Methods and systems for dispensing volatile materials

Abstract

A method of dispensing a volatile material from a volatile material dispenser includes the steps of: identifying a first vapor pressure of a first fragrance feature of the volatile material; a second vapor pressure identifying a second aroma characteristic of the volatile material, the second vapor pressure being different from the first vapor pressure; heating the volatile material to a first temperature associated with the first aroma characteristic; and heating the volatile material to a second temperature associated with the second fragrance characteristic, the second temperature being different from the first temperature.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 395,218 filed on August 4, 2022 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 435,494 filed on December 27, 2022, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 229,043 filed on August 1, 2023, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to methods and systems for dispensing volatile materials, and more particularly to systems and methods for volatilizing liquids containing fragrance mixtures to achieve different scent profiles to customize and improve user control and experience. Background Art

[0004] There are many volatile material diffusion devices or volatile material diffusers on the market. Many of these devices are passive devices that only require ambient airflow to disperse the liquid active material therein. Other devices are battery-powered or receive household electricity through a plug extending from the device. Some known diffusers include a heating element for heating the volatile material to promote its evaporation. Other diffusers use a fan or blower to generate an airflow to guide the volatile material from the diffuser into the surrounding environment. There are also some diffusers that emit volatile materials that use ultrasonic devices to emit the volatile materials therein. The fragrance composition used in the aforementioned volatile material dispenser is composed of a mixture of volatile fragrance raw materials, and it is not uncommon for a fragrance composition to be composed of more than twenty different fragrance raw materials. The chemical properties of the fragrance raw materials in the fragrance composition usually vary greatly in polarity, density, vapor pressure, flash point and other properties.

[0005] One problem with past volatile material diffusers is that users may become accustomed or habituated to a particular volatile material, i.e., the user's perception of a scent emitted at a constant intensity tends to diminish over time, and various diffusers have attempted to mitigate this problem. Some diffusers include a switch or other mechanism controlled by the user, whereby the user can change the intensity level at which the volatile material is emitted (i.e., by adjusting the timing of the release). Still other diffusers include at least two fragrances that are emitted in an alternating sequence. However, emitting two different scents from a volatile material diffuser requires multiple fragrance cartridges and a more complex emission system (e.g., multiple heaters or multiple fans), which may be cost-prohibitive.

[0006] Therefore, it would be useful to have a system and method for dispensing volatile materials that provides a customizable user control and experience and helps address the habituation issue, but does not require additional refills of flavor cartridges. Summary of the invention

[0007] According to some aspects of the present invention, a method of dispensing a volatile material from a volatile material dispenser includes the steps of identifying a first vapor pressure of a first aroma characteristic of the volatile material; identifying a second vapor pressure of a second aroma characteristic of the volatile material, the second vapor pressure being different from the first vapor pressure; heating the volatile material to a first temperature associated with the first aroma characteristic; and heating the volatile material to a second temperature associated with the second aroma characteristic, the second temperature being different from the first temperature. The method also includes the steps of heating the volatile material to the first temperature and the second temperature using modulated pulses. The method also includes the steps of heating the volatile material to the first temperature for a first amount of time, and heating the volatile material to the second temperature for a second amount of time, the second amount of time being different from the first amount of time. In some embodiments, the first aroma characteristic is associated with a first composition that is not a fragrance, and the second aroma characteristic is associated with a second composition that is a fragrance.

[0008] In some embodiments, a method of dispersing a volatile material from a volatile material dispenser includes the step of causing air to flow out of the volatile material dispenser through an air displacement mechanism. In some embodiments, the air displacement mechanism is an air pump. In some embodiments, the air displacement mechanism is a fan. The method also includes the step of controlling the speed of the air displacement mechanism to achieve different scent intensities.

[0009] In some embodiments, a method for dispensing a volatile material from a first material dispenser includes the following steps: providing a refill containing a volatile material; heating the volatile material to a first temperature associated with a first aroma characteristic; heating the volatile material to a second temperature associated with a second aroma characteristic; and heating the volatile material to a third temperature associated with a third aroma characteristic. The first temperature is less than the second temperature, the second temperature is less than the first temperature, and the first aroma characteristic, the second aroma characteristic, and the third aroma characteristic are different from each other. In some embodiments, the first aroma characteristic, the second aroma characteristic, and the third aroma characteristic are identified based on one or more chemical properties of the volatile material. In some embodiments, the one or more chemical properties include vapor pressure. In some embodiments, the first aroma characteristic is associated with a first wattage, the second aroma characteristic is associated with a second wattage, and the third aroma characteristic is associated with a third wattage. The first wattage, the second wattage, and the third wattage are different from each other. In some embodiments, the first wattage, the second wattage, and the third wattage are between about 4.0W and about 6.0W. In some embodiments, the first wattage, the second wattage, and the third wattage are between about 1.0W and about 9.0W.

[0010] In some embodiments, a method for dispensing volatile material within a refill from a volatile material dispenser includes: heating the volatile material to a first temperature; controlling the intensity of a scent of the volatile material using a first switch; controlling the scent characteristic of the volatile material using a second switch, the second switch configured to adjust the heat applied to the volatile material to a second temperature, the second temperature being different from the first temperature; and receiving information from one or more information sources to adjust the volatile material dispenser between the first temperature and the second temperature. In some embodiments, the method may also include a third switch, the third switch being a push button on / off switch.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first switch has a first switch setting associated with a first timing between each operating cycle, a second switch setting associated with a second timing between each operating cycle, and a third switch setting associated with a third timing between each operating cycle. The first timing, the second timing, and the third timing are different from each other. In some embodiments, the first switch is provided via a display screen of an electronic device that communicates with electronic components within the volatile material dispenser.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second switch has a third switch setting associated with a first switch setting defining a first aroma characteristic, a second switch setting defining a second aroma characteristic, and a third switch setting defining a third aroma characteristic. The first aroma characteristic is associated with a first power input, the second aroma characteristic is associated with a second power input, and the third aroma characteristic is associated with a third power input. The first power input, the second power input, and the third power input are different from each other. In some embodiments, the second switch is provided via a display screen of an electronic device that communicates with electronic components within the volatile material dispenser. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a first embodiment of a volatile material dispenser disclosed herein;

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a left side view of a volatile material dispenser;

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A front view of a volatile material dispenser;

[0016] Figure 4 is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the volatile material dispenser taken along line 4-4;

[0017] Figure 5 is along Figure 1a cross-sectional view of the volatile material dispenser taken along the center line 5-5;

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 An isometric view of a volatile material dispenser with the cover removed for clarity;

[0019] Figure 7 is a first graph showing the changing scent characteristics of the first fragrance and the second fragrance based on the power input or temperature of the heater of the volatile material dispenser disclosed herein;

[0020] Figure 8 is a graph showing the changing scent profiles of a first fragrance, a second fragrance, and a third fragrance based on the power input or temperature of the heater of the volatile material dispenser disclosed herein;

[0021] Fig. 9 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a volatile material dispenser disclosed herein;

[0022] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 a front detailed view of a lower end of a volatile material dispenser;

[0023] Fig.11 yes Fig. 9 a right side detailed view of a lower end of a volatile material dispenser;

[0024] Fig.12 yes Fig. 9 a rear view of a volatile material dispenser;

[0025] Fig.13 yes Fig. 9 a bottom view of a volatile material dispenser with a lower housing or base removed for clarity;

[0026] Fig.14 yes Fig. 9 A perspective view of a base or lower housing of a volatile material dispenser;

[0027] Fig.15 yes Fig. 9 A top view of a volatile material dispenser;

[0028] Fig.16 yes Fig. 9 A bottom view of a volatile material dispenser;

[0029] Fig.17 yes Fig. 9 A partial perspective view of a volatile material dispenser of , showing the base or lower housing separated from the upper housing for clarity;

[0030] Fig.18is an electrical schematic diagram of the electrical components of the volatile material dispenser disclosed herein;

[0031] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 An electrical schematic diagram of a user input level of an electrical assembly;

[0032] Fig. 20 yes Fig.18 An electrical schematic diagram of the heating stage of the electrical components;

[0033] Fig.21 yes Fig.18 An electrical schematic diagram of the controller level of the electrical components;

[0034] Fig. 22 yes Fig.18 An electrical schematic diagram of a power stage of an electrical component;

[0035] Fig.23 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device for wirelessly communicating with a receiver of a volatile material dispenser disclosed herein;

[0036] Fig.24 is a block diagram illustrating various inputs and outputs of the volatile material dispenser disclosed herein; and

[0037] Fig.25 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of controlling a volatile material dispenser disclosed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The present invention relates to volatile material dispensing systems and methods that change one or more scent characteristics of volatile materials in a refill by changing the temperature of a heating element, thereby controlling and enhancing the user experience and reducing user habituation. Different but targeted heat can be obtained from the heater using pin-point heater technology (i.e., a small heater that quickly (e.g., a few milliseconds, a few seconds, etc.) reaches the desired temperature). By changing the heat applied to the fragrance, the scent characteristics of the volatile material can be controlled and manipulated to customize and improve the user experience. The systems and methods disclosed herein allow the user to change the power input, thereby changing the temperature of the heating element, to adjust the scent distribution to achieve different scent characteristics.

[0039] By purposefully changing the temperature of the heating element, the user can change the scent profile in a way that reduces habituation without the need for multiple fragrances or refills. Similarly, the user can select a preferred scent distribution to be emitted from the device based on a specific temperature profile, which allows the user to control their own scent experience. The systems and methods disclosed herein address adaptability and scent habituation while providing the user with the ability to create a customized scent experience by using a single refill containing a fragrance or a mixture of fragrances, and the systems and methods disclosed herein are relatively easy and economical to implement compared to systems that require the use of multiple refills. Throughout the disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to a range of ±5% of the numerical value following each term. As described herein, all ranges disclosed in this application include the outer limits of the range.

[0040] See also Figure 1-Figure 6 , shows a volatile material dispenser 60, the volatile material dispenser 60 includes a housing system 62, the housing system 62 has a lower housing 64, an upper housing 66 (see Figure 4-Figure 6 ) and a cover 68. The housing system 62 further defines an upper surface 70, a sidewall surface 72, and an underside or lower surface 74. The surfaces 70, 72, 74 define the outermost surfaces of the housing system 62. Figure 1-Figure 3 , the volatile material dispenser 60 includes an input port 78 that can receive a plug (e.g., a USB-C type plug) for charging or powering the volatile material dispenser 60. In some embodiments, the volatile material dispenser 60 can be powered by a battery. The housing system 62 defines a generally cylindrical profile, wherein the lower housing 64 connects to the cover 68 at a seam 80. In some embodiments, the lower housing 64 connects to the upper housing 66 at the seam 80, and the upper housing 66 can be detachably coupled to the lower housing 64.

[0041] Figure 1-Figure 6 The embodiment does not include an external switch. However, the volatile material dispenser 60 may include a first switch 82 (see Figure 9-11 ) and the second switch 84 (see Figure 9-11 ), a first switch 82 allows the user to control the scent intensity (e.g., low, medium, or high), and a second switch 84 allows the user to control the scent characteristic setting (e.g., apple, apple / cinnamon, cinnamon). Fig.23 As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 1 , the first switch 82 and the second switch 84 may additionally or alternatively be provided via a display screen of an electronic device 86 that communicates with one or more electronic components within the volatile material dispenser 60. It is contemplated that the first switch 82 and the second switch 84 may be provided along a display screen of an electronic device 86. Figure 1-Figure 6 The housing system 62 is provided on one or more surfaces 70 , 72 , 74 , particularly along a side wall surface 72 of the lower housing 64 .

[0042] Reference now Figure 4 and Figure 5 , a dispensing system 90 of a volatile material dispenser 60 is shown in detail, the dispensing system 90 including a refill 92, a control printed circuit board (PCB) 94, at least one light source 96, an air displacement mechanism 98, a hose 100, and a heater 102. A core 104 is also disposed within the heater 102, the core 104 being configured to draw fluid into a heating chamber defined by the heater 102. The heater or heating element 102 is configured to heat a volatile material (not shown) within the refill 92. The volatile material may include one or more compositions, which may be any suitable one or more liquids, and may include one or more active ingredients. Active ingredients include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: a cleaner, an insecticide, an insect repellent, an insect attractant, a disinfectant, a mold or mildew inhibitor, an antimicrobial agent, a fragrance composed of one or more aromatic chemicals, a germicide, an air purifier, an aromatherapy fragrance, a preservative, an odor eliminator, a positive aroma active material, an air freshener, a deodorant, a pharmaceutical composition, an inhalant (e.g., for relieving a cough or congestion) or the like, and combinations thereof.

[0043] Although Figure 1-Figure 6 The air displacement mechanism 98 is an air pump, but alternative air displacement mechanisms 98, such as fans (see Figure 9-Figure 17 ), diaphragm, vacuum pump or compressor. Also shown is at least one light source 96, which is configured as a light emitting diode (LED) that extends from the lower side 74 of the lower housing 64 into a gap 106, which is arranged between the ground engaging surface (not shown) and the lower side 74 of the lower housing 64. An air displacement mechanism 98 is arranged between the upper housing 66 and the lower housing 64 along the periphery of the lower housing 64. The air displacement mechanism 98 includes a fluid or air passage 110 at its lower end, through which air enters a hose 100 connecting the air displacement mechanism 98 and the bottom end of the refill 92. The air passage 110 is fluidly coupled to the bottom end of a refill holder 112 located at the center of the dispenser 60. In the present embodiment, the refill holder 112 is a base or base extending upward from the lower wall 114 of the lower housing 64. However, the refill holder 112 can be positioned along other portions of the housing structure 62 or extend from other portions of the housing structure 62. Heater 102 is also shown as a coil surrounding a wick 104 that is configured to draw liquid into a heating chamber disposed in the center of the refill 92 .

[0044] Still refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 PCB 94 includes various electronic components, which will refer to Figure 18-Figure 24Describe it in detail. Figure 5 , a plurality of magnets 120 are shown that allow the cover 68 and the upper housing 66 to be removably coupled to each other. Optionally, the lower housing 64 and the upper housing 66 can be permanently fixed to each other (e.g., by fasteners (e.g., screws), adhesives, ultrasonic welding, etc.). The light source 96 is centrally arranged along the lower side 74 of the housing system 62. When the volatile material dispenser 60 is placed on a resting surface, a plurality of legs 122 depend downwardly from the lower housing 64 and define a gap 106. An external power cord 124 extends from the lower side 74 of the housing system 62, and the external power cord 124 is removably coupled to the input port 78 (e.g., a USB-C socket) of the volatile material dispenser 60.

[0045] exist Figure 4-Figure 6 , and is disposed in the center of the volatile material dispenser 60. A longitudinal axis 128 is defined through the center of the refill 92. In this embodiment, the longitudinal axis 128 defines the center of the refill 92 and the housing system 62. However, in alternative embodiments, the refill 92 may define the longitudinal axis 128, while the housing system 62 may define a different longitudinal axis and may take a different form. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. Figure 4-Figure 6 As shown, the refill 92 includes a cartridge 130 and may include additional elements, such as a base (not shown) coupled to the cartridge 130. In some embodiments, the cartridge 130 may be a glass fogger, a transparent fogger, or a catalytic fogger, or may be other types of devices for converting liquids into vapors. In the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge 130 includes a canister 132 defining a chamber 134. A refill base 136 may be coupled to the cartridge 130 to define the refill 92. The refill base 136 may be configured as a coupling member that allows the refill 92 to be coupled to one or more components within the system 60. The heater 102, as described above, is configured to heat a liquid (not shown) disposed within the chamber 134 of the canister 132. For example, the cartridge 130 may be an Aspire TM Nautilus tank, the Aspire TM The Nautilus canister implements an adjustable airflow ring at its bottom end that allows for various heat settings. Cartridge 130 includes a removable canister 132 that may include Pyrex glass

[0046] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5, the upper housing 66 also includes an upper aperture 140 that provides an outlet 142 through which the volatile material is dispensed. The outlet 142 is in direct fluid communication with at least one nozzle end 144 of the refill 92, and may also be in communication with an internal cavity 146 defined between the cap 68 and the upper housing 66. In some embodiments, the internal cavity 146 is defined between the upper housing 66 and the lower housing 64. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the internal cavity 146 is not in direct fluid communication with the upper aperture 140 due to the function of the air dispensing system 90, that is, the air displacement mechanism 98 pushes air through the hose 100, the air enters the dispensing cavity 148 within the refill holder 112, mixes with the volatile material within the canister 132 of the refill 92, and is discharged from the nozzle 150 of the refill 92 due to the pressure differential caused by the air displacement mechanism 98. In other embodiments, such as those described below, the air displacement mechanism 98 may be a fan that exhausts air around and / or through the chamber 134 of the refill 92 such that volatile materials are exhausted from the housing system 62 .

[0047] As discussed further below, the volatile material dispenser 60 also includes features that provide enhanced customization and adaptability. Algorithms are used to modify dispenser operating parameters based on user preferences and / or volatile material requirements. Typically, a controller or controller stage (see Fig.21 ) operates the diffuser 60 according to a preprogrammed sequence that is designed to reduce habituation. More specifically, an algorithm is used to vary the temperature applied to the heater and the output of the distribution system 90 (e.g., controlling the speed or revolutions per minute (RPM) of the air displacement mechanism 98). For example, pulse width modulation ("PWM") can be used to adjust the heater 102 to different temperatures according to various duty cycles. Varying the temperature of the heater 102 and the speed of the fan results in different fragrance intensities, which prevents the user from adapting to the fragrance. The operation of the diffuser 60 can be adjusted by the user directly manipulating controls on the diffuser 60, or wirelessly adjusted through the user's mobile device (see Fig.23 ). In some embodiments, the heater 102 is configured to achieve a temperature between about 125°F to about 275°F, or between about 150°F to about 250°F, or between about 175°F to about 225°F. The heater 102 may include one or more resistors having a resistance value between about 0.5 ohms (Ω) to about 15.0Ω, or between about 1.5Ω to about 10.0Ω, or between about 2.5Ω to about 7.5Ω, or between about 3.5Ω to about 5.0Ω.

[0048] The present invention relates to a volatile material dispenser that is configured to emit any fragrance in any fragrance or fragrance combination. More specifically, the volatiles configured to be used with the volatile material dispenser 60 disclosed herein may include any fragrance raw materials listed in U.S. Patent No. 9,855,361, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As described above, many fragrances include many different fragrance raw materials, each of which has its own chemical characteristics or properties, which are generally different in polarity, density, vapor pressure, flash point and other properties. By identifying the chemical characteristics of the vapor pressure of various fragrance raw materials or fragrance raw material combinations, a target fragrance feature or characteristic can be released from the volatile material dispenser 60. By referring to the vapor pressure of the identified fragrance, a specific amount of energy or heat can be applied to the volatiles in the refill 92, which can obtain a target fragrance feature from the volatiles, thereby allowing the fragrance habit to be reduced.

[0049] As used herein, the term "fragrance" refers to any substance or mixture of substances, such as perfumes, designed to emit a fragrant smell. A variety of chemicals are known for fragrance (i.e., perfume) purposes, including substances such as aldehydes, ketones, and esters. More generally, naturally occurring plant and animal oils and secretions containing complex mixtures of various chemical components are known to be used as fragrances.

[0050] In some embodiments, the spices of the present application may include a single chemical substance, or may include a complex mixture of natural and synthetic chemical components, all of which are selected to provide any desired odor. For example, the spices of the present application may include one or more fragrance raw materials. The term "fragrance raw material" used herein refers to any compound (e.g., a compound having a molecular weight of at least 100 g / mol) or substance, which can be used alone or in combination with other "fragrance raw materials" to impart odor, fragrance, essential oil (essence) or aroma. Technicians in the field of spices and perfumes refer to mixtures of fragrance raw materials as "accords". The term "accord" used herein refers to a mixture of two or more fragrance raw materials, which are cleverly combined to impart fragrance, odor, essential oil or aroma characteristics.

[0051] Reference now Figure 7 and Figure 8 , provides two graphs showing different aroma characteristics comparing temperature and aroma intensity. Figure 7 , provides a bi-modal graph depicting the release of apple-cinnamon flavor based on the power input or temperature of the heater 102. Figure 7In a particular embodiment of the present invention, less power or heat (e.g., a first power or a first temperature) is required to emit a first aroma that smells more like a first aroma profile 160 of "apple", slightly more heat (e.g., a second power or a second temperature) is required to cause the volatile material dispenser 60 to emit a second aroma that smells more like a second aroma profile 162 of "apple-cinnamon", and even more heat (e.g., a third power or a third temperature) is required to cause the volatile material dispenser 60 to emit a third aroma that smells more like a third aroma profile 164 of "cinnamon". The first aroma profile 160 defining an "apple" aroma is the result of the first composition 166 reaching an optimal temperature, and the third aroma profile 164 defining a "cinnamon" aroma is the result of the second composition 168 reaching an optimal temperature. A third composition 170 may also be included, as discussed in detail below.

[0052] refer to Figure 8 , shows a tri-modal fragrance, which may include, for example, the fragrance characteristics of "lavender", "jasmine" and "vanilla". In some embodiments, one or more additional fragrance characteristics may be included, and each fragrance characteristic may have a different optimal fragrance release temperature, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 The peak value in the curve is shown in Figure 8 In the example of , the first scent characteristic 160 smells more like a "lavender" scent with a hint of "jasmine" and "vanilla", the second scent characteristic 162 smells more like a "jasmine" scent with a more subtle "lavender" and "vanilla" scent, and the third scent characteristic 164 smells more like a "vanilla" scent with a hint of "jasmine" and "lavender". More scent characteristics may be included, and additional non-fragrance compositions may be included and configured to be released in one or more temperature regimes, as described in more detail below.

[0053] By switching the heater 102 to a lower or first setting via the second switch 84, the user can emit a first aroma profile 160. By switching the heater 102 to an intermediate or second setting, the user can emit a second aroma profile 162. And by switching the heater 102 to a higher or third setting, the user can emit a third aroma profile 164 based on the heating characteristics of the composition 166, 168. Referring again to Figure 7 , the first aroma characteristic 160 corresponds to an "apple" aroma with a slight "cinnamon" aroma, the second aroma characteristic 162 corresponds to a relatively equal mixture of "apple" and "cinnamon", and the third aroma characteristic 164 corresponds to a "cinnamon" aroma with a slight "apple" aroma. By allowing three different aroma characteristics to be emitted from the diffuser 60 based on selection input from the user, the diffuser 60 is configured to provide the user with the ability to select an aroma within a predetermined minimum and maximum limit range.

[0054] It should be noted that intensity selection can also be made via the first switch 82 of the diffuser 60, for example, a high, medium, or low intensity selection. The first switch 82 controls the amount of time that is activated and / or the amount of time between activations or operating cycles. The scent profile selection allows the end user to select a scent profile by manipulating the second switch 84 between two or more scent profile selections. When combined along the diffuser 60, the first switch 82 and the second switch 84 can include one or more multi-position selector switches, capacitive switches, or other types of switches. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the first aroma characteristic 160, the second aroma characteristic 162, and the third aroma characteristic 164 are associated with different predetermined heating powers, which can be predetermined based on the identified vapor pressure of each specific aroma to be emitted from the dispenser 60, which corresponds to the temperature achieved based on the specified power setting (e.g., 5.0W, 5.5W, and 6.0W). In some embodiments, the second switch 84 may include discrete positions so that only a predetermined number (e.g., 2, 3, 4, etc.) of aroma characteristics can be achieved. However, in alternative embodiments, an unlimited number of aroma characteristics can be achieved. To this end, the second switch 84 can be a dial (not shown) that can be moved between the minimum setting and the maximum setting, and can be adjusted to achieve an unlimited number of temperature settings. Although the range of 5.0 to 6.0W is discussed, various other heating distributions are also possible (e.g., between 1.0W and 9.0W), and can be selected based on the fragrance present in the refill 92.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first aroma characteristic 160 is achieved using a temperature scheme in one of the following temperature schemes (although a varying power scheme may also be used depending on the type of aroma to be emitted). In some embodiments, the first aroma characteristic 160 is achieved at a temperature within a first range of about 150°F to about 200°F, or about 160°F to about 190°F, or about 175°F. In some embodiments, the second characteristic is achieved at a temperature within a second range of about 175°F to about 225°F, or about 185°F to about 215°F, or about 200°F. In some embodiments, the third aroma characteristic is achieved at a temperature within a third range of about 200°F to about 250°F, or about 210°F to about 240°F, or about 225°F. In some embodiments, the aroma profile may be identified as being consistent with a predefined temperature scheme (e.g., 175°F, 200°F, and 225°F) of the dispenser 60. To this end, a first fragrance having an aroma characteristic obtained within a first temperature range can be identified, a second fragrance having an aroma characteristic obtained within a second temperature range can be identified, and a third fragrance having an aroma characteristic obtained within a third temperature range can be identified.

[0056] about Figure 8 , the second switch 84 allows the user to select an optimal temperature that allows the achievement of scent characteristics associated with the first composition 166, the second composition 168, and the third composition 170. The first composition 166 defines a first scent characteristic 160 (e.g., "lavender"), the second composition 168 defines a second scent characteristic 162 (e.g., "jasmine"), and the third composition 170 defines a third scent characteristic 164 (e.g., "vanilla"). The scent characteristics 160, 162, 164 may be associated with peaks in the scent intensity of the chemical compositions 166, 168, 170, or the scent characteristics may be associated with relative increases in scent intensity.

[0057] To this end, the third aroma characteristic 164 is shown as being associated with an increase in the aroma intensity of the third composition 170, but may not be associated with a peak intensity. Figure 8 In the example of FIG. 1 , first scent characteristic 160 is associated with the peak scent intensity of first composition 166. In some embodiments, the scent characteristics are associated with the peak scent intensity of the corresponding composition, or only some of the scent characteristics are associated with the peak scent intensity. In addition, in some embodiments, the scent characteristics can be associated with non-fragrance active substances (e.g., pest control active substances) that can evaporate at a higher rate than other compositions within refill 92. In such embodiments, the scent characteristics reflect the attributes or characteristics of the unscented composition.

[0058] Reference again Figure 7 In some embodiments, the first composition 166 is a non-scented pest control active substance and the second composition 168 is a fragrance. In such an embodiment, the non-scented pest control product can be emitted at a higher concentration and a lower temperature, or vice versa, and the fragrance can be emitted at a higher concentration and a higher temperature, or vice versa. Since the second composition 168 containing the fragrance is not perceptible at a first temperature or lower, but is perceptible at a second temperature or higher temperature different from the first temperature, the dispenser 60 disclosed herein can be used as a pest control product that can operate in a non-scented insect repellent mode and a scented insect repellent mode.

[0059] In some embodiments, a fourth switch (not shown) may be implemented that may be configured to allow a user to manually select a cartridge setting based on the type of cartridge 130 or the fragrance or volatile material within the cartridge 130. In some embodiments, the fourth switch may be adjusted between 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more cartridge settings, and each cartridge setting may be associated with a specific or predetermined power scheme. As a result, a first cartridge may be associated with a first power scheme, a second cartridge may be associated with a second power scheme different from the first power scheme, and a third cartridge may be associated with a third power scheme different from the first power scheme and the second power scheme. In some embodiments, a first cartridge may be associated with a first fragrance, a second cartridge may be associated with a second fragrance different from the first fragrance, and a third cartridge may be associated with a third fragrance different from the first fragrance and the second fragrance. The fourth switch (not shown) may be a sliding switch or may be another type of switch disclosed herein. In addition, the fourth switch may be accessed from the display screen of the electronic device 86.

[0060] In some embodiments, the fragrance in the cartridge can be identified based on one or more cartridge features manually input by a user or automatically detected by one or more sensors in the dispenser 60. To this end, the dispenser 60 may include one or more sensors, such as infrared (IR) sensors, optical sensors, weight sensors, Hall effect sensors, one or more magnets, radio frequency identification (RFID) sensors, barcode scanners, two-dimensional code scanners, proximity sensors, reflective photo interpreters, humidity sensors, fluid properties sensors, light sensors, alcohol sensors, or other types of sensors. In some embodiments, the electronic device 86 can be configured to retrieve data that provides information about sensory input collected from the above sensors to the dispenser 60. For example, the electronic device 86 can be configured as a two-dimensional code scanner (e.g., through a camera) that can scan a two-dimensional code along the exterior of the cartridge 130.

[0061] In some embodiments, data from one or more of the above-described sensors (not shown) can be received by the memory and / or processor (as described in more detail below), and the information stored in the lookup table can be compared with the data retrieved by any of the sensors. The identified fragrance or aroma signature of the volatile material can be determined based on the comparison of the data with the information stored in the lookup table. However, as described above, the user can manually input information identifying the type of cartridge, such as via a fourth switch. In some embodiments, the cartridge includes two fragrances that are configured to release two different aroma signatures, i.e., the cartridge is a two-tone cartridge (e.g., Figure 7 In some embodiments, the cartridge includes three flavors configured to release three different flavor characteristics, i.e., the cartridge is a three-color cartridge (e.g. Figure 8In some embodiments, the cartridge is configured to release four different aroma characteristics, i.e., the cartridge is a four-tone cartridge. In some embodiments, the volatile material can be identified based on data retrieved by the one or more sensors described above combined with data manually input by the user.

[0062] In some embodiments, the cartridge 130 is provided with a lock-and-key feature (e.g., a protrusion provided along the upper edge of the cartridge 130) that can provide information to the dispenser 60 about the volatile material within the cartridge 130. The lock-and-key feature can be provided along the outer surface of the cartridge 130, or can be provided along the inner surface of the cartridge 130 (e.g., along a channel defining the mouth of the cartridge 130). The dispenser 60 can be configured to detect the type of volatile material within the cartridge 130 based on the location of the lock-and-key feature, e.g., an apple-cinnamon cartridge can be identified based on the location of two radially offset protrusions along the outer surface of the cartridge 130.

[0063] In some embodiments, the power limits may be variable or different for different fragrances or desired fragrance profiles. Additionally, the intensity limits (e.g., on time / off time between activations) may also be different for different fragrances. In some embodiments, both the fragrance profile and the intensity limits may change throughout operation of the volatile material dispenser 60, e.g., due to changes that may occur over time or due to one or more of a plurality of external factors that may be measured or identified automatically or based on user input. In some embodiments, automatic triggering may cause the fragrance profile or intensity limits (e.g., minimum and maximum switch positions) to be adjusted, e.g., based on the time of day, measured room temperature, season of the year, or information received from the electronic device 86 (see Fig.23 ) to adjust the vital signs of the person, the electronic device 86 is, for example, a mobile phone, a smart watch, or another type of device with a sensor or capable of receiving user input. Fig.24 ) receives user input, which environmental sensors may include external sensors along any number of devices that are configured to communicate directly with the volatile material dispenser 60 or with the electronic device 84 and are configured to provide feedback to the dispenser 60. Changes in intensity levels may also be triggered by a request from an application or by direct physical interaction with the dispenser 60.

[0064] When the refill 92 is thermally connected to the heater 102, different aroma characteristics are emitted, and the heater 102 can be a pinpoint heater. By using a heater (such as the heater 102 disclosed herein), the desired temperature can be reached relatively quickly. In some embodiments, the heater 102 can be "turned on" for a few seconds every few minutes. During activation, the power level delivered to the heater 102 can vary (e.g., between the power setting range) to achieve an average target power setting (e.g., 5.0W) during activation. In other examples, the heater 102 is activated and maintained at a constant power level throughout the activation process. By using pulse width modulation, the heater 102 can be adjusted to different temperature ranges, and by achieving a varying temperature, different aroma characteristics can be generated and output. Since a small deviation in temperature may not result in different aroma characteristics that can be perceived by the user, some embodiments of the present disclosure implement discrete settings that provide different aroma characteristics (e.g., "apple", "apple-cinnamon" and "cinnamon") that can be perceived by the user.

[0065] In some embodiments, the scent profile may be enhanced by varying durations of operation, varying frequencies of operation (e.g., once every 5 minutes and once every 15 minutes), an algorithm that changes the activation temperature in a predetermined manner, an on / off timer, or by varying the speed of the air displacement mechanism 98 when the heater 102 is turned “on”. Figure 1-Figure 6 In the described embodiments, the user is able to control the various parameters discussed above through an application (app), which allows the user to change the characteristics of the scent by selecting different predetermined operating points related to the scent characteristics. In some embodiments, the operating points can be predetermined or pre-programmed. Although the embodiments disclosed herein are primarily directed to needle tip heaters, plug-in scented oil (PISO) heaters can also be used with the volatile material dispensers disclosed herein.

[0066] Reference now Figure 9-Figure 17 , another embodiment of a volatile material dispenser 60 is shown. The volatile material dispenser 60 includes a housing system 62, which includes a lower housing 64, an upper housing 66, and a cover 68. A third switch 174 is shown along the lower housing 64, which will be described in more detail below. In this embodiment, the upper housing 66 is visible from the outside, and the cover 68 opens outward from the upper end 172 of the upper housing 66. Fig.10 , a first switch 82 is shown, which allows the user to control the intensity of the fragrance (e.g., low, medium or high). Fig.11 , a second switch 84 is shown that allows the user to control the scent profile settings, for example, "apple" (A), "apple / cinnamon" (B), and "cinnamon" (C). Figure 9-11, a third switch 174 is shown, which is an external on / off or power switch, and a foot 122 of the volatile material dispenser 60, which defines a gap 106 between the underside 74 of the lower housing 64 and a resting surface (not shown). In this embodiment, the gap 106 allows air to be drawn into the lower housing 64 via the air displacement mechanism 98, which in this embodiment is a fan. See Fig.12 , the volatile material dispenser 60 includes an input port 78 that can receive a plug (eg, a USB-C type plug) that can be used to charge or power the dispenser 60. As described above, in some embodiments, the volatile material dispenser 60 can be powered by a battery.

[0067] Now refer to Fig.13 and Fig.14 , showing various electronic components of the volatile material dispenser 60. Fig.13 , a first PCB 176 is shown disposed at a lower end 180 of the upper housing 66, a first terminal 178 extends from the first PCB 176, and first and second wires 182 extend from the first PCB 176 toward an upper end 172 of the upper housing 66. The refill holder 112 is shown disposed at the upper end 172 of the upper housing 66. A plurality of heaters 102 are disposed along an inner circumferential surface 184 of the refill holder 112, and the heaters 102 are electrically coupled to the PCB 94 via the wires 182, and thereby electrically coupled to the first terminals 178.

[0068] refer to Fig.14 , an upper end 186 of the lower housing 64 is shown, the upper end 186 including radially spaced holes 188. An inner platform 190 is disposed radially inwardly of the holes 188, the inner platform 190 being integral with a support post 192 that extends radially outwardly from the inner platform 190 and is integral with an outer platform 194. Fan blades 196 of a fan (air displacement mechanism 98) are visible through the holes 188. A second terminal 198 is also shown disposed within the embedding area 200 of the lower housing 64, the second terminal 198 being electrically coupled to a second PCB (not shown) that is disposed within the lower housing 64 and that may be the control PCB 94. Various other electronic components disclosed herein (e.g., Figure 18-Figure 24 Although not shown in this embodiment, a plurality of LEDs 96 may be disposed within the lower housing 64 or along the outer surfaces 70, 72, 74 of the housing system 62.

[0069] Reference now Fig.15 and Fig.16 , showing Fig. 9 The top and bottom views of the diffuser. Fig.15, showing the cover 68 and the upper housing 66 and the upper aperture 140 through which the volatiles are configured to be emitted. The longitudinal axis 128 extends centrally through the upper aperture 140, and the housing system 62 is generally radially symmetrical about the longitudinal axis 128. Fig.16 , showing the bottom end of the lower housing 64 and the plurality of legs 122. A plurality of air intake gaps 204 are provided along the lower side 74, and the plurality of air intake gaps 204 allow air to be drawn into the lower housing 64. As described above, the lower housing 64 can accommodate various electronic components, as described below. Fig.17 , the upper housing 66 and the lower housing 64 are shown adjacent to each other such that the first terminal 178 is configured to be electrically coupled with the second terminal 198 .

[0070] Reference now Figure 18-Figure 25 , showing various electrical schematics and flow charts. Fig.18 , a schematic diagram illustrating an electrical assembly 210 for use in the volatile material dispenser 60 disclosed herein is shown. The electrical assembly 210 includes a user input stage 212, a heating stage 214, a controller stage 216, and a power stage 218. Specifically, the power stage 218 is configured to receive power from a power source (e.g., a wall outlet, a battery, a car ignition outlet, or other power source). The power source can be alternating current or direct current. The power stage 218 manages the received power to operate the various electronic components of the electrical assembly 210, including powering the heating element 102 and the air displacement mechanism 98.

[0071] refer to Fig.19 , a user input stage 212 is shown, which includes a first switch 82, a second switch 84 and a third switch 174. Figure 9-Figure 17 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first switch 82 is a three-position sliding switch and is configured to control the fragrance intensity of the volatile material; the second switch is also a three-position sliding switch and is configured to control the fragrance characteristics of the volatile material; the third switch 174 is a push button on / off switch and is configured to control the power from the power supply to the volatile material dispenser 60. There may be more or fewer switches to control other aspects of the electrical assembly 210. In some embodiments, the switches can have 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more discrete settings from a minimum limit to a maximum limit. In some embodiments, the switches 82, 84 can have an unlimited number of settings from a minimum limit to a maximum limit.

[0072] With respect to the first switch 82 configured to control the intensity of the scent, the first switch setting may define a "low" setting that may set the heating element 102 to be spaced 5 minutes between each operating cycle. The second switch setting may define a "medium" setting that may set the heating element 102 to be spaced 3 minutes between each operating cycle. The third switch setting may define a "high" setting that may set the heating element to be spaced 1 minute between each operating cycle. By adjusting the first switch 82 between three or more switch settings, the timing between operating cycles may be different, and thus different scent intensities may be achieved.

[0073] With respect to the second switch 84 configured to control an aroma profile, a first switch setting may define a first aroma profile 160, which may be "apple," a second switch setting may define a second aroma profile 162, which may be "apple-cinnamon," and a third switch setting may define a third aroma profile 164, which may be "cinnamon." The first aroma profile 160 of "apple" may be associated with 4.0 watts (W) of power delivered to the heating element 102 or the diffuser 60. The second aroma profile of "apple-cinnamon" may be associated with 5.0 W of power delivered to the heating element 102 or the diffuser 60. The third aroma profile 164 of "cinnamon" may be associated with 6.0 W of power delivered to the heating element 102 or the diffuser 60. Other electronic components, such as the air displacement mechanism 98, may consume power, so the power delivered to the heater 102 may be less than the power delivered to the entire system. In some embodiments, a power of 4.0 W may be associated with a "low" setting, a power of 5.0 W may be associated with a "medium" setting, and a power of 6.0 W may be associated with a "high" setting. As described above, different aroma profiles may be defined by any two aroma profiles that define different vapor pressures. In a preferred embodiment, different aroma characteristics may be perceived by the user to reduce habituation.

[0074] The third switch 174 is configured as a power switch and is used to "turn on" and "turn off" the volatile material dispenser 60. When the third switch 174 is activated to the "on" position, the controller stage 216 can use the power provided by the power stage 218 to direct current to the heating element 102 and the air displacement mechanism 98. Once the target temperature associated with the position of the second switch 84 is reached, the controller stage 216 can cut off the current supplied to the heating stage 214, while continuously monitoring the current temperature of the heating element 102 using a signal provided by a thermistor or another environmental sensor arranged on or near the heating element 102. When the measured temperature drops to a predetermined value, the controller stage 216 can restore the current to start another operating cycle. In some embodiments, a pulse width modulation (PWM) algorithm can be used to allow the heating element 102 to heat up quickly, which in turn will allow faster fragrance release or volatile release.

[0075] Reference now Fig. 20 , the heater stage 214 is shown in detail. The heater stage 214 includes a plurality of resistors, however, more or fewer resistors are also contemplated. Fig.21 The control stage 216 is used to control the operation of the heating element 102 and other electronic components (e.g., the light emitting diode 96 and the air displacement mechanism 98). Fig. 22 , a power stage 218 is shown. The power stage 218 may include a voltage regulator 220, and may also include a plurality of other electronic components, including capacitors, resistors, inductors, diodes, etc. In addition, as shown in FIG. Fig. 22 As shown, the power stage 218 may also include one or more fuses. In some embodiments, the electrical assembly 210 may include a timer that allows the control stage 216 to shut down specific electronic components within a predetermined amount of time. Fig.21 Specific implementations are shown in the drawings, but any number of modifications and variations are possible to provide the functions described above and other functions.

[0076] Reference now Fig.23, schematically showing a control PCB 94 and an electronic communication device 86. As described above, the control PCB 94 includes a plurality of components arranged thereon, which may include a wireless communication device or receiver 222, which may be a module supporting wireless communication. The control PCB 94 may also include a first regulator and a second regulator, either of which may be a voltage regulator. The wireless communication device 222 may support Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) wireless communication, Wi-Fi, or other types of wireless communication. In a preferred embodiment, the wireless communication device 222 includes one or more on-board crystal oscillators, a chip antenna, and / or passive components. The wireless communication device 222 may support a variety of peripheral functions, such as ADC, timer, counter, PWM, and serial communication protocols (e.g., I2C, UART, SPI) through its programmable architecture. The electronic device 86 may include a processor, flash memory, a timer, and additional components not specifically described herein. The electronic device 86 may be used to collect information (e.g., user preferences, switch selections, and environmental factors) and transmit it to the control PCB 94. In some embodiments, the electronic device 86 is used to collect environmental factors using environmental sensors.

[0077] Reference now Fig.24, the controller stage 216 receives information from various information sources, which may include environmental sensors 224, user input 226, and / or information about chemical characteristics 228 in a lookup table, which chemical characteristics 228 are from a set of aroma characteristics. In some embodiments, the environmental sensor 224 may include the sensors listed above, which can detect the type of volatile material in the barrel 130 or the barrel 130. The controller stage 216 may include a processor (not shown) that processes the information to determine the optimal power level for each discrete aroma characteristic conversion level, that is, the optimal heating temperature can be determined to produce the desired aroma. In addition, the controller stage 216 can determine the power level sent to the air distribution device 98 to produce the desired airflow. The environmental sensors 224 that can be used may include, but are not limited to, microphones, cameras, turbidity sensors, thermometers, humidity sensors, passive infrared sensors, light sensors, lightning sensors, wind sensors, compasses, GPS, gyroscopes, accelerometers, barometers, collision sensors, proximity sensors, radars, ultrasonic sensors, or any combination thereof. The chemical characteristics can be measured by the device or transmitted to the device by a wireless communication device or other means. Some user inputs 226 may include, but are not limited to, run time preferences, intensity levels, and scent selections. The controller stage 216 receives information from the environmental sensors 224, the user inputs 226, and the chemical characteristics 228 of the volatiles, and adjusts the diffuser 60 to achieve the desired heating temperature 230 and the desired airflow 232 of the air distribution device 98.

[0078] exist Fig.25 , a method 240 for dispensing a volatile material is shown, which may include more or fewer steps than shown. In a first step 242, a first aroma characteristic is identified based on a first chemical property of the volatile material. In a second step 244, a second aroma characteristic is identified based on a second chemical property of the volatile material. In step 246, a first heating temperature is identified based on the first chemical property. In step 248, a second heating temperature is identified based on the second chemical property, wherein the first heating temperature is lower than the second heating temperature. In step 250, a heating element is heated to a first temperature for a first amount of time. In step 252, the heating element is heated to a second temperature for a second amount of time.

[0079] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, although the invention has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, the invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and deviations to the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be covered by the appended claims. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated herein by reference, just as if each such patent or publication was individually incorporated herein by reference.

[0080] Any embodiment described herein can be modified to include any structure or method disclosed in conjunction with a different embodiment. In addition, the present disclosure is not limited to the type of dispensing system specifically shown. In addition, the method and system of any embodiment disclosed herein can be modified to be applicable to any type of volatile material dispenser.

[0081] Industrial Applicability

[0082] In view of the foregoing description, many modifications to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this description should be understood to be illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use the present invention. The present disclosure reserves the exclusive rights to all modifications within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for dispensing a volatile material from a volatile material dispenser, comprising the steps of: identifying a first vapor pressure of a first aroma characteristic of the volatile material; identifying a second vapor pressure of a second aroma characteristic of the volatile material, the second vapor pressure being different from the first vapor pressure; heating the volatile material to a first temperature associated with the first aroma characteristic; and The volatile material is heated to a second temperature associated with the second aroma note, the second temperature being different from the first temperature.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: Air is directed out of the volatile material dispenser by an air displacement mechanism.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The air replacement mechanism is an air pump.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The air displacement mechanism is a fan.

5. The method according to claim 4, further comprising the steps of: The speed of the air displacement mechanism is controlled to achieve different scent intensities.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: The volatile material is heated to the first temperature and the second temperature using modulated pulses.

7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: The volatile material is heated to the first temperature for a first amount of time, and the volatile material is heated to the second temperature for a second amount of time, the second amount of time being different than the first amount of time.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The first scent note is associated with a first composition that is not a fragrance, and the second scent note is associated with a second composition that is a fragrance.

9. A method for dispensing a volatile material from a first material dispenser, comprising the steps of: providing a refill containing a volatile material; heating the volatile material to a first temperature associated with a first aroma characteristic; heating the volatile material to a second temperature associated with a second aroma characteristic; and heating the volatile material to a third temperature associated with a third aroma characteristic; wherein the first temperature is lower than the second temperature, and the second temperature is lower than the first temperature, and Wherein, the first aroma characteristic, the second aroma characteristic and the third aroma characteristic are different from each other.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The first aroma characteristic, the second aroma characteristic, and the third aroma characteristic are identified based on one or more chemical properties of the volatile material.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The one or more chemical properties include vapor pressure.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The first aroma note is based on a first fragrance raw material, the second aroma note is based on a second fragrance raw material, and the third aroma note is based on a third fragrance raw material, and The first fragrance raw material, the second fragrance raw material and the third fragrance raw material are different from each other.

13. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The first aroma characteristic is associated with a first wattage, the second aroma characteristic is associated with a second wattage, and the third aroma characteristic is associated with a third wattage, and Wherein, the first wattage, the second wattage and the third wattage are different from each other.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The first wattage, the second wattage, and the third wattage are between about 4.0W and about 6.0W.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein: The first wattage, the second wattage, and the third wattage are between about 1.0W and about 9.0W.

16. A method for dispensing a volatile material within a refill from a volatile material dispenser, the method comprising: heating the volatile material to a first temperature; controlling the intensity of the scent of the volatile material using a first switch; controlling a scent characteristic of the volatile material using a second switch, the second switch configured to adjust heat applied to the volatile material to a second temperature, the second temperature being different from the first temperature; and Information is received from one or more information sources to adjust the volatile material dispenser between the first temperature and the second temperature.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein: the first switch having a first switch setting associated with a first timing between each operating cycle, a second switch setting associated with a second timing between each operating cycle, and a third switch setting associated with a third timing between each operating cycle, and The first timing, the second timing and the third timing are different from each other.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein: the second switch having a first switch setting defining a first aroma characteristic, a second switch setting defining a second aroma characteristic, and a third switch setting defining a third aroma characteristic; wherein the first aroma characteristic is associated with a first power input, the second aroma characteristic is associated with a second power input, the third aroma characteristic is associated with a third power input, and The first power input, the second power input and the third power input are different from each other.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising a third switch, the third switch being a push button on / off switch.

20. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The first switch and the second switch are provided via a display screen of an electronic device that communicates with electronic components of the volatile material dispenser.

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