer device, such as an electronic vaporizer. Vaporizers consistent with the current subject matter may be referred to by various terms such as inhalable aerosol devices, aerosolizers, vaporization devices, electronic vaping devices, electronic vaporizers, vape pens, etc. Examples of vaporizers consistent with implementations of the current subject matter include electronic vaporizers, electronic cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or the like. In general, such vaporizers are often portable, hand-held devices that heat a vaporizable material to provide an inhalable dose of the material. The vaporizer may include a heater configured to heat a vaporizable material which results in the production of one or more gas-phase components of the vaporizable material. A vaporizable material may include liquid and/or oil-type plant materials, or a semi-solid like a wax, or plant material such as leaves or flowers, either raw or processed. The gas-phase components of the vaporizable material may condense after being vaporized such that an aerosol is formed in a flowing air stream that is deliverable for inhalation by a user. The vaporizers may, in some implementations of the current subject matter, be particularly adapted for use with an oil-based vaporizable material, such as cannabis-derived oils although other types of vaporizable materials may be used as well.

[0054] One or more features of the current subject matter, including one or more of a cartridge (also referred to as a vaporizer cartridge or pod) and a reusable vaporizer device body (also referred to as a vaporizer device base, a body, a vaporizer body, or a base), may be employed with a suitable vaporizable material (where suitable refers in this context to being usable with a device whose properties, settings, etc. are configured or configurable to be compatible for use with the vaporizable material). The vaporizable material may include one or more liquids, such as oils, extracts, aqueous or other solutions, etc., of one or more substances that may be desirably provided in the form of an inhalable aerosol. The cartridge may be inserted into the vaporizer body, and then the vaporizable material heated which results in the inhalable aerosol.

[0055] FIG. 1A - FIG. IF illustrates features of a vaporizer device 100 including a vaporizer body 110 and a cartridge 150 consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. FIG. 1A is a bottom perspective view, and FIG. IB is a top perspective view of the vaporizer device 100 with the cartridge 150 separated from a cartridge receptacle 114 on the vaporizer body 110. Both of the views in FIG. 1 A and FIG. IB are shown looking towards a mouthpiece 152 of the cartridge 150. FIG. 1C is a bottom perspective view, and FIG. ID is a top perspective view of the vaporizer device with the cartridge 150 separated from the cartridge receptacle 114 of the vaporizer body 110. FIG. 1C and FIG. ID are shown looking toward the distal end of the vaporizer body 110. FIG. IE is top perspective view, and FIG. IF is a bottom perspective view of the vaporizer device 100 with the cartridge 150 engaged for use with the vaporizer body 110.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 1 A - FIG. ID, the cartridge 150 includes, at the proximal end, a mouthpiece 152 that is attached over a cartridge body 156 that forms a reservoir or tank 158 that holds a vaporizable material. The cartridge body 156 may be transparent, translucent, opaque, or a combination thereof. The mouthpiece 152 may include one or more openings 154 (see FIG. 1A, FIG. IB, FIG. IF) at the proximal end out of which vapor may be inhaled, by drawing breath through the vaporizer device 100. The distal end of the cartridge body 156 may couple to and be secured to the vaporizer body 110 within the cartridge receptacle 114 of the vaporizer body 110. Power pin receptacles 160a,b (see FIG. 1C, FIG. ID) of the cartridge 150 mate with respective power pins or contacts 122a,b (see, for example, FIG. 2) of the vaporizer body 110 that extend into the cartridge receptacle 114. The cartridge 150 also includes air flow inlets 162a,b on the distal end of the cartridge body 156.

[0057] A tag 164, such as a data tag, a near-field communication (NFC) tag, or other type of wireless transceiver or communication tag, may be positioned on at least a portion of the distal end of the cartridge body 156. As shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. ID, the tag 164 may substantially surround the power pin receptacles 160a,b and the air flow inlets 162a,b, although other configurations of the tag 164 may be implemented as well. For example, the tag 164 may be positioned between the power pin receptacle 160a and the power pin receptacle 160b, or the tag 164 may be shaped as a circle, partial circle, oval, partial oval, or any polygonal shape encircling or partially encircling the power pin receptacles 160a,b and the air flow inlets 162a,b or a portion thereof.

[0058] In the example of FIG. 1A, the vaporizer body 110 has an outer shell or cover 112 that may be made of various types of materials, including for example aluminum (e.g., AL6063), stainless steel, glass, ceramic, titanium, plastic (e.g., Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Nylon, Polycarbonate (PC), Polyethersulfone (PESU), and the like), fiberglass, carbon fiber, and any hard, durable material. The proximal end of the vaporizer body 110 includes an opening forming the cartridge receptacle 114, and the distal end of the vaporizer body 110 includes a connection 118, such as, for example, a universal serial bus Type C (USB-C) connection and/or the like. The cartridge receptacle 114 portion of the vaporizer body 110 includes one or more openings (air inlets) 116a,b that extend through the outer shell 112 to allow airflow therein, as described in more detail below. The vaporizer body 110 as shown has an elongated, flattened tubular shape that is curvature-continuous, although the vaporizer body 110 is not limited to such a shape. The vaporizer body 110 may take the form of other shapes, such as, for example, a rectangular box, a cylinder, and the like.

[0059] The cartridge 150 may fit within the cartridge receptacle 114 by a friction fit, snap fit, and/or other types of secure connection. The cartridge 150 may have a rim, ridge, protrusion, and/or the like for engaging a complimentary portion of the vaporizer body 110. While fitted within the cartridge receptacle 114, the cartridge 150 may be held securely within but still allow for being easily withdrawn to remove the cartridge 150.

[0060] Although FIG. 1 A - FIG. IF illustrate a certain configuration of the vaporizer device 100, the vaporizer device 100 may take other configurations as well.

[0061] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating components of the vaporizer device 100 having the cartridge 150 and the vaporizer body 110 consistent with implementations of the current subj ect matter. Included in the vaporizer body 110 is a controller 128 that includes at least one processor and/or at least one memory configured to control and manage various operations among the components of the vaporizer device 100 described herein.

[0062] Heater control circuitry 130 of the vaporizer body 110 controls a heater 166 of the cartridge 150. The heater 166 may generate heat to provide vaporization of the vaporizable material. For example, the heater 166 may include a heating coil (e.g., a resistive heater) in thermal contact with a wick which absorbs the vaporizable material, as described in further detail below.

[0063] A battery 124 is included in the vaporizer body 110, and the controller 128 may control and/or communicate with a voltage monitor 131 which includes circuitry configured to monitor the battery voltage, a reset circuit 132 configured to reset (e.g., shut down the vaporizer device 100 and/or restart the vaporizer device 100 in a certain state), a battery charger 133, and a battery regulator 134 (which may regulate the battery output, regulate charging/discharging of the battery, and provide alerts to indicate when the battery charge is low, etc.).

[0064] The power pins 122a, b of the vaporizer body 110 engage the complementary power pin receptacles 160a,b of the cartridge 150 when the cartridge 150 is engaged with the vaporizer body 110. Alternatively, power pins may be part of the cartridge 150 for engaging complementary power pin receptacles of the vaporizer body 110. The engagement allows for the transfer of energy from an internal power source (e.g., the battery 124) to the heater 166 in the cartridge 150. The controller 128 may regulate the power flow (e.g., an amount or current and/or a voltage amount) to control a temperature at which the heater 166 heats the vaporizable material contained in the reservoir 158. According to implementations of the current subject matter, a variety of electrical connectors other than a pogo-pin and complementary pin receptacle configuration may be used to electrically connect the vaporizer body 110 and the cartridge 150, such as for example, a plug and socket connector.

[0065] The controller 128 may control and/or communicate with optics circuitry 135 (which controls and/or communicates with one or more displays such as LEDs 136 which may provide user interface output indications), a pressure sensor 137, an ambient pressure sensor 138, an accelerometer 139, and/or a speaker 140 configured to generate sound or other feedback to a user.

[0066] In some implementations, the pressure sensor 137 may be configured to sense a user drawing (i.e., inhaling) on the mouthpiece 152 and activate the heater control circuitry 130 of the vaporizer body 110 to accordingly control the heater 166 of the cartridge 150. In this way, the amount of current supplied to the heater 166 may be varied according the user’s draw (e.g., additional current may be supplied during a draw, but reduced when there is not a draw taking place). The ambient pressure sensor 138 may be included for atmospheric reference to reduce sensitivity to ambient pressure changes and may be utilized to reduce false positives potentially detected by the pressure sensor 137 when measuring draws from the mouthpiece 152. Consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the vaporizer cartridge 150 may additionally and/or alternatively include a single sensor as part of a sensor assembly 410. Readings of the sensor may be used to detect the air pressure to sense a user drawing on the mouthpiece 152. In some implementations, the sensor readings are configured to cause activation of the heater control circuitry 130 of the vaporizer body 110 to accordingly control the heater 166 of the cartridge 150. In some implementations, the sensor readings are configured to directly control the heater 166 of the cartridge 150.

[0067] The accelerometer 139 (and/or other motion sensors, capacitive sensors, flow sensors, strain gauge(s), or the like) may be used to detect user handling and interaction, for example, to detect movement of the vaporizer body 110 (such as, for example, tapping, rolling, and/or any other deliberate movement associated with the vaporizer body 110).

[0068] The vaporizer body 110, as shown in FIG. 2, includes wireless communication circuitry 142 that is connected to and/or controlled by the controller 128. The wireless communication circuitry 142 may include a near-field communication (NFC) antenna that is configured to read from and/or write to the tag 164 of the cartridge 150. Alternatively or additionally, the wireless communication circuitry 142 may be configured to automatically detect the cartridge 150 as it is being inserted into the vaporizer body 110. In some implementations, data exchanges between the vaporizer body 110 and the cartridge 150 take place over NFC. In some implementations, data exchanges between the vaporizer body 110 and the cartridge 150 may take place via a wired connection such as various wired data protocols.

[0069] The wireless communication circuitry 142 may include additional components including circuitry for other communication technology modes, such as Bluetooth circuitry, Bluetooth Low Energy circuitry, Wi-Fi circuitry, cellular (e.g., LTE, 4G, and/or 5G) circuitry, and associated circuitry (e.g., control circuitry), for communication with other devices. For example, the vaporizer body 110 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with a remote processor (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet, a computer, wearable electronics, a cloud server, and/or processor based devices) through the wireless communication circuitry 142, and the vaporizer body 110 may through this communication receive information including control information (e.g., for setting temperature, resetting a dose counter, etc.) from and/or transmit output information (e.g., dose information, operational information, error information, temperature setting information, charge/battery information, etc.) to one or more of the remote processors.

[0070] The tag 164 may be a type of wireless transceiver and may include a microcontroller unit (MCU) 190, a memory 191, and an antenna 192 (e.g., an NFC antenna) to perform the various functionalities described below with further reference to FIG. 3. The tag 164 may be, for example, a 1 Kbit or a 2Kbit tag that is of type ISO/IEC 15693. NFC tags with other specifications may also be used. The tag 164 may be implemented as active NFC, enabling reading and/or writing information via NFC with other NFC compatible devices including a remote processor, another vaporizer device, and/or wireless communication circuitry 142. Alternatively, the tag 164 may be implemented using passive NFC technology, in which case other NFC compatible devices (e.g., a remote processor, another vaporizer device, and/or wireless communication circuitry 142) may only be able to read information from the tag 164.

[0071] The vaporizer body 110 may include a haptics system 144, such as an actuator, a linear resonant actuator (LRA), an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) motor, or the like that provide haptic feedback such as a vibration as a “find my device” feature or as a control or other type of user feedback signal. For example, using an app running on a user device (such as, for example, a user device 305 shown in FIG. 3), a user may indicate that he/she cannot locate his/her vaporizer device 100. Through communication via the wireless communication circuitry 142, the controller 128 sends a signal to the haptics system 144, instructing the haptics system 144 to provide haptic feedback (e.g., a vibration). The controller 128 may additionally or alternatively provide a signal to the speaker 140 to emit a sound or series of sounds. The haptics system 144 and/or speaker 140 may also provide control and usage feedback to the user of the vaporizer device 100; for example, providing haptic and/or audio feedback when a particular amount of a vaporizable material has been used or when a period of time since last use has elapsed. Alternatively or additionally, haptic and/or audio feedback may be provided as a user cycles through various settings of the vaporizer device 100. Alternatively or additionally, the haptics system 144 and/or speaker 140 may signal when a certain amount of battery power is left (e.g., a low battery warning and recharge needed warning) and/or when a certain amount of vaporizable material remains (e.g., a low vaporizable material warning and/or time to replace the cartridge 150). Alternatively or additionally, the haptics system 144 and/or speaker 140 may also provide usage feedback and/or control of the configuration of the vaporizer device 100 (e.g., allowing the change of a configuration, such as target heating rate, heating rate, etc.).

[0072] The vaporizer body 110 may include circuitry for sensing/detecting when a cartridge 150 is connected and/or removed from the vaporizer body 110. For example, cartridge-detection circuitry 148 may determine when the cartridge 150 is connected to the vaporizer body 110 based on an electrical state of the power pins 122a, b within the cartridge receptacle 114. For example, when the cartridge 150 is present, there may be a certain voltage, current, and/or resistance associated with the power pins 122a, b, when compared to when the cartridge 150 is not present. Alternatively or additionally, the tag 164 may also be used to detect when the cartridge 150 is connected to the vaporizer body 110.

[0073] The vaporizer body 110 also includes the connection (e.g., USB-C connection, micro-USB connection, and/or other types of connectors) 118 for coupling the vaporizer body 110 to a charger to enable charging the internal battery 124. Alternatively or additionally, electrical inductive charging (also referred to as wireless charging) may be used, in which case the vaporizer body 110 would include inductive charging circuitry to enable charging. The connection 118 at FIG. 2 may also be used for a data connection between a computing device and the controller 128, which may facilitate development activities such as, for example, programming and debugging, for example.

[0074] The vaporizer body 110 may also include a memory 146 that is part of the controller 128 or is in communication with the controller 128. The memory 146 may include volatile and/or non-volatile memory or provide data storage. In some implementations, the memory 146 may include 8 Mbit of flash memory, although the memory is not limited to this and other types of memory may be implemented as well.

[0075] FIG. 3 illustrates communication between the vaporizer device 100 (including the vaporizer body 110 and the cartridge 150), the user device 305 (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop computer, a workstation, and/or the like), and a remote server 307 (e.g., a server coupled to a network, a cloud server coupled to the Internet, and/or the like) consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. The user device 305 wirelessly communicates with the vaporizer device 100. A remote server 307 may communicate directly with the vaporizer device 100 or through the user device 305. The vaporizer body 110 may communicate with the user device 305 and/or the remote server 307 through the wireless communication circuitry 142. In some implementations, the cartridge 150 may establish through the tag 164 communication with the vaporizer body 110, the user device 305, and/or the remote server 307. While the user device 305 in FIG. 3 is depicted as a type of handheld mobile device, the user device 305 consistent with implementations of the current subject matter is not so limited and may be, as indicated, various other types of user computing devices.

[0076] An application software (“app”) running on at least one of the remote processors (the user device 305 and/or the remote server 307) may be configured to control operational aspects of the vaporizer device 100 and receive information relating to operation of the vaporizer device 100. For example, the app may provide a user with capabilities to input or set desired properties or effects, such as, for example, a particular temperature or desired dose, which is then communicated to the controller 128 of the vaporizer body 110 through the wireless communication circuitry 142. The app may also provide a user with functionality to select one or more sets of suggested properties or effects that may be based on the particular type of vaporizable material in the cartridge 150. For example, the app may allow adjusting heating based on the type of vaporizable material, the user’s (of the vaporizer device 100) preferences or desired experience, and/or the like. The app may be a mobile app and/or a browser-based or web app. For example, the functionality of the app may be accessible through one or more web browsers running on one or more types of user computing devices.

[0077] Data read from the tag 164 from the wireless communication circuitry 142 of the vaporizer body 110 may be transferred to one or more of the remote processors (e.g., the user device 305 and/or the remote server 307) to which it is connected, which allows for the app running on the one or more processors to access and utilize the read data for a variety of purposes. For example, the read data relating to the cartridge 150 may be used for providing recommended temperatures, dose control, usage tracking, and/or assembly information.

[0078] The cartridge 150 may also communicate directly, through the tag 164, with other devices. This enables data relating to the cartridge 150 to be written to/read from the tag 164, without interfacing with the vaporizer body 110. The tag 164 thus allows for identifying information (e.g., pod ID, batch ID, etc.) related to the cartridge 150 to be associated with the cartridge 150 by one or more remote processors. For example, when the cartridge 150 is filled with a certain type of vaporizable material, this information may be transmitted to the tag 164 by filling equipment. Then, the vaporizer body 110 is able to obtain this information from the tag 164 (e.g., via the wireless communication circuitry 142 at the vaporizer body 110) to identify the vaporizable material currently being used and accordingly adjust the controller 128 based on, for example, user-defined criteria or pre-set parameters associated with the particular type of vaporizable material (set by a manufacturer or as determined based upon user experiences/feedback aggregated from other users). For example, a user may establish (via the app) a set of criteria relating to desired effects for or usage of one or more types of vaporizable materials. When a certain vaporizable material is identified, based on communication via the tag 164, the controller 128 may accordingly adopt the established set of criteria, which may include, for example, temperature and dose, for that particular vaporizable material.

[0079] Consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the vaporizable material used with the vaporizer device may be provided within the cartridge. The vaporizer device may be a cartridge-using vaporizer device, a cartridge-less vaporizer device, or a multiuse vaporizer device capable of use with or without a cartridge. For example, a multi-use vaporizer device may include a heating chamber (e.g., an oven) configured to receive the vaporizable material directly in the heating chamber and also configured to receive the cartridge having a reservoir or the like for holding the vaporizable material. In various implementations, the vaporizer device may be configured for use with liquid vaporizable material (e.g., a carrier solution in which an active and/or inactive ingredient(s) are suspended or held in solution or a liquid form of the vaporizable material itself) or solid vaporizable material. Solid vaporizable material may include a plant material that emits some part of the plant material as the vaporizable material (e.g., such that some part of the plant material remains as waste after the vaporizable material is emitted for inhalation by a user) or optionally may be a solid form of the vaporizable material itself such that all of the solid material may eventually be vaporized for inhalation. Liquid vaporizable material may likewise be capable of being completely vaporized or may include some part of the liquid material that remains after all of the material suitable for inhalation has been consumed.

[0080] As described above, the vaporizer device 100 and/or the user device 305 that is part of a vaporizer system as defined above may include a user interface (e.g., including an app or application software) that may be executed on the user device 305 in communication, which may be configured to determine, display, enforce, and/or meter dosing.

[0081] Software, firmware, or hardware that is separate or separable from the vaporizer device and that wirelessly communicates with the vaporizer device may be provided as described with respect to FIG. 3. For example, applications (“apps”) may be executed on a processor of a portable and/or wearable device, including smartphones, smartwatches, and the like, which may be referred to as a personal digital device, a user device, or optionally just a device (e.g., user device 305 in FIG. 3) that is part of a connected system. These digital devices may provide an interface for the user to engage and interact with functions related to the vaporizer device, including communication of data to and from the vaporizer device to the digital device or the like and/or additional third party processor (e.g., servers such as the remote server 307 in FIG. 3). For example, a user may control some aspects of the vaporizer device (temperature, session size, etc.) and/or data transmission and data receiving to and from the vaporizer device, optionally over a wireless communication channel between first communication hardware of the digital device and second communication hardware of the vaporizer device. Data may be communicated in response to one or more actions of the user (e.g., including interactions with a user interface displayed on the device), and/or as a background operation such that the user does not have to initiate or authorize the data communication process.

[0082] User interfaces may be deployed on the digital device and may aid the user in operating the vaporizer device. For example, the user interface operating on the digital device may include icons and text elements that may inform the user of various ways that vaporizer settings may be adjusted or configured by the user. In this manner (or in others consistent with the current subject matter) information about the vaporizer device may be presented using a user interface displayed by the digital device. Icons and/or text elements may be provided to allow the user to see information regarding one or more statuses of the vaporizer device, such as battery information (charge remaining, draws remaining, time to charge, charging, etc.), cartridge status (e.g., type of cartridge and vaporizable material, fill status of cartridge, etc.), and other device statuses or information. Icons and/or text elements may be provided to allow the user to update internal software (a.k.a., firmware) in the vaporizer device. Icons and text elements may be provided to allow the user to set security and/or authorization features of the vaporizer device, such as setting a PIN code to activate the vaporizer device or the use of personal biometric information as a way of authentication. Icons and text elements may be provided to allow the user to configure foreground data sharing and related settings.

[0083] The vaporizer device may perform onboard data gathering, data analysis, and/or data transmission methods. As mentioned, the vaporizer device having wired or wireless communication capability may interface with digital consumer technology products such as smart phones, tablet computers, laptop/netbook/desktop computers, wearable wireless technologies such as “smart watches,” and other wearable technology such as Google “Glass,” or similar through the use of programming, software, firmware, GUI, wireless communication, wired communication, and/or software commonly referred to as application(s) or “apps.” A wired communication connection may be used to interface the vaporizer device to digital consumer technology products for the purpose of the transmission and exchange of data to/from the vaporizer device from/to the digital consumer technology products (and thereby also interfacing with apps running on the digital consumer technology products). A wireless communication connection may be used to interface the vaporizer device to digital consumer technology products for the transmission and exchange of data to/from the vaporizer device from/to the digital wireless interface. The vaporizer device may use a wireless interface that includes one or more of an infrared (IR) transmitter, a Bluetooth interface, an 802.11 specified interface, and/or communications with a cellular telephone network in order to communicate with consumer technology.

[0084] Aspects of the current subject matter relating to draw detection of a vaporizer device are not limited to use with the particular and/or exact configurations and/or components of the vaporizer device 100, the vaporizer body 110, and the cartridge 150 described with reference to FIG. 1A - FIG. 3. Rather, the foregoing descriptions are provided as examples in which the described aspects may be utilized. Variations of the example vaporizer devices described herein may be used with aspects of the current subject matter directed to responsive operation of a vaporizer device. For example, in some implementations, a single-use integrated vaporizer device may employ the aspects of the current subject matter. Aspects of the current subject matter may be employed with various other vaporizer devices, vaporizer bodies, and cartridges and/or with various modifications of the vaporizer device 100, the vaporizer body 110, and the cartridge 150, described herein. For example, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, various sensors and circuitry may not be required for the operations provided herein. For example, the accelerometer 139 and/or the pressure sensor 137 may not be required in some implementations. Various other combinations of configurations and/or components of the vaporizer device 100, the vaporizer body 110, and the cartridge 150 may be employed consistent with implementations of the current subject matter.

[0085] Additionally, while some implementations of the current subject matter may be described with respect to cannabis and cannabinoid-based vaporizable materials, for example cannabis oils, the disclosure is not limited to cannabis and cannabinoid-based vaporizable materials and may be applicable to other types of materials.

[0086] Generally, pressure sensors may be used in vaporizer devices to detect a change in air pressure inside the vaporizer device during a draw (or inhale) on the vaporizer device. For example, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), capacitance, or differential pressure sensors may be used to detect a drop in pressure inside the vaporizer device. In such configurations, an air path is provided within a vaporizer device body to the sensor. When air is drawn through the vaporizer device, at least some of the air passes along the air path to the pressure sensor, and the pressure sensor measures the air pressure along the air path. The sensors used in such configurations may be expensive and consume a significant amount of device resources (e.g., power, processing time, memory, and the like). Such configurations may also be susceptible to damage due to contamination from moisture, leaked vaporizable material (e.g., oil), or other debris. Such sensors may also fail due to the stress of operating under constantly changing temperatures.

[0087] Additionally and/or alternatively, such sensor systems often rely on multiple pressure sensors to determine a difference in pressure along the air path. However, multiple pressure sensors may lead to sensitive and inaccurate pressure measurements due at least in part to the increased noise and changes in air pressure. Inaccurate pressure measurements may lead to improperly heated and delayed heating in vaporizer devices.

[0088] Consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the vaporizer cartridge described herein includes a sensor assembly. The vaporizer cartridge may include a primary air passageway, through which air is drawn to the heater to mix with the vaporized vaporizable material to form an aerosol. The sensor assembly may be positioned within a separate secondary air passageway (though air passing through the secondary air passageway may mix with the air from the primary air passageway). The sensor assembly may include a deflection membrane and a sensor. The deflection membrane may move or otherwise deflect in response to a change in air pressure along the secondary air passageway, as air passes the deflection membrane. The deflection membrane may be formed of or be coupled to a metallic, ferrous, and/or magnetic material. The sensor may include an inductive sensor. In other words, the sensor may include or be coupled to a magnet or magnetic material. As a result, movement of the deflection membrane causes a change in the magnetic field or magnetic flux measured by the sensor. The sensor (or a controller coupled to the sensor) may translate the measured change in magnetic field or magnetic flux to an air pressure. Configurations of the sensor assembly consistent with implementations of the current subject matter allow for measurement of the air pressure or a change in air pressure within the vaporizer cartridge, without relying on an air pressure or change in air pressure within the vaporizer body or between the vaporizer body and vaporizer cartridge. [0089] Consistent with implementations of the current subject matter, the sensor assembly allows for contactless distance sensing of the movement of the deflection membrane. The sensor assembly also detects movement of the deflection membrane without mechanical connections between the sensor and deflection membrane. Thus, the sensor assembly exhibits an improved performance in adverse environments containing contamination from moisture, vaporizable material (e.g., oil), or other debris, eliminates or reduces the likelihood of failure due to moving or sticking components, and/or improves the accuracy of air pressure measurements, while reducing the consumption of device resources. The sensor assembly also allows for a single sensor to be used for measuring the differential air pressure and for improving the accuracy of air pressure measurements. Additionally and/or alternatively, the sensor assembly may be used to determine a dose of the vaporizable material consumed, an amount of vapor produced, and/or an amount of vapor consumed by the user.

[0090] FIG. 4 schematically depicts an example vaporizer cartridge 150 of the vaporizer device 100, consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. The vaporizer cartridge 150 includes a reservoir 158 configured to hold a vaporizable material, a heater 166 configured to heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material to generate an aerosol, and a mouthpiece 152 to deliver the aerosol to the user, such as when the user draws on or inhales from the vaporizer device 100. The vaporizer cartridge 150 may also include a primary or first air passageway 402, a secondary or second air passageway 404, a sensor assembly 410, and/or a controller 490, which may be coupled to and/or form a part of the sensor assembly 410. The controller 490 may be coupled to or form a part of the vaporizer cartridge 150 and/or the vaporizer body 110.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 4, the first air passageway 402 may deliver ambient air along a first airflow path 403 to the heater 166, where the air is mixed with the vaporized vaporizable material to form the aerosol, and/or to the mouthpiece 152 to mix with the generated aerosol. The first air passageway 402 may be defined at least in part by a channel that extends through an interior of the cartridge body 156. The first air passageway 402 may extend along one or more sides of a cartridge body 156 of the vaporizer cartridge 150. For example, the first air passageway 402 may extend from an air flow inlet 162c to the heater 166. The air flow inlet 162c may be positioned on a lateral side of the cartridge body 156. For example, the air flow inlet 162c may be positioned in the cartridge body 156 proximate the mouthpiece 152. The first air passageway 402 may extend from the air flow inlet 162c along the side of the cartridge body 156 in a distal direction towards the distal end of the cartridge body 156, in a lateral direction, such as towards a center of the cartridge body 156, and/or in a proximal direction, such as from the center (e.g., along a central longitudinal axis of the cartridge body 156) towards the heater 166. In some implementations, the cartridge body 156 includes the air flow inlets 162a, 162b, which may additionally and/or alternatively allow air to enter the first air passageway 402 from the distal end of the cartridge body 156. In some implementations, the first air passageway 402 extends along a perimeter of the reservoir 158 within the cartridge body 156.

[0092] The second air passageway 404 may be separate from the first air passageway 402. In some implementations, the second air passageway 404 is positioned on an opposite side (e.g., an opposite lateral side) of the cartridge body 156 relative to at least a portion of the first air passageway 402, such as the inlet 162c and/or at least a portion of the channel of the first air passageway 402. In other implementations, the second air passageway 402 is positioned on a same side as the inlet 162c.

[0093] The second air passageway 404 may additionally and/or alternatively deliver air along a second airflow path 405. For example, the second air passageway 404 may deliver air to the heater 166, where the air is mixed with the vaporized vaporizable material and the air from the first air passageway 402 to form the aerosol, and/or to the mouthpiece 152 to mix with the generated aerosol. In some implementations, the second air passageway 404 is sealed such that the air does not flow along the second airflow path 405 to the heater 166 and/or to the mouthpiece 152. Instead, in some implementations, air may flow into the second air passageway 404 for only pressure change measurement purposes. The second air passageway 404 may extend from the distal end of the cartridge body 156 and/or a lateral side of the cartridge body 156.

[0094] The second air passageway 404 may be defined at least in part by a channel that extends through an interior of the cartridge body 156. The channel may have a cross-sectional shape, such as a cylindrical cross-sectional shape. The cross-sectional shape of the second air passageway 404 may have a cross-sectional shape that is smaller in size (e.g., a volume, a cross-sectional perimeter, a cross-sectional area, etc.) relative to the cross-sectional shape of the first air passageway 402. Such configurations may induce a greater pressure differential across a length of the second air passageway 404 for measurement, compared to the first air passageway 402, such as when the air flow rate is the same within each of the first and second air passageways. The second air passageway 404 may have a diameter of approximately 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm, 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm, 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm, 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm, 2.0 mm to 2.5 mm, 2.5 mm to 3.0 mm, 3.0 mm to 3.5 mm, 3.5 mm to 4.0 mm, or other ranges therebetween. As noted, the first air passageway 402 may have a diameter that is less than the diameter of the second air passageway 404. Thus, the diameter of the first air passageway 402 may be less than approximately 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm, 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm, 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm, 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm, 2.0 mm to 2.5 mm, 2.5 mm to 3.0 mm, 3.0 mm to 3.5 mm, 3.5 mm to 4.0 mm, or other ranges therebetween.

[0095] The second air passageway 404 may extend from an airflow inlet 162d formed in the distal end of the cartridge body 156. As shown in FIG. 4, the second air passageway 404 includes at least one wall 406 surrounding the second airflow path 405. The second air passageway 404 may define an air flow restriction, such as a restricted zone, that creates an air pressure differential (e.g., a pressure drop) across a length, such as the entire length, of the channel defining the second air passageway 404. Based on the pressure differential across the second air passageway 404, the sensor assembly 410 may detect an air pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404 to accurately determine when a user is drawing on the vaporizer device 100 (e.g., via the cartridge 150). The monitored, measured, and/or calculated air pressure described herein may represent a pressure differential or pressure drop across an air channel, such as the second air passageway 404. In some implementations, other airflow configurations may be used with the sensor assembly 410.

[0096] The sensor assembly 410 may include a deflection membrane 412 and a sensor 420. Additionally and/or alternatively, the sensor assembly 410 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 422, a switch 424, an antenna 426, and/or the like. In some implementations, the sensor assembly 410 includes or is coupled to a controller 490, as described in more detail below. The sensor assembly 410 may detect the user is using the vaporizer cartridge based on a determination that the detected pressure change (e.g., differential, drop, etc.) meets a threshold.

[0097] FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 schematically illustrate an example of the sensor assembly 410 consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. As shown in FIG. 5, the deflection membrane 412 forms at least a portion of the second air passageway 404. For example, the deflection membrane 412 defines a portion of the at least one wall 406 of the second air passageway 404. In some implementations, the deflection membrane 412 is aligned with the at least one wall 406. In other implementations, the deflection membrane 412 is inset relative to the at least one wall 406. For example, the deflection membrane 412 may be positioned inwardly towards an interior of the second air passageway 404 relative to the at least one wall 406. [0098] As described herein, the air pressure of the air flowing through the second air passageway 404 is configured to cause movement of the deflection membrane 412. In other words, the deflection membrane 412 is configured to move in response to air passing through the second air passageway 404. Thus, the deflection membrane 412 may include a flexible material to allow the deflection membrane 412 to move in response to air passing through the second air passageway 404. In some implementations, the deflection membrane 412 includes a bellow, a plunger, a door, a flap, and/or the like. The deflection membrane 412 may move in an axial direction. For example, the deflection membrane 412 may move towards and/or away from the second airflow path 405, such as in a direction that is perpendicular to the second airflow path 405. The deflection membrane 412 may additionally and/or alternatively move in a direction that is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the vaporizer body 156.

[0099] The deflection membrane 412 may include one or more materials, such as a ferrous material, a magnetic material, a metallic material, a flexible material, and/or the like. In other implementations, the deflection membrane 412 includes a flexible material, such as a rubber material, and is coupled to a plate formed of an inductive, magnetic, and/or metallic material. As described herein, the material of the deflection membrane 412 and/or the material of the plate coupled to the deflection membrane 412 allows the sensor 420 to detect the movement of the deflection membrane 412, indicating an air pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway.

[0100] In some implementations, the deflection membrane 412 forms a flap, such as a spring-loaded door, positioned at an end of the second air passageway 404 opposite the airflow inlet 162d. The flap may create an airflow restriction within the second air passageway 404 to create the pressure drop across the second air passageway 404. The flap may move and/or open to allow at least some of the air from the second air passageway 404 to mix with the air from the first air passageway 402 and/or the generated aerosol.

[0101] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the sensor 420 may include an inductive proximity sensor, a reluctance sensor (e.g., a transducer or other device that measures changes in magnetic reluctance), and/or the like. The sensor 420 may detect a magnetic field, a magnetic flux, an inductance, axial movement, and/or the like of the deflection membrane 412. The sensor 420 may also detect a change in the magnetic field, magnetic flux, inductance, axial movement, and/or the like of the deflection membrane 412.

[0102] In some implementations, such as when the sensor includes a reluctance sensor, the sensor 420 includes a magnet or magnetic material, and a coil or other wire wound about the magnet or magnetic material, creating a magnetic field. As air passes through the second air passageway 404, the deflection membrane 412 moves in an axial direction, such as in a direction towards or away from the sensor 420. The sensor 420 may detect movement (e.g., a change in the presence and/or proximity) of the deflection membrane 412, since the deflection membrane passes through and/or disrupts the magnetic field. The disruption of the magnetic field generates an electrical signal detected by the sensor 420. The frequency of the generated electrical signal is directly proportional to the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404.

[0103] In other implementations, such as when the sensor 420 includes an inductance or a proximity sensor, the magnet or the magnetic material is coupled to, or forms at least a part of the deflection membrane 412. As air passes through the second air passageway 404, the deflection membrane 412 moves in an axial direction, such as in a direction towards or away from the sensor 420. The sensor 420 may detect movement (e.g., a change in the presence and/or proximity) of the deflection membrane 412, since the deflection membrane passes through and/or disrupts the magnetic field. The disruption of the magnetic field generates an electrical signal detected by the sensor 420. The frequency of the generated electrical signal is directly proportional to the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404.

[0104] As such, the changes in the axial movement, magnetic flux, magnetic field, inductance, and/or the like represents the movement of the deflection membrane 412. In some implementations, the sensor 420 can detect axial movement of the deflection membrane 412 of at least approximately 1 pm, 0.5 pm to 1.0 pm, 1.0 pm to 1.5 pm, 1.5 pm to 2.0 pm, 2.0 pm to 5.0 pm, 5.0 pm to 10.0 pm, or greater, or other ranges therebetween. In some implementations, the sensor 420 detecting the axial movement reaching a threshold (e.g., at least approximately 1 pm, 0.5 pm to 1.0 pm, 1.0 pm to 1.5 pm, 1.5 pm to 2.0 pm, 2.0 pm to 5.0 pm, 5.0 pm to 10.0 pm, or greater, or other ranges therebetween) indicates use of the vaporizer cartridge.

[0105] Referring again to FIGS. 5 and 6, the sensor assembly 410 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) or other circuit board 422. The sensor 420 may be positioned on or otherwise coupled to the PCB 422. The sensor 420, on the PCB 422, may be spaced apart from the deflection membrane 412. The sensor 420 may be positioned within an interior of the cartridge body 156 on one side of the at least one wall 406 opposite the second air flow path 405.

[0106] The controller 490 may be coupled to the PCB 422. In some implementations, the controller 490 includes a microcontroller. The controller 490 may include a processor and/or memory. The memory may store instructions, which when executed by the processor, are configured to cause various operations as described herein.

[0107] The controller 490 may be positioned within the vaporizer cartridge 150 and/or coupled to an external surface of the vaporizer cartridge 150. In other implementations, the controller 490 is coupled to the vaporizer body 110. In some implementations, the sensor 420 transmits the measured signal representing the movement of the deflection membrane 412 to the controller 490. In other words, the controller 490 receives data from the sensor 420. The received data may include the signal representing the movement of the deflection membrane 412. The controller 490 may convert the signal to an air pressure of the air flowing through the second air passageway 404. In some implementations, the controller 490 determines, based on a plurality of received signals (e.g., signals received at various time points), a change in the air pressure and/or a rate of change in the air pressure of the air flowing through the second air passageway 404.

[0108] As described herein, the frequency of the generated electrical signal is directly proportional to the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404. The controller 490 may access a pressure profile to determine, based on the recorded signal representing the detected movement of the deflection membrane 412, the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404. The pressure profile may be stored on the tag 164 of the vaporizer cartridge 150, in memory of the vaporizer cartridge 150, in memory of the vaporizer body 110, and/or stored on a user device (e.g., the device 305) associated with the vaporizer device 100. For example, the controller 490 may communicate with the tag 164, the memory of the vaporizer cartridge 150, the memory of the vaporizer body 110 and/or the like through wired or wireless communication circuitry to access the pressure profile and to retrieve the air pressure corresponding to the signal measured by the sensor 420.

[0109] In some implementations, the sensor 420 measures a baseline movement or signal representing the movement of the deflection membrane 412. For example, the sensor 420 may measure a baseline signal corresponding to movement of the deflection membrane 412 when the user is not inhaling from the vaporizer device, such as when air is not flowing through the second air passageway 404.

[0110] The sensor 420 may measure a modified signal corresponding to movement of the deflection membrane 412. For example, the modified signal may occur during a user inhale, such as when air flows through the second air passageway 404. The flow of air causes movement of the deflection membrane 412, changing the signal corresponding to movement of the deflection membrane 412. The modified signal may be different from the baseline signal.

[OHl] In some implementations, the controller 490 compares the baseline signal to the modified signal to determine a change in the signal. The change between the baseline signal and the modified signal is proportional to the movement of the deflection membrane 412 as well as the pressure drop across the second air passageway 404. Thus, the signals measured by the sensor 420 may be used by, for example, the controller 490 to determine the air pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404.

[0112] In response to detecting the change in signal during a user inhale meeting (e.g., being greater than or equal to) a threshold amount (e.g., a 0.25 % change, a 0.5% change, a 1% change, a 2% change, a 5% change, and/or the like), the controller 490 may cause activation of the heater (e.g., current or power supplied to the heater 166). For example, the controller 490 may communicate with the controller 128 of the vaporizer body 110. In other words, the controller 490 may transmit a signal, such as via the antenna 426 (which may be coupled to the controller 490 at the PCB 422 or to the deflection membrane 412) and/or another communications (e.g., wired or wireless) means, to the vaporizer body 110 to activate the heater 166 when the change in signal during the user inhale meets the threshold amount. In some implementations, the controller 490 may also transmit a signal to the vaporizer body 110 to deactivate the heater 166 when the change in signal during the user inhale falls below the threshold amount. Additionally and/or alternatively, the controller 490 directly communicates with the heater circuitry to cause power to be supplied to the heater 166 when the controller 490 determines the change in signal meets the threshold amount.

[0113] In some implementations, the controller 490 may detect an inhale pressure, based on the received signals from the sensor 420, indicative of a user inhale or draw on the vaporizer device. Upon detection of the user inhale, which may be based on the pressure meeting (e.g., exceeding or being equal to) an activation threshold amount, the vaporizer device 100 may be activated. For example, power may be supplied to the heating element to generate the aerosol.

[0114] In some implementations, the controller 490 monitors the pressure, such as during the detected user inhale. For example, the controller 490 may monitor the pressure at, for example, a defined interval (e.g., every 1 ms, 1 ms to 10 ms, 10 to 50 ms, 50 to 100 ms, 100 to 500 ms, 500 ms to 1 s, and/or the like) to identify changes in the user inhale pressure. A change in the user inhale pressure may, consistent with implementations of the current subj ect matter, serve as an indicator that current should be supplied to the heater 166 to vaporize the vaporizable material.

[0115] In response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting a threshold amount (e.g., a threshold pressure, a threshold pressure differential, and/or the like), the controller 490 may cause activation of the heater (e.g., by current or power supplied to the heater 166). The threshold pressure, such as the measured pressure differential, may be approximately 1 kpa, .7 to 1.2 kpl, 1.0 to 1.5 kpa, 1.5 to 2.0 kpa, and/or the like. For example, the controller 490 may communicate with the controller 128 of the vaporizer body 110. In other words, the controller 490 may transmit a signal to the vaporizer body 110 to activate the heater 166 when the pressure during the user inhale meets (e.g., is greater than or equal to) the threshold amount. In some implementations, the controller 490 may also transmit a signal to the vaporizer body 110 to deactivate the heater 166 when the pressure during the user inhale falls below the threshold amount. Additionally and/or alternatively, the controller 490 directly communicates with the heater circuitry to cause power to be supplied to the heater 166 when the controller 490 determines the user inhale pressure meets the threshold amount.

[0116] In some implementations, rather than through use of the controller 490, the sensor assembly 410 includes a switch 424. The switch 424 may directly cause activation of the heater 166 when the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404 meets the threshold amount. The switch 424 may also directly cause deactivation of the heater 166 when the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404 falls below the threshold amount.

[0117] In some implementations, the controller 490 determines, based on the detected movement of the deflection membrane 412 over a period of time (e.g., 1 to 10 ms, 10 to 50 ms, 50 to 100 ms, 100 to 1000 ms) and/or during the duration of the user inhale, an amount of air passing through the second air passageway 404 during the period of time and/or during the duration of the user inhale. For example, the sensor 420 may measure the movement of the deflection membrane 412 at a high sample rate. The movement of the deflection membrane may correspond to a change in air pressure over time, indicating an amount of air passing through the second air passageway 404. The amount of air may in turn correspond to an amount of aerosol consumed by the user during the user inhale. Thus, the controller 490 may determine the amount of aerosol (or vaporizable material) consumed by the user during each user inhale.

[0118] Referring again to FIGS. 5 and 6, the sensor assembly 410 may include a transducer. The transducer may be coupled to the deflection membrane 412. In some implementations, the transducer is coupled (e.g., inductively coupled) to the deflection membrane 412. In some implementations, the transducer is positioned on the deflection membrane 412. In some implementations, the transducer is positioned on the PCB 422 and coupled to the controller 490.

[0119] The transducer may measure a baseline inductance of the deflection membrane 412. For example, the transducer may measure a baseline inductance of the deflection membrane 412 when the user is not inhaling from the vaporizer device and thus air is not flowing through the second air passageway 404.

[0120] The transducer may measure a modified inductance of the deflection membrane 412. For example, the modified inductance may occur during a user inhale, such as when air flows through the second air passageway 404. The flow of air causes movement of the deflection membrane 412, changing the inductance of the deflection membrane 412.

[0121] In some implementations, the change between the baseline inductance and the modified inductance is proportional to the movement of the deflection membrane 412. Thus, the signal of the transducer may be used, by, for example, the controller 490 to determine an air pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway 404.

[0122] FIG. 7 illustrates an example chart 700 consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. The chart 700 illustrates features of a method, which may optionally include some or all of the following steps. With reference to FIGS. 1A-6, the features of the method may be implemented by the vaporizer device 100, such as by the cartridge 150.

[0123] At 702, a controller (e.g., the controller 490 and/or the controller 128) may receive data from a sensor (e.g., the sensor 420) of a vaporizer cartridge (e.g., the vaporizer cartridge 150). The data corresponds to movement (e.g., axial movement, vibrational movement, etc.) of a deflection membrane (e.g., the deflection membrane 412), which is coupled to the sensor. The deflection membrane forms at least a portion of an air passageway (e.g., the second air passageway 404) within the vaporizer cartridge. The data may include a signal representative of the movement of the deflection membrane caused by air passing through the air passageway. In some implementations, the signal represents an inductance, a reluctance, a magnetic flux, a change in inductance, a change in reluctance, a change in magnetic flux, and/or the like, of the deflection membrane 412.

[0124] At 704, the controller may detect an inhale pressure based on the data from the sensor. The inhale pressure may be indicative of a user inhale. For example, as described herein, the air pressure of the air passing through the air passageway may be directly proportional to the movement (e.g., the signal representative of the movement) of the deflection membrane or change in the movement of the deflection membrane.

[0125] At 706, the controller may monitor the pressure during the user inhale. The controller may monitor the pressure at a defined interval to identify changes in the user inhale pressure.

[0126] At 708, the controller may cause activation of a heater (e.g., the heater 166 of the vaporizer cartridge 150) in response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting (e.g., exceeding or being equal to) a threshold amount. In response to detecting the pressure meeting the threshold amount, the controller may adjust a setpoint temperature of the heater. In some implementations, the controller transmits a control signal to a vaporizer device controller of the vaporizer device coupled to the vaporizer cartridge. The control signal may cause the vaporizer device controller (e.g., the controller 128) to supply a current to the heater to activate the heater.

[0127] FIG. 8 illustrates an example chart 800 consistent with implementations of the current subject matter. The chart 800 illustrates features of a method, which may optionally include some or all of the following steps. With reference to FIGS. 1A-6, the features of the method may be implemented by the vaporizer device 100, such as by the cartridge 150.

[0128] At 802, a controller (e.g., the controller 490 and/or the controller 128) receives baseline data from a sensor (e.g., the sensor 420) of a vaporizer cartridge (e.g., the vaporizer cartridge 150). The baseline data corresponds to baseline movement of a deflection membrane (e.g., the deflection membrane 412) coupled to the sensor. The deflection membrane may form at least a portion of an air passageway (e.g., the second air passageway 404) within the vaporizer cartridge. The baseline movement of the deflection membrane may be an initial movement of the deflection membrane at a first time, such as when a user is not drawing on the vaporizer device. The baseline data may include a signal representative of the baseline movement of the deflection membrane. In some implementations, the signal represents an inductance, a reluctance, a magnetic flux, a change in inductance, a change in reluctance, a change in magnetic flux, and/or the like, of the deflection membrane 412.

[0129] At 804, the controller may determine a baseline air pressure based on the baseline data from the sensor. The baseline air pressure may include a baseline pressure drop across the air passageway. As described herein, the air pressure within the air passageway may be directly proportional to the movement (e.g., the signal representative of the movement) of the deflection membrane or change in the movement of the deflection membrane. [0130] At 806, the controller may receive modified data from the sensor. The modified data corresponds to an updated movement of the deflection membrane. For example, the controller may receive the modified data at a second time after the first time. The controller may receive the modified data from the sensor at, for example, a defined interval.

[0131] At 808, the controller may determine a modified air pressure based on the modified data from the sensor. The modified air pressure may include a modified pressure drop across the air passageway. For example, as described herein, the air pressure within the air passageway may be directly proportional to the movement (e.g., the signal representative of the movement) of the deflection membrane or change in the movement of the deflection membrane.

[0132] At 810, in response to detecting a change between the modified pressure and the baseline pressure, the controller may cause activation of a heater (e.g., the heater 166 of the vaporizer cartridge 150) to generate an aerosol. For example, the controller may compare the baseline pressure to the modified pressure to determine the change between the modified pressure and the baseline pressure. In some implementations, the controller determines the change meets a threshold amount. The controller may determine the user is drawing on the vaporizer device when the change between the modified pressure and the baseline pressure meets the threshold amount. The controller may cause activation of the heater when the change meets the threshold amount. Thus, when the controller determines the user is drawing on the vaporizer device, the controller causes activation of the heater.

[0133] In some implementations, the controller transmits a control signal to a vaporizer device controller of the vaporizer body coupled to the vaporizer cartridge. The control signal may cause the vaporizer device controller (e.g., the controller 128) to supply a current to the heater to activate the heater. Additionally and/or alternatively, when the controller determines the user is no longer drawing on the vaporizer device, such as when the change falls below the threshold amount, the controller may cause deactivation of the heater.

[0134] In some examples, the vaporizable material may include a viscous liquid such as, for example a cannabis oil. In some variations, the cannabis oil comprises between 0.3% and 100% cannabis oil extract. The viscous oil may include a carrier for improving vapor formation, such as, for example, propylene glycol, glycerol, medium chain triglycerides (MCT) including lauric acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, caproic acid, etc., at between 0.01% and 25% (e.g., between 0. 1% and 22%, between 1% and 20%, between 1% and 15%, and/or the like). In some variations the vapor-forming carrier is 1,3-Propanediol. A cannabis oil may include a cannabinoid or cannabinoids (natural and/or synthetic), and/or a terpene or terpenes derived from organic materials such as for example fruits and flowers. For example, any of the vaporizable materials described herein may include one or more (e.g., a mixture of) cannabinoid including one or more of: CBG (Cannabigerol), CBC (Cannabichromene), CBL (Cannabicyclol), CBV (Cannabivarin), THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin), CBDV (Cannabidivarin), CBCV (Cannabichromevarin), CBGV (Cannabigerovarin), CBGM (Cannabigerol Monomethyl Ether), Tetrahydrocannabinol, Cannabidiol (CBD), Cannabinol (CBN), Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA), Cannabidioloc Acid (CBD A), Tetrahydrocannabivarinic Acid (THCVA), one or more Endocannabinoids (e.g., anandamide, 2-Arachidonoylglycerol, 2-Arachidonyl glyceryl ether, N-Arachidonoyl dopamine, Virodhamine, Lysophosphatidylinositol), and/or a synthetic cannabinoids such as, for example, one or more of: JWH-018, JWH-073, CP-55940, Dimethylheptylpyran, HU-210, HU-331, SR144528, WIN 55,212-2, JWH-133, Levonantradol (Nantrodolum), and AM-2201. The oil vaporization material may include one or more terpene, such as, for example, Hemiterpenes , Monoterpenes (e.g., geraniol, terpineol, limonene, myrcene, linalool, pinene, Iridoids), Sesquiterpenes (e.g., humulene, farnesenes, farnesol), Diterpenes (e.g., cafestol, kahweol, cembrene and taxadiene), Sesterterpenes, (e.g., geranylfarnesol), Triterpenes (e.g., squalene), Sesquarterpenes (e.g, ferrugicadiol and tetraprenylcurcumene), Tetraterpenes (lycopene, gamma-carotene, alpha- and beta-carotenes), Polyterpenes, and Norisoprenoids. For example, an oil vaporization material as described herein may include between 0.3-100% cannabinoids (e.g., 0.5-98%, 10-95%, 20-92%, 30-90%, 40-80%, 50-75%, 60-80%, etc.), 0-40% terpenes (e.g., 1-30%, 10-30%, 10-20%, etc.), and 0-25% carrier (e.g., medium chain triglycerides (MCT)).

[0135] In any of the oil vaporizable materials described herein (including in particular, the cannabinoid-based vaporizable materials), the viscosity may be within a predetermined range. At room temperature of about 23° C, the range may be between about 30 cP (centipoise) and about 200 kcP (kilocentipoise). Alternatively, the range may be between about 30 cP and about 115 kcP. Alternatively, the range may be between about 40 cP and about 113 kcP. Alternatively, the range may be between about 50 cP and about 100 kcP. Alternatively, the range may be between about 75 cP and about 75 kcP. Alternatively, the range may be between about 100 cP and about 50 kcP. Alternatively, the range may be between about 125 cP and about 25 kcP. Outside of these ranges, the vaporizable material may fail in some instances to wick appropriately to form a vapor as described herein. In particular, it is typically desired that the oil may be made sufficiently thin to both permit wicking at a rate that is useful with the apparatuses described herein, while also limiting leaking. For example, viscosities below that of about 30 cP at room temperature might result in problems with leaking, and in some instances viscosities below that of about 100 cP at room temperature might result in problems with leaking.

[0136] Although the disclosure, including the figures, described herein may described and/or exemplify these different variations separately, it should be understood that all or some, or components of them, may be combined.

[0137] Although various illustrative embodiments are described above, any of a number of changes may be made to various embodiments. For example, the order in which various described method steps are performed may often be changed in alternative embodiments, and in other alternative embodiments one or more method steps may be skipped altogether. Optional features of various device and system embodiments may be included in some embodiments and not in others. Therefore, the foregoing description is provided primarily for exemplary purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims.

[0138] When a feature or element is herein referred to as being “on” another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly on” another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being “connected”, “attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other embodiments. References to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

[0139] Terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items and may be abbreviated as “/”.

[0140] Spatially relative terms, such as, for example, “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature’s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[0141] Although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various features/elements (including steps), these features/elements should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature/element from another feature/element. Thus, a first feature/element discussed below could be termed a second feature/element, and similarly, a second feature/element discussed below could be termed a first feature/element without departing from the teachings provided herein.

[0142] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising” means various components can be co-jointly employed in the methods and articles (e.g., compositions and apparatuses including device and methods). For example, the term “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of any stated elements or steps but not the exclusion of any other elements or steps.

[0143] As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” “or “approximately” may be used when describing magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is +/- 0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/- 1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/- 2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/- 5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/- 10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical values given herein should also be understood to include about or approximately that value, unless the context indicates otherwise.

[0144] The examples and illustrations included herein show, by way of illustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. As mentioned, other embodiments may be utilized and derived there from, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, are possible.

[0145] In the descriptions above and in the claims, phrases such as, for example, “at least one of’ or “one or more of’ may occur followed by a conjunctive list of elements or features. The term “and/or” may also occur in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it used, such a phrase is intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually or any of the recited elements or features in combination with any of the other recited elements or features. For example, the phrases “at least one of A and B;” “one or more of A and B;” and “A and/or B” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, or A and B together.” A similar interpretation is also intended for lists including three or more items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C;” “one or more of A, B, and C;” and “A, B, and/or C” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together.” Use of the term “based on,” above and in the claims is intended to mean, “based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or element is also permissible.

[0146] One or more aspects or features of the subject matter described herein can be realized in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) computer hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof. These various aspects or features can include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which can be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device. The programmable system or computing system may include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other.

[0147] These computer programs, which can also be referred to as programs, software, software applications, applications, components, or code, include machine instructions for a programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level procedural language, an object-oriented programming language, a functional programming language, a logical programming language, and/or in assembly/machine language. As used herein, the term “machine-readable medium” refers to any computer program product, apparatus and/or device, such as for example magnetic discs, optical disks, memory, and Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs), used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine- readable signal. The term “machine-readable signal” refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor. The machine-readable medium can store such machine instructions non-transitorily, such as for example as would a nontransient solid-state memory or a magnetic hard drive or any equivalent storage medium. The machine-readable medium can alternatively or additionally store such machine instructions in a transient manner, such as for example as would a processor cache or other random access memory associated with one or more physical processor cores.

[0148] To provide for interaction with a user, one or more aspects or features of the subject matter described herein can be implemented on a computer having a display device, such as for example a cathode ray tube (CRT) or a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) monitor for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, such as for example a mouse or a trackball, by which the user may provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well. For example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, such as for example visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user may be received in any form, including, but not limited to, acoustic, speech, or tactile input. Other possible input devices include, but are not limited to, touch screens or other touch- sensitive devices such as single or multi-point resistive or capacitive trackpads, voice recognition hardware and software, optical scanners, optical pointers, digital image capture devices and associated interpretation software, and the like.

[0149] The examples and illustrations included herein show, by way of illustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. As mentioned, other embodiments may be utilized and derived there from, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Such embodiments of the inventive subject matter may be referred to herein individually or collectively by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any single invention or inventive concept, if more than one is, in fact, disclosed. Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A vaporizer cartridge for a vaporizer device, the vaporizer cartridge comprising: a reservoir configured to hold a vaporizable material; a heater configured to heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material to generate an aerosol; a mouthpiece configured to deliver the aerosol to a user; a first air passageway configured to deliver air to the heater; a second air passageway separate from the first air passageway; and a sensor assembly comprising: a deflection membrane forming at least a portion of the second air passageway; a sensor coupled to the deflection membrane, the sensor configured to detect movement of the deflection membrane in response to air passing through the second air passageway; wherein the movement of the deflection membrane indicates a pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway; and wherein detection of a change in the pressure is configured to cause activation of the heater.

2. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 1, wherein the deflection membrane comprises one or more of a ferrous material, a magnetic material, a metallic material, and a flexible material.

3. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the deflection membrane comprises a rubber material; and an inductive material coupled to the rubber material.

4. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the deflection membrane is configured to move in a direction that is axially aligned with the sensor.

5. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 4, wherein the direction is perpendicular to an air flow path extending through the second air passageway.

6. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the deflection membrane defines a flexible flap.

7. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the movement of the deflection membrane is represented by one or more of axial movement, a change in magnetic flux, a change in magnetic field, and a change in inductance.

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8. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sensor comprises an inductive proximity sensor.

9. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the sensor is configured to detect one or more of axial movement of the deflection membrane, a change in an inductance of the deflection membrane, a change in a magnetic flux of the deflection membrane, and a change in a magnetic field.

10. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the sensor comprises a magnetic material.

11. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the sensor comprises a magnet.

12. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the movement of the deflection membrane is at least lum.

13. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 1, further comprising a controller configured to convert the detected movement of the deflection membrane to a pressure.

14. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 13, wherein the controller is configured to determine a rate of change in the movement of the deflection membrane.

15. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein the controller is configured to determine, based on the detected movement of the deflection membrane over a period of time, an amount of the air passing through the second air passageway during the period of time, the period of time representing a puff, the amount of air corresponding to an amount of the vaporizable material consumed during the puff.

16. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the controller is configured to determine, based on the detected movement of the deflection membrane over a period of time, an amount of the air passing through the second air passageway during the period of time; and wherein the controller is configured to determine, based on the amount of air and a temperature of the heater, an amount of vapor produced during the period of time.

17. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 13, wherein the controller is configured to: determine, based on data from the sensor, an inhale pressure indicative of a user inhale; monitor the inhale pressure during the user inhale; and cause, in response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting a threshold amount, activation of the heater.

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18. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 17, wherein the controller is further configured to transmit a signal to the vaporizer device to activate the heater of the vaporizer cartridge when the pressure during the user inhale meets the threshold amount.

19. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 17, wherein the controller is further configured to cause, in response to detecting the pressure below the threshold amount, deactivation of the heater.

20. The vaporizer cartridge of any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the controller is configured to access a pressure profile to determine, based on the detected movement of the deflection membrane, the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway.

21. The vaporizer device of claim 20, wherein the pressure profile is one or more of stored in memory of the vaporizer device, stored on a data tag of the vaporizer cartridge accessible by the controller through wireless communication circuitry, and stored on a user device associated with the vaporizer device.

22. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 1, further comprising a switch, wherein the switch is configured to cause activation of the heater when the pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway meets a threshold amount.

23. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 1, further comprising a transducer coupled to the deflection membrane.

24. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 23, wherein the transducer is inductively coupled to the deflection membrane.

25. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 23, wherein the transducer is configured to measure a baseline inductance.

26. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 25, wherein the transducer is further configured to measure a modified inductance; and wherein a change between the baseline inductance and the modified inductance is caused by the movement of the deflection membrane.

27. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 26, wherein the change between the baseline inductance and the modified inductance is proportional to the movement of the deflection membrane.

28. The vaporizer cartridge of claim 23, wherein the sensor assembly comprises the transducer.

29. A vaporizer device, comprising: a reservoir configured to hold a vaporizable material; a heater configured to heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material to generate an aerosol; a mouthpiece configured to deliver the aerosol to a user; a first air passageway configured to deliver air to the heater; a second air passageway separate from the first air passageway; and a sensor assembly comprising: a deflection membrane forming at least a portion of the second air passageway; a sensor coupled to the deflection membrane, the sensor configured to detect movement of the deflection membrane in response to air passing through the second air passageway; wherein the movement of the deflection membrane indicates a pressure of the air passing through the second air passageway; and wherein detection of a change in the pressure is configured to cause activation of the heater.

30. A method, comprising: receiving, by a controller and from a sensor of a vaporizer cartridge, data corresponding to movement of a deflection membrane coupled to the sensor, the deflection membrane forming at least a portion of an air passageway within the vaporizer cartridge; detecting, by the controller and based on the data from the sensor, an inhale pressure indicative of a user inhale; monitoring, by the controller, the pressure during the user inhale; and causing, by the controller and in response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting a threshold amount, activation of a heater of the vaporizer cartridge.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the causing comprises causing, by the controller and in response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting the threshold amount, adjustment of a setpoint temperature of the heater.

32. The method of claim 30, wherein the vaporizer cartridge comprises the controller.

33. The method of claim 30, wherein the causing comprises transmitting, to a vaporizer device controller of a vaporizer device coupled to the vaporizer cartridge, a control signal, the control signal causing the vaporizer device controller to supply a current to the heater to activate the heater.

34. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions, which when executed by at least one data processor, result in operations comprising: receiving, by a controller and from a sensor of a vaporizer cartridge, data corresponding to movement of a deflection membrane coupled to the sensor, the deflection membrane forming at least a portion of an air passageway within the vaporizer cartridge; detecting, by the controller and based on the data from the sensor, an inhale pressure indicative of a user inhale; monitoring, by the controller, the pressure during the user inhale; and causing, by the controller and in response to detecting the pressure during the user inhale meeting a threshold amount, activation of a heater of the vaporizer cartridge.

35. A method, comprising: receiving, by a controller and from a sensor of a vaporizer cartridge, baseline data corresponding to baseline movement of a deflection membrane coupled to the sensor, the deflection membrane forming at least a portion of an air passageway within the vaporizer cartridge; determining, by the controller and based on the baseline data from the sensor, a baseline pressure; receiving, by the controller and from the sensor, modified data corresponding to an updated movement of the deflection membrane; determining, by the controller and based on the modified data from the sensor, a modified pressure; and causing, by the controller and in response to detecting a change between the modified pressure and the baseline pressure, activation of a heater of the vaporizer cartridge.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the causing further comprises determining the change meets a threshold amount.

37. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions, which when executed by at least one data processor, result in operations comprising: receiving, by a controller and from a sensor of a vaporizer cartridge, baseline data corresponding to baseline movement of a deflection membrane coupled to the sensor, the deflection membrane forming at least a portion of an air passageway within the vaporizer cartridge; determining, by the controller and based on the baseline data from the sensor, a baseline pressure;

39 receiving, by the controller and from the sensor, modified data corresponding to an updated movement of the deflection membrane; determining, by the controller and based on the modified data from the sensor, a modified pressure; and causing, by the controller and in response to detecting a change between the modified pressure and the baseline pressure, activation of a heater of the vaporizer cartridge.

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