Aerosol supply device comprising optical sensor

Abstract

An aerosol supply device is configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol supply device includes a light sensor, a light guide, and a processor. The light guide is configured to receive a light signal from the article and transmit the light signal to the light sensor. The light sensor is configured to receive a light signal from the light guide. The processor is configured to determine article information from a characteristic of the light signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol supply device, an aerosol supply system, and an article thereof. Background Technology

[0002] Smoked products (such as cigarettes, cigars, etc.) burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Efforts have been made to provide alternatives to these products that release compounds without combustion. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases compounds by heating rather than burning the material. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect, an aerosol supply device is provided, configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device including a light sensor, a light guide, and a processor, wherein the light guide is configured to receive an optical signal from the article and transmit the optical signal to the light sensor, and wherein the light sensor is configured to receive the optical signal from the light guide, and the processor is configured to determine article information based on the characteristics of the optical signal.

[0004] The light guide can extend between the product and the light sensor.

[0005] An optical guide can change the direction of an optical signal.

[0006] An optical guide can transmit optical signals in the longitudinal direction of the device.

[0007] An optical guide can transmit optical signals along the path between the product and the optical sensor.

[0008] The path can be determined by the geometry of the optical guide.

[0009] The optical sensor can be arranged perpendicular to the light guide.

[0010] The optical sensor can be arranged to be oriented along the same axis as the optical guide.

[0011] The aerosol supply device may include a heated chamber, with a light sensor positioned at the distal end of the heated chamber, away from the nozzle end of the aerosol supply device.

[0012] The optical sensor can be positioned away from the nozzle of the aerosol supply device.

[0013] Product information may include the existence of the product.

[0014] Product information may include the type of product.

[0015] Product information can include the product's certification status.

[0016] A light sensor can be a color sensor.

[0017] The light sensor can be an infrared sensor.

[0018] The light sensor can be an analog camera.

[0019] The light sensor can be a digital camera.

[0020] The aerosol supply device may also include a light source for sending a light signal to the article, wherein the light signal is provided to the sensor by reflection of the light signal transmitted from the light source to the article.

[0021] The light guide can also be configured to guide light signals from the light source to the workpiece.

[0022] The aerosol supply device may also include a second light guide configured to guide an optical signal from the light source to the article.

[0023] The light source can be positioned adjacent to the nozzle of the aerosol supply device.

[0024] The light source can be positioned adjacent to the light sensor.

[0025] A light sensor can be an image sensor.

[0026] The length of the light guide can range from 1 mm to 50 mm. The length of the light guide can be approximately 1 mm to 12 mm.

[0027] Light guides can have a transparency greater than 32%. Light guides can have a transparency of 10% or higher, 20% or higher, 25% or higher, 30% or higher, or 40% or higher.

[0028] An optical guide can concentrate an optical signal to provide an amplified signal to an optical sensor.

[0029] The aerosol supply device may include a first part and a second part, which are separable at the boundary between the first part and the second part.

[0030] The optical signal can pass through the boundary between the first and second parts of the aerosol supply device before being received by the optical sensor.

[0031] The light guide is arranged to span the boundary between the first and second parts of the aerosol supply device.

[0032] The light guide can be ring-shaped to receive reflected light from the article around the inner surface of the light guide.

[0033] The light guide may include an endoscope, which includes an optical fiber for receiving optical signals from the workpiece and transmitting the optical signals to a light sensor.

[0034] The characteristics of an optical signal can depend on the identifiers placed on the article.

[0035] The identifier may include multiple colored parts.

[0036] Multiple colored components can be arranged into a color matrix that includes red, green, and blue (RBG) components.

[0037] A matrix can include three rows and three columns.

[0038] The aerosol supply device may also include a product sensor arranged to detect the insertion of a product into the aerosol supply device.

[0039] According to a second aspect, an article comprising an aerosol-generating material is provided, the article further comprising an indicator portion.

[0040] The indicator section can reflect a first light signal to provide a reflected light signal indicating information about the product.

[0041] According to a third aspect, an aerosol supply device is provided, configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, the aerosol supply device including a camera and a processor, wherein the camera is configured to capture an image of a portion of the article and transmit the image to the processor, and the processor is configured to determine article information based on characteristics of the image.

[0042] The camera can be a digital camera.

[0043] The camera can be an analog camera.

[0044] The camera can be positioned close to the nozzle of the aerosol supply device.

[0045] The camera can be positioned away from the nozzle of the aerosol supply device.

[0046] The aerosol supply device may also include a light source.

[0047] The light source can communicate with the camera.

[0048] The light source can be configured to transmit light synchronously when the camera is activated.

[0049] The light source can be positioned adjacent to the camera.

[0050] The light source can be positioned away from the camera.

[0051] The light source can be an LED.

[0052] Product information may include the existence of the product.

[0053] Product information may include the type of product.

[0054] Product information includes the product's certification status.

[0055] The processor can be configured to authenticate an article in response to determining article information from an image.

[0056] The processor can be configured to select the heating period in response to identifying product information from an image.

[0057] The processor can be configured to communicate with a second device external to the aerosol supply device.

[0058] The second device can be configured to display product information to the user.

[0059] The aerosol supply device may also include a product sensor arranged to detect the insertion of a product into the aerosol supply device.

[0060] The product sensor can be configured to transmit signals to the camera.

[0061] The camera is activated in response to a signal received by the camera indicating that the article has been inserted into the aerosol supply device.

[0062] The product sensor can be placed at the nozzle of the aerosol supply device.

[0063] Product sensors may include Hall effect sensors.

[0064] Product sensors can include mechanical sensors.

[0065] Product sensors can include optical sensors.

[0066] Product sensors can include laser sensors.

[0067] Product sensors may include cameras.

[0068] According to a fourth aspect, a system is provided, including an aerosol supply device and an article of manufacture as described in the first or third aspect, wherein the article of manufacture includes a marked portion.

[0069] The tag can include a QR code.

[0070] The label may include a barcode.

[0071] The marker can include a color matrix.

[0072] The marker can include multiple colored sections.

[0073] Multiple colored components can be arranged into a color matrix that includes red, green, and blue (RBG) components.

[0074] A matrix can include three rows and three columns.

[0075] According to a fifth aspect, a method for operating an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: receiving a signal including an article identifier at a sensor receiver; and, upon receiving the signal, assigning a flag to the article identifier, wherein the flag indicates that an article associated with the article identifier has been used.

[0076] The method may also include: determining whether a flag has been assigned to the article identifier.

[0077] The method may include: if it is determined that a flag indicating that an article associated with the article identifier has been used has been assigned to the article identifier, then preventing the operation of the heating component in the aerosol supply device.

[0078] The sensor receiver may include a camera configured to receive an article identifier.

[0079] Product identifiers may include QR codes.

[0080] Product identifiers may include barcodes.

[0081] The signal may also include product information.

[0082] Product information may include the type of product.

[0083] Product information can include the product's certification status.

[0084] The method may include applying a specific operating mode for a specific usage period in response to the characteristics of the identified product information.

[0085] The method may also include: connecting to an external processor and / or storage device via Bluetooth, and assigning a flag at the external processor and / or storage device.

[0086] According to a sixth aspect, an aerosol supply system is provided, including an aerosol supply device and an article comprising an aerosol generating material, wherein the aerosol supply device is configured to receive at least a portion of the article, the aerosol supply device includes a sensor configured to receive a signal including an article identifier, and the aerosol supply system includes a processor configured to determine article information based on the signal, wherein the processor is further configured to assign a flag to the article identifier to indicate that the article associated with the identifier has been used.

[0087] The processor can also be configured to determine whether a flag has been assigned to the artifact identifier.

[0088] The processor can be configured to prevent the operation of the aerosol supply device if the article identifier has been assigned a flag indicating that the article associated with the identifier has been used.

[0089] The sensor may include a camera arranged to receive signals including an article identifier.

[0090] The sensor can be positioned away from the nozzle of the aerosol supply device.

[0091] The processor can be configured to assign additional article information to the article identifier.

[0092] Additional product information may include a digital signature.

[0093] Digital signatures can include artifact information.

[0094] Digital signatures can include the type of artifact.

[0095] Product information can include the product's certification status.

[0096] The aerosol supply device may also include a product sensor arranged to detect the insertion of a product into the aerosol supply device.

[0097] The product sensor can be placed at the nozzle of the aerosol supply device.

[0098] Product sensors may include Hall effect sensors.

[0099] Product sensors can include mechanical sensors.

[0100] Product sensors can include optical sensors.

[0101] Product sensors can include laser sensors.

[0102] Product sensors may include cameras.

[0103] The features or optional features described above may be combined or included in a system of aerosol supply apparatus, article, method or any other aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0104] The implementation will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0105] Figure 1 A side view of the aerosol supply system is shown.

[0106] Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the product is shown;

[0107] Figure 3 A cross-sectional side view of the aerosol supply system is shown;

[0108] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device including a light guide is shown;

[0109] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device including a camera is shown; and

[0110] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating an aerosol supply system is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0111] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" is a material capable of generating aerosols, for example, when powered by heating, irradiation, or any other means. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. Aerosol-generating materials may include any plant-based material, such as tobacco-containing materials, and may include, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating materials may also include other non-tobacco products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. Aerosol-generating materials may also be, for example, a combination or mixture of materials. Aerosol-generating materials may also be referred to as "inhalable materials."

[0112] Aerosol-generating materials may include binders and aerosol-forming agents. Optionally, active substances and / or fillers may also be present. Optionally, a solvent (such as water) may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may be soluble in the solvent or insoluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0113] Aerosol-generating materials may include or may be "amorphous solids". Amorphous solids may be "monolithic solids". In some embodiments, amorphous solids may be dry gels. Amorphous solids are solid materials that can retain some fluid (such as liquid) within them. In some embodiments, aerosol-generating materials may, for example, include from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% amorphous solids to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% amorphous solids.

[0114] Aerosol-generating materials may include aerosol-generating membranes. Aerosol-generating membranes may include sheets or sheets that may optionally be pulverized to form pulverized sheets. Aerosol-generating sheets or pulverized sheets may be substantially tobacco-free.

[0115] According to this disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the aerosol generating material is non-flammable or non-ignitable, thereby enabling the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0116] In some implementations, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as an electrically powered non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0117] In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vapor device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END); however, it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not necessary.

[0118] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heated non-combustible system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0119] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a mixing system for generating aerosols using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be in, for example, solid, liquid, or gel form, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the mixing system includes liquid or gel aerosol-generating materials and solid aerosol-generating materials. Solid aerosol-generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0120] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0121] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles in this disclosure.

[0122] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system (such as its non-flammable aerosol supply device) may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power source or a heat source. In some embodiments, the heat source includes a carbon matrix that can be powered to distribute energy in the form of heat to the aerosol-generating material or heat transfer material adjacent to the heat source.

[0123] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include an area for containing consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0124] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, aerosol generating material storage area, aerosol generating material conveying component, aerosol generator, aerosol generating area, housing, packaging paper, filter, nozzle, and / or aerosol modifier.

[0125] Aerosol generating apparatus can receive articles comprising aerosol generating material for heating. In this context, an "article" is a component that includes or contains aerosol generating material when in use, and is heated during use to atomize the aerosol generating material and optionally other components. A user can insert the article into the aerosol generating apparatus before it is heated to generate an aerosol, and the user subsequently inhales the aerosol. The article may, for example, have a predetermined or specific size, configured to be placed within the heating chamber of an apparatus sized to receive the article.

[0126] refer to Figure 1 The aerosol supply system 10 includes an aerosol supply device 100 for generating aerosols from aerosol generating materials. The aerosol supply system 10 also includes a replaceable article 110, which includes the aerosol generating materials. In general, the aerosol forming device 100 can be used to heat the article 110 to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium to be inhaled by a user of the device 100.

[0127] The aerosol forming apparatus 100 includes a main body 102. A housing assembly surrounds and accommodates various components of the main body 102. An article opening 104 is formed at one end of the main body 102 through which an article 110 can be inserted for heating by an aerosol generator 200, which will be discussed below. Figure 3 The article describes the process. An opening 104 is formed at the nozzle end of the device.

[0128] The device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 150, such as a button or switch, that operates the device 100 when pressed. For example, a user can turn on the device 100 by operating the switch 150.

[0129] The aerosol generator 200 defines a longitudinal axis 152, which is aligned with the axis of the article 110.

[0130] In use, the article 110 can be fully or partially inserted into the aerosol generator 200, in which the article can be heated by one or more components of the aerosol generator 200.

[0131] Apparatus 100 includes a device for heating an aerosol-generating material. The device includes an aerosol-generating assembly, a controller (control circuitry), and a power source. The device forms part of a main body 102. The aerosol-generating assembly is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material of an article 110 inserted through an article opening 104, such that an aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating material. The power source supplies electricity to the aerosol-generating assembly, and the aerosol-generating assembly converts the supplied electrical energy into heat energy for heating the aerosol-generating material. The power source may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries.

[0132] A power source can be electrically connected to the aerosol generating assembly to supply electricity, when needed and under the control of the controller, to heat the aerosol generating material. The control circuitry can be configured to activate and deactivate the aerosol generating assembly based on user input. User input can be achieved by pressing a button or opening a door of the device (e.g., a door covering the receptacle). The control circuitry can be configured to activate and deactivate automatically, for example, when inserting an article.

[0133] Aerosol generation assemblies may include various components that heat aerosol-generating materials via an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating a conductive heating element (such as a sensor) through electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may include an inductive element (e.g., one or more sensor coils) and means for passing a changing current (such as alternating current) through the inductive element. The changing current in the inductive element generates a changing magnetic field. The changing magnetic field penetrates the sensor (heating element) appropriately positioned relative to the inductive element and generates eddy currents within the sensor. The sensor has resistance to the eddy currents, and therefore the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance causes the sensor to be heated by Joule heating. In cases where the sensor comprises a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by hysteresis losses in the sensor, i.e., by the changing orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material due to their alignment with the changing magnetic field. In induction heating, heat is generated within the sensor compared to heating, for example, by conduction, thus allowing for rapid heating. Furthermore, no physical contact is required between the inductive element and the sensor, thus allowing for increased freedom in construction and application.

[0134] refer to Figure 2 Article 110 includes an identifier 113. The identifier 113 may be arranged as part of an indicator portion 112. The identifier 113 and / or the indicator portion 112 include markings indicating article information. Article information includes the type of article 110, such as flavoring, strength, certification status, and / or the size of article 110. Article 110 includes aerosol-generating materials (… Figure 2 (Not shown in the image).

[0135] Indicator portion 112 and / or identifier 113 are located on the outer surface 114 of article 110. The outer surface 114 may be formed of paper, on which indicator portion 112 and / or identifier 113 are printed. Indicator portion 112 is a strip surrounding article 110. Indicator portion 112 surrounds article 110. As described in more detail below, indicator portion 112 may be a colored area reflecting a light signal.

[0136] In one embodiment, identifier 113 may be omitted and only indicator portion 112 may be provided. In another embodiment, the indicator portion may include a plurality of colored strips wrapped around the outer surface 114 of the article 110.

[0137] In one embodiment, identifier 113 is disposed on the outer surface 114 of article 110 and located on any part of article 110. Identifier 113 may include multiple colored portions. The colored portions may be arranged as a color matrix including red, green, and blue (RGB) portions. The matrix may include three rows and three columns.

[0138] In implementation methods, the markings include QR codes or barcodes.

[0139] refer to Figure 3 A portion of the article 110 is received in the receiving section 106 of the aerosol supply device 100. The receiving section 106 is a cylindrical chamber extending from the article opening 104 into the body 102. The article 110 is inserted into the receiving section 106 through the opening 104, such that the identifier 113 and / or the indicator portion 112 is positioned within the receiving section 106. The receiving section 160 is defined by a wall 108.

[0140] The aerosol supply device 100 includes an aerosol generator 200. The aerosol generator 200 is a heating assembly. The aerosol generator 200 includes an inductive element 202. The inductive element 202 is an inductive coil (also referred to as a "heating coil") surrounding a receiving portion 106. The aerosol generator 200 includes a sensor element 108, which in this embodiment is a wall 108. Therefore, the receiving portion 106 defines a heating chamber for the device 100.

[0141] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a light sensor 120 and a light guide 130. The first end of the light guide 130 is positioned near the identifier 113 of the article.

[0142] In this embodiment, the light sensor 120 is positioned at the distal end of the heating chamber 106, away from the nozzle of the aerosol supply device 100. This is advantageous because the greatest condensation and heating that could affect the operation of the light sensor 120 occurs at the nozzle of the device 100.

[0143] refer to Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply device 100 and a product 110 is shown. The product 110 is inserted through a product opening positioned within a heating chamber 106 defined by a wall 108. A light guide 130 has a first end 132 positioned adjacent to the wall 108. A second end of the light guide 130 is adjacent to a photosensor 120. The light guide 130 extends longitudinally along the device from the product 110 to the photosensor 120. The light guide defines a path between the product 110 and the photosensor 120.

[0144] The light source 122 is positioned adjacent to the product identifier 113. The light source 120 can be, for example, an LED.

[0145] The light guide 130 has a length of at least 1 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, or at least 40 mm.

[0146] In an implementation, the light guide may have a length of less than 10 mm, less than 12 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 40 mm, or less than 50 mm.

[0147] In this implementation, the light guide may have a length greater than 50 mm.

[0148] The light guide has a transparency of 32% or higher. In embodiments, the light guide may have a transparency greater than 37%, greater than 53%, greater than 66%, greater than 82%, or greater than 91%.

[0149] In this implementation, the light guide may have a transparency of less than 32%.

[0150] In implementation, the light guide may have a transparency of 10% or higher, 20% or higher, 25% or higher, 30% or higher, or 40% or higher.

[0151] When in use, the light source 122 is activated and transmits light signals toward the product 110.

[0152] The reflected light signal is reflected back by the indicator 113 on the article 110. The reflected light signal is received at the first end 132 of the light guide 130. The reflected light signal is transmitted from its first end 132 to its second end 134 through the light guide 130.

[0153] The reflected light signal exits from the light guide 130 at its second end 134. The second end 134 of the light guide is oriented parallel to the light sensor 120. The reflected light signal is received by the light sensor 120. The light guide 130 concentrates the reflected light signal to provide an amplified light signal to the light sensor.

[0154] In one embodiment, the optical sensor is oriented along the same axis as the light guide. Orientation along the same axis can mean that the optical sensor is configured to receive light propagating along that axis, light parallel to that axis, or light having a component parallel to that axis. In another embodiment, the optical sensor is oriented perpendicular to the light guide. Orientation perpendicular to the light guide can mean that the optical sensor is configured to receive light emitted from the light guide perpendicular to its transmission path.

[0155] The aerosol supply device 100 also includes a processor (not shown). The processor receives information from the light sensor 120 and is configured to determine article information based on the characteristics of the light signal.

[0156] The processor is also configured to perform specific actions on the aerosol generating device. For example, when the processor determines that the article indicator 113 includes a specific color, the processor can control the aerosol supply device 100 to unlock. In another example, the processor can determine the presence of an article to initiate a usage period. In other examples, the processor can determine the type of consumable based on article information, and in response, the processor can control the aerosol supply device 100 to operate in a predetermined mode corresponding to a predetermined heating profile.

[0157] A product sensor 140 may be further disposed in the aerosol supply device 100, facing the opening. The product sensor 140 is located near the product opening 104 at the nozzle end of the device 100. The product sensor 140 is arranged to detect the insertion of the product 110 into the aerosol supply device.

[0158] The article sensor 140 communicates with the processor. In response to the article sensor 140 communicating to the processor that the article 110 has been inserted into the receiver 106, the processor is configured to control the activation of the light source 112.

[0159] The article sensor 140 may be a mechanical sensor, including a physical component (such as a trigger or button) that is displaced when the article 110 is inserted into the receiving section 106. In response to the displacement of the physical component, the sensor communicates to the processor that the article 110 has been inserted into the receiving section 106.

[0160] In one embodiment, the article sensor may be an interrupt sensor comprising a light source and a light receiver. The light source may be arranged on the side of the receiving section 106 opposite to the light receiver. The light source is configured to emit a constant light beam, which is received by the light receiver. When the article 110 is inserted into the receiving section 106, the light beam is blocked. The light received by the light receiver is interrupted, and the sensor communicates to the processor that the article 110 has been inserted into the receiving section 106. Alternatively, the interrupt sensor may be replaced by a laser sensor, which comprises a laser source and a laser receiver and operates in substantially the same manner.

[0161] In one embodiment, the article sensor may include a Hall sensor that senses when an article, including a metal component, has been inserted into the receiving section. In another embodiment, the article sensor may include a camera-type sensor for detecting insertion.

[0162] In this implementation, the activation of the light source and the light sensor is independent of the article sensor. For example, the light source can be activated in response to user input.

[0163] In some embodiments, the path defined by the light guide 130 may be different. For example, the path may be straight at the second end 132. The light guide may be wound around the receiving portion 106.

[0164] In one embodiment, the second end of the light guide may be disposed at the nozzle end of the device. The aerosol supply device may be provided as a two-part device, comprising a first boundary and a second boundary separable at the boundary between a first part and a second part. An article may be inserted into a heating chamber extending through the boundaries and into the first and second parts. An indicator portion is disposed to be received in the first part. A light source is disposed in the first part of the aerosol supply device. A light sensor is disposed in the second part of the aerosol supply device. The reflected light signal crosses the boundary between the first and second parts of the aerosol supply device before being received by the light sensor. The light guide is configured to extend through the boundary between the first and second parts of the aerosol supply device to guide the light signal to the light sensor.

[0165] In one embodiment, the light guide is ring-shaped to receive reflected light from the article around its inner surface. The light guide is then configured to transmit the reflected light to a photosensor.

[0166] In this implementation, an additional light guide may be provided. This additional light guide extends from the light source to the article identifier. In use, the additional light guide transmits light from the light source to a specific portion of the article including the article identifier.

[0167] In one embodiment, wall 108 includes a semi-transparent portion adjacent to the first end of light guide 130, and the light guide and light sensor are positioned outside the heating chamber.

[0168] Optical sensors can be of different types, such as image sensors, optical sensors, or infrared (IR) sensors.

[0169] In one embodiment, the light guide includes a visible probe. The visible probe includes an optical fiber for receiving optical signals from the article and transmitting the optical signals to a photosensitive sensor.

[0170] refer to Figure 4Furthermore, according to another aspect, the aerosol supply device 300 may include a camera 310 instead of a light sensor. The aerosol supply device includes a processor (not shown). In an embodiment, the camera 320 is a digital camera.

[0171] As in the previous embodiments, article 310 is inserted into heating chamber 306. Heating chamber 306 is defined by wall 308. Article 310 includes identifier 312. Identifier 312 is an image. In embodiments, the identifier may be one or more of a simple image object, a QR code, a color matrix (e.g., an RGB matrix), a flashing code, or a color code.

[0172] Camera 320 is configured to capture an image of at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article 310, including identifier 312. Camera 320 is configured to transmit a digital signature of the captured image to a processor.

[0173] The camera 320 is positioned close to the nozzle of the aerosol supply device to minimize interference from condensation. In another embodiment, the camera may be positioned further away from the nozzle of the device.

[0174] The processor receives a digital signature from the camera 320 and is configured to determine article information from the image. Article information may include one or more of the following: the existence of the article, the type of the article, and / or the certification status of the article.

[0175] The processor can also be configured to authenticate a product in response to determining product information from an image, and / or select a heating period in response to recognizing product information from an image.

[0176] The aerosol supply device 300 is also equipped with a product sensor 340. The product sensor 340 operates in substantially the same manner as the product sensor 140 described above.

[0177] A light source 322, configured to emit light toward the article 310, is also positioned adjacent to the camera 320. The light source 322 may be an LED. The light source 322 communicates with the camera 320. The light source 322 is configured to transmit light synchronously when the camera 320 is activated.

[0178] In use, the article sensor 340 detects that the article 310 has been inserted into the aerosol supply device 100. In response to the article sensor 340 communicating to the processor that the article 310 has been inserted into the receiving unit 206, the processor is configured to control the synchronous activation of the light source 312 and the camera 320.

[0179] In this implementation, the activation of the light source and the light sensor is independent of the article sensor. For example, the light source can be activated in response to user input.

[0180] In one implementation, the light source can be positioned away from the camera. A light guide can be positioned between the light source and the article to direct the light signal toward the identifier.

[0181] In this implementation, a simulated camera is provided. When a simulated camera is provided, the identifier 312 on the article 310 can be one or more of a simple image object, a QR code, a color matrix, a flashing code, or a color code. The color matrix can include a grid of nine color portions, such as a 3×3 matrix. The color matrix can be an RGB matrix. Various colors and grid arrangements can be used.

[0182] In one embodiment, the processor may be connected to a second device located outside the aerosol supply device. The second device is configured to display product information to a user in a user interface. The second device may also be configured to control the processor of the aerosol supply device via user input to the user interface.

[0183] According to another aspect, the aerosol supply device 100 can be as follows: Figure 6 The operation is performed as shown in the flowchart. The method may include any of the features or functional steps described above.

[0184] In the first step 200, the article 110 is inserted into the aerosol supply device 100 such that at least a portion of the article 110, including the indicator portion 112 or the identifier 113, is received in the receiving portion 106 of the device 100.

[0185] At step 210, the article sensor 140 detects the insertion and communicates to the processor that the article 110 has been inserted into the receiving unit 106.

[0186] In response, the processor activates the light source 112. At step 220, the light source emits a light signal toward the article 110. The reflected light signal is reflected back by the indicator portion 112 or the identifier 113. The reflected light signal includes article information.

[0187] At step 230, the light sensor 120 receives the reflected light signal, and at step 240, the processor determines the product information.

[0188] At step 250, the processor assigns a flag to the article identifier to indicate that the article associated with the identifier has been used.

[0189] The processor also determines, based on the article information, whether a flag has been assigned to the article. At step 260, if it is determined that a flag indicating that the article associated with the article identifier has been used has been previously assigned to the article identifier, operation of the aerosol supply device is prevented.

[0190] In one implementation, a specific operating mode can be initiated for a specific usage period in response to the characteristics of the identified product information. For example, the usage period can operate in an enhanced mode in response to the characteristics of the product information. In another implementation, a personalized usage period suitable for the type of product identified by the processor can be initiated.

[0191] In this implementation, any aerosol delivery device can be connected to an external processor and / or storage device via Bluetooth. The external processor and / or storage device may include a user interface, such as an application. In this implementation, a flag is assigned at the external processor and / or storage device.

[0192] In the embodiments described above, the aerosol supply device includes a heating device, which is an induction heating device. In other embodiments, other types of heating devices, such as resistance heating, are used. The general construction of the device is as described above, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted. In such an arrangement, the aerosol generating assembly includes a resistance heating generator comprising components that heat the heating element via a resistance heating process. In this case, current is applied directly to the resistance heating component, and the flow of current generated in the heating component causes the heating component to be heated by Joule heating. The resistance heating component includes a resistive material configured to generate heat when a suitable current passes through it, and the heating assembly includes electrical contacts for supplying current to the resistive material.

[0193] In one embodiment, the heating element itself forms a resistance heating component. In another embodiment, the resistance heating component transfers heat to the heating element, for example, through conduction.

[0194] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of implementation and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, implementations, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on its equivalents, and other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or substantially consist of suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply device configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material, the aerosol supply device comprising a light sensor, a light guide, and a processor, wherein: The light guide is configured to receive an optical signal from the article and transmit the optical signal to the optical sensor; The optical sensor is configured to receive the optical signal from the optical guide, and the processor is configured to determine product information based on the characteristics of the optical signal.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The light guide extends between the article and the light sensor.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The light guide transmits the optical signal along the path between the product and the optical sensor.

4. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein, The path is determined by the geometry of the optical guide.

5. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol supply device includes a heating chamber, and the optical sensor is positioned at the distal end of the heating chamber, away from the nozzle end of the aerosol supply device.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The product information includes one or more of the following: the existence of the product, the type of the product, and / or the certification status of the product.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The optical sensor is one of a color sensor, an infrared sensor, or an image sensor.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The light sensor is an analog camera.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The light sensor is a digital camera.

10. The aerosol supply device according to any preceding claim further includes a light source, the light source being used to emit a light signal toward the article, wherein, The optical signal is provided to the sensor by reflection of the optical signal emitted from the light source to the article.

11. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The length of the light guide is approximately between 1 mm and 50 mm, and optionally, the length of the light guide is between 1 mm and 12 mm.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The light guide has at least 32% transparency.

13. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims further includes a second light guide configured to guide the light signal from the light source to the article.

14. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol supply device includes a first part and a second part, which are separable at the boundary between the first part and the second part.

15. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The optical signal crosses the boundary between the first and second parts of the aerosol supply device before being received by the optical sensor.

16. The aerosol supply device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The light guide is arranged to span the boundary between the first and second portions of the aerosol supply device.

17. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The light guide is ring-shaped to receive reflected light from the article around its inner surface.

18. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The light guide includes a visual probe, which includes an optical fiber for receiving optical signals from the article and transmitting the optical signals to the optical sensor.

19. The aerosol supply device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The characteristics of the optical signal depend on the identifier arranged on the article.

20. The aerosol supply device according to claim 19, wherein, The identifier includes one or more of a plurality of color portions, wherein the plurality of color portions are arranged in a color matrix including red, green, and blue (RBG) portions, and wherein the matrix includes three rows and three columns.

Images