Thermal engine control algorithm for non-nicotine e-vaping devices

Abstract

A method of controlling a heater of an apparatus comprising a removable container of storage material, comprising: detecting, from the removable container, power information indicative of a first operating point and a second operating point; and powering the heater based on the detected power information by: determining a first amount of electricity based on the first operating point, supplying the first amount of electricity to the heater during a first operating mode of the heater, determining a second amount of electricity based on the second operating point, and supplying the second amount of electricity to the heater during a second operating mode of the heater, the second amount of electricity being higher than the first amount of electricity, the apparatus being a non-nicotine e-vaping apparatus or a heat-not-burn aerosol generation apparatus, the material being a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation or an aerosol-forming substrate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to non-nicotine electronic cigarette devices, including stand-alone articles containing non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations. Background Technology

[0002] Non-nicotine electronic smoking devices are used to vaporize non-nicotine vapor precursor materials into non-nicotine vapor. These non-nicotine electronic smoking devices may be referred to as non-nicotine electronic cigarette devices. Non-nicotine electronic cigarette devices include a heater that vaporizes the non-nicotine vapor precursor material to produce non-nicotine vapor. Non-nicotine electronic cigarette devices may include several electronic cigarette components, including a power source, a cylinder or non-nicotine electronic cigarette canister including the heater, and a reservoir capable of holding the non-nicotine vapor precursor material. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a method for controlling a heater of a device, the device including a removable container for storing material, the method comprising: detecting power information from the removable container indicating a first operating point and a second operating point; and supplying power to the heater based on the detected power information by: determining a first charge based on the first operating point and supplying the first charge to the heater during a first operating mode of the heater, determining a second charge based on a second operating point and supplying the second charge to the heater during a second operating mode of the heater, wherein the second charge is higher than the first charge, the device being a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device or a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device, and the material being a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation or an aerosol forming matrix.

[0004] The first electrical charge supplied during the first operating mode may be an amount that causes the heater to heat the material stored in the device to a temperature below the dispersion temperature of the material, while the second electrical charge supplied during the second operating mode may be an amount that causes the heater to heat the material stored in the device to a temperature equal to or greater than the dispersion temperature of the material, wherein the dispersion temperature is the boiling point of the material when the material is a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation, and the dispersion temperature is the aerosolization temperature of the material when the material is an aerosol-forming matrix.

[0005] Materials can be stored in removable containers.

[0006] The removable container may include a heater.

[0007] The power information may include multiple operating points corresponding to multiple coarse preference levels, and the method may further include receiving a selection of a coarse preference level from the multiple coarse preference levels via one or more touch sensors located on the device; and selecting an operating point from the multiple operating points that corresponds to the selected coarse preference level as a second operating point.

[0008] Determining the second power level may include: receiving a selection of a fine preference level from a plurality of fine preference levels from an external source by the device; and determining the second power level based on the selected second operating point and the selected fine preference level.

[0009] The external source can be a wireless communication device, and receiving the selection of a fine preference level can include receiving the selection of a fine preference level by the device via a wireless communication link between the device and the external source.

[0010] The power information may include a first plurality of operating points corresponding to a plurality of coarse preference levels, and the method may further include: receiving a selection of a coarse preference level from the plurality of coarse preference levels via one or more touch sensors located on the device; and selecting an operating point from the first plurality of operating points that corresponds to the selected coarse preference level as a first operating point.

[0011] Determining the first power level may include: receiving a selection of a fine preference level from a plurality of fine preference levels from an external source by the device; and determining the first power level based on the selected first operating point and the selected fine preference level.

[0012] The external source can be a wireless communication device, and receiving the selection of a fine preference level can include receiving the selection of a fine preference level by the device via a wireless communication link between the device and the external source.

[0013] The power information may include a second plurality of operating points corresponding to a plurality of coarse preference levels, and the method may further include selecting an operating point from the second plurality of operating points that corresponds to the selected coarse preference level as the second operating point.

[0014] Determining the second charge may include determining the second charge based on the selected second operating point and the selected fine preference level.

[0015] The external source can be a wireless communication device, and receiving the selection of a fine preference level can include receiving the selection of a fine preference level by the device via a wireless communication link between the device and the external source.

[0016] The detection of power information may include reading power information from an image located on a removable container by a device.

[0017] The image may include a QR code, and reading the power information may include the device reading the power information from the QR code located on the removable container.

[0018] The removable container may include a memory that can store data including power information, and the detection of the power information may include the device reading the power information from the memory of the removable container. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a method for controlling a heater of a device configured to hold a removable container of stored material includes: receiving a selection of a coarse preference level from a plurality of coarse preference levels via one or more touch sensors located on the device; receiving a selection of a fine preference level from a plurality of fine preference levels from an external source by the device; determining a first electrical charge based on the selected coarse preference level and the selected fine preference level; and supplying the determined first electrical charge to the heater, the device being a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device or a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device, the material being a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation or an aerosol forming matrix.

[0019] The external source can be a wireless communication device, and receiving the selection of a fine preference level can include receiving the selection of a fine preference level by the device via a wireless communication link between the device and the external source.

[0020] The method may further include: receiving a first removable container by the device via inserting a first removable container into the device, the first removable container containing a material; detecting a first formulation type as the material type of the first removable container by the device; and storing a selected coarse preference level and a selected fine preference level in the memory of the device in association with the detected first formulation type, wherein the determined first electrical quantity may be an amount that causes a heater to heat the material stored in the first removable container to a temperature equal to or greater than the dispersion temperature of the material stored in the first removable container, wherein the dispersion temperature is the boiling point of the material stored in the first removable container when the material stored in the first removable container is a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation, and the dispersion temperature is the aerosolization temperature of the material stored in the first removable container when the material stored in the first removable container is an aerosol-forming matrix.

[0021] The detection may include: reading formulation type information from an image located on a first removable container by a device; and detecting a first formulation type as a material type of the first removable container based on the read formulation type information.

[0022] The image may include a QR code, and reading the formulation type information may include the device reading the formulation type information from the QR code located on the first removable container.

[0023] The first removable container may include a memory that may store data containing formulation type information, and the detection may include: reading the formulation type information from the memory of the first removable container by a device; and detecting a first formulation type as the material type of the first removable container based on the read formulation type information.

[0024] The method may further include: receiving a second removable container, the second removable container containing a material, by inserting it into a device; detecting a first formulation type as the material type of the second removable container by the device; based on the detection of the first formulation type as the material type of the second removable container, reading from the device's memory a coarse preference level and a fine preference level previously stored in the device's memory associated with the first formulation type; determining a second electrical charge based on the read coarse preference level and the read fine preference level; and heating the material stored in the second removable container to a temperature equal to or greater than the dispersion temperature of the material stored in the second removable container by supplying the determined second electrical charge to the heater, wherein the dispersion temperature is the boiling point of the material stored in the second removable container when the material stored in the second removable container is a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation, and the dispersion temperature is the aerosolization temperature of the material stored in the second removable container when the material stored in the second removable container is an aerosol-forming matrix.

[0025] The detection may include: reading formulation type information from an image located on a second removable container by a device; and detecting a first formulation type as the material type of the second removable container based on the read formulation type information.

[0026] The image may include a QR code, and reading the formulation type information may include reading the formulation type information from the QR code located on the second removable container by the device.

[0027] The second removable container may include a memory that may store data including formulation type information, and detection may include reading the formulation type information from the memory of the first removable container by a device; and detecting the first formulation type as the material type of the second removable container based on the read formulation type information.

[0028] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a method for controlling a heater of a device configured to hold a removable container storing material includes: receiving a plurality of smoking preference levels by the device; determining a current time by the device; determining a predicted smoking preference level by the device based on the determined current time; determining an electrical charge to be supplied to the heater based on the predicted smoking preference level; and supplying the determined electrical charge to the heater, wherein the device is a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device or a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device, and the material is a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation or an aerosol forming matrix.

[0029] Multiple smoking preference levels may include a first received smoking preference level received by the device at a first time of day and a second received smoking preference level received by the device at a second time of day, and determining a predicted smoking preference level may include determining the predicted smoking preference level by the device based on the first received smoking preference level when the determined current time is within the first time of day; and determining the predicted smoking preference level by the device based on the second received smoking preference level when the determined current time is within the second time of day.

[0030] Receiving multiple smoking preference levels may include receiving one or more of multiple smoking preference levels via one or more touch sensors located on the device.

[0031] Receiving multiple smoking preference levels may include receiving one or more of multiple smoking preference levels from an external source.

[0032] The external source can be a wireless communication device, and receiving one or more of the multiple smoking preference levels can include receiving one or more of the multiple smoking preference levels by the device via a wireless communication link between the device and the external source.

[0033] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a method for controlling a heater of a device configured to hold a removable container storing material includes: receiving a selection of a coarse preference level from a plurality of coarse preference levels via one or more touch sensors located on the device; detecting power information from a removable container included in the device indicating a plurality of operating points corresponding to the plurality of coarse preference levels; selecting an operating point corresponding to the selected coarse preference level as a first operating point from the plurality of operating points; determining a first electrical charge based on the first operating point; and supplying the determined first electrical charge to the heater, the device being a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device or a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device, the material being a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation or an aerosol forming matrix.

[0034] The first electrical quantity can be the amount by which the heater heats the material stored in the device to a temperature below the dispersion temperature of the material. When the material is a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation, the dispersion temperature is the boiling point of the material, while when the material is an aerosol-forming matrix, the dispersion temperature is the aerosolization temperature of the material.

[0035] The first electrical quantity can be the amount by which the heater heats the material stored in the device to a temperature equal to or greater than the dispersion temperature of the material. When the material is a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation, the dispersion temperature is the boiling point of the material, while when the material is an aerosol-forming matrix, the dispersion temperature is the aerosolization temperature of the material.

[0036] Detecting power information can include reading power information from an image located on a removable container by the device.

[0037] The image may include a QR code, and reading power information may include the device reading power information from a QR code located on the removable container.

[0038] The removable container may include a memory that can store data containing power information, and detecting the power information may include having the device read the power information from the memory of the removable container. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a method for controlling a heater of a device configured to hold a removable container storing material includes: determining a heater temperature value; obtaining a target temperature value; and controlling a power level supplied to the heater based on the heater temperature value and the target temperature value via a PID controller, the device being a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device or a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device, the material being a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation or an aerosol forming matrix.

[0039] Determining a heater temperature value may include: obtaining one or more electrical properties of the heater; determining the resistance of the heater based on the obtained one or more electrical properties; and obtaining a first temperature value from a lookup table ((LUT)-) based on the determined resistance.

[0040] The LUT can store multiple temperature values ​​corresponding to multiple heater resistors. The first temperature value obtained can be the temperature value corresponding to the determined resistance value among the multiple temperature values ​​stored in the LUT, and the heater temperature value can be the first temperature value obtained.

[0041] Obtaining a target temperature value may include: detecting power information indicating multiple temperature setpoints from a removable container included in the device; determining the current operating mode of the device; and selecting from the multiple temperature setpoints the temperature setpoint corresponding to the determined current operating mode of the device as the target temperature value.

[0042] Controlling the power level supplied to the heater can include controlling the power level supplied to the heater via a PID controller to reduce the difference between the target temperature value and the heater temperature value. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will become more apparent when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale. For clarity, the various dimensions of the drawings may have been enlarged.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a front view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0045] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0046] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Rear view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0047] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A close-up view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0048] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A remote view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0049] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0050] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of the pod entrance.

[0051] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0052] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the main body of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0053] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The front view of the main body of the device.

[0054] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged perspective view of the through hole in the image.

[0055] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An enlarged perspective view of the electrical connector of the device.

[0056] Figure 13 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the pod assembly of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0057] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another perspective view of the pod component.

[0058] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A partial exploded view of the pod components.

[0059] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A perspective view of the connector module in the image.

[0060] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 Another perspective view of the connector module.

[0061] Figure 18 It does not have a suction core or heater. Figure 17 A perspective view of the connector module.

[0062] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An exploded view of the connector module.

[0063] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 Another exploded view of the connector module.

[0064] Figure 21A A device system diagram of an allocation subject according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0065] Figure 21B An exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 21A An example of a controller in a device system.

[0066] Figure 22A A pod system diagram of an allocation subject according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0067] Figure 22B An exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 22A An example of a pod system, in which the cryptographic coprocessor is omitted.

[0068] Figure 23 A pod system connected to a device system is shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0069] Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating a heat engine control algorithm and related inputs according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0070] Figure 25A This is a block diagram illustrating a setpoint heat engine control algorithm according to at least some exemplary embodiments.

[0071] Figure 25B The diagram illustrates a method based on at least some exemplary embodiments. Figure 25A An example of at least a portion of the power level waveform generated by the setpoint heat engine control algorithm.

[0072] Figure 25C This is a block diagram illustrating an adaptive heat engine control algorithm according to at least some exemplary embodiments.

[0073] Figure 25D The detected airflow and the flow of air shown are illustrated according to at least some exemplary embodiments. Figure 25C An example relationship between the adaptive power levels generated by the adaptive heat engine control algorithm.

[0074] Figure 25E This is a block diagram illustrating a temperature-heat engine control algorithm according to at least some exemplary embodiments.

[0075] Figure 25F The diagram illustrates a method based on at least some exemplary embodiments. Figure 25E An example of a temperature-controlled thermodynamic algorithm generating at least a portion of a power level waveform.

[0076] Figure 25G This is a block diagram illustrating a waveform thermodynamic control algorithm according to at least some exemplary embodiments.

[0077] Figure 25H The diagram illustrates a method based on at least some exemplary embodiments. Figure 25G An example of at least a portion of the temperature value waveform generated by the waveform thermodynamic control algorithm.

[0078] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating a buttonless smoking function 2310 according to at least some exemplary embodiments.

[0079] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0080] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view of another heated non-combustible aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0081] Figure 29 This is a plan view of the arrangement of a capsule engaged with an electrode and a seal of a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0082] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A perspective view of the layout structure.

[0083] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 Side view of the layout structure. Detailed Implementation

[0084] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as "on another element or layer," "connected to another element or layer," "coupled to another element or layer," or "covering another element or layer," the element or layer may be directly located on, directly connected to, coupled to, or cover the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly located on another element or layer," "directly connected to another element or layer," or "directly coupled to another element or layer," there are no intermediate elements or layers. The same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed related items.

[0085] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., used herein may describe different elements, features, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, features, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, feature, region, layer, or portion from another. Therefore, the first element, feature, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, feature, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0086] For ease of description, spatially related terms (e.g., "below," "below," "down," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another, as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatially related terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as "below" or "below other elements or features" would be oriented "above other elements or features." Therefore, the term "below" can include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially related descriptive terms used herein shall be interpreted accordingly.

[0087] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing different embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “described” as used herein are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and / or “comprising” indicate the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0088] This document describes exemplary embodiments with reference to cross-sectional diagrams, which are schematic illustrations of ideal embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the exemplary embodiments. Thus, variations in the shape of the diagrams as a result of, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances can be expected. Therefore, exemplary embodiments should not be considered limited to the shapes of the areas shown herein, but rather include, for example, deviations in shape due to manufacturing processes. The areas shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shapes of areas of the device, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0089] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments pertain. It should be further understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms (including those defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technical field and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0090] Exemplary Non-Nicotine Electronic Cigarette Device Structure As used herein, “non-nicotine electronic cigarette device” may sometimes be referred to using any of the following terms and is considered synonymous with any of the following terms: non-nicotine electronic smoking device, non-nicotine electronic cigarette apparatus, and non-nicotine electronic smoking apparatus. A pod assembly (e.g., pod assembly 300) may also be referred to herein as a “pod” or a “removable pod.”

[0091] Figure 1 This is a front view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Rear view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. (Refer to...) Figure 1-3The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 includes a device body 100 configured to receive a pod assembly 300. The pod assembly 300 is a modular article of article configured to retain a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation. As used herein, the term "non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation" (or "non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation material") refers to a material (or combination of materials) that does not contain nicotine and can be converted into non-nicotine vapor. For example, a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation can be a liquid, solid, and / or gel formulation, including but not limited to water, oil, emulsion, beads, solvent, active ingredient, ethanol, plant extract, natural or artificial flavorings, and / or vaporizing agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol. During smoking, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 is configured to heat the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation to produce non-nicotine vapor. As mentioned herein, "vapor" is any substance produced or output by any non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to any exemplary embodiment disclosed herein. Non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations may also be described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 540,433 (Attorney-in-charge No. 24000NV-000612-US), filed August 14, 2019, entitled “NON-NICOTINE E-VAPING SECTION, AND NON-NICOTINE E-VAPING DEVICE INCLUDING NON-NICOTINE E-VAPING SECTION,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0092] The device body 100 includes a front cover 104, a frame 106, and a rear cover 108. The front cover 104, frame 106, and rear cover 108 form a device housing that encloses the mechanical components, electronic components, and / or circuitry associated with the operation of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. For example, the device housing of the device body 100 may be configured to enclose a power source for powering the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500, which may include supplying current to the pod assembly 300. Additionally, when assembled, the front cover 104, frame 106, and rear cover 108 may constitute most of the visible portion of the device body 100.

[0093] A front cover 104 (e.g., a first cover) defines a main opening configured to receive a frame structure 112. The frame structure 112 defines a through-hole 150 configured to receive a pod assembly 300. (The text is combined with examples...) Figure 9 Let's discuss the through-hole 150 in more detail.

[0094] The front cover 104 also defines a secondary opening configured to receive a light guide device. The secondary opening may resemble a slot (e.g., a segmented slot), but other shapes are also possible, depending on the shape of the light guide device. In one exemplary embodiment, the light guide device includes a light guide lens 116. Furthermore, the front cover 104 defines a third and a fourth opening configured to receive a first button 118 and a second button 120. Each of the third and fourth openings may resemble a rounded square, but other shapes are also possible, depending on the shape of the button. A first button housing 122 is configured to expose a first button lens 124, while a second button housing 123 is configured to expose a second button lens 126.

[0095] The operation of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 can be controlled by a first button 118 and a second button 120. For example, the first button 118 may be a power button, and the second button 120 may be an intensity button. Although two buttons are shown in conjunction with a light guide in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that more (or fewer) buttons may be provided depending on the available features and desired user interface. Frame 106 (e.g., base frame) is the central support structure of the device body 100 (and the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 as a whole). Frame 106 may be referred to as a chassis. Frame 106 includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a pair of sides between the proximal end and the distal end. The proximal end and the distal end may also be referred to as the downstream end and the upstream end, respectively. As used herein, "proximal side" (and conversely, "distal side") relates to an adult smoker during smoking, and "downstream" (and conversely, "upstream") relates to the flow of vapor. A bridging portion is provided between the opposing inner surfaces of the sides (e.g., approximately along the middle of the length of frame 106) to improve strength and stability. Frame 106 can be integrated into a single structure.

[0096] Regarding the construction material, frame 106 can be formed of alloy or plastic. The alloy (e.g., die-casting grade, machinable grade) can be an aluminum (Al) alloy or a zinc (Zn) alloy. The plastic can be polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination thereof (PC / ABS). For example, polycarbonate can be LUPOY SC1004A. Furthermore, for functional and / or aesthetic reasons (e.g., to provide a superior appearance), frame 106 can have a surface finish. In one exemplary embodiment, frame 106 (e.g., when formed of an aluminum alloy) can be anodized. In another embodiment, frame 106 (e.g., when formed of a zinc alloy) can be coated with hard enamel or painted. In another embodiment, frame 106 (e.g., when formed of polycarbonate) can be metallized. In yet another embodiment, frame 106 (e.g., when formed of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) can be electroplated. It should be understood that the construction materials of frame 106 can also be applied to other suitable parts of front cover 104, rear cover 108 and / or non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500.

[0097] The rear cover 108 (e.g., a second cover) also defines an opening configured to receive the frame structure 112. The front cover 104 and the rear cover 108 may be configured to engage with the frame 106 via a snap-fit ​​arrangement.

[0098] The main body 100 of the device also includes a mouth 102. The mouth 102 can be fixed to the proximal end of the frame 106.

[0099] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A close-up view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The outlet surface of the nozzle 102 defines a plurality of steam outlets. In a non-limiting embodiment, the outlet surface of the nozzle 102 may be elliptical.

[0100] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A remote view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. (Refer to...) Figure 5The remote end of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 includes a port 110. Port 110 is configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB cable) to charge the internal power supply within the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. Additionally, port 110 can also be configured to send data to and / or receive data from another non-nicotine electronic cigarette device or other electronic device (e.g., a telephone, tablet, or computer) (e.g., via a USB cable). Furthermore, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 can be configured to wirelessly communicate with another electronic device, such as a telephone, via application software (app) installed on the device. In this case, an adult smoker can control or otherwise interact with the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 through the app (e.g., locate the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500, check usage information, change operating parameters).

[0101] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of the pod inlet. (See reference...) Figure 6-7 As briefly described above, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 includes a pod assembly 300 configured to retain a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation. The pod assembly 300 has an upstream end (facing the light guide device) and a downstream end (facing the mouthpiece 102). In a non-limiting embodiment, the upstream end is the surface of the pod assembly 300 opposite to the downstream end. The upstream end of the pod assembly 300 defines a pod inlet 322. The device body 100 defines a through-hole configured to receive the pod assembly 300 (e.g., Figure 9 (Through-hole 150 in the figure). In an exemplary embodiment, the frame structure 112 of the device body 100 defines the through-hole and includes an upstream edge. As particularly shown in the figures, the upstream edge of the frame structure 112 is angled (e.g., tilted inward) so that the pod inlet 322 is exposed when the pod assembly 300 is located within the through-hole of the device body 100.

[0102] For example, the upstream edge of the bezel structure 112 does not follow the contour of the front cover 104 (so as to be flush with the front surface of the pod assembly 300, thus obscuring the pod inlet 322), but is configured in the form of a spoon to guide ambient air into the pod inlet 322. This angled / spoon-shaped configuration can help reduce or prevent clogging of the air inlet (e.g., pod inlet 322) of the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500. The depth of the spoon allows less than half (e.g., less than a quarter) of the upstream end face of the pod assembly 300 to be exposed. Alternatively, in a non-limiting embodiment, the pod inlet 322 is in the form of a slot. Furthermore, if the device body 100 is considered to extend along a first direction, the slot can be considered to extend along a second direction, wherein the second direction is transverse to the first direction.

[0103] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. Figure 8 In the diagram, the cross-section is taken along the longitudinal axis of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. As shown, the device body 100 and the pod assembly 300 include mechanical, electronic, and / or circuitry related to the operation of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500, which are discussed in more detail herein and / or incorporated herein by reference. For example, the pod assembly 300 may include mechanical components configured to actuate to release a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation from a sealed reservoir therein. The pod assembly 300 may also have mechanical aspects configured to engage with the device body 100 to facilitate insertion and positioning of the pod assembly 300.

[0104] Additionally, the pod assembly 300 can be a "smart pod," comprising electronic components and / or circuitry configured to store, receive, and / or transmit information to / from the device body 100. This information can be used to verify that the pod assembly 300 is used with the device body 100 (e.g., to prevent the use of unapproved / counterfeit pod assemblies). Furthermore, this information can be used to identify the type of the pod assembly 300 and then associate it with a smoking profile based on the identified type. The smoking profile can be designed to describe general parameters for heating non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations and can be adjusted, refined, or otherwise modified by the adult smoker before and / or during smoking.

[0105] The pod assembly 300 can also communicate with the device body 100 other information that may be relevant to the operation of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. Examples of such information may include the level of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation within the pod assembly 300 and / or the elapsed time since the pod assembly 300 was inserted into the device body 100 and activated.

[0106] The device body 100 may include mechanical components (e.g., complementary structures) configured to engage, retain, and / or activate the pod assembly 300. Additionally, the device body 100 may include electronic components and / or circuitry configured to receive current to charge an internal power source (e.g., a battery), which in turn is configured to supply power to the pod assembly 300 during smoking. Furthermore, the device body 100 may include electronic components and / or circuitry configured to communicate with the pod assembly 300, different non-nicotine electronic vaping devices, other electronic devices (e.g., telephones, tablets, computers), and / or adult smokers.

[0107] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the main body of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. (Refer to...) Figure 9 The frame structure 112 of the device body 100 defines a through hole 150. The through hole 150 is configured to receive the pod assembly 300. To facilitate the insertion and positioning of the pod assembly 300 within the through hole 150, the upstream edge of the frame structure 112 includes a first upstream protrusion 128a and a second upstream protrusion 128b.

[0108] The downstream sidewall of the frame structure 112 may define a first downstream opening, a second downstream opening, and a third downstream opening. A retaining structure including a first downstream protrusion 130a and a second downstream protrusion 130b engages with the frame structure 112 such that the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b protrude through the first downstream opening and the second downstream opening of the frame structure 112, respectively, and enter the through hole 150.

[0109] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A front view of the main body of the device. (Refer to...) Figure 10 The device body 100 includes a device electrical connector 132 disposed upstream of the through-hole 150. The device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 is configured to electrically engage with a pod assembly 300 located within the through-hole 150. Therefore, during smoking, power can be supplied from the device body 100 to the pod assembly 300 via the device electrical connector 132. Additionally, data can be sent to and / or received from the device body 100 and the pod assembly 300 via the device electrical connector 132.

[0110] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged perspective view of the through-hole. (Refer to...) Figure 11The distal ends of the first upstream protrusion 128a, the second upstream protrusion 128b, the first downstream protrusion 130a, the second downstream protrusion 130b, and the mouth portion 102 extend into the through-hole 150. In an exemplary embodiment, the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b are fixed structures (e.g., fixed pivots), while the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b are easily controllable structures (e.g., telescopic members). For example, the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b may be configured (e.g., spring-loaded) to default to an extended state, while also being configured to temporarily transition to a retracted state (and reversibly return to the extended state) to facilitate insertion of the pod assembly 300.

[0111] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An enlarged perspective view of the electrical contacts of the device body 100. The electrical contacts of the device body 100 are configured to engage with the pod electrical contacts of the pod assembly 300 when the pod assembly 300 is positioned within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100. (Refer to...) Figure 12 The device body 100 includes a device electrical connector 132 as its electrical contacts. The device electrical connector 132 includes power contacts and data contacts. The power contacts of the device electrical connector 132 are configured to supply power from the device body 100 to the housing assembly 300. As shown, the power contacts of the device electrical connector 132 include a first pair of power contacts and a second pair of power contacts (positioned closer to the front cover 104 than the rear cover 108). The first pair of power contacts (e.g., a pair adjacent to the first upstream protrusion 128a) may be a single integral structure, different from the second pair of power contacts, and includes two protrusions extending into the through-hole 150 when assembled. Similarly, the second pair of power contacts (e.g., a pair adjacent to the second upstream protrusion 128b) may be a single integral structure, different from the first pair of power contacts, and includes two protrusions extending into the through-hole 150 when assembled. The first pair of power contacts and the second pair of power contacts of the device electrical connector 132 are smoothly mounted and biased so as to default into the through hole 150 and retract from the through hole 150 when subjected to a force to overcome the bias (e.g., independently).

[0112] Figure 13 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the pod assembly of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another perspective view of the pod component.

[0113] Figure 13 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the pod assembly of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another perspective view of the pod component. (Refer to...) Figure 13 and14 A pod assembly 300 for a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 includes a pod body configured to hold a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation. Therefore, the pod assembly 300 is an example of a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation storage portion of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. The pod body has an upstream end and a downstream end. The upstream end of the pod body defines a pod inlet 322. The downstream end of the pod body defines a pod outlet 304 in fluid communication with the pod inlet 322 at the upstream end. During inhalation, air enters the pod assembly 300 via the pod inlet 322, and non-nicotine vapor exits the pod assembly 300 via the pod outlet 304. The pod inlet 322 is shown in the figures as a slot. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto, and other forms are also possible.

[0114] Pod assembly 300 includes connector module 320 (e.g., Figure 16 The connector module 320 is disposed within the pod body and exposed through an opening in the upstream end. The outer surface of the connector module 320 includes at least one electrical contact. This at least one electrical contact may include multiple power contacts. For example, the multiple power contacts may include a first power contact 324a and a second power contact 324b. The first power contact 324a of the pod assembly 300 is configured to contact the first power contact of the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 (e.g., with...). Figure 12 The first upstream protrusion 128a of the device body 100 is adjacent to the power contact. Similarly, the second power contact 324b of the pod assembly 300 is configured to connect with the second power contact of the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 (e.g., with the power contact of the device body 100). Figure 12 The second upstream protrusion 128b in the pod assembly 300 is adjacent to a power contact. Additionally, at least one electrical contact of the pod assembly 300 includes a plurality of data contacts 326. The plurality of data contacts 326 of the pod assembly 300 are configured to connect with the data contacts of the device electrical connector 132 (e.g., ...). Figure 12 The five protrusions in the middle are for electrical connection. Although the combined pod assembly 300 shows two power contacts and five data contacts, it should be understood that other variations are possible depending on the design of the device body 100.

[0115] In one exemplary embodiment, the pod assembly 300 includes a front side, a back side opposite the front side, a first side side between the front and back sides, a second side side opposite the first side side, an upstream end face, and a downstream end face opposite the upstream end face. The corners of the side faces and end faces (e.g., the corner between the first side side and the upstream end face, the corner between the upstream end face and the second side side, the corner between the second side side and the downstream end face, and the corner between the downstream end face and the first side side) may be rounded. However, in some cases, the corners may be angled. Additionally, the peripheral edge of the front side may be in the form of a ledge. The outer surface of the connector module 320 (exposed by the pod body) can be considered part of the upstream end face of the pod assembly 300. The front side of the pod assembly 300 may be wider and longer than the back side. In this case, the first and second side sides may be inclined inwards toward each other. The upstream and downstream end faces may also be inclined inwards toward each other. Due to the inclined surfaces, insertion of the pod assembly 300 will be unidirectional (e.g., from the front side of the device body 100 (the side associated with the front cover 104)). As a result, the possibility of the pod assembly 300 being incorrectly inserted into the device body 100 can be reduced or prevented.

[0116] As shown in the figure, the pod body of the pod assembly 300 includes a first housing segment 302 and a second housing segment 308. The first housing segment 302 has a downstream end defining a pod outlet 304. The edge of the pod outlet 304 may optionally be a recessed or retracted region. In this case, the region may resemble a concave portion, wherein the side of the edge adjacent to the back side of the pod assembly 300 may be open, while the side of the edge adjacent to the front side may be surrounded by a protrusion at the downstream end of the first housing segment 302. The protrusion may serve as a stop for the distal end of the mouth portion 102. As a result, this configuration of the pod outlet 304 facilitates reception and alignment of the distal end of the mouth portion 102 (e.g., via the open surface of the edge and its subsequent abutment against the protrusion at the downstream end of the first housing segment 302) Figure 11 In a non-limiting embodiment, the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 may also include an elastic material (or be formed therefrom) to help form a seal around the pod outlet 304 when the pod assembly 300 is properly inserted into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100.

[0117] The downstream end of the first housing section 302 further defines at least one downstream recess. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one downstream recess takes the form of a first downstream recess 306a and a second downstream recess 306b. The pod outlet 304 may be located between the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b are configured to engage with the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b of the device body 100, respectively. Figure 11As shown, the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b of the device body 100 can be disposed at adjacent corners of the downstream sidewall of the through hole 150. The first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b can each be in the form of a V-shaped notch. In this case, each of the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b of the device body 100 can be in the form of a wedge structure configured to engage with the corresponding V-shaped notches of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The first downstream recess 306a can abut against the corners of the downstream end face and the first side face, while the second downstream recess 306b can abut against the corners of the downstream end face and the second side face. As a result, the edges of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b adjacent to the first side face and the second side face, respectively, can be open. In this case, as Figure 14 As shown, each of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b can be a three-sided recess.

[0118] The second housing section 308 has an upstream end, which (in addition to the pod inlet 322) further defines a connector module 320 configured to expose within the pod assembly 300. Figure 15-16 The second housing section 308 has multiple openings (e.g., a first power contact opening 325a, a second power contact opening 325b, and a data contact opening 327). The upstream end of the second housing section 308 also defines at least one upstream recess. In one exemplary embodiment, the at least one upstream recess is in the form of a first upstream recess 312a and a second upstream recess 312b. A pod inlet 322 may be located between the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b. The first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b are configured to engage with a first upstream protrusion 128a and a second upstream protrusion 128b of the device body 100, respectively. Figure 12As shown, the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b of the device body 100 can be located at adjacent corners of the upstream sidewall of the through hole 150. The depth of each of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b can be greater than the depth of each of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The end of each of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b can also be more rounded than the end of each of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. For example, the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b can each be in the form of a U-shaped notch. In this case, each of the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b of the device body 100 can be in the form of a circular knob configured to engage with the corresponding U-shaped notch of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b. The first upstream recess 312a can abut against the corner of the upstream end face and the first side face, while the second upstream recess 312b can abut against the corner of the upstream end face and the second side face. As a result, the edges of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b, which are adjacent to the first side face and the second side face respectively, can be open.

[0119] A first housing section 302 may define a reservoir therein, the reservoir being configured to hold a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation. This reservoir may be configured to hermetically seal the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation until the capsule assembly 300 is activated to release the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation from the reservoir. Due to the hermetically sealed nature, the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation can be isolated from the environment and from the internal components of the capsule assembly 300 that may react with it, thereby reducing or preventing the possibility of adverse effects on the shelf life and / or sensory characteristics (e.g., flavor) of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation. A second housing section 308 may include a structure configured to activate the capsule assembly 300 and receive and heat the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation released from the reservoir after activation.

[0120] The pod assembly 300 can be manually activated by an adult smoker before being inserted into the device body 100. Alternatively, the pod assembly 300 can be activated while the pod assembly 300 is partially inserted into the device body 100. In one exemplary embodiment, the second housing section 308 of the pod body includes a perforator configured to release a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation from a reservoir in the first housing section 302 during activation of the pod assembly 300. The perforator may take the form of a first activation pin 314a and a second activation pin 314b, which will be discussed in more detail herein.

[0121] To manually activate the pod assembly 300, an adult smoker may press the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b inward before inserting the pod assembly 300 into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100 (e.g., simultaneously or sequentially). For example, the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b may be manually pressed until their ends are substantially flush with the upstream end face of the pod assembly 300. In an exemplary embodiment, the inward movement of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b causes the reservoir seal to be punctured or otherwise broken, thereby releasing a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation therefrom.

[0122] Alternatively, in order to activate the pod assembly 300 when it is partially inserted into the device body 100, the pod assembly 300 is initially positioned such that the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b engage (e.g., upstream engagement) with the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b, respectively. Since each of the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b of the device body 100 can be in the form of a circular knob configured to engage with a corresponding U-shaped notch in the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b, the pod assembly 300 can then be pivoted relatively easily about the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b and enter the through-hole 150 of the device body 100.

[0123] Regarding the pivoting of the pod assembly 300, the axis of rotation can be considered to extend through the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b and be orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the device body 100. During the initial positioning and subsequent pivoting of the pod assembly 300, the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b will contact the upstream sidewall of the through hole 150 and will change from an extended state to a retracted state as the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are pushed (e.g., simultaneously) into the second housing section 308 as the pod assembly 300 travels into the through hole 150. When the downstream end of the pod assembly 300 reaches the vicinity of the downstream sidewall of the through hole 150 and contacts the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b, the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b will retract and then elastically extend (e.g., spring back) when the positioning of the pod assembly 300 allows the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b of the device body 100 to engage (e.g., downstream engagement) with the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b of the pod assembly 300, respectively.

[0124] As described above, according to an exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece 102 is secured to a retaining structure 140 (of which the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b are part). In this configuration, retraction of the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b from the through-hole 150 will cause the mouthpiece 102 to move simultaneously a corresponding distance in the same direction (e.g., downstream). Conversely, when the pod assembly 300 is fully inserted to facilitate downstream engagement, the mouthpiece 102 will spring back simultaneously with the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b. In addition to the resilient engagement of the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b, the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 is also configured to abut against the pod assembly 300 when the pod assembly 300 is properly positioned within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100 (and to align with the pod outlet 304 to form a relatively airtight seal).

[0125] Furthermore, downstream engagement can produce an audible click and / or tactile feedback to indicate that the pod assembly 300 is correctly positioned within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100. When correctly positioned, the pod assembly 300 will be mechanically, electrically, and fluidly connected to the device body 100. Although the non-limiting embodiments herein describe upstream engagement of the pod assembly 300 as occurring prior to downstream engagement, it should be understood that the associated mating, activation, and / or electrical arrangements may be reversed, such that downstream engagement occurs prior to upstream engagement.

[0126] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A partially exploded view of the pod components. (Refer to...) Figure 15 The first housing section 302 includes a vapor passage 316. The vapor passage 316 is configured to receive non-nicotine vapor generated during smoking and is in fluid communication with the pod outlet 304. In one exemplary embodiment, the size (e.g., diameter) of the vapor passage 316 may gradually increase as it extends toward the pod outlet 304. Additionally, the vapor passage 316 may be integrally formed with the first housing section 302. An insert 342 and a seal 344 are provided at the upstream end of the first housing section 302 to define a reservoir for the pod assembly 300. For example, the insert 342 may be positioned within the first housing section 302 such that the outer peripheral surface of the insert 342 engages along an edge (e.g., via an interference fit) with the inner surface of the first housing section 302, such that the interface between the peripheral surface of the insert 342 and the inner surface of the first housing section 302 is impermeable to fluids (e.g., impermeable to liquids and / or impermeable to air). In addition, the seal 344 is attached to the upstream side of the insert 342 to close the reservoir outlet in the insert 342, thereby providing impermeable fluid (e.g., impermeable to liquid and / or impermeable to air) containment of non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations in the reservoir.

[0127] The upstream end of the second housing section 308 defines a pod inlet 322, a first power contact opening 325a, a second power contact opening 325b, a data contact opening 327, a first upstream recess 312a, a second upstream recess 312b, a first pin opening 315a, and a second pin opening 315b. As described above, the pod inlet 322 allows air to enter the pod assembly 300 during smoke extraction, while the first power contact opening 325a, the second power contact opening 325b, and the data contact opening 327 are configured to expose the first power contact 324a, the second power contact 324b, and the data contact 326 of the connector module 320, respectively. In one exemplary embodiment, the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b are mounted on the module housing 354 of the connector module 320. Additionally, the data contact 326 may be disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) 362. Furthermore, the pod inlet 322 may be located between the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b, while the contact openings (e.g., the first power contact opening 325a, the second power contact opening 325b, and the data contact opening 327) may be located between the first pin opening 315a and the second pin opening 315b. The first pin opening 315a and the second pin opening 315b are configured to respectively accommodate the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b extending therethrough.

[0128] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A perspective view of the connector module in the image. Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Another perspective view of the connector module. (Refer to...) Figure 16-17 The overall frame of the connector module 320 includes a module housing 354. Additionally, the connector module 320 has multiple surfaces, including an outer surface and side surfaces adjacent to the outer surface. In one exemplary embodiment, the outer surface of the connector module 320 is formed by the module housing 354, a first power contact 324a, a second power contact 324b, a data contact 326, and the upstream surface of the printed circuit board (PCB) 362. The side surfaces of the connector module 320 may be integral parts of the module housing 354 and are generally orthogonal to the outer surface.

[0129] The pod assembly 300 defines a flow path from the pod inlet 322 to the pod outlet 304. The flow path through the pod assembly 300 specifically includes a first branch portion, a second branch portion, and a confluence portion. The pod inlet 322 is upstream of the first and second branch portions of the flow path. Specifically, as... Figure 16As shown, the sides (e.g., inlet sides) of the module housing 354 (and connector module 320) above the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b are recessed to define a separator 329 together with the initial sections of the first and second branch portions of the flow path. In an exemplary embodiment where the separator 329 is recessed from the outer surface of the module housing 354 (e.g., Figure 16 The side of the module housing 354 above the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b can also be regarded as an inlet portion defining the flow path, which is located downstream of the pod inlet 322 and upstream of the first branch portion and the second branch portion of the flow path.

[0130] The pair of longer sides (e.g., vertical sides) of the module housing 354 are also recessed to define subsequent sections of the first and second branch portions of the flow path. Here, the pair of longer sides of the module housing 354 may alternatively be referred to as lateral surfaces. Figure 16 The area of ​​the module housing 354 covered by the printed circuit board (PCB) 362 (but in the area of ​​the module housing 354) Figure 20 (As shown in the diagram) Together with the confluence of the flow paths, additional sections of the first and second branch portions are defined. Further sections of the first and second branch portions include a first curved section (e.g., a first curved path 330a) and a second curved section (e.g., a second curved path 330b), respectively. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the first and second branch portions converge to form the confluence of the flow paths.

[0131] When the connector module 320 is positioned within the receiving cavity located downstream of the second housing section 308, the non-recessed side of the module housing 354 connects to the sidewall of the receiving cavity of the second housing section 308, while the recessed side of the module housing 354, together with the sidewall of the receiving cavity, defines a first branch portion and a second branch portion of the flow path. The positioning of the connector module 320 within the receiving cavity of the second housing section 308 can be achieved through a close-fitting arrangement, such that the connector module 320 remains substantially stationary within the pod assembly 300.

[0132] like Figure 17As shown, connector module 320 includes a wick 338 configured to transfer a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation to heater 336. Heater 336 is configured to heat the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation during smoking to produce non-nicotine vapor. Heater 336 is electrically connected to at least one electrical contact of connector module 320. For example, one end of heater 336 (e.g., a first end) may be connected to a first power contact 324a, while the other end of heater 336 (e.g., a second end) may be connected to a second power contact 324b. In one exemplary embodiment, heater 336 includes a folded heating element. In this case, wick 338 may have a planar form configured to be held by the folded heating element. When pod assembly 300 is assembled, wick 338 is configured to be in fluid communication with absorbent material such that non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation in absorbent material (when pod assembly 300 is activated) is transferred to wick 338 via capillary action. In this specification, the heater may also be referred to as a heat engine.

[0133] In one exemplary embodiment, the incoming airflow entering the pod assembly 300 through the pod inlet 322 is guided by a separator 329 into a first branch portion and a second branch portion of the flow path. The separator 329 may be wedge-shaped and configured (e.g., at least initially) to split the incoming airflow in opposite directions. The split airflow may include a first airflow (which travels through the first branch portion of the flow path) and a second airflow (which travels through the second branch portion of the flow path). After being separated by the separator 329, the first airflow travels along the inlet side and continues around the corner and along the first side to reach a first curved path 330a. Similarly, the second airflow travels along the inlet side and continues around the corner and along the second side to reach a second curved path 330b (e.g., Figure 20 The confluence of the flow paths is located downstream of the first branch and the second branch. The heater 336 and the suction core 338 are located downstream of the confluence of the flow paths. Therefore, the first airflow is at the confluence of the flow paths (e.g., Figure 20 In the confluence path 330c, it merges with the second airflow to exit through the module outlet 368 in the module housing 354 (e.g., in...). Figure 18 (The middle mark) forms a confluence before reaching the heater 336 and the suction core 338.

[0134] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the absorbent core 338 may be a fiber pad or other structure having pores / gap designed for capillary action. Additionally, the absorbent core 338 may have a rectangular shape, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the absorbent core 338 may have an alternative shape of an irregular hexagon, with two sides sloping inwards and toward the heater 336. The absorbent core 338 may be manufactured in the desired shape or cut from a larger sheet of material into such a shape. With the lower section of the absorbent core 338 tapering towards the winding section (e.g., hexagonal) toward the heater 336, the possibility of non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations being located in a portion of the absorbent core 338 that continuously avoids evaporation (due to its distance from the heater 336) can be reduced or avoided. Furthermore, as described above, the heater 336 may include a folded heating element configured to hold the absorbent core 338. This folded heating element may also include at least one tip configured to extend into the absorbent core 338.

[0135] In one exemplary embodiment, heater 336 is configured to undergo Joule heating (also known as ohmic / resistive heating) when an electric current is applied thereto. More specifically, heater 336 may be formed of one or more conductors and configured to generate heat when an electric current passes through them. The electric current may be supplied from a power source (e.g., a battery) within device body 100 and transmitted to heater 336 via a first power contact 324a or a second power contact 324b.

[0136] Suitable conductors for heater 336 include iron-based alloys (e.g., stainless steel) and / or nickel-based alloys (e.g., nickel-chromium alloys). Heater 336 may be made of a conductive sheet (e.g., metal, alloy) that is stamped to cut a winding pattern from it. The winding pattern may have curved segments arranged alternately with horizontal segments to allow the horizontal segments to zigzag back and forth while extending in parallel. Additionally, the width of each horizontal segment of the winding pattern may be approximately equal to the spacing between adjacent horizontal segments of the winding pattern, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. To obtain the form of heater 336 shown in the figures, the winding pattern may be folded to clamp the wick 338. Furthermore, when the tip is part of heater 336, the protrusions corresponding to the tip are curved (e.g., inward and / or orthogonally) before the winding pattern is folded. As a result of the forked tip, the likelihood of the wick 338 slipping out of heater 336 is reduced or prevented. The heater and related structures are described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 729,909 (Attorney’s File No.: 24000-000371-US), filed on October 11, 2017, entitled “Folded Heater for Electronic Vaping Device,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0137] Reference Figure 15 The first housing section 302 includes a steam passage 316. The steam passage 316 is configured to receive steam generated by the heater 336 and is in fluid communication with the pod outlet 304. In one exemplary embodiment, the size (e.g., diameter) of the steam passage 316 may gradually increase as it extends toward the pod outlet 304. Additionally, the steam passage 316 may be integrally formed with the first housing section 302. An insert 342 and a seal 344 are provided at the upstream end of the first housing section 302 to define a reservoir of the pod assembly 300. For example, the insert 342 may be positioned within the first housing section 302 such that the outer peripheral surface of the insert 342 engages along its edge with the inner surface of the first housing section 302 (e.g., via an interference fit), such that the interface between the peripheral surface of the insert 342 and the inner surface of the first housing section 302 is impermeable to fluids (e.g., impermeable to liquids and / or air). Furthermore, a seal 344 is attached to the upstream side of the insert 342 to close the reservoir outlet in the insert 342, thereby providing fluid-impermeable (e.g., liquid-impermeable and / or gas-impermeable) containment of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation in the reservoir. Hereinafter, the first housing section 302, the insert 342, and the seal 344 may be collectively referred to as the first section. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the first section is configured to hermetically seal the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation until the capsule assembly 300 is activated.

[0138] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the insert 342 includes a retainer portion projecting from an upstream side and a connector portion projecting from a downstream side. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the retainer portion of the insert 342 is configured to retain absorbent material, while the connector portion of the insert 342 is configured to engage with a vapor passage 316 of the first housing segment 302. The connector portion of the insert 342 may be configured to sit within the vapor passage 316 and thus engage with the interior of the vapor passage 316. Alternatively, the connector portion of the insert 342 may be configured to receive the vapor passage 316 and thus engage with the exterior of the vapor passage 316. The insert 342 also defines a reservoir outlet through which a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation flows when the seal 344 is punctured during activation of the pod assembly 300. The retainer portion and the connector portion of the insert 342 may be located between the reservoir outlets (e.g., first and second reservoir outlets), although exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. Furthermore, the insert 342 defines a vapor conduit extending through the retainer portion and the connector portion. As a result, when the insert 342 is in place within the first housing section 302, the steam conduit of the insert 342 will align with and be in fluid communication with the steam passage 316, thereby forming a continuous path through the reservoir to the pod outlet 304 for the non-nicotine vapor generated by the heater 336 during smoking.

[0139] A seal 344 is attached to the upstream side of an insert 342 to cover a reservoir outlet in the insert 342. In one exemplary embodiment, the seal 344 defines an opening (e.g., a central opening) configured to provide a clearance to accommodate a retainer portion (which protrudes from the upstream side of the insert 342) when the seal 344 is attached to the insert 342. When the seal 344 is punctured by a first activation pin 314a and a second activation pin 314b of the pod assembly 300, two perforated sections of the seal 344 are pushed into the reservoir as flaps, thereby creating two perforated openings in the seal 344 (e.g., one on each side of the central opening). The size and shape of the perforated openings in the seal 344 may correspond to the size and shape of the reservoir outlet in the insert 342. Conversely, when in an unpunctured state, the seal 344 may have a planar form and only one opening (e.g., a central opening). The seal 344 is designed to be robust enough to remain intact during normal movement and / or handling of the pod assembly 300, thereby preventing premature / accidental breakage. For example, the seal 344 may be a coated foil (e.g., aluminum-backed Tritan).

[0140] The second housing section 308 may be configured to house various components configured to release, receive, and heat a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation. For example, a first activation pin 314a and a second activation pin 314b are configured to puncture a reservoir in the first housing section 302 to release the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation. Each of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b has a distal end extending through a corresponding one of the first pin opening 315a and the second pin opening 315b in the second housing section 308. In an exemplary embodiment, the distal ends of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are visible after assembly (e.g., Figure 13 The remainder of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are concealed within the capsule assembly 300 and are not visible. Additionally, each of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b has a proximal end positioned adjacent to and upstream of the seal 344 prior to activation of the capsule assembly 300. When the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are pushed into the second housing section 308 to activate the capsule assembly 300, the proximal end of each of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b will advance through the insert 342 and thus puncture the seal 344, releasing the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation from the reservoir. The movement of the first activation pin 314a can be independent of the movement of the second activation pin 314b (and vice versa).

[0141] The absorbent material may be located downstream of and in fluid communication with the absorbent core 338. Furthermore, as described above, the absorbent material may be configured to engage with the retainer portion of the insert 342 (which may protrude from the upstream side of the insert 342). The absorbent material may have an annular form, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the absorbent material may resemble a hollow cylinder. In this case, the outer diameter of the absorbent material may be approximately equal to (or slightly larger than) the length of the absorbent core 338. The inner diameter of the absorbent material may be smaller than the average outer diameter of the retainer portion of the insert 342 to form an interference fit. To facilitate engagement with the absorbent material, the tip of the retainer portion of the insert 342 may be tapered. The absorbent material may be configured to receive and retain a quantity of non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation released from the reservoir when the pod assembly 300 is activated. The absorbent core 338 may be positioned within the pod assembly 300 in fluid communication with the absorbent material, such that the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation may be drawn from the absorbent material to the heater 336 via capillary action. The absorbent core 338 can physically contact the upstream side of the absorbent material. Additionally, the absorbent core 338 can be aligned with the diameter of the absorbent material, although the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0142] like Figure 17 As shown, heater 336 may have a folded configuration to clamp the opposing surfaces of wick 338 and establish thermal contact with the opposing surfaces of wick 338. Heater 336 is configured to heat wick 338 during smoking to produce non-nicotine vapor. To facilitate this heating, a first end of heater 336 may be electrically connected to a first power contact 324a. Figure 16 and 18 The second end of heater 336 can be electrically connected to the second power contact 324b. Figure 16 and 18 As a result, current can be supplied from a power source (e.g., a battery) within the device body 100 and transmitted to the heater 336 via the first power contact 324a or the second power contact 324b. For the sake of brevity, what has already been discussed above (e.g., in conjunction with...) will not be repeated in this section. Figure 16-17 Other related details of the connector module 320. In one exemplary embodiment, the second housing section 308 includes a receiving cavity for the connector module 320. The second housing section 308 and the aforementioned components therein may be collectively referred to as the second part. During smoking, non-nicotine vapor generated by the heater 336 is drawn from the pod outlet 304 of the pod assembly 300 through the steam conduit of the insert 342, through the steam passage 316 of the first housing section 302, and reaches the steam outlet through the steam passage 136 of the mouthpiece 102.

[0143] Figure 18 It does not have a suction core or heater. Figure 17A perspective view of the connector module. Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An exploded view of the connector module. Figure 20 yes Figure 18 Another exploded view of the connector module. (Refer to...) Figure 18-20 The module housing 354 forms the frame of the connector module 320. The module housing 354 specifically defines the separator 329 and the flow path for drawing air into the pod assembly 300. The heating chamber is in fluid communication with the flow path on the upstream side of the module housing 354 via the module outlet 368.

[0144] As described above, the flow path for air entering the pod assembly 300 includes a first branch portion, a second branch portion, and a confluence portion defined by the module housing 354. In an exemplary embodiment, the first branch portion and the second branch portion are symmetrical portions bisected by an axis corresponding to the confluence portion of the flow path. For example, as... Figure 20 As shown, the first branch, the second branch, and the converging section may each include a first curved path 330a, a second curved path 330b, and a converging path 330c, respectively. The first curved path 330a and the second curved path 330b may be generally U-shaped paths, while the converging path 330c may be a generally straight path. Based on an axis corresponding to the converging path 330c and aligned with the top of the separator 329, the first branch of the flow path may be a mirror image of the second branch of the flow path. During smoking, the air drawn in through the pod inlet 322 may be diverted by the separator 329, initially flowing in opposite directions away from the separator 329, then flowing parallel, and then each airflow makes a U-turn (via the first curved path 330a and the second curved path 330b) and merges (via the converging path 330c) to form a confluence, which returns toward the separator 329 before reaching the heating chamber through the module outlet 368. The heater 336 and the suction core 338 can be positioned such that both sides are exposed substantially equally to the combined airflow through the module outlet 368. During smoking, the generated non-nicotine vapor is conveyed by the combined airflow traveling through the heated chamber to the vapor passage 316.

[0145] like Figures 19-20As shown, each of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b may include a contact surface and a contact foot. The contact foot (which may have an elongated configuration) may be orthogonally oriented relative to the contact surface (which may be square), but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. The module housing 354 may define a pair of shallow recesses and a pair of holes to facilitate the mounting of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b. During assembly, the contact surface of each of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b can be positioned in a corresponding one of the pair of shallow recesses, thereby becoming substantially flush with the outer surface of the module housing 354 (e.g., ...). Figure 16 Additionally, the prongs of each of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b can extend through a corresponding one of a pair of holes, thereby protruding from the downstream side of the module housing 354 (e.g., Figure 18 The heater 336 can then be connected to the contact of each of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b.

[0146] Printed circuit board (PCB) 362 includes a plurality of data contacts 326 located on its upstream side (e.g., Figure 20 ) and various electronic components located downstream of it, including sensor 364 (e.g., Figure 19 Sensor 364 can be positioned on printed circuit board (PCB) 362 such that sensor 364 is within the convergence path 330c defined by module housing 354. In an exemplary embodiment, printed circuit board (PCB) 362 (and associated components fixed thereon) is a separate structure that is initially inserted into a receiving cavity located downstream of the second housing segment 308 such that data contact 326 is exposed by data contact opening 327 of the second housing segment 308. Subsequently, module housing 354 (on which first power contact 324a, second power contact 324b, heater 336, and absorbent core 338 are mounted) can be inserted into the receiving cavity such that first power contact 324a and second power contact 324b are exposed by first power contact opening 325a and second power contact opening 325b of the second housing segment 308, respectively. Alternatively, in order to simplify the above two-step insertion process into a one-step insertion process, it should be understood that the printed circuit board (PCB) 362 (and related components fixed thereon) can be attached to the module housing 354 (e.g., to form a single integrated structure) to cover the first bending path 330a, the second bending path 330b, the confluence path 330c and the module outlet 368.

[0147] The module outlet 368 can be a suction resistance (RTD) port. In such a configuration, the suction resistance of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 can be adjusted by changing the size of the module outlet 368 (rather than changing the size of the pod inlet 322). In one exemplary embodiment, the size of the module outlet 368 can be selected such that the suction resistance is between 25 and 100 mmH2O (e.g., between 30 and 50 mmH2O). For example, a 1.0 mm diameter of the module outlet 368 can result in a suction resistance of 88.3 mmH2O. In another case, a 1.1 mm diameter of the module outlet 368 can result in a suction resistance of 73.6 mmH2O. In yet another case, a 1.2 mm diameter of the module outlet 368 can result in a suction resistance of 58.7 mmH2O. In yet another case, a 1.3 mm diameter of the module outlet 368 can result in a suction resistance of approximately 40-43 mmH2O. It is worth noting that, due to its internal arrangement, the size of the module outlet 368 can be adjusted without affecting the external aesthetics of the pod assembly 300, thereby allowing for a more standardized product design for pod assemblies with various suction resistances (RTDs), while also reducing the possibility of accidental blockage and air ingress.

[0148] Exemplary non-nicotine electronic cigarette device system Now refer to Figure 21A-23 An exemplary system of the pod assembly 300 and the device body 100 of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 is discussed below.

[0149] Figure 21A A device system for a distribution entity according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The device system 2100 may be a system within the device entity 100 and the distribution entity 204.

[0150] Device system 2100 includes a controller 2105, a power supply 2110, an actuator control 2115, a device electrical / data interface 2120, device sensors 2125, an input / output (I / O) interface 2130, a steam indicator 2135, at least one antenna 2140, and a storage medium 2145. Device system 2100 is not limited to... Figure 21A The features shown are as follows. For example, device system 2100 may include additional elements. However, for the sake of brevity, these additional elements are not described. In some other exemplary embodiments, device system 2100 may not include an antenna.

[0151] Controller 2105 can be hardware, firmware, hardware executing software, or any combination thereof. When controller 2105 is hardware, such existing hardware may include one or more central processing units (CPUs), microprocessors, processor cores, multiprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), computers, etc., configured as dedicated machines to perform the functions of controller 2105. CPUs, microprocessors, processor cores, multiprocessors, DSPs, ASICs, and FPGAs are generally collectively referred to as processing devices.

[0152] When controller 2105 is or includes processor-executed software, controller 2105 is configured as a dedicated machine (e.g., a processing device) to execute software stored in memory accessible to controller 2105 (e.g., storage medium 2145 or another storage device) to perform the functions of controller 2105. This software may be embodied in program code, including instructions for performing and / or controlling any or all operations described herein as being performed by controller 2105 or controller 2105A. Figure 21B ).

[0153] As discussed herein, the terms "storage medium," "computer-readable storage medium," or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" can refer to one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, magnetic core memory, disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" can include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media capable of storing, containing, or carrying instructions and / or data.

[0154] Figure 21B An example of a controller 2105A according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. According to an exemplary embodiment, Figure 21B The controller 2105A shown is Figure 21A This is an exemplary embodiment of the controller 2105 shown. Therefore, any operation described herein as being performed or controlled by the controller 2105 can be performed or controlled by the controller 2105A. The controller 2105A may be or include a microprocessor. Furthermore, the controller 2105A may include input / output interfaces, such as general purpose input / output (GPIO), internal integrated circuits (I / O), etc. 2 C) Interfaces such as the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) bus; multi-channel analog-to-digital converters (ADCs); clock input terminals, such as... Figure 21BAs shown. However, exemplary embodiments should not be limited to this example. For example, controller 2105A may also include a digital-to-analog converter and one or more arithmetic circuits.

[0155] return Figure 21A The controller 2105 communicates with the power supply 2110, actuator control 2115, body electrical / data interface 2120, device sensor 2125, input / output (I / O) interface 2130, steam indicator 2135, product control 2150 and at least one antenna 2140.

[0156] Controller 2105 communicates with a cryptographic coprocessor within the pod that has a non-volatile memory (CC-NVM) or a non-volatile memory (NVM) via pod electrical / data interface 2120. The term CC-NVM can refer to a hardware module including a processor for encryption and related processing, as well as the NVM. More specifically, controller 2105 can utilize encryption to authenticate pod component 300. As will be described, controller 2105 communicates with a CC-NVM packet or NVM to authenticate pod component 300. More specifically, the non-volatile memory may be encoded with product and other information used for authentication during manufacturing.

[0157] The storage device may be coded with an electronic identity to allow verification of the pod's identity and pairing of at least one of specific operating parameters of the pod assembly 300 (or physical construction, such as heat engine type) when the pod assembly 300 is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. In addition to verification based on the electronic identity of the pod assembly 300, the controller 2105 may authorize the use of the pod based on the expiration date of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation and / or heater stored in the non-volatile memory of the NVM or CC-NVM. If the controller determines that the expiration date encoded in the non-volatile memory has expired, the controller may not authorize the use of the pod and disable the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500.

[0158] Controller 2105 (or storage medium 2145) stores key materials and proprietary algorithm software used for encryption. For example, the encryption algorithm relies on the use of random numbers. The security of these algorithms depends on how random these numbers are. These numbers are typically pre-generated and encoded into a processor or storage device. By generating numbers using vapor extraction parameters (e.g., the duration of a vapor extraction instance, the interval between vapor extraction instances, or combinations thereof), the exemplary embodiment can increase the randomness of the numbers used for encryption, resulting in numbers that are more random and more subjective than pre-generated random numbers. All communication between controller 2105 and the pod can be encrypted.

[0159] Additionally, the pod can serve as a general payload carrier for other information, such as software patches for the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500. Because encryption is used in all communication between the pod and the controller 2105, this information is more secure, making the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 less susceptible to malware or viruses. Using CC-NVM as a carrier for information such as data and software upgrades allows the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 to receive software upgrades without an internet connection, and, like most other consumer electronics devices that require regular software upgrades, allows adult smokers to experience the download process.

[0160] Controller 2105 may also include a cryptographic accelerator to allow the resources of controller 2105 to perform functions other than encoding and decoding related to authentication. Controller 2105 may also include other security features, such as preventing unauthorized use of the communication channel and preventing unauthorized access to data if the user or adult smoker is not authenticated.

[0161] In addition to the cryptographic accelerator, controller 2105 may include other hardware accelerators. For example, controller 2105 may include a floating-point unit (FPU), a separate DSP core, digital filters, and a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) module.

[0162] Controller 2105 is configured to manipulate a real-time operating system (RTOS), control device system 2100, and can be upgraded via communication with NVM or CC-NVM or when device system 2100 is connected to other devices (e.g., smartphones) through I / O interface 2130 and / or antenna 2140. I / O interface 2130 and antenna 2140 allow device system 2100 to connect to various external devices such as smartphones, tablets, and personal computers. For example, I / O interface 2130 may include a micro-USB connector. Device system 2100 can use the micro-USB connector to charge power supply 2110b.

[0163] Controller 2105 may include onboard RAM and flash memory to store and execute code including analysis, diagnostics, and software upgrades. Alternatively, storage medium 2145 may store the code. Additionally, in another exemplary embodiment, storage medium 2145 may be on the motherboard of controller 2105.

[0164] The controller 2105 may also include onboard clock, reset, and power management modules to reduce the PCB coverage area in the distribution body.

[0165] Device sensor 2125 may include multiple sensing transducers that provide measurement information to controller 2105. Device sensor 2125 may include a power supply temperature sensor, an external pod temperature sensor, a heater current sensor, a power supply current sensor, an airflow sensor, and an accelerometer to monitor motion and orientation. The power supply temperature sensor and the external pod temperature sensor may be thermistors or thermocouples, while the heater current sensor and the power supply current sensor may be resistive-based sensors or another type of sensor configured to measure current. The airflow sensor may be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure airflow, such as a hot-wire anemometer. As described above, device sensor 2125 may include sensors, such as accelerometers, for monitoring motion and orientation, such as... Figure 23 As shown in the image.

[0166] Figure 23 A pod system 2200 connected to a device system 2100 is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. For example, device sensor 2125 may include one or more accelerometers 2127A, one or more gyroscopes 2127B, and / or one or more magnetometers 2127C to monitor motion and orientation. For example, device sensor 2125 may include at least one inertial measurement unit (IMU). The IMU may include, for example, a 3-axis accelerometer, a 3-axis gyroscope, and a 3-axis magnetometer. For example, Figure 23 One or more accelerometers 2127A, one or more gyroscopes 2127B, and / or one or more magnetometers 2127C may be included in the IMU. Examples of IMUs included in the device sensors 2125 include, but are not limited to, the Invensense 10-axis MPU-9250 and the ST 9-axis STEVAL-MKI1119V1. References will be made below. Figure 24-2 As discussed in more detail in 5, the controller 2105 can use motion and / or orientation information detected by the device sensor 2125 to control the power level output by the power supply 2110 to the heater 2215 via the pod electrical / data interface 2120 and the main electrical / data interface 2210.

[0167] Data generated from multiple sensing transducers can be sampled at a sampling rate that is appropriate for the parameters measured using independent multi-channel analog-to-digital converters (ADCs).

[0168] The controller 2105 can adjust the heater profile and other profiles of the vapor precursor formulation based on the measurement information received from the controller 2105. For convenience, these profiles are often referred to as evaporation or vapor profiles.

[0169] During the few seconds of steam extraction, the heater profile identifies the power profile to be supplied to the heater. For example, the heater profile may deliver maximum power to the heater at the start of a steam extraction instance, and then immediately reduce the power to half or a quarter after about a second.

[0170] Additionally, the heater profile can be modified based on the negative pressure applied to the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500. Using a MEMS flow sensor allows for the measurement of vapor inhalation intensity and its use as feedback to the controller 2105 to adjust the power delivered to the heater of the pod assembly 300; this power delivery can be referred to as heating or energy delivery.

[0171] When controller 2105 identifies a currently installed pod (e.g., via SKU), it matches the relevant heating profile designed for that particular pod. Controller 2105 and storage medium 2145 store data and algorithms that allow the generation of heating profiles for all SKUs. In another exemplary embodiment, controller 2105 can read the heating profile from the pod. Adult smokers can also adjust the heating profile to suit their preferences.

[0172] like Figure 21A As shown, controller 2105 sends data to power supply 2110 and receives data from power supply 2110. Power supply 2110 includes power supply 2110b and power controller 2110a to manage the power output of power supply 2110b.

[0173] The power source 2110b can be a lithium-ion battery or a variant thereof, such as a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source 2110b can be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lithium-manganese battery, a lithium-cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. Alternatively, the power source 2110b can be rechargeable and includes circuitry that allows the battery to be charged via an external charging device. In this case, when charging, the circuitry supplies power for a desired (or optionally predetermined) number of vapor extraction instances, after which the circuitry must be reconnected to the external charging device.

[0174] Power controller 2110a provides commands to power supply 2110b based on instructions from controller 2105. For example, when the pod is authenticated and an adult smoker activates device system 2100 (e.g., by activating a switch such as a power button, capacitive sensor, or infrared sensor), power supply 2110 can receive a command from controller 2105 to supply power to the pod (via pod electrical / data interface 2120). When the pod is unauthenticated, controller 2105 either does not send a command to power supply 2110 or sends a command to power supply 2110 not to supply power. In another exemplary embodiment, if the pod is unauthenticated, controller 2105 can disable all operation of device system 2100.

[0175] In addition to supplying power to the pod assembly 300, the power supply 2110 also supplies power to the controller 2105. Furthermore, the power controller 2110a can provide feedback to the controller 2105, indicating the performance of the power supply 2110b.

[0176] The controller 2105 transmits data to and receives data from at least one antenna 2140. The at least one antenna 2140 may include a Near Field Communication (NFC) modem and a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) modem and / or other modems for other wireless technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi). In one exemplary embodiment, the communication stack is in the modem, but the modem is controlled by the controller 2105. The Bluetooth LE modem is used for data and control communications with applications on external devices (e.g., smartphones). The NFC modem may be used to pair the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 with applications and retrieval of diagnostic information. Furthermore, the Bluetooth LE modem may be used to provide location information (for adult smokers to locate the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500) or for verification during purchase. Additionally, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 (e.g., the controller 2105) may be configured to selectively lock the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 using Bluetooth communication capabilities (e.g., provided by the Bluetooth LE modem). For example, an adult smoker can use an application (e.g., an app) installed on an external mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone) with Bluetooth communication capabilities to lock the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500, thereby preventing the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 from operating to produce non-nicotine vapor, and to unlock the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500, thereby allowing the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 to operate to produce non-nicotine vapor. Additionally, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the adult smoker can select settings on the app to control the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 such that the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 remains locked (i.e., prevents operation to produce vapor) until the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 is within a desired range of the electronic device on which the app is installed. For example, the adult smoker can use the app to set the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 to remain locked until the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 is within Bluetooth communication range of the electronic device on which the app is installed. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, an adult smoker can use the application to set up a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 such that the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 is locked when it is not paired with an electronic device on which the application is installed, and remains locked until the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 is paired with an electronic device on which the application is installed.

[0177] As described above, the device system 2100 can generate and adjust various profiles for electronic cigarettes. The controller 2105 uses the power supply 2110 and actuator control 2115 to adjust the profiles for adult smokers.

[0178] Actuator control 2115 includes passive and active actuators to adjust a desired steam profile. For example, the dispensing body may include an inlet channel in the nozzle. Actuator control 2115 may control the inlet channel based on commands from controller 2105 associated with the desired steam profile.

[0179] Additionally, actuator control 2115 is used in conjunction with power supply 2110 to supply energy to the heater. More specifically, actuator control 2115 is configured to generate a drive waveform associated with a desired smoking profile. As described above, each possible profile is associated with a drive waveform. When a command indicating a desired smoking profile is received from controller 2105, actuator control 2115 can generate an associated modulated waveform for power supply 2110.

[0180] The controller 2105 provides information to the vapor indicator 2135 to indicate the status and operation occurring to the adult smoker. The vapor indicator 2135 includes a power indicator (e.g., an LED) that is activated when the controller 2105 senses that the adult smoker has pressed a button. The vapor indicator 2135 may also include a vibrator, a speaker, an indicator of the current status of electronic cigarette parameters (e.g., vapor volume) controlled by the adult smoker, and other feedback mechanisms.

[0181] Furthermore, the device system 2100 may include multiple on-product controls 2150 that provide commands from an adult smoker to the controller 2105. The on-product controls 2150 include on / off buttons, which may be, for example, a power switch, a capacitive sensor, or an IR sensor. The on-product controls 2150 may also include a smoking control button (if the adult smoker wishes to bypass the buttonless smoking feature to supply energy to the heater), a hard reset button, a touch-based slider control (for controlling the setting of smoking parameters such as vapor inhalation volume), and a smoking control button for activating the slider control and mechanically adjusting the air intake. Hand-to-mouth posture (HMG) detection is another example of buttonless smoking. Additionally, keystroke combinations (e.g., keystrokes input by an adult smoker via the on-product controls 2150) can be used to lock the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device and prevent the device from operating to generate vapor. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the keystroke combinations may be set by the manufacturer of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or the device system 2100. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, keystroke combinations may be set or changed by an adult smoker (e.g., by keystrokes input by an adult smoker via control 2150 on the product).

[0182] Once the identity of the pod is verified (for example, as mentioned above), Figure 21A(In the manner discussed), controller 2105 operates power supply 2110, actuator control 2115, vapor indicator 2135, and antenna 2140 based on information stored on the pod assembly 300 by an adult smoker using the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 and by the NVM or CC-NVM. Additionally, controller 2105 may include a logging function and is capable of implementing algorithms to calibrate the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500. Controller 2105 performs the logging function to record usage data and any unexpected events or malfunctions. The recorded usage data can be used for diagnostics and analysis. Controller 2105 can calibrate the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 using buttonless smoking (i.e., smoking without pressing a button, such as when non-nicotine vapor is generated when negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece), adult smoker configuration, and information stored on the CC-NVM or NVM (including vapor inhalation sensing, non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation levels, and non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation composition). For example, controller 2105 can command power supply 2110 to supply power to the heater in the pod based on a smoking profile associated with the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation components in the pod assembly 300. Alternatively, the smoking profile can be encoded in a CC-NVM or NVM and used by controller 2105.

[0183] Figure 22A A pod system diagram of a distribution subject according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The pod system 2200 may be in the pod assembly 300.

[0184] like Figure 22A As shown, the pod system 2200 includes a CC-NVM 2205, a main electrical / data interface 2210, a heater 2215, and a pod sensor 2220. The pod system 2200 communicates with the device system 2100 via the main electrical / data interface 2210 and the pod electrical / data interface 2220. For example, the main electrical / data interface 2210 may correspond to... Figure 19 The battery contact 416 and data interface 417 are shown connected in the pod assembly 300. Therefore, the CC-NVM2205 is connected to the data interface 417 and the battery contact 416.

[0185] The CC-NVM 2205 includes a cryptographic coprocessor 2205a and non-volatile memory 2205b. For authentication and to operate the pod via communication with the cryptographic coprocessor 2205a, the controller 2105 can access information stored in the non-volatile memory 2205b.

[0186] In another exemplary embodiment, the pod may not have a cryptographic coprocessor. For example, Figure 22B The illustration shows an embodiment of the invention. Figure 22AAn example of a pod system, where the cryptographic coprocessor 2205a is omitted. For example... Figure 22B As shown, the pod system 2200 may include a non-volatile memory 2205b instead of the CC-NVM 2205, and the cryptographic coprocessor 2205a is omitted. When the cryptographic coprocessor is absent in the pod system 2200, the controller 2105 can read data from the non-volatile memory 2205b without using the cryptographic coprocessor to control / define the heating profile.

[0187] The non-volatile memory 2205b may be coded with an electronic identity to allow verification of the identity of the pod assembly 300 and pairing of at least one of specific operating parameters of the pod assembly 300 when it is inserted into the through-hole of the device body 100. In addition to verification based on the electronic identity of the pod assembly 300, the controller 2105 may authorize the use of the pod based on the expiration date of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation and / or heater stored in the non-volatile memory 2205b. If the controller determines that the expiration date coded in the non-volatile memory 2205b has expired, the controller may not authorize the use of the pod and disable the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500.

[0188] In addition, the non-volatile memory 2205b can store information such as stock units (SKUs) of non-nicotine vapor precursors in the non-nicotine vapor precursor compartment (including non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation components), software patches for the device system 2100, product usage information (e.g., number of vapor inhalations, duration of vapor inhalation instances), and non-nicotine vapor precursor levels. The non-volatile memory 2205b can also store specific operating parameters of a pod and non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation components. For example, the non-volatile memory 2205b can store the electronic and mechanical design of the pod for use by the controller 2105 to determine commands corresponding to the desired smoking profile.

[0189] For example, the level of a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation in the capsule can be determined in one of two ways. In one exemplary embodiment, a capsule sensor 2220 directly measures the level of a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation in the capsule assembly 300.

[0190] In another exemplary embodiment, non-volatile memory 2205b stores the number of vapor extraction instances from the pod, and controller 2105 uses the obtained number of vapor extraction instances in place of the dose of vaporized non-nicotine vapor precursor.

[0191] The controller 2105 and / or storage medium 2145 may store non-nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data, which identifies the operating point of the non-nicotine vapor preformulation component. The non-nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data includes data describing how the flow rate changes with the remaining non-nicotine vapor preformulation level, or data describing how volatility changes with the usage time of the non-nicotine vapor preformulation, and the non-nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data can be used by the controller 2105 for calibration. The non-nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data may be stored in a tabular format by the controller 2105 and / or storage medium 2145. The non-nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data allows the controller 2105 to make the number of vapor extraction instances equal to the dose of vaporized non-nicotine vapor preformulation.

[0192] The controller 2105 writes the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation level and the number of vapor extraction instances back to the non-volatile memory 2205b in the capsule, so that if the capsule is removed from the dispensing body and subsequently reinstalled, the controller 2105 will still know the precise non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation level of the capsule.

[0193] Operating parameters (such as power supply, power duration, and airflow control) are referred to as the smoking profile. Additionally, non-volatile memory 2205b can record information communicated with controller 2105. The non-volatile memory 2205b retains the recorded information even when the dispensing unit is separated from the pod assembly 300.

[0194] In one exemplary embodiment, the non-volatile memory 2205b may be a programmable read-only memory.

[0195] The heater 2215 is actuated by the controller 2105 and transfers heat to at least a portion of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation according to the command profile (volume, temperature (based on the power profile) and aroma) from the controller 2105.

[0196] Heater 2215 may be, for example, a planar body, a ceramic body, a single metal wire, a resistance wire cage, a metal coil with a wound wick, a mesh, a surface, or any other suitable form. Examples of suitable resistive materials include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-containing, titanium-containing, zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, and iron-containing alloys, as well as superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, and stainless steel. For example, the heater may be formed of a nickel-aluminum compound, a material having an alumina layer on its surface, an iron-aluminum compound, and other materials, and the resistive material may optionally be embedded, encapsulated, or covered with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and desired external physicochemical properties. In one embodiment, heater 2215 comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, heater 2215 is formed of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In one embodiment, heater 2215 may be a ceramic heater having a resistive layer on its outer surface.

[0197] In another embodiment, heater 2215 may be made of an iron-aluminum compound (e.g., FeAl or Fe3Al) or a nickel-aluminum compound (e.g., Ni3Al), such iron-aluminum compounds as those described in U.S. Patent No. 5,595,706, filed December 29, 1994, co-owned by Sikka et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0198] Based on feedback from the capsule sensor or controller 2105, the heater 2215 can determine the amount of non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation to be heated. The flow rate of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation can be controlled by microcapillary action or wicking effect. Additionally, the controller 2105 can send commands to the heater 2215 to adjust the inlet of the heater 2215.

[0199] The pod sensor 2220 may include a heater temperature sensor, a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation flow rate monitor, and an airflow monitor. The heater temperature sensor may be a thermistor or a thermocouple, and the pod system 2200 may use electrostatic interference or a rotor in the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation to perform flow rate sensing (e.g., under the control of controller 2105 or a controller included in the pod system 2200). The airflow sensor may be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another sensor configured to measure airflow.

[0200] Data generated from the pod sensor 2220 can be sampled at a sampling rate suitable for the parameters measured using an independent multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

[0201] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the controller 2105 can also control the heater 2215 in response to detecting a hand-to-mouth gesture (HMG). (See above, reference...) Figure 21A According to at least some exemplary embodiments, non-nicotine electronic cigarette devices can implement buttonless smoking features. As an example of the buttonless smoking feature, controller 2105 can determine when an adult smoker is performing a hand-to-mouth motion (HMG) based on measurements from device sensor 2125. An HMG is the gesture of an adult smoker moving their hand towards their mouth. An HMG performed with respect to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device including device body 100) can indicate that vapor inhalation will soon begin. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, controller 2105 can control the state and / or operating mode of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device or one or more of its components based on the detection of HMG. For example, controller 2105 can control the state and / or operating mode of heater 2215 by detecting HMG.

[0202] As described above, heater 2215 can be actuated by controller 2105. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, controller 2105 can control heater 2215 using a thermodynamic control algorithm and a thermodynamic driver implemented by controller 2105. Heater 2215 may also be referred to herein as thermodynamic 2215. Reference will be made below. Figure 27-31 An exemplary structure of a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device is discussed.

[0203] Exemplary structure of heated non-combustible aerosol generating device Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of a heated non-combustible aerosol generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 27The heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000 may include a mouthpiece 1015 and a device body 1025. A power supply 1035 and a control circuit 1045 may be disposed within the device body 1025 of the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000. The heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000 is configured to receive a capsule 800. The capsule 800 is a removable container, similar to the pod assembly 300 of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 discussed. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the capsule 800 may include an aerosol forming matrix sandwiched between first and second heaters. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first and second heaters may be planar and may be formed of a material that heats up when an electric current is applied. The heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000 may also include a first electrode 1055a, a second electrode 1055b, a third electrode 1055c, and a fourth electrode 1055d configured to be in electrical contact with the capsule 800. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first electrode 1055a and the third electrode 1055c may be in electrical contact with the first heater, while the second electrode 1055b and the fourth electrode 1055d may be in electrical contact with the second heater. However, in non-limiting embodiments involving a capsule having only one heater, it should be understood that the first electrode 1055a and the third electrode 1055c (or the second electrode 1055b and the fourth electrode 1055d) may be omitted.

[0204] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming matrix" refers to a material (or combination of materials) capable of generating aerosols. As mentioned herein, "aerosol" is any substance generated or output from any heated non-combustible aerosol generating apparatus according to any exemplary embodiment disclosed herein. This material is in solid form and is the primary source of compounds, wherein heating of the material generates an aerosol containing those compounds. Heating may be below the combustion temperature to generate aerosols without involving significant pyrolysis of the aerosol-forming matrix or significant generation of combustion byproducts (if any). Thus, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, no pyrolysis occurs during heating and the resulting aerosol generation. In other cases, some pyrolysis and combustion byproducts may be present, but their extent may be considered relatively small and / or merely incidental. For example, once the heated non-combustible aerosol generating apparatus heats the aerosol-forming matrix to its aerosolization temperature, the aerosol-forming matrix can generate aerosols. As used herein, the "aerosolization temperature" of the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​the temperature at which the aerosol-forming matrix generates aerosols and is below the ignition point of the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0205] The aerosol-forming matrix can be a fibrous material. For example, the fibrous material can be a plant material. The fibrous material is configured to release a compound when heated. This compound can be a natural component of the fibrous material. For example, the fibrous material can be a plant material such as tobacco, and the released compound can be nicotine. The term "tobacco" includes any tobacco plant material, including those derived from one or more tobacco plants such as yellow tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). Nicotiana rustica ) and Solanaceae tobacco ( Nicotiana tabacum Any tobacco plant material, including tobacco leaves, tobacco tubes, reconstituted tobacco, compressed tobacco, shaped tobacco or powdered tobacco, and combinations thereof.

[0206] In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material may include material from any member of the genus *Nicotiana*. Additionally, the tobacco material may include a mixture of two or more different tobacco varieties. Examples of suitable types of tobacco material that may be used include, but are not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, dark tobacco, Maryland tobacco, oriental tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, mixtures thereof, etc. The tobacco material may be provided in any suitable form, including but not limited to tobacco sheets, processed tobacco material (e.g., bulked or expanded tobacco), processed tobacco stems (e.g., rolled or cut expanded stems), reconstituted tobacco material, mixtures thereof, etc. In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material is in the form of substantially dry tobacco blocks. Furthermore, in some cases, the tobacco material may be mixed and / or combined with at least one of propylene glycol, glycerin, sub-combinations thereof, or combinations thereof.

[0207] Compounds can also be natural components of medicinal plants that have medically acceptable therapeutic effects.

[0208] Furthermore, the compound may be, or may additionally include, non-natural additives subsequently introduced into the fibrous material. In one case, the fibrous material may include at least one of cotton, polyethylene, polyester, rayon, combinations thereof, etc. (e.g., in the form of a mesh). In another case, the fibrous material may be a cellulose material (e.g., non-tobacco). In either case, the introduced compound may contain nicotine and / or edible flavorings. Flavorings may be derived from natural sources, such as plant extracts (e.g., tobacco extracts) and / or artificial sources. In yet another case, when the fibrous material includes tobacco, the compound may be, or may additionally include one or more edible flavorings (e.g., menthol, peppermint, vanilla). Thus, compounds within the aerosol-forming matrix may include natural ingredients and / or non-natural additives. In this regard, it should be understood that the existing levels of natural ingredients in the aerosol-forming matrix can be increased by supplementation. For example, the existing nicotine level in a certain amount of tobacco can be increased by supplementing with an extract containing nicotine.

[0209] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, when the capsule 800 is inserted into the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000, the control circuit 1045 may instruct the power supply 1035 to supply current to the first electrode 1055a, the second electrode 1055b, the third electrode 1055c, and / or the fourth electrode 1055d. The supply of current from the power supply 1035 may be in response to manual operation (e.g., button activation) or automatic operation (e.g., smoking activation). Due to this current, the capsule 800 may be heated to generate an aerosol.

[0210] Other details of the capsule 800 and the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000, including the nozzle 1015, the device body 1025, the power supply 1035, the control circuit 1045, the first electrode 1055a, the second electrode 1055b, the third electrode 1055c, and the fourth electrode 1055d, can be found in U.S. Application No. 15 / 845,501 (Attorney General’s No. 24000DM-000012-US), filed December 18, 2017, entitled “VAPORIZING DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING A COMPOUND USING THE SAME”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The capsules, aerosol-forming matrix, and related aspects discussed in this article are also addressed in U.S. Application No. 16 / 252,951 (Attorney-at-Launch No. 24000NV-000521-US), filed January 21, 2019, entitled "CAPSULE, HEAT-NOT-BURN (HNB) AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICES, AND METHODS OF GENERATING AN AEROSOL," and U.S. Application No. 24000NV-000521-US, filed June 25, 2019, entitled "CAPSULE, HEAT-NOT-BURN (HNB) AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICES, AND METHODS OF GENERATING AN AEROSOL." A more detailed description is provided in 16 / 451,662 (Agent No. 24000NV-000522-US), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0211] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view of another heated non-combustible aerosol generating apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 28The heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 2000 may particularly include a nozzle 2015 and a device body 2025. It should be understood that, with... Figure 27 The features related to the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000 are also applicable to the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 2000, and will not be repeated for the sake of simplicity. Figure 28 As shown, a sensor 2075 may be included to measure the temperature of a capsule within the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 2000. For example, sensor 2075 may be an infrared (IR) sensor configured to perform non-contact temperature sensing of the capsule. Sensor 2075 may be positioned downstream and above the capsule within the device body 2025. Additionally, sensor 2075 may be offset from the aerosol path and oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 2000. In one exemplary embodiment, the longitudinal axis may be orthogonal to a plane corresponding to the capsule surface, and the angle relative to the longitudinal axis may be 8-20 degrees (e.g., 13-15 degrees). As a result, the accumulation and deposition of generated aerosols can be reduced or prevented, thereby improving the performance and lifespan of sensor 2075.

[0212] Figure 29 This is a plan view of the arrangement of a capsule, which is engaged with electrodes and seals of a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A perspective view of the layout structure. Figure 31 yes Figure 30 A side cross-sectional view of the layout structure. (Refer to...) Figures 29-31 The capsule 900 within the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device can engage with a first seal 1165a and a second seal 1165b. The first seal 1165a can engage with the side of the capsule 900 corresponding to the first heater, while the second seal 1165b can engage with the side of the capsule 900 corresponding to the second heater (or vice versa). When engaged, the first seal 1165a and the second seal 1165b can be positioned around the periphery of the cavity to surround the heated non-combustible aerosol forming matrix disposed therein.

[0213] The first electrode 1155a, the second electrode 1155b, the third electrode 1155c, and the fourth electrode 1155d are configured to make electrical contact with the capsule 900. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first electrode 1155a and the third electrode 1155c may then make electrical contact with a first heater, while the second electrode 1155b and the fourth electrode 1155d may make electrical contact with a second heater. However, in a non-limiting embodiment involving a capsule having only one heater, it should be understood that the first electrode 1155a and the third electrode 1155c (or the second electrode 1155b and the fourth electrode 1155d) may be omitted.

[0214] When engaged with the heater, the first electrode 1155a and the third electrode 1155c are located within the area defined by the first seal 1165a, while the second electrode 1155b and the fourth electrode 1155d are located within the area defined by the second seal 1165b. The first electrode 1155a and the third electrode 1155c may also be adjacent to opposite sides of the first seal 1165a, such that the first heater is pressed against the underlying first frame. Similarly, the second electrode 1155b and the fourth electrode 1155d may be adjacent to opposite sides of the second seal 1165b, such that the second heater is pressed against the underlying second frame. In an exemplary embodiment involving a third frame, the heater may be pressed against the underlying third frame via the electrodes.

[0215] The first electrode 1155a, the second electrode 1155b, the third electrode 1155c, and the fourth electrode 1155d can be in the form of blades. Alternatively, to reduce contact resistance, the first electrode 1155a, the second electrode 1155b, the third electrode 1155c, and the fourth electrode 1155d can be formed of steel and coated with titanium nitride. In one exemplary embodiment, the blades can be straight-edged. Alternatively, in cases where the heater has an uneven surface (e.g., a heater in the form of a mesh), the blades can be serrated to enhance electrical contact.

[0216] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first electrode 1155a, the second electrode 1155b, the third electrode 1155c, the fourth electrode 1155d, the capsule 900, the first seal 1165a, and the second seal 1165d may be included in the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first electrode 1155a, the second electrode 1155b, the third electrode 1155c, the fourth electrode 1155d, and the capsule 900 are examples of the first electrode 1055a, the second electrode 1055b, the third electrode 1055c, the fourth electrode 1055d, and the capsule 800.

[0217] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the control circuit 1045 and power supply 1035 of the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device 1000 are respectively referenced above. Figure 21A-23 The discussed device system 2100 and power supply 2110 are embodied. Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the capsule 800 includes control circuitry, and the control circuitry of the capsule 800 is as described above. Figure 21A-23 The pod system 2200 is discussed.

[0218] Examples of heat engine control algorithms according to at least some exemplary embodiments will be referenced below. Figure 24-25G Let's discuss this in more detail.

[0219] Overview of Heat Engine Control Algorithms First, refer to Figure 24 This section provides an overview of the heat engine control algorithm 2300 and its related inputs. The following will refer to... Figure 25A-26 This describes exemplary embodiments of a heat engine control algorithm 2300 according to at least some exemplary embodiments. Exemplary embodiments of the heat engine control algorithm 2300 include, but are not limited to, a setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A (…). Figures 25A-25B Adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B Figure 25C-25D Temperature and heat engine control algorithm 2300C ( Figure 25E-25F ) and waveform thermodynamic control algorithm 2300D ( Figure 25G-25H In addition, the following will refer to... Figure 26 Exemplary implementations of a buttonless smoking function 2310 are discussed, which can provide a smoking mode as input to one or more of thermodynamic control algorithms 2300, 2300A, 2300B, 2300C, and 2300D. For simplicity, the following description will primarily refer to the device system 2100 and the pod system 2200 of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. Figure 24-26 The algorithm. However, as mentioned above, the heated non-combustible aerosol generating devices 1000 and 2000 may also include device system 2100 and pod system 2200. Therefore, the following description refers to a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500) or its components. Figure 24-26 The details of the algorithm can also be applied to heated non-combustible aerosol generating devices 1000 and 2000 or their components. Furthermore, the following description refers to non-nicotine vapors or non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations. Figure 24-26 The details of the algorithm can also be applied to aerosols or aerosol-forming matrices, respectively.

[0220] Refer to 24, Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating a heat engine control algorithm 2300 and related inputs according to at least one exemplary embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 24According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the heat engine control algorithm 2300 generates a power level value, and the heat engine driver 2305 controls the power supplied to the heat engine 2215 based on the generated power level (e.g., using pulse width modulation (PWM) or another known method). For example, the heat engine driver 2305 may control the amount of electricity supplied to the heat engine 2215 via the host electrical / data interface 2210. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, both the heat engine control algorithm 2300 and the heat engine driver 2305 are implemented by a controller 2105 of a device system 2100 included in a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500). Therefore, any or all operations described herein as being performed by either the heat engine control algorithm 2300 or the heat engine driver 2305 can be performed by the controller 2105.

[0221] like Figure 24 As shown, the heat engine control algorithm 2300 can use one or more of a plurality of inputs to generate the power level supplied to the heat engine driver 2305. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the inputs to the heat engine control algorithm 2300 may include, but are not limited to: a smoking pattern generated by the buttonless smoking function 2310, one or more operating points generated by the first calibration mapping function 2320, a predicted temperature of the heat engine 2215 generated by the heat engine temperature prediction function 2330, heat engine temperature and electrical performance values ​​provided by the heat engine sensor 2222 (which may be included in the pod sensor 2220), airflow rate and wick humidity values ​​provided by the pod sensor 2220, smoking profile information provided by the adult smoker smoking profile update function 2340, non-nicotine e-cigarette device temperature information provided by the device sensor 2125, non-nicotine vapor precursor material level and / or flow rate information provided by the level and flow rate prediction function 2350, battery health information provided by the battery health function 2360, and time information provided by the clock 2370. The pod sensor 2220 may also be referred to herein as a smart pod sensor 2220. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the thermodynamic control algorithm operates in at least three states: a closed state, a preheating state, and an open state. The closed, preheating, and open states may also be referred to herein as "smoking mode states" or "operating modes."

[0222] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the off state is a state in which the heat engine control algorithm 2300 controls the heat engine driver 2305 to supply a relatively low amount of electricity to the heat engine 2215 or alternatively, no electricity is supplied; the preheating state is a state in which the heat engine control algorithm 2300 controls the heat engine driver 2305 to supply a higher amount of electricity to the heat engine 2215 than the amount supplied in the off state; and the on state is a state in which the heat engine control algorithm 2300 controls the heat engine driver 2305 to supply a higher amount of electricity to the heat engine 2215 than the amount supplied in the preheating state. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the amount of electricity supplied to the heat engine 2215 during the preheating operating mode is the amount that causes the heat engine 2215 to heat the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation stored in the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 to a temperature below the boiling point of the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation (or the aerosol generation temperature of the aerosol forming matrix of the capsule 800), while the amount of electricity supplied to the heat engine 2215 during the second operating mode is the amount that causes the heater to heat the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation stored in the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 to a temperature equal to or higher than the boiling point of the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation (or the aerosol generation temperature of the aerosol forming matrix of the capsule 800).

[0223] The following will refer to Figure 25A , 25B Discuss the setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A and the buttonless smoking function 2310 in section 26.

[0224] Exemplary setpoint heat engine control algorithm Figure 25A This is a block diagram illustrating a setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A according to at least some exemplary embodiments. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A is... Figure 24 An exemplary implementation of the heat engine control algorithm 2300 shown is illustrated.

[0225] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the setpoint thermoelectric control algorithm 2300A is implemented by a controller 2105 of a device system 2100 included in a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500). Therefore, any or all operations described herein as being performed by the setpoint thermoelectric control algorithm 2300A (or elements thereof) can be performed by the controller 2105.

[0226] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, in the setpoint engine control algorithm 2300A, a set power level is provided directly based on an external configuration. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the power level applied to engine 2215 (e.g., via engine driver 2305) is static throughout the entire activation cycle of engine 2215 or alternatively throughout the entire duration of the smoking mode. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a single power level is sent to engine driver 2305, and the electrical quantity applied to engine 2215 by engine driver 2305 is proportional to the power level sent to engine driver 2305. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, engine driver 2305 can set the power level output to engine 2215 immediately upon receiving a single power level (e.g., by adjusting the duty cycle of the pulse-width modulation drive signal applied to engine 2215).

[0227] refer to Figure 25A The setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A can operate based on inputs received from the clock 2370, the thermodynamic sensor 2222 (which may be included in the smart pod sensor 2220), the buttonless smoking function 2310, and the first calibration mapping function 2320. Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can operate based on inputs received from the AV smoking profile update function 2340.

[0228] The clock 2370, the thermal sensor 2222, the buttonless smoking function 2310, the first calibration mapping function 2320, and the AV smoking profile update function 2340 will be discussed in more detail below.

[0229] Clock 2370 outputs a periodic timing signal according to a known method. Heat engine sensor 2222 detects heat engine temperature and / or electrical performance values ​​associated with heat engine 2215 according to a known method. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the heat engine sensor provides the detected heat engine temperature and / or electrical performance values, for example, as feedback values ​​to heat engine driver 2305. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, heat engine driver 2305 adjusts the electrical quantity supplied to heat engine 2215 based on the feedback values. Reference will now be made to... Figure 26 Discussion of buttonless smoking function 2310.

[0230] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the buttonless smoking function 2310 outputs one of three states as the current smoking mode state to the setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A: off state, preheating state, and on state. Figure 26This is a flowchart illustrating a buttonless smoking function 2310 according to at least some exemplary embodiments. The buttonless smoking function 2310 may be implemented by a controller 2105. Therefore, any or all operations described herein performed by the buttonless smoking function 2310 may be performed by a controller 2105 of a device system 2100 included in a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500).

[0231] Reference Figure 26 Initially, the buttonless smoking function 2310 outputs a closed state. For example, in operation S2410, the buttonless smoking function 2310 outputs a closed state as the current smoking mode state.

[0232] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the buttonless smoking function 2310 changes the current smoking mode state from a closed state to an open state based on the detection of vapor extraction during a closed state. For example, in operation S2420, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines whether vapor extraction is occurring. For example, the buttonless smoking function 2310 may determine whether vapor extraction is occurring based on airflow information generated by the pod sensor 2220 and / or the device sensor 2124. For example, if the airflow information indicates that the amount of airflow is higher than a threshold, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines that vapor extraction is occurring. If vapor extraction occurs during a closed state, the buttonless smoking function 2310 proceeds to operation S2470. In operation S2470, the buttonless smoking function 2310 changes the current smoking mode state from a closed state to an open state and outputs the open state as the current smoking mode state.

[0233] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the buttonless smoking function 2310 transitions the current smoking mode state from the off state to the preheating state based on the detection of a hand-to-mouth (HMG) gesture during the off state. HMG is a gesture in which an adult smoker moves their hand toward their mouth. HMG occurring with respect to a non-nicotine e-cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 and / or a non-nicotine e-cigarette device including device body 100 or dispensing body 204) can indicate that vapor inhalation may soon begin. Exemplary methods for detecting HMG are discussed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0108840, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0234] Returning to operation S2420, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, if no vapor extraction has occurred during the off state, the buttonless smoking function 2310 proceeds to operation S2430. In operation S2430, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines whether HMG has occurred. If HMG has occurred during the off state, the buttonless smoking function 2310 proceeds to operation S2440. In operation S2440, the buttonless smoking function 2310 changes the current smoking mode state from the off state to the preheating state and outputs the preheating state as the current smoking mode state. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the buttonless smoking function 2310 maintains the off state as the current smoking mode state until the buttonless smoking function 2310 detects either vapor extraction or HMG. For example, after returning to operation S2430, if no HMG has occurred during the off state, the buttonless smoking function 2310 maintains the off state as the current smoking mode state and returns to operation S2420.

[0235] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, upon returning to operation S2440, the buttonless smoking function 2310 changes the current smoking mode state from the preheating state to the on state based on the detection of steam extraction during the preheating state. For example, the buttonless smoking function 2310 transitions from operation S2440 to operation S2450. In operation S2450, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines whether steam extraction is occurring. If steam extraction occurs during the preheating state, the buttonless smoking function 2310 transitions to operation S2470, thereby changing from the preheating state to the on state. As described above, in operation S2470, the buttonless smoking function 2310 outputs the on state as the current smoking mode state.

[0236] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the buttonless smoking function 2310 transitions from a preheating state to an off state based on the occurrence of a preheating timeout event during the preheating state. For example, in operation S2450, if steam extraction has not occurred during the preheating state, the buttonless smoking function 2310 proceeds to operation S2460. In operation S2460, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines whether a preheating timeout event has occurred. When the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines that the amount of time spent in the preheating state exceeds the preheating timeout value, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines that a preheating timeout event has occurred. If the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines that a preheating timeout event has occurred during the preheating state, the buttonless smoking function 2310 proceeds to operation S2410, thereby transitioning the current smoking mode state from the preheating state to the off state. As described above, in operation S2410, the buttonless smoking function 2310 outputs the off state as the current smoking mode state.

[0237] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the buttonless smoking function 2310 maintains the preheating state as the current smoking mode state until the buttonless smoking function 2310 detects either steam extraction or preheating timeout. For example, after returning to operation S2460, if no preheating timeout event has occurred during the preheating state and no steam extraction has been detected, the buttonless smoking function 2310 maintains the preheating state and returns to operation S2450.

[0238] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, upon returning to operation S2470, the buttonless smoking function 2310 transitions from an on state to an off state based on the detection of the end of steam extraction or a smoking timeout event. For example, the buttonless smoking function 2310 transitions from operation S2470 to operation S2480. In operation S2480, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines whether the steam extraction has ended or whether a smoking timeout event has occurred. For example, based on airflow information generated by the pod sensor 2220 and / or device sensor 2124, the buttonless smoking function 2310 can determine whether the steam extraction detected in step S2420 or step S2450 has ended. For example, if the airflow information indicates that the airflow has dropped below a threshold after steam extraction is detected, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines that the steam extraction has ended. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the threshold used to detect the start of a steam extraction situation in operation S2420 or S2450 may have a different value than the threshold used to detect the end of a steam extraction situation in operation S2480.

[0239] Furthermore, when the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines that the amount of time spent in the on state exceeds the smoking timeout value, the buttonless smoking function 2310 determines that a smoking timeout event has occurred. If the buttonless smoking function 2310 detects the end of the steam extraction or a timeout event during the on state, the buttonless smoking function 2310 proceeds to operation S2410, thereby changing the current smoking mode state from the on state to the off state. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the buttonless smoking function 2310 maintains the on state as the current smoking mode state until the buttonless smoking function 2310 detects either the end of the steam extraction or a smoking timeout event. For example, after returning to operation S2480, if no smoking timeout event has occurred during the on state and no end of the current steam extraction has been detected, the buttonless smoking function 2310 maintains the on state and repeats operation S2480.

[0240] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the buttonless smoking function 2310 may determine whether a preheating timeout event has occurred in operation S2460 and / or in operation S2480 based on a timer value including a preheating timeout value and / or a smoking timeout value. For example, when the buttonless smoking function 2310 detects that the preheating smoking state duration has exceeded the preheating timeout value, the buttonless smoking function 2310 may... Figure 26 In operation S2460, a preheating timeout event is determined to have occurred. The preheating timeout value can be, for example, 1-2 seconds. Furthermore, when the buttonless smoking function 2310 detects that the smoking state duration has exceeded the smoking timeout value, the buttonless smoking function 2310 can... Figure 26 In operation S2480, a smoking timeout event is determined to have occurred. For example, the smoking timeout value can be 7-10 seconds. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the buttonless smoking function 2310 can use a clock signal output by clock 2370 to track the duration of continuous on or preheating smoking state. Furthermore, the preheating timeout and smoking timeout values ​​are not limited to the exemplary time lengths discussed above. For example, the duration of the preheating timeout value and / or the smoking timeout value can be set, for example, according to the preferences of the designer or manufacturer of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500.

[0241] Furthermore, although the buttonless smoking function 2310 is described above as determining the current smoking mode state as one of three states (i.e., off, preheating, and on), according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the preheating state can be omitted, and the buttonless smoking function 2310 can determine the current smoking mode state as only one of two states: on and off. For example, refer to Figure 26 When the preheating state is omitted, the buttonless smoking function 2310 can omit operations S2430, S2440, S2450, and S2460. Furthermore, when the preheating state is omitted, the buttonless smoking function 2310 can execute operation S2420 without switching to the preheating state. For example, the buttonless smoking function can execute operation S2420 by maintaining the off state (N) when no steam extraction is detected, and switch to operation S2470 in response to the detection of steam extraction (Y), thereby changing the current smoking mode state from the off state to the on state. Additionally, when the preheating state is omitted, the buttonless smoking function 2310 can, as described above... Figure 26 The remaining operations S2410, S2470, and S2480 are performed in the same manner. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the buttonless smoking function 2310 follows the above description... Figure 26 The discussed operation continuously determines the current smoking mode state and continuously outputs the determined current smoking mode. The first calibration mapping function 2320 will now be discussed below.

[0242] The first calibration mapping function 2320 outputs the operating point to the setpoint thermal engine control algorithm 2300A. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the operating point corresponds to a power value or power level, examples of which include, but are not limited to, 1W, 2.567W, 20W, 32.15W, and 52.663W.

[0243] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 reads one or more operating points from a removable pod mounted in a non-nicotine e-cigarette device and outputs one of the one or more operating points to a setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A. For example, a non-nicotine e-cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500) implementing the first calibration mapping function 2320 may be configured to detect power information from a removable pod assembly 300 mounted in the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500. The power information read from the pod assembly 300 may include one or more operating points. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the power information read from the pod assembly 300 may include operating points for each smoking mode state (i.e., preheating, on, and off). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the power information read from the pod assembly 300 may include operating points for the preheating and on states, but exclude operating points for the off state.

[0244] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 reads multiple operating points from the removable pod; receives a coarse preference level from the AV smoking profile update function 2340; selects one or more operating points corresponding to the coarse preference level from the read operating points; and outputs the selected one or more operating points to the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the power information read by the first calibration mapping function 2320 from the pod assembly 300 may include operating points for every possible combination of coarse preference level and smoking mode state (preheating, on, and off). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the power information read from the pod assembly 300 may include operating points for each coarse preference level with respect to the on state, only one operating point for the preheating state, and only one operating point for the off state (or, alternatively, no operating points).

[0245] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 reads the operating point from the removable pod; receives a fine preference level from the AV smoke profile update function 2340; adjusts the read operating point based on the fine preference level; and outputs the adjusted operating point to the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A. For example, the fine preference level received from the AV smoke profile update function 2340 may indicate the adjustment to be made to the operating point. For example, the fine preference level may indicate the adjustment direction and adjustment amount (e.g., sign and magnitude: +3W, -4.823W, +10.645W, etc.).

[0246] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can generate an operating point based on both a coarse preference level and a fine preference level, wherein each preference level is received from the AV smoke profile update function 2340. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 reads a plurality of operating points from a removable pod; receives a coarse preference level from the AV smoke profile update function 2340; selects an operating point corresponding to the coarse preference level from the read operating points; receives a fine preference level from the AV smoke profile update function 2340; adjusts the selected operating point based on the fine preference level; and outputs the adjusted operating point to the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A.

[0247] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 is implemented by a controller 2105 of a device system 2100 included in a non-nicotine e-cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500). Therefore, any or all operations described herein as being performed by the first calibration mapping function 2320 can be performed or controlled by the controller 2105. The AV smoking profile update function 2340, coarse preference level, and fine preference level will now be discussed in more detail below.

[0248] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 outputs one or both of the coarse preference level and the fine preference level discussed above with reference to the first calibration mapping function 2320. An example of the AV smoking profile update function 2340 that outputs a coarse preference level will now be discussed below.

[0249] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, an adult smoker can manipulate the input device of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 to select one of several coarse preference levels. For example, as referenced above... Figure 21A and 21BAs indicated, the device body 100 of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 may include on-product controls 2150. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the on-product controls 2150 may include any device or multiple devices capable of being manually manipulated by an adult smoker to indicate the selection of a value. Exemplary embodiments include, but are not limited to, one or more buttons, dials, capacitive sensors, and sliders. For example, when the on-product controls 2150 include a slider, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 may be able to detect the position of an adult smoker's finger along the length of the slider using known methods. For example, the slider may include a capacitive sensor extending along the length of the slider. Furthermore, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 may be able to detect the position of an adult smoker's finger touching the capacitive sensor along the length of the slider based on a signal generated by the capacitive sensor using known methods. As another example, the slider may include a mechanical element coupled to a track extending along the length of the slider. This mechanical element may be configured to slide up and down along the track by an adult smoker's finger. Furthermore, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 may be able to detect the position of the mechanical element along the length of the slider.

[0250] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the length of the slider can be divided into multiple consecutive regions, and multiple coarse preference levels can be assigned to said multiple consecutive regions respectively. For example, in the case where five coarse preference levels are assigned to five consecutive regions of the slider length respectively, an adult smoker can select a specific preference level from the five coarse preference levels by manipulating the slider (e.g., by moving the adult smoker's finger and / or mechanical element to a position along the slider length that is within the region assigned to the specific coarse preference level). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the slider can be implemented as one or more capacitive touch sensors.

[0251] In addition to, or as an alternative to, including a slider, the product control 2150 may include one or more buttons that facilitate selection of a specific preference level from the coarse preference levels discussed above. For example, in Figure 1 In the example shown, the allocation subject includes a first button 118 and a second button 120. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a coarse preference level (e.g., 5 coarse preference levels) can be cycled through in response to manipulation of one or both of the first button 118 and the second button 120. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first and second buttons are implemented as touch sensors, which can be mechanical (e.g., mechanical buttons) and / or capacitive (e.g., capacitive sensors).

[0252] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the device body 100 may provide an indication (e.g., visual, tactile, and / or auditory indication) for identifying the currently selected coarse preference level from a plurality of available coarse preference levels. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the second button 120 is an intensity button, and actuation of the second button 120 may move the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 from the current coarse preference level to the next coarse preference level. Furthermore, Figure 1 The light guide component shown can identify the currently selected coarse preference level by providing different visual indications for each different coarse preference level (e.g., by changing the color, length, size, and / or brightness of the light emitted by the light guide component).

[0253] Next, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 outputs the selected coarse preference level to the first calibration mapping function 2320. Furthermore, the five coarse preference levels can each correspond to five operating points read by the first calibration mapping function 2320 from a removable pod (e.g., pod assembly 300) installed in the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. Therefore, the first calibration mapping function 2320 outputs an operating point corresponding to the received coarse preference level from among the five operating points read from the removable pod. An example of the AV smoking profile update function 2340 outputting fine preference levels will now be discussed below.

[0254] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, an adult smoker can manipulate an input device to select one of a plurality of fine preference levels. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the input device may be a wireless electronic device (e.g., a wireless communication device), examples of which include, but are not limited to, smartphones and tablets. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the electronic device executes an application or app that an adult smoker can use to select a precise preference value for adjusting the work point. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a non-nicotine e-cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500) and the wireless electronic device can communicate wirelessly with each other using any known wireless technology (e.g., via a wireless communication link), examples of which include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, wireless USB, IEEE 802.11, etc. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the electronic device is a smartphone running an app that enables the smartphone to create a graphical user interface (GUI) that an adult smoker can interact with to select a fine preference level. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the GUI includes an app slider. The app slider may be an image of a slider output to the smartphone's display, and the adult smoker can manipulate the smartphone using the smartphone's touchscreen, buttons, and / or other input devices. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the app slider enables an adult smoker to adjust the operating point (e.g., 7W) in a fine or precise manner. For example, if the initial operating point is 7W, and the app slider allows the adult smoker to adjust the initial operating point in 1mW increments within a range of ±128mW, the adult smoker can select an adjusted operating point between 6872mW and 7128mW. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a smartphone can wirelessly transmit a fine preference level indicating the adjustment selected by the adult smoker to a non-nicotine e-cigarette device via the app slider. On the non-nicotine e-cigarette device, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 receives the fine preference level and provides it to the first calibration mapping function 2320. As noted above, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can adjust the operating point using the fine preference level received from the AV smoking profile update function 2340 before outputting the adjusted operating point to the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A.

[0255] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 writes a coarse preference level and / or a fine preference level selected by an adult smoker into the memory (e.g., non-volatile memory 2205b) of a removable pod (e.g., removable pod assembly 300) installed in a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500). Therefore, when the removable pod (e.g., pod assembly 300) is reinstalled into the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device after being removed for a period of time, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can read the coarse preference level and / or fine preference level previously selected by the adult smoker from the memory of the reinstalled removable pod. Furthermore, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can use the pre-selected coarse preference level and / or fine preference level to generate an adjusted operating point.

[0256] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 writes smoking profile entries to a smoking profile database. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the smoking profile database may be stored in the memory (e.g., storage medium 2145) of the allocation body (e.g., device body 100) of a non-nicotine e-cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500). Each smoking profile entry may include a coarse preference level and / or a fine preference level selected by an adult smoker, and formulation type information (e.g., a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation identifier) ​​that identifies the formulation type of the vapor precursor formulation contained in the removable capsule installed in the non-nicotine e-cigarette device when the adult smoker selects the coarse preference level and / or fine preference level. Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, when a new, unused removable capsule is installed in a non-nicotine e-cigarette device, the first calibration mapping function 2320 may read the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation identifier of the new removable capsule and compare the read non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation identifier with the smoking profile entry stored in the smoking profile database. When the first calibration mapping function 2320 identifies a smoking profile entry with a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation identifier that matches the identifier of the newly installed removable pod, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can read the coarse preference level and / or fine preference level contained in the identified smoking profile entry. Furthermore, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can use the read coarse preference level and / or fine preference level to generate an adjusted operating point. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can read the identity (e.g., formulation type) of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation of the removable pod in the same manner as discussed above regarding the first calibration mapping function 2320 reading from an image (e.g., a QR code) located on the removable pod (e.g., pod assembly 300) or the memory of the removable pod.

[0257] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 tracks the coarse preference level and / or fine preference level selected by an adult smoker over time, and stores the tracked coarse preference level and / or fine preference level in the memory of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 (e.g., the storage medium 2145 of the device body 100 of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500). Furthermore, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 can determine a predicted coarse preference level based on the tracked coarse preference level and / or determine a predicted fine preference level based on the tracked fine preference level. The predicted coarse preference level and the predicted fine preference level may also be referred to herein as predicted smoking preference levels.

[0258] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the predicted coarse priority value is the average, median, or mode of the tracked coarse preference levels. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the predicted coarse preference value is the average, median, or mode of the tracked coarse preference levels falling within a window (e.g., the last 10 tracked coarse preference levels). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the predicted coarse priority value is a weighted average of the tracked coarse preference levels.

[0259] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the predicted fine priority value is the mean, median, or mode of the tracked fine preference levels. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the predicted fine priority value is the mean, median, or mode of the tracked fine preference levels that fall within a window (e.g., the last 10 tracked fine preference levels). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the predicted fine priority value is a weighted average of the tracked fine preference levels.

[0260] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 can calculate different predicted smoking priority values ​​for different times of day. An exemplary time of day is a period of time during the day (e.g., 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, etc.). Therefore, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 can calculate a predicted coarse preference level for the morning based solely on the coarse preference level tracked in the morning (e.g., 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM), and a predicted coarse preference level for the afternoon based solely on the coarse preference level tracked in the afternoon (e.g., 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM). Furthermore, the AV smoking profile update function 2340 can calculate a predicted fine preference level for the morning based solely on the fine preference level tracked in the morning (e.g., 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM), and a predicted fine preference level for the afternoon based solely on the fine preference level tracked in the afternoon (e.g., 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM). The AV smoking profile update function 2340 can store the predicted smoking preference level mentioned above in the memory of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 (e.g., the storage medium 2145 of the device body 100 of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, after activating the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can determine the current time (e.g., 2 PM); read the stored smoking preference level corresponding to the current time (e.g., a coarsely predicted preference value for the afternoon and a coarsely predicted preference level for the afternoon) from the memory of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500, and use the read smoking preference level to generate an adjusted operating point.

[0261] return Figure 25A The setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A may further include a time-decreasing operation 2610, a first transfer curve selection operation 2620, a smoking pattern recognition operation 2630, and a first power level setting operation 2640. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, any one or all of the time-decreasing operation 2610, the first transfer curve selection operation 2620, the smoking pattern recognition operation 2630, and the first power level setting operation 2640 of the setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A may be executed continuously. The time-decreasing operation 2610 will now be discussed in more detail below.

[0262] The time decrement operation 2610 decrements the timer value based on the current time input from clock 2370. As discussed in more detail below, the timer value can be used by other operations, including, for example, the first power level setting operation 2640. The first transition curve selection operation 2620 will now be discussed in more detail below.

[0263] In the first transfer curve selection operation 2620, the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A can select a transfer curve from one or more transfer curves received from the first calibration mapping function 2320 and provide the selected transfer curve to the first power level setting operation 2640. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the transfer curve output by the first transfer curve selection operation can be one of a plurality of operating points output from the first calibration mapping function 2320 to the first transfer curve selection operation 2620.

[0264] For example, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can provide an operating point for each of a variety of smoking mode states. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the operating points provided by the first calibration mapping function 2320 to the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A include two operating points: an operating point for the preheating smoking mode state and an operating point for the activation of the smoking mode state. However, alternatively, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can provide a series of operating points for one or both of the preheating and activation smoking mode states, the levels of which vary with time, as will be referred to below. Figure 25G and 25H To be discussed in more detail.

[0265] return Figure 25AAs described above, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first calibration mapping function 2320 can output multiple operating points corresponding to various smoking mode states. The first transfer curve selection operation 2620 can select one of the operating points output by the first calibration mapping function 2320 based on the current smoking mode (e.g., off, preheating, or on) of the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A. The first transfer curve selection operation 2620 can provide a transfer curve corresponding to the selected operating point to the first power level setting operation 2640. For example, if the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A is in the preheating smoking mode state, the first transfer curve selection operation 2620 can provide the first power level setting operation 2640 with a transfer curve corresponding to the preheating smoking mode state. Similarly, if the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A is in the on smoking mode state, the first transfer curve selection operation 2620 can provide the first power level setting operation 2640 with a transfer curve corresponding to the on smoking mode state. Furthermore, if the setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A is in a smoke-off mode state, the first transfer curve selection operation 2620 can provide the first power level setting operation 2640 with a transfer curve corresponding to the smoke-off mode state. If the selected transfer curve does not include a portion corresponding to the smoke-off mode state, then, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first transfer curve selection operation 2620 can provide the first power level setting operation 2640 with a default transfer curve corresponding to providing a low level of power to the heat engine 2215 or no power for the smoke-off mode state. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first transfer curve selection operation 2620 selects a transfer curve to provide to the first power level setting operation 2640 based on smoke mode state information received from the smoke mode recognition operation 2630. The smoke mode recognition operation 2630 will now be discussed in more detail below. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the transfer curve provided by the first transfer curve selection operation 2620 may be or correspond to a power value.

[0266] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the smoking pattern recognition operation 2630 determines the current smoking mode state (e.g., off, preheating, or on) of the setpoint thermostat control algorithm 2300A based on the current smoking mode state output of the buttonless smoking function 2310. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the buttonless smoking function 2310 is referenced above. Figure 26The current smoking mode state is output in a manner discussed. As described above, the first transition curve selection operation 2620 can use the smoking mode state received from the smoking mode recognition operation 2630 to select which transition curve to provide to the first power level setting operation 2640. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the smoking mode recognition operation 2630 may be omitted, and the first transition curve selection operation 2620 may receive the smoking mode state (e.g., off, preheating, or on) from the buttonless smoking function 2310. The first power level setting operation 2640 will now be discussed in more detail below.

[0267] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the first power level setting operation 2640 receives a transfer curve from the first transfer curve selection operation 2620 and outputs a first power level waveform 2710 according to one or more operating points included in the received transfer curve. The first power level setting operation 2640 may output the first power level waveform 2710 to the heat engine driver 2305, and the heat engine driver 2305 may cause the power supply 2110 to supply power to the heat engine 2215 according to the first power level waveform 2710.

[0268] Figure 25B The illustration shows an example of at least a portion of the power level waveform output by the setpoint thermoelectric control algorithm 2300A. For example, Figure 25B An example is shown of at least a portion of a first power level waveform 2710 output by the first power level setting operation 2640 when the smoking mode state output from the buttonless smoking function 2310 and / or smoking mode recognition operation 2630 transitions in the following order: Off -> Preheat -> On -> Off. As used herein, the term "power level waveform" refers to a waveform corresponding to the power level output to the heat engine driver 2305 over time by the heat engine control algorithm. Furthermore, the term "power level waveform" may be considered synonymous with "power waveform" and may sometimes be referred to as such. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the heat engine driver 2305 causes the electrical quantity supplied to the heater 2215 by the power supply 2110 to increase or decrease in a manner proportional to the increase or decrease in the magnitude of the power level of the power level waveform output to the heat engine driver 2305.

[0269] like Figure 25BAs shown, the first power level waveform 2710 output by the first power level setting operation 2640 can start at a power level corresponding to the smoke-off mode state (e.g., in response to the first transfer curve selection operation 2620, a transfer curve corresponding to the smoke-off mode is selected); rise from the power level corresponding to the smoke-off mode state to the power level corresponding to the smoke-preheating mode state (e.g., in response to the first transfer curve selection operation 2620, a transfer curve corresponding to the smoke-preheating mode state is selected); rise from the power level corresponding to the smoke-preheating mode state to the power level corresponding to the smoke-on mode state (e.g., in response to the first transfer curve selection operation 2620, a transfer curve corresponding to the smoke-on mode state is selected); and fall back from the power level corresponding to the smoke-on mode state to the power level corresponding to the smoke-off mode state (e.g., in response to the first transfer curve selection operation 2620, a transfer curve corresponding to the smoke-off mode state is selected).

[0270] like Figure 25A As shown, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the time-decreasing operation 2610 can cause the first power level setting operation 2640 to perform a shutdown operation on the heat engine 2215 by sending a timer shutdown signal to the first power level setting operation 2640. The timer shutdown signal may also be referred to herein as a "timed shutdown signal". For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the time-decreasing operation 2610 can be used to implement a power cut-off on the heat engine 2215 by controlling the power level output by the first power level setting operation 2640. For example, in addition to the buttonless smoking function 2310 causing a power cut-off on the heat engine 2215 (e.g., by tracking a preheating timeout event and / or a smoking timeout event, and referring to the above...), Figure 26In addition to or instead of the aforementioned method (outputting the off state as the current smoking mode state as discussed in operations S2460 and S2480), the decrement time operation 2610 can track the relationship between the preheating timeout value and / or the smoking timeout value and the duration for which the current smoking mode of the setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A is maintained in the preheating state or the on state. Furthermore, in response to the decrement time operation 2610 determining that the preheating timeout value or the smoking timeout value has been exceeded, the decrement time operation 2610 sends a timer shutdown signal to the first power level setting operation 2640, and the first power level setting operation 2640 responds to the timer shutdown signal by outputting a power level or a power level waveform to the heat engine driver 2305, which causes the heat engine driver 2305 to cut off or stop the power supply to the heat engine 2215. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, in response to receiving a timer shutdown signal from a time-decreasing operation 2610, the first power level setting operation 2640 causes the heat engine driver 2305 to cut off or stop power supply to the heat engine 2215, regardless of the transfer curve output by the first transfer curve selection operation 2620.

[0271] The following will refer to Figure 25C and 25D Discuss the adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B.

[0272] Exemplary Adaptive Heat Engine Control Algorithm Figure 25C This is a block diagram illustrating an adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B according to at least some exemplary embodiments. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B is... Figure 24 An exemplary implementation of the heat engine control algorithm 2300 shown.

[0273] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the adaptive thermomechanical control algorithm 2300B is implemented by a controller 2105 of a device system 2100 included in a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500). Therefore, any or all operations described herein as being performed by the adaptive thermomechanical control algorithm 2300B (or elements thereof) can be performed by the controller 2105.

[0274] Reference Figure 25C According to at least some examples, during steam extraction, the electrical charge applied to the heat engine 2215 by the adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B can correspond to the magnitude of the measured airflow. As used in this specification, the terms "airflow" and "air velocity" refer to the rate of airflow (i.e., the volume of air passing through per unit time) and can be measured, for example, in milliliters per second (mL / s).

[0275] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 25C As shown, the adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B can have the same characteristics as... Figure 25A The adaptive power level setting operation 2642 has the same structure as the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A, except that the first power level setting operation 2640 is replaced by the adaptive power level setting operation 2642. Relative to the first power level setting operation 2640, the adaptive power level setting operation 2642 may additionally receive airflow measurements from one or more sensors of the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 (e.g., the thermodynamic sensor 2222, the pod sensor 2220, or the hot wire anemometer flow sensor included in the device sensor 2125). For example, the thermodynamic sensor 2222 may repeatedly measure the airflow rate through the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 and / or the pod assembly 300 and output the measured airflow to the adaptive power level setting operation 2642.

[0276] Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, during the smoking mode state, the adaptive power level setting operation 2642 can output a second power waveform 2720 based on (i) the transition curve output by the first transition curve selection operation 2620 and (ii) the measured airflow rate output by the thermal sensor 2222 and / or the pod sensor 2220. For example, the adaptive power level setting operation 2642 can generate an adaptive power level by performing mathematical operations on the power level corresponding to the output transition curve, such that the value of the adaptive power level increases with the increase of the measured airflow rate. For example, Figure 25D An exemplary relationship is shown between detected airflow and adaptive power level generated by adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B, according to at least some exemplary embodiments. Figure 25D As shown, the adaptation power level increases with increasing measured airflow rate. Figure 25D In the example shown, the adaptive power level setting operation 2642 is configured such that the relationship between the adaptive power level and the measured airflow is approximately linear. However, at least some exemplary embodiments are not limited to... Figure 25D Examples are shown. For instance, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the adaptive power level setting operation 2642 may be configured such that the relationship between the adaptive power level and the measured airflow is not linear. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the relationship between the adaptive power level and the measured airflow (i.e., the way in which the generated adaptive power level changes with the measured airflow) may be set according to the preferences of the designer or manufacturer of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or the pod assembly 300.

[0277] Therefore, the adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B controls the electrical charge applied to the heat engine 2215, such that the electrical charge applied to the heat engine 2215, and consequently the temperature and / or volume of the vapor generated by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or the capsule assembly 300, varies with the airflow through the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or the capsule assembly 300. Thus, the temperature and / or volume of the vapor generated by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 can be adjusted by regulating the airflow through the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or the capsule assembly 300.

[0278] Furthermore, the decrementing time operation 2610 of the adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B can be achieved, for example, by outputting a timer shutdown signal, as referenced above. Figure 25A The same operation is discussed. Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the adaptive power level setting operation 2642 responds to a timer shutdown signal by outputting a power level or power level waveform to the heat engine driver 2305, thereby causing the heat engine driver 2305 to cut off or stop power supply to the heat engine 2215. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, in response to receiving a timer shutdown signal from the decrementing time operation 2610, the adaptive power level setting operation 2642 causes the heat engine driver 2305 to cut off or stop power supply to the heat engine 2215 regardless of the transition curve output by the first transition curve selection operation 2620 or the measured airflow.

[0279] For ease of description, the adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B has been discussed above primarily with reference to the heat engine sensor 2222. However, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, references... Figure 25C and 25D The measurement described as being performed by the thermal sensor 2222 can also be performed by the pod sensor 2220 or the device sensor 2125. Furthermore, for ease of description, the above references are as follows: Figure 25A The modified heat engine control algorithm of the setpoint heat engine control algorithm 2300A (i.e., adaptive heat engine control algorithm 2300B) describes the process of generating an adaptive power level according to the measured airflow variation. However, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, heat engine control algorithms 2300, 2300C, and 2300D can also be modified to generate a power level waveform with an adaptive power level, which is based on the above-mentioned... Figure 25C The same method is discussed according to the measured changes in airflow.

[0280] The following will refer to Figure 25E-25F Discussion of temperature-controlled thermal engine algorithm 2300°C.

[0281] Exemplary temperature thermodynamic control algorithm Figure 25E This is a block diagram illustrating a temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C according to at least some exemplary embodiments. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C is... Figure 24 An exemplary implementation of the heat engine control algorithm 2300 shown.

[0282] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C is implemented by the controller 2105 of the device system 2100 included in a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500). Therefore, any or all operations described herein as being performed by the temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C (or elements thereof) can be performed by the controller 2105.

[0283] Reference Figure 25E The temperature-heat engine control algorithm 2300C uses a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller 2670 to control the electrical charge applied to the heat engine 2215 to achieve an ideal temperature. For example, as discussed in more detail below, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the temperature-heat engine control algorithm 2300C includes: determining a heater temperature value (e.g., a heat engine temperature estimate 2674); obtaining a target temperature value (e.g., a target temperature 2676); and controlling the power level supplied to the heater based on the heater temperature value and the target temperature value via a PID controller (e.g., PID controller 2670).

[0284] The second calibration mapping function 2324 of the temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C and Figure 25A The difference between the first calibration mapping function 2320 and the second calibration mapping function 2324 of the setpoint thermodynamic control algorithm 2300A is that the second calibration mapping function 2324 can output the operating point in the form of a temperature value rather than a power level. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the second calibration mapping function 2324 can read a temperature value from the pod assembly 300, or alternatively, read the operating point represented as a power value from the pod assembly 300 and convert the operating point into a temperature value. Therefore, the second calibration mapping function 2324 can output multiple temperature values ​​corresponding to various smoking mode states: off, preheating, and on. Furthermore, in the same manner discussed above with respect to the operating point output by the first calibration mapping function 2320, the second calibration mapping function 2324 can select which temperature values ​​to output for one or more of the off, preheating, and on smoking mode states based on one or both of a coarse preference level and a fine preference level received from the AV smoking profile update function 2340.

[0285] Therefore, the second transition curve selection operation 2624 of the temperature thermomechanical control algorithm 2300C selects a temperature value from the temperature values ​​output by the second calibration mapping function 2324 that corresponds to the smoking mode state output by the smoking mode recognition operation 2630. Furthermore, the selected temperature value output by the second transition curve selection operation 2624 is used as the target temperature 2676.

[0286] Therefore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C obtains a target temperature value (e.g., target temperature 2676) by detecting power information indicating multiple temperature setpoints from the removable pod assembly 300 included in the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500; determining the current operating mode of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 (e.g., the smoking mode state output by the smoking mode recognition operation 2630); and selecting from the multiple temperature setpoints the temperature setpoint corresponding to the determined current operating mode of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 as the target temperature value.

[0287] Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the target temperature 2676 is used as a setpoint (i.e., a temperature setpoint) in the PID control loop controlled by the PID controller 2670. Other elements of the PID control loop controlled by the PID controller 2670 are as follows: a power control signal 2672 output by the PID controller 2670 to the second power level setting operation 2644 to control the level of the third power waveform 2730 output by the second power level setting operation 2644 is used as a control variable of the PID control loop, while the estimated heat engine temperature 2674 output by the heat engine temperature prediction function 2660 is used as a process variable of the PID control loop.

[0288] As described above, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the heat engine temperature estimate 2674 is output by the heat engine temperature prediction function 2660. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the heat engine temperature prediction function 2660 may receive electrical measurements from the heat engine sensor 2222, indicating, for example: the current of the heater 2215, i.e., the heater current heater_I; the voltage of the heater 2215, i.e., the heater voltage heater_V; or other electrical properties of the heater 2215 from which the heater current heater_I and / or the heater voltage heater_V can be derived or estimated. Furthermore, the heat engine temperature prediction function 2660 may use the electrical measurements of the heater 2215 to determine the resistance of the heater 2215, i.e., the heater resistance heater_R (e.g., using Ohm's law or other known methods). For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the heat engine temperature prediction function 2660 may determine the quotient obtained by dividing the heater voltage heater_V by the heater current heater_I as the heater resistance heater_R (i.e., heater_V / heater_I = heater_R).

[0289] Additionally, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 may store a lookup table (LUT) (e.g., stored in storage medium 2145 of device system 2100 or non-volatile memory 2205b of pod system 2200), which stores multiple heater resistance values ​​as indices to multiple corresponding heater temperature values ​​also stored in the LUT. Therefore, the heat engine temperature prediction function 2660 can estimate the current temperature of heater 2215 by using a predetermined heater resistance heater_R as an index to the LUT to identify (e.g., look up) the corresponding heater temperature heater_T from the heater temperatures stored in the LUT. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the heat engine temperature prediction function 2660 may output the heater temperature heater_T identified from the LUT as a heat engine temperature estimate 2674.

[0290] Therefore, the PID controller 2670 continuously corrects the level of the power control signal 2672 to control the third power waveform 2730 output from the second power level setting operation 2644 to the heat engine driver 2305, such that the difference (e.g., the magnitude of the difference) between the target temperature 2676 and the estimated heat engine temperature 2674 is reduced, or alternatively minimized. The difference between the target temperature 2676 and the estimated heat engine temperature 2674 can also be considered as an error value that the PID controller 2670 operates to reduce or minimize. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the second power level setting operation 2644 outputs the third power waveform 2730 such that the level of the third power waveform 2730 is controlled by the power control signal 2672. Furthermore, as referenced above... Figure 25B As discussed, the heat engine driver 2305 increases or decreases the electrical charge supplied to the heater 2215 by the power supply 2110 in a manner proportional to the increase or decrease in the amplitude of the power level waveform output to the heat engine driver 2305. Therefore, by controlling the power control signal 2672 in the manner described above, the PID controller 2670 controls the power level supplied to the heater 2215 (e.g., supplied by the power supply 2110 of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500) such that the amplitude of the difference between the target temperature value (e.g., target temperature 2676) and the heater temperature value (e.g., heat engine temperature estimate 2674) is reduced, or alternatively minimized.

[0291] For example, Figure 25F Figure 25 illustrates an example of at least a portion of a power level waveform generated by a temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C according to at least some exemplary embodiments. Figure 25 shows an exemplary manner in which the level of a third power waveform 2730 can change over time as the PID controller 2670 continuously corrects the power control signal 2672 provided to the second power level setting operation 2644. Figure 25 illustrates an exemplary manner in which the level of the third power waveform 2730 can change in the following sequence as the smoking mode state output from the buttonless smoking function 2310 and / or smoking mode recognition operation 2630 transitions: Off -> Preheat -> On -> Off.

[0292] return Figure 25E According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the PID controller 2670 can operate according to a known PID control method. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the PID controller 2670 can generate two or more terms from a proportional term (P), an integral term (I), and a derivative term (D), and the PID controller 2670 can use the two or more terms to adjust or correct the power control signal 2672 according to a known method.

[0293] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the pod assembly 300 may store PID parameters for calibrating the PID controller 2670, and the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 may calibrate the PID controller 2670 based on the stored parameters. For example, the PID parameters stored on the pod assembly 300 may include the proportional gain K. p Integral gain K i and differential gain K dAny or all of these parameters. The PID parameters stored on the pod assembly 300 may also include any other known PID controller parameters. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the PID parameters stored on the pod assembly 300 may be selected (e.g., by the designer or manufacturer of the pod assembly 300) to correspond to the characteristics of the formulation type of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation contained within the pod assembly 300. Therefore, pods of non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations with different formulation types may have different PID parameters stored in or on the pod, and thus the operation of the PID controller 2670 can be customized for the characteristics of each different formulation type.

[0294] Additionally, the decrement time operation 2610 of the temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C can be referenced above, for example, by outputting a timer shutdown signal. Figure 25A The same operation is discussed. Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the second power level setting operation 2644 responds to a timer shutdown signal by outputting a power level or power level waveform to the heat engine driver 2305, thereby causing the heat engine driver 2305 to cut off or stop power supply to the heat engine 2215. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, in response to receiving a timer shutdown signal from the decrementing time operation 2610, the second power level setting operation 2644 causes the heat engine driver 2305 to cut off or stop power supply to the heat engine 2215 regardless of the power control signal 2672 output by the first transfer curve selection operation 2620.

[0295] Please refer to the following: Figure 25G-25H Discussion of waveform thermodynamic control algorithm 2300D.

[0296] Exemplary waveform thermodynamic control algorithm Figure 25G This is a block diagram illustrating a waveform thermodynamic control algorithm 2300D according to at least some exemplary embodiments. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the waveform thermodynamic control algorithm 2300D is... Figure 24 An exemplary implementation of the heat engine control algorithm 2300 shown is illustrated.

[0297] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the waveform thermomechanical control algorithm 2300D is implemented by a controller 2105 of a device system 2100 included in a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device (e.g., non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500). Therefore, any or all operations described herein as being performed by the waveform thermomechanical control algorithm 2300D (or elements thereof) can be performed by the controller 2105.

[0298] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the waveform thermomechanical control algorithm 2300D can control the power applied to the heater 2215 (e.g., via the power supply 2110) during the smoking mode state to achieve a specified sequence (i.e., waveform) of heater temperature, thereby obtaining a specified sequence of temperature and / or volume of vapor generated by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or the pod assembly 300.

[0299] Reference Figure 25G According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the waveform thermodynamic control algorithm 2300D can be used with, in addition to the following: Figure 25E The temperature thermodynamic control algorithm 2300C is the same or substantially the same: the waveform thermodynamic control algorithm 2300D may include a third calibration mapping function 2326 and a third transfer curve selection operation 2626 instead of the second calibration mapping function 2324 and the second transfer curve selection operation 2624.

[0300] The third calibration mapping function 2326, in addition to the following, can be used in conjunction with the above-mentioned... Figure 25E The second calibration mapping function 2324 operates in the same manner: instead of outputting a temperature value corresponding to the smoke-on mode state, the third calibration mapping function 2326 outputs a waveform that includes multiple temperature values.

[0301] In addition, the third transfer curve selection operation 2626, besides the following, can be related to the above regarding... Figure 25E The second transition curve selection operation 2624 operates in the same manner: instead of outputting a target temperature 2676 corresponding to the smoke-on mode state, the third transition curve selection operation 2626 outputs waveforms including multiple target temperatures 2676, such as... Figure 25H As shown.

[0302] Figure 25H An example of at least a portion of a target temperature waveform 2676A generated by a waveform thermomechanical control algorithm 2300D according to at least some exemplary embodiments is shown. Figure 25H The target temperature waveform 2676A shown illustrates the target temperature 2676 as a function of time, output by the third transfer curve selection operation 2626. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the target temperature waveform 2676A corresponds to the waveform of the temperature value output by the third calibration mapping function 2326 as described above. Furthermore, as... Figure 25G As shown, the third transfer curve selection operation 2626 can receive the current time from clock 2370. Therefore, the third transfer curve selection operation 2626 can use the current time to switch between each consecutive, individual value of the target temperature waveform 2676A according to the time interval, such as... Figure 25H The white dot is shown in the image.

[0303] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a calibration mapping function (e.g., a first calibration mapping function 2320) can read and output the waveform of the operating point (i.e., the power value) in the same manner as discussed above regarding the waveform of the temperature value output by the third calibration mapping function 2326. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a transfer curve selection operation (e.g., a first transfer curve selection operation 2620 of the setpoint thermomechanical control algorithm 2300A) can output a power level waveform including multiple different power levels for the smoke-in-mode state in the same manner as discussed above regarding the multiple target temperatures corresponding to the smoke-in-mode state in the target temperature waveform 2676A output by the third transfer curve selection operation 2626.

[0304] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the shape of the waveform of the temperature value or operating point read from the pod (e.g., pod assembly 300) by the calibration mapping function can be set according to the characteristics of the formulation type of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation contained in the pod (e.g., set by the pod designer or manufacturer). Therefore, pods of different non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations with different formulation types can have different temperature value waveforms or operating point waveforms stored in or on the pod.

[0305] Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the device body 100 can store one or more waveforms. For example, one or more waveforms can be stored on the device body 100 as an offset sequence to be applied to the temperature value or operating point output by a calibration mapping function (e.g., a third calibration mapping function 2326) regarding the smoke-on mode state. For example, a transfer curve selection operation (e.g., a third transfer curve selection operation 2626) can read one of the one or more waveforms stored on the device body 100 and apply an offset corresponding to the read waveform to the on-state temperature value or operating point output by the calibration mapping function to generate a target temperature waveform or power waveform with multiple different values ​​regarding the smoke-on mode, and... Figure 25H The target temperature waveform shown is similar to 2676A.

[0306] While several exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. These variations are not to be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications that will be obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a heater in a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device comprising a removable container for storing a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation, the method comprising: The removable container detects power information indicating a first operating point and a second operating point, the power information including multiple operating points corresponding to multiple coarse preference levels, the multiple operating points including the first operating point and the second operating point; The selection of a coarse preference level from the plurality of coarse preference levels is received via one or more touch sensors located on the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device; Select the work point corresponding to the selected coarse preference level from the plurality of work points as the second work point; and The heater is powered based on the detected power information in the following manner: The first charge level is determined based on the first operating point. During the first operating mode of the heater, a first electrical charge is supplied to the heater. The second charge level is determined based on the second operating point, and During the second operating mode of the heater, a second electrical charge is supplied to the heater. The second charge level is higher than the first charge level.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrical charge supplied during the first operating mode is the amount that causes the heater to heat the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation stored in the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device to a temperature below the boiling point of the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation, and The second electrical charge supplied during the second operating mode is the amount that causes the heater to heat the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation stored in the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device to a temperature equal to or higher than the boiling point of the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation is stored in the removable container.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The removable container includes the heater.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Determining the second charge includes: The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device receives a selection of a fine preference level from an external source among multiple fine preference levels; and The second charge level is determined based on the second operating point and the selected fine preference level.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, The external source is a wireless communication device, and receiving the selection of the fine-grained preference level includes: The selection of the fine preference level is received by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device via a wireless communication link between the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device and the external source.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of working points includes a first plurality of working points, and The method further includes: The selection of a second coarse preference level from the plurality of coarse preference levels is received via one or more touch sensors located on the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device; and Select the work point corresponding to the selected second coarse preference level from the first plurality of work points as the first work point.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, Determining the first power level includes: The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device receives from an external source a selection of a fine preference level from multiple fine preference levels; and The first charge level is determined based on the first operating point and the selected fine preference level.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The external source is a wireless communication device, and receiving the selection of the fine-grained preference level includes: The selection of the fine preference level is received by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device via a wireless communication link between the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device and the external source.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The plurality of working points also includes a second plurality of working points, and Selecting the work point from the plurality of work points includes: selecting the work point from the second plurality of work points.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, Determining the second charge includes: The second charge level is determined based on the second operating point and the selected fine preference level.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The external source is a wireless communication device, and receiving the selection of the fine-grained preference level includes: The selection of the fine preference level is received by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device via a wireless communication link between the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device and the external source.

13. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The detection of the power information includes: The power information is read by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device from an image located on the removable container.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The image includes a QR code, and the reading of the power information includes: The power information is read by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device from the QR code located on the removable container.

15. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The detection of the power information includes: The device reads the power information from the memory of the removable container.

16. A method for controlling a heater in a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device, the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device comprising a removable container storing an aerosol forming matrix, the method comprising: The removable container detects power information indicating a first operating point and a second operating point, the power information including multiple operating points corresponding to multiple coarse preference levels, the multiple operating points including the first operating point and the second operating point; The selection of a coarse preference level from the plurality of coarse preference levels is received via one or more touch sensors located on the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device; Select the work point corresponding to the selected coarse preference level from the plurality of work points as the second work point; and The heater is powered based on the detected power information in the following manner: The first charge level is determined based on the first operating point. The first electrical charge is supplied to the heater during the heater's first operating mode. The second charge level is determined based on the second operating point, and During the second operating mode of the heater, the second electrical charge is supplied to the heater. The second charge level is higher than the first charge level.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The first electrical charge supplied during the first operating mode is the amount that causes the heater to heat the aerosol-forming matrix stored in the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device to a temperature below the aerosolization temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix, and The second electrical charge supplied during the second operating mode is the amount by which the heater heats the aerosol-forming matrix stored in the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device to a temperature equal to or higher than the aerosolization temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The plurality of working points includes a first plurality of working points, and The method further includes: The selection of a second coarse preference level from the plurality of coarse preference levels is received via one or more touch sensors located on the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device; and Select the first working point from among the first plurality of working points that corresponds to the selected second coarse preference level.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, The detection of the power information includes: The power information is read from an image located on the removable container using the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein, The detection of the power information includes: The power information is read from the memory of the removable container by the heated non-combustible aerosol generating device.

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