Adapter device and method for powering a portable inhalation device

Abstract

This invention provides an adapter device for powering a portable inhalation device, characterized by comprising: a power-side connector configured to connect to a power source; a device-side connector configured to connect to the portable inhalation device; and a power adapter configured to adjust electrical energy received from the power source so that the electrical energy can be used by the portable inhalation device, wherein the portable inhalation device uses the adjusted electrical energy from the power adapter, rather than chemical battery energy, to vaporize an inhaled substance. This adapter device enables the portable inhalation device to eliminate the need for a battery, thereby reducing device weight, simplifying device structure, reducing manufacturing costs, and eliminating environmental problems associated with battery disposal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of portable inhalation device technology, and more specifically, relates to an adapter device and method for powering a portable inhalation device. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, portable inhalation devices have become increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional smoking methods. These devices typically use electronic components to heat and atomize the inhaled substance, offering users a less potentially harmful and less noticeable consumption method compared to combustion-based smoking. Their portability allows for convenient use in various situations, thus attracting a broad consumer base.

[0003] Traditional portable inhalation devices typically rely on rechargeable batteries as their primary power source. While this approach offers mobility and convenience, it also presents several challenges. Limited battery life can lead to interruptions in use, requiring frequent charging or battery replacements. Including batteries in the device increases its overall weight and size, potentially impacting user comfort and portability. Furthermore, the use of batteries contributes to electronic waste, raising environmental concerns as the number of such devices on the market continues to grow.

[0004] Furthermore, integrating batteries into portable inhalation devices increases their complexity and manufacturing costs. The need for battery management systems and charging circuitry increases the overall number of components and design complexity. This complexity may result in higher retail prices for consumers and increases the potential risk of device malfunction or failure.

[0005] With the continued growth in demand for portable inhalation devices, the need for alternative power solutions that can overcome the aforementioned limitations is becoming increasingly urgent. A power supply method that eliminates reliance on internal batteries while maintaining device functionality and convenience could revolutionize the industry. Such a solution could simplify device design, reduce manufacturing costs, and decrease electronic waste associated with battery disposal.

[0006] Furthermore, there is a need for power solutions that can utilize existing infrastructure and widely available power sources. Given the prevalence of USB ports, standardized power outlets, and mobile devices with sufficient battery capacity, it becomes possible to develop inhalation devices that can seamlessly integrate with these common power supply systems. Such integration is expected to improve user convenience and reduce the need for dedicated charging equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention provides an adapter device for powering a portable inhalation device, thereby solving the technical problems mentioned in the background section.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment, an adapter device for powering a portable inhalation device is provided, comprising: a power-side connector configured to be connected to a power source; a device-side connector configured to be connected to the portable inhalation device; and a power adapter configured to adjust electrical energy received from the power source such that the electrical energy can be used by the portable inhalation device, wherein the portable inhalation device uses the adjusted electrical energy from the power adapter, rather than chemical battery power, to vaporize an inhaled substance.

[0009] As will be explained in detail later, portable inhalation devices and adapter devices can be integrated into a single device. In some examples, this single device is referred to as a portable inhalation device or simply the device. However, in other examples, a portable inhalation device may be a nebulizer that contains atomized inhalation material, or a nebulizer specifically configured to atomize inhalation material. For example, a nebulizer may be equipped with a reservoir for holding liquid substances. A nebulizer may be equipped with a nebulizing assembly containing a heating element. The heating element converts regulated electrical energy into heat energy, thereby atomizing the substance for the user to inhale.

[0010] In some examples, the power source is a mobile phone. For instance, the mobile phone can be powered via a USB port. The power adapter can be configured to first detect a threshold power output rate of the mobile phone, and then draw power from the mobile phone according to that threshold. This mechanism prevents the adapter from drawing excessive current, avoiding damage to the mobile phone or triggering its protection circuitry.

[0011] The adapter device can be connected to a portable inhalation device and / or a power source via a power cord or internal circuitry. When using the connection cord, the portable inhalation device can be used in a location away from the power source. In some embodiments, the power cord may be permanently fixed to at least one of the power-side connector and the power source; in other embodiments, the power cord may be detachable to allow for replacement of cables of different lengths or replacement altogether.

[0012] The adapter device can be housed within the body of the portable inhalation device. For example, the power adapter circuitry can be integrated into the housing structure of the inhalation device; this integrated design allows for a more compact form factor and eliminates the need for external adapter components. The portable inhalation device may include a heating element that receives regulated electrical energy directly from the integrated power adapter via an internal integrated circuit (rather than an external power cord).

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, a device for powering a portable inhalation device without the use of a chemical battery includes: a power-side connector configured to be connected to a power source; a device-side connector configured to be connected to the portable inhalation device; and a capacitor configured to store energy received from the power source and release the stored energy to the portable inhalation device; wherein the portable inhalation device is configured to atomize material based on the stored energy released by the capacitor.

[0014] The capacitor provides a high instantaneous current output for the vaporization process. For example, the capacitor can be slowly charged from a power source and then rapidly discharged while still connected to or disconnected from the power source, thereby driving the heating element. This allows the power source to have a low current capacity while still supporting high-power vaporization. The capacitor can be at least one of a supercapacitor, a dielectric capacitor, an electrolytic capacitor, or a ceramic capacitor. The capacitor can be housed within the main body of the portable suction device, for example, integrated with the heating element and the liquid reservoir in a compact housing.

[0015] In another example, a method for providing non-battery power to a portable inhalation device is provided, which may include regulating electrical energy received from a power source via an adapter device.

[0016] This method may include supplying regulated electrical energy to a portable inhalation device. The portable inhalation device may use regulated electrical energy from a power adapter, rather than battery power, to vaporize the substance to be inhaled.

[0017] In one example, the method may include disconnecting the adapter device from a power source before supplying regulated electrical energy to the portable inhalation device. For example, the adapter device may store energy in a capacitor while connected to a power source. The adapter device may then be disconnected from the power source. The energy stored in the capacitor can then power the portable inhalation device after disconnection. Providing regulated electrical energy can be achieved by charging the capacitor while the adapter is connected to a power source.

[0018] The example method may include determining a threshold draw rate for a power source. For example, an adapter device may communicate with the power source to identify its maximum current carrying capacity. The adapter device may detect the power source type based on electrical characteristics. Power regulation may include drawing power from the power source at a rate not exceeding the power source's threshold draw rate, which can prevent power source overload or trigger protective shutdown.

[0019] The method may include trickle charging of the adapter device via a power source. For example, the power source may provide a continuous low-current charge to a capacitor in the adapter device. This trickle charging compensates for the capacitor's self-discharge, keeping it at full capacity. The method may include inserting a power cord into at least one of the adapter device and the power source, providing an electrical connection between the power source and the adapter device to charge the capacitor with a low current that does not generate excessive heat or damage the circuitry of the device (e.g., a mobile phone) or the power source. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 This is an example method flowchart for providing non-battery power to a portable inhalation device according to one or more embodiments herein; Figure 2 This is an example method flowchart for providing non-battery power to a portable inhalation device according to one or more embodiments herein; Figure 3 This is an exploded view of an example cartridge adapter according to one or more embodiments of this document; Figure 4 This is an exploded view of an example direct-connect cartridge according to one or more embodiments herein; Figure 5 This is a block diagram of an example device powered by an external power source according to one or more embodiments of this document; Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an exemplary device powered by an external power source according to one or more embodiments of this document; Figure 7 This is a perspective view of an exemplary device capable of being powered by an external power source according to one or more embodiments of this document; Figure 8A This is a perspective view of an exemplary device capable of being powered by an external power source according to one or more embodiments of this document; Figure 8B According to one or more embodiments herein Figure 8A Another perspective view of the exemplary device; Figure 9A This is a perspective view of an example device capable of being powered by an external power source according to one or more embodiments of this document; Figure 9B According to one or more embodiments herein Figure 9A Another perspective view of the example device; Figure 10 yes Figure 9A and Figure 9B The example shown is an exploded view of the components within the device. Specific Implementation To make the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0023] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly on that other component. When a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to that other component.

[0024] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention.

[0025] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of some inventions, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0026] This invention discloses apparatus and methods for powering portable inhalation devices that do not rely on internal rechargeable batteries, particularly chemistry-based batteries such as lithium-ion or alkaline batteries. In various embodiments, the invention can eliminate battery-dependent architectures by utilizing capacitive energy storage and / or adaptive power management circuitry. The invention enables portable inhalation devices to operate when connected to power-constrained sources (such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other USB-compatible devices with strict power output limits) or when directly plugged into a typical household power outlet.

[0027] Traditional portable inhalation devices typically use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries as their primary energy storage mechanism. These battery-based systems have several limitations, including limited cycle life, safety hazards related to thermal runaway, difficulties in environmental disposal, and incompatibility with the low-power USB output of modern smartphones. Modern smartphones (especially iPhones) have strict limits on output power; for example, USB-compatible accessories cannot consume more than 4.5 watts. When an accessory attempts to draw excessive current, the smartphone may trigger a protection mechanism and display an error message, thereby preventing the device from operating and avoiding potential damage.

[0028] This invention provides a device that solves the aforementioned problems by eliminating the need for chemical batteries to power a portable inhalation device. This device regulates electrical energy from a power source and directly supplies it to the atomizing components, and / or employs capacitive energy storage elements such as capacitors, supercapacitors, or dielectric capacitors. The device can detect power output limitations of the connected power source, regulate the input electrical energy to maintain it within permissible power extraction thresholds, implement trickle charging to slowly accumulate energy in the capacitive energy storage elements, disconnect from the power source before or during atomization, and release the stored capacitive energy to generate sufficient heat for atomization, while avoiding excessively high instantaneous current extraction from the power source.

[0029] Figure 1 A flowchart of an example method for powering a portable inhalation device without the use of chemical batteries is provided according to one or more embodiments herein, which enables the portable inhalation device to operate using regulated electrical energy from an external power source, rather than relying on chemical batteries.

[0030] Phase 110 may include connecting the adapter device to a power source. For example, a user may perform this phase by connecting the adapter device to an external power source, such as a USB port, a wall outlet, or other standard power supply. The adapter device may be equipped with various types of power-side connectors to facilitate this connection, such as a straight-through USB connector, a cable USB connector, or flip-up pins for direct connection to a wall outlet. The power source can be any device capable of providing electrical power, including but not limited to smartphones (such as iPhones or Android devices), tablets, laptops, desktop computers, USB wall adapters, portable power banks, or in-vehicle USB charging ports. This connection establishes both a mechanical and electrical connection between the adapter device and the power source.

[0031] In some examples, the adapter device may include an accessory cable that is permanently or detachably connected to the device body. The end of this accessory cable may be configured with a connector for connecting to a power source, such as a USB-C plug for modern devices, a Lightning connector for iPhones, a USB-A plug for legacy devices, or a dedicated magnetic connector. The cable length design provides flexibility for the relative placement of the device and the power source. In other examples, the adapter device may have a port (e.g., a USB-C female connector) for connecting user-supplied external cables. This configuration allows users to choose the appropriate cable length and type based on their specific use case.

[0032] Phase 120 may include regulating electrical energy from a power source via an adapter device. For example, a power adapter within the adapter device may perform this phase by regulating the input power supply to ensure that appropriate voltage and current are provided to the portable inhalation device. Regulation may involve converting an external power supply output (such as a 5V USB power supply) into power suitable for the heating element requirements of the portable inhalation device. The power adapter may include power regulation circuitry configured to detect power output limitations of the connected power source and adjust power extraction accordingly.

[0033] The power regulation circuitry performs several functions to ensure safe and efficient operation. This circuitry detects the power output limits of the power source by monitoring voltage levels, current draw, and communication signals from the power source. For example, when connected to an iPhone, the circuitry can detect a maximum available power of approximately 4.5 watts according to the USB Power Delivery negotiation protocol. The circuitry can then configure itself to draw power within this limit, thereby avoiding triggering the phone's protection mechanism—which displays an error message and disconnects the accessory.

[0034] Power regulation circuitry modulates the electrical energy from a power source, keeping it within permissible power thresholds. This typically involves current-limiting circuitry that restricts instantaneous current to safe levels, such as 900 mA or less for a 5-volt USB power supply. The circuitry may also implement voltage regulation, converting the input voltage to a suitable value for charging capacitive energy storage components. In some examples, this circuitry may include a buck converter, a linear regulator for precise voltage control, or a switch-mode power supply for efficient power conversion.

[0035] Phase 130 may include providing regulated electrical energy to the portable inhaler. In one example, the power adapter may perform this phase by transmitting regulated electrical energy to a device-side connector of the adapter device. This device-side connector may be designed to be compatible with standard cartridge interfaces used in portable inhalers, such as those employing 510 threads, magnetic connections, or dedicated cartridge interfaces. Regulated electrical energy can flow from the power regulation circuitry through the device-side connector to the heating element of the portable inhaler.

[0036] Stage 140 may include using regulated electrical energy (rather than chemical battery power) from a power adapter to vaporize the inhaled substance. In one example, a portable inhaler may perform this stage by using regulated electrical energy to power a heating element that vaporizes the substance in the reservoir. This heating element may be a resistance heating coil, a ceramic heater, or a mesh coil, used to convert electrical energy into heat energy. When current flows through the heating element, its resistance causes the element to heat up rapidly, typically reaching a temperature range between 180°C and 220°C, sufficient to vaporize common inhaled substances.

[0037] When a user activates the device—whether by pressing the start button or by inhaling through the mouthpiece to trigger the airflow sensor—vaporization occurs. Upon activation, the device releases energy stored in its capacitor-based energy storage element via a heating element. This discharge process lasts approximately 1 to 10 seconds, providing sufficient power to heat the element and vaporize the substance. The vaporized substance is then carried by the airflow through the device to the mouthpiece for the user to inhale.

[0038] Figure 2 An example method flowchart for storing energy in a capacitor and supplying electrical power to a portable inhalation device, according to one or more embodiments herein, is presented. This method enables the operation of a power-constrained device by accumulating energy in a capacitive energy storage element over a long period.

[0039] Step 210 may include connecting the adapter device to a power source. This step may be similar to step 110 described above, whereby the user connects the adapter device to an external power source (such as a USB port or wall power outlet). The adapter device may include power regulation circuitry and one or more capacitive energy storage elements configured to accumulate electrical energy from the power source.

[0040] Step 220 may involve storing energy from the power source in a capacitor of the adapter device. In the example, the power regulation circuitry can perform this step by implementing a trickle charging mode. During trickle charging, the adapter device draws a limited amount of current from the power source to continuously charge the capacitor with a small current over an extended period, slowly accumulating energy in the capacitor. This trickle charging mode is particularly useful when the power source has strict power output limitations, such as a smartphone that can only provide a maximum of 4.5 watts of power.

[0041] The capacitor can be any capacitive energy storage element suitable for storing electrical energy, including electrolytic capacitors, supercapacitors, double-layer capacitors, or dielectric capacitors. In some embodiments, the adapter device may include multiple capacitors arranged in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to achieve the desired voltage and capacitance characteristics. The capacitor stores energy through the electric field between the conductive plates, supporting rapid charge-discharge cycles without the chemical degradation commonly found in batteries.

[0042] The trickle charging process can continue until the capacitor reaches a predetermined charge level, such as 80% or 90% of its maximum rated voltage, or a level that matches the power requirements of the vaporization components within the inhalation device. The power regulation circuit monitors the capacitor voltage and adjusts the charging current accordingly. When the capacitor voltage approaches its maximum value, the charging current can be reduced to prevent overcharging. The time required for a full charge depends on the capacitor's capacitance, the power supply's output capability, and the efficiency of the power regulation circuit. In some examples, charging may take anywhere from 10 seconds to 5 minutes.

[0043] Phase 230 may include disconnecting the adapter device from the power source. This phase may be initiated by the user physically disconnecting the device from the power source, or it may be performed automatically when the adapter device detects that the capacitor has reached a sufficient charge level. In some examples, the adapter device may remain connected to the power source during operation, thereby enabling continuous trickle charging between atomization operations. In other examples, the adapter device may be designed for use in portable scenarios after charging, similar to a battery-powered device, but with the advantages of significantly reduced charging time and significantly extended cycle life.

[0044] When an adapter device is disconnected from the power source, the capacitor can retain its stored charge for a period of time, the duration of which depends on the capacitor's self-discharge rate and any leakage currents in the device's circuitry. Compared to batteries, supercapacitors and supercapacitors may have relatively high self-discharge rates, potentially losing most of their charge within hours or days. However, for frequently used devices, this self-discharge may not be a significant limitation, especially where power is readily available, such as in mobile phones or tablets.

[0045] Phase 240 may include supplying power to the portable inhalation device via a capacitor to vaporize the material to be inhaled. In the example, when the user activates the device, power regulation circuitry may control the capacitor to discharge through a heating element. This discharge may be controlled by switching circuitry such as MOSFETs or other solid-state switches, which are capable of rapidly switching on and off to regulate the current.

[0046] The power delivered to the heating element during discharge can be significantly higher than the power drawn from the power source during charging. For example, the device might draw only 3 to 4 watts of power from a smartphone during trickle charging, while delivering 20 to 50 watts to the heating element during discharge. This power amplification effect is achieved because the energy that slowly accumulates in the capacitor over time can be rapidly released during the brief atomization phase.

[0047] The power delivered to the heating element can be kept relatively constant during the capacitor discharge voltage drop by controlling the discharge process. This can be achieved through pulse width modulation (PWM) or other control techniques that adjust the duty cycle of the switching circuit to compensate for the voltage drop. The discharge process will continue until the user shuts down the device, the capacitor voltage drops below a minimum threshold, or the maximum discharge duration is reached for safety reasons.

[0048] Figure 3 illustrates an example embodiment comprising a cartridge adapter 310 and a standard cartridge 320. In some examples, the standard cartridge 320 may be a commercially available existing atomizer design. The cartridge 320 may include a connector (e.g., a 510 threaded connector), an atomizer, a reservoir, and a mouthpiece. When a user inhales through the mouthpiece, air enters the atomizer coil, and a small amount of substance in the reservoir is atomized for inhalation. The 510 connector is typically used to connect a battery to the atomizer.

[0049] However, in this embodiment, a cartridge adapter 310 may be provided. The example atomizer adapter 310 does not have a battery. Instead, the example cartridge adapter 310 is shown as a single unit comprising a power-side connector (a USB connector in this example) and an integrated PCBA for proper power regulation of the cartridge 320. As shown, a portion of the cartridge adapter 310 may include a 510 connector port designed for mating with a matching 510 connector on the standard cartridge 320.

[0050] It should be noted that although the connector may be described as a "510" type connector (commonly used in cartridges) in this document, this solution is not limited to this specific connector type. Any interface capable of establishing a physical and electrical connection between the adapter 310 and the cartridge 320 may be used, including but not limited to threaded connectors, pin connectors, friction-fit connectors, magnetic connectors, or other suitable connection mechanisms.

[0051] The cartridge adapter 310 may be equipped with a power regulation circuit that can regulate the voltage and current supplied to the cartridge 320. Regardless of fluctuations in the external power input, this circuit ensures that the power supplied to the atomizer inside the cartridge 320 remains within the appropriate operating range for atomization. This power regulation circuit may also integrate safety functions such as overcurrent protection, overvoltage protection, and thermal management to prevent device damage or user injury.

[0052] In some embodiments, the cartridge adapter 310 may include one or more capacitive energy storage elements, such as capacitors or supercapacitors, for storing energy received from a power source. These capacitive energy storage elements enable the device to slowly accumulate energy from a power-limited source and then rapidly release that energy to the heating element during atomization. This design allows the device to be compatible with power-powered devices with strict power output limitations, such as smartphones.

[0053] The cartridge 320 may include a reservoir for holding atomizable substance. The reservoir may be made of glass, plastic, or other suitable materials and may be designed to be transparent or translucent so that the user can observe the remaining substance. In some embodiments, the reservoir is refillable, allowing the user to replenish it when the substance is low. In other embodiments, the cartridge 320 may be a disposable design, replacing the entire cartridge once the substance is depleted.

[0054] The cartridge 320 may contain a heating element (such as a coil or ceramic element) that comes into contact with an wicking material. The wicking material transports the atomized substance from the e-liquid reservoir to the heating element via capillary action. When the heating element is energized, it heats the substance in the wicking material to its vaporization temperature, producing vapor that the user can inhale.

[0055] The mouthpiece of the e-cigarette cartridge is designed to provide users with a comfortable vapor inhalation interface. The mouthpiece can be made of materials such as plastic, silicone, or metal, and features a streamlined design that conforms to the user's mouth. In some implementations, the mouthpiece may be designed as a detachable structure for easy cleaning or replacement.

[0056] Figure 4 Another exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 4 One embodiment is a direct-connection cartridge 420. With Figure 3 The examples are different. Figure 4The example cartridge 420 is a single unit, eliminating the need to connect a traditional cartridge to a cartridge adapter. Instead, the direct-connect cartridge 420 includes... Figure 4 The product includes a power interface labeled "USB", a circuit board labeled "PCBA", an atomizer, a reservoir, and a mouthpiece.

[0057] In this example, the atomizer, reservoir, and mouthpiece operate in the same way as... Figure 3 The cartridge 320 is essentially the same. When the user inhales through the mouthpiece, air enters the cartridge, and a small amount of liquid in the reservoir is atomized by the atomizer for inhalation. However, in this embodiment, the electrical power driving the cartridge is directly supplied to the cartridge from the power interface via the PCBA. In other words, there is no detachable connector between the PCBA and the cartridge. Instead, the PCBA can be configured to directly power the cartridge, for example, by directly connecting the cartridge via hardwired wiring.

[0058] This design eliminates the need for adapters and connectors to connect the cartridge to the power source. This not only reduces product complexity and cost but also minimizes the need for users to match the cartridge to a power source. For example, users no longer need to ensure that different components have matching thread specifications to use the atomizer. At the same time, this design eliminates the drawbacks of built-in batteries, resulting in a smaller, lighter, more economical, and safer product.

[0059] Figure 5 An example block diagram of a battery-free atomization system in one or more embodiments is shown. The system may include a device 510 that interfaces with an external power source 560. Device 510 may be configured with a power regulation circuit 520 for receiving electrical energy from the external power source 560. The power regulation circuit 520 is capable of regulating the voltage and current to levels suitable for operation of the portable inhalation device 530.

[0060] The portable inhalation device 530 may include a heating element 540 and a vaporizable material 550. The heating element 540 is capable of receiving regulated electrical energy from a power regulation circuit 520. The heating element 540 can convert electrical energy into heat energy, causing the vaporizable material 550 to reach its vaporization temperature. When the heating element 540 heats the vaporizable material 550, the material can change from a liquid or solid state to a gaseous state.

[0061] The external power supply 560 can be any standardized power delivery system. In some examples, the external power supply 560 can be a USB port on a computing device such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. In the example, the USB port can provide 5 volts DC, and its current supply capability varies depending on the specific USB specification. For example, a USB 2.0 port can provide up to 500 mA, a USB 3.0 port can provide up to 900 mA, while ports supporting the USB PowerDelivery specification can provide higher currents, up to 3 amps or more.

[0062] In other embodiments, the external power source 560 may be a wall outlet providing standard voltage AC power, such as 120 volts AC in North America or 240 volts AC in other regions. The power conditioning circuitry 520 may include an AC-to-DC converter for converting AC power into DC power suitable for the heating element 540. The external power source 560 may also be a portable power bank, a vehicle USB charging port, or any other power supply system capable of providing power to the device 510.

[0063] The power regulation circuit 520 performs multiple functions to ensure safe and efficient power delivery. This circuit can detect the type and performance of the external power supply 560. For example, the circuit can determine whether the power supply is a 500 mA current-limited USB 2.0 port, a 900 mA current-limited USB 3.0 port, or a USB Power Delivery port with higher current carrying capacity. The circuit can also negotiate with the power supply via the USB Power Delivery protocol to request the optimal power level.

[0064] The power conditioning circuit 520 regulates the voltage received from the external power supply 560 to a voltage level suitable for the heating element 540. In some examples, the heating element 540 may operate in a voltage range of 3 to 5 volts. The power conditioning circuit 520 may include voltage regulation components such as a buck converter, a linear regulator, or a switching regulator to reduce higher input voltages or boost lower input voltages to a target voltage level.

[0065] The power regulation circuit 520 can also limit the current drawn from the external power supply 560, keeping it within the power supply's capability range. This current limiting function prevents the device 510 from triggering the power supply's overcurrent protection mechanism. For example, when connected to a mobile phone that can provide a maximum current of 900 mA, the power regulation circuit 520 can limit the current draw to 800 mA or less to provide a safety margin.

[0066] Heating element 540 can be a resistance heating element that generates heat when an electric current passes through it. This heating element can be made of stainless steel, other metals or alloys, ceramic, or other materials with suitable resistivity and thermal properties. The resistance of heating element 540, when a given voltage is applied, will determine its power consumption.

[0067] The atomizable material 550 can be any substance intended for inhalation. In some examples, the atomizable material 550 can be a liquid containing propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavoring, and / or optionally nicotine or other active ingredients. The atomizable material 550 can be stored in a reservoir within the portable inhalation device 530 and delivered to the heating element 540 via a wick or other delivery mechanism.

[0068] The system shown in Figure 5 can operate without a built-in battery. Device 510 does not need to store energy in a chemical battery; instead, it can draw power directly from an external power source 560 during operation. This direct power supply eliminates the need for battery charging circuitry, a battery management system, and even the battery itself. Eliminating the battery configuration reduces device weight, simplifies the device structure, lowers manufacturing costs, and eliminates environmental problems associated with battery disposal.

[0069] Figure 6 Example block diagrams of a battery-free atomizing system according to one or more embodiments herein are provided. The system may include a device 610 connected to an external power source 670. Device 610 may include a power regulation circuit 620 that receives electrical energy from the external power source 670. The power regulation circuit 620 may regulate voltage and current to appropriate levels suitable for operation of a portable inhalation device 640. The portable inhalation device 640 may be used in conjunction with reference to… Figure 5 The portable inhalation device 530 described is the same as or similar to the one described above. Similarly, the external power supply 670 may be compatible with the referenced... Figure 5 The external power supply described is the same as or similar to the 560.

[0070] In the example, Figure 6 The illustrated device 610 includes a capacitor 630. The capacitor 630 stores energy received from a power source 670 and releases the stored energy to a portable inhalation device 640. The capacitor 630 enables the device to slowly accumulate energy from a power-limited source and then rapidly release the energy to a heating element 650 during vaporization. This allows the device to draw energy from a power source with strict power output limitations, such as a smartphone.

[0071] Capacitor element 630 can be any type of capacitive storage element suitable for storing electrical energy. In some embodiments, capacitor element 630 can be a supercapacitor, also known as an electric double-layer capacitor. Supercapacitors can store significantly more energy than conventional capacitors and can provide high power output during discharge. In other embodiments, capacitor element 630 can be a dielectric capacitor, which stores energy in the form of an electric field by using a dielectric material between conductive plates. Dielectric capacitors can include ceramic capacitors, film capacitors, or other types. Furthermore, capacitor element 630 can also be an electrolytic capacitor, which achieves a larger capacitance per unit volume by using an electrolyte. Any type of capacitor capable of providing suitable energy storage and release within the required operating range of the portable inhalation device can be used.

[0072] Device 610 can implement a "trickle charging" mode, allowing capacitor 630 to slowly accumulate energy. In this mode, device 610 can draw a limited current from power supply 670 for an extended period. For example, when the maximum output power of the power supply is 4.5 watts, device 610 can continuously draw 3 watts of power to charge capacitor 630. Experiments have verified that capacitor 630 can accumulate sufficient energy to support atomization operations lasting several seconds within a cycle of 30 seconds to several minutes.

[0073] The power regulation circuit 620 determines the charging status by monitoring the voltage across the capacitor 630. When the capacitor voltage reaches a preset threshold (e.g., 80% or 90% of the rated maximum voltage), the device 610 will issue a ready signal. The device 610 may be configured with indicator lights or other user interface elements to convey charging status information to the user.

[0074] When the user activates the portable inhalation device, the power regulation circuit 620 can be disconnected from the power supply 670, allowing the capacitor 630 to discharge through the heating element 650. This disconnection can be achieved internally (e.g., by turning off an internal switch) or externally by the user (e.g., by removing the charging cable from the device). The discharge process can proceed rapidly, providing high instantaneous power to the heating element 650 without drawing excessive current from the power supply 670. For example, the capacitor 630 can discharge at a power of 20 to 50 watts within seconds, which is sufficient to heat the heating element 650 to its atomization temperature even if the power supply 670 can only continuously provide 4.5 watts.

[0075] After the vaporization session ends, capacitor 630 can be recharged by connecting it to power supply 670 after reconnecting to power regulation circuit 620. Depending on the capacitor capacity and the power requirements of heating element 650, the device can support multiple vaporization sessions when the capacitor is fully charged. In some examples, a single full charge can provide 1 to 10 vaporization sessions.

[0076] The device 610 can be configured to operate when connected to a power source 670 or after disconnection. In some embodiments, the user can keep the device connected to a power source during use, allowing the device to continuously trickle charge the capacitor 630 during atomization intervals. In other examples, the user can charge the device for a period of time, then disconnect the power source, perform multiple atomization operations, and only reconnect the power source when recharging is required.

[0077] The portable inhalation device 640 can be modularly designed and equipped with replaceable cartridges. The cartridge may include external components of the device 610, such as a reservoir for storing atomizable material 660, a heating element 650, a mouthpiece, and in some examples, an additional rechargeable power source. The device 610 is responsible for converting electrical energy into the energy required for inhalation heating, while the cartridge provides the material reservoir and heating element. This modular design allows users to replace the cartridge when the atomizable material runs out or when switching to a different substance.

[0078] In other examples, device 610 and portable inhalation device 640 can be integrated into a single unit. In this configuration, power regulation circuitry 620, capacitor 630, heating element 650, and atomizable material reservoir 660 can all be housed within a single housing. This integrated design allows for a more compact form factor and eliminates the need for connectors between the power supply components and the heating element.

[0079] Compared to traditional battery-powered atomizing devices, Figure 6 The system shown offers several advantages. By eliminating the battery, the device achieves lighter weight, smaller size, and lower manufacturing costs. It also boasts a longer lifespan because the capacitor can withstand significantly more charge-discharge cycles than a battery without noticeable performance degradation. The device charges faster than battery-powered devices because the capacitor can accept charge at a much higher rate. Furthermore, the device is safer, as the capacitor eliminates the thermal runaway risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.

[0080] In some examples, device 610 may include multiple capacitors 630 arranged in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to achieve desired voltage and capacitance characteristics. Series connection of capacitors 630 increases the rated voltage, while parallel connection increases the total capacitance. Power regulation circuit 620 may include battery balancing circuitry to ensure uniform charging and discharging of the series capacitors 630 and prevent overvoltage in any individual capacitor 630.

[0081] Device 610 can be configured to provide users with feedback on charging and operational status. Indicator lights can indicate charging, full charge, discharging, or fault status by displaying different colors or flashing patterns. For example, a pulsed green light indicates charging, a solid green light indicates that it is fully charged and ready, a pulsed blue light indicates that the atomizer is in operation, and a red light indicates fault status such as overheating or short circuit.

[0082] Device 610 may include thermal management features to dissipate heat generated during operation. Power regulation circuitry 620 may generate heat during voltage conversion, while heating element 650 generates significant heat during atomization. The device housing may be configured with heat sinks, vents, or thermally conductive material to conduct heat away from sensitive elements and prevent overheating. In some examples, the device may be equipped with a temperature sensor to monitor device temperature and automatically reduce power or shut down the device when the temperature exceeds a safe threshold.

[0083] Capacitor 630 has a self-discharge rate, causing it to gradually lose charge over time when not connected to a power source. The self-discharge rate can vary depending on the capacitor type; supercapacitors typically have a higher self-discharge rate than electrolytic capacitors. Device 610 is designed to address this self-discharge characteristic accordingly. In some examples, device 610 may include low-power monitoring circuitry to periodically detect the capacitor voltage and alert the user when the charge level drops below an operational level. In other examples, the device may be designed for frequent use, where the self-discharge issue will not be significant due to the periodic charging characteristic.

[0084] Figure 7 Demonstrates an integrable Figure 1-6 A perspective view of an exemplary handheld device housing featuring one or more power management and atomization features. Figure 7 The example illustrates the external form of a battery-free aerosol device that can be connected to an external power source, regulate the received electrical energy, selectively store energy, and deliver the regulated or stored energy to a portable inhalation device. The outer casing also provides a user control interface and status indication functions.

[0085] exist Figure 7In the example device, a main body portion 710 is provided. This main body portion 710 constitutes an outer housing encapsulating internal components, including power regulation circuitry, one or more capacitors, and in some examples, at least a portion of the structure of a portable inhalation device (such as an atomizer, cartridge, or integrated atomizer assembly). For example, the main body portion 710 may be formed as an elongated housing with rounded corners and a smooth outer contour, allowing the user to comfortably hold it in their palm during operation.

[0086] The main body 710 may define an internal cavity. This internal cavity may be configured to accommodate a circuit board carrying power regulation circuitry, which is similar to... Figure 5 The circuit 520 shown or Figure 6 The circuit 620 shown. This internal cavity can also be further configured to accommodate one or more capacitors, similar to... Figure 6 The capacitor shown is 630.

[0087] For example, the main body 710 may include an internal mounting structure that supports the printed circuit board and mechanically secures one or more capacitors inside the device.

[0088] A power-side connector 720 may be disposed in the lower end region of the main body portion 710. This power-side connector 720 may be configured to enable... Figure 7 The device shown is connected to an external power source, for example... Figure 5 External power supply 560 shown in Figure 5 or external power supply 670 shown in Figure 6. For example, power-side connector 720 may include a USB-type plug that extends from or is embedded within body portion 710 and can connect to the corresponding USB interface of a mobile phone, tablet, computer, or wall adapter.

[0089] In another embodiment, the power-side connector 720 may include a set of foldable pins that can be folded into the housing 710 when not in use and can be extended outwards for direct insertion into a wall socket when in use. The power-side connector 720 may be electrically connected to an internal power conditioning circuit, and in some embodiments may also be connected to a capacitor within the housing 710, enabling the device to receive, regulate, and selectively store energy from an external power source.

[0090] An operation button 730 may be located on the front surface of the main body 710. This operation button 730 may be configured to allow a user to control one or more operating states of the device. For example, the operation button 730 may be configured to allow energy stored in a capacitor to pass through a heating element (similar to...). Figure 5 Heating element 540 or Figure 6The heating element 650 in the middle discharges to initiate the atomization event. In another example, the operation button 730 can be configured to trigger a charging mode, wherein the power regulation circuit can draw power from the power-side connector 720 at a controlled rate, for example, using a similar... Figure 6 The aforementioned trickle charging technology. For example, a short press of the operation button 730 can be interpreted as an instruction to start the atomization cycle, while a long press can be interpreted as an instruction to enter or exit the charging-only mode. The operation button 730 can be implemented as a mechanical push button, a capacitive touch sensor, or other types of user input devices. For example, the operation button 730 can be a dome-shaped haptic switch mounted on a built-in circuit board, activated by a plastic or metal keycap forming part of the outer surface of the main body 710.

[0091] A cartridge connector 740 may be provided at the upper end of the main body 710. This connector 740 can... Figure 7 The device shown is connected to a portable inhalation device (such as a cartridge, cartridge, or other replaceable liquid reservoir). For example, the cartridge connector 740 may include a threaded interface, such as a threaded connection similar to... Figure 3 The 510 type connector described in the middle cartridge adapter 310 and cartridge 320.

[0092] In another example, the cartridge connector 740 may include a magnetic coupling structure capable of receiving a cartridge with a complementary magnetic base, as in some modular cartridge designs discussed elsewhere in this specification. For example, the cartridge 740 may have an annular groove to accommodate a cylindrical cartridge, within which one or more electrical contacts are provided for providing positive and negative connections to a heating element within the cartridge.

[0093] The cartridge connector 740 can be electrically connected to a circuit board inside the main body 710. This internal circuit board can direct regulated power from the power regulation circuit or capacitor discharge current to the cartridge connector 740, so that the heating element in the connected cartridge receives appropriate vaporization power. For example, when the user triggers the operation button 730, the circuit board can close the switching element connecting the capacitor and the cartridge connector 740 to deliver a controlled vaporization pulse.

[0094] An indicator light 750 may be provided on the front surface of the main body 710. This indicator light 750 can be used to provide visual feedback to the user on the operating status of the device. For example, when the device is connected to a power source via the power-side connector 720 and is charging its internal capacitor, the indicator light 750 may emit light of the first color.

[0095] In another example, when the capacitor reaches a predetermined charging state and the device is ready to perform atomization, indicator light 750 may emit a second color of light or flash. For example, when the capacitor voltage reaches a threshold corresponding to a desired energy level (such as 80% or 90% charging level as described in Figure 6), indicator light 750 may emit a stable green light.

[0096] Indicator light 750 can also be configured to indicate fault conditions. For example, when the power regulation circuit detects overheating, overcurrent, or a short circuit at the cartridge connector 740, indicator light 750 can alert the user to temporarily suspend operation through a specific flashing pattern or by switching to a third color. Indicator light 750 can be implemented as a single-color LED, a multi-color LED, or an LED group. This indicator light 750 can be... Figure 6 The indicator light driving circuit described in device 610 is controlled by the same or similar driving circuit.

[0097] One or more adjustment buttons 760 may be provided on one side of the main body 710. The adjustment button 760 can be used to allow the user to adjust the operating parameters of the equipment. For example, the adjustment button 760 can be used to select between different power levels or evaporation profiles, such as low, medium, and high heating power.

[0098] In another example, adjustment button 760 can be configured to set the duration of the vaporization event. For example, pressing one of the adjustment buttons 760 for the first time increases the target discharge interval from three seconds to five seconds, and pressing it again further increases the target interval to eight seconds, until the preset maximum vaporization window duration is reached.

[0099] The adjustment button 760 can be connected to the same microcontroller or logic circuit, which can, as Figure 5 and Figure 6 The circuitry manages trickle charging, discharging control, and safety monitoring. For example, when the user selects a higher power setting via adjustment button 760, the control circuitry can increase the discharge current setting of the heating element and accordingly adjust the minimum capacitor charging level required before initiating a vaporization event.

[0100] The adjustment button 760 can also be used to configure power-related behavior. For example, in some implementations, a user can use the adjustment button 760 to select a conservative current-limiting mode suitable for smartphone power supplies (such as iPhones), or a higher current mode suitable for wall adapters that can provide higher power.

[0101] Figure 7The example of the main body portion 710 shown may also include internal structural features not visible in the figure. These internal features may include positioning posts for securing the printed circuit board, wiring channels for laying internal connections between the power-side connector 720, the consumable connector 740, and the buttons and indicator lights, and features in the configuration of the device as an integrated direct-connect consumable (similar to...). Figure 4 The consumable material 420) is used to support the structural features of the internal liquid storage tank.

[0102] For example, the general external structure shown in the main body 710 of the diagram is also applicable to... Figure 6 The portable inhalation device 640 shown is an integrated device within a housing. In this configuration, the connector 740 serves as an opening for securing the built-in liquid reservoir rather than a slot for a removable cartridge, while the built-in capacitor and power regulation circuitry can be arranged along the length of the main body 710.

[0103] The power connector 720, operation button 730, connector 740, indicator light 750, and adjustment button 760 can be arranged in other ways on the main body 710. For example, the operation button 730 can be repositioned to the side of the main body 710, and the indicator light 750 can be moved closer to the connector 740 so that the user can clearly see the status of the indicator light when observing the connected cartridge.

[0104] In some examples, the power-side connector 720 may be implemented as a recessed port rather than a protruding plug. For example, the power-side connector 720 may include a USB-C receptacle flush with the lower surface of the body portion 710, allowing the user to connect an external cable between the receptacle and an external power source. Therefore, Figure 7 The universal housing structure shown can support both plug-type and port-type power-side connectors in different model variants.

[0105] Figure 8A and Figure 8B Different perspective views of the example handheld adapter device are provided, which integrates one or more of the aforementioned external power supply and consumable connection functions. Two illustrations show different sides of the same example device to provide a common understanding of the external functional areas and their relative positions on the common body portion.

[0106] exist Figure 8A In the example, a main body portion 810 may be provided. This main body portion 810 may constitute an outer housing for encapsulating a similar... Figure 5 Medium circuit 520 or Figure 6The power regulation circuit and other internal circuits of the intermediate circuit 620. The main body 810 may have a polyhedral geometry, for example, it may include a set of planar facets intersecting along the edges, making the device less prone to rolling when placed on a table. The main body 810 may be made of plastic, metal or composite materials, thereby providing mechanical strength and thermal management support for the internal components of the device.

[0107] like Figure 8A As shown, a connection port 820 can be formed in the lower region of the main body portion 810. This connection port 820 can define an opening extending inward from the outer surface of the main body portion, for example, it can be designed as a circular recess to accommodate a threaded connector 830. The connection port 820 can be positioned at the center of an inclined section, allowing the user to observe and operate the interface from multiple angles when powering on the device or connecting consumable components.

[0108] A threaded connector 830 may be disposed within the connection port 820. For example, the threaded connector 830 may include a means for connecting a portable inhalation device (such as...). Figure 3 The shown cartridge 320 has an internal thread structure on its external male connector. The threaded connector 830 can adopt a 510 type interface specification for compatibility with existing atomizers. For example, the threaded connector 830 can be configured with a central positive contact and a surrounding threaded negative contact, thereby allowing the atomizer from a capacitor (similar to...) to... Figure 6 The electrical energy of the capacitor 630 can be transferred to the heating element inside the coupling atomizer. In other embodiments, the threaded connector 830 can be replaced or combined with a magnetic connector or a push-in connector to be compatible with atomizers of various sizes.

[0109] One or more indicators 840 and 850 may be set in Figure 8A The side of the main body 810. Each indicator 840 and 850 can be designed such that the luminous area is optically connected to the internal LED, similar to... Figure 6 The indicator light described in device 610. For example, indicator 840 can be used to provide feedback on the charging status of the internal capacitor: when the device is connected via a similar... Figure 7 When the power interface 720 draws power from an external power source, the indicator 840 displays a first illumination mode; when the capacitor reaches a threshold charge level suitable for atomization, it switches to a second illumination mode. The indicator 850 is used to display active discharge status or fault detection status, for example, during startup. Figure 7 The control button 730 remains lit during the atomization cycle, and switches to flashing mode when the internal sensor detects an overheating condition.

[0110] Indicator lights 840 and 850 can be vertically spaced along the side of the body portion 810. This spacing design allows the user to discern their meaning even when only peripheral vision is available. When the connecting element 820 is connected to a horizontal power supply, indicator lights 840 and 850 can be positioned on a slightly outward-sloping ridge to ensure that visual information is always visible to the user during charging or use.

[0111] Figure 8B This view shows another perspective of the same example main body 810. In this view, an operation button 860 is visible on the front facet of the main body 810. This operation button 860 can be used to control the storage of capacitor energy. Figure 8A The threaded connector 830 discharges the connected cartridge. For example, the operation button 860 can be a mechanical push-button that can trigger a similar... Figure 10 A switch on the internal circuit board of circuit board 1040. In another embodiment, the operation button 860 can be a capacitive touch area, which senses contact operation through the wall of the main body 810.

[0112] The operation button 860 can be extended vertically, allowing the user to locate the button by touch while holding the device, without having to look directly at the device casing.

[0113] The power-side connector 870 can be located at Figure 8B The lower region of the main body portion 810. The power-side connector 870 can be used to connect... Figure 8A and Figure 8B The device shown is connected to an external power source and functions similarly to... Figure 6 The external power supply 670 is included. For example, the power-side connector 870 may be designed as a recessed USB-C interface for inserting external cables. In another example, the power-side connector 870 may be designed as a slot for inserting a dedicated magnetic plug. Figure 8B The elongated shape of the power-side connector 870 incorporates a keyway structure to prevent mis-insertion and ensures the cable is not oriented incorrectly. This power-side connector 870 can be electrically connected to an internal power regulation circuit, functioning similarly to… Figure 5 The circuit 520 in the middle converts electrical energy from a mobile phone or wall adapter into capacitor charging power, which in turn powers the e-cigarette cartridge.

[0114] For example, integrating the connection port 820, threaded connector 830, operation button 860, indicator lights 840 and 850, and power-side connector 870 onto a common body portion 810 can constitute an integrated adapter device. This integrated adapter device can be configured to receive electrical energy from a power-limited power source via the power-side connector 870, process and optionally store the electrical energy within the housing, and then deliver the processed or stored power to a replaceable cartridge via the threaded connector 830. In this way, Figure 8A and Figure 8B The external geometry shown can support, for example, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The internal architecture also presents a compact handheld form, allowing users to operate comfortably in multiple directions.

[0115] Figure 9A and Figure 9B An external view of a sample handheld adapter device is shown, which enables one or more power regulation and battery-free atomization functions.

[0116] The technology described in this article. Figure 10 It shows a placeable Figure 9A and Figure 9B An exploded interior view of an example assembly inside the housing shown.

[0117] exist Figure 9A In this design, the main body portion 910 defines a shell structure surrounding the internal cavity. The main body portion 910 may be generally cuboid in shape, with rounded corners and curved edges. For example, the main body portion 910 may have a thickness suitable for a user's hand grip. The main body portion 910 may be made of plastic, metal, composite materials, or any combination thereof. The main body portion 910 in... Figure 9A The perspective angle defines an inward-facing open side, which can be designed to accommodate internal components, such as... Figure 10 The components shown. Specifically, the main body 910 may have bosses or support structures inside for supporting the circuit board 1040 and other components.

[0118] The operation button 920 may be exposed on the outer surface of the main body 910. The operation button 920 may be designed as a slender recessed area with a rounded rectangular profile. For example, the operation button 920 may be located near the center of a wide surface of the main body 910 so that it can be easily reached by the user's thumb when holding the device. The operation button 920 may be configured to... Figure 10 A switch on the circuit board 1040 forms a mechanical or electrical connection. This button can send a control signal to trigger a charging mode, a discharging mode, or both. For example, a short press of the operation button 920 can be interpreted as a request to start atomizing discharge, while a long press can be interpreted as a request to enter or exit trickle charging mode.

[0119] like Figure 9A As shown, the small hole on the main body 910 can be designated as an indicator light 930. This indicator light 930 can correspond to an LED mounted on a circuit board.

[0120] For example, indicator light 930 can indicate the relationship between the indicator light and the target image by emitting different colors or flashing patterns. Figure 10The charging state, discharging state, or fault condition of the power regulation circuit 1020 and capacitor 1030 shown.

[0121] exist Figure 9A In the middle, a slot on one side wall of the main body 910 can form a power interface 940. This power interface 940 can expose a connection for an external power source (similar to...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 The external power supply 560 or 670) is a port, plug, or other interface. For example, the power interface 940 may be a USB-C female connector mounted on the circuit board 1040, or an opening through which an onboard USB-A or USB-C plug 1010 passes. Specifically, the power interface 940 may be configured to allow... Figure 9A and Figure 9B The device shown can connect to mobile phones, tablets, laptops, wall adapters, or car chargers. Power interface 940 is compatible with... Figure 10 The power interface 1010 shown is kept coaxially positioned so that mechanical loads during insertion and removal can be transmitted to the main body 910.

[0122] Figure 9B This presents another perspective on the same main subject, 910. Figure 9B In this configuration, the operation button 920 may be located on the wide outer surface of the main body 910. The indicator light 930 may be visible as a slot or small opening independent of the operation button 920. For example, the indicator light 930 may be positioned closer to the upper end of the main body 910 than the operation button 920.

[0123] Figure 9B This presents another perspective on the same main subject, 910. Figure 9B In this configuration, the operation button 920 can be seen again on the broad outer surface of the main body portion 910. The indicator light 930 can be seen as a slot or small opening independent of the operation button 920. For example, the position of the indicator light 930 may be closer to the upper end of the main body portion 910 than the operation button 920.

[0124] exist Figure 9B In the middle, an air intake 950 may be formed in the end region of the main body portion 910. This air intake 950 defines an airflow opening through which the user can inhale... Figure 10 The mist generated by the heating element 1060. For example, the air intake 950 may be aligned with the internal mist channel of the internal reservoir 1050 and the heating element 1060 extending to the outside of the device.

[0125] In some embodiments, the suction port 950 may be connected to a detachable nozzle. The nozzle may be secured to the suction port 950 via a snap-fit ​​mechanism, either on or inside the suction port 950. In other embodiments, the suction port 950 itself may form an integrated contact area with a smooth, rounded profile. Figure 9A and Figure 9B Taking the illustrated device as an example, the device can operate as a compact, all-in-one adapter: it receives electrical energy via the power-side connector 940, stores energy internally, and provides aerosol through the intake port 950 when activated by the operation button 920. An indicator light 930 provides visual feedback at each stage of this process.

[0126] Figure 10 Demonstrates installation on Figure 9A and Figure 9B An exploded perspective view of the internal components of the main body 910 is shown. A power-side connector 1010 may be mounted near the edge area of ​​the circuit board 1040. This power-side connector 1010 can be any interface for receiving external power, such as a USB-C female connector, a USB-A plug, a Lightning connector, or other standardized / dedicated power interfaces.

[0127] Circuit board 1040 may house power regulation circuit 1020. This power regulation circuit 1020 may include any combination of regulators, converters, controllers, switches, and protection components, and its structure is similar to... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The circuit 520 or 620 is similar. For example, the power regulation circuit 1020 may be configured to limit the current drawn by the smartphone through the power connector 1010 to a safe level (such as 5V / 900mA) and to use the USB Power Delivery protocol power level.

[0128] The power regulation circuit 1020 can be configured to charge the capacitor 1030, which is also mounted on the circuit board 1040. For example... Figure 10 As shown in the circular diagram, capacitor 1030 can be a discrete cylindrical element. For example, capacitor 1030 can be a supercapacitor capable of storing tens of joules of energy at a voltage of several volts, thereby enabling it to deliver a brief high-power discharge to heating element 1060.

[0129] In some embodiments, capacitor 1030 may be multiple capacitor banks connected in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel connections. Figure 10 The standard designation is 1030. For example, multiple capacitors may share the same mounting base and may be encapsulated as a single unit using a potting process, enabling them to... Figure 10 The layer shown presents a form that is approximately a single component.

[0130] The circuit board 1040 may also house control electronics such as a microcontroller, gate driver, current sensor, and temperature sensor, which may form part of the power regulation circuit 1020. For example, the microcontroller may receive a signal from the switch associated with the operation button 920 to determine whether the capacitor 1030 has stored sufficient charge, and then accordingly start or stop the discharge operation of the heating element 1060.

[0131] In the appendix Figure 10 An internal liquid storage chamber 1050 can be disposed above the circuit board 1040. This internal liquid storage chamber 1050 can form a cavity for containing the atomizing material, and its material is similar to that of the attached... Figure 5 and attached Figure 6 The materials 550 or 660 are similar. For example, the internal liquid reservoir 1050 can be an injection-molded plastic or metal shell, secured to the circuit board 1040 by fasteners, clips, or adhesives.

[0132] The dimensions and shape of the internal liquid storage tank 1050 must be designed to ensure that it can be integrated with the attached components when assembled to the main body 910. Figure 9B The suction port 950 is aligned as shown. The internal reservoir 1050 may include internal channels or atomizing channels for guiding the mist generated by the heating element 1060 toward the suction port 950. For example, the internal reservoir 1050 may be connected to the reservoir via an oil guide rope to guide liquid from the reservoir to the area below the heating element 1060.

[0133] A heating element 1060 may be disposed above the internal liquid reservoir 1050. The heating element 1060 may comprise a metal or ceramic structure with an embedded resistance heater. For example, the heating element 1060 may be in the form of a threaded collar that can be screwed into a matching threaded opening in the internal liquid reservoir 1050, allowing the liquid or other atomizable material to contact the oil guide core that forms a heat conduction with the resistance heater.

[0134] The heating element 1060 may be configured to receive electrical energy from the capacitor 1030 through lines on the circuit board 1040 and conductive elements extending to the area defined by the internal liquid reservoir 1050. For example, a spring contact at the bottom of the heating element 1060 may contact a pad on the circuit board 1040, allowing the capacitor 1030 to discharge through the heating element 1060 when the control circuit 1020 enables the discharge path.

[0135] For example, when the user presses the operation button 920, the control circuit 1020 can turn on the MOSFET, allowing current to flow from the capacitor 1030 into the heating element 1060. Subsequently, the internal reservoir 1050 can supply liquid to the heating element 1060, which may vaporize the liquid. The generated vapor can then pass through the internal channels of the heating element 1060, through the internal reservoir 1050, and finally escape from the suction nozzle 950.

[0136] like Figure 10 As shown, auxiliary element 1070 may be disposed near heating element 1060. This auxiliary element can be configured for various functions. For example, auxiliary element 1070 may be a temperature sensor that can contact heating element 1060 or internal reservoir 1050 to provide real-time temperature data to power regulation circuitry 1020 on circuit board 1040. In some embodiments, auxiliary element 1070 performs a reservoir function by carrying vaporizable material that can be vaporized by heating element 1060.

[0137] In another example, auxiliary element 1070 may be a mechanical gasket, seal, or washer that can be compressed between heating element 1060 and inner liquid reservoir 1050 to prevent liquid or vapor leakage. For example, auxiliary element 1070 may be an elastomeric sealing ring that also provides electrical insulation between different areas of heating element 1060.

[0138] The auxiliary element 1070 may also take the form of an additional electrical component, such as a secondary indicator light, a vibration motor, or a small secondary capacitor. For example, the auxiliary element 1070 may be configured to store a small amount of electrical energy independently of the capacitor 1030, so that the indicator light 930 can still maintain brief illumination even after the main discharge path to the heating element 1060 is cut off.

[0139] Figure 10 The relatively vertical stacking structure of the circuit board 1040, the internal liquid storage tank 1050, the heating element 1060, and the auxiliary components 1070 can be combined with... Figure 9A and Figure 9B The internal vertical stacking arrangement of the main body 910 corresponds to this. For example, the circuit board 1040 can be placed near the opening side of the main body 910, the internal liquid storage tank 1050 can be centrally located in the cavity, and the heating element 1060 can be arranged in the area adjacent to the nozzle 950.

[0140] For example, the power interface 1010 can be aligned with the power interface opening 940, the indicator LED corresponding to the indicator light 930 can be aligned with the micro-hole marked 930, and the tactile switch on the circuit board 1040 can be aligned with the operation button 920. This spatial alignment design allows the main body 910 to expose functional interfaces to the user and external power supply while protecting and hiding internal components.

[0141] In other examples, Figure 10The internal liquid storage chamber 1050 may not store atomizable material, but may serve as a cartridge compartment or receiving cavity configured to receive replaceable cartridges. In such examples, the heating element 1060 may form part of the replaceable cartridge, while the capacitor 1030 and power regulation circuit 1020 may be retained within the main body 910 as a reusable power module.

[0142] Figure 9A , 9B The example device shown in Figure 10 can be configured in other ways. For example, capacitors 1030 can be rearranged to different areas of circuit board 1040, or multiple capacitors 1030 can be distributed around the internal liquid reservoir 1050 to achieve mass balance and thermal effect equalization, while still maintaining electrical connection with power regulation circuit 1020 and heating element 1060 through conductive traces or wires.

[0143] Those skilled in the art will understand other examples of this disclosure by considering the specification and examples disclosed herein. Although some methods described are presented as a series of steps, it should be understood that one or more steps may occur simultaneously, in an overlapping manner, or in a different order. The presented order of steps merely illustrates multiple possibilities, and these steps may be performed in any suitable manner. Furthermore, the various features of the examples described herein are not mutually exclusive. Rather, any feature of any example described herein can be incorporated into any other suitable example.

Claims

1. An adaptor device for powering a portable inhalation device, characterized in that, include: A power-side connector configured to connect to a power source; A device-side connector configured to connect to the portable inhalation device; as well as A power adapter is configured to adjust electrical energy received from the power source so that the electrical energy can be used by the portable inhalation device, wherein the portable inhalation device uses the adjusted electrical energy from the power adapter, rather than chemical battery power, to vaporize the inhaled substance.

2. The adapter device of claim 1, wherein, The portable inhalation device is at least one of the following: A cartridge containing vaporizable inhalable material; A nebulizer configured to vaporize substances for inhalation.

3. The adapter device of claim 1, wherein, The power source mentioned is a mobile phone.

4. The adapter device of claim 3, wherein, The power adapter is configured to determine a threshold rate at which it can obtain power from the mobile phone, and to receive electrical power from the mobile phone based on that threshold.

5. The adapter device of claim 1, wherein, The adapter device is connected to the portable inhalation device via a power cord.

6. The adapter device of claim 5, wherein, The power cord is fixedly connected to at least one of the power supply side connector and the power source.

7. The adapter device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The adapter device is located within the main body of the portable inhalation device.

8. The adapter device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The portable inhalation device includes a heating element.

9. An adapter device for powering a portable inhalation device without the use of chemical batteries, characterized in that, include: Configured as a power-side connector for connection to a power source; Configured as a device-side connector for connection to a portable inhalation device; as well as A capacitor configured to store energy received from a power source and release the stored energy to a portable inhalation device; The portable inhalation device is configured to atomize material based on the stored energy released by a capacitor.

10. The device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The portable inhalation device said therein includes at least: A cartridge containing atomizable material for inhalation; and A nebulizer is configured to atomize the material for inhalation.

11. The device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The power source is a mobile phone.

12. The device as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The device is configured to determine a threshold energy draw rate from the mobile phone and receive electrical energy from the mobile phone based on that threshold.

13. The device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The capacitor is located within the main body of the portable inhalation device.

14. The device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The capacitors mentioned therein include at least one of supercapacitors, dielectric capacitors, electrolytic capacitors, and ceramic capacitors.

15. A method for providing non-battery power to a portable inhalation device, characterized in that, The method includes: Connect the adapter device to a power source; The adapter device regulates the electrical energy received from the power source; and The regulated electrical energy is supplied to the portable inhaler, which uses regulated electrical energy from the power adapter instead of battery power to vaporize the substance to be inhaled.

16. The method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: Disconnect the adapter device from the power source before supplying regulated power to the portable inhalation device.

17. The method as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The method further includes: The regulated electrical energy is supplied to the portable inhalation device via a capacitor.

18. The method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: Determine the threshold power draw rate of the power source, wherein regulating the power supply includes drawing power from the power source at a rate not exceeding the threshold power draw rate of the power source.

19. The method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: The adapter device is trickle-charged by the power source.

20. The method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: Insert the power cord into at least one of the adapter device and the power source.

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