Electronic inhalation device

Abstract

To provide an electronic inhalation device that enables, by performing monitoring, observation of replacement therapy and determination as to whether the device is working.SOLUTION: Provided is an electronic inhalation device comprising a mouthpiece and a control unit, the control unit comprising a power cell and a computer, where the computer comprises a computer processor, a memory and input-output means. The device further includes a transmitter connected to the computer and the computer is configured to collect and store use data relating to a user's use of the device in the computer memory and transmit the use data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to electronic inhalation devices, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to electronic cigarettes with a computer and a transmitter. [Background technology]

[0002] Electronic inhalation devices are typically cigarette-sized and function by allowing a user to inhale nicotine vapor from a liquid reservoir by applying draw on the mouthpiece. Some electronic inhalation devices include e-cigarettes, which are activated when the user applies draw, causing a heating coil to heat and vaporize the liquid. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An electronic inhalation device comprising a mouthpiece and a control unit, the control unit comprising a battery for power supply and a computer, the computer comprising a computer processing unit, a memory device and an input / output means, the device further comprising a transmitter connected to the computer, the computer configured to collect usage data relating to use of the device by a user and store it in the computer memory device, and to transmit the usage data.

[0004] Storing data is advantageous in that it allows for monitoring of data regarding the user's smoking and usage habits, which is important when using the device as a cigarette replacement, as such monitoring makes it possible to monitor substitution therapy and determine whether the device is working. Transmitting stored usage data allows the user to read the data and transmit it to a receiving device for monitoring their use of the device.

[0005] Preferably, the electronic inhalation device is an electronic cigarette.

[0006] Preferably, the computer is a microcontroller.

[0007] Preferably, the transmitter is arranged to transmit the usage data by wireless means.

[0008] Preferably, the transmitter is an audio signal generating means and is arranged to transmit the usage data by audio.

[0009] By providing a wireless transmission means, data can be transmitted and shared without using a cumbersome wired interface. This eliminates the need for an access port on the device. Transmission by wireless means requires a transmitter within the device, but when transmitting by voice, the transmitter can be a simple component such as a buzzer or speaker. This component is an inexpensive yet useful component, and by using it, it is possible to transmit data by modulating voice. Furthermore, the voice generator can also perform other functions.

[0010] Preferably, the usage data includes a puff count, which is a count of the number of puffs taken by a user using the device, and is preferably stored in one or two bytes of data storage.

[0011] Preferably, the usage data includes an average inhalation time, which is an average representative value for each inhalation counted by the number of inhalations, and preferably, the average inhalation time is stored in one or two bytes of data storage.

[0012] Preferably, the usage data includes a session count, which is a count of the number of times each inhalation period has occurred. Preferably, the session count is stored in a one-byte or two-byte data storage device. Preferably, an inhalation period ends when the device is stopped for a predetermined stop time after inhalation into the device.

[0013] By storing data regarding the number of puffs, average inhalation time, and number of sessions, data storage requirements are minimized while still storing important information. The number of puffs and number of sessions are simply counts and can be changed and updated in computer storage, so only one value is needed. Similarly, the average period can be changed and updated in storage, so only one value is needed. Therefore, storage capacity requirements are significantly reduced.

[0014] Preferably, the usage data is stored in 8 bytes or less of data storage.

[0015] Preferably, the usage data is optimized for transmission by voice.

[0016] Minimizing data is advantageous because it allows data to be sent more quickly and repeatedly within a short time period, eliminating the need for the user to wait for transmissions. By storing data in eight bytes or less of data storage, the data to be transmitted is minimized, thereby speeding up the transmission process. Minimizing data can be important when transmitting data via modulated voice.

[0017] Preferably, the usage data further includes header data at the beginning of the data to indicate the start of the data.

[0018] Preferably, the usage data further includes footer data at the end of the data to indicate the end of the data.

[0019] Preferably, the usage data further includes configuration data near the beginning of the data that indicates how the data is to be configured and transmitted.

[0020] Preferably, the configuration data indicates a frequency range over which the data is to be transmitted.

[0021] Preferably, the configuration data indicates a time period during which the data is to be transmitted.

[0022] Preferably, the configuration data indicates the strength at which data is to be transmitted.

[0023] The additional data added to the main part of the used data serves to provide the receiving means with useful information about the data being transmitted. By adding the header data that the receiving means is expecting, the receiving means is sure to recognize that this header data will be followed by more data. Similarly, by adding the footer data, the receiving means is sure to recognize that the data transmission has ended. The use of configuration data is important, as it allows the receiver to configure itself and prepare to send data. In the case of audio transmissions, the data can be modulated onto different frequency ranges, for different durations, or with different intensities. Therefore, the configuration data is useful for understanding how the data will be transmitted.

[0024] Preferably, the usage data includes details of each inhalation event. Preferably, the details of each inhalation event include the date and time of each inhalation. Preferably, the details of each inhalation event include the duration of each inhalation.

[0025] Preferably, the computer is configured to transmit the first transmitted version of the usage data and the second transmitted version of the usage data consecutively.

[0026] Preferably, the first transmitted version is substantially identical to the second transmitted version.

[0027] Preferably, the first and second transmission versions are in different frequency ranges.

[0028] Preferably, the first and second transmission versions are of different durations.

[0029] Preferably, the first and second transmitted versions are of different signal strengths.

[0030] Preferably, the computer is configured, in use, to sequentially transmit three or more transmission versions of the usage data.

[0031] Preferably, the computer is configured to repeatedly transmit usage data when in use.

[0032] By transmitting data more than once, the receiver is more likely to receive the completion message. If interference exists during one transmission, another transmission can be transmitted without interference. By varying settings such as frequency range, duration, and intensity, data that is affected by one set of conditions may not be affected by another set of conditions. This increases the likelihood that the receiver will receive the data. Also, by transmitting data more than once, the receiver can verify the data that was sent.

[0033] Preferably, the computer is arranged, when in use, to transmit usage data at a frequency substantially above the frequency range in which typical background noise resides.

[0034] Preferably, the computer is arranged, when in use, to transmit usage data at a frequency substantially above the audible frequency range.

[0035] In normal living and working environments, there are typical background noises. By transmitting a signal that is substantially out of the background noise, the possibility of the transmitted signal being received by the receiver increases. In addition, when transmitting data using modulated voice, the generation of transmission noise may be undesirable, so the generation of transmission noise can be prevented by transmitting frequencies that are not near the audible frequency range.

[0036] Preferably, the computer is configured to erase the usage data from the storage device after transmission.

[0037] Preferably, the computer is configured to erase the usage data from the storage device when an erasure operation is performed by the user.

[0038] Once the data has been sent, it can be erased from the storage device to make room for the next data.

[0039] Preferably, the electronic inhaler further comprises a pressure sensor connected to the computer.

[0040] Preferably, the computer is configured to transmit usage data when, in use, the pressure sensor detects operation other than normal use of the device.

[0041] Preferably, the computer is configured to transmit usage data when, in use, the pressure sensor detects that blowing into the device has occurred.

[0042] Preferably, the computer is configured to transmit usage data when, in use, the pressure sensor detects that the device is being aspirated.

[0043] Preferably, the computer is configured to transmit usage data when, in use, the pressure sensor detects that a short burst of air has been blown into the device.

[0044] Preferably, the computer is configured to transmit usage data when, in use, the pressure sensor detects that the device is sucked in short bursts.

[0045] Preferably, the computer is configured to transmit usage data when, in use, the pressure sensor detects two or more short bursts of air being blown into the device.

[0046] Preferably, the computer is configured to transmit usage data when, in use, the pressure sensor detects two or more short spurts of air being drawn on the device.

[0047] Preferably, the computer further includes a menu mode and is configured to use the pressure sensor to select a menu selection that activates the menu mode and initiates transmission of usage data.

[0048] Using a pressure sensor to control data transmission is advantageous because the pressure sensor can be an integral part of the product itself, thus eliminating the need for additional components to control transmission. Furthermore, because this control is internal, it is less susceptible to alterations that could damage the product.

[0049] Preferably, the computer is configured to erase usage data from the storage device when a user selects the erase storage device menu selection.

[0050] Preferably, the computer is configured to erase usage data from the storage device when the menu mode is exited.

[0051] Preferably, the computer is configured, in use, to audibly notify the user when the device has entered menu mode.

[0052] Preferably, the computer is configured, in use, to audibly notify the user before transmitting usage data.

[0053] Preferably, the computer is configured, during use, to audibly notify the user when usage data is being transmitted.

[0054] Preferably, the computer is configured, in use, to audibly notify the user when transmission of usage data is complete.

[0055] Preferably, the computer is configured, in use, to audibly notify the user when a transmission of usage data has been successfully received.

[0056] Preferably, the computer is configured, in use, to audibly notify the user if a transmission of usage data is not successfully received.

[0057] Preferably, the computer is configured, during use, to audibly notify the user when usage data has been erased from the computer storage device.

[0058] By notifying the user using audio, it is easy to use several different audio signals that the user can distinguish from one another. Thus, the user can easily identify when a transmission has started, ended, succeeded, or failed, and can take action accordingly. This is particularly advantageous when a pressure sensor is used to control the device, because the device is located in the user's mouth and therefore difficult for the user to see. However, when the device is in the mouth, the device is close to the user's ear, making the audio easily audible.

[0059] Preferably, the device further comprises a microphone connected to the computer.

[0060] Preferably, the computer is configured to measure background noise using a microphone and transmit usage data substantially avoiding the background noise.

[0061] Preferably, the computer is configured to begin transmitting when a start signal is received at the microphone.

[0062] Preferably, the computer is configured to terminate transmission upon receiving a termination signal at the microphone.

[0063] Preferably, the computer is configured to retransmit the usage data when a failure signal is received at the microphone.

[0064] Preferably, the computer is configured to erase the usage data from the storage device when it receives an erase signal at the microphone.

[0065] The inclusion of a microphone is advantageous because it allows feedback from the receiver to be received and allows the receiver to control the transmission, and also allows the transmission method to be implemented such that the reading is avoided by background noise and the transmission is receivable in the presence of background noise.

[0066] Preferably, the electronic inhaler comprises a mouthpiece and a tip, with the transmitter located in the tip.

[0067] Preferably, the transmitter is configured to transmit usage data external to the tip.

[0068] Preferably, the device has a central longitudinal axis and the transmitter is configured, in use, to transmit usage data substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and outwardly from the tip.

[0069] Configuring transmission according to the physical dimensions of the device allows the user to orient the device relative to the receiver in order to optimize transmission.

[0070] Preferably, the transmitter is a speaker.

[0071] As used herein, the term "electronic smoking device" includes not only electronic cigarettes but also other electronic smoking articles, such as heat-not-burn (HNB) devices or powered atomizers, which store pressurized liquid in a container with a lid and release the pressurized liquid under the control of an electronic valve in response to a pressure drop caused by the user's use of the device. These devices are collectively referred to herein as "electronic smoking devices," but the term is intended to encompass any electronic device that can be used as a cigarette replacement or smoking cessation device, and that does not require the traditional burning of tobacco. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0072] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an electronic inhaler. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 1 is an exploded side perspective view of an electronic inhaler with a separate mouthpiece and controls; FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 3 with the mouthpiece and control unit connected. [Figure 5] 1 is an exploded side perspective view of an electronic inhaler with a separate mouthpiece, vaporizer, and control unit. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 5, showing the mouthpiece, vaporizer, and control unit connected together. [Figure 7] 7 is an exploded longitudinal cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an electronic inhaler similar to the electronic inhaler of FIGS. 3-4 and 5-6, showing its internal components in greater detail. FIG. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled electronic inhaler of FIG. 7. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic circuit diagram of the electronic inhaler of FIGS. 7 and 8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0073] 1 and 2, an electronic inhalation device is shown in the form of a cigarette-type electronic cigarette, which comprises a mouthpiece 2 and a tobacco body 4. The mouthpiece 2 has an air outlet 6 at a first end and is connected to the tobacco body 4 at a second end.

[0074] The electronic cigarette includes a liquid reservoir 8 located toward the mouth end, and a vaporizer 10 equipped with a heating coil 12. The vaporizer 10 is positioned adjacent to the liquid reservoir 8 so that liquid can be transferred to the vaporizer 10 for vaporization. A circuit board 14 carries a pressure sensor 16, a transmitter 18, and a computer 20. A battery 22 provides power to the device. A control unit 24 houses the battery 22, the circuit board 14 with the pressure sensor 16, the transmitter 18, and the computer 20.

[0075] The general operation of this electronic cigarette is similar to that of known devices. When a user takes a puff from the electronic cigarette, suction is applied to the mouthpiece 2 and air outlet 6. When pressure is reduced within the electronic cigarette, power is supplied from the power battery 22 to the vaporizer 10, which vaporizes the nicotine liquid solution. The resulting vapor is then inhaled by the user.

[0076] In this embodiment, the operation of the e-cigarette is not limited to that of a typical device. In a normal mode of operation, when a user draws on the e-cigarette, an airflow is generated, causing a pressure drop within the device from atmospheric pressure to a lower pressure. Pressure sensor 16 sends a signal to computer 20. Computer 20 runs software that monitors the pressure signal from pressure sensor 16 and, upon determining that the pressure has decreased below a threshold pressure, applies current to heating coil 12 to heat it and vaporize liquid from liquid reservoir 8.

[0077] The operation of the device is controlled by software running on computer 20. Computer 20 is also capable of storing data about usage in a memory device and is further capable of transmitting this usage data.

[0078] When a user uses the device in a normal operating mode to inhale a vaporized liquid, such as nicotine vapor, the computer 20 monitors this usage and three variables are stored by the computer 20: the number of puffs, the average inhalation time, and the number of sessions.

[0079] The number of puffs is simply a count of the number of times the device is activated to vaporize the liquid solution during normal use. This count starts at zero and is incremented each time the device is activated to release vapor during an inhalation. Thus, the count is incremented each time the pressure within the device drops below the threshold pressure, thereby activating the vaporizer 10. Because this is simply a count, the computer 20 stores the number of puffs value and updates this value accordingly. Thus, only one value is stored in the computer's memory.

[0080] By definition, one byte of data is equal to eight bits of data. Using one byte of data, values ​​from 0 to 255 can be stored within it. Additionally, using two bytes of data, values ​​from 0 to 65535 can be stored within it. Therefore, the number of inhalations can be stored adequately in two bytes of data, but depending on the usage, it may also be possible to store it in one byte of data.

[0081] When a user inhales into the inhalation device to activate the device, heating coil 12 and vaporizing the liquid in liquid reservoir 8, the device operates only while the user applies inhalation. In practice, computer 20 determines when the pressure measured by pressure sensor 16 drops below a first threshold pressure value to activate vaporizer 10. When the user stops inhaling, the pressure in the device increases. When computer 20 determines when the pressure measured by pressure sensor 16 rises above a second threshold pressure value, computer 20 shuts down vaporizer 10, preventing current from flowing through vaporizer 10. The device will not activate unless the pressure drops below the first threshold pressure value, and will not shut down unless the pressure rises above the second threshold pressure value. Therefore, the first threshold pressure value is an absolute pressure lower than the second threshold pressure value. The pressure change between the first threshold pressure and atmospheric pressure is greater than the pressure change between the second threshold pressure and atmospheric pressure, which is useful to ensure that the device does not malfunction.

[0082] The time during which the computer 20 supplies current to the heating element 12 is the inhalation time. Thus, the duration of each inhalation is dependent on the time the user inhales on the device. The computer 20 can calculate and store an average inhalation time, which is representative of the average.

[0083] After the first inhalation, the number of inhalations is 1 and the average inhalation time is just the duration of the first inhalation. After the second inhalation, the number of inhalations is 2 and the average inhalation time is the sum of the duration of the first and second inhalations divided by 2. After the nth inhalation, the number of inhalations is n and the average inhalation time is the sum of all inhalations from 1 to n divided by n.

[0084] The computer 20 can update the average inhalation time every time an inhalation occurs, so that only one value needs to be stored. The computer 20 can store values ​​from 0 to 25.5 seconds in tenths of a second in one byte of data. Since an inhalation typically lasts 2 to 3 seconds, one byte of data is sufficient to store the average inhalation time.

[0085] E-cigarettes mimic smoking a real cigarette. Users typically self-regulate their nicotine intake. Thus, even though the total liquid in the liquid reservoir 8 provides significantly more nicotine than would be obtained from a single cigarette, the user does not inhale it all at once. The user may use the device in sessions, taking several successive puffs but leaving longer intervals between puffs before resuming inhalation.

[0086] When a user inhales into the device, computer 20 can measure the time that has elapsed since the previous inhalation. The computer then determines whether this time is greater than a threshold period that defines a new smoking session. Thus, if the waiting time between inhalations is greater than a predetermined new session time, the computer determines that the next inhalation begins a new session.

[0087] The computer 20 can count the number of sessions and then update this number as a single value. In one byte of data, the computer 20 can store numbers from 0 to 255. In two byte data, the computer 20 can store numbers from 0 to 65535. Therefore, the number of sessions can be stored in one byte of data or two byte data.

[0088] When computer 20 stores usage data values, these values ​​are updated to be current after every inhalation. At some point, the user may decide to access this information.

[0089] A transmitter 18 is connected to the computer 20, and the user can use this transmitter 18 to transmit usage data. To begin transmission, the user must first activate the transmitter 18. There are several ways to accomplish this activation of data transmission, but one example of activation utilizes a pressure sensor 16.

[0090] In normal operation, pressure sensor 16 is used to inhale vaporized liquid, so the device can transmit usage data if the user uses the pressure sensor in a manner other than its normal use.

[0091] When a user has finished using the device and wishes to transmit usage data, the user can do so by performing an action on the device that is different from the way the user uses the device in normal mode. In normal mode, the user typically inhales on the device for 2-3 seconds, simulating the action of smoking an actual cigarette. In this situation, computer 20 receives a signal from pressure sensor 16 and activates vaporizer 10, thereby heating heating coil 12.

[0092] To initiate transmission, the user blows briefly into the device. Pressure sensor 16 sends a signal to computer 20, which recognizes this as a signal to initiate transmission rather than normal operation. Alternatively, the user may blow briefly into the device, inhale rapidly and forcefully, or actually blow or inhale two or more times in quick succession. Each of these situations will cause pressure sensor 16 to send a signal to computer 20, which will determine this as a signal to initiate transmission rather than normal operation. When the device exits normal mode and enters the transmitting state, vaporizer 10 is disabled, allowing the user to continue to control the device using pressure sensor 16 without activating heating element 12.

[0093] The transmitter 18 may be a wireless transmitter, so that the usage data is transmitted to a corresponding receiver by wireless means. In this embodiment, the transmitter 18 is an audio generator such as a buzzer or speaker, and transmits the data by audio. The computer 20 reads the data and transmits the usage data by audio.

[0094] Because transmission is generally directional, the transmitter 18 can be mounted in a position facing outward relative to the cigarette body 4, allowing the user to determine the direction of transmission by looking at the device. In this embodiment, the transmission direction is parallel to the electronic cigarette, pointing outward from the tip. Thus, the user will find that the most efficient transmission occurs when the electronic cigarette is pointed toward the receiver.

[0095] If the transmission is audio, the corresponding receiver is a microphone. In this example, the receiver is a smartphone with a built-in microphone. The smartphone includes a computer, and a software application can be loaded onto the smartphone to configure the device as a receiver for transmissions from the e-cigarette.

[0096] During use, the e-cigarette transmits usage data as an audio signal that can be detected and recorded by a smartphone, and a computer running on the smartphone can then retrieve the data and present it visually to the user.

[0097] The usage data is transmitted by audio and therefore relies on audio being recorded by the receiving device. Therefore, background noise, which is common in most daytime environments, can interfere with the signal and prevent it from being received by the receiving device. To counter this, the audio signal is transmitted simultaneously within a frequency range outside the frequency range in which the majority of background noise resides. In another embodiment, since the modulated audio signal may not be pleasing to the user, the audio signal can be transmitted at a frequency outside the audible range, thereby making the audio signal inaudible to the user.

[0098] To enable the user to identify when the device has started transmitting, is transmitting data, and has completed transmitting data, audio signals corresponding to each of these events are communicated to the user, such as one beep to indicate start, two beeps to indicate transmission in progress, and three beeps to indicate completion.

[0099] Because the usage data is stored as only a few bytes, it can be easily and quickly transmitted using modulated audio. It is also possible that the data can be transmitted more than once during a transmission period. For example, when a user begins transmitting usage data, a first version may be transmitted prior to the end of the transmission, followed immediately by a second version. Any receiving device is configured to know how many times a signal has been transmitted. Having two versions allows different audio signals to be used to transmit the same data. For example, the second version of the audio signal could be transmitted at a different frequency, for a different duration, or with a different intensity. This provides a way to avoid background noise and ensure that the signal and data are received reliably by the receiving device.

[0100] In another embodiment, this idea is further developed by transmitting three or more versions of the data sequentially using different audio signals to maximize the probability that the receiver will receive the signal. In another embodiment, the usage data may be transmitted repeatedly until the user stops the signal. This allows the user to position the receiver and wait until the receiving device successfully receives the data.

[0101] Once the user has finished transmitting the data, they may wish to erase the data from the computer's storage device so that new data can be saved in the device's storage device. The user may do this using the pressure sensor 16. Alternatively, the computer 20 may automatically erase the storage device once it has assumed the data has been transmitted. The user is notified by an audio signal (such as four beeps) when the data has been erased from the computer's storage device.

[0102] To help the receiver identify the start and end of the transmission of the audio signal, header data indicating the start of the signal and footer data indicating the end of the signal can be added to the usage data. In this way, the receiver can identify the start and end of the signal, which is particularly useful when the usage data is transmitted more than once.

[0103] Figures 3 and 4 show a device similar to that shown in Figures 1 and 2, except that the tipping tip 2 is detachable from the cigarette body 4. The tipping tip is provided with a female thread connection means, and the cigarette body is a control part 24 with a male thread connection means. The tipping tip 2 and control part 24 can be screwed together or separated.

[0104] In this embodiment, the mouthpiece 2 includes a vaporizer 10 having a liquid reservoir 8 and a heating coil 12. The control unit 24 includes a power battery 22 and a circuit board 14 that includes a pressure sensor 16, a transmitter 18, and a computer 20. A threaded connection between the mouthpiece 2 and the control unit 24 provides an electrical connection that allows current to be applied to the heating coil 12 when the vaporizer 10 is activated.

[0105] Another difference is that control unit 24 further includes a microphone 26, which allows the device to function as both a transmitter and a receiver. In use, computer 20 can use microphone 26 to measure background noise. Thus, rather than transmitting an audio signal of usage data that avoids typical background noise, computer 20 can configure the audio signal to avoid the measured background noise.

[0106] The computer 20 can then transmit this adjusted audio signal, increasing the likelihood that the receiver will receive the signal successfully. Because the computer 20 is using measured background noise, it may be useful to add configuration data near the beginning of the audio signal in the usage data. This configuration data provides information about the frequency, duration, and strength of the signal, allowing the receiver to adjust accordingly to receive the transmission.

[0107] Additionally, microphone 26 provides a means for activating the device to transmit usage data. For example, a user can use the receiving device to send an initiation audio signal, which is picked up by microphone 26 and initiates the transmission of usage data. While the transmission is in progress, the receiving device can send an audio signal to terminate the transmission. If the receiving device does not successfully receive the usage data, the receiving device can send an audio signal to repeat the transmission of the usage data. If the receiving device successfully receives the transmission of usage data, the receiving device can send a signal to place the device in normal mode and erase the usage data from storage.

[0108] When the computer 20 confirms that the usage data has been transmitted successfully, the computer 20 notifies the user of this by voice. Similarly, when the computer 20 confirms that the usage data has not been transmitted successfully, the computer 20 also notifies the user of this by voice.

[0109] The computer 20 can exit the transmit mode when the vaporizer 10 is unscrewed from the control unit 24 .

[0110] Figures 5 and 6 show a device similar to that shown in Figures 3 and 4, except that in this embodiment the vaporizer 10 is removable from the mouthpiece 2. Also, like the device of Figures 1 and 2, the circuit board 14 does not have a microphone.

[0111] The mouthpiece 2 also has a cylindrical opening into which the vaporizer 10 is pressed, forming a tight fit. In this manner, the mouthpiece 2 can be separated from the vaporizer 10. The mouthpiece 2 includes a liquid reservoir 8. The vaporizer 10 includes a heating coil 12 and a wick 28. The wick 28 protrudes from the end of the vaporizer 10 and is immersed in the liquid reservoir 8 when the mouthpiece 2 and the control unit 10 are connected.

[0112] In use, when a user inhales on the device, liquid travels from the liquid reservoir 8 to the wick 28 and then to the heating coil 12 for vaporization.

[0113] Figures 7 and 8 show another embodiment of an electronic inhalation device in the form of an electronic cigarette. This device is similar to the embodiments shown in Figures 3 and 4 and those shown in Figures 5 and 6, but the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8 shows its internal components in greater detail. The device includes a mouthpiece 31, a vaporizer 32, and a control unit 33, which can be assembled as shown in Figure 8. This provides a generally cylindrical device that can be used as an alternative to a traditional cigarette to light a cigarette. The control unit 33 includes a threaded extension 34 that is received by internal threads 35 on the vaporizer 32. The mouthpiece 31 includes a generally cylindrical plastic case 36 into which the vaporizer 32 can be press-fit.

[0114] The mouthpiece 31 includes an outlet 37 for delivering vapor to the user's mouth, and an exhaust 38 for vapor produced by the vaporizer 32 during use. The mouthpiece 31 also includes a liquid reservoir comprised of a porous reservoir substrate 39, such as a resinous open-cell foam material, impregnated with a vaporizable liquid (such as a nicotine-containing liquid to be vaporized by the vaporizer 32 during use). This substrate 39 functions as a reservoir for the liquid, and because the mouthpiece 31 is easily removable and replaceable, it can also be used as a refill capsule when the liquid in the porous substrate 39 is used up and needs to be replenished.

[0115] Vaporizer 32 includes an electronic heating coil 40 supported on a ceramic substrate 42 and wound around a ceramic wick 41. A generally U-shaped wicking member 43 is configured to wick liquid from reservoir 39 toward heating element 40 by capillary action. Wicking member 43 may be made of a metal foam, such as nickel foam.

[0116] The heating coil 40 is supplied with power from a rechargeable battery 44 installed in the control unit 33 through electrical contacts 48, 49 (not shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, see FIG. 9). Furthermore, when the control unit 33 is attached to the vaporizer 32 by engaging the screw threads 34, 35, these contacts electrically connect the heating coil 40 to the battery 44. Power from the battery 44 is supplied to the heating coil 40 under the control of a control circuit 45 mounted on a circuit board 46 in the control unit 33. can be.

[0117] 9, control circuit 45 includes a microcontroller 47 that receives power from battery 44 through contacts 48, 49 to provide heating current to coil 40. Additionally, these contacts provide electrical connection when control unit 33 is threadedly engaged with vaporizer 32 via threads 34, 35, shown in FIG.

[0118] As will be explained in more detail below, pressure sensor 50 detects when a user uses mouthpiece 38 .

[0119] A signaling device 51 may also be provided to provide an audio or visual output to the user indicating the operating status of the device. For example, the signaling device may include a light emitting diode that glows red when the user is using the device. The signaling device may also provide a predetermined audio or visual signal to indicate, for example, that the battery 44 needs to be recharged.

[0120] The current supply from the battery 44 to the microcontroller is controlled by a switching transistor 52 .

[0121] When a user draws vapor through outlet 37 using mouthpiece 1, pressure sensor 50 detects a pressure drop that travels from within vaporizer 32 through the interior of control unit 33 to circuit board 45. Microcontroller 47 responds to the pressure drop detected by sensor 50 by supplying current to heating coil 40, thereby vaporizing the liquid drawn up through U-shaped wick 43 by capillary action. Air inlet passage 55 is provided at the connection between vaporizer 32 and control unit 33 and allows air to be drawn into vaporizer 32 in the direction of arrow A through threaded extension 34 of control unit 33. The resulting vapor is then drawn through outlet passage 38 to outlet 37 in the direction of arrow B.

[0122] Because the operation of the device of Figures 7 and 8 may be the same as that of any of the devices of Figures 1-6 described above, a detailed description of such operation will not be repeated here. However, it is contemplated that circuit board 46 in the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8 may be configured like circuit board 14 in the embodiment of Figures 1-6, and that circuit board 14 in the embodiment of Figures 1-6 may be configured like circuit board 46 in the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8. Specifically, circuit board 46 may include transmitter 18 configured and operative as described above for the embodiment shown in Figures 1-6. As such, the device may be capable of transmitting usage data and further operating and / or operating the device as described above. Additionally, pressure sensor 50 may be located on circuit board 46 within controller 33 to fluidly connect vaporizer 32 to an area within controller 33, e.g., via an open passage (not shown), allowing a pressure sensor mounted on circuit board 46 within controller 33 to detect a pressure drop within vaporizer 32.

[0123] In addition to the above, the microcontroller 47 of the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8 may be programmed like the computer 20 of the embodiment of Figures 1 to 6 to monitor the pressure measurements from the pressure sensor 16 and control the device accordingly as described above, but in particular to execute software to control the operation of the device (such as monitoring device usage and monitoring and calculating usage variables as described above).

[0124] The circuit board 46 may further include a microphone 26 as in the embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4 above, so that the device acts as both a transmitter and a receiver and functions as detailed above for that embodiment.

[0125] While an embodiment has been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the present invention. The computer processing unit may be a microprocessor or microcontroller. Furthermore, the device is not limited to a cigarette type. The computer processing unit, transmitter, and pressure sensor are not limited to being mounted on the same circuit board. The vaporization heating coil may be replaced by another type of non-coil heating element. The transmitter may be controlled by a button or switch or some other means rather than a pressure sensor or microphone. More information may be stored in the usage data, such as details about each puff, including date, time, and duration.

[0126] To address various problems and promote the present technology, this entire disclosure presents various exemplary embodiments in which one or more of the claimed inventions are practiced to provide an improved electronic inhaler. The advantages and features of the present disclosure are merely representative examples of implementations and are not intended to be limiting. They are presented solely to aid in understanding and teach the claimed features. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects of the present disclosure do not limit the present disclosure or its equivalents as defined in the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilized and modified without departing from the scope and / or concept of the present disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. Furthermore, the present disclosure includes other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future. Any feature of any embodiment may be used separately or in combination with any other feature.

Claims

1. 1. An electronic inhalation device comprising a mouthpiece and a control unit, the control unit comprising a battery for power supply and a computer, the computer comprising a computer processing unit, a memory and an input / output means, the device further comprising a transmitter connected to the computer, the computer configured, during use, to collect usage data relating to a user's use of the device and store it in the computer memory and to transmit the usage data, the transmitter configured to transmit the usage data by wireless means, and the computer configured to sequentially transmit a first transmitted version and a second transmitted version of the usage data.

2. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the electronic inhaler is an electronic cigarette.

3. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the computer is a microcontroller.

4. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the usage data includes the number of inhalations, the number of inhalations being a count of the number of inhalations a user has taken when using the device.

5. 5. The electronic inhaler of claim 4, wherein said usage data includes an average inhalation time, said average inhalation time being an average representative value for each of said inhalations counted by said number of inhalations.

6. 6. The electronic inhaler of claim 4, wherein the usage data includes a number of uses, the number of uses being a count of the number of times each inhalation period has occurred.

7. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the usage data further includes header data at the beginning of the usage data that indicates the start of the usage data.

8. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the usage data further includes footer data at the end of the usage data indicating the end of the usage data.

9. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the first transmission version is substantially identical to the second transmission version.

10. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the first and second transmission versions are in different frequency ranges.

11. 11. An electronic inhaler as claimed in claim 1 or 10, wherein the first transmitted version and the second transmitted version are of different durations.

12. 11. The electronic inhaler of claim 1 or 10, wherein the first transmitted version and the second transmitted version have different signal strengths.

13. 10. The electronic inhalation device of claim 1, wherein the computer is configured, in use, to sequentially transmit three or more transmission versions of the usage data.

14. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the computer is configured to repeatedly transmit the usage data during use.

15. 2. The electronic inhaler of claim 1, wherein the computer is configured, in use, to transmit the usage data at a frequency substantially above the frequency range in which typical background noise resides.

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