Control arrangement for an electronic aerosol provision system

Abstract

The present invention provides a control device for an electronic aerosol provision system, an electronic aerosol provision system, a method of operating a control device for an electronic aerosol provision system, and a server for communicating control information to a control device. The control device is configured to receive replaceable components to form an electronic aerosol provision system. The control device comprises a communication interface for performing communication external to the electronic aerosol provision system, a memory configured to hold a stored set of identifiers, and a control system. The control system is configured to receive control information from a remote server via the communication interface, update the stored set of identifiers based on the control information received from the remote server, receive an identifier from a replaceable component received by the control device, compare the received identifier to the stored set of identifiers, and perform a control action on the electronic aerosol provision system in dependence on a result of the comparison.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 201980022789.1 entitled "Control device for electronic aerosol supply system" (based on international patent application No. PCT / GB2019 / 050867 filed on March 27, 2019, which entered the Chinese national phase on September 27, 2020). Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to an electronic aerosol supply system. Background Technology

[0003] This invention relates to an electronic aerosol delivery system, which may also be referred to as, for example, an electronic cigarette, an electronic cigarette device, an electronic vapor delivery system (or device), and other similar terms. Many electronic cigarettes include a reservoir of a liquid (usually synthetic) that is vaporized for inhalation. This liquid is more generally referred to as an aerosol precursor material. The liquid reservoir may be housed in a replaceable component, commonly referred to as a cartridge or atomizer, which can be attached to and detached from the rest of the electronic cigarette.

[0004] Other electronic cigarettes, sometimes called heated tobacco products (THPs), may include aerosol precursor (consumable) materials obtained from tobacco (or possibly other plants). This aerosol precursor material is heated to produce vapor for inhalation. Heated THP consumables do not include combustible THP consumables, i.e., pyrolysis, as with regular cigarettes. THP aerosol precursor materials are typically in non-liquid form, such as dried leaves, solid powders, reconstituted plant materials, gels, etc. In many cases, THP consumables may include an outer container (e.g., one or more paper layers) within which the aerosol precursor material is provided. THP consumables can be used only once, i.e., for one smoking session, similar to a single (regular) cigarette. This contrasts with electronic cigarettes that have liquid consumables, for which the cartridge can last for multiple smoking sessions, sometimes for several days. The rapid turnaround time of THP consumable containers means there is considerable interest in making them as simple and cost-effective as possible.

[0005] More generally, many electronic aerosol delivery systems include reusable components, typically comprising a control system and a rechargeable battery, for use with replaceable (disposable) components, which usually contain aerosol precursor material (whether solid or liquid) that serves as a precursor for generating vapor or aerosol for inhalation. During the lifespan of such an electronic aerosol delivery system, the reusable component (also known as the control unit) can be used in conjunction with several different replaceable components (also known as consumables or cartridges). For example, if the aerosol precursor material of a replaceable component is depleted, or if the user would prefer to use a different replaceable component, such as one with an aerosol precursor for providing a different flavor, the user can replace that replaceable component. Therefore, it is desirable to maintain good compatibility between the control unit and the different replaceable consumables or cartridges that may be attached to or housed on the control unit. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0007] A control device for an electronic aerosol supply system is provided. The control device is configured to receive replaceable components to form the electronic aerosol supply system. The control device includes: a communication interface for performing communication outside the electronic aerosol supply system; a memory configured to store a set of stored identifiers; and a control system. The control system is configured to: receive control information from a remote server via the communication interface; update the stored set of identifiers based on the control information received from the remote server; receive identifiers from replaceable components received by the control device; compare the received identifiers with the stored set of identifiers; and perform control actions on the electronic aerosol supply system based on the result of the comparison.

[0008] A method is provided for operating a control device for an electronic aerosol supply system, wherein the control device is configured to receive replaceable components to form the electronic aerosol supply system. The method includes: storing a set of identifiers in the control device; receiving control information from a remote server via a communication interface of the control device; updating the stored set of identifiers based on the control information received from the remote server; receiving identifiers from replaceable components received by the control device; comparing the received identifiers with the stored set of identifiers; and performing control actions on the electronic aerosol supply system based on the result of the comparison.

[0009] A server is provided for transmitting control information to control devices, each control device configured to receive replaceable parts to form an electronic aerosol supply system. The server includes: a memory for maintaining a list of identifiers for replaceable parts; a processing system configured to update the list of identifiers in the memory; and a communication interface for transmitting the list of identifiers and for sending updates to the list of identifiers to the control devices.

[0010] It should be understood that the features and aspects of the invention described above with respect to the first and other aspects of this disclosure are equally applicable to embodiments of the invention according to other aspects of the invention, and can be suitably combined with embodiments of the invention according to other aspects of the invention, and not just the specific combinations described above. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Various implementations of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-section of an electronic aerosol supply device according to various implementations of this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of a method executed by a control unit according to various implementations of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of another method executed by the control unit according to various implementations of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating communication between different systems and devices according to various implementations of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0016] This disclosure relates to an aerosol supply device, also known as an aerosol supply system, electronic cigarette, vapor supply system, etc. In the following description, unless otherwise clear from the context, the terms "e-cigarette" and "electronic cigarette" are generally used interchangeably with (electronic) vapor supply system / device. Similarly, unless otherwise clear from the context, the terms "vapor" and "aerosol," as well as related terms such as "evaporation," "evaporation," and "aerosolization," are generally used interchangeably.

[0017] Aerosol delivery systems typically feature a modular design, including, for example, reusable modules (control or device units) and replaceable (disposable) cartridge modules containing liquid aerosol precursor materials. Replaceable cartridges typically include an aerosol precursor and an vaporizer, such as a heater (and therefore sometimes called an atomizer), while reusable modules typically include a power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery) and control circuitry. In some systems, the aerosol precursor can be a liquid, such as synthetic e-liquid, contained in a reservoir within the cartridge module, which is then evaporated by heating. In some systems, the aerosol precursor material can be in a non-liquid form, such as dried leaves, solid powder, or gel, derived, for example, from tobacco plants. This aerosol precursor material can then be heated to release vapor. Some systems (which may be called mixtures) utilize both e-liquid and non-liquid aerosol precursor materials. For example, in such a system, the e-liquid can be evaporated by heating, and the resulting vapor passes through the non-liquid aerosol precursor to generate additional vapor and / or capture flavor from the non-liquid aerosol precursor.

[0018] It should be understood that reusable and disposable modules may include other components depending on the function. For example, the control unit may include a user interface for receiving user input and displaying operational status characteristics, and / or the replaceable cartridge portion may include a temperature sensor for assisting in temperature control.

[0019] In operation, the cartridge is typically electrically and mechanically coupled (in a removable manner) to the control unit using, for example, threads, latches, or snap-fits with appropriately engaged electrical contacts. When the vapor precursor in the cartridge is depleted, or when the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge (potentially with a different vapor precursor or flavor), the cartridge can be removed (detached) from the control unit and a replacement cartridge can be attached to its appropriate position. Devices conforming to this two-piece modular configuration may be referred to as two-piece devices, although the methods described herein can also be applied to devices with more than two components or modules, if appropriate.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view through the example aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol supply device 100 includes two main components or modules: a reusable / control unit 101 and a replaceable / disposable cartridge 102. In normal use, the reusable portion 101 and the cartridge 102 are releasably coupled together at interface 105 (connection interface), as indicated by two bidirectional arrows. Interface 105 typically provides structural, electrical, and air path connections between the two portions 101, 102 and may utilize latching mechanisms, snap-fit ​​fastenings, or any other form of mechanical coupling, as applicable. Interface 105 typically also provides electrical coupling between the two portions, which may be a wired coupling using connectors or, for example, an induction-based wireless coupling.

[0021] exist Figure 1 In this embodiment, the cartridge 102 includes a chamber or container 120 for holding an aerosol precursor material; in one example described herein, this material is a solid or non-liquid material, such as dried leaves, solid powder, gel, etc., which provides an aerosol (for user inhalation) by applying heat. Specifically, the material container 120 is formed within a housing or shell 125. In this example, the housing 125 is also configured as a mouthpiece to provide an air outlet 118. In other examples, the mouthpiece may be a separate component, wherein the housing 125 is configured to attach between the reusable portion 101 and the mouthpiece.

[0022] The shell 125 and mouthpiece may be supplied as a single integral component, formed directly as a single unit during manufacturing, or they may be formed from two parts, which are then assembled together in a substantially permanent manner during manufacturing. For example, the shell 125 and mouthpiece may be secured to each other along the joint by friction welding, spin welding, ultrasonic welding, etc. (or by any other suitable technique). The cartridge shell 125 may be formed of plastic. It should be understood that the specific geometry of the shell 125, as well as its material, dimensions, etc., may vary depending on the specific design of a given implementation.

[0023] In some instances, when cartridge 102 is depleted or the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge, cartridge 102 can be removed from the reusable portion 101, and a new cartridge 102 is attached to its position in the reusable portion 101. In the same or other instances, the user may be able to remove the solid material container 120 from the housing 125, for example, to provide a new solid material container 120 containing fresh tobacco or other materials. Thus, the same cartridge can be reused if necessary. It should be understood that such cartridge 102 will typically have a chamber or the like configured to receive the container 120.

[0024] The cartridge 102 has a heater 135 for heating the material contained in the material container 120. The heater 135 may be, for example, a resistance heater, a ceramic heater, etc. The heater 135 may form one or more walls or boundaries of the material container 120. The heater 135 is configured to provide heat to the material in the material container 120 such that it is sufficiently heated to produce an aerosol for inhalation, but not heated to a high temperature that would cause the material in the material container 120 to burn.

[0025] In use, the cartridge 102 is attached to the reusable portion 101 to allow the heater 135 to receive power via a wire connected to the reusable portion 101 across the interface 105. The interface 105 is provided with electrical contacts or connectors. Figure 1(not shown in the image) to connect the wire 137 in the cartridge 102 to the corresponding wire in the reusable portion 101 (more generally, Figure 1 The wiring is shown schematically only and does not indicate the detailed path and nature of such wiring. Some devices allow the use of a suitable control interface to change the heating power, which alters the amount of power supplied to heater 135 during activation. Adjustment of the power level supplied to heater 135 from the reusable portion can be achieved using pulse width modulation or any other suitable control technique.

[0026] Device 100 can be activated by a user inhaling through mouthpiece 118, which triggers suction detector or airflow sensor 160 to detect changes in airflow or pressure caused by inhalation. Other types of devices can be additionally or alternatively activated by a user pressing a button 150 or similar external to the device.

[0027] In response to the detection of suction (inhalation) or button press, the reusable portion 101 provides power to activate the heater 135 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol thus formed is inhaled by the user and drawn out of the container 120 before leaving through the mouthpiece 118 for inhalation.

[0028] The solid material container 120 is connected to the airflow passage 130 via a first end wall 117 and (at the opening end) and via a second end wall 127. Each end wall 117, 127 is designed to retain the solid material within the container 120 while allowing airflow to pass through the passage 130, through the container 120, and exit through the nozzle 118. This can be achieved, for example, by end walls 117, 127 having suitable pores that retain particles (or the like) of the solid material within the container 120 but allow airflow through the pores. The end walls 117, 127 of the material container 120 can be provided by separate retainers, for example, in the form of discs inserted into each end of the housing 125 during manufacturing. Alternatively, one or both of the end walls 117, 127 can be directly formed as part of the material container 120.

[0029] The reusable portion 101 includes a housing 165 having an opening defining one or more air inlets 170 for the electronic cigarette, a battery 177 for providing operating power to the device, control circuitry 175, user input buttons 150, a visual display 173, and a puff detector 160. Figure 1In the illustrated configuration, battery 177 and control circuitry 175 have generally planar geometry, with battery 177 located below control circuitry. Housing 165 may be formed, for example, from plastic or metal, and has a cross-section that substantially conforms to the shape and dimensions of cartridge portion 102, providing a smooth outer surface at the interface 105 at the transition between the two portions. Battery 177 is rechargeable and can be connected via a USB connector within the reusable portion of housing 165. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image) Recharge.

[0030] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated device 100, an air passage 130 begins at the air inlet 170 of the reusable portion 101 and connects to the material container 120 via an interface 105. A suction detector (sensor) 160 is located within or near the airflow passage 130 of the reusable portion 101 to notify the control circuitry 175 when the user inhales on the device 100. The combination of the air inlet 170, airflow passage 130, material container 120, and mouthpiece 118 can be considered to form or represent the main airflow path of the electronic cigarette 100, whereby the airflow generated by the user's inhalation is... Figure 1 The single-headed arrow indicates the direction from the air inlet 170 (upstream) to the nozzle 118 (downstream).

[0031] User input button 150 can be implemented in any suitable manner, such as as a mechanical button, touch-sensitive button, etc., and allows various forms of user input. For example, a user might use input button 150 to turn the device on and off (thus, the activation of the heater's puff detection is available only when the device is on). User input button 150 can also be used to perform control settings, such as adjusting the power level. Display 173 provides the user with visual indications of various characteristics associated with the electronic cigarette, such as the current power level setting, remaining battery power, on / off status, etc. The display can be implemented in various ways, such as using one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (potentially multi-colored) and / or as a small liquid crystal display (LCD) screen. Some electronic cigarettes may also provide the user with other forms of information, for example, using audio signals and / or haptic feedback.

[0032] The control circuitry (or controller or control unit) 175 may be provided by a printed circuit board (PCB) and / or other electronic devices or circuitry for overall control of the aerosol supply device. The control circuitry 175 includes a processor 185 or a microcontroller (or the like) programmed or otherwise configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device 100; non-volatile memory 180 for storing programming and / or configuration settings; and a communication interface 195 for communicating with systems and devices external to the device 100. The memory may include a set 181 of stored identifiers and other relevant information, such as those described in more detail later.

[0033] In operation, the control circuit 175 can be notified of suction detection from the suction detector 160 and / or the pressing of the button 150, and is configured to supply power from the battery 177 to the heater / evaporator 135 via the wire 137 in response to such notification, thereby generating vapor for the user to inhale. The control circuit 175 can also monitor additional states within the device, such as battery power levels, and provide corresponding outputs via the display 173.

[0034] In some implementations, the properties of the aerosol matrix material in container 120, such as flavor or nicotine concentration, can vary, for example, with different cartridges from different batches or sources. This makes it useful to make the characteristics of the material within container 120 available to control circuitry 175, which can store actions (programmed) associated with different types of cartridges in memory 180. For example, for a given type of material within container 120, programming can enable control circuitry 175 to provide appropriate control signals and power levels for proper operation of heater 135. For example, (flavor) compositions for different aerosol precursor materials can deliver flavor at different rates or operating temperatures, and control signals can be provided to ensure consistent or appropriate flavor delivery for appropriate operation of heater 135. In some cases, programming can allow selection of an appropriate heating profile in response to identification of container 120, thereby enabling the material within container 120 to be heated in a desired manner to ensure a specific user experience (and help prevent, for example, undesirable effects of material combustion).

[0035] Variations or types of the different containers 120 (e.g., different types of aerosol precursor materials) may be supplied by a single manufacturer or multiple different manufacturers. As a result, there can be a large selection of different containers 120 with a range of properties, characteristics, etc., suitable for use in the electronic aerosol supply system 100. As described herein, each container may have an identifier component 190, which may be identified or otherwise interpreted by an identification component 191 of the connection interface 105, thereby allowing the control unit 101 to determine, for example, the type and / or variation (and the material inside) of the container 120 of the cartridge 101.

[0036] For example, the identifier component 190 may be an optically distinguishable pattern (e.g., a barcode), and the identification component 191 may be an optical reader (e.g., a barcode scanner). In some cases, the barcode or other identifier may be arranged in a longitudinal direction such that the optical reader scans along the barcode when the cartridge 101 is received into the control unit 102. In other implementations, the identifier component 190 may include a suitable electrical memory, such as a ROM, a gate array, etc. In this implementation, the identification component 191 may be implemented using a processor 185 (e.g.) to access the identifier from the electrical memory when the cartridge is coupled to (engaged with) the control unit 102. In other implementations, the identifier component 190 may include an RFID tag or the like, which the identification component 191 reads when the cartridge is received into (or possibly just brought to the vicinity of) the control unit 102. It should be understood that many other methods exist that can be used by the identifier component 190 and the identification component 191 to transfer the identifier from the cartridge to the control unit.

[0037] The identifier set 181 can be stored in the memory 180 of the control circuit 175. This identifier is typically associated with different variants of the container 120 or the cartridge. This set can include any number of identifiers; for example, one identifier, or two or more identifiers. In some instances, a specific identifier can be assigned to each variant (i.e., each variant of the aerosol precursor material and / or each variant of each container 120). In other instances, for example, if several variants share similar properties, they can be grouped together and assigned the same identifier. For example, if two different flavor compositions release flavor at the same rate and / or the same operating temperature, they can be assigned the same identifier.

[0038] The memory 180 can also be used to store actions or programming associated with each identifier. Such programming could be selecting a specific heating curve for, for example, a given cartridge variant. There can be a one-to-one relationship between the identifiers stored in the memory 180 and the various heating curves, or different sets of identifiers can correspond to different heating curves.

[0039] In some implementations, control circuitry 175 may process identifier 190 before enabling heater 135 to operate. For example, if container 120 (and its internal material) is unsuitable for use with the heater, for instance, because the heater's power is insufficient to evaporate the material within container 120, control circuitry 175 may not provide power to operate the heater. Operation may also be prevented if identification component 191 fails to recognize the identifier received from cartridge 102, which could indicate, for example, that the cartridge is a counterfeit or unlicensed product and therefore may not be properly compatible with control unit 101. Thus, the set of stored identifiers can be controlled, for example, to ensure that only properly authorized containers 120 or cartridges 102 are used with control unit 101.

[0040] Therefore, this method utilizes control circuitry 175, configured to identify material container 120 and / or attached cartridge segment 102, for use with control unit 101. One or more characteristics of the cartridge can be inferred from the identifier received from the cartridge, and this information is then used by the control unit during subsequent use of the electronic aerosol supply system.

[0041] For example, when a new variant (of cartridge 102 or container 120) is introduced, such as an aerosol precursor material, the set of identifiers stored in the control unit memory 180 can be updated. One or more new identifiers for the new cartridge can be added to this set of authorized identifiers stored in memory 180. Similarly, when a variant is no longer sold, identifiers stored in memory 180 can be removed or made obsolete. Furthermore, other updates can be performed, such as changing the association of a specific identifier stored in memory 180 with a variant, or modifying the stored actions or actions associated with the set of stored identifiers. For example, when a new identifier is added to the set of stored identifiers, a corresponding action (e.g., a new heating curve) can also be added. Additionally, in some cases, actions associated with an identifier can be modified without changing the identifier or its association with a specific variant. This updating of the set of stored identifiers 181 and / or their corresponding actions is facilitated by the communication interface 195 of the control circuit 175. In some instances, the communication interface 195 can be a transceiver operable to communicate wirelessly with systems and devices external to the aerosol supply device 100. In some cases, external systems or devices can be used as intermediaries to support indirect communication between the aerosol supply device 100 and one or more remote servers, etc.

[0042] Figure 2 The operation is shown for example Figure 1The flowchart illustrates an example method of an electronic aerosol supply system 100 (or its control unit 101), which has a memory 180 storing a set 181 of identifiers. In a first step 310, the control unit 101 receives control information from a remote server via a communication interface 195. Depending on the specific implementation, the communication interface 195 may support wired and / or wireless communication with an external device (i.e., outside the electronic aerosol supply system). The external device or system may contain the control information (and thus act as a remote server itself), or may facilitate access to a remote server storing the control information. For example, the external device or system may be a smartphone or laptop computer or other local device connected to a remote server via the Internet. The received control information may include instructions and / or data to be executed (e.g., by the processor 185), such as one or more identifiers. The instructions and data may be stored in the memory 180 (or any other suitable storage device or component).

[0043] In the second step 320, the control unit updates the stored set of identifiers based on control information received from the remote server. Updating the stored set of identifiers may include adding new identifiers to the stored set of identifiers, removing identifiers from the stored set of identifiers, and / or appropriately modifying the identifiers in the stored set of identifiers.

[0044] In some cases, control information may include a complete set of (updated) information associated with stored identifiers. In this case, one option is for the control unit to rewrite all control information previously stored in memory 180 with the newly received information. In other cases, the control unit may compare the newly received control information with the control information already stored in memory and perform updates only on the changed information (i.e., addition, deletion, and / or modification). In still other cases, the control information itself may be formatted as a set of update actions (add this action, delete this action, and modify this action).

[0045] In the third step 330, the control unit updates the control actions associated with (corresponding to) various stored identifiers, held in memory, based on the control information received from the remote server during operation 310. For example, each stored identifier may have its own corresponding control action, or a subset of stored identifiers may share a corresponding set of one or more control actions. Similar to identifier updates, the format of control action updates can vary depending on the implementation, such as completely rewriting previously stored control actions or only selectively updating them.

[0046] In step 340, the control unit updates the associations between identifiers and control actions in the stored set of identifiers based on control information received from the remote server. For example, one of the stored identifiers may be associated with a newly provided (updated) control action, or the association may be updated to connect the stored identifier with a different (but already stored) action. Furthermore, if a subset of the stored identifiers is associated with a specific control action, the control information may update the identifiers within that subset, for example, by adding or removing identifiers.

[0047] It should be understood that the format of identifier updates, control action updates, and / or association updates can vary depending on the implementation. For example, a complete rewrite of previously stored control actions and / or associations may be performed, or only selective updates may be implemented. Furthermore, some updates to received control information may not include updates to the stored identifiers, control actions, and associations, but may include updates to any one or both of these categories.

[0048] Figure 3 The operation is shown for example Figure 1 The flowchart illustrates an example method of an electronic aerosol supply system 100 (or its control unit 101), whereby an identifier received from a cartridge is compared with a set of identifiers stored in memory 180. Note that... Figure 3 The method can be independent of Figure 2 The method occurs, occurs in parallel with it, or occurs after it.

[0049] In the first step 410, the control unit 101 receives an identifier from the cartridge 102 or other consumable (disposable) component, which is typically engaged with (received therein) the control unit 101 to form an electronic aerosol supply system. In some embodiments, the identifier may be received via (or through) a connection interface 105 provided between the cartridge 102 and the control unit 101.

[0050] In the second step 420, control unit 101 performs a comparison between the received identifier and a stored set of identifiers in memory. The control unit, such as the processor 185 of the control unit, is configured to compare the received identifier with each identifier in the stored set of identifiers to determine whether the received identifier matches one of the stored identifiers. Finding a match can indicate, for example, that the cartridge can be considered genuine and therefore appropriately compatible with control unit 101.

[0051] In the third step 430, the control unit 101 executes some control actions depending on the comparison result of the second step 420. In some cases, the control actions may depend on whether the comparison finds any match of the received identifier in the set of stored identifiers, which can confirm that the cartridge 102 is genuine, as suggested above. In other cases, the control actions may depend on which specific identifier in the set of stored identifiers the received identifier matches. For example, matching different stored identifiers may correspond to applying different heating profiles to the operation of the evaporator. In some cases, multiple control actions may exist depending on the result of matching identifiers.

[0052] Furthermore, if no match is found between the received identifier and the set of stored identifiers, a default control action (or multiple actions) may exist. For example, a default control action could include disabling (or not enabling) the heater by preventing power supply to it. Alternatively, a default control action could enable the heater to operate, but typically in a more conservative manner than when the identifier is matched (e.g., for safety reasons). For example, it might be desirable to reduce the amount of heating to avoid potential decomposition of certain THP or e-liquid components that may be present in the received replaceable part. However, this reduced heating amount might also produce less vapor.

[0053] Conversely, if a higher level of heating is known to be compatible with the THP or e-liquid components present in the identified replacement part, this higher level of heating with a matching identifier can be used. In this case, having a matching identifier allows control actions to be optimized for the characteristics of the identified replacement part, such as the amount of heating and the amount of steam generated. Conversely, the absence of a matching identifier may result in the use of default control operations and / or settings, which may employ a least common denominator (general) approach to facilitate compatibility with unidentified replacement parts. This may, in turn, lead to suboptimal operation (compared to operation with a matching identifier), but may still be more attractive to the user than completely preventing operation.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating communication between different systems and devices according to various implementations of this disclosure. In particular, Figure 4 Examples are shown Figure 1The illustrated electronic vapor supply system 100 (electronic aerosol supply system) includes reusable components, such as a control unit 101, and replaceable components, such as a cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 includes consumable components (not shown), such as e-liquid or tobacco plant derivatives (e.g., dried leaves). The consumable components serve as vapor or aerosol precursors and, when heated, generate vapor / aerosol for inhalation by a user. The control unit 101 typically includes a rechargeable battery (not shown) for powering a heater used to generate vapor / aerosol from the precursor material.

[0055] The cartridge 102 also includes an identifier (ID) component 190, which may be provided in various ways as described above, such as as a barcode mark for optical reading, as electronic memory, etc. The control unit 101 includes an ID reader 191, which is typically capable of receiving (e.g., reading or accessing) an ID from the ID component 190 when the cartridge 102 is coupled to (engaged with or received in) the control unit 101, or possibly when the cartridge is otherwise close to the control unit. It should be understood that the nature of the ID reader 191 and the details of how the ID is received from the cartridge 102 depend on (and correspond to) the implementation of the ID component 190. For example, if the ID component 190 includes a barcode, the ID reader 191 typically includes some form of optical reader; if the ID component 190 includes electronic memory, such as ROM, the ID reader 191 may be implemented as an electronic reading device and may be incorporated into (e.g.) a processor 185.

[0056] In addition to the ID reader 191, the control unit 101 includes a communication interface 195 and a memory 180. The memory is specifically used to store a set 181 of stored identifiers. The memory can also store (or support access to) various control (operational) actions associated with the identifiers. For example, control actions may include heating profiles (how long the heater should operate and at what power level), whether operation of the device for vapor generation is permitted, displaying messages to the user, etc. The control unit 101 is configured to perform one or more control actions based on a match (or otherwise) between stored identifiers and received identifiers. Note that multiple stored identifiers can be matched with a given control action. For example, one heating profile may be suitable for a first batch of cartridges 102, and another heating profile may be suitable for a second batch of cartridges.

[0057] The list of identifiers 181 is maintained through communication between the electronic vapor supply system 100 and the remote server 550. Figure 4An external device 540, such as a smartphone and application, is shown that regulates these communications (which typically occur over the Internet). However, in some cases, the electronic vapor supply system 100 and the remote server 550 may be able to communicate directly with each other, making the external device 540 unnecessary. The communication interface 195 can be implemented in various ways, such as using a USB link (which can also be used to recharge the battery in the control unit 101) or by using a wireless connection to the external device (e.g., Bluetooth). In some devices, the communication interface 195 may support multiple forms of connectivity.

[0058] Control unit 101 can receive updates to the stored list of identifiers 181 from remote server 550 at various times, such as when a network connection is established (and optionally when no such contact is made within a given time period). Control unit 101 can also contact the remote server if it receives an identifier from cartridge 102 that it does not recognize—that is, an identifier that does not match anything in the stored list of identifiers 181. The remote server is then able to provide the latest match for this identifier (if available).

[0059] In some systems, the control unit can be configured to always request information from a remote server 550 to obtain newly received identifiers from the cartridge 102. In this case, the control unit may not include the memory 180, which can reduce costs. On the other hand, having a stored set of identifiers 181 in the memory 180 allows for faster matching of received identifiers without any communication delays (and without requiring any network connection).

[0060] As described herein, a control device for an electronic aerosol supply system is provided. The control device is configured to receive replaceable components to form the electronic aerosol supply system. The control device includes a communication interface for performing communication with entities outside the electronic aerosol supply system; a memory configured to store a set of stored identifiers; and a control system. The control system is configured to: receive control information from a remote server via the communication interface; update the stored set of identifiers based on the control information received from the remote server; receive identifiers from replaceable components coupled to the control device; compare the received identifiers with the stored set of identifiers; and perform control actions for the electronic aerosol supply system based on the result of the comparison.

[0061] In some implementations, the replaceable component contains consumable materials, such as aerosol precursor materials. Control actions can be targeted at a specific consumable (aerosol precursor) material contained in the replaceable component; for example, control actions can specify how best to generate aerosol from the aerosol precursor material. In other implementations, the replaceable component may not contain aerosol precursor materials. For example, a first replaceable component that cannot be refilled (by the user) may initially be provided to the control unit. This initial replaceable component can then be removed and replaced by a second replaceable component that is received into the control unit without consumable materials but can subsequently be (re)filled by the user with aerosol precursor materials for use in an electronic aerosol supply system. In some implementations, the replaceable component can be an element that can be attached to the control unit and is intended to be replaced periodically. For example, in some THP devices, it is known to insert a tubular sleeve into the heating chamber of the control unit, and then insert a rod-shaped consumable into the sleeve for heating. Such a sleeve may be provided for each pack of 20 consumables. For this arrangement, it may be easier (and more cost-effective) to provide an identifier on each sleeve (as a replaceable part) rather than on each rod consumable.

[0062] The identifier received from the replaceable part may include (or consist of) specific information about the replaceable part, such as a unique serial number, model number, manufacturing date, expiration date, authentication code, information about consumable materials in the replaceable part (e.g., batch number, mixture, or fragrance), one or more operating parameters applied in the control device (control unit) (e.g., heating profile), or one or more information provided to the consumer (e.g., a description of consumable materials in the replaceable part).

[0063] Another possibility is that the identifier is a reference that can be sent to a remote server to obtain some or all of the specific information about the replaceable part. Combinations of these implementations are also possible, where the identifier includes some specific information about the replaceable part and also provides a reference for accessing other such information from a remote server.

[0064] The control system of the control device compares the received identifier with a stored set of identifiers. This control system can be, for example, by... Figure 1 The control circuit 175 shown is used to implement this. In some cases, this comparison can find a direct match between the received identifier and the stored identifier. In other cases, different forms of comparison can be used. For example, the stored identifiers can be configured in pairs, each pair defining a range of models. In this case, the comparison determines whether the received identifier falls within the range of models defined by one or more pairs of models (which can then be considered a match).

[0065] If the received identifier includes multiple pieces of information, such as multiple components, then two or more components may be compared separately with the information of the stored identifier (more specifically, with its associated components). For example, a given identifier may include the aroma of a material in a replaceable component and operating parameters for heating this material.

[0066] The control device executes at least one control action for the electronic aerosol supply system based on the result of comparing a received identifier with a stored identifier. For example, if a match is found, the control device may execute one or more actions specific to the matched identifier, such as heating using a heating profile specific to the matched identifier; if no match is found, the control device may utilize a default heating profile. In another instance, if a match is found, the control device may allow the electronic aerosol supply system to operate to generate vapor; however, if no match is found, the control device may provide a reduced level of functionality to the electronic aerosol supply system. In one such case, if there is no match, operation is disabled (or not enabled), for example because compatibility of a replacement component with the control device cannot be confirmed.

[0067] In some cases, control actions may depend on the binary result of the comparison (match, yes or no); in others, some or all control actions may depend on the specific match achieved. In the latter case, different control actions may be associated with different stored identifiers (or groups or subsets of stored identifiers). These control actions may also be stored in memory 180, or may be stored elsewhere but referenced from memory 180, thereby allowing the electronic aerosol supply system to perform one or more control actions specific to (and suited to) a particular matching identifier. In some cases, multiple actions may be performed in response to a match (or a match between different components), for example, a heating curve may be selected and information may be provided to the user on display 173. The actions performed may depend on which component of the identifier finds a matching component in the stored identifiers.

[0068] The control device interacts with a remote server to update a stored set of identifiers. For example, the control device can use control information received from the remote server to add, delete, or modify one or more identifiers in the stored set of identifiers. This prepares the control device for use, for example, with a new type of replacement component that might not have been available when the control device was initially sold. The control information can also be used to update stored actions associated with the stored set of identifiers, for example, by modifying the control actions themselves, and / or by changing the association between different identifiers and different control actions.

[0069] In some cases, a remote server can push updated control information to the electronic aerosol supply device; in other cases, the control system can send a request for updated control information from the remote server. For example, the control system might send such a request weekly, or perhaps whenever it establishes a network connection (or some other set of standards). The control system can also send a request for updated control information from the remote server in response to a mismatch between a received identifier and one of the stored identifiers. The control system can then receive updated control information from the remote server in response to such a request. This updated control information can then be used to evaluate the received identifier as described above, i.e., by comparing the received identifier with an updated set of stored identifiers, and then, based on the result of this comparison, to execute control actions for the electronic aerosol supply system.

[0070] In some cases, electronic aerosol supply systems are used in conjunction with replaceable components that form heated tobacco products (THPs). In some cases, the aerosol precursor materials in consumable THP products may be more readily variable and derived directly from natural products. Therefore, identifiers in consumables can be used, for example, to indicate a particular blend of tobacco or a specific batch of the consumable, and the heating profile selected for that blend or batch.

[0071] Although the container 120 has been generally described above as being formed of a plastic material and including a portion of solid aerosol precursor material, in other implementations, the container 120 may be formed of paper or cardboard material. In some implementations, the paper or cardboard material wraps around the outer surface of an aerosol-forming material that is essentially formed in a rod shape. Such a container 120 may be formed in a manner similar to that of a combustible cigarette and may also include an integrated mouthpiece (e.g., a filter) at one end. The general method of heating the container described above still applies, i.e., heating the container but not burning it to generate an inhalable aerosol. For these containers, the identifier may be provided in any suitable manner as described above, for example, it may be optically printed on the surface of the container.

[0072] To address various problems and improve the prior art, this disclosure illustrates, by way of example, various embodiments in which the claimed invention can be practiced. The advantages and features of this disclosure are merely representative samples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. They are intended only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed invention. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects of this disclosure should not be considered as limitations on this disclosure as defined by the claims or on equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claims. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments may suitably include, constitute, or substantially constitute various combinations of, the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc., and therefore it should be understood that features of dependent claims may be combined with features of independent claims in combinations other than those expressly set forth in the claims. This disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. A control device for an electronic aerosol supply system, the control device being configured to receive replaceable components to form the electronic aerosol supply system, the control device comprising: A communication interface for performing communication outside the electronic aerosol supply system; Memory, configured to store a set of identifiers; as well as The control system is configured as follows: Receive control information from the remote server via the communication interface; The stored set of identifiers is updated based on the control information received from the remote server; Receive an identifier from a replaceable component, and receive the replaceable component via the control device; The received identifier is compared with the stored set of identifiers; as well as Based on the comparison results, control actions are performed on the electronic aerosol supply system. Wherein, if the received identifier does not match one of the stored identifiers, the control device is configured to provide fewer functions for the electronic aerosol supply system compared to the functions available to the electronic aerosol supply system if the received identifier matches one of the stored identifiers, wherein the control action includes a default operation if the received identifier does not match one of the stored identifiers; and The reduced function includes enabling the heater to operate, but operating with reduced heating compared to when the received identifier matches one of the stored identifiers.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein, The set of stored identifiers updated based on the control information includes at least one of the following: Add one or more identifiers to the stored set of identifiers; Remove one or more identifiers from the stored set of identifiers; as well as Modify one or more identifiers in the stored set of identifiers.

3. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The default operation includes allowing the electronic aerosol supply system to generate aerosols according to one or more default settings.

4. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, If the received identifier matches one of the stored identifiers, the control action includes the stored action associated with the stored identifier that matches the received identifier.

5. The control device according to claim 4, wherein, The control system is further configured to update the stored actions associated with the stored set of identifiers based on control information received from the remote server.

6. The control device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The memory is configured to store stored actions associated with the set of stored identifiers.

7. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The control system is further configured to periodically request updated control information from the remote server.

8. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The control system is further configured to send a request for updated control information from the remote server in response to a received identifier not matching one of the stored identifiers.

9. The control device according to claim 8, wherein, The request for updated control information includes the received identifier.

10. The control device according to claim 9, wherein, The control system is further configured as follows: The stored set of identifiers is updated based on updated control information received from the remote server in response to the request; Compare the received identifier with the updated set of stored identifiers; as well as Based on the comparison results, the electronic aerosol supply system is updated with control actions.

11. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, Each identifier represents a different type or kind of replaceable part.

12. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The replaceable component includes an aerosol precursor material.

13. The control device of claim 12, configured to aerosolize the aerosol precursor material located in the replaceable component.

14. An electronic aerosol supply system, comprising a control device according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The electronic aerosol supply system according to claim 14, wherein, The replaceable component includes a tobacco heating product.

16. A method of operating a control device for an electronic aerosol supply system, the control device being configured to receive replaceable components to form an electronic aerosol supply system, the method comprising: The control device stores a set of identifiers; Control information is received from a remote server via the communication interface of the control device; The set of stored identifiers is updated based on the control information received from the remote server; Receive an identifier from a replaceable component, and receive the replaceable component via the control device; The received identifier is compared with the stored set of identifiers; as well as Based on the comparison results, control actions are performed on the electronic aerosol supply system. Wherein, if the received identifier does not match one of the stored identifiers, the control device is configured to provide fewer functions for the electronic aerosol supply system compared to the functions available to the electronic aerosol supply system if the received identifier matches one of the stored identifiers, wherein the control action includes a default operation if the received identifier does not match one of the stored identifiers; and The reduced function includes enabling the heater to operate, but operating with reduced heating compared to when the received identifier matches one of the stored identifiers.

17. A server for transmitting control information to control devices, each of said control devices configured to receive replaceable components to form an electronic aerosol supply system, said server comprising: Memory for maintaining a list of identifiers for the replaceable components; A processing system configured to update the list of identifiers in the memory; as well as A communication interface for sending the list of identifiers and for sending updates to the list of identifiers to the control device. Wherein, if the received identifier does not match one of the stored identifiers, the control device is configured to provide fewer functions for the electronic aerosol supply system compared to the functions available to the electronic aerosol supply system if the received identifier matches one of the stored identifiers, wherein the control actions for the electronic aerosol supply system if the received identifier does not match one of the stored identifiers include default operation; and The reduced function includes enabling the heater to operate, but operating with reduced heating compared to when the received identifier matches one of the stored identifiers.

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