A method of operating an aerosol generation device

Abstract

A method of operating an aerosol generating device is disclosed, the method comprising detecting a puff by a user; monitoring a time elapsed after each puff; counting sequential puffs unless a reset condition is met; and restarting the puff count when the reset condition is met.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a method of operating an aerosol generating device for enhancing the user experience. More specifically, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, such as an electronic cigarette, a heat-not-burn device, or the like, capable of measuring the aerosol intake based on usage patterns. BACKGROUND

[0002] Inhalers or aerosol generating devices, such as electronic cigarettes or vaping devices, are becoming increasingly popular. As opposed to burning tobacco in conventional tobacco products, such aerosol generating devices typically heat or warm an aerosolisable substance to generate an aerosol for inhalation. The generated aerosol can contain flavour and / or stimulant (e.g. nicotine or other active ingredients). Users of these inhalers can wish to occasionally monitor the amount of flavour or stimulant ingested during use.

[0003] Most aerosol generating devices incorporate some form of electronic control circuitry, typically comprising a simple computer processor, allowing a user to control the operation of the aerosol generating device. However, these devices can be quite limited in their settings and can not offer the user much flexibility. Even in devices that allow the user to customise the settings, some effort is required by the user and can not be intuitive.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for a device that can be operated and controlled according to user preferences for aerosol monitoring without requiring much effort. SUMMARY

[0005] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of operating an aerosol generating device, the method comprising detecting a puff made by a user; monitoring the time elapsed after each puff; counting the puffs in sequence unless a reset condition is met; and restarting the puff count when the reset condition is met.

[0006] Advantageously, by controlling a vaping device according to this method, the puffs made by a user during a vaping session can be safely monitored without requiring user intervention. If the use of the vaping device meets the reset condition, the subsequent puffs are counted in a new session.

[0007] Preferably, the method comprises determining the orientation of the device, wherein the reset condition is based on the orientation of the device. In this way, the user can adjust the orientation of the device to conveniently restart the counting of puffs.

[0008] The reset condition can be based on the length of time the device is held in a particular orientation. In this way, the device can take into account temporary changes in orientation, such that if the user accidentally changes the orientation of the device, the device will not restart the count.

[0009] The reset condition can be based on determining whether the elapsed time is greater than a first preset value. In this way, if there is a long interruption between sucks, it is determined that the user is not performing continuous sucking, and therefore sucking after such a long interruption is counted in the new session.

[0010] The reset condition can be based on the number of sucks performed within a predetermined time period. In this way, the frequency of sucks performed by the user can be used to determine whether sucks should be counted in the same session or whether the counting should start again.

[0011] Preferably, the method includes providing a first instruction to the user when the number of suctions reaches a first count.

[0012] Preferably, in the method, the first indication is provided only when the device is held in the first orientation and suction is being counted.

[0013] Preferably, the method includes: providing a first instruction to the user when the number of suctions reaches a first count, when the device is determined to remain in a second orientation different from the first orientation for less than a predetermined time period and to turn to the first orientation within the predetermined time period.

[0014] Preferably, the method includes: if the device is determined to remain in the first orientation at least once during a predetermined period of use, providing a second instruction to the user when the total number of suctions reaches a second count at the end of the predetermined period of use.

[0015] Preferably, in the method, the total number of aspirations is determined by the timestamp associated with each aspiration.

[0016] Preferably, in the method, the total number of suctions is determined by maintaining a suction count within a user-defined time period.

[0017] Preferably, in the method, the second indication is provided only when the amount of aerosol delivered in the total number of aspirations exceeds a threshold level.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present invention, a control circuit system for an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, the control circuit system being configured to perform the above-described method.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising: a body having an inlet and an outlet, wherein an air passage is defined between the inlet and the outlet; a suction detector configured to detect suction performed by a user; a timing unit configured to determine the time elapsed after each suction; and a controller configured to: activate a first counter to count sequential suctions unless a reset condition is met; and reset the first counter when the reset condition is met.

[0020] Method steps can be provided as corresponding device features, or vice versa. Preferably, in the device, the timing unit is configured to start a timer at the end of each aspiration and stop the timer when the aspiration detector detects the start of the next aspiration.

[0021] Preferably, the device further includes a second counter configured to count the suctions performed by the user during a predetermined usage period.

[0022] Preferably, the device further includes an identification sensor for identifying the aerosol source to monitor the amount of aerosol in each aspiration by the user.

[0023] Preferably, in the device, the timing unit is also configured to associate each aspiration session with a timestamp to monitor the user's aerosol intake over time.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium program product is provided, which, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform the steps of the above-described method. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention is shown;

[0027] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A block diagram of the various components of the device;

[0028] Figure 3 The operation is shown Figure 1 A flowchart of the method using the apparatus;

[0029] Figure 4 The operation is shown Figure 1 A flowchart of another method of the device;

[0030] Figure 5 The operation is shown Figure 1 A flowchart of another method of the device;

[0031] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The demonstration shows Figure 1 A diagram of the control operation of the device; and

[0032] Figure 8 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 The user's inhalation profile is displayed on a personal computing device linked to the aerosol generating device. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Next, various aspects of the invention will be described. It should be noted that in the following description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals are used to identify the same or similar parts. It should be noted that the drawings are schematic, and the scale of each size differs from the actual sizes. Therefore, specific sizes, etc., should be determined in consideration of the following description.

[0034] Figure 1 A non-combustible aerosol generating device 100 is shown, which is a means for inhaling an aerosol by heating or vaporization without combustion. The device 100 has a rod-like shape, with its body 101 extending from a non-mouthpiece end 102 to a mouthpiece end 103. An air passage or path is defined in the body 100 between the opposite ends 102, 103. The aerosol generating device 100 in this example is an electronic cigarette or inhalation device, and is referred to hereinafter as an electronic cigarette 100. The electronic cigarette 100 releases flavors and / or stimulants for inhalation by a user through the mouthpiece end 103 by vaporizing or heating an aerosol source inserted in the electronic cigarette 100. The construction and operation of such aerosol generating devices are well known in the art, and those skilled in the art will understand that the invention disclosed herein is applicable to aerosol generating devices of any shape and configured with any aerosol generating technology, and is not limited to this example.

[0035] The electronic cigarette 100 may include an enable switch 104, which can be configured to perform at least one of turning the power of the electronic cigarette 100 on and off. The enable switch 104 may be a push button or touch button located at any convenient position on the surface of the body 101 of the electronic cigarette 100. Alternatively, the electronic cigarette 100 does not rely on a switch button to enable the power of the heater, but relies on a puff sensor to detect airflow and trigger the device to start generating an aerosol.

[0036] Figure 2A block diagram of various components or modules of an electronic cigarette 100 is shown. In one example, the electronic cigarette 100 includes a consumable module 201a and a heating element 202 that vaporizes a consumable article 201b received by the consumable module 201a to release an aerosol containing flavor and / or stimulants for inhalation by a user. In this example, the consumable article 201b is a substance containing nicotine. The presence of the consumable article 201b in the consumable module 201a can be detected by a detector 201c. The consumable article 201b can be in solid or liquid form and is heated by the heating element 202 to release an aerosol without combustion. If the consumable article 201b is a liquid reservoir, more than one consumable article can be received at the consumable module 201a. The heating element 202 can be powered by a power source 203.

[0037] The power source 203 is, for example, a lithium-ion battery. The power source 203 supplies the electricity necessary for the operation of the electronic cigarette 100. For example, the power source 203 supplies power to all other components or modules included in the electronic cigarette 100.

[0038] For the purposes of this specification, it should be understood that the terms "vapor" and "aerosol" are interchangeable. In some examples, the heating element is arranged within the capsule or cigarette-shaped aerosol-generating material and may be connected to the aerosol-generating device, rather than being a component of the aerosol-generating device itself.

[0039] In one embodiment, a flavoring agent is present in consumable article 201b. The flavoring agent may include ethyl vanillin (vanilla), menthol, isoamyl acetate (banana oil), or the like. In another embodiment, consumable article 201b may include an additional flavor source (not shown) disposed on one side of the mouthpiece end 103, extending beyond consumable module 201a consumable article 201b, and generating a flavor to be inhaled by the user along with the aerosol generated from consumable article 201b. In yet another embodiment, electronic cigarette 100 includes more than one consumable article, each consumable article including a flavoring agent and / or a certain level of active ingredient (nicotine). In this case, each consumable article can be independently heated to generate an aerosol.

[0040] The electronic cigarette 100 also includes a controller 204 configured to control various components within the electronic cigarette. For example, the controller 204 may control a timing unit 205 (including a timer), a communication unit 206, a memory 207, an orientation sensor 208, and a puff sensor 209 included in the electronic cigarette 100. The timing unit 205 is configured to provide time information (e.g., time of day) and generate timestamps for puff data or event data, which helps in analyzing user vaping preferences. The timing unit 205 is further configured to monitor the timing of each puff and interruptions between puffs, and to provide this information to the controller 204 to monitor and potentially limit user use of the electronic cigarette 100. For example, the timing unit 205 may determine when to instruct the user when a puff threshold is reached. It should be noted that the functionality of the timing unit 205 can be incorporated into the controller 204.

[0041] Communication unit 206 is configured to manage communication with any personal computing device, server, tracking device, or other electronic cigarettes in the vicinity of electronic cigarette 100. Memory 207 is configured to store usage history and information, such as user settings and preferences.

[0042] The electronic cigarette 100 may also include various sensors, such as an orientation sensor 208 and a puff sensor 209. The orientation sensor 208 (e.g., a gyroscope) is configured to determine the positional orientation of the electronic cigarette 100, for example, whether the electronic cigarette 100 is held face up or face down during use. When the electronic cigarette 100 is face up during use (so that the enable button 104 and / or the LED and / or logo face up), a first operating mode is activated, in which an indication is provided to the user when a puff threshold is reached. This mode is also referred to as session mode.

[0043] When the e-cigarette is in use with its face down (so that the activation button 104 and / or the LED face down), a second operating mode is activated. In this second operating mode, no indication is given to the user when the puff threshold is reached. This mode is also known as free mode. In other words, the e-cigarette 100 rotates or turns 180 degrees along its longitudinal axis to switch between session mode and free mode. In session mode, the LED face up, and the puff threshold is indicated to the user through an easily visible LED. In free mode, the LED face down, and the puff threshold is not indicated to the user.

[0044] It should be noted that the orientation of the e-cigarette 100 (face up or face down) can also be defined relative to any visual image (such as a logo or surface design) for user reference. The enable button and LEDs may not necessarily provide such a reference. In any case, the sensors on the device can operate independently of these physical or visual elements.

[0045] The suction sensor 209 is configured to determine the number of suction actions for inhaling the aerosol. The suction sensor 209 can also determine the time period required for one suction action for inhaling the aerosol. The recorded usage data may include suction duration (i.e., the length of the suction), suction interval (i.e., the time between successive suctions), and fluid and / or nicotine consumption.

[0046] The electronic cigarette 100 may also include a consumable identification sensor (not shown) configured to identify a consumable item 201b inserted into the electronic cigarette 100. The identification sensor may be included in a consumable module 201a or a detector 201c. The identification sensor may use NFC, RFID, or any other known technology to identify the intensity of the stimulant contained in the consumable item 201b from an NFC / RFID tag disposed on the consumable item 201b.

[0047] The electronic cigarette 100 may also include an input-output (I / O) or user interface 210 configured to provide instructions to a user and receive input from the user. The I / O interface 210 preferably includes indicating devices and input devices. Indicating devices may include visual light-emitting elements comprising one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), a screen display, or a sound transmitter, or other suitable means for providing instructions to the user. Visual light-emitting elements such as LEDs may be disposed at the tip of the non-mouthpiece end 102 or on a side surface of the electronic cigarette 100. Such LEDs may exhibit various light-emitting patterns to provide the user with indications such as: a puffing state where aerosol is being inhaled, a non-puffing state where no aerosol is being inhaled, a preheating state where the heater is heating, a ready-to-inhale state where the heater is operating at a target temperature to generate aerosol, a depletion state where an LED bar indicates the depletion level of the aerosol source, and any other information related to the operating status of the electronic cigarette. Input devices may be one or more user-operable buttons or a perceptible touch panel responsible for pressing, switching, or touching.

[0048] All the components described above transmit and / or receive commands and / or data via communication bus 211.

[0049] In one embodiment, the electronic cigarette 100 is also configured to communicate with a personal computing device (not shown) owned by the user. The personal computing device may be a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. For simplicity, the personal computing device is referred to hereinafter as a smartphone. Preferably, the electronic cigarette 100 is configured to wirelessly connect or pair with the smartphone using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other wireless communication standards. The smartphone preferably runs a mobile application (typically referred to as an App) that allows the user to interact with the electronic cigarette 100 through a user-friendly interface. The App may be hosted by the manufacturer of the electronic cigarette 100 and compatible with technologies such as iOS.TM and Android TM It is compatible with different mobile platforms.

[0050] Figure 3 A flowchart of process 300 for operating the electronic cigarette 100 is shown. It should be noted that the steps in process 300 may not necessarily be performed in the same order. Furthermore, not all steps are shown, and some steps may be optional and can be omitted.

[0051] In step 301, the user's inhalations are detected. In this example, the inhalation sensor 209 detects each inhalation when the user begins to inhale the aerosol from the electronic cigarette 100. During each inhalation, the user ingests a certain amount of aerosol, but the total amount of aerosol inhaled depends on the duration and number of inhalations. The inhalation sensor 209 preferably communicates with the controller 204 and the timing unit 205 to record the duration and number of inhalations performed by the user.

[0052] In step 302, the time elapsed after each puff is monitored. In this example, the controller 204 monitors the use of the electronic cigarette 100 using the puff sensor 209 and the timing unit 205. The timing unit 205 starts and ends a timer between two consecutive puffs and monitors the interruption period after each puff. This is subsequently referenced. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Detailed explanation. Record the time elapsed between the end of one suction cycle and the start of the next.

[0053] In step 303, the sequential suctions are counted. In this example, controller 204 starts a counter to count the number of suctions inhaled by the user. The counter increments by one as the suction sensor 209 detects the start and end of each suction to record the number of suctions in a single suction session. As described above, timing unit 205 and controller 204 monitor for any interruptions between two consecutive suctions, and the duration of the interruption determines the suction count. Monitoring the suction count serves as a warning to the user of continuous suction in session operation mode and is typically recorded for analysis of the user's suction patterns over time.

[0054] In one embodiment, a user can set the number of sucks in a session based on user preferences in session mode. For example, a session can have no sucks, 5 sucks, 10 sucks, 15 sucks, or 20 sucks, and the user will be notified when the session's minimum number of sucks is reached. When "None" is selected, no minimum number of sucks is set in the session. Furthermore, when the user is in the middle of a session and sets new parameters or criteria, the number of sucks and the amount of sucks are reset to zero.

[0055] In step 304, it is determined whether the elapsed time exceeds a preset value. In this example, the timing unit 205 monitors the interruption period between two suctions and compares it with a preset value (e.g., 7 minutes). If the interruption period exceeds the preset value, the process proceeds to step 305; otherwise, it returns to step 303, where the controller 204 continues to count the next suction after the sequential interruption.

[0056] In step 305, the suction count restarts. In this example, when the interruption period exceeds a preset value, controller 205 terminates the current suction session and resets the counter. Therefore, suctions performed by the user after a prolonged interruption are counted in the new session. This will be referenced below. Figure 6 Further explanation.

[0057] When the e-cigarette 100 is determined to be face-up, session mode is enabled and an indication is provided to the user. In this example, once it is determined that the puff count has reached a puff threshold, the controller 204 activates one or more indicators on the I / O interface 210. For example, upon reaching the 15th puff, an LED on the I / O interface 210 illuminates softly and the e-cigarette 100 vibrates to provide both visual and tactile indications to the user to remind him or her to continue continuous use. If the user continues to use after this, further indications can be provided to the user after reaching another threshold (such as after reaching the 30th puff).

[0058] On the other hand, when the e-cigarette 100 is determined to be face down, the free mode is enabled, and no such indication is given to the user. In this example, once it is determined that the e-cigarette 100 is face down during use, the controller 204 enables the free mode. In the free mode, the controller 204 continues to monitor the number of counts and changes in the position orientation of the e-cigarette 100, but does not perform any activation control. Therefore, no indication is given to the user when operating in the free mode, as shown in step 308. However, if during a predetermined time period (e.g., during a day), even if the session mode is only enabled once, the e-cigarette 100 enters the safety mode to provide an indication to the user when a safety threshold is reached within this predetermined time period, regardless of which operating mode is currently enabled. For example, if the user is currently using the e-cigarette in the free mode and has reached 50 puffs for the day and has used the session mode enabled at least once during the day, the controller 204 provides an indication to the user via the I / O interface 210 when the 50th puff is reached.

[0059] In one embodiment, the safety threshold can be based on the intensity of the consumable article 201b identified by the identification sensor. For example, if the nicotine intensity of the consumable article 201b is 12 mg / ml, the safety threshold can be automatically set to 50 vapes per day, and if the intensity is 18 mg / ml, the safety threshold can be set to 40 vapes per day. In another embodiment, the safety threshold can be set based on user input.

[0060] Figure 4 A flowchart of process 400 for operating the electronic cigarette 100 is shown. It should be noted that the steps in process 400 may not necessarily be performed in the same order. Furthermore, not all steps are shown, and some steps may be optional and can be omitted.

[0061] In step 401, the orientation of the device during use is determined. In this example, when the user begins using the electronic cigarette 100, the orientation sensor 208 in the electronic cigarette 100 determines whether the electronic cigarette 100 is held in an up-facing or down-facing position. Optionally, the orientation sensor 208 can be activated when the user pushes the enable switch 104. Additionally, a motion sensor may be present, which detects movement of the electronic cigarette 100 in addition to detecting the activation of the enable switch 104. Signals from the orientation sensor 208, the enable switch 104, and the motion sensor can all be processed by the controller 204 to determine whether to enable one of the two operating modes.

[0062] In step 402, device usage is monitored. In this example, when the device is determined to be in use, regardless of orientation, the controller 204 begins monitoring the use of the electronic cigarette 100 using the puff sensor 209 and the timing unit 205. The puff sensor 209 detects each puff inhaled by the user, and the timing unit 205 timestamps each puff and monitors the start and end of each puff. In session mode, the timing unit 205 starts and ends a timer between two consecutive puffs and monitors for interruptions in the puff session. This is subsequently referenced. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Detailed explanation. However, in both session mode and free mode, the number of puffs inhaled by the user is counted and recorded to analyze the user's puffing patterns over time.

[0063] In step 403, it is determined whether the device is in a first orientation. In this example, if the controller 204 determines, via the signal received from the orientation session 208, that the electronic cigarette 100 is held face up, the process proceeds to step 404; otherwise, it proceeds to step 407.

[0064] In step 404, the first operating mode is enabled. In this example, once it is determined that the electronic cigarette 100 is held in an upward-facing position, the controller 204 enables the session operating mode. In session mode, the timing unit 205 actively monitors the timing and count of each puff and communicates with the controller 204 to take necessary actions when needed. In one embodiment, the user can set the number of puffs in a session in session mode based on user preferences. For example, a session can have no, 5, 10, 15, or 20 puffs, and the user will be notified when the number of puffs in the session is reached. When "no" is selected, no minimum number of puffs is set in the session. Furthermore, when the user is in the middle of a session and sets new parameters or standards, the number of puffs and the amount of puffs consumed are reset to zero.

[0065] In step 405, it is determined whether the usage has reached a first threshold. In this example, in session mode, the timing unit continuously monitors the number of puffs made by the user and compares the count with a predetermined threshold (also known as the puff threshold). When the count reaches the puff threshold, the timing unit 205 notifies the controller 204, and the process proceeds to step 406; otherwise, it returns to step 402, in which the controller 204 continues to monitor the usage of the electronic cigarette 100.

[0066] In step 406, an indication is provided to the user. In this example, once it is determined that the number of puffs has reached a puff threshold, the controller 204 activates one or more indicators on the I / O interface 210. For example, after the 15th puff (e.g., 1 second after the last puff), the upward-facing LED on the I / O interface 210 illuminates softly and the e-cigarette 100 vibrates (e.g., two short vibrations) to provide the user with both visual and tactile indications to remind him or her to continue continuous use. Additionally, the user can receive notifications on an app set up on a linked smartphone. If the user continues to use after this, further indications can be provided after reaching another threshold or after the Nth puff (e.g., after the 30th puff, 45th puff, etc.).

[0067] On the other hand, in step 407, a second operating mode is enabled. In this example, once it is determined that the e-cigarette 100 is facing down during use, the controller 204 enables the free mode. In free mode, the controller 204 continues to monitor the number of counts and changes in the orientation of the e-cigarette 100, but does not perform any activation control. Therefore, no indication is given to the user when operating in free mode, as shown in step 408. However, if a predetermined time period (e.g., during a day) occurs, the e-cigarette 100 enters a safe mode to provide an indication to the user when a safe threshold is reached within this predetermined time period, regardless of the currently enabled operating mode. For example, if the user is currently using free mode and has reached 50 puffs for the day and has used session mode at least once during the day, the controller 204 provides an indication to the user via I / O interface 210 when the 50th puff is reached.

[0068] In one embodiment, the safety threshold can be based on the intensity of the consumable article 201b identified by the identification sensor. For example, if the nicotine intensity of the consumable article 201b is 12 mg / ml, the safety threshold can be automatically set to 50 vapes per day, and if the intensity is 18 mg / ml, the safety threshold can be set to 40 vapes per day. In another embodiment, the safety threshold can be set based on user input.

[0069] Figure 5 A flowchart of process 500 for operating the electronic cigarette 100 is shown. It should be noted that the steps in process 500 may not necessarily be performed in the same order. Furthermore, not all steps are shown, and some steps may be optional and can be omitted.

[0070] In step 501, the user's inhalation is detected. In this example, the inhalation sensor 209 detects each inhalation when the user begins to inhale the aerosol from the electronic cigarette 100. During each inhalation, the user ingests a certain amount of aerosol, but the total amount of aerosol inhaled depends on the duration and number of inhalations. The inhalation sensor 209 preferably communicates with the controller 204 and the timing unit 205 to record the duration and number of inhalations performed by the user.

[0071] In step 502, the time elapsed after each puff is monitored. In this example, the controller 204 monitors the use of the electronic cigarette 100 using the puff sensor 209 and the timing unit 205. The timing unit 205 starts and ends a timer between two consecutive puffs and monitors the interruption period after each puff. This is subsequently referenced. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Detailed explanation. Record the time elapsed between the end of one suction cycle and the start of the next.

[0072] In step 503, the sequential suctions are counted. In this example, controller 204 starts a counter to count the number of suctions inhaled by the user. The counter increments by one as the suction sensor 209 detects the start and end of each suction to record the number of suctions in a single suction session. As described above, timing unit 205 and controller 204 monitor for any interruptions by the user between two consecutive suctions. Monitoring the suction count serves as a warning to the user of continuous suction in session operation mode and is typically recorded for analysis of the user's suction patterns over time.

[0073] In one embodiment, a user can set the number of sucks in a session based on user preferences in session mode. For example, a session can have no sucks, 5 sucks, 10 sucks, 15 sucks, or 20 sucks, and the user will be notified when the session's minimum number of sucks is reached. When "None" is selected, no minimum number of sucks is set in the session. Furthermore, when the user is in the middle of a session and sets new parameters or criteria, the number of sucks and the amount of sucks are reset to zero.

[0074] In step 504, the orientation of the device is determined by the orientation sensor 208 and received by the controller 204.

[0075] In step 505, it is determined whether the reset condition is met. Controller 204 monitors data received from suction sensor 209, timing unit 205, and orientation sensor 208 and compares it with predetermined reset conditions to determine whether the reset condition is met. If the reset condition is not met, the process returns to step 503, where controller 204 continues to count sequential suctions. If the reset condition is met, the process continues to step 506.

[0076] The reset condition can be based on multiple combinations of data received by controller 204 in previous steps. For example, the reset condition can be based on the time elapsed between suctions, where timing unit 205 monitors the interruption period between two suctions and compares it with a preset value (e.g., 7 minutes). If the elapsed time exceeds the preset value, the reset condition is met, and the process proceeds to step 506; however, if the elapsed time is less than the preset value, the reset condition is not met, and the process returns to step 503.

[0077] Alternatively, the reset condition can be based on the device's orientation. For example, if the controller 204 determines from the orientation sensor 208 that the user has changed the device's orientation, the reset condition is met and the process proceeds to step 506. This could be due to the device changing from an up-facing orientation to an down-facing orientation, or vice versa. The reset condition can also be based on the length of time the device spends in a particular orientation. For example, the controller 204 monitors the timing unit 205 and the orientation sensor 208, and the reset condition is met only if the device changes orientation and remains in that orientation for more than a predetermined time period. Conversely, if the device returns to its initial orientation in less than a predetermined time period, the reset condition is not met. The reset condition can be configured to prevent unintended changes in device orientation from causing an unwanted restart of the suction count.

[0078] The reset condition can also be based on the number of puffs performed within a predetermined time period. For example, if a user performs fewer puffs than a predetermined number (e.g., 3 puffs) within a preset time period (e.g., 15 minutes), the reset condition is met. In this way, the puff counter is reset when it is determined that the user is not performing continuous puffing in a single session.

[0079] The reset conditions can also be based on any combination of the time elapsed between suctions, device orientation, time spent in a specific orientation, or the number of suctions performed within a preset time period.

[0080] In step 506, the suction count restarts. In this example, when the reset condition is met, controller 205 ends the current suction session and resets the counter. Therefore, suctions performed by the user after the reset condition is met are counted in the new session.

[0081] As previously discussed, an indication can be provided to the user when the number of puffs reaches a puff threshold. Whether or not an indication is provided to the user also depends on the device's orientation. To provide an indication to the user, controller 204 activates one or more indicators on I / O interface 210. For example, upon reaching the 15th puff, an LED on I / O interface 210 illuminates softly and the electronic cigarette 100 vibrates to provide both visual and tactile indications to the user to remind him or her to continue continuous use. If the user continues to use after this, further indications can be provided to the user after reaching another threshold (such as after reaching the 30th puff).

[0082] Figure 6A graph 600 illustrates the corresponding responses of the timing unit 205 and the vaping sensor 209 in the electronic cigarette 100. The response of the timing unit 205 is plotted on the X-axis, while the response of the vaping sensor 209 is plotted on the Y-axis. The vaping sensor 209 detects the first vaping 600-1 performed by the user. Once the first vaping 600-1 ends (i.e., at the falling edge of the vaping ripple), the timing unit 205 starts a timer. The timing unit 205 continues to monitor the time, and the timer remains on until the next vaping is detected. Once the next vaping is detected (i.e., at the rising edge of the next vaping ripple), the timer is turned off. The timer is then turned on again at the falling edge of this vaping ripple.

[0083] In session mode, controller 204 uses this information from timing unit 205 to monitor interruptions made by the user between sucks. If the interruption period between two consecutive sucks (as determined by timer on and off) is within a preset time period, controller 204 continues to count the sequential sucks within the same session. When the number of sucks in this session reaches a sucking threshold, controller 204 triggers I / O interface 210 to provide an indication to the user. On the other hand, when the interruption period exceeds a preset time period (e.g., 7 minutes), controller 204 restarts counting sucks in a new session. Figure 6 As shown, after the third sip 600-3, the user makes a longer interruption, followed by the next sip 600-4. If this longer interruption is less than 7 minutes, then the timing unit 205 counts the interruption as the fourth sip in the same session. However, if this longer interruption is longer than 7 minutes (i.e., the timer in the "on" state is longer than 7 minutes), then the timing unit 205 resets the counter and counts sip 600-4 as the first sip in the new session. In one embodiment, resetting the counter depends only on the state of the timer, and is independent of the detection of the next sip. When the timer in the "on" state reaches 7 minutes, the counter is reset to zero, and when the next sip is detected, the counter is incremented by one. In this way, when the user makes a longer interruption between sips and does not make a continuous, one-time sip, no unnecessary indication is given to him or her.

[0084] Figure 7A diagram 700 illustrates the puff count correction method employed by controller 204. The parameters in diagram 700 are the same as those in diagram 600. In this example, when the user actually intends to continue holding the e-cigarette 100 face-up (and thus operating in session mode), controller 204 detects that the user accidentally holds the e-cigarette 100 face-down (and thus operating in free mode). If the user turns the e-cigarette 100 back to face-up orientation within a correction threshold, controller 204 determines that the e-cigarette was accidentally held face-down. Therefore, controller 204 continues to count puffs in session mode and triggers an indication when the puff count exceeds the puff threshold. The correction threshold can be set based on the number of puffs, a set time period, or a combination of both. For example, if the user takes 3 puffs within 1 minute and then turns the e-cigarette 100 face-up, controller 204 determines that this occurred accidentally and continues to continuously count puffs in session mode. However, if the user takes three puffs within 5 minutes before turning the e-cigarette 100 face up, the controller 204 determines that this is intentional and does not count these puffs in session mode.

[0085] In the first scenario, such as Figure 7 As shown, suppose a user holds an e-cigarette 100 face up (first mode / session mode enabled) and performs ten puffs in a session up to the tenth puff, 700-10. Then, after a two-minute interruption, the user accidentally performs two puffs with the e-cigarette 100 face down (second mode / free mode enabled). The user quickly realizes the error and turns the e-cigarette 100 face up (assuming a correction threshold of three puffs per minute) and performs three more puffs. In this scenario, the controller 204 will understand that the two puffs performed face down were accidental, therefore it will count the two puffs in session mode, and thus determine the total number of puffs performed to be 15 (the puff threshold), and therefore provide an instruction to the user after the fifteenth puff, 700-15.

[0086] In the second scenario, under the same conditions as in the first scenario, the user ultimately performs five puffs with the e-cigarette 100 face down (free mode) before turning it face up. In this scenario, because the number of puffs exceeds the calibration threshold, the controller 204 will not count these five puffs in session mode (as described above). Therefore, no indication is given to the user even if the total number of puffs performed is fifteen.

[0087] Figure 8A graphical representation of the user's vaping profile is shown. In this example, an app set up on a smartphone linked to the e-cigarette 100 generates the user's vaping profile 800. As can be seen, the vaping profile 800 shows the total number of vaps performed by the user in the current vaping session and the total amount of vapor or aerosol inhaled by the user that day. Furthermore, information related to the day's vaping time and total number of sessions is displayed, analyzed hourly using a line graph. Profile 800 also shows the remaining battery power of the e-cigarette 100 and indicates the remaining number of sessions or remaining vaping time under the current battery usage. It should be noted that the monitoring of the user's vaping history is independent of the operating mode. Therefore, the user can view the vaping profile on the app in both session mode and free mode.

[0088] It should be understood that the aforementioned apparatus and methods can be modified based on design choices and manufacturer preferences. For example, the operating mode can be modified based on other orientations of the apparatus. Furthermore, the order of timing control and suction counting can be changed. Additionally, various thresholds and preset values ​​can be hard-coded or user-configurable.

[0089] The controller 204 can also adjust the delivery of the aerosol according to the user's preferences to increase or decrease the amount of substance in the aerosol and / or add flavor to the aerosol. The amount of substance in the aerosol can be modified (increased or decreased) in a variety of ways. In one example, the amount of aerosol released from consumable item 201b can be changed, thereby affecting the amount of substance to be inhaled by the user. In another example, a multi-slot inhalation device can be used, comprising two or more liquid reservoirs, each containing liquids of different substance concentrations. By switching the supply to reservoirs containing liquids of different concentrations, the amount of substance inhaled can be adjusted while maintaining the same amount of aerosol. In yet another example, the amount of substance delivered can be modified by controlling the heating operation in heated non-burning devices and vapor-based devices (e.g., by controlling the energy supplied to the heater), or by controlling the pressurized liquid source in vapor-based devices.

[0090] The processing steps described herein, performed by the main control unit or controller, can be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium or storage device associated with the main control unit. The computer-readable medium can include both non-volatile and volatile media. Volatile media can, in particular, include semiconductor memory and dynamic memory. Non-volatile media can, in particular, include optical discs and magnetic disks.

[0091] The foregoing description of illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of demonstration and description. The precise forms disclosed are not intended to be exhaustive or limiting, and modifications and variations are possible in accordance with the foregoing teachings, or may be derived from practice of the disclosed embodiments.

[0092] As used herein, the term "non-transitory computer-readable medium" is intended to refer to any tangible computer-based device implemented in any way or by any technique for the short-term and long-term storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules and submodules, or other data in any device. Therefore, the methods described herein can be encoded as executable instructions presented in a tangible non-transitory computer-readable medium, including but not limited to storage devices and / or memory devices. When executed by a processor, such instructions cause the processor to perform at least a portion of the methods described herein. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "non-transitory computer-readable medium" includes all tangible computer-readable media, including but not limited to non-transitory computer storage devices, including but not limited to volatile and non-volatile media, as well as removable and non-removable media such as firmware, physical and virtual storage devices, CD-ROMs, DVDs, and any other digital source such as networks or the Internet, and digital devices yet to be developed, with the sole exception of transient propagation signals.

[0093] As will be understood based on the foregoing description, the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented using computer programming or engineering techniques, including computer software, firmware, hardware, or any combination or subset thereof. According to the embodiments discussed in this disclosure, any such generated program having computer-readable code means can be presented or provided within one or more computer-readable media, thereby creating a computer program product, i.e., an article of manufacture. An article of manufacture containing computer code can be made and / or used by executing the code directly from one medium, by copying the code from one medium to another, or by transmitting the code over a network.

Claims

1. A method for operating an aerosol generating device, the method comprising: Detecting the suction performed by the user; Monitor the time elapsed after each aspiration. Unless the reset condition is met, the sequential suction is counted; as well as When the reset condition is met, the suction count restarts. The method further includes providing a first indication to the user when the number of suctions reaches a first count, wherein the first indication is provided only when the device is held in a first orientation and suctions are being counted.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: Determine the orientation of the device, wherein the reset condition is based on the orientation of the device.

3. The method as described in claim 2, wherein, The reset condition is based on the length of time the device remains in one orientation.

4. The method as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The reset condition is based on whether the elapsed time is greater than a first preset value.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, The reset condition is based on the number of suctions performed within a predetermined time period.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: When the number of suctions reaches the first count, when the device is determined to remain in a second orientation different from the first orientation for a period of time less than a predetermined time period and to turn to the first orientation within the predetermined time period, the first instruction is provided to the user.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: If the device is determined to remain in the first orientation at least once during a predetermined period of use, a second instruction is provided to the user when the total number of suctions reaches a second count at the end of the predetermined period of use.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, The total number of suctions is determined by the timestamp associated with each suction.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein, The total number of suctions is determined by maintaining the suction count within a user-defined time period.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein, This second indication is provided only when the amount of aerosol delivered in the total number of aspirations exceeds a threshold level.

11. A control circuit system for an aerosol generating apparatus, the control circuit system being configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: A body having an inlet and an outlet, wherein an air passage is defined between the inlet and the outlet; A suction detector configured to detect suction performed by the user; A timing unit configured to determine the elapsed time after each aspiration; and The controller is configured to: Unless the reset condition is met, activate the first counter to count these sequential suctions; and When the reset condition is met, the first counter is reset. The controller is also configured to provide a first instruction to the user when the number of suctions reaches a first count, wherein the first instruction is provided only when the device is held in a first orientation and suctions are being counted.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein, The timing unit is configured to start the timer at the end of each suction and stop the timer when the suction detector detects the start of the next suction.

14. The apparatus of claim 12 or 13, wherein, The device also includes a second counter configured to count the suctions performed by the user during a predetermined usage period.

15. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising an identification sensor for identifying an aerosol source to monitor the amount of aerosol inhaled by the user per aspiration.

16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein, The timing unit is also configured to associate each aspiration session with a timestamp to monitor the user's aerosol intake over time.

17. A computer-readable storage medium including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the method of claim 1.

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