Hot wire anemometer air flow measurement, puff detection and ambient temperature tracking

Abstract

A method of controlling a hot wire anemometer (HWA) of a non-nicotine e-vaping device, comprising: controlling, by a first PID controller, a power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine e-vaping device based on a temperature of a heated element of the HWA and a temperature setpoint; generating a puff detection signal indicative of whether or not a puff is currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine e-vaping device; and when the puff detection signal indicates that a puff is not currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine e-vaping device, detecting, by a second PID controller, a change in an ambient temperature of the HWA, and controlling, by the second PID controller, the temperature setpoint such that the temperature setpoint changes in response to the detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

Description

Technical Field

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

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

[0003] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a method for controlling a hot-wire anemometer (HWA) of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device includes: controlling a power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device based on the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and a temperature setpoint by a first PID controller; generating a smoking detection signal indicating whether smoking is currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device; detecting a change in the ambient temperature of the HWA by a second PID controller when the smoking detection signal indicates that smoking is not currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device; and controlling the temperature setpoint by the second PID controller such that the temperature setpoint changes in response to the detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

[0004] Controlling the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device may include generating a drive signal setpoint by a first PID controller, the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device being based on the drive signal setpoint.

[0005] The method may also include determining the airflow velocity around the HWA based on a drive signal setpoint when a smoking detection signal indicates that smoking is currently taking place relative to a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0006] The generation of a smoking detection signal may include: determining the gradient of a drive signal setpoint; and generating a smoking detection signal based on the determined gradient of the drive signal setpoint.

[0007] The method may also include: generating a pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal based on a drive signal setting; and applying power to the HWA by applying the PWM drive signal to the HWA.

[0008] Generating a PWM drive signal can include generating a PWM drive signal, thereby controlling the duty cycle of the PWM based on the drive signal setpoint.

[0009] The generation of the drive signal setpoint may include the first PID controller generating the drive signal setpoint based on the difference between the temperature of the heated element and the temperature setpoint of the HWA.

[0010] Detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA can be achieved by a second PID controller based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint.

[0011] Detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA can include using a second PID controller to detect changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

[0012] The control temperature setpoint may include: increasing the temperature setpoint in response to a detected increase in the ambient temperature of HWA by the second PID controller; and decreasing the temperature setpoint in response to a detected decrease in the ambient temperature of HWA by the second PID controller.

[0013] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device includes a non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation storage section for storing a non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation; a heater configured to generate non-nicotine vapor by heating the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation; a hot-wire anemometer (HWA); a first PID controller configured to control the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device based on the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and a temperature setpoint; a smoke detection signal generator configured to generate a smoke detection signal indicating whether smoking is currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device; and a second PID controller configured to detect a change in the ambient temperature of the HWA when the smoke detection signal indicates that smoking is not currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device, and to control the temperature setpoint such that the temperature setpoint changes in response to the detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

[0014] The first PID controller can be configured to control the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine e-cigarette device by generating a drive signal setpoint, the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine e-cigarette device being based on the drive signal setpoint.

[0015] The second PID controller can be further configured to determine the airflow velocity around the HWA based on the drive signal setpoint, while the smoke detection signal indicates that smoking is currently taking place relative to a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0016] The smoking detection signal generator can be configured to determine the gradient of the drive signal setpoint and generate a smoking detection signal based on the determined gradient of the drive signal setpoint.

[0017] Non-nicotine electronic cigarette devices may also include a drive signal generator configured to generate a pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal based on a drive signal setpoint and to apply power to the HWA by applying the PWM drive signal to the HWA.

[0018] The drive signal generator can be configured to control the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal based on the drive signal setpoint.

[0019] The first PID controller can be configured to generate a drive signal setpoint based on the difference between the temperature of the heated element and the temperature setpoint in the HWA.

[0020] The second PID controller can be configured to detect changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint.

[0021] The second PID controller can be configured to detect changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint.

[0022] The second PID controller can be configured to raise the temperature setpoint in response to a detected increase in the ambient temperature of HWA, and to lower the temperature setpoint in response to a detected decrease in the ambient temperature of HWA. Attached Figure Description

[0023] 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.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a front view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Rear view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A close-up view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0028] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A remote view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of the pod entrance.

[0031] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0032] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the main body of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0033] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The front view of the main body of the device.

[0034] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged perspective view of the through hole in the image.

[0035] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An enlarged perspective view of the electrical connector of the device.

[0036] Figure 13 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the pod assembly of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

[0037] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another perspective view of the pod component.

[0038] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A partial exploded view of the pod components.

[0039] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A perspective view of the connector module in the image.

[0040] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 Another perspective view of the connector module.

[0041] Figure 18 It does not have a suction core or heater. Figure 17 A perspective view of the connector module.

[0042] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An exploded view of the connector module.

[0043] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 Another exploded view of the connector module.

[0044] Figure 21A A device system diagram of a device body according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0045] Figure 21B An example of a microprocessor according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0046] Figure 22A A pod system diagram of a pod assembly according to an exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0047] Figure 22B An exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 22A An example of a pod system, in which the cryptographic coprocessor is omitted.

[0048] Figure 23 A pod system connected to a device system is shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] Figures 24A-24D An exemplary embodiment is shown, including Figure 22A An exemplary implementation of the heated element in a hot-wire anemometer (HWA) of a pod system.

[0050] Figure 25A This is a diagram of an internal PID control loop according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] Figure 25B-25D It shows Figure 25A An exemplary waveform of the pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal.

[0052] Figure 26A This is a diagram of an external PID control loop according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] Figure 26B This is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating an HWA according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0055] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view of another heated non-combustible aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] Figure 29This 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.

[0057] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A perspective view of the layout.

[0058] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 Side view cross-sectional view of the arrangement. Detailed Implementation

[0059] 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.

[0060] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., as used herein may describe different elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another region, layer, or portion. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] Exemplary Non-Nicotine Electronic Cigarette Device Structure

[0066] The term “non-nicotine electronic cigarette device” as used herein may sometimes be used in connection with any of the following terms and is considered synonymous with any of the following terms: non-nicotine electronic cigarette 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.”

[0067] 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, and / or vaporizing agent, 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 DEVICEINCLUDING NON-NICOTINE E-VAPING SECTION,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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 can be a power button, and the second button 120 can be an intensity button. Although two buttons are shown in conjunction with the light guide device in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that more (or fewer) buttons can be provided depending on the available features and desired user interface.

[0072] Frame 106 (e.g., base frame) is the central support structure of 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 and distal ends. The proximal and distal ends 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 non-nicotine vapor. Bridging portions are 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 may be integrally formed as a monolithic structure.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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).

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. Figure 8 In the figure, 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 components, electronic components, 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.

[0081] 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 the pod assembly 300 for use 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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).

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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 recess, 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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).

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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 (traveling through the first branch portion of the flow path) and a second airflow (traveling 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.

[0111] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the absorbent core 338 may be a fiber pad or other structure having pores / gapes 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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).

[0117] 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).

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] The module outlet 368 can be a draw resistance (RTD) port. In such a configuration, the draw 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 draw 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 draw resistance of 88.3 mmH2O. In another case, a 1.1 mm diameter of the module outlet 368 can result in a draw resistance of 73.6 mmH2O. In yet another case, a 1.2 mm diameter of the module outlet 368 can result in a draw resistance of 58.7 mmH2O. In yet another case, a 1.3 mm diameter of the module outlet 368 can result in a draw 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.

[0125] Figure 21A A device system 2100 is shown within a device body 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The device system 2100 may be a system within the device body 100 of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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 ).

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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 An exemplary embodiment of the controller 2105 shown is illustrated. Controller 2105A may be or include a microprocessor. Furthermore, 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 21B As 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.

[0131] return Figure 21A The controller 2105 communicates with a power supply 2110, actuator control 2115, body electrical / data interface 2120, device sensor 2125, input / output (I / O) interface 2130, vapor indicator 2135, on-product control 2150, and at least one antenna 2140. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the on-product control 2150 may include any device or multiple devices capable of being manually operated 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.

[0132] Controller 2105 communicates with a cryptographic coprocessor in the pod assembly 300 via pod electrical / data interface 2120, which has a non-volatile memory (CC-NVM) or a non-volatile memory (NVM). The term CC-NVM can refer to a hardware module, including a processor for encryption and related processing, and the NVM. More specifically, controller 2105 can utilize encryption to authenticate the pod assembly 300. As will be described, controller 2105 communicates with a CC-NVM packet or the NVM to authenticate the pod assembly 300. More specifically, the non-volatile memory may be encoded with product and other information for authentication during manufacturing.

[0133] The storage device 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 (or physical construction, such as heat engine type) when the pod assembly 300 is inserted into 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 assembly 300 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 assembly 300 and disable the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500.

[0134] Controller 2105 (or storage medium 2145) stores key materials and proprietary algorithm software used for encryption. For example, encryption algorithms rely on the use of random numbers. The security of these algorithms depends on how random this data is. These numbers are typically pre-generated and encoded into a processor or storage device. Exemplary embodiments can increase the randomness of the numbers used for encryption 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), resulting in numbers that are more random and more subjective than pre-generated random numbers. All communication between controller 2105 and pod assembly 300 can be encrypted.

[0135] Additionally, the pod component 300 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 component 300 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 undergo the download process.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] The controller 2105 may also include onboard clock, reset, and power management modules to reduce the area covered by the PCB in the device body 100.

[0141] 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 direction. 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 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. Furthermore, reference will be made below. Figure 22A-2As discussed in more detail in 6, instead of using the flow sensor included in the device sensor 2125 of the device system 2100 of the device body 100 to measure air flow, or in addition to such measurement, the air flow can be measured using a hot-wire anemometer 2220A located in the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300.

[0142] Data generated from one or more of the device sensors 2125 can be sampled at a sampling rate suitable for the parameters measured using an independent multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

[0143] The controller 2105 can adjust the heater profile and other profiles of the vapor precursor formulation based on measurement information received from the controller 2105. For convenience, these profiles are generally referred to as evaporation or vapor profiles. During the few seconds of vapor 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 vapor extraction instance, and then immediately reduce the power to half or a quarter after about one second. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, pulse width modulation can be used to implement the modulation of the electrical power supplied to the heater.

[0144] 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 extraction intensity and its use as feedback to the controller 2105 to regulate the power delivered to the heater in the pod 300; this power delivery can be referred to as heating or energy delivery.

[0145] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, when controller 2105 identifies a currently installed pod (e.g., via SKU), controller 2105 matches an appropriate 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] In addition to supplying power to the pod, 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.

[0150] 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 such as Wi-Fi. In one exemplary embodiment, the communication stack is within 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, such as smartphones. The NFC modem can be used to pair the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 with applications and for retrieving diagnostic information. Furthermore, the Bluetooth LE modem can be used to provide location information (for adult smokers to locate the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500) or for verification during purchase.

[0151] As described above, the device system 2100 can generate and adjust various profiles for smoking. The controller 2105 uses the power supply 2110 and actuator control 2115 to adjust the profiles for adult smokers.

[0152] Actuator control 2115 includes passive and active actuators to adjust a desired steam profile. For example, device body 100 may include an inlet passage in the nozzle. Actuator control 2115 may control the inlet passage based on commands from controller 2105 associated with the desired steam profile.

[0153] 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.

[0154] 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 smoking parameters (e.g., vapor volume) controlled by the adult smoker, and other feedback mechanisms.

[0155] Once the identity of the pod component is verified, the controller 2105 operates the power supply 2110, actuator control 2115, vapor indicator 2135, and antenna 2140 based on the information stored on the pod by the adult smoker using the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 and the NVM or CC-NVM. Additionally, the controller 2105 may include a logging function and be capable of executing algorithms to calibrate the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500. The 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. The 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. Alternatively, the smoking profile can be encoded in a CC-NVM or NVM and used by controller 2105.

[0156] Figure 22A A pod system diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Pod system 2200 may be a system within pod assembly 300.

[0157] 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 2120. The CC-NVM 2205 includes a cryptographic coprocessor 2205a and a non-volatile memory 2205b. For authentication and operation of the pod component 300 via communication with the cryptographic coprocessor 2205a, the controller 2105 can access information stored in the non-volatile memory 2205b.

[0158] In another exemplary embodiment, the pod component 300 may not have a cryptographic coprocessor. For example, Figure 22B The illustration shows an embodiment of the invention. Figure 22A An example of a pod system, in which the cryptographic coprocessor 2205a is omitted. Figure 23 A connection according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 21A An example of a pod system for a device system.

[0159] like 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.

[0160] The non-volatile memory 2205b may be coded with an electronic identity to allow verification of the identity of the pod 300 and pairing of at least one of specific operating parameters of the pod when the pod assembly is inserted into the through-hole of the device body 100. In addition to verification based on the pod's electronic identity, the controller 2105 may authorize the use of the pod based on the expiration date of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] For example, the level of a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation in the pod can be determined in one of two ways. In one exemplary embodiment, a pod sensor 2220 directly measures the level of a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation in the pod 300.

[0163] 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.

[0164] The controller 2105 and / or storage medium 2145 can store non-nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data that identifies the operating point of the non-nicotine vapor preformulation component. The non-nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data includes data describing how the non-nicotine vapor preformulation 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 can 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.

[0165] 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 pod, so that if the pod is removed from the device body 100 and subsequently reinstalled, the controller 2105 will still know the precise non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation level of the pod.

[0166] 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 device body is separated from the pod.

[0167] In one exemplary embodiment, the non-volatile memory 2205b may be a programmable read-only memory.

[0168] The heater 2215 is actuated by the controller 2105 and transfers heat to at least a portion of the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation in the pod assembly 300, for example, according to a command profile (volume, temperature (based on the power profile) and aroma) from the controller 2105.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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, for example, 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] Data generated from the pod sensor 2220 can be sampled at a sampling rate suitable for the parameters measured using a separate multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The pod sensor 2220 may include, for example, a heater temperature sensor, a non-nicotine vapor precursor flow rate monitor, an airflow sensor, and a smoke detector. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater temperature sensor may be a thermistor or a thermocouple, and the non-nicotine vapor precursor flow rate sensing may be performed by the pod system 2200 using electrostatic interference or a non-nicotine vapor precursor rotator.

[0173] The pod sensor 2220 may also include a hot-wire anemometer (HWA) 2220A. The HWA 2220A provides airflow velocity sensing and may also be referred to as a flow sensor 2220A in this specification. Furthermore, as follows... Figure 24A-27 As discussed in more detail below, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the hot-wire anemometer (HWA) 2220A can be used in conjunction with a dual-control loop architecture with a single heated element to facilitate: (i) airflow velocity sensing, (ii) smoke detection, and (iii) ambient temperature tracking. For example, in at least some conventional systems that include an HWA, the HWA is designed to measure continuous flow and therefore uses two or more sensing elements: one for measuring the ambient temperature and another for measuring the rate of heat transfer from some heated elements. Therefore, by using a single heated element to perform both airflow velocity sensing and ambient temperature tracking, the complexity of the hardware (e.g., circuitry) required to perform both airflow velocity sensing and ambient temperature tracking can be advantageously reduced. Furthermore, the ability to track the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A is also useful because the effects of nearby heat engines can be taken into account when estimating the temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A.

[0174] As used herein, the term "ambient temperature" when used relative to the HWA or flow sensor may refer to the air temperature immediately adjacent to the HWA or flow sensor. For example, when at least the heated element of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A is located inside the pod assembly 300, the ambient temperature of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A may refer to the air temperature surrounding the heated element of the HWA (or flow sensor 2220A) within the pod assembly 300. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, if the air temperature within the pod assembly 300 is substantially uniform (e.g., when no non-nicotine vapor is currently being inhaled through the outlet of the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 and / or when the heater 2215 is not currently actuated), the reference to "ambient temperature" of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A in this specification may generally refer to the air temperature within the pod assembly 300.

[0175] As will be referred to below Figure 24A-2 As discussed in more detail in section 6, the HWA 2220A includes a heated element that generates heat due to the application of power to it. Furthermore, the temperature of the heated element affects its resistance (Ω). Therefore, the voltage of the heated element can be used to estimate its temperature. Additionally, in the presence of flowing air, heat is carried away from the heated element of the HWA 2220A by the flowing air; therefore, the power level required to maintain a specific temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A can be used to estimate the airflow velocity of the air flowing around the heated element of the HWA 2220A. As used herein, the air flowing through the space immediately adjacent to the heated element of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A can be simply referred to as the air flowing around the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A or the air flowing around the heated element of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A. Reference will now be made to... Figures 24A-24D Examples of the heated elements of the HWA 2220A will be discussed in more detail.

[0176] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, HWA 2220A may be (or may be included in) Figure 19 In sensor 364. Therefore, as mentioned above, refer to sensor 364 and Figure 19 and 20 As described above, HWA 2220A can be located within the merging path 330c. Furthermore, as referenced above... Figure 19 and 20 The confluence path 330c is described as follows: the material is drawn into the pod assembly 300 through the pod inlet 322 and exits through the module outlet 368 (where the heater 336 is located on top). Figure 17 The airflow path is part of the airflow path of the HWA 2220A. Therefore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the air flowing around the HWA 2220A is the air that flows from the pod inlet 322 to the module outlet 368 via the confluence path 330c (e.g., during smoking).

[0177] Figures 24A-24D An exemplary embodiment of the heated element included in the HWA 2220A is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 24A The heated element of the HWA 2220A can be achieved by either a first etched serpentine element 2402A or a second etched serpentine element 2402B. For example... Figure 24A As shown, the first etched serpentine element 2402A includes a first serpentine line 2408A suspended between the first support member 2404A and the second support member 2406A, and the second etched serpentine element 2402B includes a second serpentine line 2408 suspended between the third support member 2404B and the fourth support member 2406B. (Refer to...) Figure 24BThe heated element of the HWA 2220A can be achieved using a single-wire element 2402C. For example... Figure 24B As shown, the single-wire element includes a single wire 2408C vertically suspended between the fifth support 2404C and the sixth support 2406C. (Refer to...) Figure 24C The heated element in the HWA 2220A can be implemented using a wire-wound element 2410. For example, the wire-wound element 2410 can be a wire-wound surface mount (SMT) inductor. (See reference...) Figure 24D The heated element of the HWA 2220A can be achieved using a thin-film resistance temperature detector (RTD) 2412. (See below for reference.) Figures 25A-25D Section 26 discusses a dual-control loop architecture based on at least some exemplary embodiments.

[0178] Figure 25A This is a diagram of the internal PID control loop 2500. Figure 25B-25D It shows Figure 25A The first to third example waveforms 2526-1–2526-3 of the pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal 2526. Figure 26A This is a diagram of the external PID control loop 2600.

[0179] like Figure 25A As shown, the internal PID control loop 2500 calculates the internal error Error_I based on the difference between the internal setpoint SP_I and the internal process variable PV_I output from the internal process 2520. For example, a controller included in the controller 2105 or the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300 can determine the difference between the internal setpoint SP_I and the internal process variable PV_I by performing a summation operation 2518. Figure 25A In the example shown, the summation operation 2518 includes calculating the sum of the internal setpoint SP_I and the inverse (i.e., negative (-)) version of the internal process variable PV_I as the internal error Error_I. The internal PID controller 2510 corrects the internal control variable CV_I based on this internal error Error_I and then applies it as input to the internal process 2520, such that the internal error Error_I is reduced or alternatively minimized. The internal PID controller 2510 is configured to generate the control variable CV_I by using the internal error Error_I to determine the proportional (P), integral (I), and derivative (D) terms according to known methods. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the internal PID controller 2510 may be implemented by a controller 2105 within the device system 2100 of the device body 100, or by a separate controller within the pod system 2200 of the pod component 300. The internal process 2520 will now be discussed in more detail below.

[0180] Reference Figure 25A Internal process 2520 is a process for driving flow sensor 2220A. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, internal process 2520 includes a drive signal generation function 2522, flow sensor 2220A, and voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the drive signal generation function 2522 and voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524 can be implemented by a controller. For example, operations described in the specification as being performed by drive signal generation function 2522 or voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524 can be performed or controlled by controller 2105. As another example, operations described in the specification as being performed by drive signal generation function 2522 or voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524 can be performed or controlled by a separate controller included in the pod system 2200 of pod assembly 300.

[0181] The flow sensor 2220A is driven by a pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal 2526 generated by the drive signal generation function 2522. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the drive signal generation function 2522 generates the PWM drive signal 2526 by controlling the power supply 2110 and applying the PWM drive signal to the flow sensor 2220A (e.g., via the body electrical / data interface 2120). Applying the PWM drive signal 2526 to the flow sensor 2220A causes heat to accumulate in the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A, thereby increasing the temperature of the heated element. For example… Figure 25B-25D The first to third example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 of the PWM drive signal 2526 are shown. These first to third example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 illustrate how the current magnitude of the PWM drive signal 2526 varies with time. Figure 25B-25D In the example shown, the vertical axis of the first to third exemplary waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 shows the current magnitude of the PWM drive signal 2526, which can be expressed, for example, in amperes (A) or milliamperes (mA). Figure 25B-25D In the example shown, the horizontal axis of the first to third exemplary waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 represents time, which can be expressed, for example, in seconds (s) or milliseconds (ms). Figure 25B-25D As shown, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the PWM drive signal 2526 is a periodic signal oscillating between a high value (H) and a low value (L). Figure 25B-25D In the example shown, the first to third exemplary waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 share the same period, namely a common period 2540, while the first to third duty cycles 2550-1 to 2550-3 of the first to third exemplary waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 are different from each other.

[0182] return Figure 25A The drive signal setpoint 2514 controls the power level (and the heat generated by the heated element) applied to the flow sensor 2220A by controlling the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 generated by the drive signal generation function 2522. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the drive signal generation function 2522 generates the PWM drive signal 2526 in such a way that the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 increases as the drive signal setpoint 2514 output from the internal PID controller 2510 to the drive signal generation function 2522 increases, and the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 decreases as the drive signal setpoint 2514 output from the internal PID controller 2510 to the drive signal generation function 2522 decreases.

[0183] For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the internal PID controller 2510 can generate a drive signal setpoint 2514 within an upper and lower limit, and the drive signal generation function 2522 can generate a PWM drive signal 2526 in a manner that the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 is proportional to the drive signal setpoint 2514. For example, as Figure 25B-25D As shown, Figure 25B The first exemplary waveform 2526-1 has a first duty cycle 2550-1 that corresponds to approximately 50% of the common period 2540. Figure 25C The second exemplary waveform 2526-2 has a second duty cycle 2550-2 that corresponds to approximately 25% of the common period 2540. Figure 25C The third duty cycle 2550-3 of the third exemplary waveform 2526-3 corresponds to approximately 75% of the common period 2540. Therefore, in the exemplary case where the upper and lower limits of the drive signal setting value 2514 are 10.0 and 0.0 respectively, the drive signal generation function 2522 can generate a signal in response to the drive signal setting value 2514 being 5.0. Figure 25B The first exemplary waveform 2526-1 has a duty cycle of 2550-1, generated in response to the drive signal setpoint 2514 being 2.5. Figure 25C The second exemplary waveform 2526-2 has a second duty cycle 2550-2, generated in response to the drive signal setpoint 2514 being 7.5. Figure 25C The third exemplary waveform 2526-3 has a third duty cycle 2550-3. Although 10.0 and 0.0 are provided as examples of the upper and lower limits of the drive signal setting value 2514, respectively, the upper and lower limits of the drive signal setting value 2514 are not limited to the values ​​10.0 and 0.0, and can be set to any value.

[0184] return Figure 25AWhen the PWM drive signal 2526 is high, the voltage of the flow sensor 2220A can be measured, i.e., the flow sensor voltage 2528. For example, Figure 25B-25D Sample 2530 is shown for each of the following embodiments. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, sample 2530 respectively illustrates exemplary timing of operations for sampling the flow sensor voltage 2528. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the sampling of the flow sensor voltage 2528 may be performed or controlled by controller 2105 or a controller included in the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300. According to some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 25B-25D As shown, sample 2530 may appear periodically when the PWM drive signal 2526 is at a high level (H), while sample 2530 may not appear when the PWM drive signal 2526 is at a low level (L). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the current of the PWM drive signal 2526 when it is high (H) is known, and the relationship between the temperature and resistance of the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A is also known. Therefore, according to known methods (e.g., using Ohm's law), the voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524 converts the flow sensor voltage 2528 into the flow sensor temperature 2516.

[0185] Therefore, the process controlled by the internal PID control loop 2500 is the internal process 2520, the internal setpoint SP_I is the temperature setpoint 2512, the internal control variable CV_I is the drive signal setpoint 2514, and the internal process variable PV_I is the flow sensor temperature 2516.

[0186] therefore, Figure 25A The internal PID control loop 2500 operates to continuously correct the drive signal setpoint 2514 (thus changing the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526, which in turn changes the heat generated by the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A), thereby reducing or alternatively minimizing the difference between the flow sensor temperature 2516 and the temperature setpoint 2512. As the airflow velocity through and / or across the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A increases, the rate at which the flowing air extracts heat from the heated element increases. As the rate at which the flowing air extracts heat from the heated element increases, the power level that should be applied to the heated element to maintain its temperature at the temperature setpoint 2512 also increases. Therefore, by measuring or estimating the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A, the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 (e.g., the controller 2105 and / or the controller of the pod system 2200) can measure or estimate the airflow around the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A, thereby measuring or estimating the airflow through the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or the pod assembly 300.

[0187] However, the performance of the flow sensor 2220A may be negatively affected when the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A changes while the temperature setpoint 2512 remains constant. For example, if the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A increases, the temperature of the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A may also increase, for example, due to the heated element receiving heat from the air adjacent to it. As the temperature of the heated element increases, its resistance (Ω) also increases. Therefore, the values ​​of both the flow sensor voltage 2528 measured from the flow sensor 2220A and the flow sensor temperature 2516 generated by the voltage-temperature conversion function 2524 also increase. Furthermore, for example, if the flow sensor temperature 2516 exceeds the temperature setpoint 2512, the resulting value of the internal error Error_I will cause the internal PID controller 2510 to attempt to reduce the flow sensor temperature 2516 by reducing the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A (i.e., by reducing the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2556 by reducing the drive signal setpoint 2514). Therefore, if the internal error Error_I is large enough to cause the internal PID controller 2510 to attempt to reduce the power level applied to the heated element below the level required for reliable operation of the flow sensor 2220A, the flow sensor 2220A may become unresponsive due to insufficient power, thus ceasing to perform the flow sensing function. For example, if the internal PID controller 2510 reduces the drive signal setpoint 2514 to a point where the resulting duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2556 is too low to provide sufficient power to the flow sensor 2220A, the flow sensor 2220A may become unresponsive due to insufficient power, thus ceasing to perform the flow sensing function.

[0188] Therefore, to avoid the situation where the flow sensor 2220A stops working properly, the operation is adjusted according to the change in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A. Figure 25A The internal PID control loop 2500 with a temperature setpoint 2512 may be beneficial. One solution is to use a separate temperature sensor specifically designed for detecting the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A.

[0189] However, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the above discussion is different. Figure 25A The internal PID control loop is combined with Figure 26A The dual-control-loop architecture of the external PID control loop 2600 can track changes in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A and adjust the temperature setpoint 2512 accordingly. This will be discussed in more detail below. Figure 26A The external PID control loop is 2600.

[0190] Reference Figure 26AThe external PID control loop 2600 calculates the external error Error_O based on the difference between the external setpoint SP_O and the external process variable PV_O output from the external process 2620. For example, the controller included in the controller 2105 or the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300 can determine the difference between the external setpoint SP_O and the external process variable PV_O by performing a summation operation 2618. Figure 26A In the example shown, the summation operation 2618 includes calculating the sum of the inverse (i.e., negative (-)) versions of the internal setpoint SP_I and the external process variable PV_O as the external error Error_O. The external PID controller 2610 corrects the external control variable CV_O based on the external error Error_O, and then applies it as input to the external process 2620 in a manner that reduces or alternatively minimizes the external error Error_O. (See above reference...) Figure 25A The external PID controller 2610, discussed in the internal PID control loop 2500, is configured to generate the external control variable CV_O by determining the proportional (P), integral (I), and derivative (D) terms using an external error Error_O according to a known method. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the external PID controller 2610 may be implemented by a controller 2105 within the device system 2100 of the device body 100, or as a separate controller within the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, both the internal PID controller 2510 and the external PID controller 2610 may be implemented by the controller 2105 within the device system 2100 of the device body 100, and both may be implemented as the same single controller within the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300, or they may each be implemented as separate controllers, for example, two controllers within the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300.

[0191] like Figure 26A As shown, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the process controlled by the external PID control loop 2600, i.e., the external process 2620, is... Figure 25A The internal PID control loop is 2500. For example, such as... Figure 26A As shown, the external setpoint SP_O of the external PID control loop 2600 is the drive signal setpoint 2612, the external control variable CV_O of the external PID control loop 2600 is the temperature setpoint 2512 of the internal PID control loop 2500, and the variable PV_O of the external PID control loop 2600 is the drive signal setpoint 2514 of the internal PID control loop 2500.

[0192] therefore, Figure 26AThe external PID control loop 2600 operates to continuously correct the temperature setpoint 2512 input to the internal PID control loop 2500, in order to reduce or alternatively minimize the difference between the drive signal setpoint 2514 output by the internal PID control loop 2500 and the drive signal setpoint 2612. Furthermore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the external PID control loop 2600 does not adjust the temperature setpoint 2512 input to the internal PID control loop 2500 during smoking. For example, as... Figure 26A As shown, the external PID control loop 2600 may include a multiplexer 2650. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the function of the multiplexer 2650 may be performed by the controller 2105 or by a controller included in the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300. Furthermore, as... Figure 26A As shown, when the smoking detection signal 2640 has a first logic value (e.g., logic high) indicating that smoking is occurring (i.e., indicating that non-nicotine vapor is currently being inhaled through the outlet of the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 or the pod assembly 300, or that negative pressure is currently being applied to the outlet of the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 or the pod assembly 300), the current value of the temperature setpoint 2512 input to the multiplexer 2650 is fixed to the value provided to the internal PID control loop 2500 until the smoking detection signal 2640 changes to a second logic value (e.g., logic low) indicating that smoking is not currently occurring (i.e., indicating that non-nicotine vapor is not currently being inhaled through the outlet of the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 or the pod assembly 300, or that negative pressure is not currently being applied to the outlet of the non-nicotine e-cigarette device 500 or the pod assembly 300). When the smoking detection signal 2640 changes to a second logic value (e.g., logic low) indicating that smoking has not occurred, the multiplexer 2650 simply outputs the temperature setpoint 2512, which is output by the external PID controller 2610, as input to the internal PID control loop 2500. Therefore, the internal setpoint SP_I (i.e., temperature setpoint 2512) of the internal PID control loop 2500 has a fixed value when smoking occurs and a variable value when smoking does not occur. The manner in which the temperature setpoint 2512 changes when smoking does not occur will be discussed in more detail below. See below for reference. Figure 26B In more detail, the smoke detection signal 2640 may be generated by a smoke detection signal generator. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the smoke detection signal generator is a controller (e.g., controller 2105 or a controller within the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300).

[0193] As the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A increases, the drive signal setpoint 2514 can be referenced above. Figure 25AThe discussion deteriorates. However, the external PID controller 2610 can prevent the drive signal setpoint 2514 from dropping to a point where the flow sensor 2220A might become unresponsive. For example, refer to... Figure 26A As the drive signal setpoint 2514 decreases relative to the drive signal setpoint 2612, the magnitude of the external error Error_O increases. In response, the external PID controller 2610 operates to reduce the external error Error_O by increasing the temperature setpoint 2512 according to the change in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A, thereby increasing the drive signal setpoint 2514. For example, the internal PID controller 2510 will increase the drive signal setpoint 2514 in response to the increased temperature setpoint 2512 because additional power will be required to raise the temperature of the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A to the newly increased temperature setpoint 2512.

[0194] In addition to raising the temperature setpoint 2512 in response to an increase in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A, as discussed in the exemplary scenario above, the external PID control loop 2600 can also lower the temperature setpoint 2512 in response to a decrease in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A. For example, when the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A decreases, the temperature of the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A may also decrease due to heat loss from the heated element to the adjacent air. As the temperature of the heated element decreases, the resistance of the heated element also decreases. Therefore, the values ​​of both the flow sensor voltage 2528 measured from the flow sensor 2220A and the flow sensor temperature 2516 generated by the voltage-temperature conversion function 2524 also decrease. Furthermore, for example, if the flow sensor temperature 2516 is lower than the temperature setpoint 2512, the resulting value of the internal error Error_I will cause the internal PID controller 2510 to attempt to increase the flow sensor temperature 2516 by increasing the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A (i.e., by increasing the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2556 by increasing the drive signal setpoint 2514). Furthermore, as the drive signal setpoint 2514 rises relative to the drive signal setpoint 2612, the magnitude of the external error Error_O increases. In response, the external PID controller 2610 operates to reduce the magnitude of the external error Error_O by lowering the temperature setpoint 2512 according to the change in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A, thereby causing the drive signal setpoint 2514 to decrease. For example, the internal PID controller 2510 will lower the drive signal setpoint 2514 in response to the lowered temperature setpoint 2512 because it is necessary to reduce the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A to bring the temperature of the heated element down to the newly lowered temperature setpoint 2512.

[0195] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the level of the drive signal setting value setpoint 2612 can be set according to the preferences of the designer and / or manufacturer of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 and / or the pod assembly 300. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the level of the drive signal setting value setpoint 2612 can be stored (e.g., stored in the device body 100 and / or the pod assembly 300) according to the preferences of the designer and / or manufacturer of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. For example, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the level of the drive signal setting value setpoint 2612 can be set according to a desired margin between the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A and the temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A (i.e., when no smoking occurs).

[0196] Therefore, the external PID control loop 2600 can advantageously use the flow sensor 2220A to control the temperature setpoint 2512 to change according to the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A, without implementing a separate temperature sensor (e.g., within the pod assembly 300) to detect the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A. Reference will now be made to this. Figure 26B This describes an exemplary method for operating an HWA according to at least some exemplary embodiments.

[0197] Figure 26B This is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating an HWA according to at least some exemplary embodiments.

[0198] Reference Figure 26B In step S2710, the temperature of the heated element of HWA is determined. For example, as referenced above... Figure 25A The controller discussed (e.g., controller 2105 or the controller included in the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300) can perform or control the operation of measuring the flow sensor voltage 2528, and the voltage-temperature conversion function 2424 can convert the measured flow sensor voltage 2528 into a flow sensor temperature 2516, which represents the temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A.

[0199] In step S2720, the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device is controlled based on the determined temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint. For example, as referenced above... Figure 25AThe internal PID controller 2510, as discussed, generates a drive signal setpoint 2514 (i.e., an internal control variable CV_I) based on the difference between the temperature setpoint 2512 (i.e., internal setpoint SP_I) and the flow sensor temperature 2516 (i.e., internal process variable PV_I). Furthermore, the drive signal setpoint 2514 controls, for example, the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A by controlling the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526.

[0200] In step S2730, a smoking detection signal is generated. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, a controller (e.g., controller 2105 or a controller included in the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300) can generate a smoking detection signal 2640 by monitoring the gradient of the drive signal setpoint 2514 and / or the drive signal set value 2514. For example, in step S730, when the smoking detection signal 2640 has a value indicating that smoking is not currently occurring (e.g., a logic low value or 0), the controller can change the value of the smoking detection signal 2640 to a value indicating that smoking is currently occurring (e.g., a logic high value or 1) in response to determining that the current level of the drive signal set value 2514 (or the average level on a sliding window of levels) has exceeded a smoking start level threshold and / or determining that the current gradient of the drive signal set value 2514 (or the average gradient on a sliding window of gradients) has exceeded a smoking start gradient threshold. Furthermore, in step S730, when the smoking detection signal has a value indicating that smoking is currently occurring (e.g., a logic high value or 1), the controller may change the value of the smoking detection signal 2640 to a value indicating that smoking is not currently occurring (e.g., a logic low value or 0) in response to determining that the current level of the drive signal setpoint 2514 (or the average level on the sliding window of the level) has fallen below the smoking end level threshold and / or determining that the current gradient of the drive signal setpoint 2514 (or the average gradient on the sliding window of the gradient) has fallen below the smoking end gradient threshold.

[0201] In step S2740, a determination is made as to whether smoking is detected. For example, if the level of the smoking detection signal 2640 generated in step S2730 indicates that no smoking (N) is detected, the method proceeds to step S2750.

[0202] In step S2750, a determination is made as to whether a change in the ambient temperature of HWA has been detected. For example, based on the above regarding... Figure 26AIn this discussion, the external PID controller 2610 can determine that the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A has changed based on the detected increase in the magnitude of the external error Error_O. Furthermore, the sign of the external error Error_O can indicate to the external PID controller 2610 the direction of the ambient temperature change of the HWA 2220A (e.g., increase or decrease). If no change in the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A is detected in step S2750 (N), the method ends. If a change in the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A is detected in step S2750 (Y), the method proceeds to step S2760.

[0203] In step S2760, the temperature setpoint is controlled such that it changes in response to a detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA. For example, as mentioned above... Figure 26A As discussed, the external PID controller 2610 can respond to a change in the ambient temperature of HWA 2220A detected in step S2750 by changing the value of the temperature setpoint 2512 according to the ambient temperature of HWA 2220A. For example, the external PID controller 2610 can raise the temperature setpoint 2512 in response to detecting an increase in the ambient temperature of HWA 2220A, and the external PID controller 2610 can lower the temperature setpoint 2512 in response to detecting a decrease in the ambient temperature of HWA 2220A. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the method ends after step S2760.

[0204] Returning to step S2750, if the level of the smoking detection signal 2640 generated in step S2730 indicates that smoking (Y) has been detected, the method proceeds to step S2770.

[0205] In step S2770, the airflow velocity of the air flowing around the HWA is determined based on the power level applied to the HWA. For example, in step S2770, a controller (e.g., controller 2105 or a controller included in the pod system 2200 of the pod assembly 300) may determine the airflow velocity of the air flowing around the HWA based on the current drive signal setpoint 2514. Specifically, as described above, the heated element of the HWA 2220A becomes heated due to the power applied to the heated element via the PWM drive signal 2526. Furthermore, the temperature of the heated element affects the resistance (Ω) of the heating element of the heated element. Therefore, the voltage of the heated element (e.g., flow sensor voltage 2528) can be used to estimate the temperature of the heated element (e.g., flow sensor temperature 2516). Furthermore, in the presence of flowing air, heat will be carried away from the heated element of the HWA 2220A by the flowing air. Therefore, the power level required to maintain a specific temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A can be used to estimate the airflow velocity around the heated element of the HWA 2220A. Additionally, the power level required to maintain a specific temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A can be determined or estimated based on the current drive signal setting 2514, which controls the current power level applied to the heated element of the HWA 2220A by controlling the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 applied to the HWA 2220A. Therefore, the controller included in the controller 2105 or the housing system 2200 can use the current drive signal setting 2514 to determine or estimate the airflow velocity around the heated element of the HWA 2220A. Furthermore, the airflow velocity around the heated element of the HWA 2220A can indicate the airflow velocity through the pod assembly 300 and / or the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500. For example, as referenced above... Figure 13 and 14 As noted, during smoking, air enters the pod assembly 300 through the pod inlet 322 and exits the pod assembly through the pod outlet 304. Furthermore, as referenced above... Figure 18-20 As noted, sensor 364 may be or include HWA 2220A, therefore, HWA 2220A may be located within the confluence path 330c. Furthermore, as also referenced above... Figure 18-20As described, the confluence path 330c is part of an airflow path that is drawn into the pod assembly 300 through the pod inlet 322, travels through the heating chamber (e.g., enters from the module outlet 368 and exits into the vapor passage 316), and exits the pod assembly 300 via the pod outlet 304. Therefore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, the air flowing around the HWA 2220A is the air flowing through the pod assembly 300 of the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500 via the pod inlet 322 and the pod outlet 304 (e.g., during smoking), and thus the airflow velocity of the air flowing around the heated element of the HWA 2220A can indicate the airflow velocity of the air flowing through the pod assembly 300 and / or the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device 500.

[0206] Therefore, according to at least some exemplary embodiments, and including Figure 25A The internal PID control loop 2500 and Figure 26A The dual-loop architecture of the external PID control loop 2600, combined with a single HWA (e.g., HWA 2220A), can facilitate any or all of (i) airflow sensing, (ii) smoke detection, and (iii) ambient temperature tracking to improve airflow sensing without implementing an additional temperature sensor for sensing the ambient temperature of the HWA. Reference will now be made to this. Figure 27-31 An exemplary structure of a heated non-combustible aerosol generating device is discussed.

[0207] Exemplary structure of heated non-combustible aerosol generating device

[0208] 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 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.

[0209] 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.

[0210] 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.

[0211] 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.

[0212] Compounds can also be natural components of medicinal plants that have medically acceptable therapeutic effects.

[0213] 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 and / or of artificial origin. Therefore, the compound within the aerosol-forming matrix may include natural components and / or non-natural additives. In this regard, it should be understood that the existing level of natural components 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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] 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.

[0217] 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.

[0218] 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.

[0219] 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] 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.

[0222] 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 described above. Figure 21A-23 The pod system 2200 is discussed.

[0223] While several exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. These variations should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications, which would be obvious to those skilled in the art, should be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a hot-wire anemometer (HWA) of a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device, the method comprising: The power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device is controlled by a first proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller based on the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint. Generate a smoking detection signal indicating whether smoking is currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. The smoking detection signal has a first logic value when smoking occurs and a second logic value when smoking does not occur. The temperature setpoint is fixed when the smoking detection signal has the first logic value indicating that smoking is currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. as well as When the smoking detection signal has a second logic value indicating that no smoking is currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device, The change in the ambient temperature of the HWA is detected by a second PID controller; and The temperature setpoint is controlled by the second PID controller, so that the temperature setpoint is adjusted in response to the detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Controlling the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device includes: The drive signal setpoint is generated by the first PID controller. The power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device is based on the drive signal setting value.

3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: When the smoking detection signal indicates that smoking is currently taking place relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device, the airflow rate around the HWA is determined based on the drive signal setting value.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The generation of the smoking detection signal includes: Determine the gradient of the drive signal setpoint; and The smoking detection signal is generated based on the gradient of the determined drive signal setpoint.

5. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: A pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal is generated based on the drive signal setting value; and A power level is applied to the HWA by applying a PWM drive signal.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, Generating a PWM drive signal includes generating a PWM drive signal, thereby controlling the duty cycle of the PWM based on the set value of the drive signal.

7. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The generation of the drive signal setpoint includes: The first PID controller generates the drive signal setpoint based on the difference between the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, Detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA includes: The second PID controller detects changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

9. The method according to claim 2, wherein, Detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA includes: The second PID controller detects changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The control of the temperature setpoint includes: The second PID controller increases the temperature setpoint in response to detecting an increase in the ambient temperature of the HWA; and The second PID controller lowers the temperature setpoint in response to detecting a decrease in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

11. A non-nicotine electronic cigarette device, comprising: The non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation storage section is used for storing non-nicotine vapor precursor preparations. A heater configured to generate non-nicotine vapor by heating the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation; Hot-wire anemometer (HWA); A first proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller is configured to control the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device based on the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint. A smoking detection signal generator is configured to generate a smoking detection signal indicating whether smoking is currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. The smoking detection signal has a first logic value when smoking occurs and a second logic value when smoking does not occur. The temperature setpoint is fixed when the smoking detection signal has the first logic value indicating that smoking is currently occurring relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device. and A second PID controller is configured such that when the smoking detection signal has a second logic value indicating that smoking is not currently occurring relative to a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device, The second PID controller detects changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA, and The second PID controller controls the temperature setpoint so that the temperature setpoint is adjusted in response to a detected change in the HWA ambient temperature.

12. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to claim 11, wherein, The first PID controller is configured to control the power level applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device by generating a drive signal setpoint, the power applied to the HWA by the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device being based on the drive signal setpoint.

13. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to claim 12, wherein, The second PID controller is also configured to determine the airflow velocity around the HWA based on the drive signal setpoint when the smoking detection signal indicates that smoking is currently taking place relative to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device.

14. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to claim 12, wherein, The smoking detection signal generator is configured to, Determine the gradient of the drive signal setpoint, and The smoking detection signal is generated based on the gradient of the determined drive signal setpoint.

15. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to claim 12, further comprising: The drive signal generator is configured as follows: A pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal is generated based on the drive signal setting value, and The power level of the HWA is applied by applying the PWM drive signal to the HWA.

16. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to claim 15, wherein, The drive signal generator is configured to control the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal based on the drive signal setpoint.

17. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to claim 12, wherein, The first PID controller is configured to generate the drive signal setpoint based on the difference between the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint.

18. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to claim 17, wherein, The second PID controller is configured to detect changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

19. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device according to claim 12, wherein, The second PID controller is configured to detect changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

20. The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device of claim 19, wherein the second PID controller is configured to control the temperature setpoint in such a way as: The temperature setpoint is increased in response to the detection of an increase in the ambient temperature of the HWA, and The temperature setpoint is lowered in response to the detection of a decrease in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

Images