Systems and methods for authentication and systems and methods for personalized services based on authentication

Abstract

Systems and methods for authentication and systems and methods for personalized services based on authentication are disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the identification, authorization, registration, and / or operation of fluid delivery systems for delivering substances to individuals. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the sale of fluid delivery devices (e.g., vaporizers or e-cigarettes) can be based on individuals presenting acceptable identification to obtain control over the device. For example, a fluid delivery device for an e-cigarette that delivers nicotine (e.g.) can be sold to an individual in a store, provided that the individual presents photographic identification to prove that the individual is over a certain age.

[0003] Once an individual possesses a fluid delivery device, that individual may provide the fluid delivery device to any other individual, or another individual may use the device without the permission of the individual to whom the fluid delivery device was sold / assigned. This could result in unauthorized individuals (e.g., children) coming into contact with regulated substances.

[0004] Identification generally refers to the process of presenting one's identity to a system. It is usually part of the initial phase of accessing a system. The identification process typically involves presenting one's personally identifiable data (e.g., providing a username during login or using an ATM card).

[0005] Authentication involves verifying the identity provided to a system and is typically used to distinguish between authorized and unauthorized individuals or individuals with different authorizations. Authentication can be performed after identification is complete or concurrently with the identification process. Sometimes, authentication is performed without identifying a unique individual, such as when an individual is authenticated as belonging to a defined group of individuals (e.g., one of a group of employees with the same user ID). This can also be considered identification, meaning that the group has been identified.

[0006] Among known identification methods, biometrics are used to identify the unique characteristics of an individual or group of individuals. Typical examples of biometrics used to authenticate an individual's identity include fingerprints, facial recognition, iris / retinal recognition, and voice patterns. For example, these biometrics can be easily copied through photography (for visible features) and recording (for voice) without needing to know the individual remotely retrieving the biometric information. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Some implementations may provide a method for biometrically identifying an individual's attributes, the method including: emitting a wave toward at least a portion of the individual's mouth; sensing at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual by a device; deriving oral cavity features based on the sensing; and storing an indication of the oral cavity features in a database.

[0008] In some implementations, storing oral characteristics includes storing oral characteristics in association with at least one of the following: personal devices, characteristics associated with an individual, personal attributes of an individual, data that identifies an individual, instructions of restriction, instructions of permission, instructions of action, or any combination thereof.

[0009] In some implementations, personal attributes include an indication of the individual's age or date of birth.

[0010] In some implementations, the data used to identify an individual includes name, Social Security number, identity card number, passport number, license number, facial image, or any combination thereof.

[0011] Some implementations may provide a method for authenticating an individual, which may include: using a sensor to receive reflected waves from the individual's mouth; and authenticating the individual based on at least a portion of the reflected waves received by the sensor.

[0012] Some implementations may provide a method for authenticating an individual, the method including: emitting a wave toward at least a portion of the individual's mouth via at least one of the individual's mouth and nose; receiving a reflected wave using a sensor, the reflected wave including at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual; and authenticating the individual based on at least a portion of the reflected wave received by the sensor.

[0013] In some implementations, the emitted wave includes generating the wave by at least one of the following: a wave generator device and an airflow sound generated by at least one of an individual's inhalation and exhalation.

[0014] In some implementations, the method may include delivering a substance to an individual after successful authentication.

[0015] In some implementations, the method may include performing authentication and delivery within a single inhalation of an individual.

[0016] In some implementations, the method may include transmitting waves to an individual and transmitting waves to at least a portion of the individual's mouth.

[0017] In some implementations, the mouth includes the lips, the tissues surrounding the lips, the oral cavity, or any combination thereof.

[0018] In some implementations, the authentication includes determining whether an individual's age falls within at least one of two categories: above one or more age thresholds or below one or more age thresholds.

[0019] In some implementations, the authentication includes determining whether an individual's age falls within at least one of two categories: above a first age threshold and below a second age threshold, where the second age threshold is lower than the first age threshold.

[0020] In some implementations, the wave includes sound waves.

[0021] In some implementations, the sound wave is selected from the group consisting of: sound waves with frequencies between 15 kHz and 20 kHz; sound waves with frequencies in the range of 2 Hz to 20 kHz; and sound waves with frequencies less than 17 Hz.

[0022] In some implementations, the method may include emitting a sound wave at a volume that enables an individual to hear the sound wave while a second individual cannot hear the sound wave, the head of the second individual being located at a distance of at least 30 centimeters from the head of the individual who can hear the sound wave.

[0023] In some implementations, the distance between the head of one individual and the head of the second individual is at least 50 centimeters.

[0024] In some implementations, the method may include transmitting the wave as a single pulse wave, multiple wave pulses, or any combination thereof.

[0025] In some implementations, the method may include detecting whether the sensor has moved beyond a predefined minimum range after the individual has been successfully authenticated.

[0026] In some implementations, the sensor is coupled to a fluid delivery device adapted to deliver a substance to an individual during inhalation, wherein a predefined minimum range is based on the typical amount of movement during inhalation.

[0027] In some implementations, this predefined minimum range is based on the typical amount of movement during an individual's inhalation.

[0028] In some implementations, the method may include preventing or stopping at least one of fluid delivery and material delivery when a predefined minimum range is detected.

[0029] In some implementations, the method may include at least one of the following: preventing material delivery before authentication is valid; permitting material delivery only after authentication is valid; stopping material delivery once authentication is reset; and locking the device once authentication is invalid.

[0030] In some implementations, the method may include at least one of the following: preventing the heating element used to heat the material to be delivered from heating above a predefined threshold before certification is performed; permitting the heating element to heat above the predefined threshold only after successful certification; and reducing or stopping the heat dissipation of the heating element once the certification indication is reset.

[0031] In some implementations, the method may include at least one of the following: preventing fluid from being delivered to an individual before certification is performed; controlling the flow path of the fluid to the individual such that the fluid arriving at the individual will only carry the substance if the certification indication is successful.

[0032] In some implementations, the method may include determining whether an individual is a child based on reflected waves received by a sensor.

[0033] In some implementations, the method may include determining whether an individual is an adult based on reflected waves received by a sensor.

[0034] In some implementations, the certification is based on biological data input into the system.

[0035] In some implementations, the biometric data includes at least one of sex, race, geographic origin, or any combination thereof.

[0036] In some implementations, the method may include comparing the reflected wave with the characteristics of at least one registered individual to determine whether the individual is a registered individual.

[0037] In some implementations, the method may include identifying individuals based on reflected waves.

[0038] In some implementations, the method may include: periodically transmitting waves for a predefined time period or a predefined number of transmissions; and analyzing at least some of the reflected waves within the predefined time period or after the predefined number of transmissions to authenticate an individual.

[0039] In some implementations, the method may include authenticating individuals at predetermined time intervals.

[0040] In some implementations, the method may include administering the substance to an individual only when the individual is identified as a certified individual.

[0041] In some implementations, the substance includes substances selected from the group consisting of: tobacco-derived substances, nicotine, drugs, and controlled substances.

[0042] In some implementations, the method may include adjusting the fluid flow rate during inhalation, as well as controlling the flow rate based on authentication.

[0043] In some implementations, the method may include delivering substances to individuals, wherein the flow of substances is controlled based on authentication.

[0044] In some implementations, the method may include preventing the delivery of substances to the individual if the certification indicates that the individual is a child.

[0045] In some implementations, the method may include preventing the release of a substance to an individual if the certification does not indicate that the individual is an adult.

[0046] In some implementations, the method may include controlling a pressure-dependent flow valve such that flow through the valve occurs only during intake if the generated pressure exceeds a threshold, and wherein wave emission is performed partially or only when the valve is closed.

[0047] In some implementations, the method may include detecting an individual's inhalation.

[0048] In some implementations, the method may include authentication each time an individual performs an inhalation.

[0049] In some implementations, the method may include delivering a substance to an individual, and authenticating at least once before delivering the substance to the individual and at least once during the delivery of the substance to the individual.

[0050] In some implementations, the method may include preventing the substance from being delivered to the individual if the individual fails to authenticate during the authentication process.

[0051] In some implementations, the method may include an authentication-based output alarm, which may be an audio alarm or a visual alarm.

[0052] In some implementations, the method may include authentication-based notifications, wherein the notifications are output by a fluid delivery device, a remote device, or both.

[0053] In some implementations, the method may include operating according to an operating protocol associated with the individual.

[0054] In some implementations, the method may include authenticating a predetermined number of times before activating the device and / or during device operation.

[0055] In some implementations, the method may include storing usage information, authentication information, registration information, or any combination thereof on a memory.

[0056] In some implementations, the method may include registering individuals.

[0057] In some implementations, the registration includes: extracting at least one feature from the detected wave; associating the at least one feature with an individual; and registering the individual with the at least one feature.

[0058] In some implementations, the method may include requiring a security token for registration.

[0059] In some implementations, the method may include performing the registration process only once per individual and / or per substance program.

[0060] In some implementations, the method may include emitting waves from a speaker.

[0061] In some implementations, the method may include authentication upon receiving an indication that an individual is inhaling through an opening.

[0062] In some implementations, the time interval between an individual inhaling the substance and analyzing whether the individual is truly conscious is between 10 ms and 100 ms.

[0063] In some implementations, the method may include: releasing the substance while instructing an individual to inhale it and simultaneously authenticating the individual, and stopping the release if authentication fails.

[0064] In some implementations, the method may include using machine learning to determine authentication.

[0065] In some implementations, the method may include normalizing one or more of the detected waves relative to a predetermined reference wave signal of ambient sound.

[0066] In some implementations, the method may include identifying and eliminating environmental noise.

[0067] In some implementations, the method may include filtering out detected waves that are below a predefined threshold.

[0068] In some implementations, the method may include setting a predefined threshold below -6 dB, -7 dB, or -8 dB.

[0069] In some implementations, the method may include: positioning the fluid delivery device in the mouth of an individual; and emitting a wave from the fluid delivery device.

[0070] In some implementations, the method may include detecting the fluid delivery device and positioning it according to grooves in the structure of the fluid delivery device.

[0071] In some implementations, authentication includes at least one of the following: identifying the individual; and identifying the individual as an adult.

[0072] In some implementations, the method may include determining whether an individual is positioned relative to a predetermined initial location and warning the individual to return to the predetermined initial location if the individual is not within the predetermined initial location.

[0073] In some implementations, the method may include authenticating an individual via a second authentication method.

[0074] In some implementations, if the certified individual returns an indeterminate result, a second certification method is requested.

[0075] In some implementations, the second authentication method includes inputting data into a user interface.

[0076] In some implementations, the method may include, after successful certification, limiting the delivery of substances to individuals based on the total amount of substances permitted within a limited time period.

[0077] Some implementations may provide an authentication device for authenticating an individual, the device comprising: a wave generator for emitting a wave toward the mouth of an individual; a sensor for detecting at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual; a memory for storing at least one oral cavity feature; and a processor coupled to the sensor and configured to: authenticate the individual by analyzing at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual; derive the oral cavity feature of the individual; and compare the derived oral cavity feature with at least one oral cavity feature stored in the memory.

[0078] In some implementations, the authentication device may include a mouthpiece configured to be inserted into an individual's mouth, such that waves generated by a wave generator are emitted directly from the mouthpiece into at least one of the individual's lips and oral cavity.

[0079] In some implementations, the authentication device may include a sensor for detecting at least one substance exhaled by an individual.

[0080] In some embodiments, the at least one substance includes ethanol, and the device is configured to issue an indication of an individual's blood alcohol concentration.

[0081] In some implementations, the authentication device is associated with a controller configured to enable the use of the second device based at least in part on the individual’s authentication and in conjunction with an indication of the individual’s blood alcohol level.

[0082] In some implementations, the second device is a motor vehicle and the controller is configured to enable the use of the motor vehicle by activating the ignition of the motor vehicle.

[0083] In some implementations, the authentication device may include an oral thermometer.

[0084] Some embodiments may provide an apparatus for obtaining oral characteristics of an individual, the apparatus including: a housing including a wave generator and a wave sensor; and at least one conduit coupled to the housing and configured to allow a user to inhale or exhale via the conduit; wherein the at least one conduit, the wave sensor and the wave generator are positioned and configured to allow a wave generated by the wave generator to be emitted toward at least a portion of the individual's mouth, and the reflection of the wave is sensed by the sensor during the individual's inhalation or exhalation via the conduit.

[0085] Some embodiments may provide a fluid delivery device for delivering a substance to an individual, the fluid delivery device including: a reservoir region configured to contain a reservoir of substance within the substance delivery device; a wave generator configured to emit a wave; a sensor configured to detect at least a portion of the reflection of the wave emitted by the wave generator; and a processor coupled to the sensor and configured to authenticate the individual based on at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual.

[0086] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include an actuator associated with a reservoir, the actuator being configured to control at least one of the following based on processor authentication of an individual: release of a substance from the reservoir; delivery of a substance to an individual.

[0087] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include a nozzle configured to direct waves emitted by a wave generator toward at least a portion of an individual's mouth.

[0088] In some implementations, the nozzle is configured to introduce waves into at least one of an individual's lips, perilipoid tissue, oral cavity, nasal cavity, nasal tissue, or any combination thereof.

[0089] In some implementations, the nozzle is configured to allow fluid delivery to an individual.

[0090] In some implementations, the processor is configured to authenticate an individual by determining, at least whether, an individual's age is above or below an age threshold based on analysis of at least a portion of the reflection of a wave.

[0091] In some implementations, the wave includes sound waves.

[0092] In some implementations, the sound wave has a frequency between 15 kHz and 20 kHz.

[0093] In some implementations, the sound wave has a frequency in the range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

[0094] In some implementations, the sound wave has a frequency in the range of 20 Hz to 15 kHz.

[0095] In some implementations, the sound wave has a frequency of less than 17 kHz.

[0096] In some implementations, the wave generator is configured to emit sound waves at a volume that allows one individual to hear the sound waves while a second individual cannot.

[0097] In some implementations, the wave generator is configured to output a single pulse wave or multiple pulse waves.

[0098] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include a motion detection sensor configured to detect movement of the fluid delivery device, and wherein the processor is configured to determine, after successful authentication, whether the fluid delivery device has moved beyond a predefined minimum range.

[0099] In some implementations, this predefined minimum range is based on the typical amount of movement during inhalation.

[0100] In some implementations, a minimum amount of movement is typical during inhalation for certified individuals.

[0101] In some implementations, the processor is configured to control fluid delivery and, if a predefined minimum range is exceeded, cause fluid delivery to be prevented or stopped, authentication to be reset, or both.

[0102] In some implementations, the processor is configured to perform at least one of the following: prevent material delivery before authentication is valid; permit material delivery only after authentication is valid; stop material delivery once authentication is reset; and lock the device once authentication is invalid.

[0103] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include a heating element positioned to heat a substance within a reservoir, wherein the processor is configured to perform at least one of the following: preventing the heating element from heating above a predefined threshold before performing authentication; permitting the heating element to heat above the predefined threshold only after successful authentication; and reducing or stopping heat dissipation from the heating element once the authentication indication is reset.

[0104] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include electrical contacts for engaging electrical contacts of a heating element associated with a reservoir and positioned to deliver current to a substance associated with and configured to heat the substance within the reservoir, wherein the processor is configured to control the delivery of current to cause at least one of the following: preventing the heating element from heating above a predefined threshold before certification is performed; permitting the heating element to heat above the predefined threshold only after successful certification; and reducing or stopping heat dissipation from the heating element once the certification indication is reset.

[0105] In some implementations, the processor is configured to analyze waves to determine whether an individual is below a threshold age.

[0106] In some implementations, the processor is configured to analyze the wave to determine whether an individual is above a threshold age.

[0107] In some implementations, the analysis is based on biological data input to the processor.

[0108] In some implementations, the biometric data includes at least one of sex, race, geographic origin, or any combination thereof.

[0109] In some implementations, the processor is configured to: compare a detected wave or the analysis result of a detected wave with oral cavity features of one or more of a plurality of registered individuals, and determine whether an individual is one of the plurality of registered individuals, wherein the oral cavity features include wave reflection data or the analysis result thereof indicating an individual or an individual attribute.

[0110] In some implementations, the processor is configured to derive the oral cavity characteristics of an individual using the detected wave.

[0111] In some implementations, the processor is configured to: retrieve stored oral cavity features from a database associated with the fluid delivery device, and identify an individual based on a comparison between the individual's oral cavity features and the stored oral cavity features.

[0112] In some implementations, the processor is configured to identify individuals based on detected waves.

[0113] In some implementations, the processor is configured to: cause the wave generator to periodically emit for a predefined time period or a predefined number of emission times; and analyze all waves received from the sensor within the predefined time period or after the predefined number of emission times to authenticate the individual.

[0114] In some implementations, the processor is configured to repeat authentication at predetermined intervals.

[0115] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device is a substance application device configured to apply a substance to an authorized individual, wherein the processor is configured to authorize the substance application device to apply the substance only when the individual is identified as an authorized individual.

[0116] In some implementations, the substance includes substances selected from the group consisting of: tobacco-derived substances, nicotine, drugs, and controlled substances.

[0117] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device is an electro-fluid delivery device.

[0118] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device is a material delivery device.

[0119] In some embodiments, the fluid comprises ambient air and the device is configured to deliver an airborne substance.

[0120] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include a flow valve that regulates the fluid flow rate during individual inhalation of the fluid delivery device, wherein the processor is configured to control the flow valve based on authentication.

[0121] In some implementations, if the certified individual is a child, the processor is configured to prevent the electrofluid delivery device from allowing material to flow through the opening.

[0122] In some implementations, the processor is configured to prevent the electrofluid delivery device from allowing material to flow through the opening if the authentication does not indicate that the individual is an adult.

[0123] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include a pressure-dependent flow valve such that flow through the valve occurs only during intake via the fluid delivery device when the pressure generated within the fluid delivery device exceeds a threshold, and wherein a wave generator emits a wave partially or only when the valve is closed.

[0124] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include a sensor configured to detect inhalation by an individual via the fluid delivery device.

[0125] In some implementations, the processor is configured to authenticate each time an individual performs inhalation via a fluid delivery device.

[0126] In some implementations, the processor is configured to authenticate at least once before material delivery and at least once during material delivery.

[0127] In some implementations, the processor is configured to prevent material from flowing through the opening if the individual fails to authenticate.

[0128] In some implementations, the fluid delivery device may include an alarm output device based on an authentication output alarm, wherein the alarm is an audio alarm or a visual alarm.

[0129] In some implementations, the processor is configured to issue notifications based on authentication, wherein the notification is output by a fluid delivery device, a remote device, or both.

[0130] In some implementations, the processor is configured to authenticate a predetermined number of times before activating the device and / or during device operation.

[0131] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include a memory for storing usage information, authentication information, registration information, or any combination thereof.

[0132] In some implementations, the processor is configured to perform the registration process for registered individuals.

[0133] In some implementations, for the registration process, the processor is configured to extract and record at least one oral feature from at least a portion of the reflection of the received wave and register the at least one feature.

[0134] In some implementations, the processor is configured to require a security token when performing the registration process.

[0135] In some implementations, the token includes the oral characteristics of the authorized individual and instructions for authorization.

[0136] In some implementations, the processor is configured to perform the registration process only once per individual and / or per substance program.

[0137] In some implementations, the wave generator and sensor are embedded together on a common hardware component.

[0138] In some implementations, the wave generator is a loudspeaker.

[0139] In some implementations, at least one of the wave generator and the sensor is housed within a cover.

[0140] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include structures for positioning the fluid delivery device on an individual’s nose, mouth and / or teeth, such that the wave generator and the opening are in the desired position.

[0141] In some implementations, the desired location includes positioning a portion of the housing within the individual's mouth to contact or not contact the individual's lips, through which waves generated by the wave generator are released.

[0142] In some implementations, the structure includes multiple structures, each configured to allow the fluid delivery device to be positioned differently within an individual's oral cavity.

[0143] In some implementations, the processor is certified only when the fluid delivery device is positioned according to the grooves in the structure.

[0144] In some implementations, the processor performs authentication only when the fluid delivery device is positioned in a trench in a structure based on authentication data available to the fluid delivery device.

[0145] In some implementations, the processor authenticates an individual upon receiving an indication that the individual is inhaling through an opening.

[0146] In some implementations, the duration between an individual inhaling the substance and the analysis of whether the individual has been certified is between 10 ms and 100 ms.

[0147] In some implementations, certification and substance delivery are performed within a single inhalation by the individual.

[0148] In some implementations, the processor is configured to perform authentication in a single inhalation of an individual and to control substance delivery based on that authentication.

[0149] In some implementations, the processor uses machine learning to determine authentication.

[0150] In some implementations, the processor is configured to normalize one or more of the detected waves relative to a predetermined reference wave signal of the ambient sound.

[0151] In some implementations, the processor is configured to identify and eliminate ambient noise.

[0152] In some implementations, the processor is configured to filter out waves that are detected below a predefined threshold.

[0153] In some implementations, the predefined threshold is below -6 dB, -7 dB, or -8 dB.

[0154] In some implementations, the fluid delivery device is selected from the group consisting of a medical inhaler, a nebulizer, an electronic cigarette, and a nasal roll.

[0155] Some embodiments may provide a substance delivery device for delivering substance to an individual, the substance delivery device including: a storage region for storing a substance within the substance delivery device; a wave generator for emitting a wave toward the mouth or a portion thereof of the individual; a sensor for detecting at least a portion of the reflection of the wave emitted by the wave generator; and a processor coupled to the sensor and configured to: receive the wave from the sensor; authenticate the individual based on at least a portion of the detected wave; and control the delivery of substance to the individual based on the authentication.

[0156] In some embodiments, the substance delivery device may include a conduit for delivering a substance to or through the mouth of an individual.

[0157] In some implementations, the substance includes nicotine.

[0158] In some implementations, the reservoir includes tobacco.

[0159] In some implementations, the nicotine reservoir comprises a liquid containing nicotine.

[0160] Some embodiments may provide a fluid delivery device for delivering a substance to an individual, the fluid delivery device including: a reservoir region configured to contain a reservoir of the substance within the fluid delivery device; a sensor configured to detect at least a portion of a reflection of sound waves from the individual; and a processor coupled to the sensor, the processor configured to authenticate the individual based on at least a portion of the reflection of sound waves, wherein the reflection is a reflection of sound waves generated by the individual through inhalation, resulting in an airflow in the direction of the individual's mouth via the individual's nose and at least one of the fluid delivery device.

[0161] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device may include at least two sensors positioned to detect at least a portion of the reflection of sound waves from an individual.

[0162] In some implementations, the reflection is the reflection of sound waves produced by an individual without emitting sound.

[0163] Some embodiments may provide an apparatus for obtaining oral cavity features of an individual, the apparatus comprising: a housing for positioning at least a portion of the apparatus within the mouth of the individual; and a sensor connected to the housing, the sensor being configured to receive reflected waves from the mouth of the individual, the reflected waves being reflected from one or more of: airflow sound waves generated by the individual's inhalation or exhalation; and waves generated by a wave generator; wherein the apparatus is associated with a processor configured to generate oral cavity features of the individual using the reflected waves, and is associated with a database configured to store at least the oral cavity features.

[0164] Some embodiments may provide an apparatus for obtaining oral characteristics of an individual, the apparatus comprising: a housing for positioning at least a portion of the apparatus within the mouth of the individual, the housing including a wave outlet; and at least one of the following: a wave generator connected to the housing and positioned relative to the wave outlet such that a wave generated by the wave generator is emitted through the wave outlet during operation; and a connector for connecting the wave generator to the housing and positioning relative to the wave outlet such that a wave generated by the wave generator is emitted through the wave outlet during operation, wherein at least a portion of the apparatus is positioned within at least a portion of the mouth of the individual such that the wave outlet is in a predetermined position relative to the mouth of the individual.

[0165] In some embodiments, the device may include at least one waveguide for guiding waves from a wave generator to a wave outlet.

[0166] In some implementations, the waveguide is an acoustic waveguide.

[0167] Some embodiments may provide a nozzle for a fluid delivery device, the nozzle comprising: a housing having at least one opening to allow fluid to flow between the nozzle and an individual's oral cavity; and at least one structure for associating at least one of a wave generator component and a wave sensor component with the nozzle, the wave generator component for emitting a wave toward the individual, and the wave sensor component for receiving at least a portion of the wave reflected from the individual.

[0168] In some implementations, the nozzle may include at least one groove to guide the positioning of the nozzle in an individual's mouth.

[0169] In some embodiments, the nozzle may include a reservoir coupled to the housing for holding a substance to be delivered by the fluid delivery device.

[0170] Some implementations may provide an electronic cigarette for delivering nicotine to an individual, the electronic cigarette including: a storage location for storing nicotine in the electronic cigarette content; a wave generator for emitting a wave toward the individual; a wave sensor for detecting at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual; and a processor coupled to the wave sensor to perform the following operations: authenticating an individual based on at least a portion of the wave reflection; comparing at least the reflected portion of the wave with characteristics of one or more of a plurality of registered individuals to determine whether the individual is one of the plurality of registered individuals, and determining whether the individual's age is above or below an age threshold.

[0171] Some implementations of the systems and methods described herein may generally involve authentication. Such systems and methods may be used whenever authentication is required for one of a number of individuals or categories of individuals in order to access or grant access / use rights to one or more of a location, data, service, location (physical or electronic, such as a website), device, system, and / or service.

[0172] Some benefits associated with the embodiments disclosed herein relate to substance delivery devices for delivering substances into or via an individual's mouth. Examples of such devices include pulmonary delivery devices (e.g., inhalation devices, electronic cigarettes, and vapor products).

[0173] In some implementations, the use of such devices can be controlled, for example, based on attributes (e.g., age), prescription, and / or license. In such cases, authentication during or near device use can be used to prevent or significantly reduce abuse and / or unauthorized use by unauthorized individuals. For example, authenticating an individual during use can control the delivery of substances (e.g., drugs) via an inhalation device or restrict children's use of e-cigarettes.

[0174] One advantage of some embodiments of the present invention is that it has biometrics that are difficult or impossible to replicate remotely.

[0175] Another advantage of some embodiments of the invention includes granting the authorized individual the right to use the fluid delivery device after that individual has already been authorized to use the device. For example, this can be used to prevent unauthorized individuals from gaining access to the device after an authorized individual has been authorized. In some embodiments, biological data is obtained during use of the device, which may allow for the recertification of authorized individuals.

[0176] Another advantage of some embodiments of the invention includes performing biometrics using an oral device. Another advantage may include performing biometrics directly related to the use of the device, for example, to prevent unauthorized individuals from using it during operation. For example, the invention can advantageously prevent such unauthorized use if an authorized individual continues to provide biometric data during use instead of the actual individual using the device (e.g., the authorized person provides a fingerprint when the unauthorized person inhales). Attached Figure Description

[0177] Non-limiting examples of embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings listed later in this paragraph. The dimensions of the features shown in the figures are chosen for ease of presentation and clarity, and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0178] The subject matter considered to be the present invention is specifically pointed out and explicitly claimed at the end of the specification. However, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the organization and operation of the invention, as well as its objects, features, and advantages, can be understood by referring to the following detailed description. Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings by way of example rather than limitation, wherein like reference numerals denote corresponding, similar, or analogous elements, and in the drawings:

[0179] Figure 1A This is a block diagram of a system for obtaining oral characteristics of an individual according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0180] Figure 1B According to some embodiments of the present invention, a substance for delivering to an individual includes... Figure 1A A block diagram of the fluid delivery device for the system.

[0181] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C This is a schematic diagram of a fluid delivery device according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0182] Figure 2D and Figure 2E This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for a fluid delivery device according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0183] Figure 3Aand Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram of a fluid delivery device according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0184] Figure 3C This is a graph showing an example of a wave received when the wave sensor is uncovered. Figure 3D This is a graph illustrating examples of waves received when the wave sensor is covered, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0185] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C This is a schematic diagram of a fluid delivery device according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0186] Figure 4D These are examples of nozzles for fluid delivery devices according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0187] Figure 4E and Figure 4F These are perspective views of fluid delivery devices (electronic cigarettes) with nozzles according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 4E ) and top view ( Figure 4F A schematic diagram of ).

[0188] Figure 5A This is a flowchart of a method for registering an individual and for delivering a substance to an individual, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0189] Figure 5B This is a flowchart of a method for authenticating an individual to deliver a substance to that individual, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0190] Figure 5C This is a flowchart of a method for authenticating an individual to deliver a substance to that individual, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0191] Figure 5D This is a flowchart of a method for authenticating an individual to deliver a substance to that individual, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0192] Figure 6A This is a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) curve that visualizes the possible differences between received waves from eight different individuals, based on some implementation schemes of the authentication system and methods.

[0193] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A The magnified portion depicts T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) curves that visualize the possible differences between received waves from two different individuals, based on some implementation schemes of the authentication system and methods.

[0194] Figure 6C and Figure 6D It is based on the illustration of some implementation schemes of the certification system and methods used to determine Figure 6A The curve plot shows the value of the wave sample as a reference wave curve.

[0195] Figure 7 This is a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) curve that visualizes the possible differences between waves received from different locations of an individual's mouth according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0196] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) curve that visualizes the possible differences between adults and children based on the reflected waves from the received waves. Figure 8B yes Figure 8A The enlarged portion marked by the dashed rectangle.

[0197] Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C These are schematic diagrams of a fluid delivery device, a nozzle, and a fluid delivery device wherein the nozzle is positioned on the fluid delivery device for use, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0198] Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C , Figure 10D and Figure 10E These are schematic diagrams of a fluid delivery device, a nozzle, and a fluid delivery device wherein the nozzle is positioned on the fluid delivery device for use, according to some embodiments of the present invention, and a longitudinal cross-section of the fluid delivery device.

[0199] Figure 11A and Figure 11B Visualizations of sample sound waves generated in subject experiments with the emitted wave source portion filtered (11A) and without the emitted wave source portion filtered (11B).

[0200] Figure 11C It is a visualization of the Mel frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC) of the sample sound waves generated in the subject experiment.

[0201] Figure 11D This is a graph showing a comparison of the accuracy of eight classifier algorithms based on training modules of authentication modules according to some implementation schemes.

[0202] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of a system for obtaining and storing oral characteristics of an individual according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0203] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of a system for obtaining oral characteristics of an individual using an oral thermometer, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0204] Figure 14 This is a block diagram of a nozzle for obtaining oral characteristics of an individual associated with fluid consumption, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0205] It should be understood that, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, the components shown in the diagrams are not necessarily drawn precisely or to scale. For example, for clarity, the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated relative to other components, or several physical parts may be included in a single functional block or component. Detailed Implementation

[0206] Figure 1A This is a block diagram illustrating an individual authentication system 50 that can be used in conjunction with some implementations of authentication methods. According to some implementations, for example, authentication of an individual may be required to grant an individual access / use rights to a device, location, and / or service.

[0207] In some implementations, the system 50 disclosed herein allows registration of an individual by emitting a wave into the individual's mouth, recording the reflected wave, and associating the reflected wave with a characteristic associated with any of the following: the individual's identity; at least one attribute of the individual, such as age, allergies, or diseases; and authorization instructions.

[0208] Some implementations of individual authentication systems combine wave information with additional, user-specific information provided in the process of identifying an individual, without the user's direct control. This additional information can improve the accuracy and / or specificity of the detection. Examples include biometric attributes (e.g., fingerprints), detection of RFID elements, typical individual inhalation patterns, typical inhalation timing, typical individual exhalation patterns, typical exhalation timing, and / or typical positioning of the inhalation device during inhalation or exhalation (e.g., sensed by pressure sensors of the inhalation / exhalation patterns, or by accelerometers of the inhalation device's position during inhalation / exhalation).

[0209] According to some implementations, the operation of device 52 (e.g., activation, deactivation, and / or enabling of a given function) is controlled by authentication system 50. Authentication system 50 includes user interface unit 66 and controller unit 60. Both user interface unit 66 and controller unit 60 may be components of the same device (optionally device 52), or alternatively distributed in one or more different devices.

[0210] The controller unit 60 may include a processor 54, a memory 56, and (optionally) a communication unit 58. The processor 54 may be, for example, a chip or any suitable computing or computational device. The memory 56 may include a double data rate (DDR) memory chip, flash memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, cache memory, or any other suitable memory cell or storage unit. The memory 56 may store any executable code, such as an application program, program, process, task, or script. The executable code may include instructions for controlling at least some components of the device 52 according to an embodiment of the invention, or any other code or instructions for performing methods according to an embodiment of the invention. The executable code may be executed by the processor 54.

[0211] In some implementations, controller 60 includes a communication unit 58. Communication unit 58 may include any communication module configured to communicate wirelessly (or wiredly) with an external computing device (e.g., an external server or personal electronic device). The server may be any computing and storage platform, such as a cloud-based computing service and a cloud-based storage device configured to communicate with controller 60. The server may include data related to the operation of device 52. For example, the server may store authentication data for multiple individuals. The personal electronic device may be, for example, a personal computer, desktop computer, mobile computer, laptop computer, notebook computer, tablet computer, smartphone, smartwatch, etc.

[0212] In some implementations, the authentication system 50 can operate without being connected to an external device, so authentication can be performed independently in the device 52 without any external communication.

[0213] In some embodiments, device 52 is an inhaler device. In these embodiments, memory 56 may store executable code that may include instructions for controlling at least some components of the inhaler device (e.g., airflow system, heating actuator, dosage information, substance delivery protocol, etc.). The inhaler may be configured, for example, to provide medical, health, and / or non-medical purposes.

[0214] The communication unit 58 can communicate with a server. The server can also store multiple operation profiles, each associated with the delivery of one or more substances in varying amounts from source materials associated with a certified individual. In some embodiments, the communication unit is operable to automatically adapt the replacement inhaler device to a personal usage pattern defined during use of the original inhaler device for at least one individual.

[0215] In some embodiments, the user authentication system 50 may include a user interface 66 configured to generate and / or record personal data of an individual. In some embodiments, such personal data may relate to waves reflected in the individual's mouth. In some embodiments, such personal data may relate to or include waves reflected in other body cavities of the individual, such as the nasal cavity or tympanic cavity.

[0216] In some embodiments, the wave includes sound waves. In some embodiments, the wave includes electromagnetic waves, including one or more of, for example, visible light, ultraviolet light, infrared light, and radio frequency. The energy emitted by the wave to an individual will be below perceptible levels and will not cause harm or damage. Optionally, a combination of waves, including sound waves and electromagnetic waves, may be used.

[0217] In some implementations, the user interface may include a wave generator 64 and a wave sensor 62 (e.g., a recorder).

[0218] In some embodiments, wave generator 64 may be programmed by a frequency generator to transmit waves (e.g., sound waves) with predefined amplitude, frequency, duration, and offset parameters. Optionally, the frequency of any emitted sound wave may be outside the range of human hearing frequencies, for example, below 20 [Hz] or above 20 [kHz]. In some embodiments, the emitted sound wave has a frequency below 500 Hz. In some embodiments, the emitted sound wave is or includes waves in the ultrasonic frequency range. In some embodiments, the emitted wave is or includes waves in the range of 20 kHz to 1 GHz. In some embodiments, the emitted wave is or includes waves in the range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz or higher. Optionally, wave generator 64 generates sound waves only in the frequency range that minors or children can typically hear but adults cannot (such as 15-20 [kHz]). A potential benefit of this frequency range is that systems configured to identify and reject minors or children may also cause them discomfort and deter further attempts.

[0219] In some embodiments, the wave generator 64 includes a passive wave generator that produces white noise. In some such embodiments, at least two wave sensors 62 (e.g., microphones) are used. Optionally, at least one wave sensor 62 is configured (e.g., localization or orientation limiting) to detect emitted waves in real time (thus identifying the properties of the emitted waves), and at least one other wave sensor 62 is configured (e.g., localization or orientation limiting) to receive reflections. In some such embodiments, white noise is continuously generated during use of the fluid delivery device, including after certification is completed.

[0220] Once wave generator 64 generates a wave and a predetermined time has elapsed (including the wave generated by wave generator 64), the reflected wave is converted into an electronic signal by wave sensor 62 and stored. Optionally, the data is converted into a voltage analog signal. In some embodiments, the voltage analog signal is captured and stored by an oscilloscope. Optionally, the emission by wave generator 64 and the capture of the reflected wave via wave sensor 62 are sequential. In some embodiments, the emission and capture by wave generator 64 partially or completely overlap. In some embodiments, wave generator 64 emits continuously and capture via wave sensor 62 is performed intermittently.

[0221] In some implementations, the authentication system 50 is designed to prevent the recording of background noise during wave emission. Optionally, the controller 60 can substantially prevent noise-generating operations. Optionally, heating or airflow during wave emission. Optionally, the controller 60 can cause a significant blockage of airflow despite the individual's attempt to inhale or exhale. Optionally, via a pressure-sensitive valve that opens at a given pressure while performing sensing earlier, and / or via a controllable valve that opens after sensing is complete or even only after the individual is authenticated. Alternatively or additionally, the system can improve the quality of the recorded sound by enclosing at least one of the wave generator 64 and wave sensor 62 with an intermediate package. The wave generator 64 and / or wave sensor 62 are covered to prevent exposure to the individual's mouth. The wave generator 64 and / or wave sensor 62 can be disposed in various media, including gases and / or liquids, to improve wave propagation properties.

[0222] Figure 1B It includes some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 1A A block diagram of a fluid delivery device 10 for delivering substances to an individual.

[0223] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 includes a reservoir region for containing a reservoir 18 of material to be delivered to an individual. Optionally, the reservoir 18 is included in the reservoir region. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 further includes: a wave generator 22 configured to emit a wave; a sensor 24 configured to detect at least a portion of the reflection of the wave emitted by the wave generator 18; and a processor 34 configured to authenticate an individual based on at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual. Optionally, the processor 34 is configured to control the delivery of the material based on authentication.

[0224] In various embodiments, device 10 is an authentication device for authenticating an individual. In such embodiments, the device may include: a wave generator 62; a sensor 64; and a memory 56 storing at least one oral cavity feature; and a processor 34 operable to authenticate an individual by comparing oral cavity features acquired from the individual using the wave generator 62 and the sensor 64 with the oral cavity features stored in the memory. The authentication device may include a nozzle configured for insertion into the mouth of an individual such that a wave generated by the wave generator 62 is emitted directly from the nozzle to at least one of the individual's lips and oral cavity. In some embodiments, the authentication device is coupled to or included in a fluid delivery device, a substance delivery device, or a device for detecting at least one substance exhaled by the individual. In some embodiments, the authentication device is used to authenticate an individual and transmits the authentication result to one or more separate databases, systems, and / or devices via wired and / or wireless communication.

[0225] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 includes a substance delivery section 14, an authentication module 12, an opening 26, a wave generator 22, and a wave sensor 24. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device is a means for optionally delivering a fluid (e.g., a gas, such as air and / or liquid) to an individual via their mouth. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 can deliver fluid into an individual's lungs. The delivered fluid can serve as a substance carrier. In the case of lung delivery, a gas (optionally, air) can serve as a substance carrier. The substance can be inhaled in any form, including, for example, vapor, powder, and / or aerosol. Optionally, these devices can be electronically controlled. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 can be a medical device. Examples of fluid delivery devices for lung delivery include electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, and inhalers for medical and / or non-medical purposes. Optionally, the fluid delivery device 10 is an inhalation-actuated device. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device can be a means through which an individual inhales air for operation solely of the authentication module 12.

[0226] The material delivery section 14 includes a reservoir 18, an actuator 16, a conduit 20 (e.g., a dispensing tube), and a valve 23. The authentication module 12 includes a processor 34, a memory 31, a storage device 32, a communication module 30, and a display 28.

[0227] The reservoir 18 may be coupled to the actuator 16 and the opening 26 via the conduit 20 (e.g., a distribution tube). The actuator 16 may be coupled to the valve 23, which is positioned anywhere within the conduit 20 or within an adjustable fluid delivery device. The actuator 16 may include a valve configured to guide fluid within the device between alternative conduits based on authentication. The processor 34 may be coupled to the wave generator 22, the wave sensor 24, the memory 31, the storage device 32, the communication module 30, and / or the display 28.

[0228] Wave generator 22 can be a pressure wave generator (e.g., generating sound waves, ultrasound). Wave generator 22 can be a low-frequency buzzer. Wave generator 22 can be a passive noise generator. Wave generator 22 can be a device such that the emitted sound includes sound generated as a byproduct of the use and / or operation of the device. For example, sound can be generated by airflow through device 10 (e.g., due to inhalation and / or exhalation by an individual using the device). Wave generator 22 can be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) based component. Wave generator 22 can emit sound waves or electromagnetic waves. Wave generator 22 can emit single pulse waves and / or multiple pulse waves. Wave generator 22 can include multiple wave generators to generate different waves.

[0229] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 may operate based on the reflection of sound waves generated by an individual. The sound waves generated by the individual may be, for example, sound waves caused by inhalation (resulting in airflow via the individual's nose and at least one of the fluid delivery devices in the direction of the individual's mouth), or sounds of inhalation or exhalation, or any other non-verbal sounds emitted in the direction of the individual's mouth (optionally excluding speech and other vocalizations). In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 includes: a reservoir region configured to contain a reservoir of substance within the fluid delivery device 10; a sensor configured to detect at least a portion of the reflection of sound waves from the individual; and a processor coupled to the sensor and configured to authenticate the individual based on at least a portion of the reflection of sound waves. For example, the reflection may be a reflection of sound waves generated by the individual without uttering a sound. Examples include airflow sounds via the mouth, nose, and / or via one or more of inhalation and / or exhalation through the fluid delivery device 10. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 includes at least two sensors positioned to detect at least a portion of the reflection of sound waves from an individual, particularly in cases where the generated sound is uncontrolled or unpredictable. In various embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 may operate based solely on the reflection of sound waves generated by the individual, solely on the reflection of waves generated by the wave generator 22, or based on both.

[0230] Wave generator 22 can generate waves of any form, including sound waves and electromagnetic waves. Sound waves may include or consist of controlled and / or random uncontrolled white noise. In some embodiments, the generated wave has a predefined pattern over time. For example, the pattern may include different frequencies emitted sequentially and / or in parallel, each frequency having a predefined timing, duration, and / or power and / or different type (e.g., a combination of sound waves and electromagnetic waves) in any pattern.

[0231] In some implementations, the emission waveform is adjusted (e.g., distorted) to conform to the inhalation kinetics of the inspiratory individual. For example, the emission may be based on sensing inhalation initiation (e.g., possibly with a predefined delay timing). In some examples, emission may begin once a substantially stable inhalation is detected.

[0232] In some embodiments, the wave generator 22 may be a loudspeaker. In some embodiments, the wave generator 22 is or includes a passive structure positioned within a fluid delivery device such that it generates noise (e.g., multiple oscillating blades or a fan) when air flows past or approaches it. In some embodiments, the passive wave generator is breath-actuated.

[0233] In some embodiments, wave generator 22 emits electromagnetic waves with one or more frequencies of visible light, ultraviolet light, infrared light, and radio frequency. In some embodiments, other ranges of electromagnetic waves may also be applicable. In some embodiments, wave generator 22 emits sound waves. In some embodiments, the emitted sound waves are in the ultrasonic frequency range. In some embodiments, the emitted waves are or include waves in the range of 20 kHz to 1 GHz. In some embodiments, the emitted waves are or include waves in the range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz or higher. In some embodiments, the emitted sound waves are in the frequency range of human hearing, for example, having frequencies between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. In some embodiments, the emitted sound waves have frequencies below 500 Hz. In some embodiments, the frequency range of the sound waves may be annoying to individuals below a threshold age but inaudible to older individuals. For example, typically only children can hear sound waves between 15-20 kHz. Therefore, the device may emit sound waves in this range to prevent and / or discourage children from using the fluid delivery device 10. In some implementations, sound waves are inaudible to the human ear (e.g., to avoid causing psychological or physical harm).

[0234] Wave sensor 24 can be a sound sensor (e.g., a microphone, a directional microphone array). Sensor 24 can be a piezoelectric microphone. Sensor 24 can be a microelectromechanical (MEMS) based component. Sensor 24 may include a muffler to reduce background noise during recording and increase the portion of recorded data typical for an individual. Sensor 24 may include a transducer operable to convert the received wave into an electrical signal. Alternatively (not shown), the sensor and transducer can be separate components, each of which can be analog or digital.

[0235] The authentication module 12 (or processor 34) may be configured to communicate with, for example, remote devices (e.g., web servers, cloud-based servers, healthcare providers, etc.) to update the operating system, obtain and / or update authentication data associated with one or more authorized individuals, detailed lists of one or more authorized individuals, and / or one or more management schemes associated with one or more authorized individuals. The authentication module 12 may be distributed in more than one location. For example, the display 28 and / or memory 32 may be in a smartphone. In various embodiments, one or more elements of the authentication module 12 may be housed on a computing device that communicates with the fluid delivery device 10 via wired or wireless communication.

[0236] In various embodiments, wave sensor 24 and / or wave generator 22 are integrated into fluid delivery device 10. In various embodiments, wave sensor 24 and / or wave generator 22 are integrated into the nozzle of fluid delivery device 10. In various embodiments, wave sensor 24 and / or wave generator 22 are integrated into a probe (not shown) operable to be coupled to device and / or authentication unit 12. In some embodiments, the probe includes any one of the components of wave sensor 24, wave generator 22, and authentication unit 12. In some embodiments, the probe includes or has access to individual registration data and is operable as an identification object. Optionally, the identification object may be coupled to one or more devices to perform authentication and receive access to the device.

[0237] Display 28 may display information relating to the use of fluid delivery device 10 and / or to an individual, caregiver, or other person. Memory 31 may store usage information, authentication information, registration information, or any combination thereof. In various embodiments, fluid delivery device 10 includes multiple wave generators and / or multiple sensors. In various embodiments, one or more wave generators and one or more sensors are housed in the same housing.

[0238] In some embodiments, valve 23 is a pressure-dependent flow valve, such that the substance flows through the valve only during inhalation, for example, when the generated inhalation pressure exceeds a threshold. In some embodiments, wave generator 22 emits only partially or only when valve 23 is closed. In various embodiments, the valve is electrically and / or mechanical.

[0239] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 includes only a processor and excludes the authentication module 12. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 excludes the valve 23. In various embodiments, one or more components of the authentication module 12 are excluded from the fluid delivery device 10.

[0240] like Figure 1A The components of the fluid delivery device 10 shown may be housed in a single housing or multiple housings. In various embodiments, the reservoir 18 may contain one or more substances comprising: prescription drugs, pharmaceuticals, medicines, nicotine, tobacco, any substance known for use in smoking or smoking alternatives, substances that produce various flavors and / or odors, substances derived from tobacco, or any substance known in the art.

[0241] The fluid delivery device 10 can be an electronic fluid delivery device and / or can be powered by a battery / solar energy.

[0242] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 includes a notification module (e.g., an alarm). This notification module can issue audio notifications, visual notifications, or both (one or more of which may include an alarm). The notification can be triggered if an individual is identified as below an age threshold and / or as not being an authorized individual. In some embodiments, the alarm is located on a remote device (e.g., a smartphone and / or other computer communicating with an authentication module).

[0243] During operation, when the opening 26 (e.g., the nozzle) is positioned toward the individual's mouth 42 (e.g., lips, perilipoid tissue, and / or oral cavity), the authentication module 12 may instruct the wave generator 22 to emit a wave, and the wave generator may emit a wave 44 toward the individual. This can be done, for example, upon request (e.g., pressing a button, inhalation via a fluid delivery device, placing the nozzle in the mouth, providing activation authorization (e.g., via software or by entering a code, etc.) and / or during use (first use and / or other use)). Figure 1A As shown, opening 26 is located within oral cavity 40; however, opening 26 may also be located anywhere that allows waves generated by the wave generator to impact opening 42. In various embodiments, waves are emitted and / or received toward an individual when the wave generator 22 is in direct physical contact with opening 42, when the sensor 24 is in direct physical contact with opening 42, or any combination of both.

[0244] At least a portion of the wave can be reflected from the mouth 42 of an individual, thereby causing a reflection 46 detected by sensor 24. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the wave 44 is absorbed by the oral cavity 40. In some embodiments, a sensor (not shown) is positioned to allow the sensor to detect the absorption of the wave by the oral cavity 40 and / or mouth 42.

[0245] In some embodiments, at least one of the wave generator 22 and sensor 24 is positioned to make direct physical contact with the mouth during wave emission. In some embodiments, at least one of the wave generator 22 and sensor 24 is positioned between the lips and makes direct physical contact with one or both of the lips. In some embodiments, at least one of the wave generator 22 and sensor 24 is positioned to make direct physical contact with one or more teeth. In some embodiments, at least one of the wave generator 22 and sensor 24 is positioned to make direct physical contact with one or more of the tongue and / or the interior portion of the mouth. In some embodiments, the wave generator 22 and sensor 24 are positioned within the individual's oral cavity and do not contact any organs (e.g., lips, teeth, the interior portion of the mouth, and / or the tongue).

[0246] In some embodiments in which at least one of the wave generator 22 and sensor 24 is enclosed within a package, at least one package is positioned to make direct physical contact with a portion of the mouth during wave emission. In some embodiments, at least one package is positioned between the lips and makes direct physical contact with one or both of the lips. In some embodiments, at least one package is positioned to make direct physical contact with one or more teeth. In some embodiments, at least one package is positioned to make direct physical contact with one or more of the tongue and / or the interior portion of the mouth. In some embodiments, all packages are positioned within the individual's oral cavity and do not contact any organs (e.g., lips, teeth, the interior portion of the mouth, and / or tongue).

[0247] Wave sensor 24 can transmit the detected reflection to processor 34. Processor 34 can process the detected reflection to determine whether an individual is authorized to use fluid delivery device 10. If the individual is authorized to use fluid delivery device 10, the individual can be authenticated.

[0248] In some implementations, a portion of the reflection is used for analysis, and this portion is selected to conform to the inhalation kinetics of the inspiratory individual. For example, the selected portion may be based on sensing the start of inhalation (possibly with a predefined delay timing). In some examples, the selected portion may begin once substantially stable inhalation is detected (e.g., when the pressure change over time measured within the fluid delivery device 10 is within a predefined range).

[0249] In some implementations, wave emission is modified based on the sensed inhalation dynamics of the inhaling individual. For example, wave emission may be modified based on one or more of the rate of pressure change within the fluid delivery device 10 and the airflow rate through the fluid delivery device 10. For example, in the case of relatively rapid or intense inhalation, the duration of the emission pattern may be negatively correlated with one of these rates. The faster the pressure builds up, the shorter the duration of the emission, or the earlier the emission begins. To adjust the duration of the pattern, emission can be adjusted by removing or adding one or more emission frequencies, by changing the duration of emission at one or more frequencies and / or the duration of one or more cycles between emission events, and / or by allowing, adjusting, and / or preventing overlap between one or more emission waves, and any combination thereof.

[0250] Optionally, adjustments are performed multiple times during the certification event in response to sensed changes, such that the pattern or portions thereof may shorten and / or lengthen an arbitrary number of times during the certification event. Therefore, the precisely emitted signal may vary between individuals and / or between inhalations of the same individual. Adjustments may be performed in real time and / or based on accumulated data from one or more previous certification / registration events.

[0251] Upon successful individual authentication, actuator 16 may activate delivery and / or control valve 23 of the substance contained in reservoir 18 to a specific position (e.g., fully open or partially open). Actuator 16 may activate heating element (not shown) that heats the substance contained in reservoir 18. The heated substance may flow into the individual's oral cavity 40 through conduit 20. Optionally, the heated substance may undergo chemical and / or structural changes due to its heating and / or cooling temperature. Optionally, the substance in the reservoir is in liquid form and is optionally released by one or more of heating and pressure release. In some embodiments, the substance in the reservoir is in powder form and is released by heating and / or by extracting (or dispensing) the powder from the reservoir. In some embodiments, the substance in the plant material is optionally released by heating or vaporization. In some embodiments, the substance is associated with a ventilated structure (e.g., a tray) and is extracted from the ventilated structure by allowing airflow through the structure and / or heating the structure. In some embodiments, processor 34 controls valve 23.

[0252] As understood in the art, the fluid delivery device 10 may have empty and filled / refilled reservoirs containing one or more substances. Optionally, the reservoirs are replaceable. For example, in some embodiments, the reservoirs are in the form of different substance-carrying units, each configured for one or more substance delivery events (e.g., capsules, chips, cans, etc.). Such reservoirs may be stored in a cartridge for automatic replacement by the fluid delivery device or may be manually replaced.

[0253] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 may require one or more (n) authentications before delivery of the substance, where n is an integer value. In various embodiments, during operation, the individual performs repeated authentications during use of the fluid delivery device 10. Repeated authentications can be caused by the processor 34 to cause the wave generator 22 to emit a desired authentication wave. Authentications can occur at predefined time intervals, after a triggering event, once or a predetermined number of times, periodically for a predefined duration, or any combination thereof. This predefined duration and / or periodicity can be input by the individual and / or can be based on the type of fluid delivery device 10 and / or the type of substance to be delivered. For example, for a fluid delivery device for tobacco or nicotine e-cigarettes, the predefined interval may be 3-5 pulses per second. In some embodiments, for a fluid delivery device for drugs or controlled substances, the predefined interval may be 5-10 pulses per second. The predetermined time interval can be constant (e.g., every predetermined number of milliseconds, for example, within any of the following ranges: 5-50 milliseconds, 50-200 milliseconds, 200-1000 milliseconds, every 1 second, every 5 seconds, or every 10 seconds). In some embodiments, the predetermined time interval varies. For example, as substance delivery or inhalation (or exhalation) proceeds, the periodicity may decrease (e.g., from repeating the authentication module once every 30 milliseconds to repeating the authentication module once every 60 milliseconds, etc.). Optionally, for barely passed authentication (e.g., identifying a very young adult), the periodicity of the authentication process may increase (e.g., from repeating the authentication module once every 30 milliseconds to repeating the authentication module once every 10 milliseconds, etc.).

[0254] In some implementations, the fluid delivery device 10 may require several (n) transmissions for authentication, where n is an integer value. For example, before determining authentication, the fluid delivery device 10 may request a wave generator to transmit a wave five times and receive the signal five times. The determination can then be based on a combination analysis of the received waves. In this way, individual authentication can be more accurate.

[0255] Authentication may involve emitting a wave, receiving at least a portion of the emitted wave reflected from an individual, and analyzing at least a portion of the received wave. In some embodiments, the analysis is performed after the wave is received. The emission of the wave may be continuous, sporadic, or periodic. The reception of the reflected waves may be continuous, sporadic, or periodic. The portion of the received wave selected for analysis may be continuous or sporadic on the corresponding timeline of the received reflections. This selection may be related to the individual's inhalation process. Authentication may be valid when the reflections are analyzed.

[0256] In various implementations, the duration of transmitting, receiving, and analyzing reflections is between 10 ms and 100 ms or 30 ms and 70 ms. In some implementations, the wave is transmitted cyclically, with a wave being transmitted for 50 ms (e.g., a chirp) and then not transmitted for 50 ms to allow wave attenuation (e.g., an interruption) before transmitting the next wave. In some implementations, the transmit / non-transmit cycle occurs 3-5 times for a single authentication attempt. In various implementations, the chirp and the interruption have different durations. In various implementations, the chirp is of the same duration, while the interruption has different durations.

[0257] In various implementations, the duration between the first wave being emitted and / or received and the completion of certification (e.g., first inhalation) is 100ms-500ms, 250ms-300ms, and / or 50-300ms.

[0258] In various embodiments, wave emission begins with an airflow, such as through inhalation by an individual using the device. In some embodiments, wave emission begins within 1 ms after the airflow begins. In some embodiments, reception begins with wave emission. In some embodiments, reception begins at a duration d after the start of wave emission. In various embodiments, the emitted and / or received and / or received wave is selected for analysis within a time period starting between 10 ms and 75 ms from the start of inhalation. In some embodiments, the emitted and / or received and / or received wave is selected for analysis within a time period starting between 30 ms and 60 ms from the start of inhalation. In some embodiments, the emitted and / or received and / or received wave is selected for analysis within a time period starting between 20 ms and 50 ms from the start of inhalation.

[0259] Triggering events can be individual actuation of the device. For example, by turning on the device, by releasing a substance from a storage location (reservoir or cartridge holding the reservoir) to a use location, and / or by sensing that inhalation through the device has begun (e.g., by sensing a drop in air pressure through a sensor in the device (such as a sensor in a breath-actuated inhaler), or by sensing a change in temperature (such as placing a thermometer in the patient's mouth)).

[0260] A triggering event could be that the fluid delivery device 10 has changed its position or moved a distance greater than a predefined minimum range from the authorized location or position. For example, during a single inhalation, an individual should generally not move beyond the minimum range of movement typical of inhalation (e.g., unless the inhalation device is being passed to another individual after certification, which may need to be prevented). After an individual has been certified, if the certification module 12 determines that the fluid delivery device has significantly changed its position (e.g., vertical displacement from the authorized individual's mouth height to waist height, or horizontal displacement, and / or tilting more than 30 degrees, indicating the inhalation device has been passed to another individual), the delivery of the substance may be stopped.

[0261] The fluid delivery device 10 may include a motion detection sensor (not shown). The motion detection sensor can detect movement of the fluid delivery device 10. In some embodiments, the motion detection sensor includes a processor to process the wave detected by the sensor and transmit it to a processor 34 if it exceeds a predefined minimum range. In some embodiments, the motion detection sensor can communicate with the processor 34 and the processor 34 can determine whether the predefined minimum range has been exceeded.

[0262] In some implementations, exceeding a predefined minimum range may cause the fluid delivery device 10 to stop delivering the substance (e.g., by closing valve 23, turning off the power and / or causing the heating element to cool) and / or cause the fluid delivery device 10 to reset its certification (e.g., behave as if the individual was not previously certified).

[0263] The authentication module 12 can be pre-programmed with one or more thresholds that define predefined minimum ranges. Optionally, once an individual registers and uses the fluid delivery device, the thresholds are updated based on the typical actions of that particular individual during use. Authentication can be repeated for each inhalation. This prevents the fluid delivery device from being transferred from an authorized individual to an unauthorized individual after the first inhalation, while allowing authorized individuals to perform normal movements during use (e.g., a series of inhalations from an e-cigarette).

[0264] In some implementations, the triggering event is the individual's inhalation. In some implementations, the fluid delivery device 10 authenticates the individual each time inhalation is sensed.

[0265] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 10 authenticates the individual at least once before delivery and at least once during the delivery of the substance. In some embodiments, the authentication of the fluid delivery device 10 begins before delivery and overlaps with a portion of the delivery.

[0266] The predefined minimum range can be the typical amount of movement during inhalation / exhalation. The predefined minimum range can be input by the individual. The predetermined number of times can be input by the individual. The predefined time period can be based on the amount of time that the fluid delivery device 10 typically uses to deliver the substance. One or more of the predefined time period, predefined minimum range, and predetermined number of times can be based on the substance type.

[0267] In various embodiments, when the fluid delivery device 10 includes a heating element, the heating element may be prevented from heating above a predefined threshold until certification is performed. The predefined threshold may be a temperature slightly lower than the vaporization temperature of the substance (e.g., 5°C–50°C) to expedite delivery time once the individual is certified. In some embodiments, heating only begins after the individual has been certified.

[0268] In some implementations, the wave generator 22 can be triggered to emit a wave in a specific manner. For example, wave emission can be triggered when the current individual initiates inhalation. Such initiation can be supervised, for example, by an authorized individual (e.g., a doctor or healthcare professional, a point-of-sale seller, a transaction verification authority, a welfare officer, a police officer, a pharmacist, a parent, etc.). Supervision may be most useful for wave emission during the registration process.

[0269] In some implementations, such as during registration and / or authentication, individuals may be provided with feedback regarding the success and / or failure of the process. This feedback can be of any type, including one or more of visual, audio, and tactile signaling. In some implementations, the feedback includes feedback provided by the fluid delivery device 10 itself (e.g., light indication and / or sound and / or vibration and / or written notification). In some implementations, instructions include those provided on a screen (e.g., on a PDA and / or computer). In some implementations, written instructions and / or feedback graphics are provided.

[0270] In some implementations, feedback includes suggestions for the user's actions / inactions / action modifications, which can improve outcomes and / or allow for successful authentication / registration. For example, recorded messages can be played to inform the individual that he / she prematurely positioned or removed the fluid delivery device 10 (e.g., from between his / her lips), moved the fluid delivery device excessively during operation, positioned the fluid delivery device in the wrong location, inhaled too quickly or too slowly, etc.

[0271] In some implementations, registration and / or authentication are performed based on notifications from the fluid delivery device 10 (e.g., recorded audible instructions about the steps and / or feedback about performance). Examples may include instructions about starting the process (e.g., how and / or where to position the fluid delivery device 10, how to position the individual, avoid factors that may affect the process, such as excessive movement or excessive noise, and / or find a positive location, such as a quiet, relaxed, comfortable location, etc.).

[0272] In some implementations, such as during a registration event, an individual may be instructed to repeat the transmit / receive phase until sufficient information is obtained to register the characteristics. Instructions may include repeat instructions and / or variational repeat instructions.

[0273] The fluid delivery device 10 can be a medical inhaler, a nebulizer, or an electronic cigarette.

[0274] Go to Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C , Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C It is a fluid delivery device 200 according to some embodiments of the present invention (e.g., as described above). Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the fluid delivery device 10 described herein.

[0275] The fluid delivery device 200 includes a housing 212, a nozzle 201, a wave generator 202, a sensor 204, an adapter 206, and a button 218. The housing 212 may house a reservoir, an actuator, and a processor (not shown). For example, the housing 212 may house a reservoir 18, an actuator 16, and a processor 34, as described above. Figure 1A As described above. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device 200 includes a conduit (not shown) that extends from the interior of a housing (e.g., a reservoir) to a nozzle 201. Substance may enter the nozzle via an opening (not shown) in the fluid delivery device 200 and exit the nozzle 201 at an outlet orifice 216.

[0276] Button 218 can be pressed to turn the fluid delivery device 200 on and off. In some embodiments, when button 218 is pressed, the fingerprint of the individual who pressed the button can be recorded.

[0277] Nozzle 201 can be connected to housing 212 via adapter 206. Wave generator 202 and sensor 204 can be positioned within adapter 206.

[0278] Housing 212 may include I / O ports that can mate with adapter 206 and / or wave generator 202 and sensor 204. The I / O ports establish electrical connections between the processor and wave generator 202 and sensor 204 to electrically connect these components. Adapter 206 may structurally mate with housing 212 and nozzle 201 to ensure corresponding I / O alignment, thereby forming structural and electrical connections between components.

[0279] In some implementations, the nozzle 201 can be semi-transparent, such as... Figure 2B As shown.

[0280] In some embodiments, the nozzle 201 includes a groove. The groove guides the individual to position the nozzle at a specific portion of the individual's lips, or at a specific location relative to the individual's teeth, oral cavity, or any other part of the mouth. In some embodiments, the device is configured to warn the individual to return to a predefined position.

[0281] Figure 2D and Figure 2E These are schematic diagrams of nozzles 250 and 252 for fluid delivery devices according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0282] Figure 2D It is shown that it can be coupled to a fluid delivery device (e.g., as described above). Figure 2A The nozzle 250 of the fluid delivery device 200 shown is included. The nozzle 250 includes four grooves 253A, 253B, 254A, and 254B for teeth, a portion 256 connecting to the fluid delivery device, and a portion 255 inserted into the mouth of an individual. The four grooves provide two tooth positions for the individual. During use, the individual inserts the nozzle 250 into their mouth and positions their upper teeth on either groove 253A or 254A and / or their lower teeth on either groove 253B or 254B. In this way, the individual's position relative to the wave generator and sensors is selectable and repeatable. In some embodiments, the triggering event that causes the authentication process to begin is the individual returning to their predefined position, as determined, for example, via sensors embedded in one or more grooves (e.g., for humidity, conductivity, and / or pressure).

[0283] Figure 2E It is shown that it can be coupled to a fluid delivery device (e.g., as described above). Figure 2A The fluid delivery device 200 shown has a nozzle 252. The nozzle 252 includes four grooves 253A, 253B, 254A, and 254B for teeth, a portion 256 connecting to the fluid delivery device, a portion 255 inserted into the individual's mouth, and two labial grooves 258A and 258B. During use, the individual can insert the nozzle 250 into their mouth and position their upper and lower lips on grooves 258A and 258B, respectively. Optionally, the individual can also position their upper teeth on either groove 253A or 254A and / or their lower teeth on either groove 253B or 254B. In this way, the individual's position relative to the wave generator and sensors is selectable and repeatable. In some embodiments, the triggering event that causes the authentication process to begin is the individual returning to their predefined position, as determined, for example, via sensors embedded in one or more grooves (e.g., for humidity, conductivity, and / or pressure).

[0284] Figure 3A and Figure 3B It is a fluid delivery device 300 according to some embodiments of the present invention (e.g., as described above). Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the fluid delivery device 10 described herein.

[0285] The fluid delivery device 300 includes a housing 310. The housing 310 includes an LED light 312, an airflow orifice 314, a wave sensor inlet 316, and a wave generator outlet 318. During operation, a wave exits the wave generator outlet 318, the wave sensor inlet 316 can detect the reflected wave, and the airflow orifice 314 allows fluid to flow out of the device.

[0286] Figure 3B Some components housed within a housing 310 of a fluid delivery device 300 are shown. Electronic components and control panel 320, power unit 322, wave sensor package 324, airflow duct 326, wave generator package 328, and flexible seal 330 are shown positioned within the housing 310. The flexible seal 330 may be made of a flexible material (such as silicone rubber, other types of rubber) or a flexible polymer material. In some embodiments, the flexible seal is in direct contact with the wave generator without an encapsulation in between. In some embodiments, the wave generator package is made of a flexible material (such as silicone rubber, other types of rubber) or a flexible polymer material. In some embodiments, the wave generator is exposed to a sampling space (e.g., an orifice) via a duct. In some embodiments, the wave generator is a sound generator (e.g., a loudspeaker or buzzer), and the wave sensor is an acoustic sensor (e.g., a microphone). In some embodiments, the acoustic sensor may include a muffler to reduce background noise during recording and increase the portion of recorded data typical for an individual. In some embodiments, the acoustic sensor is a contact microphone (such as a piezoelectric ceramic microphone), which is less sensitive to air vibrations compared to an air microphone. Each of the wave sensor package 324 and the wave generator package 328 may have an open end in the direction of its individual opening. Each of the packages 324, 328 may be tubular, have a tapered tube shape, or otherwise be cylindrical or irregular in shape. Each of the packages 324, 328 may be hollow and substantially completely encapsulate the wave generator or wave sensor therein. In some embodiments, each of the packages 324, 328 may contain a medium in which the wave generator and / or wave sensor is disposed.

[0287] The wave sensor package 324 houses the wave sensor and has an end terminating at or near the wave sensor inlet 316. The airflow conduit 326 connects to the fluid delivery device 300 and its reservoir (e.g., as described above). Figure 1AThe internal portion associated with the reservoir 18 described above supplies a substance (e.g., powder, vapor, and / or aerosol) to a fluid (e.g., air flowing through the device). The fluid carrying the substance is delivered to the user through the opening 327 of the airflow duct 326. The wave generator package 328 houses the wave generator (e.g., as described above in...). Figure 1A The wave generator 24 described herein terminates in a wave generator cover 330 (e.g., a flexible seal). The flexible seal 330 may cover the wave sensor positioned within the wave generator package 328 to prevent or reduce acoustic interference (e.g., noise) caused by friction. In some embodiments, the flexible seal 330 is not present. In some embodiments, the wave generator package 328, and therefore the wave sensor, is positioned at a distance away from the wave sensor inlet 316 to, for example, prevent or minimize noise. This distance may be determined based on the noise level, sensor sensitivity, and wave generator power.

[0288] In various embodiments, the fluid delivery device 300 includes a plurality of wave generators and / or a plurality of wave sensors. The plurality of wave generators may include or may be an array of wave generators. The plurality of wave sensors may include or may be an array of wave sensors. In various embodiments, some or all of the plurality of wave generators are enclosed. In various embodiments, the enclosed plurality of wave generators are housed in a single package or multiple packages. In various embodiments, some or all of the plurality of wave sensors are enclosed. In various embodiments, the enclosed plurality of wave sensors are housed in a single package or multiple packages.

[0289] In some embodiments, each package has the same or different media. In some embodiments, the package has an air media.

[0290] During operation, in some embodiments, in the case of multiple wave generators, the multiple wave generators may be used simultaneously, sequentially, or in any combination thereof. In some embodiments, multiple wave generators emit the same wave, different waves, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, multiple wave sensors receive the same wave, different waves, or any combination thereof.

[0291] Go to Figure 3C and Figure 3D , Figure 3C This is a graph showing an example of the wave received when the wave sensor is uncovered, and Figure 3D This is a graph showing an example of the wave received when the wave sensor has a cover. It can be seen that... Figure 3C The received wave has Figure 3D The received wave contains noise that is not present.

[0292] Electronic devices and control panels 320 may include, as described above Figure 1A Any element described herein.

[0293] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C It is a fluid delivery device 400 according to some embodiments of the present invention (e.g., as described above in...). Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the fluid delivery device 400 described herein. The fluid delivery device 400 includes a housing 410 and a nozzle 412. The housing includes a wave generator outlet 414, a wave sensor inlet 416, two connectors 418a and 418b, and an electrical connector 420. The nozzle 412 includes a material storage reservoir 422, an electrical connector 424, a core 425, two connectors 426a and 426b, and an airflow duct 428.

[0294] The nozzle 412 can be inserted into and removed from the housing 410. When the nozzle 412 is inserted into the housing 410, the two connectors 426a and 426b are connected to the two connectors 418a and 418b respectively, and the electrical connector 420 is connected to the electrical connector 424.

[0295] Go to Figure 4D , Figure 4D This is an example of a nozzle 450 for a fluid delivery device according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 4D The nozzle 450 for the fluid delivery device is similar to Figure 4C The difference lies in that the nozzle 450 includes a wave generator outlet 455 and a wave sensor inlet 457 within a housing, and the housing also includes an airflow duct 458. The connection between the nozzle 450 and the fluid delivery device can be electrical. In some embodiments, the connection of the nozzle 450 is a USB connection or any connection known in the art. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device can power the nozzle 450.

[0296] In some embodiments, the wave sensor and / or wave generator are integrated into the fluid delivery device 410. In some embodiments, the wave sensor 24 and / or wave generator 22 are integrated into the nozzle 450 of the fluid delivery device 410. In some embodiments, the wave sensor and / or wave generator are integrated into a probe (not shown) operable to be coupled to the fluid delivery device 410. In some embodiments, the probe includes any components of the wave sensor, wave generator, and authentication unit (such as...). Figure 1B As shown, any of element 12). In some embodiments, the probe includes or has access to an individual's registration data and is operable as an identification object. Optionally, the identification object may be coupled to one or more devices to perform authentication and receive access to the fluid delivery device 410 and / or other devices.

[0297] Figure 4E This is a schematic isometric view of a mouthpiece 410' (potentially replaceable) for attachment to a fluid delivery device, i.e., an electronic cigarette. Figure 4D Variations of nozzle 450. In some embodiments, nozzle 400' contains a reservoir or reservoir region, essentially as Figure 4D As depicted in the text.

[0298] Figure 4F This is a top view schematic diagram of a fluid delivery device, i.e., an electronic cigarette 400', according to some embodiments of the present invention, which has a mouthpiece 410' attached to it.

[0299] The electronic cigarette 400' includes a housing 401'. The housing 401' includes a wave generator tube 402a', a wave generator 402', a wave sensor tube 403a', and a wave sensor 403'. The mouthpiece 410' may include one or more substance delivery holes 410a' through which substance can be delivered to the user's mouth. The mouthpiece 410' may include a wave generator tube outlet 410b' in fluid communication with the wave generator tube 402a' and the wave generator 402'; and a wave sensor tube inlet 410c' in fluid communication with the wave sensor tube 403a' and the wave sensor 403'. In some embodiments, the wave generator 402' and the wave sensor 403' can be observed through the wave generator tube outlet 410b' and the wave sensor inlet 410c', respectively.

[0300] In some embodiments, a device for obtaining oral characteristics of an individual includes a nozzle for positioning at least a portion of the device within the individual's mouth. The nozzle may have a wave outlet for allowing waves to be emitted into the individual's mouth. In some embodiments, the nozzle or device includes a wave generator connected to the housing of the device or the nozzle and positioned relative to the wave outlet within the nozzle, such that waves generated by the wave generator are emitted through the wave outlet during operation. In some embodiments, the nozzle is provided with a connector for connecting to a wave generator included in the device to which the nozzle is attached. In some embodiments, the nozzle and the device to which it may be attached include at least one waveguide (e.g., a sound guide) for guiding waves from the wave generator to the wave outlet. Therefore, the wave generator can be placed anywhere within the device and / or nozzle, as long as the waveguide is positioned to guide sound away from the wave outlet for emission by the device.

[0301] The position of the wave outlet relative to the nozzle structure is such that positioning at least a portion of the nozzle within at least a portion of the individual's mouth results in the wave outlet being in a predetermined position relative to the individual's mouth.

[0302] Figure 5A This is a simplified block diagram of an authentication process 100, which occurs in some embodiments of an individual authentication system, such as for personal devices. According to these embodiments, the authentication process 100 includes an optional registration module 101 and a testing module 102. The personal device may include any of a personal device and / or a substance delivery device (e.g., an inhaler, electronic cigarette, liquid dispenser, spray dispenser, etc.). The personal device may be configured to deliver unregulated or regulated substances, including one or more of pharmaceuticals, drugs, nicotine, and / or tobacco.

[0303] In registration module 101, classification rules are defined based on the acquired data. At 110, a wave is emitted toward the individual's mouth and the reflection of the wave is captured. Optionally, the wave is emitted into the individual's oral cavity. Optionally, wave 110 is emitted after or in response to a triggering event. The triggering event may include one or more phases of device operation. For example, inhalation initiation (in an inhaler device), motion sensing, reaching a predefined operating state within the device (e.g., constant airflow, pressure drop below a given threshold, heating initiation, reaching a predefined temperature), and / or a certain period of time elapsed after a predefined triggering event. Optionally, the trigger is manually performed by the individual or another operator.

[0304] Optionally, 110 includes positioning the mouthpiece of the inhaler device in an individual's mouth. The mouthpiece may include a wave generator and / or a wave sensor that emits and captures reflected waves. Optionally, either the wave generator or the wave sensor is located in a portion of the inhaler other than the mouthpiece. Optionally, a single component may generate and capture waves, or may include both a wave generator and a wave sensor.

[0305] Optionally, the sound wave generator is programmed by a frequency generator to transmit repetitive sound waves with predefined amplitude, frequency, duration, and offset parameters. Optionally, similar sound waves can be generated by digital components controlled by a microcontroller unit. Optionally, to extend authentication data, waves are emitted and / or captured at multiple locations and angles within the individual's mouth. Optionally, the captured reflections can be converted into a voltage analog signal. This voltage analog signal can be captured and saved by an oscilloscope. Optionally, the captured reflections can be converted into a digital data signal and captured by a microcontroller unit.

[0306] At 120, the authentication system analyzes the captured reflections or selected portions thereof. Classification rules can be generated for the wave data samples captured at 110. In some embodiments, the analysis is based on a binary classification method. For example, the authentication system can be trained to activate a substance delivery device (e.g., an inhaler device) upon detection of a specific authorized individual. In other embodiments, this analysis is performed using a multi-class classification method, in which the authentication system is trained to activate the substance delivery device for each authenticated individual based on a defined pattern or design.

[0307] At point 130, the received authentication data and / or its analytical products are stored in the authentication system database. The stored data defines the system's classification rules. The oral characteristic can now be associated with an individual. Alternatively, the data can now be associated with an authorization instruction. The data can be stored locally, for example, in the system or device now associated with the individual. Alternatively, the data can be stored at a remote location or on a cloud server and can be used on one or more devices that may be different from the device used for registration 101. Alternatively, the data can be stored in a personal identification object (such as an RFID tag or biometric ID card). This identification object can be linked to one or more devices during authorization. Alternatively, the identification object can be linked to a new device, i.e., a device that has never been registered with the individual. Once linked to a new device, the individual can upload the data stored in the identification object and store it in the new device's memory as local registration data.

[0308] In some implementations, registration can be performed without subsequent testing. A wave is emitted to at least a portion of an individual's mouth, and at least a portion of the reflected wave from the individual is sensed by a device. Oral cavity features can then be derived based on the sensing, and indications of these features are stored in a database for any use that may or may not be performed after registration. For example, an individual may register to a database and / or device, and the stored oral cavity features may later be transferred for use by different devices and / or systems and / or transferred to additional databases. Storing oral cavity features may include, for example, storing data indicating the received wave reflections or the results of their analysis.

[0309] In test module 102, the system performs authentication based on stored authentication data and classification rules. At 140, a wave generator emits a sample wave toward the individual's mouth, and a wave sensor captures the reflection of the sample wave, essentially as described in 110. Optionally, the wave is emitted into the individual's oral cavity. Optionally, emitting the wave toward the individual's mouth generally does not include emitting the wave toward the individual's ear canal. Optionally, capturing the reflection generally does not include receiving the wave reflected from the individual's ear canal. Optionally, emitting the wave toward the individual's mouth is not accomplished by using the individual's voice.

[0310] At point 150, the authentication system analyzes sample reflection. At point 140, the data obtained is correlated with the individual and / or the individual's attributes. At point 160, the authentication system accesses the stored authentication data.

[0311] At 170, the system compares the sample wave data with a classification database and determines whether the captured reflection matches the authentication data. Optionally, if the analysis is based on a multi-class classification method, the system additionally identifies a specific individual. Optionally, the analysis is based on a binary classification method, and the system determines whether the individual matches the stored data. Optionally, any of 150, 160, and 170 can be performed locally in a single device (e.g., a personal device) or locally in one or more different devices in communication with it.

[0312] At point 180, in embodiments where the authentication system is associated with an inhaler device or other substance delivery device, the substance is delivered to the authenticated individual. In various embodiments, once authentication is successful at point 170, the system updates the individual's authentication data at point 181. This update may be performed from time to time, periodically, or upon each successful authentication. Optionally, point 181 is performed based on the similarity between the analysis at point 150 and the stored authentication data.

[0313] Optionally, for example, the wave emission, capture, and analysis can be repeated to improve system performance. Specifically, 140, 150, and 160 can be repeated more than once to reduce the possibility of incorrect determination in 170.

[0314] In some implementations of the certification process, none of the items described should include the use of an individual's inhalation patterns as certification data.

[0315] In some implementations of the certification process, none of the items described should include the use of the electrical properties of an individual's bones and / or tissues as certification data.

[0316] Figure 5B This is a flowchart of a method for authenticating an individual to deliver a substance to that individual, according to some embodiments of the present invention. The method involves emitting a wave (e.g., via as described above) into at least a portion of the individual's mouth. Figure 1A The wave generator 22 described herein generates (510).

[0317] The method also involves receiving reflected waves (e.g., via as described above in...) Figure 1AThe sensor 24 described herein, wherein the reflected wave comprises at least a portion of the reflected wave from the individual, or both (520). For example, the transmission (510) may be continuous, while the reception (520) is performed intermittently only for a portion of the received wave. In some such embodiments, the transmission may comprise multiple repeated transmissions of the same wave pattern, and optionally, the reception may be timed to occur simultaneously in each repetition.

[0318] The method also involves processing the reflected waves (530). In some embodiments, all waves received in 520 are used in the processing. In some embodiments, only a portion of the waves received in 520 are used in the processing. For example, transmission (510) and reception (520) may be continuous, while processing (53) is performed intermittently only for a portion of the received waves. In some such embodiments, transmission may include multiple repeated transmissions of the same wave pattern, and optionally, processing is performed only for the waves received simultaneously in each repetition.

[0319] Processing reflected waves may involve determining the characteristics of an individual and / or personal data associated with that individual (e.g., identification of the nasal cavity or tympanic cavity). In some embodiments, the processed wave can be analyzed by comparing it with stored characteristics of individuals previously registered and / or registered as authorized recipients of the substance (e.g., dates of birth and ages registered in a pharmacy database after a doctor sends a prescription to the pharmacy and / or previously verified dates of birth and ages, identity information stored in an individual database).

[0320] In some implementations, reflected waves are analyzed to determine whether an individual is a child or an adult. For example, a child could be an individual under 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, or 21 years of age. An adult could be an individual over 16, 18, 21, 25, or 30 years of age. In these implementations, erroneous determinations may be made, such as the system identifying an adult as a child (or not identifying them as an adult), or vice versa. In such cases, if an incorrect identification prevents an authorized individual from using the device (e.g., an adult is prohibited from smoking because they were not identified as an adult), that individual may be able to resume use of alternative identification methods. For example, an individual could register on their device under conditions that allow for child / adult identification, such as presenting valid identification documents and proof of age at a point of sale. In such cases, the seller may have the necessary permissions and / or tools (software, hardware, and / or passwords) to enable registration for any individual. In some implementations, an individual's age and / or authorization, along with their oral characteristics, are recorded on a mobile device (e.g., a token), which can be used for registration on the device as a cover for child / adult identification, for example, by wirelessly transmitting information between the mobile device and a controller associated with the device or purpose requiring age identification (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi, and / or RFID, etc.). The storage of this data and / or communication may be encrypted to prevent age identification from being easily overridden by unauthorized individuals.

[0321] Wave characteristics can be obtained in advance during the registration process, where authorized individuals use authentication modules (such as...) Figure 1BThe authentication module 12) stores data representing wave reflections as features for future comparison with wave reflections obtained during use of devices associated with the stored data or with access to the data. During registration, an individual's wave features may be associated with an authorization instruction and / or the identity of the authorized individual and recorded in memory. In some embodiments, a security token is required during the registration process. In some embodiments, the registration process occurs only once. In various embodiments, reflected waves may be influenced by one or more features of the current individual's mouth (e.g., oral cavity, larynx, pharynx, vocal cords, throat, tongue, and / or other parts of the oral cavity), and transient conditions such as the presence of something in the mouth, such as chewing gum, food residue, a mouthpiece, throat lozenges, and / or candy. Reflected waves may be influenced by the position of the tongue or the position and orientation of fluid delivery devices (particularly wave generators and / or wave sensors), and the current individual's current activity (e.g., inhalation, exhalation, physical activity, rest, etc.). When used during inhalation, the acquired reflexes may be correlated with a specific time point during inhalation, which may be related to changes in the oral cavity that typically occur during use of the inhalation device, and the analysis may take such timing into account. When used during exhalation, the acquired reflexes may be correlated with a specific time point during exhalation, which may be related to changes in the oral cavity that typically occur during exhalation, and the analysis may take such timing into account.

[0322] In some embodiments, the reflected wave is normalized relative to a predetermined reference wave signal of ambient sound. In some embodiments, noise, or any combination thereof, is filtered out (or substantially filtered out), eliminated (or substantially eliminated) from the reflected wave. In some embodiments, the noise is ambient noise. In some embodiments, the portion of the received wave below a predefined threshold is filtered out. In some embodiments, the predefined threshold is between -6 dB and -14 dB. In some embodiments, the predefined threshold is between -7 dB and -12 dB, or even between -9 dB and -12 dB. In some embodiments, the predefined threshold is between -6 dB and -8 dB.

[0323] In some embodiments, the reference wave signal is measured at the factory (and thereafter used as described above). In some embodiments, the reference wave signal is measured by the individual before use, outside the individual's mouth, and / or occasionally (e.g., when the fluid delivery device is turned on).

[0324] In some embodiments, a reference wave signal is measured in real time during the use of the fluid delivery device. For example, two wave sensors (e.g., microphones) can be used to sense reflections, and the differences between the sensed reflections caused by their different physical locations are sufficient to clear noise. In some embodiments, the reference wave signal is measured in real time with an undefined wave pattern (e.g., white noise, airflow sound, etc.) using two wave sensors (e.g., microphones). In some embodiments, the reference wave signal is predefined, and information about the emission is used to clear reflection data. In some embodiments, one wave sensor is configured to receive the emission, while the other wave sensor is configured to receive the reflection (e.g., when the wave is an electromagnetic wave).

[0325] The method also involves determining whether the individual is an authorized individual (540). In some embodiments, the individual is identified as an authorized individual based on the processed reflected wave. In some embodiments, additional identification data is used in conjunction with the received wave to determine whether the individual is an authorized individual. For example, fingerprints, inhalation patterns, voice, retinal scans, breathing patterns, facial recognition, and / or any biometric data. The biometric data may include gender, race, geographic origin, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the additional identification information includes the individual's history of use, password, and / or response to one or more security questions. In some embodiments, the individual's probable age is determined based on the received wave to determine whether the individual is authorized. For example, it may be desirable to restrict access to the fluid delivery device to individuals above an age threshold. For example, the determination may include determining that the individual is above a first threshold and / or the individual is not below a second threshold. In some embodiments, the first threshold and the second threshold are the same. In some embodiments, machine learning algorithms are used for authentication. In some embodiments, machine learning sorting algorithms are used for age determination.

[0326] If the individual is authorized, the authentication is successful (e.g., valid) and the individual can be delivered the substance (560). If the individual is not authorized, the authentication is unsuccessful (e.g., invalid) and the individual is not delivered the substance (570).

[0327] In some implementations, if authentication fails, the fluid delivery device 10 is locked for a certain period of time and / or until the device is unlocked (e.g., at a point of sale). For example, multiple authentication failures (e.g., 3 or more or 5 or more) result in the device being locked for a certain period of time. In some implementations, multiple authentication failures (e.g., 3 or more or 5 or more) only result in the device being locked for a certain period of time if they occur within a predefined time period (e.g., within 1 minute or 30 seconds).

[0328] Locking the device may involve turning off the power, closing the gas flow valve, disconnecting the heating circuit, and / or shutting off barriers (e.g., plugs or valves) that prevent the supply of dose units to the delivery line.

[0329] In various implementations, supply denial may involve avoiding turning on the power, avoiding opening the gas flow valve, avoiding switching the heating circuit to a closed circuit, and / or opening barriers (e.g., plugs or valves) that allow the dose unit to be supplied to the delivery line.

[0330] In some implementations, the age sorter can determine an individual's age once the individual is authorized. In some implementations, age determination is limited to confirming that the individual is above a first age threshold and / or not below a second age threshold, wherein the second age threshold is optionally lower than the first age threshold.

[0331] For example, go to Figure 5C , Figure 5C This is a flowchart of a method for authenticating an individual to deliver a substance to that individual, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 5C As shown, 510 to 540 and 560 are related to Figure 5B Same, however, Figure 5B The 550 in the text was replaced with something like... Figure 5C As shown in 570 and 580. In these embodiments, if the certification is valid, the method involves determining whether an individual meets the age limit (570) based on the analysis of the reflected waves. This age limit may be entered by the user, set by a pharmacist, set by the manufacturer, determined based on the type of device used, or otherwise set.

[0332] If an individual does not meet the age limit, the method involves rejecting the individual (560). If the individual does meet the age limit, the method includes authorizing the individual (580). For example, each authentication of the method may occur more than once during the use event to increase blocking and / or prevent the device from being passed to an unauthorized user after authentication.

[0333] In some implementation schemes, Figure 5C The method shown provides an additional layer of protection against age-related device abuse. Therefore, even if a false identity authorization is issued, the individual's age is checked again, and individuals who do not meet the age restrictions are rejected or blocked.

[0334] In some implementations of the authentication method, wave reflection data sampled from an individual's mouth is compared and analyzed with a database containing data on restricted individuals. The individual is only permitted permission if they are found to be unrestricted.

[0335] In some implementations, determining whether an individual is restricted is done after their identity has been authenticated. In other implementations, determining whether an individual is restricted can be supplementary to identity authentication. Once an individual is authorized, the system analyzes their wave reflection data and compares it to a database of restricted individuals. If the individual is found to be unrestricted, then the individual is granted permission.

[0336] In some implementations, determining whether an individual is restricted is an alternative to identity authentication. In some implementations, the system may determine that an individual's identity has not been authenticated. An alternative authorization path might be to check whether the individual is restricted and, if found to be unrestricted, to authorize the individual.

[0337] In some implementations, authorization of adult individuals (570) may have been prevented, making it possible to use only... Figure 5B This method authenticates the user's identity. A potential advantage of this approach is that the fluid delivery device uses less energy for authentication. Another potential advantage is for adults who are misidentified by the age sorter, as well as younger individuals that the age sorter should reject. In both cases, age verification may not be necessary.

[0338] In some implementations, determining whether an individual is restricted can be supplementary to age identification and / or individual authorization. For example, in Figure 5D In this process, instead of authorizing individual registration, the system checks an individual's age, and if the individual passes the age check (or authorization check), it also checks whether the individual is on a restricted list. For example, going to... Figure 5D , Figure 5D This is a flowchart of a method for authenticating an individual to deliver a substance to that individual, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 5D As shown, 510 to 530 and Figure 5B Same, however Figure 5B 540 and 550 in the text are replaced with, for example Figure 5D As shown in 590, 591, and 592. In these embodiments, the method involves determining whether an individual meets one or more age restrictions based on the analysis of reflected waves (590). If the individual does not meet the age restrictions (or if he / she is not identified as an authorized user), the individual is rejected (560).

[0339] If an individual does indeed meet the age restrictions (or if he is identified as an authorized user), the individual is also checked to determine if he is on a restricted access list (591). This restricted access list may be entered / updated by the user, may be based on past fraudulent activity, and may be entered by a pharmacist, manufacturer, or doctor, or any combination thereof, or otherwise.

[0340] If the individual is on the restricted access list, then the individual is denied access (560). If the individual is not on the restricted access list, then the individual is granted access (592).

[0341] In some implementation schemes, Figure 5D This method provides an additional layer of protection against device abuse. Accordingly, even if a false identity authorization or age verification is issued, the individual will be checked again to see if they are classified as a restricted individual, and the restricted individual will be rejected or blocked.

[0342] Optionally, a database of restricted and / or permitted users is created by collecting individuals' oral characteristics and storing them separately in association with restriction and / or permission data. For example, parents might store their child's oral characteristics on their fluid delivery device as a restricted individual to ensure that the child cannot use the parent's device even if the child is mistakenly identified as an adult. In some embodiments, youth may opt to register as adults in the database so that if their oral characteristics cannot be correctly identified through age verification, they will be identified as permitted individuals via the database, and their presence in the database will override the adult's verbal verification. In some embodiments, youth can register by presenting proof of age at the point of sale.

[0343] In some implementations, the device (such as Figure 1A The device 52 includes a communication unit for retrieving data from a database of licensed individuals and / or a database of restricted individuals. In some embodiments, the database or a portion thereof (e.g., based on geographic relevance) is stored locally in the device. Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C In any of the methods illustrated herein, the database can be used to override any other form of authentication.

[0344] Figure 6A This is a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) plot that visualizes the possible differences between received waves from eight different individuals. Results were collected in experiments conducted to test several implementations of the authentication system.

[0345] Acoustic signal samples were taken from eight (8) different individuals. These individuals were instructed to insert the probe into their mouths and avoid moving it. The probe consisted of a wave generator and a wave sensor that received the reflected waves. The wave generator was a 46-ohm receiver, a balanced armature loudspeaker from 20 Hz to 8.8 kHz, with a top round of 105 dB. The wave sensor was an I2S microelectromechanical microphone, omnidirectional, with a range of -26 dB @ 94 dB SPL.

[0346] A chirp of 3200-9200Hz linear frequency modulation (LFM) sound waves was emitted into the mouths of the individuals. The chirp consisted of three wave samples, each lasting 50 milliseconds, with a 50-millisecond pause in between. Therefore, the entire chirp lasted 250 milliseconds. With 20 chirps, 60 samples were drawn from each of the eight individuals.

[0347] The processor records the received wave reflections and encodes and stores the received waves in a database using a digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm. Reference chirps of 3200-9200Hz LFM sound wave samples are emitted into the surrounding area and recorded near and at the same locations as individual samples. The chirp consists of three wave samples, each lasting 50 milliseconds with a 50-millisecond pause in between. One of the three reference samples is shown on the curve. Figure 6C and 6D It is shown in the image, and it represents ambient sound.

[0348] During data processing, samples are cleaned and normalized relative to a reference wave. The data is then fed into a randomized tree-based artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm. The system analyzes the data, compares samples, and provides a multidimensional value for each sample reflecting its degree of difference relative to other samples. The algorithm uses a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) in... Figure 6A The analysis is visualized on the graph shown.

[0349] Figure 6A Each symbol shown on the graph represents a single sample. After the results are received, each sample on the graph is assigned a symbol associated with its respective individual. For example, a circle symbol represents the wave reflection received during transmission to individual A_0, a square symbol represents the wave reflection received from individual A_1, and so on. Figure 6A As can be seen, the AI ​​algorithm arranges the received waves into different clusters, each containing samples from the same individual. The results show that the system can distinguish individuals based on wave reflections received from their mouths. Figure 6B The image depicts the area marked by the dashed line 601. Figure 6A The magnified portion is shown to display partial results at a higher resolution. As can be seen, the two clusters 600 of the circular symbols represent wave reflections taken from the mouth of individual A_0, while the three clusters 700 of the inverted triangle represent wave reflections taken from the mouth of individual A_5. This two-dimensional representation represents a portion of the data points analyzed in this example and shows that the differences between different individuals are significantly greater than the differences between samples taken from the same individual.

[0350] Figure 7It is a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) curve that visualizes the possible differences between waves received from an individual's mouth, based on some implementation schemes of authentication systems and methods, while the probe is positioned relative to the individual's mouth at various different locations.

[0351] These results were collected in an experiment designed to test the impact of using probes to sample individuals' mouths at different locations on data analysis.

[0352] Acoustic signal samples were taken from individual individuals at different locations. Individuals were instructed to insert the probe into different locations in their mouths, such as... Figure 7 As detailed in the graph illustration, movement should be avoided during sampling.

[0353] The probe consists of a sound wave generator and a sensor that receives reflected waves. The wave generator is a 46-ohm receiver with a balanced armature loudspeaker operating from 20Hz to 8.8kHz and a top circle of 105dB. The wave sensor is an I2S microelectromechanical microphone, omnidirectional, with a range of -26dB to 94dB SPL.

[0354] A chirp of 3200-9200Hz linear frequency modulation (LFM) sound waves was emitted into the individual's mouth. The chirp consisted of three wave samples, each lasting 50 milliseconds, with a 50-millisecond pause in between. Therefore, the entire chirp lasted 250 milliseconds. With 20 chirps, 60 samples were extracted during each test location.

[0355] The processor records the received wave reflections and encodes them using digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms, storing the encoded waves in a database. A reference wave represents ambient sound and is recorded near the individual's mouth in a manner similar to recording a reference chirp, such as in... Figure 6A , Figure 6C and Figure 6D As detailed in the experimental description.

[0356] During data processing, samples are cleaned and normalized relative to a reference wave. The data is then fed into a randomized tree-based artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm. The system analyzes the data, compares samples, and provides a multidimensional value for each sample reflecting its degree of difference relative to other samples. The algorithm uses a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) in... Figure 7 The analysis is visualized on the graph shown.

[0357] Figure 7Each point shown on the graph represents a single sample. After the results are received, each sample on the graph is assigned a symbol based on the position of the probe in the individual's mouth (during which it was acquired). For example, a plus sign indicates a wave reflection received while the probe is positioned to the left of the individual's mouth, a square sign indicates a wave reflection received while the probe is positioned in the individual's mouth without touching the lips, and so on.

[0358] like Figure 7 As can be seen, the AI ​​algorithm arranges the received waves into different clusters, with each cluster containing samples from the same probe location. The results indicate that the probe location affects the analysis of the samples and how the algorithm classifies them.

[0359] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) curve that visualizes the possible differences between adults and children based on the received wave reflections, where... Figure 8B yes Figure 8A The magnified portion is marked by the dashed rectangle 801. The results shown were collected in an experiment designed to test several implementations of the authentication system and its ability to distinguish between adults and children based on the reflection of waves emitted into their mouths.

[0360] Acoustic signal samples were taken from 66 subjects, including 28 adults and 38 children. Adults were defined as being 25 years of age or older, and children as being under 15 years of age. Subjects were instructed to insert the probe into their mouths and avoid moving it during sampling.

[0361] The probe consists of a sound wave generator and a sensor that receives reflected waves. The wave generator is a 46-ohm receiver with a balanced armature loudspeaker operating from 20Hz to 8.8kHz and a top circle of 105dB. The wave sensor is an I2S microelectromechanical microphone, omnidirectional, with a range of -26dB to 94dB SPL.

[0362] A chirp of 3200-9200Hz linear frequency modulation (LFM) sound waves was emitted into the mouth of an individual. The chirp consisted of three wave samples, each lasting 50 milliseconds, with a 50-millisecond pause between each sample. Therefore, the entire chirp lasted 250 milliseconds. Five chirps were emitted, resulting in 15 samples taken from each individual.

[0363] The processor records the received wave reflections and encodes them using digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms, storing the encoded waves in a database. A reference wave represents ambient sound and is recorded near the individual's mouth in a manner similar to recording a reference chirp, such as in... Figure 6A , Figure 6C and Figure 6D As detailed in the experimental description.

[0364] During data processing, the samples were cleaned and normalized relative to a reference wave. As an initial training phase, data associated with 49 randomly selected subjects were input into the system. Each subject was indicated to the system as an adult / child.

[0365] In the next phase, the system analyzed the remaining 17 samples, for which no indication was given. The algorithm was set up to determine whether each sample belonged to an adult or a child. The system analyzed the data, compared samples, and provided a multidimensional value for each sample reflecting the degree of difference between that sample and the other samples. The algorithm used a T-distributed random neighborhood embedding (t-SNE) in... Figure 8A The analysis is visualized on the graph shown.

[0366] Figure 8A Each label shown in the graph represents a single sample. The algorithm classifies each sample as either an adult or a teenager (child). Samples are labeled twice. Stars are used to mark reflections obtained from teenagers (children), while squares are for adults. Performance symbols are marked around the classification symbols. Success is marked with a circle, indicating that the algorithm classified a child as a child or an adult as an adult. Failure is marked with an X-shaped symbol, indicating that the algorithm classified a child as an adult or an adult as a child. Figure 8A A portion of the illustrations shown in Figure 8B The regions are marked with dashed rectangles at higher resolution. As you can see, markers 800 are taken from samples of correctly identified (circles) teenagers (stars), while markers 900 are taken from samples of correctly identified (circles) adults (squares). Mark 804 depicts a misidentification by the algorithm, where an adult (square) was not identified as an adult (marked with an X). Figure 8A In the example shown, the model was able to distinguish between children and adults with 76.3% accuracy. When using a learning algorithm, accuracy is expected to increase with the number of samples. Furthermore, by changing the cutoff value, the number of false positives can be reduced, but at the cost of increasing false negatives, and vice versa.

[0367] As described above, in some implementations, the determination of an adult or child can be provided by the probability of accuracy, for example, based on the percentage level (%) recorded in the system as characterizing the wave trends and characteristics of a child or an adult, the determination of the subject can be that the probability of the subject being a child is 75%.

[0368] In some implementations, machine learning algorithms can be trained to improve the accuracy and efficiency of age and / or other identity criteria identification. Useful examples of age restriction criteria may help prevent children from using tobacco and / or nicotine, as well as prevent minors or children from using medical devices.

[0369] In some implementations, it may be permissible for a group of people to use the same device (e.g., a fluid delivery device, such as those described above). Figure 1A The fluid delivery device 10 described herein, or a group of devices (e.g., a patient device in a hospital setting or for several members of the same family). The processor may be configured to allow monitoring of usage for each individual. In some embodiments, the same device, based on input from the device, can establish usage protocols (e.g., substance administration) associated with each authorized individual. In some embodiments, based on input from an authentication module, the same device may be configured to facilitate the parallel or different administration of the same or different substances to a group of authorized individuals at different times and / or doses. In some embodiments, the same device may be used by a group of people, such as several members of a family; or several patients in a hospital.

[0370] Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C These are schematic diagrams of a fluid delivery device, an electronic cigarette 900, a mouthpiece 910, and a fluid delivery device with the mouthpiece positioned on the fluid delivery device for use, according to some embodiments of the present invention. Optionally, the mouthpiece 910 is replaceable.

[0371] The electronic cigarette 900 includes a housing 901 with a protrusion 917 and is configured to receive a mouthpiece 910. The housing 901 includes a two-position switch 905 and a cavity 904. The protrusion 917 of the housing 901 includes a wave generator outlet 902, a wave sensor inlet 903, and a sensor 906. The wave generator outlet 902 and the wave sensor inlet 903 are respectively connected to a wave generator and a wave sensor (not shown) in the electronic cigarette 900. In some embodiments, the wave generator and / or the wave sensor include a wave generator outlet 902 and a wave sensor inlet 903, respectively. The mouthpiece 910 includes a filter 911, a reservoir 912, and an activator 916.

[0372] The electronic cigarette 900 may also include one or more processors, wave generators / wave sensors to allow the electronic cigarette to perform the methods described above (e.g., communicating with the Internet, transmitting sensor data, processing sensor data, performing authentication determination, and as described above in examples). Figures 5A to 5D Other methods / method steps described herein).

[0373] During operation, the mouthpiece 910 is inserted into the cavity 904 and positioned to contact the protrusion 917, such that the reservoir is at least partially connected in series with the heating blade (not shown) positioned within the cavity 904. In some embodiments, when the mouthpiece 910 is in place, the sensor 906 on the protrusion 917 contacts the activator 916 on the mouthpiece. This contact may be a prerequisite for the operation of the electronic cigarette 900.

[0374] During use, an individual can activate the electronic cigarette 900 by pressing a two-position switch 905, thereby supplying power to the heated blades and the wave generator associated with the outlet 902 and / or the wave sensor associated with the inlet 903. The individual can position the protrusion 917, along with the filter 911 of the mouthpiece 910, in or near their mouth to allow the electronic cigarette 900 to perform one or more of the registration / certification / age sorting / access granting processes substantially as described above. Once access is granted, heating of the reservoir (e.g., tobacco) (e.g., via the blades) may allow temperatures exceeding a threshold and / or allow substances to flow to the individual via inhaled air.

[0375] Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C , Figure 10D and Figure 10E These are schematic diagrams of a fluid delivery device according to some embodiments of the present invention, an electronic cigarette 1000, a mouthpiece 1100 (optionally a replaceable mouthpiece), and a fluid delivery device with the mouthpiece positioned on the fluid delivery device for use, as well as a longitudinal cross-section of the fluid delivery device.

[0376] The electronic cigarette 1000 includes a housing 1010 and is configured to receive a mouthpiece 1100. The housing 1010 includes a two-position switch 905, a cavity 1040, and a protrusion including a wave generator outlet 902, a wave sensor inlet 903, a sensor 1060, and a heating blade 1012. The wave generator outlet 902 and the wave sensor inlet 903 are respectively connected to a wave generator and a wave sensor (not shown) in the electronic cigarette 900. In some embodiments, the wave generator and / or the wave sensor includes a wave generator outlet 902 and a wave sensor inlet 903, respectively. The mouthpiece 1100 includes a filter 1101, a reservoir 1102, and a blade cavity 1103.

[0377] The electronic cigarette 1000 may also include one or more processors, wave generators / wave sensors to allow the electronic cigarette to perform the methods described above (e.g., communicating with the Internet, transmitting sensor data, processing sensor data, performing authentication determination, and as described above in examples). Figures 5A to 5D Other methods / method steps described herein).

[0378] During operation, nozzle 1100 is inserted into cavity 1040 and connected in series with a structure including heating blade 1012. In some embodiments, this results in sensor 1060 being positioned within blade cavity 1103 of nozzle 1100 and entering activator (such as...) Figure 9B The activator 916 is located on the inner wall of the nozzle 1100 within the blade cavity 1103.

[0379] During use, an individual can activate the electronic cigarette 1000 by pressing a two-position switch 905, thereby supplying power to the heated blade 1012 and the wave generator outlet 902 and / or the wave sensor inlet 903. The individual can position the mouthpiece 1100 in or near their mouth to allow the electronic cigarette 1000 to perform one or more of the following: registration / authentication / age sorting / access, substantially as described above. Once access is granted, heating of the reservoir (e.g., tobacco) (e.g., via the blade) may allow temperatures exceeding a threshold and / or allow substances to flow to the individual via inhaled air.

[0380] In some embodiments, the electronic cigarette 1000 and the mouthpiece 1100 are, or in proportion to, such that when the mouthpiece 1100 is in the cavity 1040, the wave generator outlet 902 and the wave sensor inlet 903 are adjacent to the end of the replaceable mouthpiece 1100, such as... Figure 10C As shown. In some embodiments, the electronic cigarette 1000 and the mouthpiece 1100 are or are proportionally positioned such that when the mouthpiece 1100 is in the cavity 1040, the wave generator outlet 902 and the wave sensor inlet 903 are positioned within the blade cavity 1103 such that they are not adjacent to the end of the electronic cigarette 1000, as shown. Figure 10D As shown. In such embodiments, a portion of nozzle 1100 (e.g., filter 1101) may serve as an encapsulation for one or more of wave generator outlet 902 and wave sensor inlet 903. In some embodiments (not shown), this portion of nozzle 1100 contains one or more media within blade cavity 1103. In some embodiments, blade cavity 1103 includes a separating member extending along the cavity from the free edge of filter 1101 to the locations of wave generator 902 and wave sensor inlet 903, thereby providing separate encapsulation for each of them. Optionally, a groove between wave generator 902 and wave sensor inlet 903 is configured to engage the edge of the separating member.

[0381] Go to Figure 10EThe figure shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view along line AA of the electronic cigarette 1000. A blade 1102 is configured to be inserted into the mouthpiece 1100. In various embodiments, the blade 1102 includes a thermally conductive portion 1112 (e.g., containing a resistive material, such as a metal, that is heated by a driving current). As shown, in use, the thermally conductive portion 1112 can be inserted into a reservoir 1101 portion of the mouthpiece 1100. In some embodiments, the blade 1102 includes a waveguide (e.g., an acoustic guide) 1041 and a receiver waveguide 1042 formed within the blade body. Waveguides 1041 and 1042 are respectively coupled to a wave generator 902 and a sensor 903 at their first ends. Waveguides 1041 and 1042 have a wave outlet and a wave inlet, respectively, at their second ends, leading into the blade cavity 1103 of the mouthpiece 1100. The blade cavity 1103 optionally provides a path for wave propagation for a cylindrical element or otherwise, so as to be emitted into the mouth of an individual and, once positioned in their mouth, to sense reflections from the individual. In the example shown, the blade 1102 extends beyond the end of the reservoir 1101, partially extending into the blade cavity 1103. In some embodiments (such as, for example...) Figures 10A to 10E As depicted in the figure, blade 1102 extends beyond the end of reservoir 1101, substantially reaching the end of nozzle 1100. As shown, waveguides 1041 and 1042 are separated by blade septum 1043, which provides mechanical support and durability to allow replacement of nozzle 1100 without damaging blade 1012 or any part thereof.

[0382] In some respiratory-actuated inhalation devices, a certain time interval typically exists between the start of inhalation and substance delivery. During this time interval, authentication can be performed until vaporization begins. In some embodiments of respiratory-actuated thermal inhalation devices, heating begins after a certain delay following the start of inhalation. Authentication may occur during this delay, allowing heating to exceed a predefined threshold (e.g., the vaporization temperature of the substance to be delivered) only if the individual is authenticated. In some embodiments, wave emission and reflection capture occur at least once between the start of inhalation and the start of substance delivery, such as two or more, five or more, seven or more, or even ten or more. In some embodiments, the number of authentication iterations (emission / reflection cycles) is between 1 and 7 or even between 1 and 5.

[0383] In some embodiments, the wave sensor inlet 903 and / or the wave generator outlet 902 are integrated into the fluid delivery device 900 or 1000. In some embodiments, the wave sensor inlet 903 and / or the wave generator outlet 902 are integrated into the nozzle 1100 of the fluid delivery device 900 or 1000. In some embodiments, the wave sensor 903 and / or the wave generator 902 are integrated into a probe (not shown) operable to be coupled to the fluid delivery device 900 or 1000. In some embodiments, the probe includes the wave sensor 903, the wave generator 902, and any components of the authentication unit (such as...). Figure 1B As described herein, any of the components numbered 12). In some embodiments, the probe includes or has access to an individual's registration data and is operable to identify an object. Optionally, the identified object may be coupled to one or more devices to perform authentication and receive access to the fluid delivery device 900 or 1000 and / or other devices.

[0384] Experiment 1:

[0385] Inhalation device identification tests were conducted on thirteen (13) individuals. The individuals were seated in a comfortable, constant posture with the nozzle in their mouths in an inhalation position. They were instructed to avoid significant changes in facial expression and mouth movements. Sine wave pulses were generated at an amplitude of 0.5 [V]p2p, a offset of 0.5 [V], and a frequency of 5 [kHz], and sent to a buzzer for 5 [ms], or 25 cycles. Once the microphone analog output exceeded a certain trigger value, an oscilloscope recorded a total data window of 20 [ms] for the period before and after the trigger value exceeded 7 [ms] and 13 [ms]. Each recording was a sample. The oscilloscope data output was saved as a .CSV file for each sample. Each sample contained approximately 2000 data points. The samples were divided into several classes. Each class represented a specific individual. Fifty samples were drawn from each class.

[0386] The data was prepared, classified, and normalized for training and testing in eight different models. Preparation included transformation, background noise removal, and visualization of the recorded waves. Results showed that better results were obtained by filtering almost all of the emitted wave source portions and comparing only the echo portions (which exhibited greater variability). For this purpose, 7 ms before the trigger value and 4.5 ms of the generated 5 ms wave were removed from the data file. What remained for analysis was almost entirely pure echo phenomena. Figures 11A to 11C Some visualizations are shown in the example below. Figure 11A and Figure 11B Visualizations of sample sound waves generated in subject experiments with the emitted wave source portion filtered (11A) and without the emitted wave source portion filtered (11B). Figure 11CThis is a visualization of the Mel frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCCs) of sample acoustic waves generated in subject experiments, applicable to some of the test methods listed below.

[0387] The data is divided into two parts: a 75% random portion is defined as the training set, and a 25% random portion is defined as the test set. The data is randomized before the split to prevent bias.

[0388] The following eight common classification algorithms were tested: Logistic Regression; Support Vector Classification (SVC); K-Nearest Neighbors Classifier; Decision Tree Classifier; Extremely Random Tree Classifier; Random Forest Classifier; and Multilayer Perceptron Classifier (MLP) Neural Network Classifier.

[0389] The system is trained (registered) on each of the eight classifiers using the training set. During training, the system is fed the true classification of each sample to determine the threshold classification rules.

[0390] The test set is used to measure the performance of each classifier. Success is categorized based on the model's accuracy, precision, recall, and F-1 score. The two highest-performing algorithms have been identified as the Extremely Random Tree Classifier and the MLP Neural Network Classifier. Figure 11D The image shows an example comparing the accuracy of eight algorithms based on sample testing. The best results are shown in the following scores:

[0391] The average precision obtained from the experiment is: 0.8276064213564213;

[0392] Average recall rate: 0.833333333333334; and

[0393] Average F1 score: 0.8268792897275871.

[0394] The authentication and / or identification methods and systems described herein (such as, for example) Figure 1A (As shown) can be used in conjunction with devices that are not necessarily fluid delivery devices.

[0395] For example, identification methods and systems can be used in conjunction with a breathalyzer (e.g., a device that receives exhaled air from an individual and detects the presence of substances in the exhaled air). Typically, a breathalyzer is used to estimate the blood alcohol content of an exhaling individual, thereby determining whether he / she has legally consumed alcohol or is capable of performing tasks such as driving a motor vehicle. Sometimes, the car cannot be driven (e.g., shifting gears or turning on the ignition switch), so the car can only be unlocked after the breathalyzer confirms that the exhaling individual is legally sober. In some embodiments of the invention, to ensure that the breathalyzer estimates the blood alcohol of the appropriate individual, the individual can be registered on the breathalyzer using the system and methods described above. Subsequently, unlocking the car may require wave authentication of exhaling individuals who are together or very close, which would not allow the breathalyzer to be transferred to a second individual after authorization and before exhalation. In some embodiments, moving or repositioning the breathalyzer from the location or position where authorization occurred by a distance greater than a predefined minimum range would prevent successful unlocking and / or may require repeated authentication and analysis of the exhaled air.

[0396] In some implementations, the authentication and / or identification methods and systems described herein (such as, for example) Figure 1A The device used in combination (shown) is an oral thermometer comprising a wave generator and a wave sensor. Individuals can register on a hospital management system. Subsequently, when an individual's body temperature is measured using the thermometer, the individual's oral characteristics can be simultaneously acquired and authenticated. Optionally, this authentication automatically provides healthcare professionals with confirmation of the individual's identity and / or access to the individual's hospital records. Optionally, based on authentication, the measured temperature and other individual attributes are automatically recorded in a file.

[0397] In some embodiments, a replaceable nozzle (e.g., a replaceable nozzle 450 as described above in Figure 4) or a wave-transparent protective cap (e.g., an oral thermometer probe cap) is provided for each individual. In some embodiments, the same device is used by multiple authorized individuals. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device or system includes: a centralized inhalation mechanism (e.g., designed for use in a hospital (e.g., an emergency room or a group of rooms)) connected to a delivery catheter at each bedside; and a centralized device that can be configured to administer different substances (e.g., vaporized substances) based on a personal prescription for each authorized individual.

[0398] In some implementations, an authentication module is included (e.g., as described above). Figure 1B The fluid delivery device of the authentication module 12 described herein is configured to allow different individuals to receive different substances by identifying and / or authenticating authorized individuals from a set of authorized individuals and / or causing the fluid delivery device to operate under a specific operating protocol prescribed for that individual.

[0399] In some implementations, authentication is performed on each individual in a group of individuals and / or the fluid delivery device is activated in a defined pattern for each authenticated individual in the group. In some implementations, the fluid delivery device is configured to authenticate each individual individually (e.g., by binary classification). In some implementations, when an individual intends to use a fluid delivery device that requires authentication, the individual needs to make a declaration about their identity and / or the fluid delivery device verifies that declaration using a binary approach prior to authorized use.

[0400] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device limits a specific total dose for each treatment session and / or each day. Such limits may be based on, for example, an individual's age, an individual's input, and / or a specific prescription, to prevent misuse by the individual holding the prescription (e.g., even unintentional). In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device limits a specific total dose for each treatment session or each day based on individual-defined conditions (e.g., when an authorized individual wants to reduce their personal dose below their personally prescribed dose). In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device prevents the administration of an excessive (e.g., overdose) substance by limiting a specific total dose inhaled or over a period of time based on one or a combination of prior use, medical data, professional and / or other instructions or advice. In some embodiments, the device provides notification to the individual when they approach and / or exceed a predetermined dose. This notification may be provided, for example, by emitting a sound into their mouth. Optionally, the volume of the sound is such that the individual can hear it, but no one else nearby or even touching their head can hear it. The volume may be defined in advance and / or in real-time based on any of the frequency of the emitted wave, the individual's attributes, and ambient noise. In some embodiments, the attributes of the sound may be selected or adjusted by the individual. Optionally, the sound changes as the individual continues to inhale the substance. For example, one or more of the following may increase: sound periodicity (from a single sharp beep to a series of sharp beeps, optionally up to a constant sound), volume (from a sound that is barely audible to the individual to a sound that is audible to others), and / or pitch.

[0401] In some embodiments, the fluid delivery device emits a sound once or multiple times in the individual's mouth during inhalation. Such sounds can be selected by the individual to be pleasant (as part of their user experience) and / or unpleasant in order to reduce use (e.g., smoking). The sounds may include short melodies or recorded messages. In some embodiments, the sound changes from pleasant to unpleasant as the delivered dose of the substance approaches or exceeds a predetermined amount.

[0402] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of a system 1200 for obtaining oral characteristics of an individual and for authenticating at least one device using those oral characteristics, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0403] System 1200 may include probe 1210. Probe 1210 may include wave generator 1212 and wave sensor 1214. Wave generator 1212 may emit waves toward an individual and wave sensor 1214 may detect at least a portion of the reflected waves from the individual (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The above).

[0404] In some implementations, probe 1210 includes processor 1216. Processor 1216 can extract and record an individual's oral cavity features from at least a portion of the reflected waves of the received wave, and register those features (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The oral cavity feature may be associated with one or more of the following indications: individual personal details, one or more attributes of the individual (e.g., age, allergies, diseases, conditions, etc.), or any authorization indication. In some embodiments, probe 1210 includes memory 1218. Memory 1218 may store the oral cavity feature. In some embodiments, the oral cavity feature included in a database is itself an authorization indication.

[0405] In various embodiments, the processor 1216 and / or memory 1218 are part of an external computing device (e.g., an individual smartphone). In these embodiments, the external computing device controls the probe 1210 to emit and detect waves.

[0406] In various embodiments, the processor 1216 and / or memory 1218 are part of the probe 1200 (e.g., an individual's smartphone). In these embodiments, the probe 1200 may be a dongle, a substance delivery device, a fluid delivery device, an electronic cigarette, an atomizer, an electronic device, or any other device configured to perform at least one function based on authentication of an individual via oral characteristics, or may be part of such a device.

[0407] In various implementations, system 1200 includes or can communicate with an external storage device 1220. The external storage device 1220 can store oral features. For example, the external storage device 1220 can be a remote database, a dongle, etc.

[0408] In some implementations, processor 1216 extracts and records multiple oral features or derivatives thereof of the same individual, such as having different waveforms, being suitable for a specific application, device, usage scheme, etc. All of these oral features or derivatives thereof may be stored in memory 1218 and / or external storage device 1220.

[0409] Once an individual has registered using oral characteristics or derivatives thereof, the individual can now use the oral characteristics or derivatives thereof to authenticate the individual's identity, authorization, and / or attributes for one or more target devices 1230 and / or for authentication purposes applicable to the use of oral characteristics or derivatives thereof. For example, oral characteristics or derivatives thereof can be used to authenticate an individual's identity, authorization, and / or attributes in order to log into a bank account, obtain access / use rights to a location or data, e-cigarettes, inhalers, etc.

[0410] Processor 1216 can communicate with target device 1230 via wired and / or wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, USB, code scanner, etc.). In some embodiments, processor 1216 remotely controls target device 1230. For example, probe 1210 can acquire an individual's oral cavity characteristics and authenticate the individual via communication with memory 1218 and / or external storage device 1220. In another example, probe 1210 can acquire an individual's oral cavity characteristics and transmit data to target device 1230 (e.g., probe 1210 can provide a new e-cigarette with an individual's oral cavity characteristics as an example of age, the e-cigarette can store this data, and can then operate independently of probe 1210). In some embodiments, probe 1210 is used to confirm / update data from time to time (e.g., the e-cigarette can store data or use data for a limited duration).

[0411] In some embodiments, system 1200 may operate based on the reflection of sound waves generated by an individual. Sound waves generated by an individual may be, for example, sound waves caused by inhalation (resulting in airflow in the direction of the individual's mouth via the individual's nose and at least one of the fluid delivery devices), or sounds of inhalation or exhalation, or any other non-verbal sounds emitted in the direction of the individual's mouth (optionally excluding speech and other vocalizations). For example, a reflection may be a reflection of sound waves generated by the individual without uttering a sound. Examples include airflow sounds from one or more of inhalation and / or exhalation via the mouth, nose, and / or via the fluid delivery device. In some embodiments, probe 1200 includes at least two sensors positioned to detect at least a portion of the reflection of sound waves from the individual, particularly if the generated sound is not predetermined. In various embodiments, system 1200 may operate based solely on the reflection of sound waves generated by the individual, solely on the reflection of sound waves generated by wave generator 1212, or both.

[0412] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of a system 1300 for obtaining oral characteristics of an individual using an oral thermometer 1310, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0413] System 1300 may include an oral thermometer 1310. For example, oral thermometer 1310 may include a heating head 1311, a display screen 1312, and an actuator 1313. The oral thermometer may include a wave generator 1314 and a wave sensor 1316. Wave generator 1314 may emit waves toward an individual, and wave sensor 1316 may detect at least a portion of the reflected waves from the individual (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The controllable wave sensor 1316 detects waves while the oral thermometer 1310 is in an individual's mouth. For example, the controllable wave sensor 1316 can detect waves before, during, or after temperature detection by the oral thermometer 1310.

[0414] In some embodiments, the thermometer 1310 is inserted into the individual's mouth, optionally such that at least the wave generator 1314 is not covered by the individual's tongue. For example, the wave generator 1314 and the wave sensor 1316 may be positioned inside the individual's mouth behind the individual's teeth, exposed in the oral cavity. In some embodiments, the size and / or shape of the oral thermometer 1310 is configured to facilitate the placement of the wave generator 1314 and the wave sensor 1316 in this location. In some embodiments, the wave sensor 1316 is controlled to detect waves when the individual is unresponsive and unable to cooperate.

[0415] In some implementations, system 1300 includes a processing unit 1320. The processing unit 1320 may communicate with the wave sensor 1316 of the oral thermometer 1310 (e.g., wired and / or wireless).

[0416] Processor 1320 may base its decisions on at least a portion of the reflected wave detected by wave sensor 1316 (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The processing unit 1320 extracts an individual's oral cavity features based on the obtained oral cavity features (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The above).

[0417] During authentication, processing unit 1320 may direct a user (e.g., an individual or another person, such as a caregiver, healthcare worker, etc.) to database 1340 via user interface 1330. For example, database 1340 may include an individual's personal medical information and / or other information. In some embodiments, processing unit 1320 uses acquired oral features to automatically input temperature measurements associated with an individual's identity (e.g., in hospital records).

[0418] In some embodiments, other devices are associated with the oral thermometer 1310 (e.g., wirelessly or via wired connection, such as by being associated with the same hospital site (e.g., a patient's bed) and / or via authentication of patient records). In some embodiments, data related to the operation of the individual and / or any associated device / measurement (e.g., the oral thermometer 1310) is recorded in association with the individual's authenticated identity.

[0419] In various implementations, different devices or dedicated probes are used instead of the oral thermometer 1310. For example, the user can use the probe in conjunction with oral characteristics (such as... Figure 12 The probe described in the text is used to access individual data. An individual's body temperature can be measured individually and manually entered into the system by the user.

[0420] Figure 14 This is a block diagram of a nozzle 1400 for obtaining an individual's oral cavity characteristics during liquid consumption, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0421] In some embodiments, the nozzle 1400 includes a liquid delivery conduit 1401, a wave generator 1402, a wave sensor 1404, and at least one of the following: a controllable valve 1410, a liquid sensing unit 1420, and a controller 1430. The liquid sensing unit 1420 may include any of the following: a flow rate sensor, a pressure sensor, a substance detector (e.g., a pH sensor), and an optical sensor, a viscosity sensor, and / or any other sensing unit that can provide information about the amount or type of liquid flowing in the liquid delivery conduit 1401.

[0422] In various embodiments, containers suitable for containing liquids include nozzle 1400 or containers connectable to nozzle 1400. Figure 14 In the illustrated embodiments, the nozzle 1400 is formed as a straw. In these embodiments, the nozzle 1400 may include a puncture device 1440 for attaching the nozzle to a puncturable container so that an individual can drink liquid by suction. In some embodiments, suction is not required. For example, in some embodiments, the nozzle 1400 is a delivery conduit through which liquid can flow by gravity without typically applying pressure changes (e.g., bottlenecks, etc.).

[0423] Controller 140 can control wave generator 1402 to emit waves toward an individual and control wave sensor 1404 to detect at least a portion of the reflected waves from the individual (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B (As described above). Controller 1430 may include a processor. The processor may authenticate an individual based on at least a portion of the reflection of the received wave (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The above).

[0424] In some embodiments, during individual authentication, controller 1430 may control controllable valve 1410 to allow liquid to flow through delivery conduit 1401 of nozzle 1400. In some embodiments, controller 1430 may control the flow of liquid through delivery conduit 1401 based on the output of liquid sensing unit 1420. For example, the output of liquid sensing unit 1420 may include the type, volume, etc., of the liquid being delivered. In some embodiments, controller 1430 records users in a database. In various embodiments, controller 1430 detects attempts to pour liquid and / or allow unauthorized individuals to ingest liquid and may prevent this from happening by closing controllable valve 1410 and / or issuing alarms (e.g., local and / or remote locations).

[0425] Some implementations may be embodied in the form of a system, method, or computer program product. Similarly, some implementations may be embodied in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Some implementations may be embodied as a computer program product stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable media in the form of computer-readable program code embodied thereon. Such non-transitory computer-readable media may include instructions that, when executed, cause a processor to perform method steps according to the examples. In some examples, the instructions stored on the computer-readable media may be in the form of an installed application and an installation package. For example, such instructions may be loaded and executed by one or more processors.

[0426] For example, a computer-readable medium can be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium can be, for example, an electronic, optical, magnetic, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, device, or apparatus, or any combination thereof.

[0427] Computer program code can be written in any suitable programming language. This program code can be executed on a single computer system or multiple computer systems.

[0428] While embodiments of the invention are not limited in this respect, discussions using terms such as “processing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “establishing,” “analyzing,” or “checking” may refer to the operations and / or processes of a computer, computing platform, computing system, or other electronic computing device that manipulate data representing physical (e.g., electronic) quantities in the registers and / or memory of a computer and / or convert that data into other data representing physical quantities in a non-transitory storage medium similarly represented in the registers and / or memory of a computer or other information that may store instructions for performing the operations and / or processes.

[0429] While embodiments of the invention are not limited in this respect, the term "multiple" as used herein may include, for example, "a plurality" or "two or more". The term "multiple" may be used throughout the specification to describe two or more components, devices, elements, units, parameters, etc. The set of terms used herein may include one or more items. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the method embodiments described herein are not bound by a particular order or sequence. Furthermore, some of the described method embodiments or elements thereof may occur or be performed simultaneously, at the same point in time, or concurrently.

[0430] The foregoing references flowcharts and / or block diagrams describing methods, systems, and computer program products according to various implementation schemes, illustrating some implementation schemes.

[0431] The features of the various embodiments discussed herein can be used in conjunction with other embodiments discussed herein. The foregoing description of the embodiments has been presented for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to the precise forms disclosed. Those skilled in the art will understand that many modifications, variations, substitutions, alterations, and equivalents are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations falling within the true spirit of the matter.

[0432] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the invention. Therefore, the foregoing embodiments are to be considered illustrative in all respects and not as limiting of the invention described herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description, and all variations within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the claims are intended to be included therein.

[0433] In the foregoing detailed description, numerous specific details have been set forth to provide an understanding of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, modules, units, and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. Some features or elements described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with features or elements described with respect to other embodiments.

Claims

1. A substance delivery device for delivering a substance to an individual, the substance delivery device comprising: A storage area for housing the substance within the substance delivery device; A wave generator for emitting a wave toward the mouth of the individual or a portion thereof; A sensor, the sensor being used to detect at least a portion of the reflection of the wave emitted by the wave generator; and A processor, which is coupled to the sensor and configured to: Receive wave data from the sensor; In registration mode, the processor is used to extract at least one oral cavity feature from the received wave data and register the at least one feature on the device; In authentication mode, after attempting to use the device, at least one wave signal sample comprising at least a portion of the received wave data is extracted from the received wave data, and a comparison is made between the at least one wave signal sample and the at least one oral cavity feature. The individual is authenticated based on the comparison; as well as The delivery of the substance to the individual is controlled based on the authentication.

2. The substance delivery device of claim 1, wherein the substance delivery device includes a conduit for delivering the substance to or through the mouth of the individual.

3. The substance delivery device of claim 1, wherein the substance comprises at least one of nicotine, tobacco, pharmaceutical substances, and liquids containing nicotine.

4. The material delivery apparatus of claim 2, wherein the material delivery apparatus includes an actuator associated with the reservoir, the actuator being configured to control at least one of the following based on the processor's authentication of the individual: release of the material from the reservoir; delivery of the material to the individual.

5. The material delivery device of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to authenticate the individual by determining, at least whether the individual's age is above or below an age threshold, based on analysis of at least a portion of the reflection of the wave.

6. The material delivery device of claim 1, wherein the wave includes an acoustic wave.

7. The material delivery device of claim 6, wherein the wave generator is configured to emit the sound wave at a volume at which the second individual cannot hear the sound wave when the head of the second individual is at a distance of at least 30 cm from the head of the first individual.

8. The material delivery apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wave generator is configured to output a single pulse wave or multiple pulse waves.

9. The material delivery device of claim 1, wherein the material delivery device includes a motion detection sensor configured to detect movement of the material delivery device, and wherein the processor is configured to determine, after successful authentication, whether the material delivery device has moved beyond a predefined minimum range.

10. The material delivery apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to perform at least one of the following: Prevent the delivery of the substance before the certification is valid; Substance delivery is permitted only after the certification is valid; Once the certification is reset, material delivery is stopped; and If the authentication fails, the device is locked.

11. The material delivery device of claim 2, wherein the material delivery device includes electrical contacts for engaging electrical contacts of an electrical element associated with the reservoir and positioned to deliver current to a heating element associated with the reservoir and configured to heat the material within the reservoir, wherein the processor is configured to control the delivery of the current to cause at least one of the following: Prevent the heating element from heating above a predefined threshold before performing the authentication; and The heating element is only permitted to heat above a predefined threshold after successful authentication; and Once the authentication indicator is reset, the heat dissipation of the heating element is reduced or stopped.

12. The material delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the processor is configured to: The detected wave or the analysis result of the detected wave is compared with the oral cavity features of one or more of the multiple registered individuals, and Determine whether the individual is one of the plurality of registered individuals. The oral cavity features mentioned therein include wave emission data or analysis results that indicate an individual or individual attributes.

13. The material delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the processor is configured to: Retrieve stored oral features from a database associated with the substance delivery device, and The individual is identified by comparing the individual's oral cavity features with the stored oral cavity features.

14. The substance delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the substance delivery device comprising a sensor configured to detect inhalation by the individual via the substance delivery device.

15. The substance delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the processor is configured to authenticate each time the individual performs inhalation via the substance delivery device.

16. The material delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the material delivery device comprising an alarm output device based on an authentication output alarm, wherein the alarm is an audio alarm or a visual alarm.

17. The material delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the material delivery device includes a memory for storing usage information, authentication information, registration information, or any combination thereof.

18. The material delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the wave generator is a loudspeaker.

19. The substance delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the authentication and substance delivery are performed within a single inhalation of the individual.

20. The material delivery apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the processor is configured to normalize one or more of the detected waves relative to a predetermined reference wave signal of ambient sound.

21. The substance delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the substance delivery device is selected from the group consisting of a medical inhaler, a nebulizer, an electronic cigarette, and a nasal roll.

22. A method of using an apparatus for authenticating an individual, the method comprising: A wave is emitted from a transmitter toward at least a portion of the mouth of the individual via at least one of the mouth and nose; A sensor is used to receive reflected waves, the reflected waves including at least a portion of the wave reflected from the individual; In registration mode, a processor is used to extract at least one oral cavity feature from the received wave data and register the at least one feature on the device; In authentication mode, after attempting to use the device, at least one wave signal sample comprising at least a portion of the received wave is extracted from the received wave, and a comparison is made between the at least one wave signal sample and the at least one oral cavity feature. as well as The individual is authenticated based on the comparison.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the method comprises delivering a substance to the individual upon successful certification, wherein the substance is a tobacco-derived substance and / or nicotine.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the method includes authentication and delivery within a single inhalation of the individual.

25. The method of claim 22, wherein the authentication further comprises determining whether the individual's age is above one or more age thresholds or below one or more age thresholds.

26. The method of claim 22, wherein the wave comprises an acoustic wave.

27. The method of claim 22, wherein the method includes detecting whether the sensor has moved beyond a predefined minimum range after the individual has been successfully authenticated.

28. The method of claim 22, wherein the method comprises at least one of the following: Prevent the delivery of the substance before the certification is valid; Substance delivery is permitted only after the certification is valid; Once the certification is reset, material delivery is stopped; and If the authentication fails, the device is locked.

29. The method of claim 22, wherein the method comprises at least one of the following: Before performing the certification, the heating element used to heat the substance to be delivered is prevented from heating above a predefined threshold. The heating element is only permitted to heat above a predefined threshold after the authentication is successful; Once the authentication indicator is reset, the heat dissipation of the heating element is reduced or stopped; and The flow path of the fluid within the material delivery device to the individual is controlled such that the fluid arriving at the individual carries the material only when the authentication indication is successful.

30. The method of claim 22, wherein the authentication is based on biometric data input into the system, the biometric data including at least one of sex, race, geographic origin, or any combination thereof.

31. The method of claim 22, wherein the method comprises comparing the reflected wave with the characteristics of at least one registered individual to determine whether the individual is a registered individual.

32. The method of claim 22, wherein the method includes authenticating the individual at predetermined time intervals.

33. The method of any one of claims 22 to 32, the method comprising controlling a pressure-dependent flow valve such that flow through the valve occurs only during inhalation when the generated pressure exceeds a threshold, and wherein wave emission is performed partially or only when the valve is closed.

34. The method of any one of claims 22 to 32, wherein the method includes detecting the inhalation of the individual.

35. The method of any one of claims 22 to 32, the method comprising delivering a substance to the individual, and authenticating the individual at least once before delivering the substance to the individual and at least once during delivering the substance to the individual, wherein the substance is a tobacco-derived substance and / or nicotine.

36. The method of any one of claims 22 to 32, the method comprising outputting an alarm based on authentication, wherein the alarm is an audio alarm or a visual alarm.

37. The method of any one of claims 22 to 32, wherein the time interval between the individual inhaling the substance and the analysis of whether the individual is real is 10 ms to 100 ms.

38. The method of any one of claims 22 to 32, the method comprising normalizing one or more of the detected waves relative to a predetermined reference wave signal of ambient sound.

39. The method of any one of claims 22 to 32, the method comprising, upon successful certification, limiting delivery of the substance to the individual based on the total amount of the substance permitted within a defined period, wherein the substance is a tobacco-derived substance and / or nicotine.

40. A method for registering biometric attributes of an individual on a device, the method comprising: The transmitter of the device emits a wave toward at least a portion of the individual's mouth; The sensor of the device senses at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual; The processor of the device uses the sensor to derive oral cavity features; as well as The device stores indications of the oral cavity features in its memory.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein storing the oral cavity feature comprises storing the oral cavity feature in association with at least one of: a personal device, a characteristic associated with the individual, a personal attribute of the individual, data identifying the individual, a restriction instruction, a permission instruction, an instruction of action, or any combination thereof.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the personal attribute includes an indication of the individual's age or date of birth.

43. The method of any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the data identifying the individual includes name, social security number, identity card number, passport number, license number, facial image, or any combination thereof.

44. An authentication device for authenticating an individual, the authentication device comprising: A wave generator for emitting waves toward the mouth of the individual; A sensor for detecting at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual; The memory is used to store at least one oral feature of at least one registered user; as well as A processor, which is coupled to the sensor and configured to: The individual is identified by analyzing at least a portion of the reflection of the wave from the individual; Export the wave signal samples of the individual; and The derived wave signal sample of the individual is compared with at least one oral cavity feature of the at least one registered user stored in the memory.

45. The authentication device of claim 44, the authentication device comprising a nozzle configured for insertion into the mouth of the individual, such that a wave generated by the wave generator is emitted directly from the nozzle into at least one of the lips and oral cavity of the individual.

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