Aerosol delivery device, cartridge and controller for aerosol delivery system

Abstract

A controller for an aerosol delivery system configured, in use, to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, the system comprising a device having a power source and a removable cartridge containing an aerosol-generating material, the device and cartridge being connected, in use, via an electrical contact, the controller is configured to adjust a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contact and having a variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contact to transmit data through the electrical contact.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices, cartridges, and controllers for aerosol delivery systems, such as, but not limited to, nicotine delivery systems (eg, electronic cigarettes), and related methods. Background Art

[0002] Aerosol delivery systems, such as electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), typically contain a chamber of aerosol generating material, such as a source solid or source liquid, which may contain an active substance and / or flavoring agent, from which an aerosol or vapor is generated for inhalation by a user, such as by thermal evaporation. Therefore, an aerosol delivery system will typically include an aerosol generation region containing an aerosol generator (e.g., a heating element), which is arranged to vaporize or aerosolize a portion of the precursor material to generate a vapor or aerosol in the aerosol generation region. When the user inhales on the device and power is supplied to the vaporizer, air is drawn into the device through the inlet aperture and along an inlet air channel connected to the aerosol generation region, where the air mixes with the vaporized precursor material to form a condensed aerosol. There is an outlet channel connecting the aerosol generating region to an outlet in the mouthpiece, and when the user inhales on the mouthpiece, the air drawn into the aerosol generating region continues along the outlet flow path to the mouthpiece outlet, carrying the aerosol with it for inhalation by the user. Some electronic cigarettes may also include a flavoring element in the airflow path through the device to impart additional flavoring. Such devices may sometimes be referred to as hybrid devices, and the flavoring element may, for example, include a portion of tobacco arranged in the airflow path between the aerosol generating region and the mouthpiece, so that the aerosol / condensed aerosol drawn through the device passes through the portion of the tobacco before leaving the mouthpiece for inhalation by the user.

[0003] It is known to provide a two-piece aerosol delivery system comprising a device having a power source for generating an aerosol from a removable cartridge, and providing a data communication channel between the device and the cartridge. However, existing arrangements may consume significant power. An object of the present invention is to improve the user experience by reducing power consumption and extending the use time to provide an improved user experience and environmental benefits.

[0004] the term

[0005] Conveying system

[0006] As used herein, the term "delivery system" is intended to encompass a system that, in use, delivers at least one substance to a user, and includes:

[0007] Combustible aerosol delivery systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for roll-your-own or self-made cigarettes (based on or not based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other smokeable material);

[0008] non-flammable aerosol delivery systems that release compounds from an aerosol generating material without burning the aerosol generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate an aerosol using a combination of aerosol generating materials; and

[0009] An aerosol-free delivery system that delivers at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or otherwise without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to lozenges, chewing gum, patches, products including inhalable powders, and oral products (e.g., oral tobacco including snuff or moist snuff), wherein the at least one substance may or may not include nicotine.

[0010] Flammable Aerosol Supply System

[0011] According to the present disclosure, a "combustible" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the constituent aerosol generating material of the aerosol supply system (or components thereof) burns or ignites during use to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0012] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol supply system, such as a system selected from the group consisting of cigarettes, cigarillos, and cigars. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a component for use in a combustible aerosol supply system, such as a filter, a filter rod, a filter segment, a tobacco rod, an overflow, an aerosol modifier release component (such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead), or a paper (such as a plug wrap, a tipping paper, or a cigarette paper).

[0013] Non-flammable aerosol supply system

[0014] According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the constituent aerosol generating materials of the aerosol supply system (or components thereof) do not burn or ignite to deliver at least one substance to a user.

[0015] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, for example, a powered non-flammable aerosol supply system. In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vapor smoke device or an electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not required. In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an aerosol generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0016] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that uses a combination of aerosol generating materials to generate an aerosol, wherein one or more of the aerosol generating materials can be heated. Each aerosol generating material can be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material can include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0017] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include aerosol generating materials and are configured to be used with the non-flammable aerosol supply device. These consumables are sometimes referred to as products in the present disclosure.

[0018] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a non-flammable aerosol supply device thereof, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electrical source or an exothermic source. In some embodiments, the exothermic source includes a carbon matrix that may be powered to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or a heat transfer material proximate to the exothermic source.

[0019] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. In some embodiments, consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device may include an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material delivery component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0020] Aerosol-free delivery system

[0021] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-aerosol delivery system that delivers at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another manner without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to lozenges, chewing gum, patches, products including inhalable powders, and oral products (e.g., oral tobacco including snuff or moist snuff), wherein the at least one substance may or may not include nicotine.

[0022] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered can be an aerosol-generating material or a material not intended to be aerosolized. Either material can include one or more active ingredients, one or more flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and / or one or more other functional materials, as appropriate.

[0023] Active substances

[0024] In some embodiments, the material to be delivered includes an active substance. As used herein, the active substance can be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance physiological reactions. The active substance can be, for example, selected from a nutrient, a nootropic, a psychoactive substance. The active substance can be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance can include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, caffeine, vitamins (such as B6 or B12 or C), melatonin, or components, derivatives or combinations thereof. The active substance can include one or more components, derivatives or extracts of tobacco or other plants.

[0025] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0026] As described herein, the active substance may include or be derived from one or more plants or components, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term "plant" includes any material derived from a plant, including but not limited to extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, shells, husks, etc. Alternatively, the material may include an active compound naturally present in a plant, which is obtained by synthesis. The material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, fragments, strips, sheets, etc.

[0027] Examples of plants are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, fennel, lemongrass, mint, spearmint, red tea tree, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay, licorice, matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea (e.g., green or black), thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, anise (fennel), basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, red pepper, rosemary, saffron, lavender, Grass, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderberry, vanilla, holly, basil plant, turmeric, turmeric root powder, sandalwood, coriander leaf, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, black currant, valerian, Spanish bell pepper, nutmeg, dammarin, marjoram, olive, lemon mint, lemon basil, chives, parsley, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, tetramethyluric acid, maca, Indian ginseng, damson, Guanna tea, chlorophyll, baobab or any combination thereof. Mint can be selected from the following mint varieties: wild mint, mint cv, Egyptian mint, peppermint, basil mint cv, peppermint cv, spearmint, heart-leaf spearmint, long-leaf mint, pineapple mint, lip calyx mint, spearmint cv, and apple mint.

[0028] In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or its components, derivatives or extracts, and the plant is tobacco. In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or its components, derivatives or extracts, and the plant is selected from eucalyptus, star anise and cocoa. In some embodiments, the active substance includes or is derived from one or more plants or its components, derivatives or extracts, and the plant is selected from black leaf tea tree and fennel.

[0029] Flavoring

[0030] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes flavorings. As used herein, the terms "flavorings" and "flavors" refer to materials that can be used to produce tastes, aromas, or other physical sensations desired by adult consumers in products, where permitted by local regulations. It can include naturally occurring flavoring materials, plants, plant extracts, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese magnolia leaves, chamomile, fenugreek, cloves, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (fennel), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, cranberry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, citrus, lemon, lime, tropical fruits, papaya, rhubarb, grape , Durian, Pitaya, Cucumber, Blueberry, Mulberry, Citrus Fruit, Durian, Bourbon, Scotch, Whiskey, Gin, Tequila, Rum, Spearmint, Mint, Lavender, Aloe, Cardamom, Celery, Sophora flavescens, Nutmeg, Sandalwood, Bergamot, Geranium, Arabic Tea, Sorghum, Betel Leaf, Coriander, Pine, Honey Essence, Rose Oil, Vanilla, Lemon Oil, Orange Oil, Orange Blossom, Cherry Blossom, Cinnamon, Coriander, Cognac, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Sage, Fennel , mustard, green pepper, ginger, cilantro, coffee, mint oil from any species of the mint family, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, red beans, flax, ginkgo biloba, hazelnuts, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange peel, rose, tea (e.g., green or black), thyme, juniper, elderberry, basil, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, chili pepper, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak, turmeric, coriander, myrtle, black currant, valerian, Spanish bell pepper, mace, dami The invention relates to a composition comprising a flavor enhancer, a bitter taste receptor site blocker, a sensory receptor site activator or stimulator, a sugar and / or sugar substitute (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plants, or breath fresheners. It may be an imitation, synthetic or natural ingredient or a mixture thereof. It may be in any suitable form, for example, a liquid such as an oil, a solid such as a powder, or a gas.

[0031] In some embodiments, flavorings include menthol, spearmint and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, flavorings include flavoring components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruit and / or cranberry. In some embodiments, flavorings include eugenol. In some embodiments, flavorings include flavoring components extracted from tobacco.

[0032] In some embodiments, in addition to or in lieu of aroma or taste nerves, flavoring agents may include sensates that are intended to achieve somatic sensations that are typically chemically induced and sensed by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), and these may include agents that provide heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effects. Suitable thermal effect agents may be, but are not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and suitable cooling agents may be, but are not limited to, eucalyptol, WS-3.

[0033] Aerosol Generating Materials

[0034] Aerosol generating materials are materials that can generate aerosols, for example, when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol generating materials can be, for example, in solid, liquid or gel form, which may or may not contain active substances and / or fragrances. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may include an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "whole solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid (e.g., liquid) inside it. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may, for example, include from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% amorphous solid to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% amorphous solid.

[0035] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavouring agents, one or more aerosol former materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0036] Aerosol former materials

[0037] The aerosol forming agent material may include one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol forming agent material may include one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of diacetyl glycerol, benzyl benzoate, benzylphenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0038] Functional Materials

[0039] The one or more other functional materials may include one or more of a pH adjuster, a colorant, a preservative, a binder, a filler, a stabilizer and / or an antioxidant.

[0040] Matrix

[0041] The material may be present on or in a carrier to form a substrate. The carrier may be or include, for example, paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, the carrier includes a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded in the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or either side of the material.

[0042] Consumables

[0043] A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of an aerosol generating material, some or all of which is intended to be consumed by a user during use. A consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material delivery component, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol modifier. A consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which releases heat during use to cause the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater may, for example, include a combustible material, a material that can be heated by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0044] Receptors

[0045] A susceptor is a material that can be heated by being penetrated with a varying magnetic field (e.g., an alternating magnetic field). The susceptor can be a conductive material such that its penetration by the varying magnetic field results in inductive heating of the heated material. The heated material can be a magnetic material such that its penetration by the varying magnetic field results in hysteresis heating of the heated material. The susceptor can be conductive and magnetic such that the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. In this article, a device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator.

[0046] Aerosol modifiers

[0047] Aerosol modifiers are substances typically located downstream of an aerosol generation region that are configured to modify the generated aerosol, for example by changing the taste, flavor, acidity, or another characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier may be disposed in an aerosol modifier release component that is operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier. For example, the aerosol modifier may be an additive or an adsorbent. For example, the aerosol modifier may include one or more of a flavoring, a coloring agent, water, and a carbon adsorbent. For example, the aerosol modifier may be a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol modifier may be in powder, string, or particle form. The aerosol modifier may be free of filter material.

[0048] Aerosol Generator

[0049] An aerosol generator is a device configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from an aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol generating material to thermal energy so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator can be configured to subject the aerosol generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

[0050] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery system (which may also be referred to as a vapor delivery system), such as a nebulizer or an electronic cigarette. In the following description, the term "electronic cigarette" or "electronic cigarette" may sometimes be used, but it will be understood that this term can be used interchangeably with aerosol delivery system / device and electronic aerosol delivery system / device. In addition, as is common in the art, the terms "aerosol" and "vapor" and related terms such as "evaporation", "aerosolization" and "aerosolization" are often used interchangeably.

[0051] Aerosol delivery systems (electronic cigarettes) typically (although not always) include modular components, which include a reusable device part and a replaceable (disposable / consumable) cartridge part. Typically, the replaceable cartridge part will include an aerosol generating material and a vaporizer (which can be collectively referred to as an "atomizer"), and the reusable device part will include a power source (e.g., a rechargeable power source) and a control circuit. It will be understood that these different parts may include additional elements depending on the function. For example, the reusable device part will typically include a user interface for receiving user input and displaying operating status features, and the replaceable cartridge device part includes a temperature sensor for helping to control the temperature in some cases. The cartridge is electrically and mechanically connected to the control unit for use, for example, using a thread, a bayonet, or a magnetic connection with appropriately arranged electrical contacts. When the aerosol generating material in the cartridge is exhausted, or when the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge with a different aerosol generating material, the cartridge can be removed from the reusable part and the replacement cartridge is attached to its appropriate position. Systems and devices conforming to this type of two-piece modular configuration may generally be referred to as two-piece systems / devices.

[0052] Electronic cigarettes typically have a generally elongated shape. To provide a specific example, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be considered to include such a generally elongated two-piece system using a disposable cartridge. However, it will be understood that the basic principles described herein may be equally applicable to different configurations, such as a one-piece system or a modular system including more than two components, a refillable device and single-use disposables, and other overall shapes, such as high-performance devices based on so-called box-shaped models that typically have a box shape. More generally, it will be understood that certain embodiments of the present disclosure are based on an aerosol delivery system that is operationally configured to provide functionality according to the principles described herein, and that the structural aspects of the system configured to provide functionality according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure are not primarily important. Summary of the invention

[0053] The present invention provides a controller for an aerosol delivery system, which is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material during use. The system includes a device having a power source and a removable cartridge containing an aerosol generating material, and the device and the cartridge are connected via electrical contacts during use, wherein the controller is configured to: adjust a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contacts and having a variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contacts, thereby transmitting data through the electrical contacts.

[0054] The present invention further provides an aerosol delivery device configured to generate an aerosol in use from an aerosol generating material contained in a removable cartridge, the device comprising:

[0055] a. A pair of device electrical contacts;

[0056] b. a power supply configured to supply power to the electrical contacts of the device;

[0057] c. a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the device electrical contacts and having a variable resistance; and

[0058] d. A controller configured to adjust the variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the device electrical contacts for transmitting data to a removable cartridge connectable to the device electrical contacts in use.

[0059] The present invention further provides a removable cartridge for containing an aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol delivery device to generate an aerosol during use, the cartridge comprising:

[0060] a. A pair of cartridge electrical contacts for receiving power from an aerosol delivery device;

[0061] b. a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contacts of the cartridge and having a variable resistance; and

[0062] c. A controller configured to adjust the variable resistor to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contacts of the cartridge, for transmitting data to an aerosol delivery device connectable to the electrical contacts of the cartridge during use.

[0063] The present invention further provides a method of transmitting data in an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol delivery device having a power source and a removable cartridge comprising an aerosol generating material in use, wherein:

[0064] a. The device includes a power source configured to power the removable cartridge via complementary electrical contacts on the device and the cartridge; and

[0065] b. At least one of the device and the cartridge comprises:

[0066] i. a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contacts and having a variable resistance; and

[0067] ii. a controller configured to adjust the variable resistor to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contact,

[0068] c. The method comprises:

[0069] i. The controller of the device or cartridge transmits data to the other of the device and the cartridge via electrical contacts by changing the resistance of the variable resistance component or circuit, thereby providing a variable power signal.

[0070] The claimed invention generally provides a circuit, subassembly or subsystem suitable for use or configured for use in an aerosol delivery system. The subsystem may generally form part of an aerosol delivery system, and in particular may form part of a reusable device and / or a consumable cartridge.

[0071] The claimed arrangement advantageously reduces power consumption, prolongs usage time, thereby providing an improved user experience and environmental benefits. The claimed arrangement also reduces complexity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0072] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0073] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol delivery system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0074] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0075] Figure 3 is a schematic circuit diagram of a certain embodiment according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] Various aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be conventionally implemented, and for the sake of brevity, these aspects and features are not described in detail. Therefore, it will be understood that various aspects and features of the devices and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail may be implemented according to any suitable conventional techniques.

[0077] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol delivery system 1 according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, which provides an introduction to the two-piece aerosol delivery system, the components therein, and their functions.

[0078] The aerosol delivery system 1 includes two main parts, namely a reusable part 2 and a replaceable / disposable consumable cartridge part 4. In normal use, the reusable part 2 and the cartridge part 4 are releasably connected together at an interface 6. When the cartridge part 4 is exhausted or the user simply wishes to switch to a different cartridge part 4, the cartridge part 4 can be removed from the reusable part 2 and a replacement cartridge part 4 is attached to the appropriate position of the reusable part 2. The interface 6 provides a structural, electrical and airflow path connection between the two parts 2, 4, and can be established according to conventional techniques, such as based on threaded, magnetic or bayonet fixings, with appropriately arranged electrical contacts and openings for appropriately establishing electrical connections and airflow paths between the two parts 2, 4. The specific manner in which the cartridge part 4 is mechanically mounted to the reusable part 2 is not important to the principles described herein, but for the sake of specific examples, it is assumed here that a magnetic connector ( Figure 1 ). It will also be understood that the interface 6 may not support electrical connections and / or airflow path connections between the respective parts 2, 4 in some implementations. For example, in some implementations, an aerosol generator may be provided in the reusable part 2 rather than in the cartridge part 4, or the power transmission from the reusable part 2 to the cartridge part 4 may be wireless (e.g., based on electromagnetic induction), so that no electrical connection between the reusable part 2 and the cartridge part 4 is required. In addition, in some implementations, the airflow through the electronic cigarette may not pass through the reusable part 2, so that no airflow path connection between the reusable part 2 and the cartridge part 4 is required. In some cases, when a portion of the reusable part 2 and a portion of the cartridge part 4 are coupled together for use, a portion of the airflow path may be defined at the interface between these parts.

[0079] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the device 2 and the cartridge 4 are connected via the electrical contacts 112, 114 in use, and the device 2 and / or the cartridge 4 include a variable resistance component or circuit 170 connected to the electrical contacts 112, 114 and having a variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contacts 112, 114, thereby transmitting data on the electrical contacts 112, 114. This is further described below with reference to subsequent figures.

[0080] In certain embodiments, the cartridge / consumable portion 4 may be generally conventional. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the cartridge portion 4 includes a cartridge housing 42 formed of a plastic material. The cartridge housing 42 supports the other components of the cartridge portion 4 and provides a mechanical interface 6 with the reusable portion 2. The cartridge housing 42 is generally circularly symmetrical around a longitudinal axis along which the cartridge portion 4 is coupled to the reusable portion 2. In this example, the cartridge portion 4 has a length of approximately 4 cm and a diameter of approximately 1.5 cm. However, the specific geometry and the overall shape and materials used may be different.

[0081] Within the cartridge housing 42 is a chamber or reservoir 44 containing an aerosol generating material. Figure 1 In the example of the embodiment of the present invention, the reservoir 44 stores a supply of liquid aerosol generating material. In this example, the liquid reservoir 44 has an annular shape with an outer wall defined by the cartridge housing 42 and an inner wall defining an airflow path 52 through the cartridge portion 4. The reservoir 44 is closed at each end with an end wall to contain the aerosol generating material. The reservoir 44 can be formed according to conventional techniques, for example, it can include a plastic material and be integrally molded with the cartridge housing 42.

[0082] The cartridge / consumable portion 4 further comprises an aerosol generator 48 positioned towards the end of the reservoir 44 opposite the mouthpiece outlet 50. It will be appreciated that in e.g. Figure 1 In the two-piece system shown, the aerosol generator 48 can be in either the reusable portion 2 or the cartridge portion 4. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generator 48 (e.g., a heater, which can be in the form of a core and coil arrangement as shown, a distiller, which can be formed of a sintered metal fiber material or other porous conductive material, or any suitable alternative aerosol generator) can be included in the reusable portion 2 and brought into proximity with a portion of the aerosol generating material in the cartridge portion 4 when the cartridge portion 4 is engaged with the reusable portion 2. In such an embodiment, the cartridge portion 4 can include a portion of the aerosol generating material, and when the cartridge portion 4 is engaged with the reusable portion 2, the aerosol generator 48 including the heater is at least partially inserted into or at least partially surrounds the portion of the aerosol generating material.

[0083] exist Figure 1 In the example of the embodiment of the present invention, the core 46 in contact with the aerosol generator 48 extends transversely across the cartridge airflow path 52, with its end extending into the reservoir 44 of liquid aerosol generating material through an opening in the inner wall of the reservoir 44. The size of the opening in the inner wall of the reservoir 44 is designed to broadly match the size of the core 46 to provide a reasonable seal to prevent leakage from the liquid reservoir 44 into the cartridge airflow path without over-compressing the core 46, which may impair its fluid transport properties.

[0084] The core 46 and the aerosol generator 48 are arranged in the cartridge airflow path 52 so that the area of ​​the cartridge airflow path 52 around the core 46 and the heater 48 actually defines the evaporation area of ​​the cartridge portion 4. The aerosol generating material in the reservoir 44 penetrates into the core 46 through the end of the core extending into the reservoir 44 and is drawn along the core by surface tension / capillary action (i.e., wicking). In this example, the aerosol generator 48 includes a resistive wire coiled around the core 46. Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the heater 48 comprises a nickel-chromium alloy (Cr20Ni80) wire and the core 46 comprises a fiberglass bundle, but the specific aerosol generator configuration is not important to the principles described herein.

[0085] In use, power may be supplied to the aerosol generator 48 to vaporize a quantity of aerosol-generating material (aerosol-generating material) drawn into proximity of the aerosol generator 48 through the core 46. The vaporized aerosol-generating material may then become entrained in the air drawn along the cartridge airflow path from the vaporization region toward the mouthpiece outlet 50 for inhalation by the user.

[0086] As described above, the rate at which the aerosol generating material is evaporated by the aerosol generator 48 will depend on the amount (level) of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48. Therefore, power can be applied to the aerosol generator 48 to selectively generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material in the cartridge portion 4. In addition, the rate of aerosol generation can be changed by changing the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48, for example by pulse width and / or frequency modulation techniques.

[0087] The reusable portion 2 includes a housing 12 having an opening defining an air inlet 28 for the electronic cigarette; a power source 26 (e.g., a battery) for providing operating power to the electronic cigarette; a control circuit / controller 22 for controlling and monitoring the operation of the electronic cigarette; a first user input button 14; a second user input button 16; and a visual display 24.

[0088] The housing 12 may be formed, for example, from a plastic or metal material and in this example has a circular cross-section that generally conforms to the shape and size of the cartridge portion 4 so as to provide a smooth transition between the two portions 2, 4 at the interface 6. In this example, the reusable portion 2 has a length of approximately 8 cm, so the total length of the electronic cigarette is approximately 12 cm when the cartridge portion 4 and the reusable portion 2 are coupled together.

[0089] The air inlet 28 is connected to the airflow path 51 through the reusable portion 2. When the reusable portion 2 and the cartridge portion 4 are connected together, the reusable portion airflow path 51 is in turn connected to the cartridge airflow path 52 through the interface 6. Thus, when a user inhales at the mouthpiece opening 50, air is drawn through the air inlet 28, along the reusable portion airflow path 51, across the interface 6, through the aerosol generating region near the aerosol generator 48 (where the vaporized aerosol generating material becomes entrained in the airflow), along the cartridge airflow path 52, and out through the mouthpiece opening 50 for inhalation by the user.

[0090] In this example, the power source 26 is rechargeable and can be of a conventional type, such as that commonly used in electronic cigarettes and other applications requiring relatively high current to be provided in a relatively short period of time. The power source 26 can be recharged via a charging connector (e.g., a USB connector) in the reusable portion housing 12.

[0091] Optionally, a first user input button 14 and / or a second user input button 16 may be provided, which in this example are conventional mechanical buttons, for example comprising a spring-loaded component that can be pressed by a user to establish electrical contact. In this regard, the input buttons may be considered to be input means for detecting user input, and the specific manner in which the buttons are implemented is not important. The buttons may be assigned functions such as switching the aerosol delivery system 1 on and off and adjusting user settings (e.g., power supplied from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48).

[0092] A display 24 may be provided to provide a user with a visual indication of various characteristics associated with the aerosol delivery system, such as current power setting information, remaining power of the power supply, and the like. The display may be implemented in various ways. In this example, the display 24 includes a conventional pixelated LCD screen, which can be driven to display the desired information according to conventional techniques. In other implementations, the display may include one or more discrete indicators, such as LEDs, arranged to display the desired information, for example, by a specific color and / or flash sequence. More generally, the manner in which the display 24 is provided and the information is displayed to the user using the display is not important to the principles described herein. For example, some embodiments may not include a visual display and / or may include other devices for providing information related to the operating characteristics of the aerosol delivery system to the user, for example using an audio signal, or may not include any device for providing information related to the operating characteristics of the aerosol delivery system to the user.

[0093] The controller 22 is suitably configured / programmed to control the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1 to provide the functions as described herein, as well as for providing the conventional operating functions of the aerosol delivery system 1. The controller (processor circuit) 22 can be considered to logically include various subunits / circuit elements associated with different aspects of the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1. In this example, the controller 22 includes a power control circuit for controlling the supply of power from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48 in response to user input, a user programming circuit 20 for establishing configuration settings (e.g., user-defined power settings) in response to user input, and functions associated with other functional units / circuits according to the principles described herein and conventional operating aspects of the electronic cigarette, such as display driver circuits and user input detection circuits. The functions of the controller 22 can be provided in a variety of different ways, such as using one or more appropriately programmed programmable computers and / or one or more appropriately configured application specific integrated circuits / circuits / chips / chip sets.

[0094] The controller 22 may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a microcontroller for controlling the aerosol delivery device. The microcontroller or ASIC may include a CPU or a microprocessor. The operation of the CPU and other electronic components is usually at least partially controlled by a software program running on the CPU (or other components). Such software programs may be stored in a non-volatile memory, such as a ROM, which may be integrated into the microcontroller itself, or provided as a separate component. The CPU may access the ROM to load and execute individual software programs when needed.

[0095] The reusable part 2 includes an airflow sensor 30 electrically connected to the controller 22. In most embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 includes a so-called "puff sensor" because the airflow sensor 30 is used to detect when the user puffs on the device. In some embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 includes a switch in an electrical path that supplies power to the aerosol generator 48 from the power supply 26. In such an embodiment, the airflow sensor 30 typically includes a pressure sensor that is configured to close the switch when subjected to a specific range of pressures so that once the pressure near the airflow sensor 30 drops below a threshold, current can flow from the power supply 26 to the aerosol generator 48. The threshold can be set to a value determined by experiment to correspond to a characteristic value associated with the start of the user's puff. In other embodiments, the airflow sensor 30 is connected to the controller 22, and the controller distributes power from the power supply 26 to the aerosol generator 48 according to a signal received by the controller 22 from the airflow sensor 30. The specific manner in which the signal output from the airflow sensor 30 (which may include a measurement of capacitance, resistance, or other characteristics of the airflow sensor performed by the controller 22) is used by the controller 22 to control the supply of power from the power source 26 to the aerosol generator 48 may be performed according to any method known to those skilled in the art.

[0096] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the airflow sensor 30 is mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) 31, but this is not required. The airflow sensor 30 may include any sensor configured to determine the characteristics of the airflow in the airflow path 51 disposed between the air inlet 28 and the mouthpiece opening 50, such as a pressure sensor or transducer (e.g., a membrane or solid-state pressure sensor), a combined temperature and pressure sensor, or a microphone (e.g., an electret-type microphone) that is sensitive to changes in air pressure including acoustic signals. The airflow sensor 30 is located within a sensor cavity or chamber 32, which includes an interior space defined by one or more chamber walls 34. The sensor cavity 32 includes an area within the one or more chamber walls 34, and the airflow sensor 30 may be located in full or in part in the area. In some embodiments, the PCB 31 includes one of the chamber walls of a sensor housing, which includes the sensor cavity / cavity 32.

[0097] The deformable membrane is disposed across an opening communicating between the sensor cavity 32 containing the sensor 30 and a portion of the airflow path disposed between the air inlet 28 and the mouthpiece opening 50. The deformable membrane covers the opening and is attached to one or more chamber walls according to methods further described herein.

[0098] As further described herein, the aerosol delivery system 1 includes a communication circuit configured to enable a connection to be established with one or more additional electronic devices (e.g., a storage / charging housing, and / or a refilling / charging base) to enable data transmission between the aerosol delivery system 1 and the additional electronic devices. In some embodiments, the communication circuit is integrated into the controller 22, and in other embodiments, it is implemented separately. For example, the communication circuit may include a module separate from the controller 22, which provides a dedicated data transmission function for the aerosol delivery device while being connected to the controller 22. In some embodiments, the communication circuit is configured to support communication between the aerosol delivery system 1 and one or more additional electronic devices via a wireless interface. The communication circuit can be configured to support wireless communication between the aerosol delivery system 1 and other electronic devices, such as a housing, a base, a computing device such as a smart phone or PC, a base station supporting cellular communication, a relay node providing a forward connection to a base station, a wearable device, or any other portable or fixed device supporting wireless communication.

[0099] The controller 22, other components within the system 1, and other devices / systems may include one or more processors, and data processing steps may be performed on any of these processors or on a remote processor, with data communicated by wire or wirelessly.

[0100] Wireless communication between the aerosol delivery system 1 and the further electronic device may be configured according to a data transmission protocol such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wifi Direct, GSM, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE, NFC, RFID, or substantially any other wireless and / or wired network protocol or interface. The communication circuitry may include any suitable interface for a wired data connection, such as a USB-C, micro USB, or Thunderbolt interface, and may include a pin or contact pad arrangement configured to engage mating pins or contact pads on a base, housing, cable, or other external device connectable to the aerosol delivery system 1.

[0101] Independent embodiments of the present disclosure include a controller for an aerosol delivery system, the controller being configured to adjust a variable resistance component or circuit connected to electrical contacts and having a variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contacts to transmit data on the electrical contacts, thereby eliminating the need for a separate data communication path.

[0102] Additional independent embodiments include an aerosol delivery device and / or a removable cartridge, which includes a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contacts and having a variable resistance, and a controller configured to adjust the variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contacts for transmitting data via the electrical contacts during use.

[0103] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuit for an aerosol delivery system 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0104] Figure 2 The aerosol delivery system 1 comprises a reusable device portion 2 having a power source 26, and a removable cartridge portion 4 containing an aerosol generating material (not shown), the device 2 and the cartridge 4 being connected during use via electrical contacts 112, 114 on the device 2 and the cartridge 4, respectively. Figure 2 In the embodiment, both the device 2 and the cartridge 4 can provide a variable power signal to their corresponding electrical contacts 112, 114 so as to transmit data to the other of the device 2 and the cartridge 4 on the electrical contacts 112, 114. Figure 2 In the embodiment, the device 2 and the cartridge 4 each include a variable resistance component or circuit 170, which is connected to the corresponding electrical contacts 112, 114 and has a variable resistance to provide a variable power signal. The device 2 and the cartridge 4 also each include a control unit / controller 22.

[0105] In more detail, Figure 2 The device 2 includes a device electrical contact 112 in the form of a pair of positive and negative (ground) spring pins 112, a power source 26 (which may be broadly conventional in some embodiments) configured to power the device electrical contact 112 (to power the cartridge 4), a variable resistance component or circuit 170a that receives power from the power source 26 and is connected to the device electrical contact 112, a variable resistance component or circuit 170a having a variable resistance, and a device control unit / controller 22a that receives power from the power source 26 and is configured to adjust the variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the device electrical contact 112 so as to transmit data to a removable cartridge 4 that can be connected to the device electrical contact 112 in use. Therefore, the variable resistance component or circuit 170a in the device 2 is connected in series with the cartridge 4 in use.

[0106] In some embodiments, the variable resistance component or circuit 170 includes one or more of the following: a variable resistor, a transistor; and / or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). In some embodiments, the variable resistance component or circuit 170 includes an N-type or P-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS or PMOS) field effect transistor (FET) having a resistor connected in parallel therewith. Further specific implementations are discussed with reference to the subsequent figures.

[0107] like Figure 2 As shown, the device 2 may include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) between the power source 26 and the controller 22a. The controller 22a may also be configured to process the variable power signal received from the cartridge 4.

[0108] Figure 2 The cartridge 4 includes: a pair of cartridge electrical contacts 114 in the form of positive and negative (ground) spring pins 114 corresponding to the spring pins 112 on the device 2, for receiving power therefrom; a variable resistance component or circuit 170b having a variable resistance; and a cartridge control unit / controller 22b. The controller 22b receives power from the device 2 and is configured to adjust the variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the cartridge electrical contacts 114 for transmitting data to the device 2. The controller 22b can also be configured to process the variable power signal received from the device 2.

[0109] In this embodiment, the cartridge 4 further includes an aerosol generator 48 and a switch 150 connected to the power supply and controller 22b for selectively switching the variable resistance component or circuit 170b and the aerosol generator 48 (which are also connected to the ground, as shown). The switching function provided by the switch 150 may include selectively actuating (enabling / disabling) the variable resistance component or circuit 170b (for providing data communication) and the aerosol generator 48, independently, for example, non-exclusively or exclusively switching the power supply between the variable resistance component or circuit 170b and the aerosol generator 48. Figure 2 As shown, the cartridge 4 may include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) between the controller 22b and the variable resistance component or circuit 170b. Similarly, a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) may be provided as required.

[0110] As mentioned above, Figure 2 Both the device 2 and the cigarette cartridge 4 are capable of providing a variable power signal to the electrical contacts 112, 114 so as to transmit data to the other of the device 2 and the cigarette cartridge 4 on the electrical contacts 112, 114. This data communication via the existing electrical contacts is extremely beneficial because it avoids the need for a separate data channel in addition to the electrical contacts, thereby improving efficiency and reducing costs. Typically, in most embodiments, only two electrical contacts (e.g., consisting of a positive contact and a negative contact) are required between the device 2 and the cigarette cartridge 4 (for DC power supply), that is, the device 2 may include only two electrical contacts 112 for contacting two complementary electrical contacts 114 on the cigarette cartridge, such as Figure 2 In some embodiments, the electrical contacts 112, 114 may include pogo pins.

[0111] In other examples, data communication may be unidirectional, i.e., only from the device 2 to the cartridge 4, and vice versa. In such examples, the non-transmitting portion does not require a variable resistance component or circuit 170 connected to the electrical contacts to provide a variable power signal, nor does it require a controller 22 configured to provide adjustment of the variable resistance.

[0112] In particular, an aerosol delivery device 2 configured to transmit data to a removable cartridge 4 can be paired with a removable cartridge 4 adapted to receive data from the aerosol delivery device 2, the cartridge 4 comprising: an aerosol generating material; a pair of cartridge electrical contacts 114 for receiving a variable power signal for transmitting data from the aerosol delivery device 2; and a controller 22b configured to process the variable power signal received from the device 2. The cartridge controller 22b is configured to detect changes in the power signal (e.g., low / high resistance / voltage) from the device 2 to receive data.

[0113] Likewise, a removable cartridge 4 (containing an aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol delivery device 4 as part of an aerosol delivery system 1) can be paired with an aerosol delivery device 2 adapted to receive data from the removable cartridge 4, the device 2 comprising a pair of device electrical contacts 112 connectable to the cartridge electrical contacts 114; a power source 26 configured to power the device electrical contacts 112, thereby powering the cartridge 4 via the cartridge electrical contacts 114 in use; and a controller 22a configured to process a variable power signal received from the cartridge 4. The device controller 22a is configured to detect changes in the power signal (e.g., low / high resistance / voltage) from the cartridge 4 to receive data.

[0114] Beneficially, existing devices 2 and / or cartridges 4 including controllers 22 may be retrofitted to work with implementations of devices 2 and / or cartridges 4 that transmit data using a variable resistance component or circuit 170 connected to electrical contacts to provide a variable power signal.

[0115] Further details of the data communication method are now discussed.

[0116] In some embodiments, the controller 22 is configured to transmit data by transmitting a sequence of two or more different power signals. For example, in a simple form, the variable resistance can vary between a first high resistance and a second low resistance. In some embodiments, the high resistance is substantially in the range of 0.5-1.5Ω, preferably 0.7-1.3Ω; and / or the low resistance is substantially in the range of 0-0.5Ω, preferably <0.1Ω. In some embodiments, the low resistance is substantially the minimum resistance of the variable resistance component or circuit 170; and / or the high resistance is substantially the maximum resistance of the variable resistance component or circuit 170.

[0117] This 2-output variability can provide binary (based on 2) data as a 0 / 1 output, and is therefore used to sequentially transmit data in the form of a binary data string over a certain period of time, for example, providing an output of 01011011. The bandwidth can be increased by using a more unique base value, such as a base 16 (hexadecimal) representative number of 16 unique resistance values, for example, providing an output of 0678AF41, which can be a serial number. In this way, data such as a serial number, a cartridge type (e.g., a predetermined type / standard resistance or other properties of an aerosol generator 48 or aerosol generating material, such as composition, viscosity, optimal operating temperature, etc.) can be quickly transmitted between the device 2 and the cartridge 4 without the need for a separate data channel.

[0118] In some embodiments, the controller 22 is configured to perform encoding / decoding, for example, the controller 22 is configured to decode the received variable power signal into a data signal; and / or encode the data signal into a variable power signal. For example, the controller 22b in the cartridge 4 can be configured to encode data such as the properties of the aerosol generating material, the date of manufacture, etc. to be sent to the device 2.

[0119] In some embodiments, the system 1 or the controller 22 can be further configured to adjust one or more operating parameters of the aerosol delivery system 1 based on the received power signal / data. For example, the operating parameters can include any parameters for the aerosol generator 48, such as its power curve (i.e., the supply curve of voltage or current over time, which can depend on the type or standard resistance of the aerosol generator 48, especially if a specific operating temperature of the aerosol generator 48 is desired), and / or other operating parameters, such as the rate of supply or mixing of aerosol generating materials (which can be adjustable, for example, via a valve), air flow entering the system / aerosol flow leaving the system (either of which can be adjusted by a damper), etc.

[0120] Figure 3 is a schematic circuit diagram of a specific embodiment according to the present disclosure, which provides a working example.

[0121] Figure 3 The circuit for device 2 in includes a 4.2V power supply connected to a variable resistance component or circuit 170a, thereby powering the positive electrical contact, wherein device 2 also includes a negative electrical contact for ground. The variable resistance component or circuit 170a typically includes a P-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS or PMOS) field effect transistor (FET) with a resistor connected in parallel therewith, but in other examples not shown here, an N-type MOSFET may be used. Figure 3In , Q8 MOSFET is a NX2301P P-channel field effect transistor (FET), and resistor R11 has a resistance rating of 4.7Ω as a specific example. The device 2 further includes a microcontroller (MCU) 22a that receives power from a 4.2V power supply and provides control signals to the MOSFET.

[0122] Figure 3 The circuit for the cartridge 4 receives power from the 4.2V power supply from the device 2 in use via the positive electrical contact (when the device 2 receives the removable cartridge 4), thereby delivering power to the cartridge microcontroller (MCU) 22b and the switch 150 (having a typical voltage of 3-4V). Figure 3 In the embodiment, the switch 150 generally includes two MOSFETs, more specifically, 2x NX2301P (Q2, Q3) connected in parallel with each other, and each MOSFET receives a control signal from the MCU 22b. The first NX2301P (Q2) is connected in series with the variable resistance component or circuit 170b and then grounded, while the second NX2301P (Q3) is connected in series with the aerosol generator 48, represented here by a 1.4Ω resistor, and then grounded.

[0123] The variable resistance component or circuit 170b includes a third NX2301P (Q4) connected in parallel with a 4.7Ω resistor, where Q4 also receives a control signal from the MCU 22b. An analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is provided between the MCU 22b and the variable resistance component or circuit 170b.

[0124] For the avoidance of doubt, specific values ​​such as resistance and voltage described herein are used to provide specific examples and are not limiting: other values ​​may be used in any combination. The terms "circuit" and "circuitry" are used interchangeably. Furthermore, any specific directional flow paths between components are not limiting: both specific unidirectional and bidirectional communications between any components and / or combinations thereof are expressly contemplated.

[0125] The various embodiments described herein are intended only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative samples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. Any functionality of a processor (e.g., a controller) may be shared between processors on various devices / systems in a wider system and / or remote server. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein are not considered to be limitations on the scope of the invention as defined in the claims, or limitations on the equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized and may be modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention.

[0126] In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments of the present invention may appropriately include, contain, or essentially contain, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, methods, etc. In addition, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future. Protection may also be sought for any features disclosed in any one or more of the disclosed documents cited herein in conjunction with the present disclosure.

[0127] Reference numerals index

[0128] 1 Aerosol delivery system

[0129] 2 Reusable parts

[0130] 4. Cartridge part

[0131] 6 Interface between the reusable part and the cartridge part

[0132] 12 Reusable part shell

[0133] 14.16 User input button

[0134] 20 User programming circuit

[0135] 22 Controller

[0136] 24 Display

[0137] 26 Power Supply

[0138] 28 Air Inlet

[0139] 30 Air flow sensor

[0140] 31. Printed Circuit Board (PCB)

[0141] 32 Sensor cavity or chamber

[0142] 34 chamber wall

[0143] 42 Cartridge Shell

[0144] 44 Chamber or reservoir

[0145] 46 Core

[0146] 48 Aerosol Generator

[0147] 50 Mouthpiece outlet

[0148] 51 Airflow path through reusable part

[0149] 52 Airflow path through the cartridge

[0150] 112 Device electrical contacts

[0151] 114 Cartridge electrical contacts

[0152] 120 Power supply control circuit / circuit system

[0153] 150 Switch

[0154] 170 Variable resistor components or circuits / circuit systems

Claims

1. A controller for an aerosol delivery system, the aerosol delivery system being configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material in use, the system comprising a device having a power source and a removable cartridge containing the aerosol generating material, the device and the cartridge being connected via electrical contacts in use, wherein: The controller is configured as follows: a. Adjusting a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contacts and having a variable resistance to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contacts, thereby transmitting data through the electrical contacts.

2. An aerosol delivery device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material contained in a removable cartridge in use, the device comprising: a. A pair of device electrical contacts; b. a power supply configured to supply power to the electrical contacts of the device; c. a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contacts of the device and having a variable resistance; as well as d. A controller configured to adjust the variable resistor to provide a variable power signal to the device electrical contacts for transmitting data to a removable cartridge connectable to the device electrical contacts in use.

3. A removable cartridge for receiving data from an aerosol delivery device according to claim 2, the cartridge comprising: a. Aerosol generating materials; b. a pair of cartridge electrical contacts for receiving the variable power signal for transmitting data from the aerosol delivery device; as well as c. A controller configured to process a variable power signal received from the device.

4. A removable cartridge containing an aerosol generating material for use with an aerosol delivery device to generate an aerosol during use, the cartridge comprising: a. a pair of cartridge electrical contacts for receiving power from the aerosol delivery device; b. a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contacts of the cartridge and having a variable resistance; as well as c. A controller configured to adjust the variable resistor to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contacts of the cartridge, for transmitting data to an aerosol delivery device that can be connected to the electrical contacts of the cartridge during use.

5. An aerosol delivery device for receiving data from a removable cartridge according to claim 4, the device comprising: a. a pair of device electrical contacts, connectable to the cartridge electrical contacts; b. a power source configured to supply power to the electrical contacts of the device, thereby supplying power to the cartridge via the electrical contacts of the cartridge during use; as well as c. A controller configured to process a variable power signal received from the cartridge.

6. The controller according to claim 1, the device according to claim 2, or the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein: The controller is configured to transmit data by transmitting a sequence of two or more different power signals.

7. An aerosol delivery system comprising: a. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 2 and the cigarette cartridge according to claim 3 or 4; or b. The cigarette cartridge according to claim 4 and the aerosol delivery device according to claim 5.

8. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 7, wherein: The device and the cartridge each include a variable resistance component or circuit connected to their respective electrical contacts and having a variable resistance.

9. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein: The controller configured to adjust the variable resistor to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contact is further configured to process the received variable power signal.

10. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The device and / or the cartridge comprises only two electrical contacts.

11. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The electrical contacts of the device and / or the cartridge consist of a positive contact and a negative contact.

12. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The electrical contacts include pogo pins.

13. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The controller is configured to adjust one or more operating parameters of the aerosol delivery system based on the power signal received from the cartridge and / or the device.

14. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any preceding claim, comprising an aerosol generator and / or an aerosol generating material.

15. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The controller, the aerosol delivery device, the cartridge, or the system is configured to control the power supply to the aerosol generator based on the power signal received from the device and / or the cartridge.

16. A controller, aerosol delivery device, cartridge, or system according to any preceding claim, comprising a switch for selectively actuating the variable resistance component or circuit and / or the aerosol generator.

17. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The variable resistance component or circuit and / or the switch comprises: a. variable resistor; and / or b. transistors; and / or c. Application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

18. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The variable resistance component or circuit comprises: aN-type or P-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS or PMOS) field effect transistor (FET) having a resistor connected in parallel with it.

19. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: In use, the variable resistance component or circuit in the device is connected in series with the cigarette cartridge.

20. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The variable resistor is variable between a first high resistance and a second low resistance.

21. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: a. The high resistance is substantially in the range of 0.5Ω to 1.5Ω, preferably 0.7Ω to 1.3Ω; and / or b. The low resistance is substantially in the range of 0Ω to 0.5Ω, preferably <0.1Ω; and / or c. the low resistance is substantially the minimum resistance of the variable resistance component or circuit; and / or d. The high resistance is substantially the maximum resistance of the variable resistance component or circuit.

22. A controller, an aerosol delivery device, a cartridge, or a system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The controller is configured as follows: a. decoding the received variable power signal into a data signal; and / or b. Encoding a data signal into the variable power signal.

23. A method of transmitting data in an aerosol delivery system, the aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol delivery device having a power source and a removable cartridge comprising an aerosol generating material in use, wherein: a. The device comprises a power source configured to power the removable cartridge via complementary electrical contacts on the device and the cartridge; and b. At least one of the device and the cartridge comprises: i. a variable resistance component or circuit connected to the electrical contacts and having a variable resistance; and ii. a controller configured to adjust the variable resistor to provide a variable power signal to the electrical contact, c. The method comprises: i. The controller of the device or the cartridge transmits data to the other of the device and the cartridge via the electrical contacts by changing the resistance of the variable resistance component or circuit, thereby providing a variable power signal.

24. A computer program product or computer readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to claim 23.

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