Aerosol supply device comprising rotatable control interface

Abstract

An aerosol supply device includes: a controller configured to control operation of the aerosol supply device; and a control interface comprising an input component configured to receive an input, where the input component is an index dial configured to be rotatable by a user between a plurality of discrete positions to provide the input, where the control interface is configured to provide input data corresponding to the input to the controller, where the input component is configured to receive the input, where the index dial is configured to be rotatable by the user between a plurality of discrete positions to provide the input. The controller is configured to: receive input data; in response to receiving the input data, determining whether the input passes a predetermined test; and in response to determining that the input passes the predetermined test, switching from controlling operation of the aerosol supply device according to the first mode to controlling operation of the aerosol supply device according to the second mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol supply system, an aerosol supply device, and a method for generating steam. Background Technology

[0002] The operation of a delivery system, such as an aerosol supply system, can be controlled by a controller. A delivery system may include a housing, a memory, a controller configured to control the operation of the delivery system, a control interface for receiving inputs from the delivery system and providing outputs from the delivery system, and a power supply configured to supply power for the operation of the delivery system. The delivery system may also include an aerosol generator configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-generating material, which may be in liquid, solid, or gel form. The operation of the delivery system can be controlled by a controller included in the delivery system, or by a controller of another device whose communication circuitry of the delivery system's control interface is configured to be connected to and communicate data with it. For example, the other device may send data including instructions for performing control actions to the delivery system's communication circuitry. The operation of the delivery system can be controlled by a distributed system that includes the delivery system and one or more other devices, such as an external power supply and / or a computing device, that together control the operation of the delivery system. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: The controller is configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device; and The control interface includes an input component configured to receive input, wherein the input component is an index dial configured to be rotated by a user between multiple discrete positions to provide input. The control interface is configured to provide input data corresponding to the input to the controller. The controller is configured as follows: Receive input data; In response to receiving input data, determine whether the input has passed a predetermined test; and In response to the determination that the input has passed a predetermined test, the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the first mode is switched to the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the second mode.

[0004] The index dial can have different values ​​associated with each discrete position.

[0005] The input component also includes buttons, wherein the input data includes multiple discrete positions where the dial is reached and the buttons are pressed.

[0006] A dial may include a button. A dial may include a rotatable component. A button may include a linearly actuated component. A dial may surround a button.

[0007] The input component can be configured to receive codes.

[0008] This input can be generated by the local computing device.

[0009] In the first mode, a specific function of the aerosol supply device is disabled, while in the second mode, that specific function is enabled. This specific function may include the aerosol supply device's ability to generate aerosols.

[0010] Pre-defined tests can indicate that the user has been verified as an appropriate user.

[0011] The aerosol supply device may include an identifier. Pre-defined testing may include determining that information in the input is associated with the identifier of the aerosol supply device.

[0012] To determine whether the input passes a predetermined test, the controller can be configured to determine whether to use the identifier generation information of the aerosol supply device.

[0013] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information is generated using the identifier of the aerosol supply device by determining whether predetermined software functions are applied to the identifier to generate the information.

[0014] To determine whether the input passes a predetermined test, the controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by an authorized computing device.

[0015] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by an authorized computing device by testing whether the information is cryptographically associated with a first key of the aerosol supply device.

[0016] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by the authorized computing device by testing whether the corresponding second key (which is the private key) of the authorized computing device was used to generate the information by using a first key (which is the public key) of the aerosol supply device.

[0017] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by an authorized computing device by using a first key (which is a private key) of the aerosol supply device, and to test whether the information includes a corresponding second key of the authorized computing device that matches the first key.

[0018] The control interface may include one or more output components configured to provide output to a user, and / or communication circuitry configured to send output to another device.

[0019] The controller can be configured to: when controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a first mode, and in response to receiving input data from the control interface corresponding to an instruction for performing a control action disabled in the first mode, cause the control interface to provide an alarm output indicating that user verification as an appropriate user of the aerosol supply device is required.

[0020] After switching to control the operation of the aerosol supply device according to the second mode, the controller can be configured to continue controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to the second mode.

[0021] After switching to operation of the aerosol supply device according to the second mode, the controller can be configured to switch back to operation of the aerosol supply device according to the first mode in response to the passage of a time period or to receiving input data from the control interface corresponding to the instruction to switch from the first mode to the second mode. After switching back to operation of the aerosol supply device according to the first mode, the controller is configured to switch back to operation of the aerosol supply device according to the second mode in response to determining that an input has passed a predetermined test. Each input that passes the predetermined test is different from the previous input that passed the predetermined test.

[0022] The identifier can be a unique identifier for the aerosol supply device.

[0023] The aerosol supply device may include a memory in which an identifier is stored.

[0024] The aerosol supply device may include an identifier portion that represents an identifier.

[0025] The aerosol supply device may include a housing, wherein a marking portion is disposed on the housing.

[0026] This identifier can be readable by the user and / or the local computing device.

[0027] The identifier portion may include optical code, within which a unique identifier is encoded.

[0028] The identifier portion may include text, wherein the identifier is readable from the text by the user.

[0029] The index dial can be positioned at the end of the aerosol supply device. The aerosol supply device may include a body. The index dial may substantially conform to the cross-sectional shape of the body.

[0030] The aerosol supply device may be a standalone aerosol supply device, not configured to receive consumables including aerosol-generating materials.

[0031] The aerosol supply device may include a reservoir for storing aerosol-generating materials. The aerosol-generating materials may be liquids.

[0032] The aerosol supply device may be a non-rechargeable, single-piece aerosol supply device, excluding a charging interface for receiving power from an external power source.

[0033] The aerosol supply device may not be configured to communicate wirelessly with external devices.

[0034] According to a second aspect, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: the aforementioned aerosol supply device; and consumables including aerosol generating materials.

[0035] According to a third aspect, a system is provided, comprising: the aforementioned aerosol supply device; and a further device configured to transmit input to a user, allowing the user to provide input to an input component.

[0036] The additional device could be a local computing device.

[0037] The local computing device can be configured to receive input from an authorized computing device.

[0038] The system may include an authorized computing device. The authorized computing device may be configured to generate input in response to receiving a mode switching request including an identifier of an aerosol supply device, and to send the input to another device.

[0039] According to a fourth aspect, a controller is provided, configured to control the operation of an aerosol supply device, wherein the controller is configured to: receive input data from a control interface of the aerosol supply device, the input data corresponding to input received by an input component of the control interface, wherein the input component is an index dial configured to be rotatable by a user between a plurality of discrete positions to provide input; determine whether the input passes a predetermined test in response to receiving the input data; and switch from controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a first mode to controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a second mode in response to determining that the input passes the predetermined test.

[0040] To determine whether an input passes a predetermined test, the controller can be configured to generate information including whether an aerosol supply device is used in the input.

[0041] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information is generated by using an aerosol supply device by determining whether the information is generated by applying predetermined software functions to the identifier.

[0042] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated using the identifier of the aerosol supply device by testing whether a first key of the aerosol supply device matches a second key, the second key being a pass key included in the information input.

[0043] To determine whether the input passes a predetermined test, the controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by an authorized computing device.

[0044] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by an authorized computing device by testing whether the information is cryptographically associated with a first key of the aerosol supply device.

[0045] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by the authorized computing device by testing whether the corresponding second key (which is the private key) of the authorized computing device was used to generate the information by using a first key (which is the public key) of the aerosol supply device.

[0046] The controller can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by an authorized computing device by using a first key (which is a private key) of the aerosol supply device, and to test whether the information includes a corresponding second key of the authorized computing device that matches the first key.

[0047] According to a fifth aspect, a method for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: providing an aerosol supply device and a controller configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device; detecting input by an input component of a control interface of the aerosol supply device, wherein the input component is an index dial configured to be rotatable by a user between a plurality of discrete positions to provide input; providing input data corresponding to the input to the controller via the control interface; receiving the input data via the controller; determining, in response to receiving the input data, whether the input has passed a predetermined test by the controller; and switching, in response to determining that the input has passed the predetermined test, the controller switches from controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a first mode to controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a second mode.

[0048] The method may include: sending materials used to verify a user as an appropriate user of an aerosol supply device from a local computing device to an authorized computing device; and using the authorized computing device to evaluate the materials to determine one or more characteristics of the user.

[0049] The method may include sending a mode switching request from a local computing device to an authorized computing device, the mode switching request being a request from the controller to switch from controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to the first mode to controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to the second mode, and including an identifier of the aerosol supply device.

[0050] The method may include, in response to receiving a mode switching request, having an authorized computing device verify whether the user of the aerosol supply device is the appropriate user of the aerosol supply device.

[0051] The method may include: if verification that a user is an appropriate user of the aerosol supply device has occurred, then an authorization computing device generates input to provide the aerosol supply device with an indication that verification that a user is an appropriate user of the aerosol supply device has occurred, and

[0052] The input is sent from the authorized computing device to the local computing device.

[0053] The input generation may include the use of an identifier of the aerosol supply device by an authorized computing device, such that the information in the input has a testable association with the identifier of the aerosol supply device.

[0054] The input generated by the authorized computing device includes applying predetermined software functions to the identifier.

[0055] The input generation may include input generated by an authorized computing device, such that the controller can determine that the information in the input was generated by the authorized computing device.

[0056] The input generated by the authorized computing device may include generating an input such that the information in the input is cryptographically associated with a first key of the aerosol supply device.

[0057] The input generated by the authorized computing device may include generating the input using a second key of the authorized computing device, the second key being a private key, and the first key of the aerosol supply device being a public key corresponding to the private key.

[0058] Generating input by the authorized computing device may include selecting a pass key associated with an identifier of the aerosol supply device in the memory of the authorized computing device, and generating input such that the information in the input includes the pass key.

[0059] According to a sixth aspect, a method for manufacturing an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: generating an identifier for the aerosol supply device; providing the identifier for the aerosol supply device and storing the identifier in a memory of an authorized computing device; generating a first key for the aerosol supply device; storing the first key in the memory of the aerosol supply device; generating a second key for the authorized computing device, wherein the second key is cryptographically associated with the first key; and storing the second key in the memory of the authorized computing device.

[0060] Providing an identifier for an aerosol supply device may include storing the identifier in the memory of the aerosol supply device.

[0061] Providing an identifier for an aerosol supply device may include: providing an identifier portion that represents the identifier for the aerosol supply device.

[0062] The first key can be a public key, and the second key can be a private key.

[0063] The first key can be a private key, and the second key can be a pass key that matches the first key.

[0064] Storing the second key in the memory of the authorized computing device may include storing the second key in the memory of the authorized computing device in association with an identifier.

[0065] The first key can correspond to the input. The second key can correspond to the input.

[0066] According to a sixth aspect, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: The controller is configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device; and The control interface includes input components configured to receive input. The input components include a dial and buttons. The dial is configured to be rotated by a user between multiple positions, and the buttons are configured to be pressed by a user. The control interface is configured to provide input data corresponding to the inputs to the controller. The input data includes multiple positions reached by the dial and where the button is pressed. The controller is configured as follows: Receive input data; In response to receiving input data, determine whether the input has passed a predetermined test; and In response to the determination that the input has passed a predetermined test, the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the first mode is switched to the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the second mode.

[0067] The dial can be an index dial. An index dial can have different values ​​associated with each discrete position.

[0068] A dial may include a button. A dial may include a rotatable component. A button may include a linearly actuated component. A dial may surround a button.

[0069] The input component can be configured to receive codes.

[0070] According to a seventh aspect, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: the aforementioned aerosol supply device; and consumables including aerosol generating materials.

[0071] According to the eighth aspect, a system is provided, comprising: the aforementioned aerosol supply device; and a further device configured to transmit input to a user, such that the user can provide input to an input component.

[0072] The system may include an authorized computing device. The authorized computing device may be configured to generate input in response to receiving a mode switching request including an identifier of an aerosol supply device, and to send the input to another device.

[0073] According to a ninth aspect, a controller configured to control the operation of an aerosol supply device is provided, wherein the controller is configured to: Input data is received from the control interface of the aerosol supply device, corresponding to input received by input components of the control interface, wherein the input components include a dial and a button, the dial being configured to be rotated by the user between multiple positions, the button being configured to be pressed by the user, and wherein the input data includes multiple positions reached by the dial and where the button is pressed; and In response to receiving input data, determine whether the input has passed a predetermined test; and In response to the determination that the input has passed a predetermined test, the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the first mode is switched to the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the second mode.

[0074] According to a tenth aspect, a method for an aerosol supply apparatus is provided, comprising: Input is detected by the input component of the control interface of the aerosol supply device, wherein the input component includes a turntable and a button, the turntable being configured to be rotatable by the user between multiple positions, and the button being configured to be pressed by the user to provide input including multiple positions where the button is pressed, accessible from the turntable; The input data corresponding to the input is provided to the controller through the control interface; Receive input data through the controller; In response to receiving input data, the controller determines whether the input has passed a predetermined test; and In response to the determination that the input has passed a predetermined test, the controller switches from controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to the first mode to controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to the second mode.

[0075] Any aspect may include any feature or functional step described in relation to another aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0076] aspects of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A schematic cross-sectional view of a passage through an aerosol supply system according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0077] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a passage through an aerosol supply system according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0078] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of a passage through an aerosol supply system according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0079] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a system including an aerosol supply device, consumables, an external power supply device, a local computing device, and a remote computing device, according to certain embodiments, is shown.

[0080] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of a passage through an aerosol supply system according to certain embodiments is shown; Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a method for an aerosol supply system according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0081] Figure 7 A flowchart of a method for manufacturing an aerosol supply system according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0082] Figure 8 An aerosol supply device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0083] This document discusses or describes aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments can be implemented in a conventional manner, and for the sake of brevity, these aspects and features are not discussed / described in detail. Therefore, it will be understood that aspects and features of the apparatus and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail can be implemented according to any conventional techniques used to implement such aspects and features.

[0084] This application primarily relates to the field of "delivery systems" (i.e., systems for delivering at least one substance to a user). Typically, the purpose of delivering the substance to the user is to satisfy a specific "consumer moment." For this purpose, the substance may include components that impart physiological effects, sensory effects, or both to the user. In this context, the substance will generally be present in aerosol-generating materials or another material not intended for atomization. The material itself (whether or not it is used for atomization) will typically contain a range of components. These typically break down into active substances, flavoring agents, aerosol-forming materials, and other functional materials such as fillers. When delivered to the user, the active substance may have some form of psychological effect on the user.

[0085] Delivery systems take many forms. According to this disclosure, a "flammable" aerosol supply system is a system in which the aerosol-generating material, a component of the aerosol supply system (or its components), is combusted during use to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0086] Exemplary combustible aerosol supply systems include cigarettes, mini cigars, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or self-rolled or homemade cigarettes (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes, or other combustible materials). Exemplary non-combustible aerosol supply systems include heat-noncombustible aerosol supply systems (e.g., heated tobacco products (THP) and charcoal-tipped heated tobacco products (CTHP)) in which a solid material is heated to generate an aerosol without burning the material; vapor aerosol supply systems (often referred to as "electronic cigarettes") in which a liquid material is heated to generate an aerosol; and hybrid aerosol supply systems that are similar to vapor aerosol supply systems except that the aerosol generated from the liquid material passes through a second material (such as tobacco) to pick up additional ingredients before reaching the user. Exemplary aerosol-free delivery systems that deliver at least one substance to a user via oral, nasal, dermal, or other means without forming an aerosol include, but are not limited to: lozenges, gums, patches, articles containing inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco including nasal or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not include nicotine.

[0087] While this document describes various techniques in relation to non-flammable aerosol supply systems, these techniques can be readily applied in the context of any of the aforementioned delivery systems, for example, by implementation within the delivery system where feasible, or by application in “smart” containers used in delivery systems, such as for storage delivery systems. The delivery systems described herein can be implemented as flammable aerosol supply systems, non-flammable aerosol supply systems, or aerosol-free delivery systems.

[0088] Specifically, but not exclusively, this disclosure relates to a non-flammable aerosol supply system. A "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the aerosol-generating material of the aerosol supply system (or its components) is non-flammable in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user. The delivery system can be a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as an electrically powered non-flammable aerosol supply system. A non-flammable aerosol supply system can be an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaporizer or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not essential. A non-flammable aerosol supply system can be an aerosol-generating material heating system, such as a heated non-flammable system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system. Specifically, but not exclusively, this disclosure relates to an electronic aerosol supply system that can (or may not) be an electronic non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0089] Aerosol-generating materials are materials capable of generating aerosols, for example, when heated, radiated, or electrified in any other way. Aerosol-generating materials can be in the form of, for example, solid, liquid, or semi-solid (e.g., gel), and may or may not contain active substances and / or fragrances. Aerosol-generating materials may contain one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials. Aerosol-generating materials may contain binders (e.g., gelling agents) and aerosol-forming agents. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or a filler 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 or may not be soluble in this solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. Specifically, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0090] Aerosol generating materials may include or be in the form of aerosol generating membranes. Aerosol generating membranes may include a binder (e.g., a gelling agent) and an aerosol forming agent. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or a filler may also be present. Aerosol generating membranes may be substantially free of plant material. Specifically, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is substantially free of tobacco. Aerosol generating membranes may have a thickness of about 0.015 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the thickness may range from about 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm, or 0.15 mm to about 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm. Aerosol generating membranes may be continuous. For example, the membrane may include or be a continuous sheet of material. The sheet may be in the form of a package, it may be aggregated to form an aggregated sheet, or it may be shredded to form a shredded sheet. Shredded sheets may include one or more strands or multiple strips of aerosol generating material. Aerosol generating membranes may be discontinuous. For example, an aerosol-generating membrane may include one or more discrete portions or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as dots, strips, or lines, that can be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar. An aerosol-generating membrane can be formed by the following steps: bonding an adhesive (e.g., a gelling agent) with a solvent (e.g., water, an aerosol forming agent, and one or more other components (e.g., one or more substances to be transported)) to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to evaporate at least some of the solvent to form an aerosol-generating membrane. The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent.

[0091] Aerosol-generating materials may include or be "amorphous solids". In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes an amorphous solid aerosol-generating membrane. The amorphous solid may be a "monolithic solid". The amorphous solid may be substantially non-fibrous. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid (e.g., liquid) therein. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may, for example, include from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% amorphous solid to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% amorphous solid. The amorphous solid may be substantially free of plant material. The amorphous solid may be substantially free of tobacco.

[0092] Aerosol-forming agent materials may include one or more components capable of forming aerosols. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming agent material may include one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl octanoate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of diacetates, benzyl benzoate, benzyl acetate, phenyl acetate, glyceryl tribanoate, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate. One or more other functional materials may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0093] As is common in this art, the terms "vapor" and "aerosol," as well as related terms such as "evaporation," "volatilization," and "aerosolization," are generally used interchangeably. In use, inhalation occurs on an aerosol supply system when a user inhales an aerosol generated by an aerosol-generating material. A series of inhalations can be considered a "session." A series can correspond to a characteristic pattern of inhalation. A series can correspond to a predetermined number or range of inhalations by the user on the aerosol supply system. For example, a session can be defined as 10 inhalations, or 8 to 12 inhalations. Alternatively or additionally, a session can be defined by a predetermined time from the initial inhalation on the aerosol supply system (e.g., when the aerosol-generating material is heated to a target temperature for a predetermined time). For example, this predetermined time could be less than 4 minutes, less than 6 minutes, or less than 10 minutes. Thus, a session can be defined when the total number of inhalations reaches a predetermined number or range of inhalations and / or when the time elapsed from the initial inhalation reaches a predetermined time. It should be understood that the values ​​for the predetermined number of inhalations and the predetermined time are given only as examples, and other numbers and times may be used appropriately in other implementations.

[0094] Alternatively or concurrently, in embodiments, a session corresponds to a series of inhalations, separated from another session by pauses exceeding a threshold duration. The threshold duration can be selected for user understanding (e.g., 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 25 minutes, 30 minutes, 35 minutes, 40 minutes, 45 minutes, 50 minutes, or 55 minutes, or more preferably a period in the range of 5-45 minutes, or more preferably a period in the range of 10-30 minutes, or still more preferably a period in the range of 15-20 minutes), or can be selected based on pharmacokinetic (e.g., the so-called in vivo nicotine half-life (approximately 2 hours)) or physiological basis (e.g., a decrease in the perceived brain stimulation caused by nicotine (e.g., approximately 15-25 minutes, averaging approximately 18-20 minutes)). Optionally, the half-life can be further individualized, for example, based on sex, body type (size, weight, etc.), ethnicity, etc. A lookup table of half-life values ​​and / or scaling values ​​for one or more physiological factors of the user can be used to refine the otherwise generic half-life values. Therefore, an inhalation session can include characteristic patterns and / or can be separated from another session by an unused threshold duration.

[0095] Typically, an aerosol supply system may include an aerosol supply device (e.g., a reusable portion) and consumables (e.g., disposable portions) for use with the aerosol supply device. In many cases, consumables are sold separately from the device and are often sold in multi-packs. The terms "consumables" and "products" are generally used interchangeably. Typically, consumables will include aerosol-generating material, and the aerosol supply device will include a power supply, a controller, a control interface, and a memory (each of which will be discussed in more detail herein), said memory being at least partially enclosed in a housing that may be formed of any suitable material (e.g., plastic or metal). In use, consumables may engage with the aerosol supply device. For example, at least a portion of the consumable may be received by the aerosol supply device, for example, in a consumable chamber of the aerosol supply device configured to receive at least a portion of the consumable. The aerosol supply device is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material of the consumable. Once the aerosol-generating material in the consumable is depleted, the user can remove the consumable, for example, by detaching the aerosol supply unit from the consumable, disposing of the consumable, or replacing it with (new) consumable. Devices conforming to this type of two-piece modular configuration are generally referred to as two-piece aerosol supply units, and together with the consumable, they are generally referred to as two-piece aerosol supply systems.

[0096] In this two-piece aerosol supply system, the consumable and the aerosol supply device can be coupled to each other. For example, the consumable can be mechanically and / or electrically coupled to the aerosol supply device using a coupling interface of the aerosol supply device and a corresponding coupling interface of the consumable. The coupling interface of the aerosol supply device may include a mechanical coupling device for mechanical connection with the consumable, such as mechanical connection with a corresponding mechanical coupling device of the consumable. The coupling interface may include an electrical coupling interface for electrical connection with the consumable (e.g., a corresponding electrical coupling interface of the consumable). The electrical coupling interface of the aerosol supply device can be configured to supply power to the consumable, such as supplying power to the aerosol generator of the consumable (as will be discussed in more detail here).

[0097] While consumables typically comprise a single portion of aerosol-generating material, in some cases, they may comprise multiple portions of aerosol-generating material, each of which may be distinct. In such cases, the consumable may be received by an aerosol supply device configured to generate aerosols from one or more of the multiple portions of the aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol supply device may be configured to generate aerosols independently of each portion of the aerosol-generating material. Each portion of the aerosol-generating material may be a discrete portion, wherein the multiple discrete portions are separate from each other, such that each of these discrete portions can be individually energized (e.g., heated) and / or independently energized (e.g., heated) to generate an aerosol.

[0098] In some cases, aerosol supply devices can be configured to receive multiple consumables, each of which may comprise a different aerosol-generating material. In use, multiple consumables are received by the aerosol supply device, and the device is configured to generate aerosols from the aerosol-generating materials of one or more consumables, each consumable capable of generating aerosols independently. Devices conforming to this type of configuration are generally referred to as multi-consumable devices, and together with multiple consumables, they are generally referred to as multi-consumable systems. Multi-consumable devices and systems such as these can use any features used in two-piece aerosol supply devices and systems, such as, but not limited to, aerosol-generating materials, aerosol generators, power supplies, control interfaces, controllers, and memory (as discussed in more detail herein). Similarly, these components can be at least partially enclosed within a housing that can be made of any suitable material, such as plastic or metal.

[0099] An implementation is also envisioned in which the aerosol supply device is a single-piece aerosol supply device, not configured to receive removable consumables, and instead, the aerosol supply device itself includes aerosol generating material. The single-piece aerosol supply device can be configured to be refillable, such that when at least a portion of the (initial) aerosol generating material of the aerosol supply device is depleted, it can be refilled with (new) aerosol generating material. Alternatively, the single-piece aerosol supply device can be a disposable single-piece aerosol supply device, which can be discarded by the user after the aerosol generating material has been depleted (e.g., after a predetermined number of aspirations), and is not configured, for example, to be refillable by the user. Furthermore, the single-piece aerosol supply device can be a non-rechargeable single-piece aerosol supply device, excluding a charging interface for receiving power from an external power source (as will be discussed in more detail herein). These single-piece (refillable or disposable) aerosol supply devices can use any features found in two-piece (and / or multi-consumable) aerosol supply systems, such as, but not limited to, aerosol generating materials, aerosol generators, power supplies, control interfaces, controllers, and memory (as will be discussed in more detail herein). Similarly, these components can be at least partially enclosed within a housing made of any suitable material, such as plastic or metal.

[0100] An aerosol delivery system includes a mouthpiece through which a user inhales aerosol generated from an aerosol-generating material. The mouthpiece may include a material comfortable to the user's lips, such as plastic or rubber. When the user inhales through the mouthpiece, air combined with the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating material is drawn in through the aerosol delivery system. The user can then inhale this combination of air and aerosol, thus delivering the aerosol substance to the user. The aerosol delivery system may include one or more air inlets, which may be positioned away from the mouthpiece. When the user inhales through the mouthpiece, air is drawn in through the one or more air inlets and passes through the location where the aerosol is generated. A flow path may exist connecting this location and an opening in the mouthpiece, such that the air drawn in through the one or more air inlets, carrying the aerosol, continues along the flow path to the opening. The aerosol then exits the aerosol delivery system through the mouthpiece (e.g., the mouthpiece opening) for the user to inhale. The nozzle can be part of the consumables or the aerosol supply device, or it can be a separate component that forms part of the aerosol supply system in addition to the aerosol supply device and consumables.

[0101] The construction of an aerosol supply system (and its aerosol supply device) can vary depending on the form of the aerosol-generating material from which it is configured to generate aerosols. However, although examples will be discussed below with regard to various forms of aerosol-generating materials and correspondingly different aerosol supply device constructions, the techniques discussed herein can be applied to all forms of aerosol-generating materials.

[0102] Aerosol supply systems (e.g., their aerosol supply devices) include an aerosol generator configured to generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials, with the aerosols generated at an aerosol generation area within the aerosol supply system. Aerosol generators typically, but not always, include a heating element configured to heat and volatilize the aerosol-generating material, thereby generating aerosols that can be inhaled by a user. While this document will discuss many features of aerosol generators that include a heating element, we note that these features can also be applied to aerosol generators that do not necessarily include a heating element.

[0103] Aerosol supply systems (e.g., their aerosol supply devices) typically include a heating chamber, to which a heating component is configured to heat the heating chamber, such that the aerosol-generating material within the heating chamber is heated. In such an arrangement, the heating chamber may correspond to an aerosol-generating area. The heating chamber is configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. The heating chamber may be included in a consumable. An aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) may include a consumable chamber configured to receive at least a portion of the consumable. However, the heating chamber may correspond to the consumable chamber, such as in arrangements where the heating chamber is included in the consumable. The heating chamber may not necessarily correspond to the consumable chamber, but rather to an area within the consumable that is contained within the consumable chamber during use when connected to the aerosol supply device. The consumable may be configured to be partially or completely inserted into the aerosol supply device by inserting the consumable into the consumable chamber through an opening in the housing of the aerosol supply device.

[0104] The heating assembly may include a heating element, and the heating assembly is configured to heat the heating element. The heating element is used, for example, to heat the aerosol-generating material by being configured to heat the heating chamber. The heating element may be part of an aerosol supply device or consumable, or it may be a separate component as part of an aerosol supply system other than the aerosol supply device and consumables. Multiple corresponding heating elements may be used, and the heating assembly may be configured for independent heating, for example, such that they can be heated individually or in combination. In cases where the system includes multiple portions of aerosol-generating material (whether the multiple portions are in the same consumable, multiple consumables, or in an aerosol supply device), multiple corresponding heating elements may be used, each heating element being configured to heat a corresponding portion of the aerosol-generating material. Multiple heating elements may also be configured to heat different areas of the same portion of the aerosol-generating material.

[0105] In some arrangements, the heating assembly is configured to heat the heating element by resistance heating, wherein current flows through the heating element to cause heating as a result of the resistance of the heating element. In some arrangements, the heating assembly is configured to heat the heating element by induction heating, in which case the magnetic field generator of the heating assembly is configured to generate a changing magnetic field that penetrates the heating element and causes the susceptor material within the heating element to be heated. In other words, the susceptor material is configured to be heated by penetrating through the changing magnetic field. The magnetic field generator may include a coil, such as a helical coil, that can surround at least a portion of the heating chamber.

[0106] The heating element can be heated by utilizing the penetration of a changing magnetic field because the absorbing material includes a conductive material, and the changing magnetic field induces eddy currents within the absorbing material that cause heating. Alternatively or additionally, this can be because the absorbing material includes a magnetic material, and the changing magnetic field causes heating of the absorbing material through a hysteresis mechanism. In embodiments, the absorbing material may include both conductive and magnetic materials.

[0107] Heating elements, such as their absorbing materials (when present), may include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of: metallic materials such as aluminum, gold, iron, nickel, cobalt, pure carbon steel, stainless steel, ferritic stainless steel, copper, and bronze, or non-metallic materials such as conductive carbon or graphite.

[0108] An arrangement is envisioned in which the heating assembly includes a radiant heating element configured to generate radiation for heating the aerosol-generating material (e.g., for heating the heating chamber). The radiation may include electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared or microwave radiation, or acoustic radiation, such as ultrasonic radiation. In such an arrangement, as discussed above regarding heating elements, the heating assembly can be configured to independently heat different portions of the aerosol-generating material or different areas of the same portion of the aerosol-generating material. Typically, this can be achieved by a heating assembly configured to independently heat different areas of the heating chamber.

[0109] Each of these heating technologies can be applied to any of the aforementioned aerosol generating materials, and can be applied in the context of single-piece aerosol supply systems, two-piece aerosol supply systems, and multi-consumer aerosol supply systems, or in any other form of delivery system that uses heating to generate aerosols from aerosol generating materials.

[0110] In arrangements where the aerosol-generating material is liquid, the aerosol generation can be stored within a reservoir included in the aerosol supply system. The reservoir can be part of the aerosol supply device, particularly if the aerosol supply device is a single-piece aerosol supply device, or it can be part of consumables (if present). In arrangements where the reservoir storing the aerosol-generating material is part of consumables, the consumables can also include a heating element, which can be heated using resistance heating or induction heating. In such arrangements where the consumables include a reservoir storing the aerosol-generating material, the consumables can be referred to as a cartridge.

[0111] The reservoir can take the form of a storage tank, which is a container or receiver in which the aerosol-generating material can be stored, allowing the liquid to move and flow freely within the tank's boundaries. In arrangements where the reservoir is included in the consumable, the reservoir can be sealed during manufacturing after filling to make it disposable after the aerosol-generating material is consumed; otherwise, it can have an inlet port through which a user can add new aerosol-generating material. In such arrangements, a heating element can be included in the consumable and can be located outside the storage tank for generating an aerosol by evaporating the aerosol-generating material through heating. A transfer arrangement, which may include a wick or other porous element, can be provided to transport the aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the heating element. The transfer arrangement can have one or more portions located inside the reservoir, or otherwise in fluid communication with the aerosol-generating material in the reservoir, to absorb the aerosol-generating material and transfer it by wicking or capillary action to other portions of the transfer arrangement adjacent to or in contact with the heating element. The aerosol-generating material is thus heated and evaporated to be replaced by new aerosol-generating material from the reservoir, which is then transferred to the heating element via a core transfer arrangement. The transfer arrangement can be considered as a conduit between the reservoir and the heating element that transfers the aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the heating element. Although discussed in the context of a reservoir and heating element included in consumables, these features can be equally applied to aerosol supply devices, for example, in the case of a single-piece aerosol supply device.

[0112] In arrangements where the aerosol-generating material is a solid or gel, the aerosol-generating material may be provided in the consumable. The consumable may be in rod form, which may also be interchangeably referred to as a "stick," and may have a cylindrical shape. In some cases, the consumable further includes a filter and / or a cooling element. In such cases, the consumable may include a nozzle. The consumable may include a package that at least partially surrounds other components of the consumable, including one or more of the filter, cooling element, nozzle, and aerosol-generating material. In some cases, the package may include a paper layer. In some cases, the package may include a non-combustible layer (e.g., a flame-retardant layer), such as metal foil. Suitably, the package may include an aluminum foil layer. The package may include a laminated structure, and in some cases, the laminated structure may include at least one paper layer and at least one non-combustible layer.

[0113] Consumables can be provided in various shapes and forms, such as planar forms, in which case the consumables include sheets. Aerosol-generating materials can be present on or within a support to form a substrate. For example, the support can be or include paper, cards, cardboard, pallets, reconstructed materials, plastic materials, ceramic materials, composite materials, glass, metal, or metal alloys.

[0114] When present, the heating element can be part of the aerosol supply device, such that the heating element is close to (e.g., in contact with) the consumable when it is received by the aerosol supply device. Alternatively, the heating element can be part of the consumable. This can be the case in arrangements where the aerosol generating material is a liquid, solid, or gel.

[0115] Non-flammable aerosol supply systems (e.g., aerosol supply devices or their consumables) may include aerosol modifiers. An aerosol modifier is typically a substance located downstream of the aerosol generation region, configured to modify the generated aerosol, for example, by altering its taste, aroma, acidity, or another characteristic. The aerosol modifier may be disposed in an aerosol modifier release component operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier. The aerosol modifier may be, for example, an additive or adsorbent. The aerosol modifier may, for example, contain one or more of fragrances, colorants, water, and carbon adsorbents. The aerosol modifier may be, for example, a solid, liquid, or gel. The aerosol modifier may be in powder, filament, or granular form. The aerosol modifier may not contain filter material.

[0116] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as its non-flammable aerosol supply device, may include a power source. The power source may include, for example, a power supply or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source includes a carbon substrate that can be energized to distribute electricity in the form of heat to the aerosol-generating material or a heat transfer material near the exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the power source includes a battery, such as a 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. The power source is connected to a heating assembly and configured to supply power to the heating assembly, such that the power source is configured to supply power to the heating assembly, and the heating assembly is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material using the electricity supplied by the power source.

[0117] In some embodiments, the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) includes a controller configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply system. It should be appreciated that the functionality of the controller can be provided in various different ways, for example, using one or more appropriately programmed programmable computers and / or one or more appropriately configured application-specific integrated circuits / circuits / chips / chipsets configured to provide the desired functionality. It will be understood that the controller may include a microcontroller (MCU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a central processing unit (CPU), and / or a microprocessor. The controller can be considered as a processing circuit. The operation of the controller is typically controlled at least in part by a software program executing on the controller. Typically, the aerosol supply device of an aerosol supply system includes a controller, but this is not always the case, and in an arrangement, consumables may include the controller.

[0118] A controller can be configured to control the operation of an aerosol generator (e.g., its heating element). While many arrangements for configuring a controller to control the operation of the heating element of an aerosol generator will be discussed, these arrangements are generally applicable to aerosol generators that may or may not include a heating element. The controller is connected to a power source and the aerosol generator and is configured to control the power supply to the aerosol generator. Therefore, the controller can be configured to control the heating of the aerosol-generating material by the heating element.

[0119] The controller can be configured to heat the aerosol-generating material according to a heating profile, for example, by causing a heating assembly to heat the aerosol-generating material according to the heating profile. A heating profile refers to the change in the material's temperature over time. For example, the temperature change of a heating element measured at the heating element during the duration of use can be referred to as the heating profile of the heating element (or equivalently, the heating profile of the heating assembly unit including the heating element). During use, the heating element provides heat to the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosols. Therefore, the heating profile of the heating element causes the heating profile of the aerosol-generating material (which, for example, is located near the heating element).

[0120] The aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) may also include memory. The memory may include volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM) or flash memory, and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable read-only memory (EEROM), or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). In embodiments, the memory includes controller memory, which is part of the controller and may be integrated within it. The memory may additionally or alternatively include external memory connected to and outside the controller. External memory is removable from the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) and may include an SD card or microSD card. Software programs executed by the controller may be stored on the memory.

[0121] The aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) may also include a control interface for receiving inputs and / or providing outputs. For example, the control interface may be configured to receive inputs and provide input data corresponding to the received inputs to the controller. The control interface may be configured to receive output data from the controller and provide outputs corresponding to the output data received from the controller.

[0122] The control interface may include a user interface, which includes one or more input components for receiving input from a user and one or more output components for providing output to the user. One or more input components are configured to receive input from the user and provide corresponding input data to the controller. One or more input components may be configured to receive input from the user in the form of physical manipulation. One or more input components may include buttons (such as scroll buttons), switches, dials, microphones, cameras, accelerometers, touchscreens, or any combination thereof. One or more input components may be assigned functions such as turning the aerosol supply device on and off and selecting the operating mode of the aerosol supply system (as will be discussed in more detail herein). One or more output components are configured to receive output data from the controller and provide corresponding output to the user. One or more output components may include lights (such as LEDs), speakers, haptic components, displays (such as screens), or any combination thereof. The controller may be configured to cause one or more output components to provide outputs indicative of the characteristics of the aerosol supply system, such as the characteristics of the aerosol generating material or the remaining power of the power supply.

[0123] The control interface may include one or more sensors for detecting one or more attributes associated with the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device), and the sensors may be configured to provide input data to the controller including sensor data associated with the detected one or more attributes. One or more sensors may include a puff sensor configured to detect user inhalation at the aerosol supply system. One or more sensors may include temperature sensors configured to detect temperatures associated with the aerosol supply system (e.g., the temperature of the heating assembly, heating element, consumables, aerosol generating material, or the temperature of the environment surrounding the aerosol supply system). One or more sensors may include a consumable detection sensor configured to detect when the consumable has been engaged with the aerosol supply device, for example, at least partially received by the aerosol supply device. One or more sensors may include a consumable identification sensor configured to detect attributes of the consumable (e.g., attributes of the aerosol generating material of the consumable). One or more sensors may include a biometric sensor configured to detect user-related biometric attributes (e.g., fingerprint, heart rate, respiratory attributes).

[0124] The control interface may include communication circuitry configured to connect to one or more additional devices and / or communicate data with one or more additional devices. The communication circuitry communicating data with one or more additional devices may include sending data to one or more additional devices (e.g., to transfer data from an aerosol supply device to one or more additional devices), receiving data from one or more additional devices (e.g., to transfer data from one or more additional devices to an aerosol supply device), or both sending data to one or more additional devices and receiving data from one or more additional devices. The term "sending" data can be understood as transmitting data from a device, while the term "transfer" can be understood as transmitting data from a device and receiving data by another device. For example, the communication circuitry may be configured to establish a data connection with one or more additional devices. In some embodiments, the communication circuitry is integrated into the controller, and in other embodiments, it is implemented separately (including, for example, separate application-specific integrated circuits, circuits, chips, and / or chipsets). The data connection may be non-permanent or otherwise transient; in this sense, the data connection may be established for a period of time necessary for the continuous performance of a particular function, but may also be disconnected when not needed. In this context, the additional device for the aerosol supply device may be another aerosol supply device, consumables, or (as further described herein) an external power supply device or computing device.

[0125] The communication circuit can be configured to receive input including data from another device and to provide (e.g., transmit) output including data to the other device. The communication circuit can be configured to provide input data corresponding to the input (including data received from the other device) to the controller and to provide (e.g., transmit) output including data (corresponding to output data provided by the controller) to the other device. Therefore, the controller can (via the communication circuit) receive data sent from the other device to the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device), and the controller can (via the communication circuit) send data from the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) to the other device. Data received from the other device may include instructions for the controller of the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) to perform one or more control actions. Data provided to (e.g., transmitted to) the other device may include instructions for the other device to perform one or more control actions. The reference to a device that sends data to another device can be understood as the controller of the corresponding device, which causes the communication circuit of the device to send data to be received by the control circuit of the other device, and the corresponding input data is then received by the controller of the other device from the control circuit of the other device.

[0126] The communication circuit may include a wireless communication module configured to establish a wireless data connection with one or more other devices, and / or use the wireless data connection to communicate data with one or more other devices. For example, the wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth module (e.g., a Bluetooth Low Energy module), a ZigBee module, a WiFi module (e.g., a WiFi Direct module), a 2G module, a 3G module, a 4G module, a 5G module, an LTE module, an NFC module, an RFID module, an optical communication module configured to communicate data using optical signals, an audio communication module configured to communicate data using audio signals, or other wireless communication modules. Therefore, the wireless data connection may accordingly be a Bluetooth connection (e.g., a Bluetooth Low Energy connection), a ZigBee connection, a WiFi connection (e.g., a WiFi Direct connection), a 2G connection, a 3G connection, a 4G connection, a 5G connection, an LTE connection, and an NFC connection, as well as an RFID connection, an optical data connection, an audio data connection, or other wireless data connection. More generally, it will be understood that any wireless protocol can be used in principle for the wireless data connection.

[0127] The communication circuitry may also, or alternatively, include a wired communication module configured to establish a wired data connection with one or more other devices and / or to communicate data with one or more other devices using the wired data connection. For example, the wired communication module may include a wired interface such as a USB interface (e.g., USB-A, USB-B, mini-USB, micro-USB, USB-C, or USB-3), a Thunderbolt interface, or other wired data interfaces. Therefore, the wired data connection may accordingly be a USB connection (e.g., USB-A, USB-B, mini-USB, micro-USB, USB-C, or USB-3), a Thunderbolt connection, or other wired data connections. More generally, it will be understood that the wired module may include any wired interface using a wired protocol that enables data transmission according to, for example, a packet data transmission protocol, and may include pin or contact pad arrangements configured to engage cooperating pins or contact pads on another device that can be connected to the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device).

[0128] The controller can be configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply system based on input data received from a control interface. Input data may include input data provided from one or more input components of the user interface, input data including sensor data provided from one or more sensors, and input data from communication circuitry corresponding to data received from another device. Based on events such as receiving input data (e.g., in response to an event), the controller can be configured to perform control actions, such as activating the function of components of the aerosol supply system (e.g., causing a heating element to start heating, causing one or more output components to provide output to a user, or causing communication circuitry to provide output to another device), changing parameters associated with the function of components of the aerosol supply system, and enabling or disabling the function of components of the aerosol supply system.

[0129] The controller can be configured to perform control actions based on events. In this case, the controller will determine whether and how to perform the control action based on whether the event has occurred and, for example, based on the attributes of the event. For example, the controller can cause the heating component to heat the aerosol generating material based on detected attributes of the consumable, such that when the controller initiates heating, a specific heating curve is used for a specific detected attribute of the consumable, and heating is not used for another specific detected attribute of the consumable. However, while the control action can be performed directly after the event (i.e., triggered by the event), this is not necessary, and the control action can be performed at a later time. The controller can also be configured to perform control actions in response to an event. In this case, the controller will then perform the action (either directly after or at a later time), i.e., the execution of the action is triggered by the event. For example, the controller can cause the heating component to heat the aerosol generating material immediately after the detection of user inhalation.

[0130] The controller can also be configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) according to selected modes (or multiple selected modes). Each mode is associated with predetermined rules regarding the function of one or more components of the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device). For example, operating parameters and / or logic can vary between modes. These components may include, but are not limited to, memory, control interface, aerosol generator, and power supply. In some modes, specific functions of one or more components can be enabled such that when the controller receives input data, for example, including instructions to perform the function, it can cause the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) to perform the function. However, in some modes, specific functions of one or more components can be disabled such that when the controller receives input data, for example, including instructions to perform the function, it does not cause the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) to perform the function.

[0131] The consumable itself may include either or both of a controller and a memory. The controller and memory of the consumable may use any of the types discussed above regarding aerosol supply systems. The consumable may also include a control interface for receiving input and / or providing output, and the control interface may use any of the features of the control interfaces discussed above regarding aerosol supply systems. For example, the control interface may include communication circuitry configured to connect to one or more other devices and enable the establishment of data connections with one or more other devices. In this context, the other device to the consumable may be an aerosol supply device, another consumable, or (as further described herein) an external power supply device, or a computing device.

[0132] The aerosol supply device may include a charging interface for receiving power from an external power source. For example, the charging interface may be used to receive power from an external power source including a charging cable. As part of a system including an aerosol supply system, an external power supply device may also be provided, configured to connect to the aerosol supply device (e.g., its charging interface) and supply power to the aerosol supply device. The external power supply device may include a power source, such as a battery, like a rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (e.g., lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (e.g., nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The external power supply device may be configured to provide power to charge the power source of the aerosol supply device. The external power supply device may be a "charging housing" including a recess configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol supply device, wherein the external power supply device is configured to connect to the charging interface when the aerosol supply device is received in the recess.

[0133] An external power supply unit may include any one or both of a controller and a memory. The controller and memory of the external power supply unit may use any of the features of controllers and memory discussed above regarding aerosol supply systems. The controller of the external power supply unit may be configured to control the power supply to the aerosol supply unit. The external power supply unit may also include a control interface for receiving inputs and / or providing outputs, and the control interface may use any of the features of control interfaces discussed above regarding aerosol supply systems. For example, the control interface may include communication circuitry configured to connect to one or more additional devices and enable the establishment of data connections with one or more additional devices. In this context, the additional devices to the external power supply unit may be the aerosol supply unit, consumables, another external power supply unit, or (as further described herein) a computing device.

[0134] The charging interface of the external power supply device can also be configured to communicate data with the external power supply when connected. In these arrangements, the charging interface corresponds to a wired communication component (i.e., the wired communication component of the communication circuitry of the external power supply device) configured to transmit data using a wired data connection. The charging interface may include a wired interface, such as a USB interface (e.g., USB-A, USB-B, mini USB, micro USB, USB-C, or USB-3), a Thunderbolt interface, or other wired interfaces.

[0135] A system including an aerosol supply system may also include one or more computing devices configured to connect to the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply unit) and communicate with it using a data connection (e.g., wired or wireless). The one or more computing devices may include local computing devices that can be controlled or owned by a user, such as smartphones, tablets, personal computers (PCs), wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches), refilling devices for refilling the aerosol supply unit or consumables using aerosol-generating materials, or connection hubs. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more computing devices may include remote computing devices that are not controlled or owned by the user, such as servers.

[0136] The computing device may include either or both of a controller and a memory. The controller and memory of the computing device may use any of the features discussed above regarding controllers and memory in relation to the aerosol supply system. The computing device may also include a control interface for receiving input (e.g., from a user) and / or providing output (e.g., to a user), which may use any of the features discussed above regarding control interfaces in relation to the aerosol supply system. The control interface may include communication circuitry configured to connect to and communicate data with another device. In this context, the other device to the computing device may be an aerosol supply device, consumables, an external power supply, or another computing device.

[0137] The aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) may establish communication directly with the remote computing device using one of the aforementioned wireless protocols, for example, through a communication node (such as a telecommunications "base station") that provides a connection to the remote computing device. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device) may establish communication with the remote computing device via a local computing device, for example, using wired or wireless communication protocols to communicate with the local computing device, which then communicates with the remote computing device. The local computing device may also communicate indirectly with the remote computing device via a relay device (which may be a further computing device) to realize aspects of its own functionality or on behalf of the aerosol supply system (e.g., as a relay or coprocessor unit).

[0138] The computing devices can also transmit data to each other directly or indirectly via any of the wired or wireless communication protocols described above. Therefore, in various embodiments, a given first device and second device (e.g., any of an aerosol supply device, consumables, an external power supply, and a computing device) can typically be in a connected or disconnected state relative to each other. The disconnected state can also be referred to as an idle state, and in this state, the given first device cannot be detected by the other second device (i.e., the first device does not transmit any signaling that enables the determination of its presence and / or identity), or it can establish a data connection with the second device (i.e., it can announce its presence and / or identity using announcement signaling). In the connected state, the first and second devices are configured such that data can be transmitted from the first device to the second device (e.g., "uplink" transmission) and / or from the second device to the first device (e.g., "downlink" transmission). Therefore, the establishment of a data connection between the first and second devices can be considered to include the establishment of any state in which the two devices can exchange data regardless of the direction of data transmission. Non-limiting examples of a connection state are establishing an RRC connection state based on the Long Term Evolution (LTE) standard, or establishing a connection state based on the Bluetooth (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)) standard.

[0139] When the first and second devices are configured for wireless communication, the transition from an unconnected state to a connected state typically follows a process similar to the following: In the initial query step, the first device (e.g., an aerosol supply device or consumable, although this can be applied to any of the aforementioned devices) determines the presence of the second device (e.g., a computing device, although this can be applied to any of the aforementioned devices) by receiving a beacon signal or other identification signal from the second device. In the authentication step, the first and second devices exchange messages to determine information related to the data transmission protocol used for exchanging data (e.g., including encoding and encryption parameters to be used when exchanging data). In the data transmission step, the first and second devices transmit data through a wireless interface established according to the agreed data transmission protocol. Data transmission can be bidirectional or unidirectional. The data communication process for wired communication can be broadly similar, except that data is transmitted through a wired interface instead of a wireless interface.

[0140] As further described herein, any system comprising any combination of an aerosol supply system and an external power supply and computing device can be used to support the functions of the aerosol supply system. These functions may be referred to as “connectivity” functions because they involve data transmission between the aerosol supply system and other connected devices, such as one or more computing devices. Such an arrangement can be considered advantageous in enhancing aspects of the operation of the aerosol supply system. For example, an aerosol supply device capable of receiving data from other devices can receive software updates or updated parameters from the computing device (e.g., related to aerosol generation by the aerosol generator). Determining suitable parameters may require significant handling of overheating, which is performed more efficiently on the computing device with higher processing power than is typically provided on an aerosol supply system, where lower energy consumption (for extended battery life) and reduced complexity (for cost reduction) are generally considered advantageous.

[0141] A computing device (such as a smartphone) can also be used by the user to provide input to the control interface of the aerosol supply system, which can be particularly advantageous where there is an incentive to keep the input or output components on the aerosol supply system to a minimum (e.g., to reduce complexity and cost). Therefore, an application running on the computing device (“app”) can support functions that are effectively offloaded or relayed for the aerosol supply device, which has a direct or indirect (e.g., relay) data connection with the computing device according to the method described above. Thus, the aerosol supply system can send data (e.g., data based on sensor data related to the use of the aerosol supply system received by the controller of the aerosol supply system) to the computing device via its communication circuitry, and the computing device can provide information related to the aerosol supply system to the user via the application. Alternatively or additionally, the user can select control actions via the application, and data related to the control actions can be sent from the computing device to the aerosol supply system, whereby the controller of the aerosol supply system executes the control actions.

[0142] This document describes various methods for operating an aerosol supply system. While these methods can be described in the context of the aerosol supply system being controlled by a controller of the aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device), it should be understood that these methods can be performed by any controller and any combination of controllers in a broader system, including any combination of one or more aerosol supply devices, one or more consumables, one or more external power supplies, and one or more computing devices. Specifically, since each of these controllers can communicate with some or any of the other controllers in a system that includes any one of the aerosol supply devices, consumables, external power supplies, and computing devices, data (such as instructions for performing one or more control actions) can be communicated directly or indirectly between any of these controllers. Therefore, methods for operating an aerosol supply system can be performed by a “distributed” aerosol supply system, which includes any combination of the aforementioned aerosol supply devices, consumables, external power supplies, and computing devices, for example, by any one or more controllers of these devices. Therefore, although specific method steps can be described in the context of a controller of a specific device, it is expected that, where feasible, these control actions can be performed by another controller among these controllers, and that each method step can be performed by each respective different controller.

[0143] Various implementation methods will now be described in more detail.

[0144] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a two-piece aerosol supply system 1 according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0145] The aerosol supply system 1 is a two-piece aerosol supply system, comprising an aerosol supply device 100 and a consumable 150 including aerosol generating material 170. The aerosol supply device 100 includes a housing 105, a memory 110, a controller 120 configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply system 1, a control interface 130 for receiving input from the aerosol supply device and providing output from the aerosol supply device 100, and a power supply 140 configured to provide power for the operation of the aerosol supply device 100. The housing 105 may also at least partially enclose other components of the aerosol supply device 100, namely the memory 110, controller 120, control interface 130, and power supply 140. The aerosol supply device 100 is a handheld electronic vapor device, meaning that the housing 105 surrounding the other components is sized and configured to be held in the user's hand. In other words, the device is portable.

[0146] Consumable 150 includes a reservoir containing liquid aerosol generating material 170 and a nozzle 190 through which a user can inhale aerosol generated from aerosol generating material 180. The consumable also includes a heating element 160 configured to heat the aerosol generating material 170. In use, a coupling interface 101 of the aerosol supply device 100 engages with a coupling interface 151 of the consumable, each of these coupling interfaces including a mechanical engagement means for mechanically connecting them to each other. Each coupling interface 101, 151 also includes an electrical coupling interface, allowing the aerosol supply device 100 to be electrically connected to the consumable 150. The electrical coupling interface 101 of the aerosol supply device is configured to supply power from a power source 140 to the consumable, specifically to the heating element 160 of the consumable. A controller 120 is configured to control the power supply from the power source 140 to the heating element 160 to control the heating of the aerosol generating material 170 through the heating element 160.

[0147] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a single-piece aerosol supply system 2, according to certain embodiments, is shown.

[0148] The aerosol supply system 2 is a single-unit aerosol supply device 200. The aerosol supply device 200 includes a housing 205, a memory 210, a controller 220 configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device 200, a control interface 230 for receiving input from the aerosol supply device and providing output from the aerosol supply device 200, a power supply 240 configured to supply power to the operation of the aerosol supply device 200, a reservoir containing liquid aerosol generating material 270, and a heating element 260 configured to heat the aerosol generating material 270. The housing 205 may also at least partially enclose other components of the aerosol supply device 200, namely the memory 210, controller 220, control interface 230, power supply 240, reservoir containing liquid aerosol generating material 270, and heating element 260. The aerosol supply device 200 also includes a nozzle 290 through which a user can draw aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material 270.

[0149] The aerosol supply device 200 is a handheld electronic vapor device, meaning that the housing 205 surrounding other components is sized and configured to be held in the user's hand. In other words, the device is portable. The aerosol supply device 200 is a disposable, single-piece aerosol supply device; the user can discard the aerosol supply device after the aerosol generating material 180 is depleted, and the aerosol supply device 200 is not configured to receive consumables or be refilled by the user.

[0150] Figure 3A schematic cross-sectional view through a two-piece aerosol supply system 3, according to certain embodiments, is shown.

[0151] The aerosol supply system 3 is a two-piece aerosol supply system, comprising an aerosol supply device 300 and a consumable 350 including aerosol generating material 370. The aerosol supply device 300 includes a housing 305, a memory 310, a controller 320 configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply system 3, a control interface 330 for receiving input from the aerosol supply device and providing output from the aerosol supply device 300, a heating assembly including a magnetic field generator 360 configured to generate a varying magnetic field, and a power supply 340 configured to provide electricity for the operation of the aerosol supply device 300. The housing 305 may also at least partially enclose other components of the aerosol supply device 300, namely the controller 320, the control interface 330, the magnetic field generator 360, and the power supply 340. The aerosol supply device 300 is a handheld electronic vapor device, meaning that the housing 305 surrounding the other components is sized and configured to be held in the user's hand. In other words, the device is portable.

[0152] Consumable 350 includes aerosol-generating material 370 in solid or gel form. Consumable 350 is in rod form and is contained within a heating chamber 310 of the aerosol supply device 300. A magnetic field generator 360 is configured such that the heating chamber 310 is heated, and the aerosol-generating material 370 of consumable 350 is within the heating chamber 310. For this purpose, the heating assembly includes a heating element 365 in the consumable, the heating element having a microwave-absorbing material that is easily heated by a changing magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator 360. The magnetic field generator 360 is configured to generate a changing magnetic field that penetrates the heating chamber 310 and the heating element 365 of consumable 350, causing it to be heated, and consequently, heating the aerosol-generating material 370.

[0153] In this arrangement, the consumable includes a nozzle 390 through which the user can draw aerosols generated from the aerosol generating material 370. The aerosol supply device 300 and the consumable 350 do not need to be configured with corresponding interfaces that allow them to be electrically connected to each other, because the electrical connection between them is not used for heating the aerosol generating material 370.

[0154] Figure 4The diagram illustrates a schematic representation of a system comprising an aerosol supply system 4, an external power supply unit 460, local computing units 471, 472, and 473, and a remote computing unit 480. The aerosol supply system 4 includes an aerosol supply device 400 and consumables 450. The aerosol supply device 400 and consumables 450 may possess any of the characteristics of the aforementioned aerosol supply devices 100, 200, and 300 and consumables 150 and 350.

[0155] In this arrangement, remote computing device 480 is a server residing on cloud 490. Aerosol supply system 4 may correspond to any of the aforementioned aerosol supply systems 1, 2, or 3, or any other aerosol supply system. Each of the local computing devices 471, 472, and 473 is interconnected with each other and connected to each of the other devices. Various data connections 40 between each of these devices are depicted, illustrating how data can be sent between any given first and second devices.

[0156] In use, when these data connections 40 are established (using wired or wireless protocols), data can be transmitted from the first device (such as aerosol supply device 400) to the second device (such as remote computing device 480) directly via a direct data connection between the two devices (if it exists) or indirectly via another device or multiple other devices relaying the data.

[0157] In the case of the aerosol supply device 400 and the remote computing device 480, data such as usage data collected by the aerosol supply device can be sent to the remote computing device 480 via a wired data connection. The external power supply device then sends data to a first local computing device 471, which is a smartphone 471, via a wireless data connection. The wireless data connection between the smartphone 471 and the external power supply device 460 is a Bluetooth connection established using the Bluetooth module of the smartphone 471 and the Bluetooth module of the external power supply device 460.

[0158] The smartphone 471 then transmits data to the remote computing device 480 via a wireless data connection. The wireless data connection between the smartphone 471 and the remote computing device 480 is a 3G wireless connection established using the 3G module of the local computing device, which is connected to a corresponding communication node (such as a telecommunications "base station") that provides connectivity to the remote computing device 480.

[0159] The user can also use the network of data connection 40 to perform control actions on the aerosol supply device 400 via their controller. Using an application on a second local computing device 472 (such as a smartphone or personal computer), the user can select control actions, and the personal computer 472 then sends data related to the control actions to the remote computing device 480 via a wired data connection. The remote computing device 480 then uses the aforementioned 3G wireless connection to send the data related to the control actions to the smartphone 471.

[0160] The smartphone 471 then uses the aforementioned Bluetooth connection to send data related to the control action to the external power supply device 460, and the external power supply device 460 then sends the data related to the control action to the aerosol supply device 400 via a wired data connection between the aerosol supply device 400 and the external power supply device 460. The controller of the aerosol supply device 400 receives the data related to the control action and causes the aerosol supply device 400 to perform the control action.

[0161] For aerosol supply devices, such as aerosol supply devices 100, 200, 300, and 400, it is desirable to ensure that the aerosol supply device is operated by an appropriate user. This may be because the specific functions of the aerosol supply device may only be suitable for use by an appropriate user, or within a given jurisdiction, only appropriate users with specific characteristics (e.g., older than an age threshold) may be permitted.

[0162] To achieve this, an aerosol supply device can be sold, wherein the controller is configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a first mode (which may be referred to as the aerosol supply device being "in first mode"), in which specific functions of the aerosol supply device are disabled. After purchasing the aerosol supply device, the user can then perform several steps to verify that they are a proper user of the aerosol supply device, and can then provide the aerosol supply device with an indication that this verification has occurred. In response to receiving this indication, the controller of the aerosol supply device can then switch from controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to the first mode to controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a second mode, in which the specific functions of the aerosol supply device that were disabled in the first mode are enabled.

[0163] For example, in a first mode, the function of the aerosol supply device in generating aerosols from aerosol generating materials can be disabled. In arrangements such as aerosol supply devices 200 and 300 (where at least a portion of the aerosol generator is included in the aerosol supply device), this may be because the function of the aerosol generator (e.g., heating components 220 and 320) is disabled. In arrangements such as aerosol supply device 100 (where at least a portion of the aerosol generator is included in consumables), this may be because the function of the aerosol supply device supplying power to the aerosol generator is disabled. In either case, this function is disabled in the first mode but enabled in the second mode.

[0164] All functions of the aerosol supply device in generating aerosols from any aerosol-generating material can be disabled, or specific functions of the aerosol supply device in generating aerosols from aerosol-generating materials having specific characteristics, such as those detected by a consumable identification sensor, can be disabled. In the first mode, the function of the aerosol supply device in causing the aerosol generator to generate aerosols in a specific manner can be disabled. For example, the function of the aerosol supply device in causing the heating component of the aerosol generator to heat the aerosol-generating material according to one or more heating profiles can be disabled. Furthermore, in the first mode, the function of the aerosol supply device in generating, storing, or transmitting usage data related to the user's use of the aerosol supply device can be disabled. Each or any other of these aspects of functionality can be enabled in the first mode and disabled in the second mode.

[0165] In existing methods, by sending data to the control interface of the aerosol supply device (e.g., using a wired or wireless data connection), an indication that the user has been authenticated as a proper user has been provided to the aerosol supply device. However, conventional wired or wireless data connections, using well-known electromagnetic data protocols, may be vulnerable to attacks that could attempt to mimic the legitimate indication that the user authentication has already occurred. Furthermore, the components required to establish a conventional wired or wireless connection can be energy-intensive and may introduce additional complexity.

[0166] This application seeks to provide an aerosol supply device, which can be improved in this respect. Figure 5An aerosol supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention is depicted. The aerosol supply system 5 is a single-piece aerosol supply device 500, although these techniques are equivalently applicable to any aerosol supply device or aerosol supply system, such as aerosol supply devices 100, 200, and 300. As previously described, the aerosol supply device 500 includes a housing 505, a memory 510, a controller 520 configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device 500, a control interface 530 for receiving inputs from the aerosol supply device 500 and providing outputs from the aerosol supply device 500, a power supply 540 configured to provide electrical power for the operation of the aerosol supply device 500, a reservoir for storing liquid aerosol generating material 570, and a heating assembly 560 configured to heat the aerosol generating material 570. The housing 505 may also at least partially enclose other components of the aerosol supply device 500, namely, the memory 510, controller 520, control interface 530, power supply 540, reservoir containing liquid aerosol generating material 570, and heating assembly 560. The aerosol supply device 500 also includes a nozzle 590 through which a user can draw aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material 570.

[0167] The aerosol supply device 500 is a disposable, single-use aerosol supply device 500, which is not configured to be refillable by the user. Therefore, once the aerosol generating material has been depleted (e.g., after a predetermined number of inhalations), the user can discard the aerosol supply device 500. Furthermore, the single-use aerosol supply device 500 is a non-rechargeable single-use aerosol supply device and does not include a charging interface for receiving power from an external power source. However, other arrangements are contemplated in which the single-use aerosol supply device is rechargeable and has a charging interface for receiving power from an external source. The aerosol supply device 500 may include any or all of the features of the aerosol supply device 200, and repeated descriptions of some features are omitted.

[0168] The control interface 530 includes one or more input components 580 configured to receive physical input and provide input data corresponding to the received input to the controller 520. As will be discussed in more detail, these one or more input components 580 can receive input indicating that a user has been verified as an appropriate user of the aerosol supply device 500. By using the one or more input components 580 configured to receive physical input, the aerosol supply device 500 can receive input for switching to the correct mode for the appropriate user after verification of the user as an appropriate user, without using conventional wired or wireless data connections employing well-known electromagnetic data protocols. In this way, the aerosol supply device 500 can be protected against attacks that could seek to exploit these data protocols. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device 500 does not necessarily require (although, if desired in a particular embodiment, may still include) a corresponding wired or wireless communication module, which can reduce energy requirements and complexity. As described above, these technologies can be applied to any aerosol supply device 100, 200, 300, in which case the corresponding control interfaces 130, 230, 330 may also include one or more input components configured to receive physical input in the same manner, and a controller that can be configured in the same manner as controller 520.

[0169] Now refer to Figure 6 The flowchart describes a method for providing input to switch modes of the aerosol supply device 500. Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating the method according to certain embodiments is shown.

[0170] In step S1-1, a user who owns or intends to purchase the aerosol supply device in the first mode logs in or creates a (digital) user profile using a local computing device. Although any suitable additional device discussed above may be used, the local computing device may be a smartphone or computer, such as any of local computing devices 471, 472, 473, or any other type of local computing device from which the user can input the data necessary to log in or create a user profile. Specifically, the user may use an application on the local computing device to log in to their user profile by submitting a username and password, or to create a user profile by submitting user information such as their name, email address, mailing address, and password.

[0171] The user account is associated with the aforementioned verification of the user as the appropriate user and is stored on an authorized computing device. The authorized computing device may be a remote computing device, such as remote computing device 480 on cloud 490. The authorized computing device may include multiple computing devices in an arrangement, such as a network of computing devices. The authorized computing device is controlled by the manufacturer of aerosol supply device 500, or an entity operating with or on behalf of the manufacturer, to perform user verification as the appropriate user. The authorized computing device has the authority to indicate that verification has occurred and generates the necessary inputs provided to aerosol supply device 500, which allows controller 520 to switch from controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a first mode to a second mode.

[0172] The local computing device can use any of the data connections discussed above (such as those related to...). Figure 4 The methods discussed involve communicating data with an authorized computing device. For example, in the case where the local computing device is a smartphone and the authorized computing device is a remote computing device (such as a server), the local computing device can communicate data with the authorized computing device via a wireless data connection (such as a 3G, 4G, or 5G wireless connection) established using the local computing device's 3G, 4G, or 5G module and connected to a corresponding communication node (such as a telecommunications "base station"), which provides the connection to the remote computing device. As another example, the local computing device can connect to the Internet via a wireless data connection and communicate with the authorized computing device through the Internet; this wireless data connection is a WiFi connection established using the local computing device's WiFi module.

[0173] In steps S1-2, the user submits materials for verification as an appropriate user of the aerosol supply device via their user profile using a local computing device, to be sent to the authorized computing device. These materials may include an image or video of the user and / or one or more user identification documents (such as a passport or ID card). For example, the user may use the camera on the local computing device to capture an image or video of themselves and images of one or more user identification documents, or alternatively, they may upload pre-captured images stored on the local computing device. Once the user has submitted such verification materials for their appropriate use as an aerosol supply device via their profile, the local computing device then sends the materials to the authorized computing device.

[0174] While steps S1-1 and S1-2 have been discussed above regarding methods whereby a user uses a local computing device to create or log in to a user account and submit materials for verification as a proper user, other methods are also envisioned. For example, in cases where the authorized computing device is operated by an authorized person (such as an employee of a retailer or manufacturer of an aerosol supply device), the user could provide details to the authorized person in step S1-1 so that they can create or log in to a user account on the authorized computing device, and the user could directly provide the authorized person with materials for their verification in step S1-2, or provide the authorized person with a physical or digital copy of an image or video from which the authorized person could obtain it.

[0175] In steps S1-3, the authorized computing device evaluates materials to determine one or more characteristics of the user, or the materials may be provided to authorized personnel to determine one or more characteristics of the user. These one or more characteristics may include the user's age or other medical or non-medical characteristics. One or more characteristics may be stored by the authorized computing device and associated with the user's user profile. The authorized computing device can then use one or more characteristics to verify that the user is a suitable user for a specific function of the aerosol supply device 500 (such as the function of the aerosol supply device 500 generating aerosols, or any of the other functions discussed above). In some methods, one or more characteristics may be used to verify that the user is a suitable user of a set of aerosol supply devices in a specific jurisdiction.

[0176] We note that while steps S1-1, S1-2, and S1-3 can be performed before the user possesses the aerosol supply device, they can also be performed after the user possesses the aerosol supply device. Specifically, by performing these steps, the user can be prompted to verify their own legitimacy by attempting to use the aerosol supply device in the first mode. For example, a user attempting to use the aerosol supply device 500 with disabled functions can receive output from the control interface. In other words, the controller 520 can be configured to send an alarm output indicating that verification of the user's legitimacy is required when controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device 500 according to the first mode, and when receiving input data from the control interface 530 corresponding to instructions for performing control actions (including functions disabled in the first mode). The alarm output can be provided using the communication circuitry of the control interface 530 by sending the alarm output to another device (e.g., a local computing device, such as a smartphone), or it can be provided using one or more output components of the control interface (such as haptic components or one or more lights).

[0177] Next, in step S2-1, the user submits a mode-switching request via a user profile using a local computing device to switch from the aerosol supply device 500 to the second mode. The local computing device sends the mode-switching request to the authorized computing device, providing the aerosol supply device 500 with input indicating the switch from the first mode to the second mode, signifying that user verification as the appropriate user of the aerosol supply device has occurred. While this request can be made using the same local computing device as discussed with respect to steps S1-1, S1-2, and S1-3, it is not necessary, and the local computing device used in this step and subsequent steps can be different. However, all the same options for selecting the local computing device and for data communication between the local computing device and the remote device can still be applied to S2-1 and subsequent steps.

[0178] The mode switching request includes an identifier for the aerosol supply device 500, which is submitted to the local computing device. The identifier can be a unique identifier for the aerosol supply device 500 stored in memory 510, such as a unique code. This unique identifier can be generated during the manufacturing process of the aerosol supply device 500, as per the relevant documentation. Figure 7 Further details can be discussed and stored in memory 510 and the memory of the authorized computing device.

[0179] The aerosol supply device 500 may include an identifier portion representing an identifier. This identifier portion is visible to the user and visually represents the identifier, and may be, for example, disposed on a housing 505. For example, the identifier portion may include an optical code (such as a barcode or QR code) in which the identifier is encoded, and the identifier can be read by a local computing device to submit the identifier to the local computing device. In other methods, the identifier portion may include a readable representation of the identifier, such as text, wherein the identifier is readable from written text to the user and can therefore be submitted to the local computing device. In other methods, the identifier portion may be an RFID tag, and the identifier is submitted to the local computing device by querying the local computing device (or other computing device) to confirm that the identifier is readable from the RFID tag. Along with the identifier, the mode switching request may include information about the user and may include a timestamp for the time the request was sent by the local computing device.

[0180] An arrangement is also envisioned in which one or more input components 580 are disposed on the input component portion of the aerosol supply device 500. The input component portion of the aerosol supply device 500 can be manufactured separately and, after separate manufacturing, connected to the remaining portion of the aerosol supply device 500. In such a case, at least a portion of the memory 510 can be disposed in the input component portion, and at least a portion of the controller 520 can similarly be disposed in the input component portion. One or more input components 580 may also have corresponding input component identifiers, which may have the same characteristics as the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500, but may have different values, and serve as identifiers for one or more input components 580. These input component identifiers can be stored in the portion of the memory 510 disposed in the input component portion, and may have been generated during the manufacturing of the input component portion 580.

[0181] In step S2-2, the authorized computing device receives a mode switching request from the local computing device and generates input to be provided to the aerosol supply device 500 as an indication that user verification has occurred in S1-3. To ensure that the input is applicable to the aerosol supply device 500 and not to other unintended aerosol supply devices, the input may be generated by the authorized computing device and associated with an identifier. For example, the input may be generated by the authorized computing device such that it has a testable association with the identifier of the aerosol supply device. To prevent the aerosol supply device 500 from switching from the first mode to the second mode due to forged input generated by an unauthorized computing device, the authorized computing device may also generate the input in such a way that the controller 520 of the aerosol supply device 500 can determine that it was generated by the authorized computing device (and not a different unauthorized computing device).

[0182] The authorized computing device can use various techniques to generate inputs associated with identifiers, and similarly, various techniques can be used to generate inputs in a manner recognizable to the controller 520 and generated by the authorized computing device. Methods that can be used in step S2-2 to achieve inputs associated with identifiers and originating from one or both of these authentication purposes of the authorized computing device will now be discussed.

[0183] To generate input associated with an identifier, the authorized computing device can generate input containing information (e.g., encoded information) by applying predetermined software functions to the identifier received in the mode switching request. This can be done while understanding that the controller 520 is also configured with corresponding predetermined software functions that can be applied to the information in the input to determine whether it was generated by the authorized computing device using the identifier. In other words, the controller 520 can be configured to apply corresponding predetermined software functions to the information in the input to determine whether the information was generated by applying predetermined software functions to the identifier. In some cases, the method can cause the controller 520 to be configured to "reverse engineer" the identifier from the information in the received input and compare the identifier with an identifier stored in memory 510.

[0184] These authentication methods may include using a first key stored in memory 510 of the aerosol supply device 500 and a second key stored in memory of the authorized computing device. Both the first and second keys are cryptographic keys; in the context of this invention, the term "cryptographic key" refers to a string of information (typically consisting of letters and / or numbers) to which software functionality can be applied for authentication. Each of the first and second keys may be a string of as few as three characters (e.g., a code), although in most cases more characters are used, such as more than five or more than ten. The first and second keys are cryptographically associated with each other such that each key corresponds to the other key, and one key can be used to test whether the other key has been used to generate information (e.g., the information includes another key). In techniques using the first and second keys, the authorized computing device can typically use the second key to generate input. Once the aerosol supply device 500 receives input, the controller 520 can use the first key to test whether the corresponding second key of the authorized computing device was used to generate the input. In methods where the first key of the aerosol supply device 500 can be used to test whether the input was generated by the authorized computing device, it can be said that the information in the input is cryptographically associated with the first key of the aerosol supply device 500.

[0185] In a method known as "asymmetric" (or "public-key") cryptography, the first key of the aerosol supply device 500 is the public key, and the second key of the authorized computing device is the corresponding private key. The public key is generally available to the public without compromising the integrity of the cryptographic technique, while the private key remains confidential. In this case, the input is generated by the authorized computing device using the private key. For example, the input can be generated by applying software functionality to the private key, resulting in the input being considered cryptographically "signed" by the private key. Once the aerosol supply device 500 receives the input, the controller 520 can use the first key, which serves as the public key, to test whether the private key (i.e., the second key) of the authorized computing device was used to generate the information in the input. If the test confirms the use of the second key, the controller 520 can be considered to have authenticated that the input originated from the authorized computing device (rather than from a different unauthorized source).

[0186] Using this technique alone, it should be noted that the same second key, serving as the private key, can be used by an authorized computing device to generate inputs for various aerosol supply devices, each of which can use the same public key as the first key to verify this key. In such a case, where the same private key is used to generate inputs for various aerosol supply devices, this technique alone may not be sufficient to confirm that the input is associated with the identifier of a specific aerosol supply device 500. Thus, this technique can be combined with the techniques described above for authenticating the association of inputs with identifiers, where inputs are generated by applying a predetermined software function to the identifier. Therefore, in this method, by applying a predetermined software function to both the identifier and the private key, an authorized computing device can generate inputs that depend on both the identifier and the private key of the authorized computing device.

[0187] In another method known as "symmetric" (or "secret key") cryptography, the first key of the aerosol supply device 500 is a private key, and the second key of the authorizing computing device is a corresponding pass key, which is associated with an identifier of the aerosol supply device 500 in the memory of the authorizing computing device. The authorizing computing device can thus store a pass key library in memory, where each pass key is associated with an identifier of the corresponding aerosol supply device, and each pass key matches the private key of the corresponding aerosol supply device. It should be noted that the term "match" here does not necessarily mean that the private key and the corresponding pass key are the same (although they can be the same in this method), but rather that there can be a functional (e.g., mathematical) correspondence between the pass key and the private key, such as a one-to-one correspondence, for example, as tested by the controller 520. In this method, to generate input, the authorizing computing device uses the identifier in a mode switching request to select the pass key associated with the identifier in memory and generates an input including the pass key. Then, when input is received via aerosol supply device 500, controller 520 can be configured to test whether the pass key contained in the input meets a predetermined criterion by using a first key of aerosol supply device 500 to test whether the pass key matches the first key.

[0188] In this symmetric cryptographic method, if the controller 520 indeed determines through testing that the pass key in the input corresponds to the first key of the aerosol supply device 500, it can be considered that the input was generated using the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500 (i.e., the input is associated with the aerosol supply device 500), and that the input was generated by an authorized computing device, since the authorized computing device can access the pass key library associated with the identifier of the aerosol supply device. Thus, it is considered that when the input includes a pass key corresponding to the private key of the aerosol supply device 500, the input is associated with the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500. In a particular version of this method, the first key (i.e., the private key) and the second key (i.e., the pass key) are the same, and therefore, the controller can be configured to test whether the pass key of the input is the same as the first key of the aerosol supply device 500. In this method, the processing requirements of the controller 520 can be reduced. It should be noted that although each pass key can be matched with the private key of one aerosol supply device, methods are also envisioned for each pass key to be matched with multiple private keys of multiple corresponding aerosol supply devices.

[0189] In the method of including an input component portion in the aerosol supply device 500, an authorization computing device may store an association between an identifier of the aerosol supply device 500, an input component identifier, and a second key. Furthermore, a first key of the aerosol supply device 500 may be stored in a portion of the memory 510 of the input component portion. When a mode switching request including the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500 is received, the authorization computing device then identifies the associated input component identifier and the associated second key. Using the associated second key, the authorization computing device may generate an input corresponding to the first key, and after this input is received by one or more input components 580 of the input component portion, it may be evaluated by a portion of the controller 520 in the input component portion, for example, using predetermined tests discussed in detail below.

[0190] Next, in steps S2-3, once the authorized computing device (using the methods described above or any other method) has generated the input, the authorized computing system sends the input to the local computing device. This can be done using any connection between the authorized computing system and the local computing device discussed above, and the local computing device can be configured to notify the user that input has been received in response to the input being received.

[0191] Then, in steps S2-4, once the local computing device receives the input, the input can be provided to one or more input components 580 of the control interface 530 of the aerosol supply device 500. This input can be considered an indication that verification of the user as a proper user of the aerosol supply device has occurred, although explicit labeling of the input is not required in this regard. In practice, the process of providing input to the aerosol supply device 500 can vary depending on whether the input is in the form of a physical input, as will be seen below. Figure 8 To be discussed in more detail.

[0192] In step S3-1, the aerosol supply device receives input through one or more input components 580 of the control interface 530 and provides the input data corresponding to the input to the controller 520. The controller 520 is then configured to decode the information encoded in the input, which may involve different methods depending on how the input is provided, as discussed below. Once the information in the input is identified in the controller, the controller is configured to determine whether the input passes a predetermined test, i.e., whether the information is associated with the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500. If this is determined, the test is passed, and it can be concluded that the input is intended for use with the aerosol supply device 500, and not with another aerosol supply device. More generally, passing the test indicates that verification as a suitable user has occurred.

[0193] In one approach, the predetermined test may include determining whether the information in the input was generated by applying a specific predetermined software function to the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500. It should be understood that when manufacturing the aerosol supply device 500, it is known that the information in the input is generated by the application of software functions, and therefore the corresponding predetermined software functions are also implemented in the controller 520. In this case, by applying the predetermined software function to the information in the input by the controller 520 of the aerosol supply device 500, the controller 250 can use the identifier to determine whether the input was generated (e.g., by an authorized computing device). As discussed above, regarding step S2-2, the controller 520 may "reverse engineer" the identifier from the information in the input to check that the identifier is the same as the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500, although this is not always the case.

[0194] As discussed above, it is also desirable to confirm that the input originates from an authorized computing device (i.e., generated by an authorized computing device) and not from a different unauthorized source. In this case, if it is determined that the information in the input was generated by an authorized computing device, it can pass a predetermined test. In other words, to determine whether the input passes the predetermined test, the controller 520 can also be configured to determine whether the information was generated by an authorized computing device. For this purpose, the controller 520 can be configured to determine whether the information was generated by an authorized computing device by testing whether the information has a cryptographic association with a first key of the aerosol supply device, which is possible only if the information was generated using the corresponding cryptographic key of the authorized computing device.

[0195] In one approach, the “asymmetric” cryptographic techniques discussed above can be applied, in which the input is generated by an authorized computing device using a second key (which is a private key) of the authorized computing device. In this approach, a first key, which is a public key corresponding to the private key, is stored in the memory 510 of the aerosol supply device 500. As discussed above, the information in the input can be generated using the private key (e.g., the information can be “signed” using the private key), and the first key (which is a public key) can be used to test this. Thus, the controller 520 is configured to use the first key, which is a public key, to test whether the corresponding private key of the authorized computing device was used to generate the information in the input. If the test determines that the corresponding private key was used, the input can be considered verified as originating from the authorized computing device. The method can also be combined with the methods discussed above for determining whether the information in the input is associated with an identifier, in which case the predetermined test includes the controller both applying predetermined software functions to the information in the input to determine whether the information was generated by applying the corresponding predetermined software functions to the identifier, and using the public key to test whether the private key was used to generate the information in the input.

[0196] In one approach, the predetermined test includes determining whether the information in the input includes a pass key (i.e., a second key of the authorized computing device) that meets a specific criterion. This typically includes applying software functionality to the pass key via controller 520 and determining whether the result indicates that the pass key matches a first key (e.g., a private key) stored in memory 510 of aerosol supply device 500. If controller 520 does determine that the pass key in the input corresponds to the first key of aerosol supply device 500, it can be considered that the input was generated using the identifier of aerosol supply device 500 (i.e., the input is associated with aerosol supply device 500) and that the input was generated by an authorized computing device. In a particular version of this approach, the first key (i.e., the private key) and the second key (i.e., the pass key) are the same, and therefore, the controller can be configured to test whether the pass key of the input is the same as the first key of aerosol supply device 500. In this approach, the processing requirements of controller 520 can be reduced.

[0197] Thus, while the pre-test can authenticate that the information in the input is associated with an identifier, and also that the information in the input is generated by an authorized computing device, it is also conceivable that the pre-test authenticates that the information in the input is generated by an authorized computing device, without necessarily authenticating that the information is associated with an identifier of the aerosol supply device 500. Each of these authentications performed by the controller 520 provides a level of security regarding the verification of the user as an appropriate user of the aerosol supply device, and depending on the implementation, using one or both of these authentications may be advantageous.

[0198] Regardless of the method used, step S3-2 occurs once it is determined that the information in the input passes the predetermined test. In step S3-2, the controller 520 switches from controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device 500 according to a first mode to controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device 500 according to a second mode. As discussed above, the mode switching may involve enabling a specific function that is disabled in the first mode and enabled in the second mode.

[0199] Once the controller 520 has switched to operating the aerosol supply device 500 according to the second mode, the controller 520 can be configured to continue controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to the second mode (i.e., indefinitely). In such an approach, switching from the first mode to the second mode can be considered a “one-time” activation of the aerosol supply device’s functionality. However, in other approaches, the controller can be configured to switch back from operating the aerosol supply device according to the second mode to operating the aerosol supply device according to the first mode in response to events such as the passage of a period of time (e.g., a predetermined time period, or the arrival of a specific time event), reaching a threshold number of aerosols inhaled by the aerosol supply device 500 as detected by the suction sensor, the device reaching a predetermined position, or the loss of a wired or wireless data connection (e.g., a Bluetooth connection) established with another device. The controller can also be configured to switch back from operating the aerosol supply device according to the second mode to operating the aerosol supply device according to the first mode in response to receiving input data from the control interface corresponding to a command to switch back from the second mode to the first mode.

[0200] After switching back to the first mode from the second mode, it may be necessary to repeat some or all of the steps discussed above. For example, the user may have to perform steps S1-1 through S3-2, or steps S2-1 through S3-2 within the method. In any case, another mode-switching request will need to be sent to the authorized computing device, after which another input will be generated and sent from the authorized computing device. However, the input generated by the authorized computing device can be time-dependent, such that each input generated differs from the last (e.g., all previous) input generated for the user profile in question. The controller may also require different input each time to pass a predetermined test, ensuring that the user re-authenticates themselves as the appropriate user. This can be particularly advantageous as it will accommodate changes in user characteristics and regulatory requirements of the jurisdiction.

[0201] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing an aerosol supply device 500 according to certain embodiments is shown. While it is noted that the method may involve the physical construction and modification of components of the aerosol supply device 500, this is not necessarily the case; instead, manufacturing may involve only the creation of a data-based structure. Furthermore, although the method is discussed in the context of aerosol supply device 500, the method can also be applied to aerosol supply devices 100, 200, 300, or any other aerosol supply device.

[0202] In step S1, an identifier is generated for the aerosol supply device 500. This can be generated as a unique identifier, such as an incrementing serial number for each new aerosol supply device being manufactured. Alternatively, this can be a randomly generated identifier, for example, with a sufficiently high degree of randomness that the possibility of multiple aerosol supply devices having the same identifier is impossible.

[0203] Then, in step S2, the aerosol supply device 500 is provided with an identifier. As discussed above, this can be stored in the memory 510 of the aerosol supply device 500. Alternatively, as in this embodiment, the controller 520 does not need to access the identifier, and the identifier may not be stored in the memory 510. As discussed above, the identifier can be provided by providing an identifier portion representing the identifier to the aerosol supply device 500. The identifier portion can be configured such that a user or computing device can read the identifier from the identifier portion.

[0204] In step S3, a first key is generated as the encryption key. As discussed above, this can be a short string and can be either a private key or a public key. Then, in step S4, the first key is stored in the memory 510 of the aerosol supply device 500 for later use in the verification input as discussed above.

[0205] In step S5, a second key (which is an encryption key) is then generated and cryptographically associated with the first key, and in step S6, the second key is stored in the memory of the authorized computing device. As mentioned above, the second key can also be a short string. In some methods, such as when the first key is a public key, the second key is a private key, which can be used by the authorized computing device to generate inputs (e.g., for various aerosol supply devices), and its use can be tested by the controller using the public key. In some methods, such as when the first key is a private key, the second key is a pass key specifically for the first key of the aerosol supply device 500, and the pass key matches the first key of the aerosol supply device 500. In such cases, the second key is stored in the memory of the authorized computing device in association with the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500, so that it can be selected from a pass key library by the authorized computing device.

[0206] In an arrangement where one or more input components 580 are arranged in an identifier component portion of the aerosol supply device 500, the identifier component portion includes a corresponding input component identifier. Thus, step S1 may further include generating input component identifiers for one or more input components 580 of the aerosol supply device, and in step S2, providing the input component identifiers to a portion of the memory 510 in the identifier component portion. In such a case, in step S4, a first key is also stored in a portion of the identifier component of the memory 510. Then, in step S5, a second key is stored in the memory of the authorized computing device in association with the input component identifiers, and when the input component portion is subsequently connected to the remainder of the aerosol supply device 500, the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500 may be associated with the input component identifiers in the memory of the authorized computing device, and the result may then also be associated with the second key.

[0207] Therefore, in this method using (e.g., separately manufactured) the input component portion, when the input component portion is connected to the remainder of the aerosol supply device 500 and the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500 is associated with the input component identifier, it is not required that anyone have visibility of the second key in the memory of the authorized computing device. Thus, no one can know both the identifier of the aerosol supply device 500 and the second key, which provides additional security.

[0208] Now refer to Figure 8 The manner in which input is provided to the input component 580 of the aerosol supply device 500 is discussed in detail (occurring in S2-4). The input component 580 is configured to receive physical input including a user's physical manipulation sequence.

[0209] Input component 580 is an index dial 580. The index dial 580 includes a rotatable component 582. The index dial 580 includes a button 584. The rotatable component 582 is annular. The button 584 is circular. The rotatable component 582 surrounds the button 584. The rotatable component 582 completely encloses the button 584.

[0210] Input component 580 is located at one end of aerosol supply device 500. Input component 580 is located at the distal end of aerosol supply device 500 opposite to the port end. Input component 580 provides an end face of aerosol supply device 500. Input component 580 provides a flat end face. Rotatable component 582 is flat. Button 584 is flat.

[0211] The cross-sectional shape of the input component 580 is consistent with the cross-sectional shape of the housing 505 of the aerosol supply device 500 (e.g., having the same cross-sectional shape). Both the housing 505 and the input component 580 have circular cross-sections. The rotatable component 582 has a cross-sectional shape that matches the cross-sectional shape of the housing 505.

[0212] The index dial 580 includes a scale 586 to indicate the value to be input by the input component 580 when the index dial (rotatable component) is in a specific position. The scale 586 includes a series of numerical values. These values ​​are separated by boundaries, with a single value located between a pair of boundaries. The boundaries thus indicate multiple discrete positions providing input. In this example, each discrete position corresponds to a discrete value to be input. The housing 505 of the aerosol dispensing device includes an indicator 588 (in the form of an arrow). Together, the scale 586 and the indicator 588 indicate to the user the value to be input to the input component 580, where the indicator 588 points to the value to be input on the scale 586. In other instances, the positions of the scale and indicator may be reversed, where the indicator is movable and the scale is fixed. Any indexing arrangement that associates the input value with the discrete positions of the dial can be used. The index dial can also be configured to provide tactile feedback to the user as the index dial moves between discrete positions, but this is not required.

[0213] Index dial 580 includes an air inlet 590 for aerosol supply device 500. Air inlet 590 includes an opening 592 in a rotatable member 582. Opening 592 is an arcuate slit extending in a tangential direction defined relative to the longitudinal axis of the device. Air inlet 590 includes an additional opening 594. The additional opening includes the same features as opening 592 but is tangentially displaced from opening 592. Air inlet 590 allows air to enter aerosol supply device 500 when the user inhales, thereby allowing aerosol generation.

[0214] Steps S2-4 involve presenting instructions to the user from a local computing device for performing physical manipulations. The local computing device may visually and / or audibly instruct the user on how to provide input to one or more input components 580 of the aerosol supply device 500. These instructions include manipulation sequences.

[0215] In this example, the manipulation sequence includes a code to be input to the aerosol supply device 500. Therefore, in steps S2-4, the local computing device transmits the code to the user. The code includes a series of values. To input a value, the user moves the index dial 580 (in this example, by rotating the rotatable component 582) to a discrete position corresponding to the value. The discrete position corresponds to the value when the indicator 588 aligns with the value on the scale 586. Then, before moving the index dial 580 to the next discrete position to input the next value, the user presses button 584 to input the value.

[0216] The input is encoded with information that allows the user to provide information to the aerosol supply device 500, and the information can be decoded by the controller 520 to decode the information in the input for performing a predetermined test. In a simple example, the predetermined test may include determining whether the code included in the input matches a code stored in the aerosol supply device, wherein the stored code is the first key mentioned above.

[0217] The index dial 580 can be used to provide other inputs to the aerosol supply device 500 (e.g., not involving determining whether the user is the appropriate user). In some examples, the rotatable component and the button can be integrally formed, wherein both components can be rotated and pushed to input values.

[0218] The various embodiments described herein are provided only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, 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 the equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be used 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, parts, 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, comprising: The controller is configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device; as well as The control interface includes an input component configured to receive input, wherein the input component is an index dial configured to be rotated by a user between multiple discrete positions to provide the input. The control interface is configured to provide input data corresponding to the input to the controller. The controller is configured as follows: Receive input data; In response to receiving the input data, determine whether the input passes a predetermined test; and In response to determining that the input has passed the predetermined test, the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the first mode is switched to the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the second mode.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The index dial has a different value associated with each discrete position.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 2, wherein, The input component also includes a button, wherein the input data includes multiple discrete positions where the dial is reached and the button is pressed.

4. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein, The button includes a dial.

5. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The input component is configured to receive a value associated with the position of the index dial in response to actuation of the button.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The input component is configured to receive codes.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, In the first mode, a specific function of the aerosol supply device is disabled; in the second mode, the specific function is enabled. The specific function includes the function of the aerosol supply device generating aerosols.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The user has been verified as an appropriate user through the predetermined test instructions.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and comprising an identifier, wherein, The predetermined test includes determining that the information in the input is associated with the identifier of the aerosol supply device.

10. The aerosol supply device according to claim 9, wherein, In order to determine whether the input passes the predetermined test, the controller is configured to determine whether to use the identifier of the aerosol supply device to generate the information.

11. The aerosol supply device according to claim 10, wherein, The controller is configured to determine whether the information is generated using the identifier of the aerosol supply device by determining whether predetermined software functions are applied to the identifier to generate the information.

12. The aerosol supply device according to claim 11, wherein, The controller is configured to determine whether the information was generated using the identifier of the aerosol supply device by testing whether a first key of the aerosol supply device matches a second key, the second key being a pass key included in the information in the input.

13. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein, The identifier is a unique identifier for the aerosol supply device.

14. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 9 to 13, and comprising an identifier portion indicating the identifier, wherein, The aerosol supply device includes a housing, wherein the identifier is readable by the user and / or the local computing device.

15. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The index dial is located at one end of the aerosol supply device.

16. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The aerosol supply device is a single-piece aerosol supply device, which is not configured to receive consumables including aerosol generating materials.

17. An aerosol supply system, comprising: The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 15; as well as Consumables, including aerosol-generating materials.

18. A system comprising: The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 16; as well as An additional device, wherein the additional device is configured to transmit the input to a user, such that the user can provide the input to the input component.

19. The system of claim 18, further comprising an authorized computing device, wherein, The authorized computing device is configured to generate the input in response to receiving a mode switching request including an identifier of the aerosol supply device, and to send the input to the additional device.

20. A controller configured to control the operation of an aerosol supply device, wherein, The controller is configured to: Input data is received from the control interface of the aerosol supply device, the input data corresponding to input received by an input component of the control interface, wherein the input component is an index dial configured to be rotated by a user between multiple discrete positions to provide the input; In response to receiving the input data, determine whether the input passes a predetermined test; and In response to determining that the input has passed the predetermined test, the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the first mode is switched to the operation of the aerosol supply device controlled according to the second mode.

21. A method for an aerosol supply device, comprising: Provides an aerosol supply device and a controller configured to control the operation of the aerosol supply device; Input is detected by an input component of the control interface of the aerosol supply device, wherein the input component is an index dial configured to be rotated by the user between multiple discrete positions to provide the input; The control interface provides input data corresponding to the input to the controller. The controller receives the input data. In response to receiving the input data, the controller determines whether the input passes a predetermined test; and In response to determining that the input has passed the predetermined test, the controller switches from controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a first mode to controlling the operation of the aerosol supply device according to a second mode.

22. The method of claim 21, comprising: If verification of a user as an appropriate user of the aerosol supply device has occurred, the authorization computing device generates input to provide the aerosol supply device with an indication that verification of the user as an appropriate user of the aerosol supply device has occurred, and The input is sent from the authorized computing device to the local computing device.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein, Generating the input includes the authorized computing device generating the input using the identifier of the aerosol supply device, such that the information in the input has a testable association with the identifier of the aerosol supply device.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein, The input is generated by the authorized computing device by selecting a pass key associated with the identifier of the aerosol supply device in the memory of the authorized computing device, and the input is generated such that the information in the input includes the pass key.

25. A method for manufacturing an aerosol supply device, comprising: Generate identifiers for the aerosol supply device; The identifier is provided to the aerosol supply device, and the identifier is stored in the memory of the authorized computing device; Generate a first key for the aerosol supply device; The first key is stored in the memory of the aerosol supply device; Generate a second key for the authorized computing device, wherein the second key is cryptographically associated with the first key; The second key is stored in the memory of the authorized computing device.

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