WO2023180477A1

WO2023180477A1 - Aerosol generation device user authentication

Info

Publication number: WO2023180477A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/057541
Authority: WO
Inventors: Layth Sliman BOUCHUIGUIR; Pier Paolo MONTICONE
Original assignee: Jt International Sa
Priority date: 2022-03-24
Filing date: 2023-03-23
Publication date: 2023-09-28

Abstract

There is provided an aerosol generation device user authentication unit. The authentication unit comprises a gas sensor (106) configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath, and a controller (102). The controller is configured to measure (301) gas information of a flow of breath using the gas sensor, and determine (302) a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information. The controller is also configured to determine (303) whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement, and perform (304) an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.

Description

AEROSOL GENERATION DEVICE USER AUTHENTICATION

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present application relates to aerosol generation devices, or electronic cigarettes, and more specifically user authentication for aerosol generation devices.

BACKGROUND

Aerosol generation devices such as electronic cigarettes and other aerosol inhalers or vaporisation devices are becoming increasingly popular consumer products.

Heating devices for vaporisation or aerosolisation are known in the art. Such devices typically include a heater arranged to heat a vaporisable or aerosolisable product. In operation, the vaporisable or aerosolisable product is heated with the heater to vaporise or aerosolise the constituents of the product for the consumer to inhale. In some examples, the product may comprise tobacco and may be similar to a traditional cigarette, in other examples the product may be a liquid, or liquid contents in a capsule.

There is a need for robust and efficient user authentication in such devices. An object of the invention is, therefore, to address such a challenge.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In a first aspect, there is provided an aerosol generation device user authentication unit comprising a gas sensor configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath, and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to: measure gas information of a flow of breath using the gas sensor; determine a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information; determine whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and perform an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement. In this way, an aerosol generation device including the aerosol generation device user authentication unit can be configured to authenticate an operator before an aerosolisation session is performed. The authentication can be carried out using a physiological parameter of the operator based upon their breath, thereby reducing an amount of required operator input, and negating the risk of an unauthorised operator who cannot meet the physiological parameter requirement using the device. This is particularly beneficial in inhibiting non-adults (nonauthorised operators), who have different physiological parameters compared to adults (authorised operators), from using the aerosol generation device.

Preferably, the physiological parameter is a basal metabolic rate.

Basal metabolic rate (BMR) varies with age, and as such can be used to distinguish between adults and non-adults. In this way, non-adults can be identified as unauthorised operators based upon their BMR, whilst allowing adults to be identified as authorised operators.

Preferably, the measured gas information comprises a carbon dioxide level in the flow of breath, and the controller is configured to convert the measured carbon dioxide level to the basal metabolic rate.

In this way, the BMR of the operator can be quickly and efficiently determined based upon the gas composition of the operator’s breath.

Preferably, the controller is configured to compare the basal metabolic rate to a predetermined threshold and determine that the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement when the basal metabolic rate is below the predetermined threshold.

In this way, whether the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement can be efficiently determined. Since the basal metabolic rate of adults is generally lower than the basal metabolic rate of non-adults, the controller can easily distinguish between adults and non-adults without any complicated calculation. Preferably, the action comprises setting an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit to an unlocked state.

In this way, only an authorised operator, whose physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement, can unlock the aerosol generation device to perform an aerosolisation session.

Preferably, the controller is configured to compare the basal metabolic rate to a predetermined threshold and determine that the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement when the basal metabolic rate is not below the predetermined threshold.

In this way, whether the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement can be efficiently determined. Since the basal metabolic rate of adults is generally lower than the basal metabolic rate of non-adults, the controller can easily distinguish between adults and non-adults without any complicated calculation.

Preferably, the controller is configured to perform a second action when the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement.

Preferably, the second action is a different action. In this way, different actions can be performed depending on whether the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.

Preferably, the second action comprises setting an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit to a locked state or maintaining the aerosol generation device in a locked state.

In this way, an unauthorised operator whose physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement cannot unlock the aerosol generation device to perform an aerosolisation session.

Preferably, the aerosol generation device user authentication unit further comprises a communications interface configured to communicate with an external device; and the controller is further configured to receive physiological information from the external device by the communication interface and determine the physiological parameter based upon the gas information and the received physiological information.

In this way, the physiological parameter can be more accurately determined to account for differences between the physiology of different individuals, thereby improving the overall reliability.

Preferably, the physiological information comprises at least one of a gender, age or weight of a user of an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit.

In this way, differences in gender, age and/or weight, that can affect BMR, can be accounted for when the BMR is determined, thereby improving the overall reliability. In addition to above parameters, height and/or nationality can be included as the physiological parameters. According to some studies, these parameters can also affect BMR.

Preferably, the gas sensor is one of: a nondispersive infrared carbon dioxide sensor, a photoacoustic sensor, a chemical carbon dioxide sensor, an estimated carbon dioxide sensor, an optoelectronic gas sensor, or a thermal conductivity sensor.

Preferably, the gas sensor is configured to sense gas information of an exhaled flow of breath from an operator into an aerosol generation device comprising the generation device user authentication unit.

Preferably, the gas sensor is further configured to sense gas information of an inhaling flow of breath of an operator of an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit; and the controller is configured to measure inhaled gas information of the inhaling airflow using the gas sensor, and adjust the physiological parameter with the inhaled gas information. In this way, the physiological parameter, such as the BMR level, can be more accurately determined.

Preferably, the gas information is measured over a period of time, and the controller is configured to calibrate the determined physiological parameter using a first portion of the measured gas information at a beginning of the period of time.

In this way, the physiological parameter, such as the BMR level, can be more accurately determined.

Preferably, the aerosol generation device user authentication unit further comprises a flow meter, and the controller is configured to measure a flow rate of the flow of breath using the flow meter and determine the physiological parameter based upon the gas information and the measured flow rate.

Preferably, the controller is configured to measure a sulphur level in the flow of breath using the gas sensor.

The sulphur content in breath can be indicative of bad breath. In this way, the aerosol generation device user authentication unit can be configured to identify if the operator has bad breath. In such case, even if the carbon dioxide level meets the predetermined requirement, the controller can alert to user.

Preferably, the controller is configured to measure an alcohol level in the flow of breath using the gas sensor.

In this way, the aerosol generation device user authentication unit can be configured to determine if an alcohol level in the breath of the operator exceeds a threshold amount. This can then be used to determine if the operator is able to legally operate a motor vehicle, for example. In such case, even if the BMR level meets the predetermined requirement, the controller can alert to user. In a second aspect, there is provided an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of the first aspect, wherein the gas sensor is configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath into the aerosol generation device.

In a third aspect, there is provided an aerosol generation device user authentication method, the method comprising: measuring gas information of a flow of breath using a gas sensor in an aerosol generation device; determining a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information; determining whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and performing an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.

Preferably, the method of the third aspect includes method steps corresponding to the preferable features of the first aspect.

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that when executed by one or more processors of an aerosol generation device user authentication unit cause the one or more processors to perform steps comprising: measuring gas information of a flow of breath using a gas sensor in an aerosol generation device; determining a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information; determining whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and performing an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.

Preferably, the non-transitory computer-readable medium of the fourth aspect includes steps corresponding to the preferable features of the first aspect.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention are now described, by way of example, with reference to the drawings, in which:

Figure 1 A is a diagram of an aerosol generation device configured to receive an aerosol generating consumable; Figure 1 B is a diagram of the aerosol generation device of Figure 1A having received the aerosol generating consumable;

Figure 2A is an enhanced view of a chamber of the aerosol generation device in Figure 1 B, depicting an airflow path when an operator inhales upon the aerosol generating consumable;

Figure 2B is an enhanced view of a chamber of the aerosol generation device in Figure 1 B, depicting an airflow path when an operator exhales through the aerosol generating consumable;

Figure 2C is an enhanced view of an alternate chamber arrangement for the aerosol generation device in Figure 1 B, depicting an airflow path when an operator inhales upon the aerosol generating consumable;

Figure 2D is an enhanced view of the alternate chamber arrangement for the aerosol generation device in Figure 1 B, depicting an airflow path when an operator exhales through the aerosol generating consumable;

Figure 3 is a flow diagram of steps in a user authentication process;

Figure 4 is an exemplary plot of age against basal metabolic rate; and

Figure 5 is a diagram of an alternatively shaped aerosol generation device to that of Figures 1A and 1 B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figures 1A and 1 B show diagrams of the components of an aerosol generation device 100 or a vapour generation device, also known as an electronic cigarette. For the purposes of the present description, it will be understood that the terms vapour and aerosol are interchangeable.

The aerosol generation device 100 has a body portion 112 containing a controller 102, and a power system comprising a battery 104. The battery 104 can be one or more batteries or battery pack(s). The controller 102 is arranged to control the operation of the aerosol generation device. This can include inhibiting and enabling the operation of the device, as well as controlling a power flow of the battery 104 based upon the operating mode of the aerosol generation device. The controller 102 can be at least one microcontroller unit comprising memory, with instructions stored thereon for operating the aerosol generation device 100 including instructions for inhibiting and enabling the operation of the device, instructions for executing operating modes of the device, instructions for controlling the power flow from the battery, and the like, and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions. In addition to housed memory inside the microcontroller, the aerosol generation device 100 can include another memory IC mounted outside of the microcontroller.

In an example, a heater 108 is contained with the body portion 112. In such an example, as shown in Figures 1A and 1 B, the heater 108 is arranged in a cavity 110 (also referred to as a chamber) in the body portion 112. The cavity 110 is accessed by an opening 110A in the body portion 112. The cavity 110 is arranged to receive an associated aerosol generating consumable 114. The aerosol generating consumable can contain an aerosol generating material, such as a tobacco rod containing tobacco. A tobacco rod can be similar to a traditional cigarette. The cavity 110 has cross-section approximately equal to that of the aerosol generating consumable 114, and a depth such that when the associated aerosol generating consumable 114 is inserted into the cavity 110, a first end portion 114A of the aerosol generating consumable 114 reaches a bottom portion 110B of the cavity 110 (that is, an end portion 110B of the cavity 110 distal from the cavity opening 110A), and a second end portion 114B ofthe aerosol generating consumable 114 distal to the first end portion 114A extends outwardly from the cavity 110. In this way, a consumer can inhale upon the aerosol generating consumable 114 when it is inserted into the aerosol generation device 100. Figure 1A shows the aerosol generating consumable 114 before insertion to the cavity 110, and Figure 1 B shows the aerosol generating consumable 114 when inserted into the cavity 110. In the example of Figures 1A and 1 B, the heater 108 is arranged in the cavity 110 such that the aerosol generating consumable 114 engages the heater 108 when inserted into the cavity 110. In the example of Figures 1A and 1 B, the heater 108 is arranged as a tube in the cavity such that when the first end portion 114A of the aerosol generating consumable is inserted into the cavity the heater 108 substantially or completely surrounds the portion of the aerosol generating consumable 114 within the cavity 110. The heater 108 can be a wire, such as a coiled wire heater, or a ceramic heater, or any other suitable type of heater. The heater 108 can comprise multiple heating elements sequentially arranged along the axial length of the cavity that can be independently activated (i.e. powered up) in a sequential order.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the heater can be arranged as an elongate piercing member (such as in the form of needle, rod or blade) within the cavity; in such an embodiment the heater can be arranged to penetrate the aerosol generating consumable and engage the aerosol generating material when the aerosol generating consumable is inserted into the cavity.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), a combination of the tube (shown Figure 1 A and 1 B) and an elongate piercing member can be used as the heater 108.

In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the heater may be in the form of an induction heater. In such an embodiment, a heating element (i.e. a susceptor) can be provided in the consumable, and the heating element is inductively coupled to the induction element (i.e., induction coil) in the cavity when the consumable is inserted into the cavity. The induction heater then heats the heating element by induction. Alternatively, the susceptor can be provided outside of the consumables.

It will be understood from the foregoing that the heater 108 can be a heater component such as a heating element or induction coil. Hereinafter, such a heater component is referred to the as a heater, although it will be understood that this term can refer to any of the aforementioned heater components as well as a heater more generally.

The heater 108 is arranged to heat the aerosol generating consumable 114 to a predetermined temperature to produce an aerosol in an aerosolisation session. An aerosolisation session (sometimes referred to as a vaping session) can be considered as when the device is operated to produce an aerosol from the aerosol generating consumable 114. In an example in which the aerosol generating consumable 114 is a tobacco rod, the aerosol generating consumable 114 comprises tobacco. The heater 108 is arranged to heat the tobacco, without burning the tobacco, to generate an aerosol. That is, the heater 108 heats the tobacco at a predetermined temperature below the combustion point of the tobacco such that a tobacco-based aerosol is generated. The skilled person will readily understand that the aerosol generating consumable 114 does not necessarily need to comprise tobacco, and that any other suitable substance for aerosolisation (or vaporisation), particularly by heating without burning the substance, can be used in place of tobacco.

In an alternative, the aerosol generating consumable can be a vaporisable liquid. The vaporisable liquid can be contained in a cartridge receivable in the aerosol generation device, or can be directly deposited into the aerosol generation device.

The aerosol generation device further comprises a user authentication unit. The user authentication unit comprises a gas sensor 106 configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath, and a controller. In an example, the controller can be the same controller as the controller 102 that is arranged to control the operation of the aerosol generation device. Alternatively, the controller of the user authentication unit can be a separate controller.

The gas sensor 106 is positioned in the airflow path in the aerosol generation device. The airflow path can be considered the path by which air flows through the aerosol generation device when an operator or user of the aerosol generation device either inhales upon the aerosol generating consumable, or exhales through the aerosol generation device (and aerosol generating consumable). In the example of Figures 1A and 1 B, the gas sensor 106 is positioned at the bottom of the cavity 110. However, the skilled person will readily understand that the gas sensor 106 could also be positioned at any other suitable point in the airflow path in order to sense gas information in a flow of breath through the aerosol generation device. For example, gas sensor 106 can be positioned inside of the body 112. A flow of breath can be considered as the flow of air due to an inhalation by the operator, or an exhalation by the operator.

Figure 2A shows an enhanced view of the chamber 110 of the aerosol generation device 100 of Figures 1A and 1 B, with the aerosol generating consumable 114 positioned therein, to provide a conceptual representation of an airflow path when an operator inhales upon the aerosol generating consumable 114.

When the operator inhales or draws upon the aerosol generating consumable 114, air is drawn into the chamber 110 through the opening 110A (depicted by the arrows 202), along the length of the chamber 110 (depicted by the arrows 204), through or over the gas sensor 106 (depicted by the arrows 206), into the first end portion 114A of the aerosol generating consumable 114 and through the aerosol generating consumable to flow out of the aerosol generating consumable 114 at the second end portion 114B (depicted by the arrows 208), and into the mouth of the inhaling operator. In an alternative, the chamber 110 can have openings in a sidewall which pass through the body 112 of the aerosol generation device 100 to form air inlet channels to allow the inflow of air alternatively/additionally to that through the opening 110A.

Figure 2B shows an enhanced view of the chamber 110 of the aerosol generation device 100 of Figures 1A and 1 B, with the aerosol generating consumable 114 positioned therein, to provide a conceptual representation of an airflow path when an operator exhales through the aerosol generating consumable 114.

When the operator exhales into the aerosol generating consumable 114, the exhaled airflows through the aerosol generating consumable 114 from the second end 114B to the first end 114A (depicted by the arrows 210), over/through the gas sensor 106 (depicted by the arrows 212) and into the chamber 110. The exhaled air then flows along the length of the chamber 110 (depicted by arrows 214), and exits the chamber 110 by the opening 110A (depicted by arrows 216). In an alternative, the chamber 110 can have openings in the sidewall which pass through the body 112 of the aerosol generation device 100 to form air outlet channels to allow the outflow of air alternatively/additionally to that through the opening 110A (depicted by arrows 216). These outlet channels can be the same channels as the air inlet channels previously described.

Figures 2C and 2D show an enhanced view of the chamber or cavity 110 of Figures 1A and 1 B with an alternate arrangement for the airflow path in the chamber or cavity 110, compared to that of Figures 2A and 2B. In this alternate arrangement an air chimney 250 is connected to the chamber 110. The air chimney 250 is a channel that connects the chamber 110 to an inlet/outlet hole or holes 251 in the body 112 of the aerosol generation device so that air can be drawn into or blown out of the device through the inlet/outlet holes 251 instead of or additionally to through the opening 110A of the chamber 110. The gas sensor 106 can be positioned in the air chimney 250.

As shown in Figure 2C, when the operator inhales upon the aerosol generating consumable 114, air is drawn into the chamber 110 through the inlet/outlet holes 251 and then the air chimney 250, as depicted by the arrow 252. The air flows over/through the gas sensor 106 and into the first end portion 114A of the aerosol generating consumable 114. The air flows through the consumable 114 where it mixes with generated aerosol, and a mixture of air and aerosol flows out of the second end portion 114B of the consumable 114 into the mouth of the inhaling operator.

As shown in Figure 2D, when the operator blows into the aerosol generating consumable 114, air is forced through into the consumable 114 at the second end portion 114B, as depicted by the arrow 254. The air flows through the consumable 114 where it mixes with an aerosol (if already generated), and out of the first end portion 114A of the consumable 114. The air (or mixture of air and aerosol) then flows into the air chimney 250 and flows over/through the gas sensor 106, before flowing out of the inlet/outlet holes 251 . In some embodiments, the aerosol generation device may have a mouthpiece through which the operator inhales/exhales, rather than inhaling/exhaling through the aerosol generating consumable. For example, when performing user breath analysis (as will be subsequently described) the operator may blow directly into the aerosol generation device, via a mouthpiece, rather than blowing through an aerosol generating consumable in order for the exhaled air to flow over the gas sensor.

As explained, the gas sensor 106 and controller 102 form a user authentication unit for the aerosol generation device 100. The controller 102 uses the gas sensor 106 to measure gas information in the flow of breath from an operator, when the operator exhales, or blows, into the aerosol generation device 100. The measured gas information can be a carbon dioxide level or concentration in the breath. The controller 102 then determines a physiological parameter of the operator, based upon the measured gas information and determines whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement. The physiological parameter can be a basal metabolic rate (BMR); the carbon dioxide level in breath corresponds to BMR. BMR decreases with age, and therefore can be used to distinguish between adults and non-adults. As such, the predetermined requirement can be a threshold BMR value.

When the physiological parameter does meet the predetermined requirement, the controller performs a first action. When the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement, the controller can perform a second action. The first action may differ from the second action. When the physiological parameter is BMR, it can be considered to meet the predetermined requirement when the BMR value is below a threshold BMR value. Likewise, the BMR does not meet the predetermined requirement when the BMR value is not below the threshold BMR value.

For example, the first action can involve unlocking the aerosol generation device so that the operator can perform an aerosolisation session; that is, the operator is authenticated to use the aerosol generation device. The second action can involve maintaining the aerosol generation device in a locked state (or setting the aerosol generation device to a locked state) so that the operator cannot perform an aerosolisation session; that is, the operator is not authenticated to use the aerosol generation device. In this way, the BMR of the operator can be determined based upon the carbon dioxide level in their breath, and then used to distinguish between whether the operator is an adult or non-adult. The aerosol generation device can then be set to an unlocked state for an adult operator, allowing them to perform an aerosolisation session, or set to (or maintained in) a locked state for a non-adult operator, inhibiting them from performing an aerosolisation session.

In more detail, Figure 3 shows a flow diagram of steps involved in such a user authentication process using this user authentication unit.

At step 301 , the controller is configured to measure gas information of a flow of breath using the gas sensor.

That is, the gas sensor is configured to sense gas information of the exhaled flow of breath from the operator, and when the operator of the aerosol generation device exhales or blows into the device (for example as described with reference to Figure 2B), the controller uses the gas sensor to measure gas information of this flow of exhaled air from the operator.

At step 302, the controller is configured to determine a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information.

In a specific example, the physiological parameter that is determined or calculated based upon the measured gas information can be the basal metabolic rate (BMR) of the operator. The gas information measured at the gas sensor can be a carbon dioxide level in the flow of breath. The gas sensor 106 can be a carbon dioxide sensor, such as a nondispersive infrared (NDIR) carbon dioxide sensor, a photoacoustic carbon dioxide sensor based upon the principle of photoacoustic spectroscopy, a thermal conductivity carbon dioxide sensor, a chemical carbon dioxide sensor (similar in a type used in a scuba rebreather), an optoelectronic gas sensor, or an estimated carbon dioxide sensor. Any other suitable type of carbon dioxide sensor could also be used. The controller 102 is configured to determine the BMR value through calculation or conversion based upon the measured carbon dioxide level. This can be achieved using a predetermined relationship between the carbon dioxide level in exhaled breath and BMR. This predetermined relationship can be stored in storage accessible to the controller 102. For example, the predetermined relationship can be an equation to convert a carbon dioxide level to a BMR value. In another example, the predetermined relationship may be a look-up table containing carbon dioxide levels with corresponding BMR values by which a carbon dioxide level can be converted to a BMR value.

At step 303, the controller is configured to determine whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement.

In the example in which the physiological parameter is a BMR value, the controller can be configured to compare the BMR value, based upon the measured carbon dioxide level, to a predetermined threshold and determine that the parameter meets the predetermined requirement when the BMR is below the predetermined threshold.

Likewise, the controller can be configured to compare the BMR value to the predetermined threshold and determine that the parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement when the BMR is not below the predetermined threshold.

When the BMR is below the predetermined threshold, the predetermined requirement is met. When the BMR is not below the predetermined threshold, the predetermined requirement is not met.

In more detail, the controller compares the BMR value to a predetermined threshold BMR. There is an established relationship between BMR and the age of a person. This is presented in the exemplary plot 400 of age 402 against BMR 404 in Figure 4. As age increases, BMR decreases (as indicated by the line 406 for women, and 408 for men). The BMR of an adult is very different to that of a non-adult (for example, a child). As such, the BMR can be used to distinguish between an adult operator of the aerosol generation device, and a non-adult operator (in particular, a child operator of the device).

A minimum operator age can bet set, for example 18 years old, as represented by the line 410 in Figure 4. In some examples, this age can be based upon restrictions for vaping and/or tobacco products in the country in which the device is being used. The threshold BMR can be set to a value corresponding to this age. That is, the threshold BMR value is where the line 410 crosses the line representing BMR as a function of age 406, 408, as indicated by line 412 in Figure 4.

As such, if a flow of breath has a carbon dioxide level corresponding to a BMR below the line 412 (i.e. below the threshold value), the predetermined requirement is met. However, if the flow of breath has a carbon dioxide level corresponding to a BMR not below the line 412 (i.e. not below the threshold value), the predetermined requirement is not met.

In alternative wording, if a flow of breath has a carbon dioxide level corresponding to a BMR not above the line 412 (i.e. not above the threshold value), the predetermined requirement is met. If the flow of breath has a carbon dioxide level corresponding to a BMR above the line 412 (i.e. above the threshold value), the predetermined requirement is not met. This insight brings another alternative embodiment which carbon dioxide is directly compared with threshold value. In this alternative embodiment, threshold value is set as carbon dioxide level, and converting outputs of gas sensor 106 into the physiological parameter can be simplified. In other words, almost of step 302 can be omitted. That is to say, in this alternative the measured carbon dioxide level can be the physiological parameter, and the predetermined requirement can be a threshold carbon dioxide level. In this case, the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement when the measured carbon dioxide level is below the predetermined threshold carbon dioxide level, and the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement when the measured carbon dioxide level is not below the predetermined threshold carbon dioxide level. The threshold value can be predetermined and stored in storage accessible by the controller 102. In an example, the threshold value can be a single preset value corresponding to a required minimum age.

The user authentication process can be calibrated using physiological information of the operator received when setting up the aerosol generation device, for example before a first use. This physiological information can be used in calibrating or determining the measured BMR value.

The aerosol generation device user authentication unit can comprise a communications interface configured to communicate with an external device. In such an example, the controller 102 can be configured to receive physiological information from the external device by the communication interface and use this to adjust or calibrate the measured BMR value based upon the received physiological information.

In an example, the external device may be a mobile telephone (or smartphone), computer, or tablet computer, with an application loaded thereon that is configured to be used with the aerosol generation device. The communications interface may be a wired connection (such as a USB, USB-C, Micro-USB, Lightning connection, or the like) between the external device and the aerosol generation device. Alternatively, the communications interface may be a wireless connection (such as a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection, or the like) between the external device and the aerosol generation device. Information can be exchanged between the application and the aerosol generation device using the communications interface.

The physiological information that is received from the external device can for example comprise one or more of a gender, age or weight of a user of an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit. The physiological information can be input by an operator of the aerosol generation device, at the application. This may, for example, take place during an initial set-up of the aerosol generation device when paired with the application. This physiological information can be used in calibrating or determining the measured BMR value in a number of ways.

In an example, the operator may be prompted to enter into the application whether they are female or male (for example, during an initial set-up of the aerosol generation device). Then, the determined BMR value can be based upon either BMR as a function of age for a woman, or BMR as a function of age for a man. This can be used to account for the difference in BMR as a function of age for women and men, as depicted in Figure 4 by the plot 408 (female) and the plot 410 (male).

In another example, the operator may be prompted to enter further physiological information into the application (for example, during the initial set-up of the aerosol generation device). This physiological information can include one or more of the gender, age or weight of the operator. The BMR value can then be determined based upon these parameters. Such parameters can affect the BMR of the operator, and as such, differences between individuals can be accounted for when the BMR value of the operator is determined. In addition to above parameters, height and/or nationality can be included as the physiological parameters. According to some studies, these parameters can also affect BMR.

The physiological information entered by the operator can be communicated to the aerosol generation device, and a controller at the aerosol generation device can calibrate or adapt the measured BMR value as part of its determination based upon the measured carbon dioxide level.

Returning to Figure 3, after determining whether the physiological parameter (e.g. the BMR value) meets the predetermined requirement at step 303, the process continues to step 304 when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement. Optionally, when the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement, the process instead continues to step 305.

At step 304, the controller is configured to perform an action (first action) when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement. In an example, the first action comprises setting the aerosol generation device to an unlocked state. The first action can also comprise providing a first type of visual, audible, or haptic indication to the operator (for example by a light or display, a speaker, or a vibrating component of the aerosol generation device) to indicate that the aerosol generation device has been unlocked.

At step 305, the controller can be configured to perform a second action when the parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement. In an example, the second action comprises setting the aerosol generation device to a locked state or maintaining the aerosol generation device in a locked state. The second action can also comprise providing a second type (different to the first type) of visual, audible, or haptic indication to the operator (for example by a light or display, a speaker, or a vibrating component of the aerosol generation device) to indicate that the aerosol generation device has not been unlocked, has been locked, or is still locked. Preferably, the first type notification differs from the second type notification.

The aerosol generation device can be set to a locked state, in which an aerosolisation session cannot be performed, when the device is switched on. The operator is then required to blow into the aerosol generation device to initiate the user authentication procedure to unlock the device. The controller 102 uses the gas sensor 106 to measure the carbon dioxide level in the flow of breath. The carbon dioxide level is then converted to a BMR value by the controller 102. The BMR value is compared to the predetermined threshold BMR value. If the determined BMR value is indicative of an adult (i.e. the determined BMR value is below the predetermined threshold BMR value), the controller unlocks the aerosol generation device so that an aerosolisation session can be performed. However, if the determined BMR value is not indicative of an adult (i.e. the determined BMR value is not below the predetermined threshold BMR value), the device remains in the locked state (or switches to a locked state) so that an aerosolisation session cannot be performed.

According to above-mentioned embodiments, gas information is measured (step

301) prior to entering device into an unlocked state (step 305). In other words, gas information is measured in a locked state. Consequently, gas sensor 106 can measure gas information without any disturbances from generated aerosol. It can improve of accuracy of gas sensor (106) output.

In some examples, the determined physiological parameter (e.g. the BMR value) that is based upon the measured carbon dioxide level in the exhaling airflow can be adjusted or calibrated using an inhaling airflow. The gas sensor 106 can be configured to sense gas information of an inhaling flow of breath of an operator of the aerosol generation device, for example as described with reference to Figure 2A. The controller 102 can then be configured to measure inhaled gas information of the inhaling airflow using the gas sensor 106, and adjust or calibrate the determined physiological parameter (i.e. the BMR value determined based upon the measured carbon dioxide level in the exhaling airflow) with the inhaled gas information. The carbon dioxide level of the inaled air can be considered costant and known, thus it can be used for a live calibration of the sensors for specific conditions such as temperature to improve the accuracy.

In some examples, the determined physiological parameter (e.g. the BMR value) that is based upon the measured carbon dioxide level in the exhaling airflow can be calibrated using a first portion of the measured gas information when the operator blows into the device. The controller 102 can measure the gas information of the exhaling airflow over a period of time, using the gas sensor 106 Using a first portion of the measured gas information at the beginning of the period of time, the controller can determine a calibration factor. Using a second portion of the measured gas information, after the first portion, the controller can determine the physiological parameter (i.e. the BMR value). The controller can calibrate the physiological parameter (i.e. the BMR value determined based upon the measured carbon dioxide level in the exhaling airflow) determined using the second portion of the measured gas information by using the first portion of the measured gas information from the beginning of the period of time. This is beneficial because the first portion of the measured gas information is not affected by lung activity as it is from the trachea, and so can be used for a live calibration of the sensors. The user authentication unit can also comprise a flow meter. The controller 102 can be configured to measure a flow rate of the breath using the flow meter and adjust or calibrate the determined physiological parameter with the measured flow rate. That is, the BMR value can be determined based upon the combination of the measured carbon dioxide level in the exhaling airflow, and the rate of this airflow as measured using the flow meter. This can be achieved by integrating the measured flow rate signal into the algorithm for specific volumes for the portion of air going into the lungs compared to the portion remaining in the upper respiratory system.

The flow meter can be positioned in the airflow path described with reference to Figures 2A and 2B, for example at position next to the gas sensor 106. Alternatively, the flow meter and the gas sensor 106 can be integrated into a single component.

In addition or alternatively to the application of the gas sensor 106 in user authentication based upon the determined BMR, as described with reference to Figure 3, the gas sensor 106 can be also configured to measure concentrations or levels of other gases in to the flow of breath of the operator, determine physiological parameters based upon this measured gas information, determine whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement, and perform an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.

The gas sensor 106 can be configured to sense sulphur in a flow of breath. The controller 102 can then be configured to measure a sulphur level or concentration in the flow of breath using the gas sensor 106. A high concentration of sulphur in the breath can be indicative of bad breath. In this way, the gas sensor 106 and controller 102 can be used to test whether the operator has bad smelling breath. The sulphur level in the operator’s breath can be considered a physiological parameter that is based upon the measured gas information. The controller 102 can compare the measured sulphur level to a predetermined sulphur level threshold. The sulphur level threshold can be pre-set at the controller 102. If the sulphur level exceeds the threshold a predetermined requirement is met, and the controller 102 can perform an action in providing a visual, audible or haptic notification to the operator (for example by a light or display, a speaker, or a vibrating component of the aerosol generation device) to alert the operator that they have bad breath. If the sulphur level does not exceed the threshold, the predetermined requirement is not met, and the controller can perform a different action in providing a visual, audible or haptic notification to the operator (for example by a light or display, a speaker, or a vibrating component of the aerosol generation device) to notify the operator that they do not have bad breath. In such case, even if the carbon dioxide level meets the predetermined requirement, the controller can alert the user.

The gas sensor 106 can be configured to sense an alcohol level in a flow of breath. The controller 102 can then be configured to measure an alcohol level in the flow of breath using the gas sensor 106. The level of alcohol in a flow of breath can correspond to a blood alcohol level. In this way, the gas sensor 106 and controller 102 can be used to test whether the operator may, for example, have a level of alcohol in their bodily system that exceeds the limit to legally operate a motor vehicle.

The alcohol level in the operator’s breath can be considered a physiological parameter that is based upon the measured gas information. The controller 102 can compare the measured alcohol level to a predetermined alcohol level threshold. For example, the alcohol level threshold may be the maximum allowable level at which a motor vehicle can be legally operated. This value can be pre-set at the controller 102. If the alcohol level exceeds the threshold a predetermined requirement is met, and the controller 102 can perform an action in providing a visual, audible or haptic notification to the operator (for example by a light or display, a speaker, or a vibrating component of the aerosol generation device) to alert the operator that the alcohol level in their breath exceeds the threshold. If the alcohol level does not exceed the threshold, the predetermined requirement is not met, and the controller 102 can perform a different action in providing a visual, audible or haptic notification to the operator (for example by a light or display, a speaker, or a vibrating component of the aerosol generation device) to notify the operator that the alcohol level in their breath does not exceed the threshold. Alternatively or additionally, the controller 102 can determine the alcohol level in the breath of the operator, using the gas sensor 106, and output this alcohol level on a display of the aerosol generation device, or by communicating it to a connected external device for display on a screen of the external device.

In some examples, a single gas sensor can be used to measure concentrations or levels of different gases (e.g. one or more of carbon dioxide, sulphur and alcohol). Such a multi-gas sensor can be an optoelectronic sensor capable of measuring gas absorption at several wavelengths, for example with different monochromatic light sources, or different optical filters, or by integrating a spectrometer. Alternatively, separate specific gas sensors may be used for different gases, or a combination of specific gas sensors and multi-gas sensors may be used. As such, when a gas sensor is referred to herein, it can mean one or more gas sensors configured to sense one or more different gases. The concentration of the different gasses can be measured in the inhaled and/or exhaled airflow of the operator before, during, or after an aerosolisation session.

The gas sensor(s) can also be used to measure any other unusual concentrations of gasses that might reveal information on the operator, the environment, or the generated aerosol.

Figure 5 shows an aerosol generation device 500 of a similar arrangement to that of Figures 1 A and 1 B, but with a differently shaped body portion 512. The aerosol generation device 500 has the same components as the aerosol generation device 100 described with reference to Figures 1A and 1 B. Whilst not all of the components that are described with reference to Figures 1 A and 1 B are shown in Figure 5, the battery 504, the cavity 510, the opening 510Ato the cavity, the bottom portion 510B of the cavity, and the gas sensor 506 are labelled and perform the same functionality as the corresponding components described with reference to Figures 1A and 1 B. As in Figure 1A and 1 B, the aerosol generation device 500 of Figure 5 is configured to receive an aerosol generating consumable 514, consistent with those described with reference to Figures 1 A and 1 B. In the preceding description, the controller 102 can store instructions for controlling the aerosol generation device and user authentication unit in the described manners. The processing steps described herein carried out by the controller 102 may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, or storage, associated with the controller 102. A computer-readable medium can include non-volatile media and volatile media. Volatile media can include semiconductor memories and dynamic memories, amongst others. Non-volatile media can include optical disks and magnetic disks, amongst others.

It will be readily understood to the skilled person that the preceding embodiments in the foregoing description are not limiting; features of each embodiment may be incorporated into the other embodiments as appropriate.

Claims

1 . An aerosol generation device user authentication unit comprising a gas sensor configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath, and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to: measure gas information of a flow of breath using the gas sensor; determine a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information, wherein the physiological parameter is a basal metabolic rate; determine whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and perform an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.

2. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of claim 1 , wherein the measured gas information comprises a carbon dioxide level in the flow of breath, and the controller is configured to convert the measured carbon dioxide level to the basal metabolic rate.

3. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to compare the basal metabolic rate to a predetermined threshold and determine that the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement when the basal metabolic rate is below the predetermined threshold.

4. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the action comprises setting an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit to an unlocked state.

5. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to compare the basal metabolic rate to a predetermined threshold and determine that the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement when the basal metabolic rate is not below the predetermined threshold.

6. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to perform a second action when the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement; and the second action comprises setting an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit to a locked state or maintaining the aerosol generation device in a locked state.

7. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generation device user authentication unit further comprises a communications interface configured to communicate with an external device; and the controller is further configured to receive physiological information from the external device by the communication interface and determine the physiological parameter based upon the gas information and the received physiological information.

8. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the gas sensor is further configured to sense gas information of an inhaling flow of breath of an operator of an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit; and the controller is configured to measure inhaled gas information of the inhaling airflow using the gas sensor, and adjust the physiological parameter with the inhaled gas information.

9. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the gas information is measured over a period of time, and the controller is configured to calibrate the determined physiological parameter using a first portion of the measured gas information at a beginning of the period of time.

10. The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, further comprising a flow meter, wherein the controller is configured to measure a flow rate of the flow of breath using the flow meter and determine the physiological parameter based upon the gas information and the measured flow rate.

11 . The aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to measure a sulphur level in the flow of breath using the gas sensor; and/or wherein the controller is configured to measure an alcohol level in the flow of breath using the gas sensor.

12. An aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the gas sensor is configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath into the aerosol generation device.

13. An aerosol generation device user authentication method, the method comprising: measuring gas information of a flow of breath using a gas sensor in an aerosol generation device; determining a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information, wherein the physiological parameter is a basal metabolic rate; determining whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and performing an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.

14. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that when executed by one or more processors of an aerosol generation device user authentication unit cause the one or more processors to perform steps comprising: measuring gas information of a flow of breath using a gas sensor in an aerosol generation device; determining a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information, wherein the physiological parameter is a basal metabolic rate; determining whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and performing an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.