Electronic vaping system

Abstract

A refillable liquid tip or cartridge for a vaping device includes a capacitive sensor plate located in a tip liquid reservoir. The liquid refilling device provides the liquid sucked from the refilling bottle to the vapour device; the refilling device comprises a capacitance measuring circuit; a microcontroller uses data from the capacitance measurement circuit to determine whether a liquid level in the tip liquid reservoir is above or below a threshold level, if below, activates a liquid pump in the refill device to draw liquid from the refill vial, and if not, activates a liquid pump in the refill device to discharge liquid from the refill vial. And pumping the liquid through the vapour device and up into the tip liquid reservoir. The pumping is stopped once the liquid reaches the threshold level.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application. The national application number of the parent application is: 201980067273.9 (international application number PCT / GB2019 / 052922), the date of entry into the Chinese national phase is: April 12, 2021 (international filing date October 14, 2019), and the invention title is: Electronic vaping system. Technical Field

[0002] The field of the present invention relates to an electronic vaping system. Vaping systems provide an inhalable aerosol that may contain nicotine or other substances; they are commonly used as a substitute for combustible cigarettes. Background Art

[0003] Vaping devices come in various form factors; the simplest vaping devices use a small pod attached to a slender body that contains a battery and simple control electronics. The pod is pre-filled with liquid (commonly referred to as e-liquid) at the factory and includes a small reservoir for the liquid (typically 0.7 mL to 1.3 mL), a small wick, and a heating element wound around the wick; when the user inhales, a small pressure switch is activated, which in turn causes an electric current to heat the coil and generate the inhaled aerosol. A pod may be equivalent to the nicotine value of 10 or 20 cigarettes, and a habitual vaper may use 1 or 2 pods per day. Pods are not recyclable, and there is currently growing concern that tens of millions of these pods will be discarded in landfills.

[0004] Some designs of vaping devices are refillable and thus do not use these small pre-filled pods. Instead, the user opens a small bottle of e-liquid, unscrews their vaping device to expose an internal liquid reservoir, and drips or squeezes its contents into the reservoir; however, this can be somewhat messy and inconvenient. Thus, the overall user interaction with a conventional refillable e-cigarette (covering all aspects of how the user controls, refills, recharges, and generally interacts with the device) can be complex, and this is reflected in its design, which is typically rather technical, with various control buttons. The overall user interaction is rarely intuitive. This is very different from the simple and straightforward habit of opening a pack of conventional cigarettes and lighting up, which is appealing to smokers. The complex user interaction characterizing conventional refillable e-cigarettes lacks the simplicity or appealing habit of opening a pack of cigarettes and lighting up.

[0005] Designing a vaping system that can replicate the simplicity of a conventional cigarette is a formidable challenge, but this is key for smokers to widely adopt e-cigarettes in the mass market and is thus crucial for realizing their great public health potential.

[0006] This disclosure is based on the disclosures in the following patent publications, which are incorporated herein by reference to the maximum extent permitted: US9,247,773, US10,131,532, US10,149,497, and US10285449. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention is a vaping system, comprising: (a) an automatically refillable liquid reservoir that supplies liquid to an atomizer; (b) a liquid level sensing subsystem that directly or indirectly measures, infers, or detects the amount or level of the liquid in the liquid reservoir by measuring an electrical property of the liquid reservoir that varies according to the amount or level of the liquid in the liquid reservoir; and (c) a fluid delivery system configured to automatically deliver liquid to the liquid reservoir under the control of the liquid level sensing subsystem. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] The present invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, which illustrate the features and aspects of the AYR vaping system.

[0009] Figure 1 Shows the range of four different vaping devices in the AYR vaping system.

[0010] Figure 2 Is a perspective view of a refill and recharge cartridge for a vaping device.

[0011] Figure 3 Is a perspective view of a vaping device.

[0012] Figure 4 Is a perspective view of a refill and recharge cartridge with its extruded housing removed to show the key internal components.

[0013] Figure 5 Is a perspective view of a refill and recharge cartridge with its extruded housing removed and a refill bottle shown outside the cartridge.

[0014] Figure 6 Is a cross-sectional view of a refill and recharge cartridge.

[0015] Figure 7 Is a perspective view of the body of a vaping device with the mouthpiece or pod removed.

[0016] Figure 8 Is a cross-sectional view of the body of a vaping device.

[0017] Figure 9Is a cross-sectional view of the top end of the e-cigarette device body, showing the liquid interface, electrical interface, and power interface.

[0018] Figure 10 Is a cross-sectional view of the bottom end of the e-cigarette device body, showing the liquid filling hole and the valve.

[0019] Figure 11 Is an exploded perspective view of the mouthpiece or cartridge.

[0020] Figure 12 Is a view of the cartridge with the external mouthpiece removed, showing the internal capacitive sensor board.

[0021] Figure 13 Is a view of the cartridge with the external mouthpiece removed, showing one of the internal capacitive sensor boards and the silicone sheath that surrounds and supports the atomization element inside the silicone sheath.

[0022] Figure 14 Is a cross-sectional view of a part of the cartridge, showing Figure 11 How all the components shown in the exploded view are assembled together.

[0023] Figure 15 Is a dimensional engineering drawing of the cartridge.

[0024] Figure 16 Is a perspective view of the internal part of the cartridge called the flue, which directs the vortex of air towards the atomization unit.

[0025] Figure 17 Is a cross-sectional view of the entire cartridge, showing Figure 11 How all the components shown in the exploded view are assembled together.

[0026] Figure 18 Is a perspective view of the refill liquid bottle inserted into the refill and recharge cartridge.

[0027] Figure 19 Is a perspective view of the refill liquid bottle, which is exploded to show the authentication chip, cap, plug, and dip tube separated from the body of the bottle.

[0028] Figure 20 Is a cross-sectional view of the refill liquid bottle with the child protection cap open.

[0029] Figure 21 Is a cross-sectional view of the refill liquid bottle with the child protection cap closed.

[0030] Figure 22 Is another cross-sectional view of the refill liquid bottle with the child protection cap closed.

[0031] Figure 23 Is a perspective view of the motor and peristaltic pump.

[0032] Figure 24 is a front view of a motor and a peristaltic pump.

[0033] Figure 25 is a front view of a motor and a peristaltic pump including a liquid conduit.

[0034] Figure 26 is a schematic diagram of electrical and electronic components in a refill, recharge cartridge, and a Wi-Fi docking portion inserted therein.

[0035] Figure 27 is a schematic diagram of electrical and electronic components in a vaporizer device body (PV) and a tip or pod cartridge.

[0036] Figure 28 is a schematic diagram of electrical and electronic components in a Wi-Fi docking portion with an integrated pump and a custom ASIC.

[0037] Figure 29 is using Figure 28 is a schematic diagram of electrical and electronic components in a vaporizer device body (PV) and a tip for refill and recharge using the docking portion (also including ASIC) shown.

[0038] Figure 30 is a perspective view of a refill and recharge cartridge inserted above a Wi-Fi docking portion, and available general data connection schemes.

[0039] Figure 31 is a schematic diagram of a liquid level sensing system that can measure the liquid level in a tip and control a fluid refill pump.

[0040] Figure 32 is a schematic diagram of a capacitance measurement circuit used in the liquid level sensing system.

[0041] Figure 33 is a graph showing the measurement results of capacitance achieved by the liquid level sensing system relative to the liquid mass.

[0042] Figure 34 is a graph showing the measurement results of capacitance achieved by the liquid level sensing system relative to temperature.

[0043] Figure 35 shows various views of a soft bag design of a liquid refill bottle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] We will describe a specific implementation of the present invention, referred to as the AYR™ vaporizer system. The AYR vaporizer device includes many features that contribute to manufacturability, recyclability, usability, or performance. We divide these features into the following four main areas: A. Mechanical or structural features B. Software / Electronic Features C. Data and Connection Features D. Liquid Handling and Refill Features Preliminary Note on Related Terms: Although the main use we describe is for an e-cigarette liquid vape device that provides an inhalable nicotine aerosol or vapor, some features have a broader scope of application, including, for example, vape devices that are suitable for heating tobacco without burning it instead of using liquid. Therefore, the terms "vape", "vape device", "smoking device", "personal smoking device", and "PV" should be interpreted broadly to include e-cigarette type devices of all form factors (including closed pods, open tanks, or any other system), heat-not-burn type vape devices, hybrid devices that combine heat-not-burn with liquid atomization, and also devices that enable the inhalation not only of nicotine but also of other substances such as CBD (whether for medical or for recreational purposes).

[0045] Therefore, a "vape" or "smoking" device can be used to deliver any atomizable liquid; the terms "liquid" and "e-cigarette liquid" should be interpreted broadly to cover any atomizable liquid, gel, or other substance, including nicotine and nicotine salts of different strengths, nicotine-free liquids, liquids with CBD, liquids with medications, and liquids with any plant or synthetic flavoring or ingredient. The term "atomizer" should be interpreted broadly to cover any device that can produce an atomization, aerosol, vapor, or fine droplets for the purpose of inhalation; an atomizer can include a heating element (e.g., a wire coil wound around a wick, or a planar heating element formed on a wick, a micro-engineered steel blade, or any other system that actually generates an atomization, aerosol, vapor, or fine droplets, such as a piezoelectric cold aerosol generator). A vape device can also be a consumer device or a medically approved device.

[0046] One specific embodiment we will describe (referred to as the AYR TM system) uses a heating coil installed inside a ceramic wick, which transfers nicotine-containing e-cigarette liquid from a reservoir to the heating coil. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to this specific embodiment.

[0047] A. Mechanical or Structural Features Overview of the AYR Vape System The AYR vape system is a flexible vape platform that includes four main variants: AYR Vape TM , AYR Base TM , AYR Case TM and AYR Mod TM . All variants use the same basic software and hardware, thus bringing economic benefits in terms of development and manufacturing. We will describe each of them in turn at a higher level.Figure 1 showing each of these four variants; from left to right, we have AYR Vape (generally indicated by 1), which has the form factor of a conventional pod-type pre-filled vape device (such as the Vypee Pod TM ). This can be used as a stand-alone vape system that uses a pre-filled, single-use, disposable e-liquid pod 2 that the user cannot refill. The pod 2 slides into the top of the vape device body 10; the pod 2 is color-coded in its lower half, where different colors indicate different flavors. The pod 2 includes an authentication chip that is read by a microprocessor in the device body 10; the authentication chip prevents the use of counterfeit goods and also prevents illegal refilling (e.g., illegal liquids that have not undergone proper safety testing). The authentication chip also stores a complete record of the capsule filling date, liquid batch number, and excise or tax paid.

[0048] Since the amount of liquid contained in these pods is relatively small (e.g., 1.5 mL), for regular users, they may have to be replaced daily; since these pods are not recyclable, this has a significant impact on the environment; for users who run out of pods, this can also be frustrating, and then they are more likely to start smoking again. AYR Base (generally indicated by 6) addresses these issues; the user inserts their vape device 10 into a desktop docking station; but instead of sliding a pod 2 that has been filled with liquid at the factory into the vape device body, the user slides a special refillable pod 11 into the vape device body; thus the vape device body 10 is compatible with both pre-filled pods and refillable pods 11. The refillable pod 11 includes elements of a liquid level sensing system; a pair of sensor plates in the liquid reservoir that extend substantially upward more than halfway along the height of the liquid reservoir. The sensor plates are used to measure capacitance; the capacitance increases as the liquid level in the liquid reservoir rises. A capacitance measurement circuit (usually in the refill docking station 6) controls a liquid pump: if the capacitance is below a threshold when the vape device is placed in the docking station 6 and a liquid level measurement is being taken, the pump is activated, thereby pumping fresh liquid into the refillable pod 11 until the threshold is reached. The pre-filled pod 2 (i.e., factory pre-filled) does not include any sensor plates.

[0049] Accordingly, the docking unit 6 is used to automatically fill the refillable cartridge 11, which is specially designed to be assembled into the e-cigarette device body 10, with fresh e-cigarette liquid. The refillable cartridge 11 has the same external dimensions as the single-use non-refillable cartridge 2, but is of a single color. The e-cigarette liquid comes from a 10ml liquid refill bottle 5, which is inserted into the base of the docking unit 6 and connected to the fluid delivery system in the docking unit 6. The liquid refill bottle 5 can be fully recycled and reused and also includes anti-counterfeiting or authentication components, such that the docking unit (or cartridge or e-cigarette device) can only recognize and use authorized bottles, and a user refill bottle will cause the liquid not to be pumped from the bottle, rendering the refill meaningless. Although 10mL is the maximum capacity allowed in the EU, in other markets, much larger bottles can be legally used, which may be attractive to cost-conscious consumers. Thus, the e-cigarette device 1 is a hybrid type; it can operate like a conventional e-cigarette device with a pre-filled cartridge or as a refillable e-cigarette device.

[0050] Typically, the user places the docking unit 6 at home or in their office; the e-cigarette device 10 and the refillable cartridge 11 can be refilled with the e-cigarette liquid flavor desired by the user within 10 seconds; when the cartridge is removed from the desktop docking unit, it is effectively a freshly filled e-cigarette device without having to discard it each time the cartridge is refilled.

[0051] Some users will not wish to use the desktop liquid refill and power recharge docking unit but instead include all functions in a portable case: this is the AYRCase, typically indicated by 7. The portable case can store the e-cigarette device 10 and the refillable cartridge or tip 11 and automatically charge and refill them. It includes a large rechargeable battery; then the refill bottle 5 is inserted into the base of the case 7, where it engages with the fluid delivery system in the case.

[0052] The final AYR variant is the AYRMod, indicated by 8: this is an all-in-one e-cigarette device with a large battery of at least 2000mAh for high-power vaping; now the same refill bottle 5 is directly inserted into the e-cigarette device 8; the AYRMod e-cigarette device 8 also works with the same refillable tip 11 used in the AYR series, as well as the same pre-filled tip 2 used in the series.

[0053] Since the refillable tip 11 does not have to be discarded after its liquid is used up but can be refilled and reused multiple times (usually 10 to 20 times), it can incorporate more complex and expensive atomization technologies (such as the wickless and coil-less Distiller Plate from BAT TM or pureTech TMa stainless - steel vane atomizer), thus generating the aerosol better and more safely. More details about this vane atomizer technology can be found in WO2018211252, WO2018224823, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference to the maximum extent permitted.

[0054] The Ayr system uses a closed - loop temperature control system, which can keep the heating coil within a desired temperature range to ensure the safe and predictable generation of chemicals in the resulting aerosol. For example, to avoid the production of formaldehyde in the aerosol, which can occur if the coil temperature is too high. For a nicotine e - cigarette liquid with a PV / VG ratio of 50:50, this is 280 degrees Celsius (plus or minus 20 degrees Celsius). It has also been found that accurate temperature control of the heating element can significantly extend its service life, thus minimizing the environmental impact of these items. Accurate temperature control of the atomizing element, in combination with the use of a liquid refill bottle, has been found to synergistically and effectively minimize the environmental impact of the entire Ayr system, as the cartridge has a longer service life before replacement and the refill bottle itself is recyclable.

[0055] Now, we will study each variant more closely.

[0056] AYR Vape Overview In AYR Vape, the AYR vape device body 10 uses a pre - filled e - cigarette liquid cartridge 2. The cartridge 2 is "closed", which means that each cartridge is sealed after being authorized to be filled with e - cigarette liquid and then ultimately cannot be refilled by the user: this ensures compliance with safety regulations (such as the European Tobacco Products Directive 2014 / 40 / EU), and ensures that only the highest - quality e - cigarette liquid from an authorized source is present in the cartridge.

[0057] The different flavors of the cartridge use different colors on its lower half; this is the part that is fully inserted into the vape device body; the small cutout 3 in the vape device body 10 shows the color, so that the user can see at a glance the flavor being used. The vape device body 10 includes a USB charger port and can be recharged from a conventional USB charger docking station or platform 4.

[0058] However, the internal construction of the vaporizer or vape device body 1 is different from that of a conventional body as it has features that enable it to be used with a refillable tip or pod (not limited to a conventional pre-filled closed pod, i.e., a product filled and sold to consumers by the manufacturer and not intended to be refilled). It has a fluid intake nozzle or aperture and valve that can be connected to an external e-liquid source; in the AYR system, this is the 10ml e-liquid refill bottle 5. The fluid intake nozzle or aperture is connected via a liquid tube or path; the tube or path carries the liquid (pumped externally electrically for the AYRBase 6 and AYRCase 7 variants; pumped internally for the AYRMod variant 8) to a refillable atomizer pod 11 located at the top of the body 10; the body includes a circuit that detects the liquid level in the refillable tip or pod so that automatic refilling can start and stop correctly; it also includes a temperature regulation circuit so that the atomizer heats the liquid to the correct temperature; and it also includes the same anti-counterfeiting or authentication components as the pre-filled pod 2 so that only authorized pods 11 can be used with the system.

[0059] The vape device 10 can track a wide variety of performance and other data. It can send this data to a desktop docking station 6 or a portable refill and recharge case 7 via physical contact. The docking station 6 or case 7 can then include an integrated Wi-Fi or 3G / 4G / 5G connection to a web server that provides age verification services and data analysis, or can be coupled or docked with an accessory that provides that connection. Alternatively, the vape device 10 itself can include a short-range wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or UWB) to the user's smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, etc. or other device (the term "smartphone" is generally used to cover any type of connected device) and use the connection capabilities of that smartphone to connect to a remote server; a direct connection from the vape device 10 or 8 to the smartphone and then to the web can also be achieved (e.g., via Web Bluetooth and a smartphone browser that supports Web Bluetooth and runs on iOS and Android or UWB or any other suitable system).

[0060] The connection to the web server-based age verification system enables that server to send an unlock signal (directly or indirectly) to the vape device 10, either directly or via any intermediate device in place, so that normal vaping use is only achieved when the user meets the age requirements of the age verification system. The vape device 10 also captures a wide range of device and usage information, which may be particularly relevant in cases where the device is used as part of a clinical trial or where the user is interested in monitoring usage (e.g., as an aid to a smoking or nicotine cessation program).

[0061] AYRBase Overview As described above, the pre-filled non-refillable cartridge 2 can be replaced with a refillable cartridge or tip 11. This brings us to the AYR Base 6 variant; the same AYR Vape device body 10 can be placed on a tabletop docking base or base 6; a small (e.g., 10 ml) liquid refill bottle 5 is inserted into the docking base 6, and a small electric micropump (e.g., a peristaltic pump or a piezoelectric pump or other low-cost pump) is inserted into the docking base, which then automatically draws liquid from the refill bottle 5 and pumps it into the body of the vape device 10; and then it flows upward through the body via a liquid channel and into the refillable tip 11.

[0062] The refillable cartridge or tip 11 includes a liquid level sensing subsystem (e.g., a capacitive sensing plate within the liquid reservoir of the cartridge 11, which is gradually filled with liquid during refilling), which enables the change in the reservoir capacitance to be measured via a capacitive sensing circuit, and which in turn automatically activates the electric micropump when the liquid level in the sensed tip reservoir is below a defined amount; and automatically shuts off the electric micropump when the liquid level in the tip reservoir reaches that defined amount and thus there is sufficient liquid in the refillable tip liquid reservoir. Once refilling stops, the vape device can be used.

[0063] For the AYR Base 6, the docking portion 6 includes a power charging system for charging the rechargeable battery in the vape device body 10; a typical user can dock the vape device body 10 into the docking portion 6; the body 10 is then refilled from the liquid refill bottle 5 (which typically takes 10 seconds to complete a normal 1 mL refill), and continues to charge the battery in the vape device; the body 10, and many users like to dock the vape devices 10, 11 at night, just as they dock or connect their smartphones to a charger. In the morning, the vape devices 10, 11 are ready to use, with a fully charged battery and a liquid-filled reservoir, just like a fresh vape device.

[0064] The AYR refill bottle 5 eliminates the cost and waste of dealing with conventional single-use non-refillable pre-filled cartridges; these conventional non-refillable pre-filled cartridges are virtually impossible to recycle because they include not only a plastic outer shell, but also a filament heating coil and a ceramic wick. However, the AYR refill bottle 5 is fully recyclable. In addition, while its capacity is limited to 10 ml in the EU, in other markets these restrictions may not apply; thus bottles of 50 ml or more than 100 ml can be used, providing a very economical liquid from a fully recyclable source.

[0065] A refillable AYR pod or cartridge 11 using a conventional heating wire wound around a ceramic wick typically needs to be replaced after 30 mL of liquid has passed through it because residues accumulate over time and affect the performance of the vape. Since conventional pre-filled cartridges contain 0.7 - 1.5 mL of liquid, the refillable AYR cartridge has a usage time that is 20 to 40 times that of the non-refillable cartridges or pods in conventional systems.

[0066] Combining a large refill bottle with a very durable atomizer enables an economical and environmentally friendly vape. Thus, AYR is more environmentally friendly than conventional cartridge-based vape devices of the atomizer type (such as the Juul TM pod). A refillable AYR cartridge using more advanced atomization technologies designed for longer service life (such as micro-engineered stainless steel blades, e.g., the Distiller Plate TM system from British American Tobacco) may need to be replaced less frequently and may thus be more environmentally friendly.

[0067] AYRBase6 includes a Wi-Fi connection to the user's smartphone; the smartphone can then communicate with a remote server. A small icon appears next to the app icon on the user's smartphone screen, which looks like the app icon (but is not actually an app, i.e., something available from the Apple App Store or Android Play Store or other digital distribution centers); selecting this small icon then automatically runs a routine that loads a specific URL into the smartphone's web browser; this is the URL of the remote server that provides the age verification service and can also ingest and analyze usage data from the device.

[0068] AYRCase Overview The same vape device body 10 with a refillable cartridge 11 can be used not only with the AYRBase6 docking station but also with the AYRCase7 portable case (shown in the third part from the left in Figure 1 ). The AYRCase7 includes the same micro pump as the AYRBase6 and uses the same 10 mL liquid refill bottle. However, it is a fully portable solution that enables the user to take the AYR vape devices 10, 11 away for several days at a time, fully protected in the case 7, and available for automatic recharging with electricity and refilling with atomizable liquid whenever the vape devices 10, 11 are plugged back into the case 7. The vape devices 10, 11 are still fully compatible with pre-filled cartridges 2, and the user can thus try different flavors of pre-filled cartridges and then, after selecting one or more favorite flavors, purchase the more expensive 10 mL refill bottle 5.

[0069] AYRMod Overview The final variant is an all-in-one vape device with a large battery, typically having at least 2000 mAh, called the AYR Mod 8; larger or smaller batteries can also be used. Now, the same refill bottle 5 is directly inserted into the vape device 8; the vape device 8 is also used with the same refillable tip 11 used in the AYR series. The main difference is higher battery performance and thus attracts users who like the "mod" type vape devices and experiences with higher power supply. The AYR Mod 8 vape device is also fully compatible with the pre-filled pods 2; thus, users can try different flavors of pre-filled pods and then, after selecting one or more favorite flavors, purchase the more expensive 10 mL (or other capacity) refill bottle 5. As mentioned above, in some markets, regulations allow refilling of refill bottles larger than 10 mL, and in the market, the AYR Mod 8 can use 20 mL or larger refill bottles.

[0070] In the table below, we summarize some of the key features of AYR that are not present in conventional pod-based vape systems.

[0071]

[0072] The table below lists the types of data collected by the AYR vape system (all data is timestamped) and, subject to user consent and applicable data protection laws, this data is sent to a remote server for analysis.

[0073]

[0074] Since AYR is a data-centric fully connected system, it enables the generation of valuable feedback and rich insights. These can be real-time or near real-time, where the vape device itself is connected to a remote server (e.g., the vape device can deliver real-time data as it includes an integrated wireless module or can send data to a smartphone via Bluetooth in real-time and then the smartphone can send this data to the remote server in real-time). Alternatively, data can be downloaded from the vape device to a portable or desktop docking station, e.g., when the vape device returns to the docking station for overnight power recharge at night, and then the docking station sends the data; this can only be once or twice a day. This accurate and comprehensive data is particularly important for public health agencies and scientists who want to better understand how to use vape devices.

[0075] We summarize these in the table below:

[0076] Now, we will delve into the specific features in AYR that are not present in traditional vape systems.

[0077] Vaping device for use with pre-filled and refillable tips or cartridges In the foregoing section, we described how AYR became a hybrid vaping device: it can use conventional pre-filled closed cartridges 2 (sometimes called cartoomers); these slide, snap or fit onto the body 10 of the AYR vaping device 1; and magnetic latches can be used. However, it can use refillable cartridges 11, which are again slid, snapped or fitted onto the body 10 of the DAoAYR vaping device 1 in a conventional manner. The vaping device 10 can be inserted into a refill docking station (such as the desktop docking base 6 for AYRBase or the portable case 7 for AYRCase), and connected to a refill bottle 5 of a pump in the docking stations 6, 7, and then the liquid in the cartridge 11 of the vaping device is automatically refilled. Alternatively, the vaping device itself can include a pump and a refill container 5, as in the AYRMod. This platform approach increases component reuse across multiple devices (each device serving a different market segment), reduces engineering development time due to the commonality of core aspects across all devices, and reduces regulatory costs and effort because components related to regulatory approval are essentially shared.

[0078] We can summarize and generalize this feature as follows: A handheld vaping device configured to be used with: (a) A non-user-refillable combined atomizer and liquid reservoir (or "cartridge") that (i) is attachable to and removable from the body of the device and (ii) is supplied to the end user pre-filled with liquid; and can also be used with: (b) A user-fillable combined atomizer and liquid reservoir (or "cartridge") that (i) is attachable to and removable from the body of the device and (ii) is configured to be automatically filled multiple times with liquid using a fluid delivery system.

[0079] Some optional features: • The pre-filled cartridge and the refillable cartridge are matched in size and shape so that the same vaping device body can be used with both the pre-filled cartridge and the refillable cartridge.

[0080] • The body of the vaping device is configured to slide, dock or otherwise engage with a desktop docking base that is itself configured to refill and recharge a refillable cartridge assembled to the device.

[0081] • The body of the device is configured to slide, dock or otherwise engage with a portable docking base that is itself configured to refill and recharge a refillable cartridge assembled to the device.

[0082] • The portable docking base is a cartridge that can safely store the device and automatically refill and charge it.

[0083] • The e-cigarette device body includes a fluid path leading from a fluid inlet to a stem or nozzle or aperture, which is configured to engage with a reciprocating aperture, stem, or nozzle in the refillable cartridge.

[0084] • The e-cigarette device body includes a slot or other aperture that exposes a portion of the cartridge inserted or otherwise engaged with the body, enabling a user to distinguish the flavor of the liquid in the cartridge.

[0085] • The refillable cartridge includes a liquid level sensing subsystem.

[0086] • The e-cigarette device body includes a subsystem that measures or uses a signal from the liquid level sensing subsystem in the refillable cartridge.

[0087] • The e-cigarette device body includes a subsystem that sends a signal from the liquid level sensing subsystem in the refillable cartridge to a microcontroller that controls the fluid delivery system.

[0088] • The microcontroller is located in the e-cigarette device itself, in a desktop docking unit, or in a portable cartridge docking unit.

[0089] • The fluid delivery system is located in the e-cigarette device itself, or in a desktop or portable cartridge docking unit, and is configured to refill a refillable cartridge assembled to the device.

[0090] • When the liquid in the liquid reservoir in the refillable cartridge reaches a preset level or amount, the fluid delivery system automatically stops pumping.

[0091] • The handheld e-cigarette device includes a rechargeable battery, a fluid delivery system, a liquid level sensing subsystem, and a liquid refill container.

[0092] • The handheld e-cigarette device includes a rechargeable battery and is configured to cooperate with an external fluid delivery system and an external liquid level sensing subsystem.

[0093] • Refillable cartridges pre-filled with liquid are also provided at the point of sale.

[0094] • In the absence of liquid at the point of sale, a refillable reservoir configured to be refillable using a pump is provided.

[0095] • The pre-filled cartridge includes an authentication chip or module.

[0096] • The refillable cartridge includes an authentication chip or module.

[0097] • The e-cigarette device body includes an authentication subsystem that reads an identity chip or module and operates only when passing an authentication routine.

[0098] • The pre-filled or refillable cartridge uses an atomizer that is one of the following: a cotton wick and a wire coil; a ceramic wick and a wire coil; a ceramic wick and a planar coil; a ceramic wick and a non-planar coil; an atomizer without a wick and without a coil; a metal blade type atomizer.

[0099] In this document, we will adopt the method of generalizing the described features and some optional features that can be implemented using such features. Any such generalized feature can be combined with any one or more compatible other generalized features, and any optional feature can be combined with any one or more generalized features and any one or more other optional features.

[0100] Pre-filled and refillable tips or cartridges that can be used with different types of e-cigarette devices In the foregoing section, we also studied from the perspective of the features of the handheld e-cigarette devices 10, 8, which can be used with different types of cartridges (the pre-filled closed cartridge 2 and the automatically refillable cartridge 11). In AYR, the pre-filled cartridge and the refillable cartridge work with a portable e-cigarette device that can be refilled from a desktop docking station 6 (AYRDock) or a portable docking station 7 (such as a refill and recharge case (AYRCase)), and the e-cigarette device is an independent device 8 (AYRMod8) to which a refill bottle 5 or a container can be directly attached. Therefore, we can also view it from the perspective of the refillable cartridge that can be used with different types of e-cigarette devices. For example, an independent e-cigarette device with an integrated pump and a refillable bottle; an e-cigarette device combined with a refill docking base for the device; an e-cigarette device combined with a refill docking case for the device.

[0101] We can generalize as follows: An e-cigarette system that includes (i) a refillable tip or cartridge, and (ii) a pre-filled non-refillable tip or cartridge, which are respectively configured to be assembled in or attached to two or more of the following e-cigarette devices: (a) A portable e-cigarette device body without an integrated liquid delivery pump; (b) A portable e-cigarette device body configured to engage with a liquid refill docking part including a liquid pump; (c) A portable e-cigarette device body configured to engage with a portable cartridge including a liquid pump; and (d) A portable e-cigarette device body with an integrated liquid pump.

[0102] Some optional features: • The pre-filled cartridge and the refillable cartridge are sized and shaped to match each other so that the same e-cigarette device body can be used with both the pre-filled cartridge and the refillable cartridge.

[0103] • The portable e-cigarette device body includes a fluid path leading from a fluid inlet to a stem or nozzle or hole configured to engage with a reciprocating hole, stem, or nozzle in the refillable cartridge.

[0104] • The portable e-cigarette device body includes a slot or other hole that exposes a portion of the cartridge inserted or otherwise engaged with the device, enabling a user to distinguish the flavor of the liquid in the cartridge.

[0105] • The refillable cartridge includes a liquid level sensing subsystem.

[0106] • The portable e-cigarette device body includes a subsystem that measures or uses a signal from the liquid level sensing subsystem in the refillable cartridge.

[0107] • The portable e-cigarette device body includes a subsystem that sends a signal from the liquid level sensing subsystem in the refillable cartridge to a microcontroller that controls the fluid delivery system.

[0108] • The microcontroller is located within the e-cigarette device body itself, in a desktop docking station, or in a portable case docking station.

[0109] • The fluid delivery system is located within the e-cigarette device body itself, or in a desktop or portable case docking station, and is configured to refill a refillable cartridge assembled to the device.

[0110] • When the liquid in the liquid reservoir of the refillable cartridge reaches a preset level or amount, the fluid delivery system automatically stops pumping.

[0111] • The handheld e-cigarette device body includes a rechargeable battery, a fluid delivery system, a liquid level sensing subsystem, and a liquid refill container.

[0112] • The e-cigarette device body includes a rechargeable battery and is configured to cooperate with an external fluid delivery system and an external liquid level sensing subsystem.

[0113] • Refillable cartridges pre-filled with liquid are also provided at the point of sale.

[0114] • In the absence of liquid at the point of sale, a refillable reservoir configured to be refillable using a pump is provided.

[0115] • The pre-filled cartridge includes an authentication chip or module.

[0116] • The refillable cartridge includes an authentication chip or module.

[0117] • The e-cigarette device body includes an authentication subsystem that reads the identity chip or module and operates only when the authentication routine is passed.

[0118] AYRCase system We will now describe the AYR system in more detail. We will describe the complete AYRCase system.

[0119] Figure 2 The refill and refill cartridge of the AYRCase is shown, generally designated by 200; it stores a personal vaporizer device, i.e., a PV vaporizer device, the top of which is visible at 201, as shown in Figure 3. The cartridge 200 includes a PV ejector switch 202 which, when pushed, releases a stop which otherwise holds a spring that would be compressed when the PV is fully inserted into the cartridge; this allows the PV 201 to rise a few millimeters so that the user can easily grasp it (e.g., when holding the cartridge with one hand, the user can trigger the stop and then fully grasp the PV with his or her lips to extract it from the cartridge). The cartridge includes a display (not shown) on its top surface which shows various operating parameters (e.g., whether the cartridge is pumping liquid; the liquid level in the refill bottle; the battery level in the cartridge; the connection status). The ribbed metal extrusion 203 provides the housing; this is low cost and allows for easy implementation of different materials, colors, and finishes. The extrusion 203 is a one-piece sleeve that slides over an internal rack, allowing for quick and efficient assembly and disassembly for repair or recycling. The cartridge is activated by pressing or touching the on / off button 204.

[0120] In Figure 3 is shown the PV or e-cigarette device: it includes an e-cigarette device body 301 and a tip or cartridge 302 that slides onto the e-cigarette device body 301 and is secured by a magnetic or friction latch. As described above, this tip of the cartridge can be a pre-filled, single-use, non-recyclable tip that includes a small liquid reservoir and an integral heating atomizer. Alternatively, it can be a refillable tip. The outer dimensions of the lower part of both types of cartridges are the same, so they can both be fitted into the e-cigarette device body 303. Careful positioning of the various interfaces (power, data, and liquid) is required to ensure compatibility of the pre-filled and refillable cartridges with the device body 301. In addition to the e-cigarette device body 301 that allows for refillability, the AYR system also includes a standard e-cigarette device body (not shown) that is only compatible with pre-filled cartridges; this is a very low-cost version for users who only wish to use pre-filled cartridges.

[0121] Like the cartridge, the ribbed metal extruded piece 304 provides a housing; this is also low-cost and allows for easy implementation of different materials, colors, and finishes. The extruded piece 304 is a one-piece sleeve that slides over the internal frame, enabling quick and efficient assembly and disassembly for repair or recycling. A series of eight LED lights 303 run down one side of the device body 303; when the vape device is withdrawn from the cartridge and ready for the vaping phase, all eight LEDs will light up; a timer or other measurement system gradually extinguishes each light; for example, after 10 seconds of inhalation or 5 puffs (or other number), the first or top light goes out; after another 10 seconds of inhalation or 5 puffs, the first and second lights go out. And so on until all lights are out, approximately the amount of nicotine consumed when smoking a cigarette has been delivered or inhaled. The final light can be programmed to stay on longer than the other lights, corresponding to the typical habit of smokers trying to get the most out of their final cigarette butt. The AYR system mimics smoking habits where possible: doing so maximizes the likelihood of smokers switching from smoking to vaping.

[0122] Returning to the cartridge, we can remove the metal sleeve extrusion 400, as Figure 4 shown. We can see the PV 401 in its storage position, as well as the 10 mL refillable e-liquid bottle 402, the main battery 403, and the electric peristaltic pump 404. Figure 5 The cartridge 501 is shown, where the refill bottle 502 is outside the cartridge 501; the bottle 502 includes a child-resistant cap 503; this cap 503 is removed during normal use before inserting the bottle 502 into the cartridge 501.

[0123] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view through the cartridge where the liquid refill bottle 601 is in place, but the PV has been removed, showing the channel 602 for receiving the PV. The key elements in the cartridge are the main battery 603, which is used to recharge the smaller battery in the PV; the motor 604 that drives the peristaltic pump 605, which automatically draws liquid from the refill bottle 601 along a food-grade pipe (not shown) that resists e-liquid leaching. The pipe continues to a liquid supply nozzle and valve 606 in the cartridge; when the PV is pressed down against the nozzle, the valve opens, allowing the liquid to be pumped to the PV device body and up to the mouthpiece.

[0124] Figure 7Shows the PV; shows the removal of the tip or cartridge 701 from the body 702 of the PV; it is fixed in place in the PV by a small magnet in the PV. The tip or cartridge 701 can be pre-filled with liquid at a liquid filling factory and cannot be refilled at all. Alternatively, a cartridge or other form of docking can be used for refilling. The external dimensions and shape are the same for both variants to achieve complete compatibility. The pre-filled cartridge includes colored ribs 703; cartridges with different liquid flavors use different colors. The refillable cartridge has another color or pattern. The ribs 703 slide into slots 704 in the cartridge; the ribs have a dual function: first, to ensure that the cartridge 701 slides into the device body 702 in the correct orientation (asymmetric physical and electrical interfaces), and second, to give the type or flavor of the cartridge being used.

[0125] Figure 8 Shows a cross-section of a refillable variant of the PV. It includes a liquid filling hole and a valve 801, a liquid path 802 from the liquid filling hole and valve 801 to a liquid nozzle 803 that matches a hole in the base of the refillable tip 804. The liquid path 802 is formed by a molded channel in a plastic frame to which the main components of the PV (e.g., a small rechargeable battery, a main circuit board) are fixed, and a metal extruded outer sleeve 805 can slide over it to form a finished vape device. Thus, the frame molding forms three sides of the liquid transfer channel 802; it is covered with an ultrasonically welded plastic or PET film; this is a cheap and easy-to-manufacture way to create a liquid path in the PV and does not require a separate small-diameter liquid tube.

[0126] As Figure 9As shown, the PV has a liquid filling nozzle 901 that mates with a liquid filling hole in the base of the refillable cartridge. The PV includes a pressure drop signal nozzle 902 that is connected to a pressure sensor in the PV; when the user inhales, negative pressure is communicated to the pressure sensor via the pressure drop signal nozzle 902. This pressure drop path is completely separate from any air flow path that may include e-liquid or condensate droplets, minimizing the risk of damage to the pressure sensor by nicotine liquid or other chemicals that may impair the normal operation of the pressure sensor. This separation is particularly important in the case of using sensitive pressure measuring devices such as solid-state MEMS-type pressure sensors, as these devices need to be protected from e-liquid contamination and benefit from having a dedicated and unique pressure path. These types of sensors are particularly useful when the device needs to accurately track detailed metrics regarding inhalation - i.e., not just simply count each inhalation, but also accurately measure and record the intensity, depth, volume, duration, and air velocity profile of each inhalation over time (and also operate on exhalation in the case where the sensor is used to be able to track exhalation data, in the form of a spirometer - the data can be particularly valuable in cases where the device is used in clinical trials of smokers to track improvements in lung function, such as when trial participants reduce or stop smoking).

[0127] Power to the heating coil is achieved via electrical contacts, one of which is shown as 904.

[0128] The PV also includes four spring pin connectors 903 that provide electrical and signal contacts to a capacitive sensor circuit. The sensor circuit is located in the external docking portion of the AYR Dock and AYR Case variants; it is located within the vape device itself in the AYR Mod variant. The refillable cartridge includes a pair of capacitive plates in the liquid reservoir in the cartridge, and the four spring pins provide signals between the capacitive plates and the capacitive sensing circuit, which is a dedicated chip or an ASIC incorporating the required circuitry.

[0129] Figure 10 The base of the PV is shown; when the PV is pushed down against the filling nozzle in this case, the spring-mounted filling valve 101 is displaced, and an unobstructed liquid path is provided from the filling hole 102 in the PV base, up through the liquid channel 103, leading to the tip filling nozzle.

[0130] Figure 11It is an exploded view of the suction tip. The key components are the bottom cover 110, four spring pin contacts 111, a liquid filling hole with a one-way valve 112 (the one-way valve opens only when the pump actively pumps liquid into the suction tip liquid reservoir under pressure), a liquid rod 113 located above the valve 112, and a silicone atomizer base 114 where the atomization unit is located. The atomization unit contains a ceramic wick 115 around which a stainless-steel heating coil wire 116 is wound, but any other atomization system is also possible. A power cord 117 supplies power to the heating coil wire 116.

[0131] The silicone inner cylinder located inside the generally cylindrical silicone outer sheath 119 is formed by a lower section called the flue 118 and an upper section 120 that supports the ceramic wick 115. The silicone flue 118 is located on the atomizer base 114. Air flows upward through the central hole of the flue 118 and above the wick 115 and the coil 116, thus forming an aerosol including liquid droplets. The inner surface of the mouthpiece 121 and the outer surface of the silicone outer sheath 119 form a liquid reservoir. A pair of channels are formed between the silicone outer sheath 119 and the silicone inner parts 118, 120 assembled inside the outer sheath 119; these channels are liquid channels for supplying liquid from the liquid reservoir and upward to the wick 115. A pair of stainless-steel capacitive sensing plates 122 and 123 are located inside the liquid reservoir. Subsequent figures will be expanded based on the above description.

[0132] Figure 12 Shows the fully reassembled suction tip, but only the mouthpiece 121 is lifted. A pair of stainless-steel capacitive sensing plates 122 and 123 are shown; these capacitive sensing plates Figure 11 completely enclose the silicone outer sheath 119 shown previously, which in turn completely encloses the upper and lower sections of the inner silicone cylinder 118, 120. The capacitive plates 122 and 123 have flat sides and a curved partially cylindrical central section 124; and the partially cylindrical central section 124 is located above the cylindrical silicone outer sheath 119. When the mouthpiece 121 is assembled to the atomizer base 114, the area outside the stainless-steel capacitive sensing plates 122 and 123 and the plastic mouthpiece 121 is the liquid reservoir and is therefore usually filled with liquid; a cover 121 slides over the unit and double O-rings prevent liquid leakage.

[0133] During use, it is typical for the liquid level sensing system to determine whether the liquid level in the reservoir is above or below a threshold, which is usually ½ full or 2 / 3 full; the measurement routine occurs (as measured by an accelerometer chip in the cartridge) when the PV is placed in the cartridge and the cartridge is in a vertical orientation - by restricting filling to occur only when the device is vertical, this greatly reduces the challenge of accurately sensing the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir. If the liquid level is below the threshold, the pump is activated and liquid is continuously pumped into the tip reservoir until the threshold is reached.

[0134] More details of the liquid level sensing system are given in Part D.

[0135] Figure 13 This arrangement is shown where one of the stainless - steel capacitive sensing plates has been removed, leaving only the rear sensor plate 122; it shows the generally cylindrical silicone outer sheath 119 that forms the inner surface of the liquid reservoir. The silicone outer sheath 119 shows two ridges 130 extending upward on each side; inside the sheath 119 are the lower and upper generally cylindrical silicone inner parts 118, 120; these parts 118, 120 fit tightly inside the silicone outer sheath 119, away from the channels behind each ridge: each channel is a liquid path 131 from the reservoir into the wick; the channels are formed by the gap between the inner surface of the silicone outer sheath 119 and the outer surfaces of the silicone parts 118, 120 defined by the ridges 130. The gap (not shown) between the opposing capacitive sensing plates 122 and 123 is evident; capacitive measurement requires a gap. To perform capacitive measurements accurately and consistently, the capacitive plates need to be separated accurately and consistently; small ribs or features on the silicone outer sheath 119 and the atomizer base 132 make this possible.

[0136] Figure 14 This internal structure is shown more clearly in a perspective cross - sectional view of the fully assembled cartridge; the silicone outer sheath 119 includes ridges that define a pair of internal channels 131 through which liquid can pass; the cross - section is a slice through these channels 131. The silicone inner parts located inside the silicone outer sheath 119 are formed by a lower section called the flue 118 and an upper part 120 that supports the ceramic wick 115. Air passes upward through this flue 118 and through a pair of opposing angled holes 140 into the atomization chamber surrounding the ceramic wick 115 and the heating coil 116.

[0137] As described above, the ceramic wick 115 is installed in the upper silicone inner cylinder 120. The liquid channel 131 supplies liquid to the ceramic wick. In a conventional cartridge, the atomizing coil is placed at the base of the cartridge; for a refillable system, this is undesirable because a refillable system requires a means for expelling air from the reservoir when the reservoir is filled by a pump; this means some form of air valve or passage that fluidly connects to the outside atmosphere for pressure equalization. In Figure 14 this is an air vent 142 sealed by a breathable but liquid-impermeable barrier 143. However, the presence of the air vent 142 or passage means that if the wick is placed at the base, the normal static atmospheric pressure will tend to cause liquid to leak outwards from the reservoir via the wick and down through the base of the cartridge. In a conventional cartridge, this is much more likely to occur because there is no direct air vent to the liquid reservoir; when the liquid runs out, a partial vacuum is formed, which tends to limit liquid leakage. In the AYR system, we place the atomizing element (e.g., the wick 118 and coil 116, or any other atomizing device is possible) at least midway vertically in the liquid reservoir. It is closer to the opening or outlet of the mouthpiece, thus providing hotter vapor. It is typically 10 - 15 mm from the end of the mouthpiece. It is about 20 - 25 mm up from the base of the cartridge and about 10 - 15 mm up from the base of the liquid reservoir. Figure 15 is an engineering drawing of a specific implementation, providing an accurate drawing.

[0138] The liquid channel 131 leads to the bottom of the liquid reservoir at its base 141 and thus liquid easily enters the channel 131; when the user inhales, the air pressure in the channel 131 decreases causing the liquid in the channel 131 to rise and supply the ceramic wick 115, just as liquid can be sucked up a straw when being drawn. Once the user stops inhaling, the pressure drops and the liquid descends back down the channel 131; this prevents the liquid from continuously contacting the wick 115, which could otherwise result in liquid leakage through the wick 115 and out of the cartridge. The liquid is pumped into the reservoir through the valve 112 and the liquid rod 113, which leads directly to the base of the liquid reservoir.

[0139] Figure 16The flue 118 is shown in more detail and includes holes 140 and 141. One hole 140 directs air at approximately 45 degrees counterclockwise relative to the vertical position (as viewed from one position); the other hole 141 directs air at 45 degrees clockwise relative to the vertical position (as viewed from the same position). This causes the air to form a twisting vortex or other turbulence around the atomizing coil, which results in better vapor production (e.g., higher and more consistent aerosol production) and a more uniform temperature distribution along the heating element, which minimizes the risk of hot spots and thus provides a more predictable aerosol composition and reduces the risk of contamination that may be caused by local hot spots on the heating element.

[0140] Figure 16 Another cross-section showing the entire assembled refillable tip is shown.

[0141] Now, we will move on to the refill bottle, as Figure 18 shown. Its liquid capacity is typically 10 mL, but this capacity was chosen to comply with EU regulations; in other markets, significantly larger refill bottles are possible, thus providing greater value to consumers. The bottle has a body 170, which is an ultra-low-cost blow-molded plastic bottle. A child-resistant threaded cap 171 is threadedly attached to a short neck. There are molded features 172 on the bottle shoulder, which are designed for a small memory or chip that snaps or slides into place.

[0142] Figure 19 is an exploded view; the bottle 170 includes a child-resistant cap 171 that is screwed onto a very short threaded neck; unlike conventional e-cigarette liquid filling bottles, there is no pour spout or tapered protrusion from which the user can pour the liquid; in the AYR system, the liquid is only automatically pumped out and the user never manually pours the liquid out of the bottle. The bottle includes an encrypted chip or security authentication chip that is press-fitted or slid into a small recess 172 in the top shoulder of the cap; the recess may have a dovetail shape to allow for easy insertion and extraction of the chip when cleaning the bottle for reuse or recycling. The chip can be read and written using a 1-wire protocol, where the bottle 170 is inserted into a physical contact in a device (e.g., a cartridge or a desktop docking station or a mod-type vaping device).

[0143] Alternatively, wireless reading and writing of the chip can be implemented (e.g., using RFID). Wireless data reading from the chip is very useful for quickly reading bottles in a bottle package - for example, by regulatory authorities or institutions that wish to check the origin of the bottle and its contents; in factories, distributors, retail stores, or end-users, agents can use wireless reading devices to scan all packaged bottles, download all data (e.g., unique number, batch number, liquid type) and write this data into a central database to accurately record what bottles are where; counterfeit goods can be easily identified because they either do not have an RFID data tag or the data on the tag will be a duplicate of an existing tag. The tag can also have a tax or customs stamp or proof of duty paid written on it; then, agents can quickly scan the bottle to verify if the correct duty has been paid. The same authentication chip can also be used for cartridges.

[0144] More specifically, the authentication chip stores a complete record of the bottle filling date, the liquid batch number for full traceability, and a record of excise tax or duty payment. The excise tax payment record can be a unique sequence generated by an excise tax payment system, bound to the liquid batch number, and written into the authentication chip when the cartridge or bottle is filled with liquid at the filling factory. The unique sequence is purchased by the device supplier (or cartridge or capsule supplier) from the relevant government body responsible for collecting excise tax for the market where the cartridges or bottles will be sold. The excise tax number can be hashed (e.g., with the liquid batch number) or otherwise encrypted to make forgery difficult. If there is no valid, genuine, decrypted excise tax record in the cartridge or refill bottle, the vaping device or docking station can be set to inoperable - i.e., the vaping device or docking station implements a check routine to decrypt and authenticate the excise tax record; it can also store a record of earlier excise tax records and only operate when the excise tax record is unique and not in that record. The authentication can be entirely located within the vaping device or docking station - i.e., no communication with an external server is required. If the vaping device or docking station is connected to the Internet, it also uses a remote authentication server and shares the excise tax data it downloads from the cartridge or refill bottle, so there is a central record of the use of consumables for which excise tax has been paid, which is available for government agencies to review and audit. The authentication chip can be used to capture excise tax payments on other vaping consumables: for example, on the packaging of small tobacco sticks used in heat-not-burn devices, so that there is a single unified global system to capture excise tax on products intended to replace cigarettes. As government tax revenues from cigarettes decline, it will become increasingly important to provide a cost-effective way to impose or collect taxes on liquid bottles, as well as to test the duty or tax compliance of bottles, and thus it is necessary to start taxing vaping devices and their related consumables (such as liquid bottles or atomizers) fiscally.

[0145] The bottle includes a dip tube connected to an element we call a "stopper" or other form of seal or stopper 182; the stopper 182 is located in the only opening of the bottle 170, which is closed by a child-resistant screw cap 171.

[0146] Figure 20 is a cross-section through the bottle with the cap or lid screwed on. Figure 21 and Figure 22 It is a cross-sectional view of the bottle with the lid or cover removed, as if the bottle is positioned in an AYRCase, AYRDock or AYRMod device. The dovetail shape of the encryption chip recess 172 is clearly visible, as is the structure of the plug.

[0147] The stopper 182 is cylindrical and is located in the short neck of the bottle; it comprises an outer ring section 210 through which air can enter and flow out of the interior 212 of the bottle to achieve pressure equalization; the underside of the ring 210 is sealed with a membrane 211 made of a porous gas-permeable but liquid-impermeable material (such as PTFE). During normal operation, when liquid is pumped out of the bottle via the dip tube 181, air needs to enter the interior 212 of the bottle, because otherwise a partial vacuum would be formed, making it impossible to pump liquid from the bottle.

[0148] During filling of the bottle with liquid at manufacturing, conventional liquid filling equipment, such as is commonly used for high-speed filling of e-liquid bottles, can be used to pour the liquid through the neck of the bottle; the plug 182 is not in place. After filling, the plug 182 is pushed into the bottle and then the child-resistant cap 171 is tightened. This allows for fast and efficient bottle filling with minimal modification to existing e-liquid filling production lines.

[0149] When the bottle is in place in the box, dock or vape device, the nozzle in the box or dock fits tightly in the central hole 213 of the plug 182 and over the entrance to the dip tube 181; the nozzle is connected to a pump in the box, dock or device so that when the pump is activated, liquid will be drawn from the dip tube 181, through the central hole and then into the nozzle of the device.

[0150] Figure 23 A perspective view of a motor 220 for driving a peristaltic rotor is shown; a liquid conduit (not shown) connected to a nozzle that in turn engages a liquid refill bottle passes through a portion of the rotor; as the rotor rotates, it uses peristaltic motion to move liquid through the tube from the bottle into the liquid reservoir of the vape device refillable pod or tip. The rotating shaft 222 of the motor has a ring 223 with an eccentric shape mounted thereon; the outer surface of the eccentric ring 223 is a low friction surface that contacts the low friction surface of an outer circular ring 224. Figure 24 is the front view of the system; Figure 25It includes a peristaltic tube. When the motor shaft 222 and the eccentric ring 223 rotate, the outer ring 224 moves laterally but does not rotate; a food-grade peristaltic tube (which has been tested to ensure that it is minimally affected by nicotine or e-cigarette liquid) runs around a part of the outer circular ring 224 and moves laterally to press in the tube; when the most eccentric part of the inner ring rotates, the surface of the circular ring above the most eccentric part will be pushed radially outwards; this part rotates, and as it does so, it causes peristaltic compression of the tube, thereby forcing the liquid to move along the tube. This movement is fully reversible in order to extract the liquid from the vaping device and the refillable cartridge and then pump it back into the refill bottle; this is useful when changing flavors as it minimizes flavor mixing.

[0151] We can summarize some of the main functions as follows: High coil For a fillable user-replaceable tip or cartridge or atomizer, we have found that the conventional placement of the atomization unit at or near the base of the tip is problematic because during liquid filling, the tip must vent to the atmosphere to achieve pressure equilibrium and consume the liquid in a normal vape; since the atomization unit typically includes a wick, the liquid is supplied to the wick from the liquid reservoir in the tip by gravity or capillary action, and the atmospheric pressure on the liquid surface in the liquid reservoir and the hydrostatic pressure of the liquid are sufficient to overcome any surface tension effects that would otherwise limit the flow of liquid through the wick into the atomization chamber and from there into the base or inhalation chamber of the tip, where the liquid could easily leak. We have found that the solution is to move the coil upwards from the base to a sufficient vertical height in the tip such that leakage through the wick caused by the atmospheric pressure on the liquid and the hydrostatic pressure of the liquid in the liquid reservoir does not occur. For example, if the liquid reservoir is typically filled to a height of x cm above the base of the tip, then we position the wick supplying the atomization unit such that the vertical distance between the wick position and the normal maximum fill level of the reservoir is minimized; for example, we can also position the wick itself at a position of about x cm from the base. Different wicking behaviors, wick geometries, and atomizer geometries (whether wick-including or wickless) will determine the optimal position.

[0152] We can summarize as follows: An e-cigarette device, the e-cigarette device comprising an automatically refillable liquid reservoir, the liquid reservoir including a pressure equalization passage leading to the external atmosphere; and an atomization unit configured to draw liquid from the reservoir; wherein when the vertically oriented reservoir contains the maximum amount of liquid, the atomization unit is positioned relative to the surface of the liquid in the reservoir such that the pressure applied on and / or by the liquid is not sufficient to cause liquid to flow through the atomization unit and cause liquid leakage.

[0153] Some optional features: • The pressure applied to the liquid and the pressure exerted by the liquid are due to the atmospheric pressure acting on the liquid surface and the hydrostatic pressure of the liquid weight.

[0154] • When the device is in a vertical orientation, when the reservoir contains the maximum amount of liquid, the atomization unit is at least partially placed at or above the surface of the liquid in the reservoir.

[0155] • The atomization unit includes a liquid path that allows the liquid in the liquid reservoir to leak out of the surface of the cartridge containing the atomization unit and the liquid reservoir, and the atomization unit is placed in a vertical position relative to the liquid reservoir such that the pressure applied to the liquid and / or exerted by the liquid at any point in the liquid path is not sufficient to cause the liquid to flow through the liquid path and cause liquid leakage.

[0156] • When the reservoir contains the maximum amount of liquid, when the device is in a vertical orientation, the liquid path in or through the atomization unit is substantially arranged at or above the surface of the liquid in the reservoir such that the pressure applied to the liquid and / or exerted by the liquid at any point in the liquid path is not sufficient to cause the liquid to flow through the liquid path and cause liquid leakage.

[0157] • When the reservoir contains the maximum amount of liquid, when the device is in a vertical orientation, the liquid path in or through the atomization unit is arranged close enough to the surface of the liquid in the reservoir such that the pressure applied to the liquid and / or exerted by the liquid is not sufficient to cause the liquid to flow through the liquid path and cause liquid leakage.

[0158] • When the reservoir contains the maximum amount of liquid, the atomization unit is at least partially placed below the surface of the liquid in the reservoir, but when the reservoir contains the maximum liquid, when the device is in a vertical orientation, at least 90% of the vertical height of the liquid in the reservoir remains so.

[0159] • When the reservoir contains the maximum amount of liquid, the atomization unit is at least partially placed below the surface of the liquid in the reservoir, but when the reservoir contains the maximum liquid, when the device is in a vertical orientation, at least 75% of the vertical height of the liquid in the reservoir remains so.

[0160] • The atomization unit includes a wick, and when the device is in a vertical orientation, when the reservoir contains the maximum liquid, the wick is at least partially placed at or above the surface of the liquid in the reservoir.

[0161] • The atomization unit includes a wick, and when the device is in a vertical orientation, when the reservoir contains the maximum amount of liquid, the lowest part of the wick is placed at or above the surface of the liquid in the reservoir.

[0162] • The liquid reservoir and the atomization unit are formed in the form of a user-replaceable tip or cartridge that slides into or otherwise engages with the main body of the vaping device.

[0163] We can also use the base of the liquid reservoir as a reference point and view this from a structural rather than a functional perspective: A vaping device comprising an automatically refillable liquid reservoir having a maximum vertical liquid height H measured from the base of the reservoir; and an atomization unit configured to draw liquid from the reservoir; wherein when the device is placed vertically, the atomization unit is placed substantially above or at a position above the base of the reservoir, at least 1 / 4H from the base of the reservoir.

[0164] Some optional features: • The atomization unit is placed at a position at least 1 / 3H above the base.

[0165] • The atomization unit is placed at a position at least 1 / 2H above the base.

[0166] • The liquid reservoir and the atomization unit are formed in the form of a user-replaceable tip or cartridge that slides into or otherwise engages with the main body of the vaping device.

[0167] An atomizer positioned near the mouthpiece One result of moving the atomization device from its conventional position at the base of the cartridge or tip is that it is now closer to the mouthpiece. This in turn can result in hotter vapor, which is generally more satisfactory for smokers who wish to use the vaping device to quit smoking.

[0168] We can summarize as follows: A vaping device comprising an automatically refillable liquid reservoir and an atomization unit configured to draw liquid from the reservoir and provide an aerosol to the mouthpiece; and wherein the midpoint or center of the atomization unit is located at a position less than 20 mm from the end of the mouthpiece, and preferably at a position between 10 mm and 15 mm from the end of the mouthpiece.

[0169] Siphon When moving the atomization device up from the base of the tip, one challenge faced by AYR engineers is how to supply liquid to the atomization unit; for a conventional tip design, the atmospheric pressure or hydrostatic pressure / gravity at the liquid surface combined with the capillary action of the wick is usually sufficient because the wick and the atomization unit are typically located at the base of the cartridge or atomizer. In AYR, the liquid supply path must prevent too much liquid from entering the atomization unit, which would cause leakage, and also prevent an insufficient amount of liquid from moving into the atomization unit, as this would result in a poor vaping experience.

[0170] The solution is to use one or more narrow liquid supply channels that run from the base of the liquid reservoir up to the wick; these are sufficiently restricted in cross-section such that normal inhalation behavior at the mouthpiece of the device (which creates a negative pressure in the atomization chamber, negative with respect to the atmosphere), and thus the negative pressure in the wick leading to the atomization chamber, is sufficient to cause the liquid in the supply channels to rise and contact and enter the wick, and thus enter the atomization chamber, even when the liquid level in the liquid reservoir is low or the reservoir is held horizontally. In a broad sense, we can call this a siphon, meaning any system where liquid flows through a tube. (In a narrow sense, a siphon can be considered a combination where atmospheric pressure pushes the liquid up the tube, and we have this in the AYR system, and then gravity pulls it down below the liquid level in the source, which we don't have). In practice, the operation is more similar to sucking up liquid through a straw.

[0171] We can summarize as follows: An aerosol generating device comprising an automatically refillable liquid reservoir and an atomization unit configured to draw liquid from the liquid reservoir and provide an aerosol to a mouthpiece, and wherein the liquid reservoir is connected to the bottom of one or more liquid channels and the atomization unit is connected to the top of the channel or each channel, each channel being configured such that when the user sucks on the mouthpiece, a reduction in air pressure causes the liquid to flow upward along the channel or each channel and into the atomization unit.

[0172] Some optional features: • When the user stops inhaling, the liquid will stop flowing upward in the channel or each channel.

[0173] • Each channel is connected to the liquid reservoir at the base of the liquid reservoir.

[0174] • The length or cross-sectional area of each channel is selected to provide sufficient liquid delivery into the atomization unit while minimizing liquid leakage from the mouthpiece.

[0175] • The liquid reservoir includes an air-permeable, liquid-impermeable liquid diaphragm that vents to the external atmosphere.

[0176] • The liquid reservoir, atomization unit, mouthpiece, and channels are formed in the form of a user-replaceable cartridge or pod that slides into or otherwise engages with the body of the vaping device.

[0177] • The atomization unit includes a ceramic core wicking element that is horizontally placed when the cartridge is upright.

[0178] • Each channel is formed as a groove in a generally cylindrical member that is press-fit or friction-fit within a larger generally cylindrical member.

[0179] • When the vertically oriented reservoir contains the maximum amount of liquid, the atomization unit is placed in a vertical position relative to the liquid surface in the reservoir such that the air pressure acting on the liquid surface is not sufficient to cause the liquid to flow through the atomization unit and cause liquid leakage.

[0180] • When the device is placed vertically, the atomization unit is placed substantially above the base of the reservoir, at a position at least 1 / 4H upward from the base of the reservoir.

[0181] • The liquid reservoir, atomization unit, mouthpiece, and passage are formed in the form of a refillable tip or cartridge that is user-replaceable and slides into or otherwise engages with the e-cigarette body.

[0182] Turbulence Another challenge faced by AYR engineers when moving the atomization unit upward from the base of the tip is that the flow path of the air moving upward to the atomization unit is much longer than that of a conventional atomizer cartridge; in a conventional cartridge, the atomization unit is typically placed at the base of the cartridge and is thus very close to the starting point of the air inlet path. The problem with extending the length of the air flow path is that it increases the likelihood and degree of laminar air flow; laminar air flow above the atomization unit is undesirable because it results in limited contact between areas on the heating surface and the moving air; the moving air is not evenly distributed over the heating surface. This can lead to hot spots on the heating surface that are higher than desired; even in highly localized areas, excessive temperature can cause the formation of undesirable by-products or contaminants in the vapor. In the AYR atomization unit, we use a specific mechanism to introduce turbulence; the air flowing upward along the "flue" to the atomization unit impinges on one or more nozzles or holes at the top of the flue, and these nozzles or holes are configured to direct the laminar air into a turbulent pattern or vortex.

[0183] We can summarize as follows: An aerosol generator comprising an atomizer and an air supply nozzle system configured to direct air inhaled through the aerosol generator onto the atomizer, wherein the air supply nozzle system includes one or more nozzles or holes configured to direct air at an angle or orientation relative to the vertical direction so as to create a substantially non-laminar, turbulent, distorted, or vortical air flow over the atomizer.

[0184] Some optional features: • Each nozzle or hole is configured such that air exits the nozzle or hole at an angle of at least 5 degrees relative to the vertical axis passing through the atomizer.

[0185] • Each nozzle or hole is configured such that air exits the nozzle or hole at an angle of at least 10 degrees relative to the vertical axis passing through the atomizer.

[0186] • Each nozzle or orifice is configured such that air exits the nozzle or orifice at an angle of at least 20 degrees with respect to the vertical axis passing through the atomizer.

[0187] • Each nozzle or orifice is configured such that air exits the nozzle or orifice at an angle of at least 30 degrees with respect to the vertical axis passing through the atomizer.

[0188] • Each nozzle or orifice is configured such that air exits the nozzle or orifice at an angle of at least 40 degrees with respect to the vertical axis passing through the atomizer.

[0189] • Each nozzle or orifice is configured such that air exits the nozzle or orifice at an angle of at least 50 degrees with respect to the vertical axis passing through the atomizer.

[0190] • There is at least one pair of nozzles or orifices, each nozzle being laterally displaced from a line defining the middle of the atomizer and configured to direct air in a direction opposite to that of the other nozzle such that the air forms a vortex flowing around the atomizer.

[0191] • The air supply nozzle system is located above an air flue or chimney that supplies air to the air supply nozzle system in a non-turbulent or substantially laminar manner.

[0192] • The atomizer is placed in an air flue that provides significant laminar flow characteristics to the air.

[0193] • The atomizer and the nozzle or orifice are formed in a refillable or pre-filled tip or cartridge that is user-replaceable and slides or engages with the atomizer device body.

[0194] PET-covered channel Complex vape devices similar to AYR can be quite expensive and difficult to manufacture; cost reduction is an ever-present requirement. The normal way to transfer liquid from an inlet hole connected to a pump (the pump is outside the vape device in the AYRBase and AYRCase variants and inside the vape device in the AYRMod variant) up through the vape device is through a dedicated tube. However, the available space for the tube is very limited, so the tube has to be very narrow and have high tolerances; and the bends in the tube are difficult to manufacture, thus imposing design constraints. In the AYR vape device body, we use a plastic molding that forms an internal rack to which the battery, circuit board, and other major components are fixed; we form a narrow channel in this molding. This channel forms three sides of the liquid passage path up through the vape device. A light-transmitting plastic film is ultrasonically welded in a manner used in different, non-similar situations to form a cover for the channel, i.e., in an inkjet printer cartridge where the distance for transferring liquid ink from an ink reservoir to an inkjet print head is very short.

[0195] The channel need not be straight but can be twisted; this is easily done in a plastic moulding. This gives us a very low-cost fluid delivery path, reducing the cost of the product and being reliable.

[0196] We can summarise as follows: An aerosol-generating device comprising: (i) a liquid reservoir for supplying liquid to an atomiser; (ii) a port, hole or nozzle configured to enable the device to be filled with atomisable liquid from a liquid source; and (iii) a liquid path connecting the liquid reservoir to the port, hole or nozzle; and wherein the liquid path includes a channel covered with a plastic film.

[0197] Some optional features: • The sides of the channel are formed by a frame or other parts integral with the e-cigarette device body.

[0198] • The sides of the channel are formed by a plastic moulded frame of the e-cigarette device.

[0199] • The film is PET.

[0200] • The film is ultrasonically welded to the sides of the channel.

[0201] • The channel includes one or more changes of direction.

[0202] Cartridge or bottle features Quick-refill bottle In the foregoing section, we described how the AYR design reduces the cost of goods of an aerosol-generating device. There is also the same requirement for reducing the cost of goods of a refill liquid bottle; for the bottle, the imperative is greater because it is the main consumable in the AYR system and a typical consumer will buy twenty or more refill bottles for each e-cigarette device.

[0203] For a refill bottle, a key requirement is to ensure that it can be filled quickly and efficiently with liquid at a liquid filling plant; and to do this with a cheap and easy-to-manufacture structure that is easy to recycle. In the case of AYR, the refill bottle, which typically has a capacity of 10 mL, is a very low-cost blow-molded bottle with a short threaded neck; the mouthpiece allows a nozzle connected to an automatic liquid filling system to be inserted into the bottle or is used to pour liquid into the bottle; no expensive modifications to an industry-standard liquid filling plant are required. Once filled, a structure we call a "plug" is inserted into the neck; the plug is specifically configured to engage with a liquid refill system in an e-cigarette device or docking station or cartridge. More specifically, the plug is a single molded piece that supports two different functions; it has a central hole that receives an e-liquid nozzle connected to a liquid pump; the central hole is connected to an immersion tube that extends down to the base of the bottle and ensures that all the liquid in the bottle can be pumped out. Surrounding the central hole in the plug is an annular hole through which air can flow into and out of the bottle, thus allowing the pressure to quickly equalize to atmospheric pressure; a liquid-impermeable but air-permeable barrier seals one face of the annular air passage.

[0204] We can summarize as follows: A liquid refill bottle having a mouthpiece configured to (i) allow insertion or otherwise use of a nozzle connected to an automatic liquid filling system when filling the bottle at a filling plant to pour liquid into the bottle through the mouthpiece, and (ii) receive a plug or seal configured to engage both with a fluid delivery system and to allow equalization of the air pressure within the bottle.

[0205] Some optional features: • The plug is made of a single molded piece.

[0206] • The plug includes a first hole and a second hole, the first hole being configured to receive a liquid filling nozzle from a refill system to pump liquid out of the bottle, the second hole being configured such that air can flow into and out of the bottle during filling or emptying of the bottle due to equalization of the air pressure within the bottle.

[0207] • The first hole is an internal channel or opening.

[0208] • The nozzle is frictionally fitted into the first hole.

[0209] • The second hole is an external channel.

[0210] • The external channel is arranged concentrically around the internal channel.

[0211] • The second hole includes a vent hole that is air-permeable but e-liquid-impermeable.

[0212] • The first hole is connected to an immersion tube.

[0213] • The plug includes a first nozzle and a second nozzle or aperture, the first nozzle being configured to engage with a liquid filling aperture that is part of a refilling system to draw liquid from the bottle, and the second nozzle or aperture being configured such that air can flow into and out of the bottle during filling or emptying of the bottle due to equalization of air pressure within the bottle.

[0214] • The first nozzle is an internal nozzle.

[0215] • The first nozzle is frictionally engaged to engage with a liquid filling aperture that is part of a refilling system.

[0216] • The second nozzle or aperture is disposed around the internal nozzle.

[0217] • The second nozzle or aperture is disposed concentrically around the internal nozzle.

[0218] • The second nozzle or aperture includes a vent hole that is permeable to air but impermeable to e - cigarette liquid.

[0219] • During filling with e - cigarette liquid at the time of manufacture, the liquid is poured or pumped into the bottle through the bottle mouth, then the plug is assembled to the bottle, and then the child - resistant cap is assembled to the bottle.

[0220] • The bottle is a blow - molded plastic bottle.

[0221] • The bottle is not user - refillable.

[0222] • The bottle is substantially rigid.

[0223] • The bottle includes a neck that defines a mouthpiece, and the neck is a threaded neck configured for screwing on a child - resistant cap.

[0224] Dual - purpose liquid filling bottle The AYR bottle is a rigid blow - molded bottle. It is specifically designed to work with the AYR automated liquid refilling system. However, the so - called open - tank systems are still popular; these all require liquid filling bottles that the user can place on top of an open atomizer or engage with a filling nozzle in a vape device and then simply squeeze to manually drip or pump the liquid into the device. The AYR bottle can be modified to also be used for filling open - tank systems; thus, it would need to have a flexible wall instead of a rigid wall.

[0225] We can summarize as follows: A flexible - walled liquid filling bottle configured to: (a) be manually squeezable such that a consumer can manually deliver liquid to a reservoir in a vape device, and (b) be received in a vape system and connected to a pump in the vape system, the pump automatically pumping liquid from the bottle to a liquid reservoir that supplies liquid to an atomizing unit.

[0226] Bottle with dovetail recess for a security or data chip One of the main advantages of the AYR system is that the main consumable (refill bottle) is recyclable. Since tens of millions of these bottles may be manufactured, recyclability is crucial. One feature that may make recycling difficult is the presence of a small authentication chip or memory, which may be cryptographically secure; the memory device stores various data items (e.g., matching numbers, manufacturing dates, liquid types, a counter that decrements each time a defined quantity of liquid is pumped out of the bottle). The authentication chip or memory is typically glued in place, but it causes problems in terms of recycling (including cleaning the bottle for reuse). In the AYR refill bottle, a specially shaped channel receives the memory device and mechanically secures it within the channel; then it can be pressed out of the bottle for recycling. The channel can be a simple dovetail recess into which a standard memory chip can easily slide or be pressed; when the bottle is returned for recycling, the memory device can be easily slid or pushed out of the recess and recycled separately.

[0227] We can summarize as follows: A liquid refill bottle configured to engage with a fluid delivery system in an e-cigarette system, the bottle including a section or recess into which an authentication chip or other authentication memory component can be physically inserted and then held in place by the shape of the section or recess until physically removed to enable the bottle to be recycled.

[0228] Some optional features: • The section is a dovetail section and the component slides into the section.

[0229] • The component can be held in place in the section or recess without any glue or other chemical bonding.

[0230] • The chip or component stores data defining the liquid contents of the bottle.

[0231] • The chip or component stores data defining the temperature-related properties of the substance.

[0232] • The chip or component stores data related to the number of times liquid has been drawn from the bottle or the amount of liquid that has been aspirated from the bottle to prevent the bottle from becoming unusable when filled by the end user.

[0233] • The chip uses an EEPROM emulation mode that causes the counter to decrement irreversibly.

[0234] Nozzle bag The above-mentioned bottle is a hard plastic bottle. Another method is to use a nozzle bag configured to store nicotine e-cigarette liquid or CBD. Soft bags are used for other foods and liquids, but their use for nicotine e-cigarette liquid or CBD has not been determined. Figure 35 A soft bag with a short bag is shown; the soft bag can be installed in a plastic carriage; the filling docking part or cartridge includes a carriage, and the user slides the carriage out of the docking part or cartridge and then slides the soft bag into the carriage, thereby locking the recess or channel extending around the nozzle or neck of the soft bag in the carriage using features or ridges; when the carriage is slid back into the docking part or cartridge, this can ensure the accurate alignment of the nozzle with the nozzle connected to the fluid delivery system in the docking part or cartridge.

[0235] We can summarize as follows: A bag made of one or more flexible barrier films and including a nozzle configured to engage with a fluid delivery system in a vaping system.

[0236] Some optional features: • When filled with liquid, the bag is completely full, so there is basically no air inside the nozzle bag.

[0237] • The bag is a vertical nozzle bag.

[0238] • In the case where the carriage receives the bag, the bag is configured to engage with the carriage as part of an atomization system.

[0239] • The bag is directly connected to a fluid delivery system configured to automatically draw liquid from the bag and transfer the liquid to a reservoir of an atomization system.

[0240] o The fluid delivery system is configured to automatically draw fluid and any air from the bag.

[0241] o The fluid delivery system pumps air out of an air-permeable diaphragm or device that forms part of or is in air communication with the atomization system.

[0242] • The bag stores data (such as stored in a chip, bar code, or QR code, etc.) defining the temperature-related characteristics of the substance in the bag (e.g., e-cigarette liquid, CBD).

[0243] • The bag includes a silicone plug inserted after filling, which allows the liquid to flow out of the bag and prevents air from flowing back into the bag.

[0244] • The bag or nozzle bag stores e-cigarette liquid or CBD and has been vacuum-sealed.

[0245] • The bag or nozzle bag stores e-cigarette liquid or CBD and includes a chip using the EEPROM emulation mode, and this emulation mode causes a counter to decrement irreversibly.

[0246] • The fluid delivery system includes a valve that prevents or restricts air flow back into the bag or nozzle bag.

[0247] • The valve is part of a pump that pumps liquid from the bag or nozzle bag, such as a roller or rotor for a peristaltic pump.

[0248] B. Software / Electronics Figure 26 is a schematic block diagram of the key electronic components in the refill and recharge cartridge (AYRCase) and the Wi-Fi docking station in which the cartridge is located. Figure 30 Shows the appearance of the cartridge and Wi-Fi docking station and the data connection scheme. The Wi-Fi docking station reads data from the vaping device and refill bottle and sends the data to a remote server via a local Wi-Fi link and then via the Internet; the remote server implements various functions such as age verification and data analysis. The user's smartphone can display data (such as nicotine usage data) on a website hosted by the remote server, which is particularly useful for those trying to quit nicotine. There is no direct connection between the smartphone and the vaping device and Wi-Fi docking station. The Wi-Fi connection can be implemented not only in a separate docking station but also directly into the cartridge or directly into the e-cigarette device itself. Usually, a direct connection can also be made between the docking station or vaping device via BT (Bluetooth). Then, the smartphone sends the data (wirelessly or via Wi-Fi) to the remote server.

[0249] Return Figure 26 , the cartridge includes an electric pump and pump controller, a rechargeable battery and associated electronics (including PMIC, power management IC), a microcontroller, and a 1-wire protocol interface to the PV and the liquid refill bottle or capsule. Includes a USB-C charging and data port. In this case, data (e.g., usage data and device performance data) is stored in a memory (4Mbit serial flash); when the cartridge is docked with the Wi-Fi docking station, this data is sent to the docking station via the 1-wire interface and then the data is sent to a web-based remote server via a local Wi-Fi connection.

[0250] Figure 27It is a schematic block diagram of key electronic components in the e-cigarette device body and the refillable tip. The e-cigarette device body (labeled "PV") includes a capacitive measurement chip or circuit, which will be described in detail in later sections. The e-cigarette device body also includes an accelerometer (i.e., any form of orientation sensor), which is used to determine when the atomizer is substantially upright or vertical; as determined by the accelerometer, the device is configured to be refillable only when the personal vaporizer is substantially upright or vertical. Allowing refilling only when the device is substantially upright or vertical greatly simplifies the measurement of the liquid level in the reservoir in the vaping device and ensures that it is not overfilled or underfilled.

[0251] Due to the number of discrete electronic components, there is a significant amount of space to integrate many of these components into a custom ASIC; this results in faster manufacturing, higher reliability, and lower cost. Figure 28 Shows how a custom ASIC (i.e., the AYRBase embodiment) can be used in a Wi-Fi docking station that also refills and recharges the e-cigarette device: This ASIC typically includes not only Wi-Fi, but also Bluetooth functionality, a PMIC (power management IC), a microcontroller, USB handling, and a pump interface. Figure 29 Also shows how a custom ASIC can be used in an e-cigarette device: This ASIC can include coil voltage and current sensing circuits for temperature regulation of the heating element, a microcontroller, a capacitance measurement circuit, a coil on / off switch, a serial flash memory device, and a PMIC. The custom ASIC can also include UWB functionality.

[0252] We can summarize and generalize the key features as follows: Age verification, anti-counterfeiting e-cigarettes One of the major problems in the e-cigarette industry is the prevalence of two types of counterfeit cartridges, where users can easily refill authorized cartridges with illegal or contaminated liquids. Another major problem is the easy availability and attractiveness of these devices to young people, although responsible manufacturers target these devices specifically at adult smokers. These two problems are interrelated because counterfeit cartridges or contaminated liquids are particularly dangerous for underage users (who are inherently more vulnerable to contamination), and underage users are more likely to purchase counterfeit or contaminated liquids because they are usually cheaper and can be obtained through unregulated channels that were originally only sold to adults.

[0253] One feature of AYR is to provide a unified solution to these related problems. In the AYR system, the refill bottle includes an authentication chip. However, the cartridge itself is also anti-counterfeiting (for example, it includes a secure authentication chip that includes a unique ID only available to authorized cartridges), and the vaping device can verify the presence of a satisfactory ID on any container attached to the vaping device; The device includes a connection to a remote server (usually via a connected smartphone), which enables the device to inform the server of the unique ID of the cartridge and obtain permission to use the cartridge; thus, the server can prevent the use of any duplicate cartridges with duplicate IDs.

[0254] The connection is also used to enable the user (usually again using the connected smartphone) to interact with a web server-based age verification system: for example, when a particular user first uses a new vaping device, the user must pair the device with their smartphone and initiate the web server-based age verification system; This can use a variety of age verification methods to ensure that the user is an adult (for example, checking for electoral roles, or credit card availability, or passport or driving license records, etc.); Only when the user has been verified as an adult can the paired vaping device be unlocked. This overall approach minimizes the risks associated with underage use and the use of counterfeit cartridges or cartridges that have been refilled with contaminated liquid.

[0255] We can summarize as follows: A vaping system, comprising: an atomizer cartridge pre-filled with an atomizable liquid; and a vaping device body, wherein the cartridge includes an authentication chip or memory, and the vaping device body includes a cartridge authentication subsystem that enables the cartridge to be used with the body when a certain cartridge standard is met; And the vaping device body further includes a wireless connection subsystem that (i) exchanges data with an application or browser running on the user's smartphone, the application or browser being connected to a web server-based age verification and cartridge usage system, and (ii) is configured to unlock the body only when the user meets the age requirements of the age verification system and the cartridge is authorized for use so that the vaping device can be used normally.

[0256] Some optional features: • The authentication chip or memory is a memory, security chip, or encryption chip that stores an identifier that enables the authentication, verification, or determination of the origin and / or the liquid therein of the cartridge.

[0257] • The cartridge authentication subsystem (a) determines locally or using a remote server whether the values stored in the authentication chip or memory meet the cartridge standards, and (b) allows the use of the cartridge only if those cartridge standards and age requirements are met.

[0258] • Each time the cartridge is used (such as each inhalation), a counter on the authentication chip or in the memory is decremented, and the counter is initially set to a quantity corresponding to the total expected number of inhalations for a single pre-filled cartridge, and the cartridge authentication subsystem is configured to prevent further use of a specific cartridge once the counter drops below a set number.

[0259] • The memory uses an EEPROM emulation mode that causes the counter to decrement irreversibly.

[0260] • Each time an inhalation occurs, the cartridge authentication subsystem sends a signal to the authentication chip or memory on the cartridge.

[0261] • Each time an inhalation occurs, the cartridge authentication subsystem decrements the counter on the authentication chip or memory on the cartridge.

[0262] • The cartridge authentication subsystem reads an identifier from the authentication chip or memory on the cartridge, which enables the origin of the cartridge to be verified or determined, and the wireless connection subsystem is configured to (i) send the identifier to a remote server for processing of the identifier, and (ii) receive an approval or rejection signal from the remote server.

[0263] • The browser automatically runs or executes the URL of an age verification system based on a web server, and the wireless connection subsystem connects to the web server via Wi-Fi.

[0264] • When the user touches an icon designed to be displayed as an application icon on their smart phone device, the browser is opened or launched to run the URL.

[0265] • The e-cigarette device body includes a Wi-Fi connection module or is configured to dock with a docking base or cartridge including a Wi-Fi connection module.

[0266] • The e-cigarette device body includes a location module, such as a GPS or UWB module, and the module sends location data to a geofencing system that determines whether the e-cigarette device body is in an area where e-cigarette smoking is permitted or not, and sends a signal to the e-cigarette device body to lock it and prohibit its use when the device is in an area where e-cigarette smoking is not permitted.

[0267] • The e-cigarette device body includes a receiver that is configured to listen for location-specific signals, such as signals from UWB beacons, and the e-cigarette device body locks and prohibits use when it picks up such a signal.

[0268] • The web server-based age verification system uses one or more of the following to verify the age of a user: age self-verification by the user; age verification of the user using a linked credit card or other age-verified payment card or system; age verification using information from the user's passport; age verification using information from the user's social insurance or national insurance or similar records; age verification using information from the user's driver's license; age verification using information from one or more of the user's social media accounts; age verification using information obtained from a behavior analysis system.

[0269] Non-refillable bottle for user Using a regular cartridge or tip, a determined user can purchase a legal cartridge, use it, and then refill it with a new liquid that may include illegal ingredients or contaminants, which may cause injury or illness. Then, the cartridge can be put back on the e-cigarette device. To prevent such user refilling with liquid, the AYR refill bottle includes a secure memory chip with a counter that is set to a suitable number, such as 256. Each time liquid is automatically withdrawn from the refill bottle through the fluid delivery system, the system checks the number on the counter and decrements the counter by 1. Once the counter reaches zero, the fluid delivery system will no longer withdraw liquid from the bottle; in effect, it cannot be reused even if the user wants to refill it with liquid. The same system can be used in pre-filled cartridges.

[0270] We can summarize as follows: An e-cigarette system comprising: a liquid refill bottle or container and a liquid transfer system configured to automatically transfer liquid from the bottle or container to a liquid reservoir in the e-cigarette device; and wherein the container includes a counter in a memory chip configured to change its value when an event of a defined type affects the bottle or container such that when the counter reaches a limit (e.g., zero) or other value, the bottle or container is locked against further use.

[0271] A liquid refill container for storing liquid for an e-cigarette device, wherein the capsule includes a counter in a memory chip configured to change its value when an event of a defined type affects the capsule such that when the counter reaches a limit (e.g., zero) or other value, the container is locked against further use.

[0272] As described above, the method of using a safety counter is applicable not only to refillable bottles but also to pre-filled atomizer cartridges.

[0273] We can summarize as follows: A vaping system, the vaping system includes a pre-filled liquid cartridge configured for a vaping device, the cartridge includes a counter in a memory chip, the counter is configured to change its value when an event of a defined type affects the cartridge, so that when the counter reaches a limit (such as zero) or other value, the cartridge has been locked and prohibited from further use.

[0274] A pre-filled liquid cartridge configured for a vaping device, the cartridge includes a counter in a memory chip, the counter is configured to change its value when an event of a defined type affects the cartridge, so that when the counter reaches a limit (such as zero) or other value, the cartridge has been locked and prohibited from further use.

[0275] Some optional features: • The defined type of event is using the cartridge, such as drawing liquid from the container.

[0276] • The cartridge includes a memory chip with an EEPROM emulation mode, and this emulation mode enables the counter in the chip to be written each time an event of the defined type affects the capsule.

[0277] • The counter starts from a set number (such as 256), and each time an event of the defined type affects the capsule, the counter decrements by 1.

[0278] • The controller must read a value greater than 1 from the counter in order to allow drawing liquid from the container.

[0279] • The cartridge is configured to slide into the vaping device body or otherwise engage with it.

[0280] PIN lock Another feature in the AYR device is that users can lock and unlock them; the cartridge includes a locking system, and the user must enter the correct sequence of numbers or other identifier in this locking system to activate or unlock the system. A simple and low-cost system combines a screen (such as a low-cost OLED matrix display, for example, 96×64) with a simple mechanical scrolling actuator, and this mechanical scrolling actuator enables the user to input forward, backward, and selection controls.

[0281] This enables a user to quickly type in, for example, a 4 - digit security PIN code to lock and unlock the device. The system can be adapted so that the user can scroll through different numbers or other identifiers and select the appropriate one. The system can be implemented on a refill cartridge or docking base for a vaping device or directly on the personal vaping device itself.

[0282] Thermostatic driver The AYR system is capable of regulating the temperature of the heating element within 20 degrees or more. Accurate temperature regulation is very important because it means that the safety of the vapor composition can be understood and tested; most atomizer heating systems lack effective temperature regulation, and as a result, the coil temperature can peak, which may lead to the production of undesirable chemicals in the inhaled vapor. Accurate temperature regulation is also important because it can greatly increase the service life of the atomizing device. The AYR system operates by measuring the current passing through the heating element within a known voltage; the system calculates the resistance based on this data and then looks up the temperature from the stored data of the resistance temperature coefficient of the material making up the heating element. This is fed into a closed - loop temperature regulation system; the power duty cycle from the PWM current source supplying current to the heating element is adjusted to ensure that the temperature is at the desired level or range. The closed - loop is supplied with the liquid damping of the atomizing system.

[0283] We can summarize as follows: A liquid atomizing system having a heating element configured to heat an atomizable liquid and produce vapor, mist, or aerosol, and the liquid atomizing system is controlled by a thermostatic driver that directly or indirectly using a power source with a known voltage measures the current passing through the heating element and enables a microcontroller or processor to (a) calculate or determine the resistance of the heating element, and (b) calculate the resistance temperature coefficient of the material making up the heating element based on the stored data, or (c) look up the temperature of the heating element; And wherein the driver is configured to use a closed - loop temperature control algorithm to regulate the power, current, or voltage to stabilize the temperature of the heating element at a preset level or range by adjusting the power duty cycle.

[0284] Some optional features: • The driver runs a closed - loop temperature control algorithm and periodically adjusts the power duty cycle after each instance of measuring the current.

[0285] • The current is measured approximately 30 times per second.

[0286] • When the liquid is a PV / VG e - cigarette liquid, the preset level is approximately 280 degrees Celsius.

[0287] • The preset level varies according to the type or chemical composition of the liquid.

[0288] • The heating element is made of a material having a substantially linear resistance temperature coefficient, such as stainless steel 316L.

[0289] • The control loop is configured to be damped by the thermal mass of the atomizable liquid.

[0290] Graceful data termination Since the vaping device sends data to a host (e.g., a docking station or cartridge), it is important that the data is not corrupted. However, the vaping device can be quickly withdrawn from the docking and cartridge, and removed when sending or receiving data would cause damage. We solve this problem by providing a small switch (in the device, cartridge, or docking station) that triggers immediately after the vaping device is moved out of position, but before data contact is lost (data contact is provided via spring-mounted spring pins), so that when the vaping device is moved up and out of the docking or cartridge, these pins remain in contact temporarily. When the switch is activated, the control routine reloads the data transfer and terminates it quickly but in a controlled manner.

[0291] We can summarize as follows: A liquid refilling device that stores a vaping device and enables the vaping device to be ejected or withdrawn, and the refilling device and / or the vaping device includes a switch that (a) activates when the vaping device begins to be ejected or withdrawn from the refilling device, and (b) sends a signal to ensure that any data communication between the vaping device and the refilling device terminates in a controlled manner before data connection is lost.

[0292] Vertical refilling Measuring the amount of liquid in a very small reservoir (with a capacity of approximately 2 mL) is challenging. The AYR system needs to perform this operation inexpensively and reliably in mass-produced products. AYR uses a sophisticated liquid level sending system that determines whether the liquid level in the refillable cartridge is below a threshold and thus requires refilling. Although an in-built accelerometer can be used to compensate for the tilt of the device, this is not entirely reliable. Instead, AYR measures the liquid level in the refillable liquid container especially when the vaping device to which the cartridge is attached is substantially upright or vertical. This is achieved by using an accelerometer that can be located in the vaping device or the docking station or both. The fluid delivery system can only be activated and liquid pumped from the refill bottle to the liquid reservoir when the device is substantially upright or vertical and the liquid level measurement indicating that the liquid level in the cartridge reservoir is below the threshold is complete.

[0293] We can summarize as follows: A vape system configured to automatically refill an e-cigarette device only when the e-cigarette device or the liquid reservoir in the device is substantially upright or vertical.

[0294] Some optional features: • The system includes an accelerometer that sends the system when it is substantially upright or vertical.

[0295] • The fluid delivery system can be activated and liquid can be pumped from a refill bottle to the liquid reservoir only when the device is substantially upright or vertical and a level measurement indicating that the level of liquid in the cartridge reservoir is below a threshold has been completed.

[0296] Light patterns The AYR vape device includes a series of lights on the vape device; these lights gradually dim when the user vapes, and after the user has vaped an equivalent amount of nicotine or for an equivalent duration compared to smoking a single cigarette, all the lights are completely off. These lights can be repurposed for other effects, for example, a light pattern made up of a series of lights controlled by an accelerometer in the vape device.

[0297] We can summarize as follows: A vape device that includes a series of lights that gradually dim as the user vapes, but can also be controlled to illuminate together or in a sequential sequence, or otherwise form a light pattern.

[0298] Some optional features: • There is a row of 5 or more lights on one side of the vape device.

[0299] • There is one or more circular light rings around the vape device.

[0300] • The accelerometer provides input to a microcontroller that in turn controls the series of lights.

[0301] • The light pattern is that all the lights pulsate simultaneously.

[0302] • The light pattern is sequential illumination of the lights to form a pattern that can move the vape device down, up and down, and up.

[0303] • A specific light pattern indicates that the mouthpiece needs to be changed.

[0304] • A specific light pattern indicates that the device needs to be refilled with liquid.

[0305] • A specific light pattern indicates that the device has been locked and is prohibited from use.

[0306] C. Data and connections AYR session For smokers who wish to quit smoking by transitioning to vaping, a major challenge is that most vaping devices make it difficult for them to establish a relationship between the amount of nicotine inhaled while vaping and the amount of nicotine that could have been inhaled from a cigarette. Some conventional e-liquid cartridges contain the same amount of nicotine as 20 cigarettes, but there is no accurate way to know when one has consumed or vaped an amount equivalent to just one normal cigarette.

[0307] AYR addresses this problem by enabling the user (when configuring their AYR device) to set it to be applicable to parameters such as time and / or number of inhalations, and AYR will deliver approximately the same amount of nicotine for a normal or average inhalation as a single cigarette of the brand the user actually smokes. As previously mentioned, the AYR vaping device has a series of lights (usually 8) that extend along one side of the vaping device, and these lights gradually go out as the session progresses; when all the lights are out, the session ends. After the session cutoff, the user will either have to wait a preset time, or return the device to its cartridge (if any), or take some other action or step that makes it easier for them to interrupt and thus control the amount of vaping, and all they do is to some extent related to their smoking habit.

[0308] By mimicking smoking habits in this way and providing clear visual, auditory, and / or tactile feedback on the progress of the session (including the start and end of the session), the risk of the user increasing their nicotine consumption when switching from cigarettes to vaping can be minimized. The user can set nicotine consumption reduction or withdrawal goals via an application, and these goals can be used to change the parameters of consecutive sessions or session programs, so that these goals can be achieved.

[0309] We can summarize as follows: A vaping system configured such that a vaping device can be used for a single session, i.e., a session of vaping for a limited time or to a limited extent, during which the vaping device is operational and the vaping device provides visual, tactile, and / or audible markers for the start and end of the session; And wherein the system is configured to receive from the user a selection or indication of the type or brand of cigarette they are currently smoking, and then the system automatically adjusts the time or other parameters of the single session such that during the session, the amount of nicotine generated by the vaping device or inhaled by the user is approximately equal to the amount of nicotine associated with a single cigarette of a particular type or brand of cigarette.

[0310] Some optional features: • The session is a preset time within which the vaping device can operate before automatically and temporarily stopping operation.

[0311] •A session is a preset level of vaping (such as the number of inhalations or the amount of liquid atomized) during which the vaping device is able to operate before automatically and temporarily ceasing operation.

[0312] •Program the vaping device to automatically cease operation after a user-defined preset time has elapsed since the session ended.

[0313] •Programming the vape device to automatically resume normal operation when returned to its dock or box and then withdrawn from the dock or box.

[0314] • The system includes a smartphone or tablet application that is configured to enable the user to type in a specific type or brand of cigarettes.

[0315] •The system is configured to receive a selection or indication from the user of a nicotine consumption reduction or abstinence goal that they plan to achieve, and the system then automatically adjusts the timing or other parameters of a single session program so that the amount of nicotine generated by the vaping device during that session program reaches the user's nicotine consumption reduction goal.

[0316] Wi-Fi connected vaping device AYR is a "connected" e-cigarette device; "connected" means that the device has some form of data connection, or has the ability to send data, or receive data, or send and receive data, such as directly or indirectly to the user's smartphone or smartwatch, etc. and / or to a remote server. Connectivity also enables the user to control the vape device from their smartphone, etc., and for the vape device to send useful data (such as consumption or usage data, or battery charge data or liquid level data, etc.) to a remote server. Connectivity also enables consumers to order consumables (e.g., new pre-filled pods or heating strips, etc.). Connectivity also enables rich behavioral insights to be obtained from the data.

[0317] Connected vaping devices have been discussed for many years; connectivity is supported by including some data connection system in the device itself (eg, a Bluetooth modem and a mobile application for the user's smartphone).

[0318] The method of Bluetooth connectivity linking a vape device to a user's smartphone running a mobile app is the overwhelmingly standard way to achieve connectivity: it represents a very strong technical bias that influences the typical engineer's thinking. Faced with the challenge of making a non-connected vape device into a connected vape device that can be accessed from a user's smartphone, the typical engineer's inevitable response is to include Bluetooth connectivity directly into the vape device and build a companion mobile app, which can then be purchased from the smartphone vendor's app store.

[0319] However, including a Bluetooth modem in a portable vaporizer device is problematic because it greatly increases the device's complexity and adds new failure modes to the device - although it may seem relatively simple, ensuring that Bluetooth works reliably on a wide variety of possible smartphones and other devices can be a challenge.

[0320] In addition, not all users desire or use connectivity. For personal privacy reasons, a large number of potential users will be warned that the device is connected; for such potential users, simply deactivating the connection is not sufficient because they fear that covert surveillance may still occur.

[0321] There is further complexity due to the requirement that mobile applications (e.g., from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store) be available for the user's smartphone operating system. However, the OS vendor may impose different rules on which applications are offered or not offered in its store. For example, Google Play Store is currently very lenient. However, the Apple App Store does not allow companion applications for nicotine vaporizer devices. But they do allow companion applications for devices that support inhaling CBD. And these rules can change in a short period of time; for example, Google Play Store could choose to also ban applications related to nicotine vaporizer devices.

[0322] This is a surprisingly complex set of technical challenges for designing a portable vaporizer device system that: • Has potential connectivity but with the lowest cost and complexity.

[0323] • Has potential connectivity but does not compromise the personal privacy of users who are sensitive to this issue.

[0324] • Has potential connectivity but is not affected by the inconsistent rules imposed by the device vendor on the companion applications offered in its online app store.

[0325] Although it is possible to integrate a full 3G or 4G wireless connection into the vaporizer device, this would significantly increase the price; instead, it is better to utilize the existing connection infrastructure. The route we have chosen for the AYRCase is for the vaporizer device to collect data as well as for the cartridge to collect data; when the vaporizer device is inserted into the cartridge, the cartridge collects data from the PV. The cartridge itself does not include a Wi-Fi module, although this is a possible variant.

[0326] In the current variant, the cartridge is inserted into a thin docking part (see Figure 30), the docking portion indeed includes a Wi-Fi module and a Wi-Fi antenna. The docking portion is also used to power the cartridge through a USB-C port in order to charge the internal rechargeable battery in the cartridge. The cartridge transfers data to the Wi-Fi docking portion via USB-C and then sends the data through the local Wi-Fi network to which the docking portion is attached in a normal manner by the user. The data is sent to a remote server for processing; when the user opens a web browser with a specific URL, the relevant data is provided to the user.

[0327] BLE is used as a transport protocol that operates over Wi-Fi, enabling the vape device to appear as an IoT endpoint and eliminating the need for a smartphone application from an app store. Instead, only a web browser is required. A single connection API, namely the BLEAPI, is used; the cartridge treats the wi-fi and charging docking portion as additional BLE modules with the same interaction protocol and communicates with them based on BLE characteristics (e.g., notifying that the characteristic of a given UUID has changed). The AYR-specific protocol on top of BLE is implemented only once and is used to communicate with connected smartphones and web-based user applications; the web-based user application presents itself as an icon on the user's smartphone screen just like a regular app icon from an app store or an Android store, although it is not actually so. Thus, the docking portion of the AYRCase is actually a charging platform with a built-in Wi-Fi module.

[0328] The Wi-Fi module can also be included in the docking portion, the size of which can be set to receive only a separate vape device. The docking portion in the AYR Dock variant (which both recharges the vape device and refills it with liquid) can itself also include a Wi-Fi module.

[0329] We can summarize and generalize as follows: A vape system, comprising: (i) a vape device, which includes a rechargeable battery and a data port; and (ii) a first charging system for the vape device and configured to supply power to the rechargeable battery; and (iii) a separate second charging system configured to receive the vape device and supply power to the rechargeable battery and receive data from the vape device via the data port; and (iv) a mobile website configured to be hosted on a remote server and accessible from a final user's smartphone, smartwatch, or other personal device; And wherein the second charging system includes a Wi-Fi module, chip or unit configured to send data received from the vaping device to a mobile website hosted on a remote server via the Internet.

[0330] The first charging system is typically just a conventional USB charging cable that can be directly plugged into the vaping device. The second charging system is typically one of the following: (a) A charging docking station into which the vaping device is directly docked and which has a built-in Wi-Fi based data connection; (b) A refill and recharge cartridge into which the vaping device is inserted, plus a docking station for the cartridge that has a built-in Wi-Fi based data connection, as Figure 30 shown; (b) A refill and recharge cartridge into which the vaping device is inserted for storage, where the cartridge itself has a built-in Wi-Fi based data connection; (d) A USB charging cable that includes a Wi-Fi module and is directly plugged into the vaping device; (e) A USB charging cable that terminates in a platform with a USB connector, where the platform includes a Wi-Fi module and the vaping device docks with the platform.

[0331] This architecture addresses a complex set of technical challenges outlined above. As described above, data is sent from the mobile website to the remote server for processing and possible display. Since a mobile website is used and no application that must be downloaded from the device manufacturer's app store (e.g., the Apple App Store or Google Play Store) is required, the mobile website can provide full and consistent functionality on all devices, whether Apple iOS or Android, and regardless of whether the inhaled substance is nicotine, CBD, or some other substance that actually exists. Full functionality can be used, such as ordering fresh pre-filled capsules or other consumables. In addition, users who do not want any form of connectivity can only use the first charging system without a data connection (which could be as simple as a USB power cable). They will have complete confidence that there is no possibility of compromising data privacy because they can simply choose not to use the second charging system, which would otherwise provide connectivity. Other users who do indeed want to use their smartphone or other smart device for data connectivity and a fully functional connectivity experience only need to use the second charging system (e.g., a charging dock that the vaping device docks into and has a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi); or a refill and recharge cartridge that the vaping device is inserted into, and then the cartridge itself is placed into a dock with a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi; or a refill and recharge cartridge that the vaping device is inserted into, where the cartridge itself has a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi; or a USB charging cable that includes a Wi-Fi module.

[0332] Some optional features: • The first charging system is a charging cable that can be directly inserted into the e-cigarette device.

[0333] • The first charging system is a desktop docking station, but does not have any Wi-Fi modules, chips, or units.

[0334] • The first charging system is a docking port that is connected to a USB or other port in a computer or other device to receive power from the computer or other device.

[0335] • The second charging system is a charging dock that the vaping device directly docks into, and the charging dock has a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi; • The second charging system is a refill and recharge cartridge that the vaping device is inserted into, plus a dock for the cartridge that has a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi; • The second charging system is a refill and recharge cartridge that the vaping device is inserted into for storage, where the cartridge itself has a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi.

[0336] • The second charging system is a USB charging cable that includes a Wi-Fi module.

[0337] • The second charging system is a USB charging cable that terminates at a platform with a USB connector, where the platform includes a Wi-Fi module.

[0338] • BLE is used as a transport protocol that runs over Wi-Fi, enabling the vape device to appear as an IoT endpoint.

[0339] • BLE is used as a transport protocol that runs over Wi-Fi, enabling the vape device to appear as an IoT endpoint, eliminating the need for a smartphone application from the app store and instead only requiring a web browser.

[0340] • The system uses a single connection API, namely the BLE API.

[0341] Another approach is to integrate the Wi-Fi module directly into the vape device itself without a separate docking station; we can summarize as follows: A portable vape device system apparatus, comprising: (i) A portable vape device that includes a rechargeable battery and a data port; and (i1) A mobile website that is configured to be hosted on a remote server and accessible from an end user's smartphone, smartwatch, or other personal device; and wherein The vape device includes a Wi-Fi module, chip, or unit that is configured to send data over the internet to the mobile website hosted on the remote server.

[0342] Server analysis As described above, AYR is a Wi-Fi-connected device that provides data to the server (with user consent), which analyzes the data and generates consumer or behavioral data insights based on usage data. This is contrary to the standard approach, which requires a Bluetooth connection module and a smartphone application, and the application itself may not be available for important operating systems (such as Apple iOS). Providing a Wi-Fi-connected device is crucial for obtaining representative high-quality data for consumer or behavioral insights; a vape system that only uses Bluetooth connectivity may be biased towards only covering users who can pair their vape system with an Android smartphone, thus compromising the quality of the resulting data and therefore affecting the insights.

[0343] We can summarize as follows: An e-cigarette data analysis system, which includes an e-cigarette system and a remote server. The e-cigarette system collects usage data related to the way consumers use the device and sends the usage data directly or indirectly to a remote server connected to the Internet via Wi-Fi. The Wi-Fi connection is established by the e-cigarette device, and then the server analyzes the data and generates consumer or behavioral data insights based on the usage data.

[0344] Some optional features: • The Wi-Fi connection is provided by a charging docking station. The e-cigarette device is directly docked into the charging docking station, and the charging docking station has a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi.

[0345] • The Wi-Fi connection is provided by a refill and recharge cartridge. The e-cigarette device is inserted into the refill and recharge cartridge, plus a docking station for the cartridge with a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi.

[0346] • The Wi-Fi connection is provided by a refill and recharge cartridge. The e-cigarette device is inserted into the refill and recharge cartridge for storage, where the cartridge itself has a data connection based on built-in Wi-Fi.

[0347] • The Wi-Fi connection is provided by a USB charging cable including a Wi-Fi module. The charging cable is directly inserted into the e-cigarette device.

[0348] • The Wi-Fi connection is provided by a USB charging cable. The charging cable terminates at a platform with a USB connector, where the platform includes a Wi-Fi module and the e-cigarette device is docked to the platform.

[0349] • The usage data is related to the flavor and strength of the atomized liquid; and the remote server generates data including feedback (such as real-time feedback) to the liquid filling and logistics system to ensure that the most popular flavors are available in stores and online when needed.

[0350] • The usage data is related to the flavor and strength of a newly launched atomized liquid; and the remote server generates data including feedback (such as real-time feedback) to the liquid and flavor house to ensure the rapid, evidence-based creation and launch of new flavors, including flavors that appeal to smokers rather than minors.

[0351] • The usage data is related to the geographical location of the flavor and strength of the atomized liquid; and the remote server generates data including feedback (such as real-time feedback) to the capsule filling and logistics system to ensure that the most popular flavors are available in stores and online in the cities or regions where they are most needed.

[0352] • Usage data is related to characteristics associated with underage liquid consumers, and the remote server generates data including a warning message for those consumers or others.

[0353] • Usage data is related to characteristics associated with underage liquid consumers, and the remote server generates data including an alarm signal for adults or organizations such as schools or universities.

[0354] • Usage data is related to characteristics associated with the geographical location of underage liquid consumers and an atomizing device, and the remote server generates data including an alarm signal for adults or organizations such as schools or universities.

[0355] • Usage data is related to characteristics associated with underage liquid consumers, and the remote server generates data including a signal for deactivating or locking the atomizing device.

[0356] • Usage data is related to the liquid level in the device and any associated capsules; and the remote server generates data including a message prompting the user to purchase more capsules or liquid (e.g., via an electronic order) and provides special offers / coupons for use in stores or online.

[0357] • Usage data is related to the flavor and / or strength of the atomized liquid; and the remote server generates real-time feedback on other flavors they might like for consumers.

[0358] • Usage data is related to self-reported continuous smoking; and the remote server generates real-time feedback on the positive health effects of reduced cigarette consumption.

[0359] • Usage data is related to patterns or usage over time; and the remote server generates data related to any association with advertising or marketing to determine the effectiveness of advertising or marketing.

[0360] • Usage data is related to patterns or usage over time; and the remote server generates data providing insights into product usage for regulatory agencies or health service providers.

[0361] • Usage data is related to the number of uses, duration of each session, or amount of liquid consumed; and the remote server generates data providing real-time insights into usage.

[0362] • Usage data is related to the age, gender, and other demographic data of the user; and the remote server generates real-time demographic insights into the people using the device.

[0363] UWB-connected vape device The UWB (Ultra-Wideband) standard enables very low-cost and low-power chips to be added to electronic devices, achieving a position sensing accuracy of several centimeters for these devices and enabling the exchange of data (such as location data) with other devices (including UWB-equipped smartphones such as the Apple iPhone 11). Therefore, a vape device equipped with UWB functionality can very accurately determine its location and share that location with other devices; this will cause the vape device to automatically disable in areas where e-cigarette use is not allowed (such as on airplanes, or within school buildings or a wider school campus); for example, a UWB beacon (fixed or mobile) in a vape-free zone may continuously broadcast a message or tag, and any UWB-equipped vape device that is close enough or within the defined vape-free zone will pick up that message or tag; the vape device will automatically process the receipt of the message or tag and cause itself to disable; the vape device will display a warning light or message warning the user of the reason for this disablement. The UWB beacon can be a smartphone or tablet of an authorized user: thus, a school teacher can activate a flag or message at any time or location and thereby disable a vape device that picks up that flag or message.

[0364] We can summarize as follows: A portable vape device, the portable vape device including a UWB chip or an ASIC integrating UWB functionality.

[0365] Some optional features: • The UWB chip or the ASIC integrating UWB functionality provides a geographical location and / or geofencing function to prevent the portable vape device from operating in a defined area.

[0366] • The vape device listens for a specific message or tag broadcast from a UWB device, and the message or tag causes the device to automatically disable itself.

[0367] • The vape device uses UWB to track its location and determines whether it is in a location where e-cigarette use is allowed or not, and if it is in a location where e-cigarette use is not allowed, it will disable itself.

[0368] • The vape device uses UWB to track its location and shares that location with another UWB-enabled device.

[0369] • The UWB-enabled device sharing the location data determines whether e-cigarette use is allowed at the location of the vape device, and if e-cigarette use is not allowed, it sends a flag or message to the vape device.

[0370] • The UWB-enabled device sharing the location data is a smartphone.

[0371] • The UWB-enabled device that shares location data is a docking station that refills the vape device with liquid and recharges the battery in the vape device.

[0372] • The UWB-enabled device that shares location data is a portable refill and recharge case that refills the vape device with liquid and recharges the battery in the vape device.

[0373] D. Liquid Handling and Refilling As described earlier in this document, AYR uses an active fluid management system to automatically refill a small liquid reservoir or chamber (typically having a liquid capacity between 1 mL - 2 mL) in the vape device to a predetermined fixed threshold; this small liquid reservoir supplies liquid to an atomization unit that generates an aerosol from the liquid. The active fluid management system is used to automatically and without user intervention refill the vaporizer device with liquid from a larger reservoir (typically a user-replaceable but non-user-refillable bottle, such as a 10 mL refill bottle). The active fluid management system is very compact and cost-effective and relies on measuring the capacitance of the small chamber; the capacitance varies with the volume of liquid in the chamber. Although this section will describe the capacitive system in detail, the AYR system can also use other liquid level sensing techniques, such as simple optical systems where a light beam is emitted through a transparent walled liquid reservoir at the midpoint up from the bottom; if the beam is interrupted in a way that is absorbed by a certain type of liquid in the reservoir, the system assumes the reservoir is at least half full and does not initiate pumping. But if the beam is not interrupted in this way, the system assumes the reservoir needs filling and initiates pumping. The light beam and sensor are located in the docking station or case.

[0374] However, we have found that the capacitance measurement system is reliable and cost-effective.

[0375] Basic Operation Figure 31 A simplified block diagram showing the core elements of the entire vape system. The fluid reservoir 301 in the vape device contains a heating coil 302 that is supported in a silicone sleeve. The amount of fluid in the small chamber is sensed by reading the capacitance between two capacitor sensor plates 303 in the chamber.

[0376] The capacitance is approximately proportional to the amount of e-liquid in the chamber. The microcontroller 304 in the refill device controls the peristaltic pump 305 by comparing the capacitance of the small liquid reservoir in the vaping device with a preset threshold. If the capacitance is below the threshold, the microcontroller will start the pump and draw liquid from a sealed reservoir (e.g., a 10 mL liquid refill bottle) and then pump the liquid into the liquid reservoir 301 until the liquid level reaches the threshold.

[0377] Closed-loop control The refill function is only initiated after the vaping device has completed an e-vaping session, the vaping device has been returned to the refill device (e.g., the desktop docking station for AYRBase or the refill and recharge case for AYRCase), and the vaping device is placed upright. In the case where the vaping device has an integrated internal liquid pump (AYRMod), the refill function is initiated again after the vaping device has completed an e-vaping session and is placed upright.

[0378] Once initiated, the microcontroller will implement closed-loop control of the pump to pump the liquid until a predetermined threshold is reached. This keeps the liquid level in the vaping device at approximately the same level. In the AYR device, the level is approximately 50% - 60% of the maximum liquid capacity of 2 mL - i.e., approximately 1 mL.

[0379] Capacitance measurement The parallel resonance method is used to measure the capacitance of the sensor in the vaping device. An inductor and capacitor energy storage oscillator circuit is used; the exact resonance frequency is sensed; the value of the external sensing capacitor is calculated based on this resonance frequency.

[0380] To ensure high precision and repeatability, each measurement circuit is individually calibrated on the production line to compensate for all stray capacitances in the circuit board and in the interconnections between the vaping device and the measurement circuit.

[0381] Figure 32 A simplified schematic is shown. The circuit is designed to measure capacitances in the range of 0 - 20 pF. The calibration constants obtained from the production line calibration process are stored in non-volatile memory (located in the vaping device) and are used by the system software to eliminate static stray capacitances. The current specific implementation uses an application-specific integrated circuit to form the oscillator and frequency measurement functions. Over time, this could evolve into a discrete, more cost-effective design; integrating as many functions as possible into a custom ASIC is a key way to reduce the cost of goods or COG of the device.

[0382] Liquid characterization and certification The capacitance change of the sensor is proportional to the amount of liquid in the chamber, but it also depends on the chemical composition of the liquid (e.g., nicotine strength, whether it is a nicotine salt, flavoring used, amount of water present, amounts of PG and VG), and the temperature of the liquid.

[0383] This means that each liquid formulation needs to be characterized based on the relationship between the weight of the liquid and the capacitance reading, and these constants need to be stored with the liquid on a large reservoir (e.g., a 10 mL refill bottle). This data is stored in a small serial ROM chip attached to the large reservoir, and this data can then be read by the microcontroller in the vaping device before filling begins.

[0384] In addition, the ROM chip contains (i) an encryption key that is used to authenticate the reservoir (cartridge); and (ii) a (only) decrement counter to prevent refilling with an unknown liquid. If authentication and prevention of refilling are not required, the e-liquid characteristics can be optically stored on the cartridge to reduce costs, for example, in the form of a barcode or other glyphs.

[0385] Figure 33 Test results are shown that depict the relationship between liquid mass and sensor capacitance for two different samples of the measurement circuitry but the same liquid. Error bars across the samples are also shown. Although sufficient linearity and absolute accuracy are shown, these readings can be further improved by adding a calibration step. But this illustrates the basic ability to detect with sufficient accuracy whether the liquid mass in a small liquid reservoir is above or below a threshold and to keep the pump off or start the pump respectively.

[0386] Temperature Compensation The capacitance reading depends not only on the volume of the liquid in the reservoir containing the capacitor plates, but also typically on the liquid formulation. The capacitance reading may also depend slightly on the temperature of the liquid. To compensate for this temperature variation in the threshold that would trigger the pump to stay off or start, there is a temperature sensor that measures the ambient temperature near the vaping tip. The microprocessor uses the temperature sensor to compensate for the effect of temperature on the threshold. These thresholds are characterized at 5 °C and 45 °C and are stored on the serial ROM on the 10 mL bottle or cartridge. If the ambient temperature is outside this range, the microprocessor also prohibits filling the vaping tip.

[0387] Figure 34Shows the variation of the raw capacitance readings over time with ambient temperature when the atomizer is first heated to 45 °C and then cooled to 5 °C using an actual AYR capacitance-based liquid level measurement system. Readings for seven tips were taken at 5 °C and 20 °C (each circle in the graph is associated with a single device), and readings for eight tips were taken at 40 °C. Each tip contains 1.4 g of liquid. As can be seen, the range of the measured capacitance with temperature change hardly varies, and thus for the specific system used in AYR, as Figure 31 shown, no compensation for purely temperature-related capacitance changes is required.

[0388] Flavor change The peristaltic pump is bi-directional, so when a change in liquid flavor is required, the microcontroller can pump the e-liquid from the atomizer tip in reverse and return it to the main reservoir or refill bottle. This will not completely empty the atomizer of all e-liquid as some e-liquid will remain soaked in the heating coil, but helps to reduce odor contamination.

[0389] We can summarize the key features as follows: Liquid level sensing An e-cigarette system comprising: (a) An automatically refillable liquid reservoir that supplies liquid to the atomizer; (b) A liquid level sensing subsystem that directly or indirectly measures, infers, or detects the amount or level of liquid in the liquid reservoir by measuring an electrical property of the liquid reservoir that varies according to the amount or level of liquid in the liquid reservoir; and (c) A fluid delivery system configured to automatically deliver liquid to the liquid reservoir under the control of the liquid level sensing subsystem.

[0390] Some optional features: Electrical property features • The electrical property measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem is capacitance, or a variable corresponding to capacitance, such as resonant frequency.

[0391] • The liquid level sensing subsystem is a capacitive sensing system that uses two capacitive sensors in the liquid reservoir to measure capacitance, and the capacitance varies approximately inversely with the amount or level of liquid in the reservoir.

[0392] • The liquid level sensing subsystem detects the resonant frequency of an LC resonator circuit including a capacitive sensor in the liquid reservoir and converts the measured resonant frequency into a digital value corresponding to capacitance, and the capacitance corresponds to the liquid level in the liquid reservoir.

[0393] • The shift in the measured resonant frequency corresponds to a change in capacitance, which in turn corresponds to a change in the liquid level in the liquid reservoir.

[0394] • During manufacturing or construction time, the level sensing subsystem is individually calibrated using calibration parameters that compensate for stray capacitance, and these parameters are stored in a memory in the vaporizer system that includes the calibrated level sensing subsystem.

[0395] • The level sensing subsystem is connected to a sensor located in the liquid reservoir or associated with the liquid reservoir, and is excited by an AC signal, and then measures capacitance using a parallel resonance circuit, where the capacitance varies with the liquid level in the liquid reservoir.

[0396] • The electrical characteristics measured by the level sensing subsystem include one or more of the following: impedance, reactance, or resistance, or a digital value corresponding to impedance, reactance, or resistance.

[0397] • The level sensing subsystem is connected to a sensor located in the liquid reservoir or associated with the liquid reservoir, and is excited by an AC signal, and then measures impedance using a bridge circuit, where the impedance varies with the liquid level in the liquid reservoir.

[0398] • The level sensing subsystem is connected to a sensor located in the liquid reservoir or associated with the liquid reservoir, and is excited by an AC signal at a high enough frequency, such as a 100KHz signal, where capacitive reactance is the main component of the impedance of the liquid reservoir, thus reducing the effect of resistance (which is more susceptible to changes in the orientation of the device); then measures impedance using a bridge circuit, where the impedance varies with the liquid level in the liquid reservoir.

[0399] • The level sensing subsystem is connected to a sensor located in the liquid reservoir or associated with the liquid reservoir, and is excited by an AC excitation signal, such as a 100KHz signal, and the impedance is approximately proportional to the attenuation of the excitation signal.

[0400] Level Sensing Subsystem Characteristics • The level sensing subsystem provides closed-loop control of a fluid delivery system configured to pump liquid into the reservoir until a predetermined electrical characteristic threshold is reached.

[0401] • The predetermined electrical characteristic threshold corresponds to the liquid reservoir being filled until it is approximately half full.

[0402] • The total capacity of the liquid reservoir is approximately 2 ml.

[0403] • The predetermined electrical characteristic threshold corresponds to approximately 1 ml of liquid in the liquid reservoir.

[0404] • The liquid level sensing subsystem compares the measured electrical characteristics with one or more stored values of those electrical characteristics and controls the fluid delivery system based on the result of the comparison.

[0405] • The fluid delivery system is configured to pump liquid into the liquid reservoir under the control of the liquid level sensing subsystem until a preset electrical characteristic threshold is measured.

[0406] • If the measured electrical characteristic drops below a predetermined level, the liquid level sensing subsystem activates the pump, and if the measured electrical characteristic reaches the same predetermined level, the pump is turned off.

[0407] • If the measured electrical characteristic exceeds a predetermined level, the liquid level sensing subsystem activates the pump, and if the measured electrical characteristic drops approximately below the same predetermined level, the pump is turned off.

[0408] • If the amount or level of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined level, the liquid level sensing subsystem activates the pump.

[0409] • If the amount or level of liquid in the liquid reservoir reaches a predetermined level, the liquid level sensing subsystem turns off the pump.

[0410] • If the amount or level of liquid in the liquid reservoir is below a predetermined level, the liquid level sensing subsystem activates the pump, and if the amount or level of liquid in the liquid reservoir reaches approximately the same predetermined level, the liquid level sensing subsystem turns off the pump.

[0411] • The liquid level sensing subsystem measures the orientation of the reservoir or receives an input from a subsystem that measures the orientation of the reservoir and allows the measurement of electrical characteristics and / or refilling only if the orientation is within a preset range.

[0412] • The liquid level sensing subsystem measures the orientation of the reservoir or receives an input from a subsystem that measures the orientation of the reservoir and allows the measurement of electrical characteristics and / or refilling only if the orientation is substantially vertical.

[0413] • Using an ASIC that includes a measurement circuit for the liquid level sensing subsystem, the liquid level sensing subsystem measures the orientation of the reservoir or receives an input from a subsystem that measures the orientation of the reservoir.

[0414] Atomizer features • The liquid reservoir forms part of a refillable tip that can be replaced by the end user when the entire refillable tip reaches the end of its service life.

[0415] • The atomizer, having a porous wick, ceramic, or other porous material, supplies liquid directly from the liquid reservoir without an intermediate reservoir or liquid conduit.

[0416] • Atomizers with porous wicks, ceramics, or other porous materials are supplied with liquid from a liquid reservoir indirectly via an intermediate reservoir or one or more liquid conduits such as a liquid siphon.

[0417] • The liquid level sensing subsystem is operable in any of the following types of vaping systems: portable vaping devices; refillable and rechargeable cartridges that both refill and recharge the vaping device stored in the cartridge; docking stations that both refill and recharge the vaping device placed in the docking station; integrated vaping devices with a battery of at least 1000 mAh.

[0418] • The vaping device uses a ceramic wick.

[0419] • The vaping device uses a planar ceramic wick that has a substantially flat surface and a heating element formed or positioned on the surface.

[0420] • The vaping device uses microengineered stainless steel blades.

[0421] • The fluid delivery system withdraws liquid from a user-replaceable, fully recyclable, closed refill capsule or bottle and pumps it to the liquid reservoir.

[0422] • The fluid delivery system includes an electric peristaltic pump.

[0423] Sensor construction features • The liquid level sensing subsystem is connected to a sensor that includes a sensor board or structure placed inside the liquid reservoir.

[0424] • The liquid level sensing subsystem includes two opposing capacitive sensor boards or other structures, each of which includes a pair of substantially flat side sections and a central circular or curved section, and the side sections of these opposing boards or other structures are substantially parallel to each other.

[0425] • The central circular or curved section surrounds a tube assembly in which an atomizer is assembled.

[0426] • The opposing boards or other structures are located inside the liquid reservoir.

[0427] • The liquid level sensing subsystem includes a liquid level sensing subsystem that includes sensor boards or other structures that are mounted against one or more ribs or other physical features configured to ensure consistent and accurate separation of the opposing boards or other structures.

[0428] • The liquid level sensing subsystem includes a capacitive sensor plate or other structure mounted outside the liquid reservoir and substantially positioned within the refill docking portion.

[0429] • The liquid level sensing subsystem includes two opposing capacitive sensor plates or other structures, each including a substantially flat side section that is substantially parallel to each other and mounted outside the liquid reservoir and substantially positioned within the refill docking portion.

[0430] • The liquid level sensing subsystem is connected to a sensor located within or associated with the liquid reservoir, the sensor including a pair of sensor plates or other structures having substantially concentric sections.

[0431] • The liquid level sensing subsystem is connected to a sensor located within or associated with the liquid reservoir, the sensor including a pair of sensor plates or other structures made of the same metallic material such as stainless steel or copper.

[0432] • The electrical property measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem is detected by a sensor that is at least partially integral with the wall of the liquid reservoir.

[0433] • The capacitive sensor forms at least a portion of the inner and outer walls of the liquid reservoir.

[0434] • The outer wall of the liquid reservoir is part of the housing of the vaping device.

[0435] • The atomizer includes a metallic blade or plate, and the blade or plate forms part of a capacitive sensor plate or other structure.

[0436] Liquid specific characteristics • The liquid level sensing subsystem compensates for or adjusts the chemical composition or formulation of each specific flavor, strength, or type of liquid.

[0437] • Each specific flavor, strength, or type of liquid is tested, and the electrical property of each specific liquid is determined as a function of the mass or weight of the liquid in the liquid reservoir, and the relevant data values are stored in a manner accessible to the liquid level sensing subsystem.

[0438] • The electrical property measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem depends on the chemical composition of the liquid in the liquid reservoir, and specific data values for a specific composition, formulation, or type of liquid are stored in a memory such as ROM or an optical barcode on the liquid refill bottle for the liquid and are accessible by the liquid level detection subsystem.

[0439] • The data values of the capacitance or capacitance-related data measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem for a specific liquid at a threshold fill level are stored in the refill bottle for the specific liquid and are accessible by the liquid level detection subsystem.

[0440] • Data values mapping the amount or quality of a specific liquid for capacitance or capacitance-related data measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem at one or more thresholds or values related to the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir for the specific liquid are stored and accessible by the vaping system.

[0441] • The data values are stored on the bottle or capsule supplying the e-liquid.

[0442] • The data values are stored in a serial ROM chip on the bottle or capsule.

[0443] • The data values are stored in a barcode or other optically readable data.

[0444] Temperature-related features • The liquid level sensing subsystem uses an ambient temperature sensor to compensate for or regulate the temperature of the liquid.

[0445] • If the measured temperature measured using the ambient temperature sensor falls outside of preset operating limits such as 5 °C and 45 °C, the liquid level sensing subsystem prohibits the filling operation.

[0446] • The data sent to the liquid level sensing subsystem enables the liquid level sensing subsystem to compensate for the temperature-related variability of the properties of liquids with different chemical compositions.

[0447] • The electrical properties measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem are temperature-related, and the stored values of the electrical properties include values at and / or between the lower and upper operating ranges of the device such as 5 °C and 45 °C.

[0448] • The vaping system includes an ambient temperature sensor that provides temperature data to the liquid filling subsystem such that the subsystem can compare the measured electrical properties with values appropriate for the ambient temperature of the liquid reservoir.

[0449] • The vaping system includes a temperature sensor positioned adjacent to or sufficiently close to the liquid reservoir to provide an estimate of the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir.

[0450] • Data values characterizing how the capacitance of a specific e-liquid or series or type of liquids varies with temperature are stored and accessible by the e-cigarette system.

[0451] • Data values characterizing how the capacitance of a specific e-liquid or series or type of e-liquids varies between the lower and upper operating ranges are stored and accessible by the liquid filling subsystem.

[0452] • The stored data values of the electrical properties are stored in or on the liquid capsule supplying the liquid to the liquid delivery system.

[0453] • The stored values of the electrical characteristics are stored in a ROM chip or other memory on the liquid capsule or bottle.

[0454] • The pre - stored values of the electrical characteristics are stored in an optically readable bar code on the liquid capsule or bottle.

[0455] On the other hand, there is a method of controlling the operation of a liquid delivery subsystem as part of an e - cigarette system, which includes the following steps: measuring data related to the electrical characteristics of a liquid reservoir in the e - cigarette system using a liquid level sensing subsystem; the electrical characteristics vary according to the amount or level of liquid in the liquid reservoir, and automatically controlling the fluid delivery system based on the measured data.

[0456] A capsule with liquid type data As described above, the liquid level sensing system detects changes in the electrical characteristics of the liquid reservoir, which depend on the degree to which the reservoir is filled with liquid. These electrical characteristics may also vary depending on parameters such as the type of liquid, the nicotine strength of the liquid, whether the liquid is a nicotine salt, whether the liquid contains CBD, the water content of the liquid, the PV / VG content of the liquid, and the flavor used. Therefore, if the liquid level sensing system is to operate accurately and reliably across different liquid compositions, formulations, or liquid types, the liquid level sensing system must be able to access data that defines these chemical compositions, formulations, or liquid types (more generally "liquid parameters") or is related to them. For the AYR system, we have tested every possible liquid composition, formulation, or liquid and characterized the capacitance readings in terms of the mass or weight of the liquid. Then these constants for a particular liquid composition, formulation, or liquid type are stored in a refill bottle containing the particular composition, formulation, or liquid type. The data is stored in machine - readable form, typically on a small, low - cost ROM chip.

[0457] We can summarize as follows: A capsule, bottle, or other form of container configured to engage with a fluid delivery system that automatically refills a liquid reservoir in an e - cigarette device with liquid stored in the container; When including a liquid of a chemical composition, formulation, or type in the container, the container includes machine - readable data related to or associated with the electrical characteristics of the liquid reservoir, those electrical characteristics being related to the operation of the liquid level sensing subsystem to control the fluid delivery system based on measured values of the electrical characteristics or data related to those electrical characteristics.

[0458] Some optional features: • The container includes a memory, such as a ROM chip or flash memory, that stores or encodes the electrical characteristics of a specific liquid stored in the capsule or data related to the electrical characteristics.

[0459] • The container includes an optically machine-readable code, such as a barcode, which encodes the electrical properties of a specific liquid stored in the capsule or data related to those electrical properties.

[0460] • The liquid level sensing subsystem reads pre-stored values (such as capacitance or impedance) of the electrical properties of or associated with a liquid reservoir in the vaping device, which values indicate that the liquid reservoir is full of liquid, and the liquid level sensing subsystem compares the pre-stored values with the measured electrical properties to determine whether to start or shut down the fluid delivery system.

[0461] • The electrical properties depend on the chemical composition of the liquid, and the pre-stored values are specific to a particular type, variety, or flavor of the liquid.

[0462] • The electrical properties are temperature-dependent, and the pre-stored values of the electrical properties include values at the lower and upper operating ranges of the device, such as 5 °C and 45 °C.

[0463] • The liquid level sensing subsystem compensates for or adjusts the chemical composition or formulation of each specific flavor, strength, or type of liquid.

[0464] • Each specific flavor, strength, or type of liquid is tested, and the electrical properties of each specific liquid as the mass or weight of the liquid in the liquid reservoir changes are determined and stored in a manner accessible by the liquid level sensing subsystem.

[0465] • The electrical properties measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem depend on the chemical composition of the liquid in the liquid reservoir, and specific values for a particular composition, formulation, or type of liquid are stored in a memory such as ROM or an optical barcode on a liquid refill bottle for the liquid and are accessible by the liquid level detection subsystem.

[0466] • Data values mapping the capacitance or capacitance-related data measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem at a threshold fill level for a specific liquid are stored in a refill bottle for the specific liquid and are accessible by the liquid level detection subsystem.

[0467] • Data values mapping the amount or mass of the specific liquid for the capacitance or capacitance-related data measured by the liquid level sensing subsystem at one or more thresholds or values related to the amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir are stored and accessible by the vaping system.

[0468] • The data is stored on a bottle or capsule supplying e-liquid.

[0469] • The data is stored in a serial ROM chip on the bottle or capsule.

[0470] • The data is stored in barcodes or other optically readable data.

[0471] • The electrical characteristics include temperature-related electrical characteristics that enable the liquid level subsystem to compensate for changes in the ambient temperature of the nebulizer reservoir.

[0472] • The temperature-related electrical characteristics are signals associated with the maximum liquid level or quantity of liquid in the nebulizer reservoir at the upper and lower limits of the operating temperature of the device that supplies liquid to the container.

[0473] • The liquid level sensing subsystem uses the temperature-related electrical characteristics to measure, detect, or infer the liquid level in the liquid reservoir.

[0474] • A temperature sensor measures the temperature in the device, and if the device temperature or a temperature related to the device temperature is higher than a high temperature threshold or lower than a low temperature threshold, the liquid level sensing subsystem has been locked out of operation.

Claims

1. A vaping system, comprising: An atomizer cartridge pre-filled with an atomizable liquid, and a vaping device body, wherein the cartridge includes an authentication chip or memory, and the vaping device body includes a cartridge authentication subsystem that enables the cartridge to be used with the body only when a certain cartridge standard is met; And the vaping device body further includes a wireless connection subsystem that (i) exchanges data with an application or browser running on a user's smartphone, the application or browser being connected to a web server-based age verification and cartridge usage system, and (ii) is configured to unlock the body to enable normal use of the vaping device only when the user meets the age requirements of the age verification system and the cartridge is authorized for use.

2. The vaping system according to claim 1, wherein the authentication chip or memory is a memory, a security chip or an encryption chip that stores an identifier, and the identifier enables authentication, verification or determination of the origin of the cartridge and / or the liquid therein.

3. The vaping system according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge authentication subsystem (a) determines locally or using a remote server whether the value stored in the authentication chip or memory meets the cartridge criteria and (b) allows the use of the cartridge only when those cartridge criteria and the age requirement are met.

4. The vaping system according to claim 1, wherein each time the cartridge is used or each time an inhalation is made, a counter on the authentication chip or memory is decremented, and initially the counter is set to a number corresponding to the total expected inhalations of a single pre-filled cartridge, and the cartridge authentication subsystem is configured to prevent further use of a specific cartridge once the counter drops below a set number.

5. The vaping system according to claim 1, wherein the memory uses an EEPROM emulation mode, and the emulation mode causes the counter to decrement irreversibly.

6. The vaping system according to claim 1, wherein each time an inhalation occurs, the cartridge authentication subsystem sends a signal to the authentication chip or memory on the cartridge.

7. The vaping system according to claim 1, wherein each time an inhalation occurs, the cartridge authentication subsystem causes the counter on the authentication chip or memory on the cartridge to decrement.

8. The vaping system according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge authentication subsystem reads an identifier from the authentication chip or memory on the cartridge, and the identifier enables verification or determination of the origin of the cartridge, and the wireless connection subsystem is configured to (i) send the identifier to a remote server for processing the identifier and (ii) receive a permission or rejection signal from the remote server.

9. The vaping system according to claim 1, wherein a browser automatically runs or executes a URL of an age verification system based on a web server, and the wireless connection subsystem connects to the web server via Wi-Fi.

10. The vaping system according to claim 9, wherein when the user touches an icon designed to be displayed as an application icon on a smart phone device, the browser is opened or launched to run the URL.

11. The vape system according to claim 1, wherein the vape device body includes a Wi-Fi connection module or is configured to dock with a docking base or a case including a Wi-Fi connection module.

12. The vape system according to claim 1, wherein the vape device body includes a location module, and the module sends location data to a geofencing system which determines whether the vape device body is in an area where e-cigarette smoking is permitted or in an area where e-cigarette smoking is not permitted, and sends a signal to the vape device body to lock it and prohibit its use when it is in an area where e-cigarette smoking is not permitted.

13. The vape system according to claim 12, wherein the location module is a GPS or UWB module.

14. The vape system according to claim 1, wherein the vape device body includes a receiver for listening for location-specific signals, and the vape device body locks and prohibits its use when it picks up such a signal.

15. The vape system according to claim 1, wherein the location-specific signal is a signal from a UWB beacon.

16. The vape system according to claim 1, wherein the web server-based age verification system uses one or more of the following to verify the user's age: age self-verification by the user; Age verification of the user using a linked credit card or other age-verified payment card or system; Age verification using information from the user's passport; Age verification using information from the user's social insurance or national insurance or similar records; Age verification using information from the user's driver's license; Age verification using information from one or more of the user's social media accounts; Age verification using information obtained from a behavioral analysis system.

17. A vape system, comprising: (i) A first vaping device body and a second vaping device body, each of the first vaping device body and the second vaping device body having a different shape and a different rechargeable battery capacity, and (ii) an e-liquid cartridge configured to slidably, snap-fit or fit interchangeably in each vaping device body of a different shape.

18. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the width of the shape of the first vape device body is substantially the same as the width of the e-liquid cartridge; and the battery capacity of the second vape device body is greater than the battery capacity of the first vape device body, and the shape of the second vape device body is much wider than the pre-filled e-liquid cartridge.

19. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the vape device body of the first shape requires the pre-filled e-liquid cartridge to be positioned in a recess extending along the centerline of the top surface of the vape device body; and the battery capacity of the second vape device body is greater than the first shape, and the second vape device body is configured to require the e-liquid cartridge to be positioned in a recess on one side of the top surface of the second vape device body.

20. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the first shape of the vape device body is a rectangular strip shape; And the battery capacity of the second vape device body is greater than that of the first shape, and the second vape device body is much wider than the first vape device body.

21. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein each shape of the vape device body is generally rectangular.

22. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the vape device body includes a USB charging port.

23. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the e-liquid cartridge is configured to magnetically latch to the first vape device body and the second vape device body.

24. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the e-liquid cartridge includes a mouthpiece and a cartridge body, and the cartridge body is configured to slide into and out of a recess in the first vape device body and the second vape device body, and the cartridge body is longer than the mouthpiece.

25. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the e-liquid cartridge includes a cartridge body, and the cartridge body is configured to slide into a recess with curved sides in the first vape device body and the second vape device body, and the cartridge body has corresponding curved sides.

26. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the e-liquid cartridge includes an e-liquid reservoir surrounding a heating atomizer, and the heating atomizer is located in a unit extending centrally upward along the long axis of the cartridge.

27. The vape system according to claim 26, wherein the unit extending centrally upward along the long axis of the cartridge includes a pair of opposite holes; And a wick is positioned to receive e-liquid through these holes and supply e-liquid to the heating atomizer.

28. The vape system according to claim 26, wherein the unit extending centrally upward along the long axis of the cartridge includes concentric outer and inner walls, the outer wall facing the e-liquid reservoir, and the inner wall containing the atomizer.

29. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the cartridge includes a heating atomizer located at a position about 20 - 25 mm above the base of the cartridge.

30. The vape system according to claim 17, wherein the e-liquid cartridge is configured to be pre-filled with liquid at the factory or user-refillable.

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