Controlling operation of electronic cigarette

Abstract

The invention provides controlling the operation of an electronic cigarette. According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling the operation of an electronic cigarette. The method may include determining a total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate an amount of liquid stored in a reservoir of an electronic cigarette. The method may include determining a total amount of atomizer power delivered to an atomizer associated with the electronic cigarette during a time period. The method may include determining an amount of liquid remaining in a reservoir of the electronic cigarette based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of atomizer power delivered to the atomizer during the time period.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on July 24, 2017, with application number 201710606053.1 and invention title "Controlling the Operation of Electronic Cigarettes". Technical Field

[0002] This invention generally relates to electronic smoking devices, and more particularly to electronic cigarettes. Background Technology

[0003] Electronic vaping devices, such as electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), generally have a housing that houses a power source (e.g., a disposable or rechargeable battery, an electronic plug, or other power source) and an electronically operable atomizer. The atomizer vaporizes or atomizes liquid supplied from a reservoir and provides the vaporized or atomized liquid as an aerosol. Control electronics control the activation of the atomizer. In some e-cigarettes, an airflow sensor is located in the e-vaping device that detects when the user inhales (e.g., by sensing insufficient pressure or the airflow pattern through the device). The airflow sensor instructs or signals the control electronics to inhale in order to power the device and produce vapor. In other e-cigarettes, a switch is used to power the e-cigarette to produce a stream of vapor. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the invention, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided comprising computer-executable instructions for controlling an atomizer of an electronic cigarette. The instructions can be executed to determine characteristics associated with the electronic cigarette based on data stored in a memory portion of the electronic cigarette's reservoir. In various embodiments, the instructions can be executed to determine the flow rate of air supplied to the atomizer based on signals received from a mass airflow sensor. In various embodiments, the instructions can be executed to determine the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on said characteristics and the airflow rate.

[0005] According to one aspect of the invention, a method for controlling the operation of an electronic cigarette is provided. The method may include determining the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a certain quantity of liquid stored in a reservoir of the electronic cigarette. The method may include determining the total amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to an atomizer associated with the electronic cigarette during a time period. The method may include determining the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period.

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a system for controlling the operation of an electronic cigarette is provided. The system may include a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium including computer-executable instructions executable by the processor. The instructions may be executed to determine the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a certain amount of liquid stored in a reservoir of the electronic cigarette. The instructions may be executed to determine the amount of electrical energy supplied to the atomizer of the electronic cigarette based on received data. The instructions may be executed to supply the determined amount of electrical energy to the atomizer. The instructions may be executed to determine the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of electrical energy supplied to the atomizer during a specific time period.

[0007] The features, characteristics, and advantages of the invention, and the ways in which they are obtained, will become more apparent and clearer from the following description of exemplary embodiments explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0008] In the accompanying drawings, the same component numbers indicate the same components in each view:

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary electronic cigarette;

[0010] Figure 2 This is a diagram of a system related to an exemplary electronic cigarette;

[0011] Figure 3 This is a method flowchart depicting a method for controlling an exemplary electronic cigarette;

[0012] Figure 4A This is a diagram of a system for controlling the operation of an exemplary electronic cigarette;

[0013] Figure 4B This is a diagram of a computing device used to control the operation of an electronic cigarette. Detailed Implementation

[0014] Throughout this text, electronic smoking devices will be described exemplarily with reference to electronic cigarettes. Figure 1 As shown, the electronic cigarette 10 generally has a housing including a cylindrical hollow tube, the cylindrical hollow tube having an end cap 12. The cylindrical hollow tube can be a single-part or multi-part tube. Figure 1 In the diagram, the cylindrical hollow tube is shown as a two-part structure having a power supply section 14 and an atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16. The power supply section 14 and the atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16 together form a cylindrical tube, which can be a cylindrical tube of approximately the same size and shape as a conventional cigarette with a diameter of approximately 7.5 mm and a diameter of approximately 100 mm, although the length can range from 70 to 150 or 180 mm, and the diameter from 5 to 28 mm.

[0015] The power supply section 14 and the atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16 are generally made of metal (such as steel or aluminum or durable plastic) and, together with the end cap 12, serve to provide a housing for accommodating the components of the electronic cigarette 10. The power supply section 14 and the atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16 can be configured to engage together by, for example, friction push-fit, snap-fit, pin attachment, magnetic engagement, or screw thread. The end cap 12 is located at the front end of the power supply section 14. The end cap 12 may be made of translucent plastic or other translucent material to allow a light-emitting diode (LED) 18 located near the end cap to emit light through it. Alternatively, the end cap may be made of metal or other materials that do not allow light to pass through.

[0016] The air inlet can be located in the end cap, at the edge of the inlet close to the cylindrical hollow tube, anywhere along the length of the cylindrical hollow tube, or at the connection between the power supply section 14 and the atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16. Figure 1 A pair of air inlets 20 are shown at the intersection between the power supply section 14 and the atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16.

[0017] A power source (preferably battery 22), an LED 18, control electronics 24, and an optional airflow sensor 26 are disposed within the cylindrical hollow tube power supply section 14. The battery 22 is electrically connected to the control electronics 24, which in turn is electrically connected to the LED 18 and the airflow sensor 26. In this example, the LED 18 is located at the front end of the power supply section 14 adjacent to the end cap 12; and the control electronics 24 and the airflow sensor 26 are disposed in a central cavity at the other end of the battery 22 adjacent to the atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16.

[0018] The airflow sensor 26 acts as a vaping detector, detecting whether a user is inhaling or sucking on the atomizer / liquid reservoir portion 16 of the electronic cigarette 10. The airflow sensor 26 can be any suitable sensor for detecting changes in airflow or air pressure, such as a microphone switch including a deformable diaphragm that moves in response to changes in air pressure. Alternatively, the sensor can be, for example, a Hall element or an electromechanical sensor.

[0019] Control electronics 24 are also connected to atomizer 28. In the illustrated example, atomizer 28 includes a heating coil 30 wound around a core 32 extending across a central channel of atomizer / liquid reservoir portion 16. The central channel 34 may be defined, for example, by one or more walls of the liquid reservoir and / or one or more walls of the atomizer / liquid reservoir portion 16 of the electronic cigarette 10. The coil 30 may be located anywhere within atomizer 28 and may traverse or be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical liquid reservoir 36. The core 32 and heating coil 30 do not completely obstruct the central channel 34. More precisely, an air gap is provided on either side of the heating coil 30, allowing air to flow through the heating coil 30 and the core 32. The atomizer may optionally use other forms of heating elements, such as ceramic heaters or fiber or mesh material heaters. Non-resistive heating elements (e.g., sonic, piezoelectric, and jet heating elements) may also be used in the atomizer instead of the heating coil.

[0020] The central channel 34 is surrounded by a cylindrical liquid reservoir 36, and the end of the core 32 is adjacent to or extends into the liquid reservoir 36. The core 32 may be a porous material, such as a bundle of glass fiber, cotton, or bamboo yarn. Liquid in the liquid reservoir 38 is drawn from the end of the core 32 toward the central portion of the core 32 surrounded by the heating coil 30 by capillary action.

[0021] Liquid reservoir 36 may optionally include packing material immersed in liquid surrounding central channel 34 (not in...). Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the end of core 32 is adjacent to the packing. In other embodiments, the liquid reservoir may include an annular cavity arranged to be filled with liquid, the end of core 32 extending into the annular cavity.

[0022] An air intake 38 is located at the rear end of the atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16, away from the end cap 12. The intake 38 may be formed in the cylindrical hollow tube atomizer / liquid reservoir section 16 or may be formed in the end cap.

[0023] In use, the user inhales through the electronic cigarette 10. This causes air to flow into the electronic cigarette 10 through one or more air inlets, such as air inlet 20, and out through the central channel 34 toward the air intake 38. The resulting change in air pressure is detected by the airflow sensor 26, which generates an electrical signal that is transmitted to the control electronics 24. In response to this signal, the control electronics 24 activates the heating coil 30, which causes the liquid present in the core 32 to evaporate, producing an aerosol (which may include gaseous and liquid components) within the central channel 34. As the user continues to inhale through the electronic cigarette 10, this aerosol flows through the central channel 34 and is inhaled by the user. Simultaneously, the control electronics 24 also activates the LED 18, illuminating it, which is visible through the translucent end cap 12. The activation of the LED mimics the appearance of glowing ash at the end of a conventional cigarette. When the liquid present in the core 32 is converted into an aerosol, more liquid flows from the liquid reservoir 36 into the core 32 through capillary action, and can therefore be used to convert it into an aerosol by subsequent activation of the heating coil 30.

[0024] Some electronic cigarettes are intended to be disposable, and the power in battery 22 is expected to be sufficient to evaporate the liquid contained in liquid reservoir 36, after which the electronic cigarette 10 is discarded. In other embodiments, battery 22 is rechargeable, and liquid reservoir 36 is refillable. In the case that liquid reservoir 36 is an annular cavity, this can be achieved via a refill port (not in the...) Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram) the liquid reservoir 36 is then refilled. In other embodiments, the atomizer / liquid reservoir portion 16 of the electronic cigarette 10 can be detached from the power supply portion 14, and a new atomizer / liquid reservoir portion 16 with a new liquid reservoir 36 can be installed to replenish the liquid supply. In some cases, replacing the liquid reservoir 36 may involve replacing the heating coil 30 and the wick 32 along with the liquid reservoir 36. The replaceable unit including the atomizer 28 and the liquid reservoir 36 may be referred to as an atomizing cartridge.

[0025] The new liquid reservoir may be a box that defines channels (or multiple channels) (not in Figure 1 In the form shown in the diagram, the user inhales the aerosol through the channel. In other embodiments, the aerosol may flow around the outside of the cartridge to the air intake 38.

[0026] Of course, variations exist beyond the structure and function of a typical electronic cigarette 10 as described above. For example, LED 18 may be omitted. The airflow sensor 26 may be placed, for example, adjacent to the end cap 12 rather than in the middle of the electronic cigarette. The airflow sensor 26 may be replaced by or supplemented by a switch that allows the user to manually activate the electronic cigarette rather than in response to the detection of changes in airflow or air pressure.

[0027] Different types of atomizers can be used. For example, an atomizer may have a heating coil within a cavity inside a porous body immersed in a liquid. In this design, an aerosol is generated by activating the coil by heating the porous body, or optionally by evaporating the liquid within the porous body using heated air passing over or through it. Alternatively, the atomizer may use a piezoelectric atomizer to generate an aerosol, either in combination or in the absence of a heater.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a diagram of a system associated with an exemplary electronic cigarette. System 100 may include control electronics 102 and an atomizer / liquid reservoir section 104 (also referred to herein as a reservoir section). In some embodiments, the control electronics may be a computing device including a processor 106 and a memory 108 (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium (CRM), a database, etc.). The memory 108 may store instructions executable by the processor 106 to perform specific functions. The control electronics 102 may be included in a power supply section 14 (… Figure 1 This can be on a mobile device and / or a batch of supporting devices and / or a combination of supporting devices and mobile devices. For example, control electronics 102 may be included on a personal computer. The atomizer / liquid reservoir portion 104 may include a reservoir memory 112 (e.g., a non-temporary CRM, database, etc.) that can communicate with control electronics 102 via a communication link 110, as further described herein. In some embodiments, reservoir memory 112 may store information and / or computer-executable instructions specific to the atomizer / liquid reservoir portion 104. For example, reservoir memory 112 may store information specific to the liquid stored in the reservoir of the atomizer / liquid reservoir portion 104, the type of atomizer (e.g., coil), the type of wick, a serial number associated with the atomizer reservoir portion 104, etc., as further discussed herein. Additional aspects relating to control electronics 102 and / or reservoir portion 104 are discussed herein.

[0029] Figure 3This is a flowchart depicting a method 120 for controlling an exemplary electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, method 120 may include determining, within a method control block 122, the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a given quantity of liquid stored in a reservoir, which is included in the atomizer / liquid reservoir portion of the electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, the reservoir of the electronic cigarette may be filled with different types of liquids that can be evaporated by the atomizer of the electronic cigarette. Different types of liquids may have unique characteristics, such as different nicotine concentrations, different flavors and / or different ingredients, physical properties and / or chemical properties. Different types of liquids may provide different user experiences, and some liquids may be more popular with one user than another. However, different types of liquids may react differently when they come into contact with the atomizer. In this example, different types of liquids may have different enthalpies of vaporization, which can be defined as the energy (e.g., enthalpy, evaporation energy) that must be added to the liquid to convert a given amount of liquid into a gas. For example, a liquid with a higher enthalpy of vaporization may require more energy to be applied to the liquid to make it evaporate than a liquid with a lower enthalpy of vaporization.

[0030] Therefore, while a user can enjoy a specific flavor of liquid with a specific nicotine content, the liquid may not be fully atomized when a certain amount of energy is applied to it via an atomizer due to liquid-related properties (e.g., a high enthalpy of vaporization). However, different liquids can be atomized with the same amount of energy applied, as a result of different properties (e.g., lower vaporization energy). This can affect the user's experience when using an electronic cigarette. For example, while a first electronic cigarette filled with a specific liquid may provide the user with the desired vapor, a second electronic cigarette, identical to the first but filled with a different liquid, may provide the same user with an undesirable vapor due to insufficient atomization of the liquid. Embodiments of this disclosure can provide a uniform quality of vaporization by taking into account the amount of vaporization energy associated with a specific liquid and other factors discussed herein.

[0031] In some implementations, the method may include determining the total amount of evaporation energy for different types of liquids. In one example, the type of liquid and / or the quantity and / or properties of the liquid stored in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette may be stored in the reservoir memory 112. Figure 2In some embodiments, the total amount of evaporation energy associated with the liquid in the reservoir may be stored on the reservoir memory 112. The total amount of evaporation energy may be defined as the total amount of energy required to be applied to an atomizer (e.g., a coil) to evaporate a specific amount of liquid (e.g., all the liquid) stored in the reservoir. In some embodiments, the amount of energy may be the amount required to evaporate a specific percentage of the liquid. For example, the total amount of evaporation energy may be the total amount of energy required to be applied to an atomizer to evaporate 90% of the liquid stored in 1 ml of the reservoir.

[0032] Further reference Figure 3 In some embodiments, method 120 may include determining, within the determining coil power method control block 124, the total amount of atomizer power supplied to the atomizer associated with the electronic cigarette during a time period. In some embodiments, the total amount of atomizer power supplied to the atomizer associated with the electronic cigarette during the time period may be equal to the energy supplied to the atomizer. In some embodiments, a power sensor may measure the total amount of power applied to the atomizer during a specific time period. In some embodiments, a current sensor may measure the total amount of current applied to the atomizer during a specific time period, and the atomizer power may be determined from the total amount of current. In some embodiments, a voltage sensor may measure the total amount of current applied to the atomizer during a specific time period, and the atomizer power may be determined from the total amount of current.

[0033] In some embodiments, the amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to the atomizer can be varied according to the airflow traveling through the electronic cigarette. For example, when a user inhales through the electronic cigarette, the airflow can be varied depending on how hard the user inhales. In some existing methods, a constant amount of electrical energy can be delivered to the atomizer. However, as a result, the same amount of liquid can be vaporized, regardless of how hard the user inhales. This can lead to varying quality of inhalation, because when the user inhales with greater force, a greater amount of air is drawn through the electronic cigarette, yet the same amount of vapor is produced; and when the user inhales with less force, a less amount of air is drawn through the electronic cigarette, yet the same amount of vapor is produced. Embodiments of this disclosure can vary the atomizer electrical energy delivered to the atomizer, resulting in a varying amount of liquid being delivered to the atomizer via capillary action. For example, when the user inhales more hard through the electronic cigarette, more electrical energy is supplied to the atomizer, thus increasing the amount of liquid drawn into the atomizer via capillary action. Conversely, when a user inhales with less force on an electronic cigarette, less electrical energy is supplied to the atomizer, thus reducing the amount of liquid drawn into the atomizer via capillary effect. In some embodiments, the electronic cigarette may include a mass airflow sensor that determines the mass flow rate of the air drawn through the electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, as described above, as the amount of airflow drawn through the electronic cigarette increases, the amount of liquid drawn into the atomizer may also increase. In some embodiments, instructions may be included in the control electronics 26 ( Figure 1 On the device, instructions can be executed by a processor to change the amount of electrical energy supplied to the atomizer based on a signal received from a mass airflow sensor representing the airflow. By doing so, embodiments of this disclosure ensure that the correct amount of electrical energy is applied to the atomizer to cause evaporation of the liquid drawn into the atomizer. In some embodiments, a linear or non-linear correlation may exist between the amount of airflow drawn through the electronic cigarette (e.g., the mass flow rate of air passing over the mass airflow sensor, as represented by a signal generated by the mass airflow sensor) and the amount of electrical energy supplied to the atomizer.

[0034] In some implementations, method 120 may include determining (126) the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during that time period in a liquid quantity determination method control block 126. In one example, the total amount of evaporation energy associated with the reservoir may be accessible and may be stored in the reservoir memory 112. Figure 2In one example, instructions stored in memory (e.g., memory 112) can be executed to decrement from a specific total amount of vaporized energy. For example, when a user inhales on an electronic cigarette, the amount of atomizer energy delivered to the atomizer can increase. Therefore, a decrement counter can be used to subtract the amount of atomizer energy delivered to the atomizer during that time period from the total amount of vaporized energy required to vaporize that amount of liquid stored in the electronic cigarette's memory. The decrement counter can count down (e.g., subtract the amount of atomizer energy delivered) until a specific threshold energy level is met. For example, the threshold may be zero in some embodiments, or an energy level above zero (e.g., 10% of the total amount of vaporized energy). In some embodiments, the ratio between the specific threshold energy level at time t1 and the total amount of vaporized energy at time t0 may be linearly or non-linearly related to the ratio between the remaining amount of liquid in the memory at time t1 and the total amount of liquid contained in the memory at time t0. Accordingly, the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette can be determined based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during that time period.

[0035] In some implementations, an incrementing counter can be used to sum the amount of atomizer power delivered to the atomizer during that time period. The incrementing counter can increment (e.g., by adding the amount of atomizer power delivered) until a specific threshold energy level is met. For example, the threshold could be the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate the amount of liquid stored in the reservoir and / or an energy level below the total amount of evaporation energy (e.g., 90% of the total amount of evaporation energy).

[0036] Unlike some methods of delivering steady-state electrical energy to an atomizer, embodiments of this disclosure are capable of delivering variable electrical energy to an atomizer. Methods of delivering steady-state electrical energy to an atomizer can calculate how much liquid remains in the reservoir using the total number of puffs, the time associated with each puff, and / or the average time associated with each puff. However, because embodiments of this disclosure can vary the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on how hard the user inhales on the electronic cigarette, varying amounts of liquid can be used for each puff and / or during the time frame of each puff. Accordingly, determining how much liquid remains in the reservoir solely based on the total number of puffs, the time associated with each puff, and / or the average time associated with each puff may not be accurate in a system that can deliver varying amounts of electrical energy to the atomizer. Embodiments of this disclosure provide an accurate determination of the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir, regardless of whether the amount of electrical energy supplied to the atomizer is steady-state or changed.

[0037] In some embodiments, as discussed above, the method may include determining that the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is less than a specific threshold based on a comparison between the total amount of vaporization energy and the total amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during that time period. In some embodiments, the method may include providing an indication via a user interface in response to the determination that the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is less than a specific threshold. In some embodiments, the indication may be an auditory, visual, and / or tactile indication. Auditory indications may include, for example, sounds, such as tone, beeps, etc. Visual indications may include, for example, the activation of a light (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)) that causes the light to flash or remain on. Tactile indications may include, for example, vibrations generated by a vibrating element (e.g., a motor).

[0038] In some implementations, the method may include limiting the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer in response to determining that the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is less than a certain threshold. In one example, the instruction may be executed by a processor to cut off the electrical energy to the atomizer, such that the atomizer does not open when the user inhales on the device and / or the airflow is not detected by a signal generated by a mass airflow sensor.

[0039] Figure 4A This is a diagram of a system 130 for controlling the operation of an exemplary electronic cigarette. System 130 may include a data storage 132, a control operating system 134, and / or multiple engines. The control operating system 134 may communicate with the data storage 132. The control operating system 134 may include multiple engines (e.g., a vaporization energy determination engine 136, an electrical energy determination engine 138, a delivery engine 140, a liquid quantity determination engine 142, etc.). The control operating system 134 may include additional or fewer engines than shown to perform the various functions described herein. Multiple engines may include a combination of hardware and programming to perform the multiple functions described herein (e.g., receiving, determining, etc.). Each engine may include hardware or a combination of hardware and programming that is specified or designed to perform a module (e.g., a specific module). Programming may include instructions (e.g., software, firmware, etc.) stored in a memory resource (e.g., a computer-readable medium) and hardwired programs (e.g., logic).

[0040] The control operating system 134 may include similar components discussed herein and related to... Figure 4BThe computing device may include, in some embodiments, a digital display suitable for displaying electronic data, such as a graphical user interface (GUI). The user interface may include hardware components and / or computer-readable instruction components. For example, hardware components may include input components (e.g., a mouse, touchscreen, keyboard, dial pad, and buttons) and / or output components (e.g., a display, vibration-generating device, speaker, etc.). An example user interface may include a GUI that digitally represents data related to the operation of controlling an electronic cigarette.

[0041] The evaporation energy determination engine 136 may include hardware and / or a combination of hardware and programming to determine the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a given amount of liquid stored in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, as discussed herein, the amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate that amount of liquid stored in the reservoir may be stored in a memory (e.g., data memory 132) disposed on the atomizer / liquid reservoir portion of the electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, when the power supply portion of the electronic cigarette is connected to the memory portion of the electronic cigarette, a processor included in the control electronics can read the memory and determine the total amount of evaporation energy based on the data stored in the memory. Alternatively, the processor included in the control electronics can read the memory and determine the amount of evaporation energy upon the user's first puff.

[0042] The power engine 138 may include hardware and / or a combination of hardware and programming to determine the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer of the electronic cigarette based on received data. As discussed earlier, the amount of electrical energy delivered to the electronic cigarette may be variable. In some embodiments, the received data may be generated by a mass flow sensor, as discussed herein. Accordingly, increased electrical energy may be provided to the atomizer when the mass flow increases; and / or decreased electrical energy may be provided to the atomizer when the mass flow decreases. In some embodiments, the received data may be received from a variable switch. For example, the electronic cigarette may include a user-operable variable switch. The variable switch may be a variable power switch, and in some embodiments, it may be a physical switch and / or provided via a graphical user interface. The variable switch may be configured to change the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer. By changing the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer, the user can adjust the amount of vapor produced when the atomizer is activated, thus allowing the user to configure the electronic cigarette to their personal preferences.

[0043] In some implementations, the received data may indicate characteristics associated with the electronic cigarette. In some implementations, the received data may be generated when a processor reads memory disposed on the atomizer / liquid reservoir portion of the electronic cigarette. For example, the data may be read by the processor, and characteristics associated with the electronic cigarette may be determined.

[0044] The delivery engine 14 may include hardware and / or a combination of hardware and programming to deliver a defined amount of electrical energy to the atomizer. In some embodiments, the processor may execute functions stored in the power supply section 14 of the electronic cigarette. Figure 1 Instructions in the memory of the control electronics related to the electronic cigarette and / or instructions stored in the memory related to the reservoir portion of the electronic cigarette (e.g., physically arranged on the reservoir portion) cause a determined amount of electrical energy to be delivered to the atomizer.

[0045] The liquid quantity determination engine 142 may include hardware and / or a combination of hardware and programming to determine the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during a specific time period. In some embodiments, an electrical energy sensor may measure the total amount of electrical energy applied to the atomizer during a specific time period. In some embodiments, a current sensor may measure the total amount of current applied to the atomizer during a specific time period, and the atomizer electrical energy may be determined from the total amount of current. In some embodiments, a voltage sensor may measure the total amount of current applied to the atomizer during a specific time period, and the atomizer electrical energy may be determined from the total amount of current.

[0046] Figure 4B The diagram illustrates examples of a computing device 150 for controlling an atomizer of an electronic cigarette according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The computing device 150 may utilize software, hardware, firmware, and / or logic to perform the various functions described herein.

[0047] The computing device 150 may be a combination of hardware and instructions 158 for controlling the atomizer of an electronic cigarette. The hardware may include, for example, processing resources 152 and / or memory resources 154 (e.g., computer-readable media (CRM), databases, etc.). Processing resources 152, as used herein, may include multiple processors capable of executing instructions 158 stored in memory resources 154. Processing resources 152 may be integrated in a single device or distributed across multiple devices. Instructions 158 (e.g., computer-readable instructions (CRI)) may include instructions 158 stored in memory resources 154 and executable by processing resources 152 to achieve desired functions (e.g., determining the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on characteristics and airflow).

[0048] Memory resource 154 may communicate with processing resource 152. As used herein, memory resource 154 may include multiple memory units capable of storing instructions 158 executable by processing resource 152. Such memory resource 154 may be a non-transitory CRM. Memory resource 154 may be integrated in a single device or distributed across multiple devices. Furthermore, memory resource 154 may be wholly or partially integrated in the same device as processing resource 152, or it may be a separate device that is accessible to both processing resource 152 and processing resource 152. Thus, note that computing device 150 may be implemented on supporting devices and / or a batch of supporting devices, on mobile devices and / or a batch of mobile devices and / or a combination of supporting devices and mobile devices. In some embodiments, one or more instructions included on memory resource 154 may be updated, and / or new instructions may be loaded onto memory.

[0049] Memory resource 154 may communicate with processing resource 152 via communication link 156 (e.g., path). Communication link 156 may be local or remote to the computing device associated with processing resource 152. Examples of local communication link 156 may include an electronic bus within the computing device, wherein memory resource 154 is one of volatile, non-volatile, fixed, and / or removable storage media that communicates with processing resource 152 via the electronic bus.

[0050] Link 156 (e.g., local area network, wide area network, regional network, or global network) represents a cable, wireless, fiber optic, or remote connection via a telecommunications link, infrared link, radio frequency link, and / or other connector or system providing electronic communication. That is, link 156 may include, for example, a link to an intranet, the Internet, or a combination of both, along with other communication interfaces. Link 156 may also include intermediate agents, such as intermediate agent servers (not shown), routers, switches, load balancers, etc.

[0051] Memory resource 154 may include multiple modules, such as characteristic determination module 160, flow rate determination module 162, and / or power determination module 164. The multiple modules 160, 162, and 164 may include a CRI (Continuous Resource Identifier) ​​that can perform multiple functions when executed by processing resource 152. The multiple modules 160, 162, and 164 may be submodules of other modules. For example, flow rate determination module 162 and power determination module 164 may be submodules and / or contained within the same computing device 150. In another example, the multiple modules 160, 162, and 164 may include separate modules (e.g., CRM, etc.) located in separate and different locations.

[0052] Each of the multiple modules 160, 162, 164 may include instructions that, when executed by processing resource 152, can function as a corresponding engine, as described herein. For example, the power determination module 164 may include a CRI that, when executed by processing resource 152, can function as a power determination engine 138.

[0053] In some embodiments, the characteristic determination module 160 may include determining a CRI (Characteristic Indicator) of characteristics related to the electronic cigarette based on data stored in a memory portion of the electronic cigarette's storage unit, when executed by a processing resource. In some embodiments, the CRI may be executed by the processing resource to determine a resistance characteristic associated with a coil in the atomizer from data stored in the memory. In some embodiments, the resistance characteristic may include the resistance of a coil included in the atomizer of the electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, the resistance of the coil may affect the desired amount of electrical energy supplied to the coil. For example, instructions may be executed to deliver increased electrical energy using increased resistance of the coil. Alternatively, instructions may be executed to deliver decreased electrical energy using increased resistance of the coil. Accordingly, different amounts of electrical energy may be delivered to the coil based on the coil's resistance. In some embodiments, the current at which the coil is driven may be adjusted based on the coil's resistance. For example, a 1-ohm coil may be driven with a current greater than or less than the current at which a 1.1-ohm coil is driven. In some embodiments, instructions may be executed to deliver increased current to the coil using increased resistance of the coil. Optionally, instructions can be executed to deliver a reduced current to the coil using the increased resistance of the coil.

[0054] In some implementations, CRI can be performed to determine expiration characteristics associated with the reservoir portion from data stored in memory. In some implementations, the expiration characteristics may include a time period. For example, the time period may be a specific date on which the use of the reservoir portion is no longer recommended and / or permitted. In some implementations, the expiration date may be determined based on a specific manufacturing date associated with the reservoir portion that can be stored in memory. For example, the expiration date may be 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, etc., after the reservoir portion was manufactured. In some implementations, CRI can be performed to limit the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the expiration of a time period. For example, the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer may be limited such that no electrical energy is supplied to the atomizer and associated coil (e.g., heating element), so that the atomizer is no longer activated when the user inhales on the electronic cigarette.

[0055] In some embodiments, CRI can be performed to determine a correction factor characteristic associated with the liquid stored in the reservoir section using data stored in memory. In some embodiments, as discussed above, different liquids included in the reservoir section may have different enthalpies of vaporization. Accordingly, different amounts of electrical energy may need to be applied to the atomizer to evaporate the different liquids. In some embodiments, the correction factor characteristic may include a correction factor associated with the liquid in the reservoir section. In some embodiments, the correction factor may be a value based on the type of liquid in the reservoir section multiplied by the amount of electrical energy supplied to the coil. In some embodiments, the electrical energy supplied to the coil may remain constant but may be supplied to the coil over a longer period of time to increase the energy supplied to the liquid via the coil.

[0056] In some implementations, the correction factor may be determined experimentally and programmed into the memory of the storage section. For example, the correction factor may be determined experimentally and programmed into the memory of the storage section during device manufacturing. In some implementations, a processor included in the power supply section can read the memory and the correction factor stored in the memory of the storage section. The processor can execute instructions to change the amount of electrical energy supplied to the atomizer based on the correction factor.

[0057] In some implementations, CRI can be performed to determine the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer over a time period. In one example, the coil associated with the atomizer may have a predetermined lifespan. For example, after a predetermined amount of electrical energy has been delivered to the coil over a time period, the coil may be degraded and / or burned out. Accordingly, the electrical energy delivered to the coil may be limited when a threshold amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer is reached. In some implementations, the electrical energy delivered to the coil may be limited based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer over that time period. In some implementations, the electrical energy delivered to the coil may be limited based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer over that time period exceeding a threshold. For example, the electrical energy delivered to the coil may be limited such that no electrical energy is supplied to the atomizer, and the coil associated with the atomizer is no longer activated when the user inhales on the electronic cigarette.

[0058] In some embodiments, CRI can be performed to determine the type of coil included in the atomizer from data stored in memory. In some embodiments, the type of coil included in the atomizer can affect the efficiency of liquid evaporation via the atomizer. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the amount of electrical energy supplied to the coil of the atomizer can be varied based on the type of coil included in the atomizer.

[0059] In some implementations, CRI can be performed to determine the serial number of the battery associated with the power supply section of the electronic cigarette. In one example, the serial number of the battery associated with the power supply section of the electronic cigarette can be checked against a stored table of serial numbers located in the memory of the storage section to confirm that the power supply section of the electronic cigarette is authorized to function with the storage section. In some implementations, if it is determined that the serial number of the power supply section is not authorized to function with the storage section, the atomizer can be disabled by preventing electrical power from being supplied to the atomizer. This protects against the use of counterfeit power supplies or power supplies not authorized to function with the storage section.

[0060] In some embodiments, the memory of the storage unit may store a serial number and / or batch code associated with a specific manufacturing batch in which the storage unit was manufactured. Such information can be used for the identification of the storage unit and / or to prevent unauthorized storage units from being used with the power supply unit. In some embodiments, instructions may be executed on the power supply unit to check the serial number and / or batch code against a stored table of serial numbers and / or batch codes in the memory of the battery power unit to confirm that the electronic cigarette's storage unit is authorized to function with the battery power unit.

[0061] In some implementations, CRI can be performed to determine the first use date and / or time associated with the reservoir portion of the electronic cigarette. In some implementations, the atomizer may begin to oxidize upon first use of the atomizer associated with the reservoir portion of the electronic cigarette, depending on the type of material (e.g., metal) the atomizer is made of. In one example, instructions can be executed to limit the amount of electrical energy delivered to the coil of the atomizer in response to a threshold time elapsed since the first use date and / or time. For example, the electrical energy delivered to the coil may be limited so that no electrical energy is supplied to the atomizer, and the coil associated with the atomizer is no longer activated when the user inhales on the electronic cigarette.

[0062] In some embodiments, when the power supply section is connected to the storage section and the memory included in the storage section, coil-related characteristics such as resistance characteristics, expiration characteristics, correction factor characteristics, the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer over a period of time, coil type, serial number, batch number, first use date and / or time, etc., can be read by a processor associated with the control electronics included in the power supply section. In some embodiments, coil-related characteristics can be read by the processor when the user first inhales and / or the atomizer is activated (e.g., when electrical energy is first supplied to the atomizer). In some embodiments, a local copy of the memory included in the storage section can be made on the memory included in the power supply section.

[0063] In some implementations, the flow rate determination module 162 may include a CRI (Cost per Flow Rate) for determining the flow rate of air supplied to the atomizer based on a signal received from a mass airflow sensor when executed by the processed resource. In one example, the power supply section may include a mass airflow sensor as discussed herein. The mass airflow sensor may generate a signal that can be read by a processor included in the power supply section of the electronic cigarette to determine the flow rate of air passing over the mass airflow sensor and ultimately supplied to the atomizer.

[0064] In some embodiments, the power determination module 164 may include a CRI (Cost Intake Ratio) that determines the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on characteristics and airflow velocity when the processed resource is executed. As discussed herein, the electrical energy delivered to the atomizer may be varied based on airflow velocity. For example, when airflow velocity increases, the electrical energy delivered to the atomizer may increase in response to the increase in airflow velocity. Alternatively, when airflow velocity decreases, the electrical energy delivered to the atomizer may decrease in response to the decrease in airflow velocity. However, in some embodiments, the electrical energy delivered to the atomizer may be varied based on characteristics associated with the electronic cigarette, as discussed above. For example, electrical energy may be limited such that no electrical energy is supplied to the electronic cigarette, electrical energy is reduced, electrical energy is increased, and / or electrical energy is maintained at a constant level. In some embodiments, the electrical energy supplied to the atomizer based on characteristics associated with the electronic cigarette may have a higher priority than delivering electrical energy to the atomizer based on a determined airflow velocity. For example, the electrical energy to the atomizer may be limited even if the airflow velocity increases.

[0065] In some examples, CRI can be performed to provide the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during that time period. As discussed earlier, this indication can notify the user that the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir has decreased to below a threshold level. In some implementations, the notification may include auditory, visual, and / or tactile notifications.

[0066] In some embodiments, the memory included in the reservoir portion of the electronic cigarette may include instructions executable by a processor associated with the control electronics to activate a specific mode (e.g., a covert operation mode). In one example, the instructions may be executed by the processor to reduce the electrical energy to the coil associated with the atomizer. For example, the electrical energy to the coil may be reduced so that less vapor is produced when the atomizer is activated and the user inhales from the electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, the instructions may be executed by the processor to deactivate one or more lamps included on the electronic cigarette. For example, in the case where the electronic cigarette includes lamps arranged on the electronic cigarette configured to be activated when the user inhales, executable instructions may be stored in memory to limit the amount of electrical energy supplied to the lamps and / or turn off the lamps when the user inhales. Accordingly, by activating a specific mode, the user can inhale from the electronic cigarette with less visible vapor produced without other indications that the device is activated (e.g., the lamps on the electronic cigarette are activated).

[0067] In summary, one aspect of this disclosure may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions for controlling an atomizer of an electronic cigarette. The instructions may be executed to determine characteristics associated with the electronic cigarette based on data stored in a memory portion of the electronic cigarette's reservoir. In various embodiments, the instructions may be executed to determine the flow rate of air supplied to the atomizer based on signals received from a mass airflow sensor. In various embodiments, the instructions may be executed to determine the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the characteristics and the airflow rate.

[0068] According to various embodiments, instructions can be executed to deliver an increased amount of electrical energy to the atomizer in response to an increase in airflow velocity. According to various embodiments, instructions can be executed to deliver a decreased amount of electrical energy to the atomizer in response to a decrease in airflow velocity. According to various embodiments, instructions can be executed to determine, from data stored in a memory, a resistance characteristic associated with a coil in the atomizer, including the resistance of the coil; and to determine, based on the resistance characteristic associated with the coil, the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer. According to various embodiments, instructions can be executed to determine the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during a time period. According to various embodiments, instructions can be executed to limit the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period exceeding a threshold. According to various embodiments, instructions can be executed to provide an indication of the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period. According to various embodiments, instructions can be executed to determine, from data stored in a memory, an expiration characteristic associated with the reservoir, including a time period; and to limit the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the expiration of the time period. According to various embodiments, instructions can be executed to determine, from data stored in memory, a correction factor characteristic related to the liquid stored in the reservoir portion, the correction factor characteristic including a liquid-related correction factor, wherein a determined amount of electrical energy is determined based on the correction factor.

[0069] In summary, one aspect of this disclosure may include a method for controlling the operation of an electronic cigarette. The method may include determining the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a certain quantity of liquid stored in a reservoir of the electronic cigarette. The method may include determining the total amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to an atomizer associated with the electronic cigarette during a time period. The method may include determining the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period.

[0070] According to various embodiments, the method may include determining the total amount of evaporation energy for different types of liquids. According to various embodiments, the method may include determining that the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is less than a specific threshold based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of atomizer electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during that time period. According to various embodiments, the method may include providing an indication via a user interface in response to determining that the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is less than a specific threshold. According to various embodiments, the method may include limiting the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer in response to determining that the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is less than a specific threshold.

[0071] In summary, one aspect of this disclosure may include a system for controlling the operation of an electronic cigarette. The system may include a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium including computer-executable instructions, which can be executed by the processor. The instructions may be executed to determine the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a certain amount of liquid stored in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette. The instructions may be executed to determine the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer of the electronic cigarette based on received data. The instructions may be executed to cause the determined amount of electrical energy to be delivered to the atomizer. The instructions may be executed to determine the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette based on a comparison between the total amount of evaporation energy and the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during a specific time period.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the system may include instructions executable to determine a variable amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer. According to various embodiments, the system may include instructions executable to receive signals from a variable switch. According to various embodiments, the system may include instructions executable to receive received signals indicating characteristics associated with the electronic cigarette.

[0073] While the invention has been described with respect to what is currently considered a practical exemplary implementation, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is instead intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0074] List of reference symbols

[0075] 10 Electronic smoking devices

[0076] 12 end caps

[0077] 14 Power Supply Section

[0078] 16 Atomizer / Liquid Reservoir Section

[0079] 18 Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

[0080] 20 air inlets

[0081] 22 batteries

[0082] 24 Control Electronic Devices

[0083] 26 airflow sensors

[0084] 28 Atomizer

[0085] 30 heating coil

[0086] 32 cores

[0087] 34 Central Passage

[0088] 36 Liquid Storage

[0089] 38 air intake

[0090] 100 System

[0091] 102 Control electronic equipment

[0092] 104 storage section

[0093] 106 processor

[0094] 108 memory

[0095] 110 communication link

[0096] 112 memory

[0097] 120 Methods

[0098] 122 Determining the Evaporation Energy Method Control Block

[0099] 124 Determine the coil's electrical energy method control block

[0100] 126 Method for Determining Liquid Quantity Control Block

[0101] 130 system

[0102] 132 data storage

[0103] 134 Control Operating System

[0104] 136 Confirmed Evaporative Energy Engine

[0105] 138 Confirmed Electric Engine

[0106] 140 conveyor engine

[0107] 142 Determine the liquid quantity engine

[0108] 150 computing devices

[0109] 152 Processing Resources

[0110] 154 memory resources

[0111] 156 communication links

[0112] 158 instruction

[0113] 160 Feature Module

[0114] 162 Determine Flow Rate Module

[0115] 164 Determine the power module

Claims

1. A system for controlling the operation of an electronic cigarette, the system comprising: An electronic cigarette, wherein the electronic cigarette includes a user-operable variable power switch and an atomizer / liquid reservoir section having an atomizer and a liquid reservoir; as well as Computing devices, including: Processing resources, which are located on a device independent of the electronic cigarette; and A memory resource that communicates with the processing resource, the memory resource including a non-transitory computer-readable medium including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, cause the processing resource to: Determine the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a certain amount of liquid stored in the atomizer / liquid reservoir section of the electronic cigarette; The amount of electrical energy to be supplied to the atomizer of the electronic cigarette is determined based on received data indicating characteristics related to the electronic cigarette and received data provided by the user-operable variable power switch, the amount of electrical energy being variable. The determined amount of electrical energy is delivered to the atomizer; and The amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is determined by comparing the total amount of energy evaporated with the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer over a period of time.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the memory resource includes a characteristic determination module, a flow rate determination module, and a power determination module, the power determination module including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, determine the amount of power to be delivered to the atomizer.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes instructions capable of performing the following operations: The resistance characteristics associated with the coil in the atomizer, including the resistance of the coil, are determined from data stored in the memory resource; and The amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer is determined based on the resistance characteristics associated with the coil.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes instructions capable of executing to limit the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes instructions capable of executing to limit the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period exceeding a threshold.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes instructions capable of executing to provide an indication of the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir portion based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes instructions capable of performing the following operations: Determine the expiration characteristics associated with the memory portion from data stored in the memory, the expiration characteristics including a time period; and The amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer is limited based on the expiration of the time period.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium further includes instructions capable of executing to determine, from data stored in the memory, a correction factor characteristic relating to a liquid stored in the reservoir portion, the correction factor characteristic including a correction factor relating to the liquid, wherein a determined amount of electrical energy is determined based on the correction factor.

9. A computer-implemented method for controlling the operation of an electronic cigarette, the method comprising: Determine the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a certain amount of liquid stored in the atomizer / liquid reservoir section of an electronic cigarette, the atomizer / liquid reservoir section including an atomizer and a liquid reservoir, wherein the electronic cigarette includes a user-operable variable power switch; The amount of electrical energy to be supplied to the atomizer of the electronic cigarette is determined based on received data indicating characteristics related to the electronic cigarette and received data provided by the user-operable variable power switch, the amount of electrical energy being variable. The determined amount of electrical energy is delivered to the atomizer; as well as The amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is determined by comparing the total amount of energy evaporated with the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer over a period of time.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: The resistance characteristics associated with the coil in the atomizer are determined from data stored in memory resources, the resistance characteristics including the resistance of the coil; as well as The amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer is determined based on the resistance characteristics associated with the coil.

11. The method of claim 9, further comprising limiting the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the said time period.

12. The method of claim 9, further comprising limiting the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period exceeding a threshold.

13. The system of claim 9, further comprising providing an indication of the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir portion based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the said time period.

14. The method of claim 9, further comprising: Determine the expiration characteristics associated with the memory portion from data stored in the memory, the expiration characteristics including a time period; and The amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer is limited based on the expiration of the time period.

15. The method of claim 9, further comprising determining, from data stored in a memory, a correction factor characteristic relating to a liquid stored in a storage portion, the correction factor characteristic including a correction factor relating to the liquid, wherein the determined amount of electrical energy is determined based on the correction factor.

16. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: Determine the total amount of evaporation energy required to evaporate a certain amount of liquid stored in the atomizer / liquid reservoir section of an electronic cigarette, the electronic cigarette including a user-operable variable power switch; The amount of electrical energy to be delivered to the atomizer of the electronic cigarette is determined based on received data indicating characteristics related to the electronic cigarette and received data provided by the user-operable variable power switch, the amount of electrical energy being variable. The determined amount of electrical energy is delivered to the atomizer; as well as The amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the electronic cigarette is determined by comparing the total amount of energy evaporated with the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer over a period of time.

17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, further comprising instructions executable by the processor to perform the following operations: The resistance characteristics associated with the coil in the atomizer are determined from data stored in memory resources, the resistance characteristics including the resistance of the coil; and The amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer is determined based on the resistance characteristics associated with the coil.

18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, further comprising instructions executable by the processor to limit the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period.

19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, further comprising instructions executable by the processor to limit the amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period exceeding a threshold.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, further comprising instructions executable by the processor to provide an indication of the amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir portion based on the total amount of electrical energy delivered to the atomizer during the time period.

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