Indoor airflow indicator of exhaled constituents

Abstract

A method or system for indicating an exhalation direction for a user who inhales into an aerosol generating device and then exhales. The method may include, or the system may be configured to determine an air pattern proximate to, the aerosol generating device, and to indicate an exhalation direction based on the air pattern.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to airflow mapping of a smokeless device. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating device including an airflow indicator. [Background technology]

[0002] Airflow in a home or public space can be adapted by smart fans, air purifiers, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to maintain user comfort. The indoor airflow provided by such equipment and systems can be modeled to improve comfort for occupants and to predict the movement of airborne particles. In addition, airflow within a home or public space may be monitored, predicted, and adjusted to control the flow of airborne particles.

[0003] A home or public space may be mapped using Bluetooth, WiFi, Lidar, imaging, or other positioning systems or sensors. Such positioning systems may also be used to control smart devices such as fans, thermostats, HVAC systems, vacuums, or other smart devices.

[0004] The components exhaled from the aerosol generating device may circulate indoors. The exhaled components may have an aroma associated with use of the aerosol generating device. The aroma associated with use of the aerosol generating device may be perceived by the user of the aerosol generating device and others in the vicinity of the user. The user of the aerosol generating device, and individuals other than the user of the aerosol generating device, may wish to control how the exhaled components travel within the enclosed environment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for indicating an exhalation direction for a user inhaling and then exhaling into an aerosol generating device, the method including determining an air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device and indicating an exhalation direction based on the air pattern.

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a receptacle, an aerosol generating arrangement, control electronics and an airflow sensor. The receptacle is configured to receive an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating arrangement is configured to generate an aerosol in the aerosol generating article for inhalation by a user. The control electronics is operatively coupled to the aerosol generating arrangement. The airflow sensor is configured to detect one or more parameters of airflow external to the aerosol generating device. The control electronics is operatively coupled to the airflow sensor.

[0007] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a receptacle, an aerosol generating arrangement, control electronics and an output indicator. The receptacle is configured to receive an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating arrangement is configured to cause the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user. The control electronics is operatively coupled to the aerosol generating arrangement. The control electronics is configured to cause the output indicator to indicate a direction in which a user should exhale after inhaling the aerosol generating device.

[0008] According to an aspect of the invention, a system is provided that includes an air pattern detection subsystem, an exhalation direction determination subsystem, and an output indicator subsystem. The air pattern detection subsystem is configured to detect a parameter associated with an air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device. The exhalation direction determination subsystem is configured to determine a direction in which a user should exhale after inhaling the aerosol generating device based on the detected parameter associated with the air pattern. The output indicator subsystem is configured to provide a user with an indication of the determined direction in which the user should exhale. The occupied direction may be based on a desired outcome. The desired outcome may include having a high concentration of exhaled constituents in a particular location, may include having a low concentration of exhaled constituents in a particular location, or may include having a uniform distribution of exhaled constituents in a particular location or throughout a space.

[0009] The methods, systems, and equipment of the present invention may evaluate the location and characteristics of the local air pattern. As a result, the methods, systems, and equipment may suggest to a user of the aerosol generating device an exhalation direction based on the location and characteristics of the local air pattern to move the exhaled components in a desired manner. A desired outcome regarding the movement (or lack of movement) of the exhaled components may be specified by the user. Information and information regarding the location and characteristics of the local air pattern may be communicated to the user. The user may select a desired outcome based on the communicated information. The user may select a desired outcome that is, for example, most beneficial to the user, or most beneficial to another individual, or more beneficial to the user and other individuals in the user's vicinity.

[0010] The methods, systems, and equipment may be used at home, or in public indoor spaces, or both at home and in public indoor spaces. The methods, systems, and equipment of the present disclosure may provide greater control of exhaled components, allowing for less contentious use of the aerosol generating device. Greater control of exhaled components may alter the perception of the exhaled components by other individuals in the vicinity of the aerosol generating device. For example, greater control of exhaled components may reduce, prevent, or enhance the noticeability of the scent or aroma of the exhaled components.

[0011] Determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device may include determining a direction of airflow proximate to the aerosol generating device. The direction of airflow may be determined in two-dimensional space or three-dimensional space. Directions in two-dimensional space may include cardinal directions, angles from a reference point, two-dimensional Cartesian coordinates, or other directions on a two-dimensional plane. Directions in three-dimensional space may include any two-dimensional direction having an additional component perpendicular to the two-dimensional plane.

[0012] Determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device may include determining an air flow speed proximate to the aerosol-generating device.

[0013] Determining the air patterns proximate to the aerosol-generating device may include determining airflow turbulence proximate to the aerosol-generating device. Turbulence is fluid motion characterized by chaotic changes in pressure and flow velocity. Airflow turbulence may be determined based on changes in airflow velocity over a given distance or across an area. Airflow turbulence may also be quantified by eddy dissipation ratio (EDR). EDR is expressed in meters per square cubic second (m 2 / s 3 ) The EDR can vary from 0 to 1. An EDR of 0 indicates uniform or non-turbulent flow, and an EDR of 1 indicates extremely turbulent flow.

[0014] Determining one or more of airflow direction, airflow speed, and airflow turbulence proximate the aerosol generating device may include collecting data from an airflow sensor.

[0015] Proximity may refer to a distance from a reference object, e.g., an aerosol-generating device, when such reference object is in fluid communication with the reference object at such distance. For example, proximity to an aerosol-generating device may refer to a distance or radius from the aerosol-generating device. The distance or radius may be about 5 meters to about 10 meters. However, when the reference object is separated from the reference object such that the reference object is not in fluid communication with the aerosol-generating device, such a reference object is not in proximity to the aerosol-generating device for purposes of this disclosure, regardless of distance. For example, an air pattern that is within 5 meters of an aerosol-generating device, but separated by a wall or otherwise not in fluid communication with the aerosol-generating device, may not be considered to be in proximity to the aerosol-generating device. However, an air pattern in the same room as the aerosol-generating device and within 5 meters of the aerosol-generating device may be considered to be in proximity to the aerosol-generating device.

[0016] The aerosol generating device may include an airflow sensor. The airflow sensor may sense the flow of air or gas, such as the amount of air or gas, the direction of the air or gas, etc. At least a portion of the airflow sensor may be disposed on the surface of the aerosol generating device to sense the airflow around the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may include multiple airflow sensors, each disposed at a different location on the aerosol generating device.

[0017] The airflow sensor may be remote from the aerosol generating device. In other words, the airflow sensor may be a stand-alone device or may be integrated into another device, such as, for example, a smart fan, an HVAC system, an air purifier, or other smart device. The two or more airflow sensors may be remote from the aerosol generating device. The airflow sensor may be configured to sense airflow and transmit data to the aerosol generating device or to a system including an air pattern detection subsystem. The data may be transmitted using a wired or wireless connection or protocol. The wireless connection may include, for example, WiFi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), or other wireless communication protocols. The airflow sensor remote from the aerosol generating device may sense airflow throughout a building, room, or area, such as air patterns proximate to the aerosol generating device.

[0018] Determining one or more of the airflow direction, airflow speed, and airflow turbulence proximate the aerosol-generating device may include processing data from a ventilation device. The ventilation device may be a component of an HVAC system. Data from such a system may include airflow rate, fan speed, inlet and output locations within a space or building, or other system data. Such data may be used in conjunction with or instead of airflow sensor data.

[0019] Determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device may include mapping an aspect of the air pattern onto a three-dimensional representation of the space proximate to the aerosol-generating article. The aspect of the air pattern may include, for example, air velocity, air volume, air velocity, air direction, air gradient, or other air flow parameters. One or more aspects of the air pattern may be assigned to each of a set of points or coordinates within the three-dimensional representation of the space. Alternatively, determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device may include mapping an aspect of the air pattern onto a two-dimensional representation of the space. The three-dimensional or two-dimensional representation may be a simulation. Such a representation may be graphically rendered. The graphically rendered representation may be presented to a user of the aerosol-generating device.

[0020] The method may further include mapping the three-dimensional space proximate the aerosol-generating article to generate a three-dimensional representation of the space. The three-dimensional space may be mapped using, for example, Global Positioning System (GPS), radio reflection, time of flight, computer vision techniques, lidar, imaging, acoustic sensors, mapping information from smart devices, or other location or scanning techniques. Such mapping may include locations of walls, doorways, windows, ventilation locations, air inlets, air outputs, location data, objects, furniture, equipment, people, or other physical objects. The three-dimensional representation of the space may include a map of the three-dimensional space.

[0021] The method may further include locating the aerosol-generating device in a map of the three-dimensional space. The location of the aerosol-generating device may be determined based on a GPS device disposed in the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating device may be located on the aerosol-generating device (or in a device remote from the aerosol-generating device) that is connected to or in communication with the aerosol-generating device. Such a device remote from the aerosol-generating device may include, for example, a smartphone, a wearable, a mobile computer, a tablet, or other mobile computing device. Such a device may communicate with the aerosol-generating device via a wired connection or wireless protocol.

[0022] The method may further include locating the individual within the map of the three-dimensional space. The individual may be a person, animal, plant, or organism other than the user of the aerosol generating device. The determination that such an individual is located within the map of the three-dimensional space may be based on the individual's distance from the aerosol generating device. The individual or location may be identified using, for example, GPS, radio reflection, time of flight, computer vision techniques, lidar, imaging, acoustic sensors, mapping information from a smart device, or other location or scanning techniques.

[0023] Indicating an exhalation direction may include indicating a threshold direction likely to result in a concentration of the exhaled component in the air near the individual falling below a threshold. The threshold direction may be a direction or range that will result in the exhaled component dissipating or moving such that the concentration of the exhaled component reaching the area at or around the individual is below a specified concentration.

[0024] Indicating the exhalation direction may include indicating a minimum direction likely to result in a minimum concentration of the exhaled aerosol component in the air near the individual. The minimum direction may be a direction that results in the lowest concentration of the exhaled component reaching an area at or around the individual. The minimum direction may be determined using modeling, simulation, or analysis. Such a minimum may not be an absolute minimum, but an approximation based on a limited number of iterations.

[0025] The method may further include evaluating a predetermined target for exhaled constituents at a location in the mapped three-dimensional space. The predetermined target may be evaluated based on the location of the location. Locations such as designated smoking areas, outdoor spaces, ventilated spaces, or other smoking-friendly locations may be evaluated as having a high threshold target for exhaled aerosol constituents. Locations such as stores, restaurants, designated non-smoking areas, locations with little or no airflow, or other locations where exhaled constituents may be perceived as undesirable may be designated as having a low threshold target.

[0026] Indicating the exhalation direction may include indicating a threshold direction that is likely to result in a concentration of the exhaled aerosol component in the air near the location falling below the threshold if the location is assessed to have a low threshold target. The threshold direction may be determined using modeling, simulation, or analysis. The threshold may be a value that reduces the likelihood that the exhaled component will be perceived by individuals in the space.

[0027] Indicating the exhalation direction may include indicating a minimum direction likely to result in a minimum concentration of the exhaled constituent in the air near the location if the location is assessed to have a low threshold target. The minimum direction may be a direction that results in the lowest concentration of the exhaled constituent reaching the area at or around the location. The minimum direction may be determined using modeling, simulation, or analysis. Such a minimum may not be an absolute minimum, but an approximation based on a limited number of iterations.

[0028] Determining the air pattern may include determining a concentration of an aerosol component in air proximate to the aerosol generating device. Determining the concentration of the aerosol component may include collecting data from an electrochemical sensor. The aerosol generating device may include an electrochemical sensor. Alternatively, the electrochemical sensor may be remote from the aerosol generating device. The electrochemical may be configured to detect one or more exhaled components. The detected components are preferably components specific to use of the aerosol generating device. For example, the electrochemical sensor may detect nicotine, nicotine metabolites, scented aroma molecules associated with use of the aerosol generating device, or the like.

[0029] Determining the concentration of the aerosol constituent in the air proximate to the aerosol-generating device may include processing data relating to a number of additional aerosol-generating articles in use proximate to the aerosol-generating device, Determining that such additional aerosol-generating articles are in use may be based on wireless communication with the additional aerosol-generating articles, imaging, user input, or other device detection methods.

[0030] Determining the concentration of the exhaled constituents in the air proximate to the aerosol-generating device may include processing data related to the air exchange rate of the air proximate to the aerosol-generating article. The air exchange rate may be indicative of the time it takes for existing exhaled constituents proximate to the aerosol-generating device to move out of such space. In other words, the air exchange rate may be indicative of the time it takes for the exhaled constituents to disperse from the area around the aerosol-generating device.

[0031] Indicating an exhalation direction may include indicating a threshold direction that is likely to result in a concentration of the exhaled constituent near the aerosol generating device exceeding a threshold. Such a threshold direction may be desirable, for example, if a user of the aerosol generating device prefers that aromas associated with the exhaled constituent accumulate near the user. Such a threshold direction may be desirable to cause an increase in the concentration of the exhaled constituent in a particular location, for example, in proximity to a filtration device or in proximity to a smoking room.

[0032] Indicating the direction of exhalation may include indicating a maximum direction likely to result in a maximum concentration of an exhaled aerosol component near the aerosol generating device. The maximum direction may be a direction that results in a maximum concentration of an exhaled component around the aerosol generating device or a user. The maximum direction may be determined using modeling, simulation, or analysis. Such a maximum may not be an absolute maximum, but an approximation based on a limited number of iterations.

[0033] Indicating the exhalation direction may include displaying a directional indicator on the aerosol generating device. The directional indicator may be a visual indicator, an audible indicator, or a tactile indicator. The visual indicator may include a light or display capable of indicating the direction. For example, LEDs may be disposed at various points on the aerosol generating device that may light up, flash, flash briefly, or blink to indicate the exhalation direction. The display may be included in a smartphone, computing device, or wearable. Such a display may display a symbol or text indicating the exhalation direction to the user. The auditory indicator may be provided to the user using a speaker or other acoustic transducer. Such an acoustic transducer may be incorporated into the aerosol generating device, smartphone, wearable device, Bluetooth speaker, computing device, or other electronic device. The auditory indicator may be a verbal command, such as, for example, "exhale left," "exhale right," "exhale toward the door," "exhale away from the fan," "exhale north," or other verbal command. The tactile indicator may be haptic feedback, a tap, a bang, a vibration, or other indicator designed to be perceived by touch. The tactile indicator may be provided by a haptic motor, a vibration motor, or other device configured to communicate a signal to the user via the user's sense of touch.

[0034] The method may further include providing instructions to modify an air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device. Such instructions may be provided to a user, a fan, an air cleaning unit, an HVAC system, a smart device, or other device configured to provide an airflow. The instructions to modify the air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device may include, for example, modifying a fan setting, modifying an HVAC setting, modifying an air cleaning unit setting, opening or closing a window, opening or closing a door, or other actions that may modify the airflow. Such instructions may modify the airflow and air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device to direct exhaled aerosol components in a desired direction.

[0035] The methods described herein may be performed by an aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the methods described herein may be performed by a system. The system may comprise an aerosol generating device.

[0036] The aerosol generating device may include an output indicator. The control electronics may be configured to cause the output indicator to indicate, based on the air pattern, the direction in which the user should exhale after inhaling on the aerosol generating device. The output indicator may include one or more lights configured to emit light to indicate the direction in which the user should exhale. The one or more lights may blink to indicate the direction in which the user should face to exhale. The one or more lights may emit light without blinking to indicate the direction in which the user should face to exhale. The output indicator may include one or more speakers configured to provide an audible indication of the direction in which the user should exhale. The audible indication may include an audible word, a beep, a high-pitched tone, or other sound.

[0037] The aerosol generating device may include a receiver operably coupled to the control electronics. The receiver may be configured to receive data related to one or more parameters related to air patterns outside the aerosol generating device and proximate to the aerosol generating device. The receiver may be configured to receive the data using a wireless protocol, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, or other wireless protocol. The receiver may provide the received data to the control electronics. The receiver may receive data from the aerosol generating device, an HVAC system, a fan, a thermostat, a vacuum, or other smart device. The control electronics may be configured to cause an output indicator to indicate a direction in which a user should exhale based on the data related to the one or more airflow parameters.

[0038] The air pattern detection subsystem may comprise an airflow sensor. The air pattern detection subsystem may comprise a mapping facility configured to map a three dimensional space proximate to the aerosol generating device. The mapping facility may be configured to identify a location of the aerosol generating device within the mapped three dimensional space. The mapping facility may be configured to identify a location of an individual within the mapped three dimensional space. The mapping facility may be configured to identify a location of a low threshold target area and a high threshold target area within the mapped three dimensional space.

[0039] The air pattern detection subsystem may include a mapping facility configured to map a two-dimensional space proximate the aerosol-generating device. The mapping facility may be configured to identify a location of the aerosol-generating device within the mapped two-dimensional space. The mapping facility may be configured to identify a location of an individual within the mapped two-dimensional space. The mapping facility may be configured to identify a location of a low-threshold target area and a high-threshold target area within the mapped two-dimensional space.

[0040] The exhalation determination subsystem may be configured to receive input related to a desired flow of the exhaled constituents within the mapped three-dimensional space. The exhalation determination subsystem may comprise a display configured to graphically render the mapped three-dimensional space. The exhalation determination subsystem may be configured to receive input based on the graphically rendered mapped three-dimensional space. The graphical rendering of the mapped three-dimensional space may include augmented reality or virtual reality. Indicators are superimposed on the rendering of the mapped three-dimensional space to indicate one or more of an exhalation direction, a predetermined target, a location of one or more aerosol generating devices, an estimated aerosol constituent concentration, an airflow source, an airflow pattern, other indicia mapped into the space, and the like.

[0041] The exhalation determination subsystem may be configured to receive input related to a desired flow of exhaled aerosol constituents within the mapped two-dimensional space. The exhalation determination subsystem may comprise a display configured to graphically render the mapped two-dimensional space. The exhalation determination subsystem may be configured to receive input based on the graphically rendered mapped two-dimensional space. The graphical rendering of the mapped two-dimensional space may include a top-down view of the space. Indicators are superimposed on the rendering of the mapped two-dimensional space to indicate one or more of an exhalation direction, a predetermined target, a location of one or more aerosol generating devices, an estimated aerosol constituent concentration, an airflow source, an airflow pattern, other indicia mapped into the space, and the like.

[0042] The aerosol generating device may include one or more components of an air pattern detection subsystem, a delivery direction determination subsystem, and an output indicator subsystem. The aerosol generating device may include control electronics that include one or more of the air pattern detection subsystem, the delivery direction determination subsystem, or the output indicator subsystem. The aerosol generating device may include one or more lights contained within the output indicator subsystem.

[0043] The air pattern detection subsystem may comprise a plurality of aerosol generating devices. Each of the plurality of aerosol generating devices may comprise a receptacle, an aerosol generating facility, control electronics, and an airflow sensor. The receptacle may be configured to receive an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating facility may be configured to generate an aerosol in the aerosol generating article for inhalation by a user. The control electronics may be operatively coupled to the aerosol generating facility. The airflow sensor may be configured to detect one or more parameters of airflow external to the aerosol generating device.

[0044] The control electronics of each of the plurality of aerosol generating circuits may be configured to exchange environmental data with each other. The control electronics may include a transceiver for transmitting and receiving data via a wireless protocol. The wireless protocol may include, for example, Bluetooth, WiFi, Near Field Communication (NFC), or other wireless protocols. The environmental data may include location data of the plurality of aerosol generating devices. The location data may be used by mapping equipment to identify the location of each of the aerosol generating devices. The location data may include GPS coordinates or distances of the aerosol generating devices relative to known locations or objects. The environmental data may include one or more parameters of airflow. Each of the aerosol generating devices may determine airflow patterns in its vicinity and may transmit such data to the other aerosol generating devices.

[0045] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" also include embodiments having plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0046] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may offer certain advantages, under particular circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims.

[0047] As used herein, an "aerosol generating device" is a device that generates an aerosol that may be inhaled by a user or that delivers particles to the lungs of a user when the user inhales on the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may be a device that heats, but does not burn, an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate. The aerosol generating device may comprise a device that heats, vaporizes, or atomizes a liquid to cause aerosol formation. The liquid may comprise nicotine. The aerosol generating device may comprise a powder inhaler (such as a dry powder inhaler) configured to deliver particles to a user. The particles may comprise nicotine. The particles may be sized and the device configured such that the particles are delivered to the lungs of a user when the user inhales on the aerosol generating device.

[0048] As used herein, the term "inhaling," in the context of an aerosol-generating device, is the act of inhaling or puffing the aerosol generated by the device. Inhaling an aerosol-generating device may include inhaling through the mouthpiece end of the aerosol-generating device or through the mouthpiece end of an aerosol-generating article received within the aerosol-generating device.

[0049] As used herein, "exhaled components" are those components exhaled by a user after inhaling an aerosol generating device.

[0050] "Air patterns" as used herein are information relating to characteristics and parameters of air within different locations of an environment that may be defined by a region. Air patterns may include information about air velocity, air flow vectors, air flow gradients, or other air flow data within a region. Air patterns within a region or adjacent to something may include one or more air flows or one or more stagnant air pockets. Air patterns may be mapped and provided to a user. Air patterns may be indoor air patterns. Indoor air patterns may exclude outdoor air pattern factors such as wind direction and wind speed.

[0051] "Mapping" as used herein is the process of associating data with a space or region. Such data may be associated or mapped in two-dimensional or three-dimensional space. The data may include the location of objects, walls, devices, systems, doorways, windows, or other physical features in the space. The data may also include air patterns, exhaled constituent concentrations, predetermined targets, or other data. For example, air patterns may be mapped in three-dimensional space by assigning vectors to points in the three-dimensional space. The mapped air patterns may show, for example, the direction and speed of airflow at each point. Such maps may illustrate airflow gradients, areas with little or no airflow, and areas with high airflow.

[0052] As used herein, a "proximity" is an area or volume near or surrounding and in fluid communication with an individual, object, or place. A neighborhood may be a two-dimensional or three-dimensional region defined by a radius that encompasses the individual, object, or place. The radius may be at least two feet and may be no greater than six feet. A two-dimensional or three-dimensional region may be further defined by walls, doors, or other barriers that, for example, prevent the area within the radius from being in fluid communication with the individual, object, or place.

[0053] As used herein, a "threshold direction" is an exhalation direction that is likely to result in an exhaled constituent concentration below a threshold concentration at a particular location. For example, a threshold direction may indicate that the exhalation direction is likely to result in a concentration of an exhaled constituent in the air near an individual other than the user that is below a threshold.

[0054] As used herein, a "minimum direction" is an ejection direction that modeling, simulation, or analysis indicates is likely to result in the lowest concentration of an exhaled component at a particular location, as compared to other directions. The minimum may be an approximation based on a limited number of iterations, and may not necessarily be an absolute minimum.

[0055] As used herein, a "maximum direction" is an ejection direction that modeling, simulation, or analysis indicates is likely to result in the highest concentration of an exhaled component at a particular location, as compared to other directions. The maximum may be an approximation based on a limited number of iterations, and may not necessarily be an absolute maximum.

[0056] As used herein, a "predetermined target" is a target concentration of an exhaled constituent at a target location based on information related to that location. For example, a target location may be evaluated as a high or low threshold target based on whether the space is a designated smoking or non-smoking area, a restaurant, a ventilated space, an outdoor space, or other information about the space.

[0057] As used herein, "air exchange rate" is the time it takes for an exhaled component to be removed from an area without having additional exhaled component added to the space.

[0058] A "directional indicator," as used herein, is an alert or communication that can be provided to a user that includes directional information. A directional indicator may include lights, audible instructions, an image on a graphical user interface, or other alerts. An alert may be provided by an aerosol generating device, a mobile device, a smart device such as a smart watch, a speaker, a wearable, or other device that has the capability to emit light, generate an image, or generate sound.

[0059] As used herein, "likely" means that there is at least a 60 percent chance that something will occur.

[0060] As used herein, "augmented reality" is an interactive experience of a real-world environment in which real-world objects are augmented with computer-generated sensory information, which may include multiple sensory modalities, such as visual, auditory, tactile, somatosensory, or olfactory.

[0061] As used herein, "virtual reality" is a computer-generated simulation in which a person can interact with an artificial three-dimensional environment using electronic devices.

[0062] The following non-limiting examples are provided in a non-exhaustive list, any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of any other examples, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

[0063] Example 1: A method for indicating an exhalation direction for a user who inhales and then exhales into an aerosol generating device, the method comprising: determining an air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device; and indicating an exhalation direction based on the air pattern. Example 2 The method of example 1, wherein determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device comprises determining a direction of airflow proximate to the aerosol-generating device. Example 3 The method of any one of Examples 1-2, wherein determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device comprises determining an air flow speed proximate to the aerosol-generating device. Example 4 The method of any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device comprises determining airflow turbulence proximate to the aerosol-generating device. Example 5. A method as described in any one of Examples 2 to 4, wherein determining one or more of airflow direction, airflow speed, and airflow turbulence adjacent to the aerosol generating device includes collecting data from an airflow sensor. Example 6 The method of example 5, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises an airflow sensor. Example 7 The method of example 5, wherein the airflow sensor is remote from the aerosol generating device. Example 8. A method as described in any one of Examples 2 to 7, wherein determining one or more of the airflow direction, airflow speed, and airflow turbulence adjacent to the aerosol generating device includes processing data from a ventilation system. Example 9. The method of Example 8, wherein determining one or more of airflow direction, airflow speed, and airflow turbulence adjacent to the aerosol generating device includes processing data from a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. Example 10. A method according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device comprises mapping one aspect of the air pattern onto a three-dimensional representation of the space proximate to the aerosol generating article. Example 11. The method of example 10, further comprising mapping a three-dimensional space proximate the aerosol-generating article to generate a three-dimensional representation of the space. Example 12 The method of example 10 or example 11, further comprising determining the location of the aerosol generating device within a map of the three-dimensional space. Example 13. The method of any one of Examples 10-12, further comprising locating the individual within the map of three-dimensional space. Example 14. The method of example 13, wherein indicating the exhalation direction includes indicating a threshold direction that is more likely to result in a concentration of the exhaled component in air near the individual falling below a threshold. Example 15. The method of example 13 or example 14, wherein indicating the direction of exhalation includes indicating a minimum direction likely to result in a minimum concentration of the exhaled component in the air near the individual. Example 16. A method according to any one of Examples 10 to 15, comprising evaluating a predetermined target of the exhaled components at a location within the mapped three-dimensional space. Example 17. The method of Example 16, wherein indicating the exhalation direction includes indicating a threshold direction that is likely to result in a concentration of the exhaled component in the air near the location falling below the threshold if the location is evaluated to be a low threshold target. Example 18. The method of any one of Examples 16-17, wherein indicating the exhalation direction includes indicating a minimum direction likely to result in a minimum concentration of the exhaled component in the air near the location if the location is evaluated to be a high threshold target. Example 19. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein indicating the ejection direction includes providing a user with an indication of a cardinal direction, a sequential direction, or a direction between the cardinal directions. Example 20. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein indicating the ejection direction includes instructing a user to perform a sweep and providing an indication to the user when the aerosol generating device is oriented in the ejection direction. Example 21 The method of any one of Examples 1 to 20, wherein determining the air pattern comprises determining a concentration of the exhaled component in air proximate to the aerosol generating device. Example 22. The method of example 21, wherein determining the concentration of the exhaled constituent comprises collecting data from an electrochemical sensor. Example 23 The method of example 22, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises an electrochemical sensor. Example 24 The method of example 22, wherein the electrochemical sensor is remote from the aerosol generating device. Example 25. A method according to any one of Examples 21 to 24, wherein determining the concentration of exhaled components in the air adjacent to the aerosol generating device includes processing data relating to the number of additional aerosol generating articles in use adjacent to the aerosol generating article. Example 26. A method according to any one of Examples 21 to 25, wherein determining the concentration of the exhaled component in the air adjacent to the aerosol generating device includes processing data relating to the ventilation rate of the air adjacent to the aerosol generating item. Example 27. A method as described in any one of Examples 1 to 26, wherein indicating an exhalation direction includes indicating a threshold direction that is likely to result in a concentration of the exhaled component near the aerosol generating device exceeding a threshold. Example 28. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 27, wherein indicating the exhalation direction comprises indicating a maximum direction likely to result in a maximum concentration of the exhaled component proximate the aerosol generating device. Example 29. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 28, wherein indicating the direction of exhalation comprises displaying a directional indicator on the aerosol generating device. Example 30. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 29, further comprising providing instructions to modify air patterns proximate to the aerosol generating device. Example 31. A method according to any one of Examples 1 to 30, wherein determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol generating device includes processing data received from a plurality of additional aerosol generating articles in use proximate to the aerosol generating article. Example 32. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 31, carried out by an aerosol generating device. Example 33 An aerosol generating device configured to carry out the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 31. Example 34 A system configured to carry out the method of any one of Examples 1 to 31. Example 35. The system of Example 34, comprising an aerosol generating device. Example 36. An aerosol generating device comprising a receptacle configured to receive an aerosol generating article, an aerosol generating equipment configured to generate an aerosol in the aerosol generating article for inhalation by a user, control electronics operably connected to the aerosol generating equipment, and an airflow sensor configured to detect one or more parameters of airflow outside the aerosol generating device, wherein the control electronics is operably connected to the airflow sensor. Example 37: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 36, further comprising an output indicator, the control electronics being configured to cause the output indicator to indicate the direction in which the user should exhale after inhaling into the aerosol generating device based on one or more detected airflow parameters. Example 38 An aerosol generating device comprising: an aerosol generating device comprising a receptacle configured to receive an aerosol generating article, an aerosol generating arrangement configured to cause the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user, control electronics operably coupled to the aerosol generating arrangement, and an output indicator; An aerosol generating device, wherein the control electronics are configured to cause the output indicator to indicate a direction in which a user should exhale after inhaling into the aerosol generating device. Example 39 An aerosol generating device as described in Example 38, further comprising a receiver operably linked to the control electronics, the receiver configured to receive data relating to one or more parameters relating to the airflow outside the aerosol generating device and in proximity to the aerosol generating device. Example 40. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 39, wherein the control electronics is configured to cause the output indicator to indicate the direction in which the user should exhale based on data relating to one or more airflow parameters. Example 41 A system comprising an air pattern detection subsystem configured to detect a parameter related to an air pattern proximate to an aerosol generating device, an exhalation direction determination subsystem configured to determine a direction in which a user should exhale after inhaling into the aerosol generating device based on the detected parameter related to the air pattern, and an output indicator subsystem configured to provide a user with an indication of the determined direction in which the user should exhale. Example 42. The system of example 41, wherein the air pattern detection subsystem comprises an airflow sensor. Example 43. A system described in example 41 or example 42, wherein the air pattern detection subsystem includes a mapping facility configured to map a three-dimensional space proximate to the aerosol generating device. Example 44. The system of Example 43, wherein the mapping equipment is configured to identify the location of the aerosol generating device within the mapped three-dimensional space. Example 45. The system of Example 44, wherein the mapping facility is configured to identify the location of the individual within the mapped three-dimensional space. Example 46. A system described in any one of Examples 43 to 45, wherein the exhalation determination subsystem is configured to receive an input related to a desired flow of exhaled aerosol components within the mapped three-dimensional space. Example 47. The system of Example 46, wherein the ejection determination subsystem comprises a display configured to graphically render the mapped three-dimensional space. Example 48. The system of Example 47, wherein the ejection decision subsystem is configured to receive input based on a graphically rendered mapped three-dimensional space. Example 49. The system of any one of Examples 41 to 48, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises one or more components of an air pattern detection subsystem, an ejection direction determination subsystem, and an output indicator subsystem. Example 50 A system described in any one of Examples 41 to 49, wherein the air pattern detection subsystem further comprises a plurality of aerosol generating devices, each of the plurality of aerosol generating devices comprising a receptacle configured to receive an aerosol generating article, an aerosol generating equipment configured to generate an aerosol in the aerosol generating article for inhalation by a user, control electronics operably coupled to the aerosol generating equipment, and an airflow sensor configured to detect one or more parameters of the airflow outside the aerosol generating device. Example 51. A system as described in Example 50, wherein the control electronics of each of the multiple aerosol generating circuits are configured to exchange environmental data with each other. Example 52. A system as described in Example 51, wherein the environmental data includes location data of multiple aerosol generating devices. Example 53. A system described in any one of Examples 51 or 52, wherein the environmental data includes one or more parameters of airflow.

[0064] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the following figures: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0065] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic side plan view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a user using a system according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0066] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of an aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 includes a receptacle 102, an aerosol generating facility 106, an output indicator 108, control electronics 110, an airflow sensor 112, and a receiver 114. An aerosol generating article 104 is received within the receptacle 102 and is in contact with the aerosol generating facility 106. The aerosol generating facility 106 is configured to cause the aerosol generating article 104 to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user. The aerosol generating facility 106 may be a heater, vaporizer, or other device configured to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user. The control electronics 110 is operably coupled to the aerosol generating facility 106. The control electronics 110 may be configured to provide power to the aerosol generating facility 106 to generate a desired amount of aerosol for inhalation.

[0067] The airflow sensor 112 is operatively coupled to the control electronics 110. The airflow sensor may be configured to detect a parameter related to the air pattern in proximity to the aerosol generating device 100. The parameter related to the air pattern may include velocity, mass, turbulence, temperature, pressure, or other airflow indicators.

[0068] The output indicator 108 is operably coupled to the control electronics 110. The control electronics 110 may be configured to cause the output indicator to indicate the direction in which a user should exhale after inhaling into the aerosol generating device 100.

[0069] FIG. 2 illustrates an example block diagram of system 130 including air pattern detection subsystem 132 , discharge direction determination subsystem 134 , and output indicator subsystem 136 .

[0070] The air pattern detection subsystem 132 may be configured to detect parameters related to an air pattern proximate an aerosol generating device, such as the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1. The parameters related to the air pattern may include velocity, mass, turbulence, temperature, pressure, or other airflow indicators. The air pattern detection subsystem 132 includes an airflow sensor 138. The airflow sensor 138 may be configured to sense one or more parameters of the airflow external to the aerosol generating device. The airflow sensor 138 may be integrated into the aerosol generating device, a fan, a computing device, a ventilation system, an HVAC system, a vehicle such as an automobile, or other electronic device.

[0071] The air pattern detection subsystem 132 includes a mapping facility 140 configured to map a space proximate the aerosol generating device. The mapping facility 140 may be configured to map the space in two or three dimensions. The mapping facility 140 may be configured to use sensed parameters of the airflow to map airflow patterns in the space proximate the aerosol generating device. Mapping may include assigning airflow vectors to coordinates in the space, assigning objects or obstacles to coordinates in the space, assigning airflow sources to coordinates in the space, or assigning additional aerosol generating devices to coordinates in the space. Mapping may further include periodically updating the positions or coordinates of such objects or parameters.

[0072] The air pattern detection subsystem further includes one or more aerosol generating devices 142. The one or more aerosol generating devices 142 may include the same components as the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1. For example, each of the aerosol generating devices 142 may include a receptacle, an aerosol generating facility, an output indicator 108, control electronics, an airflow sensor, and a receiver. The aerosol generating devices 142 may be configured to communicate with or provide data to each other or to a computing device for processing. Such data processing may enable the location of the aerosol generating device 142 and air patterns proximate to the aerosol generating device 142 to be determined and mapped.

[0073] The ejection direction determination subsystem 134 is configured to map a space proximate to one or more aerosol generating devices 142 and to determine an ejection direction. The ejection direction determination subsystem 134 may be configured to receive input related to a desired flow of the exhaled constituents within the mapped space. The input may be received via a user interface, such as a touch screen, keyboard, mouse, voice command, or other user interaction. The ejection determination subsystem includes a display 144 configured to render the mapped space. The mapped space may be represented as a two-dimensional or three-dimensional space. The two-dimensional representation may be presented as a top-down view or plan view of the mapped space. The three-dimensional representation may be displayed using augmented reality or virtual reality. The presentation of the mapped space may include indicators showing the ejection direction, a predetermined location, the location of one or more aerosol generating devices, an estimated aerosol constituent concentration, an airflow source, an airflow pattern, or other indicia mapped to the space.

[0074] The output indicator subsystem 136 is configured to provide the user with an indication of the determined direction in which the user should exhale. Such an indication may be provided using the display 144. The display 144 may provide an indication of the cardinal direction, sequential direction, or inter-cardinal direction in which the user should exhale in two-dimensional space. In three-dimensional space, the display 144 may provide an image indicating the direction in which the user should exhale. Such an image may be a static image. Alternatively, augmented reality or virtual reality may be used to provide the user with an indication of which direction to exhale. For example, the display 144 may be included within a smart device that allows the user to view different portions of the mapped space as the smart device or user moves throughout the mapped space. The interior of a vehicle, such as an automobile, may include the display 144. Additionally, an indicator may be presented to the user depending on which portion of the mapped space is presented on the display 144. The smart device may be configured to present a portion of the mapped space that is visible to a camera of the smart device. When the camera is pointed at a high or low threshold target, an indicator identifying such high or low threshold target may be provided to the user on the display 144. As the user moves the smart device or reorients the indicator, when the camera is pointing in the exhalation direction, the exhalation direction may be indicated on the display 144. If the exhalation direction is not visible to the camera, an indicator may be provided on the display 144 indicating the direction the user should orient to face the exhalation direction.

[0075] The output indicator subsystem 136 may be configured to provide the user with an indication of the determined direction in which the user should exhale using the aerosol generating device. The output indicator subsystem 136 may optionally include one or more lights 146 or speakers 148. The lights 146 may be configured to emit light based on the exhalation direction and the direction in which the user is facing. The light 146 closest to the exhalation direction may be configured to emit light to indicate the direction in which the user should exhale. The light 146 closest to the exhalation direction may be configured to flash or emit a first color to indicate that the user should be oriented to face the exhalation direction. The light 146 may flash faster or change color as the user faces toward the exhalation direction. All lights 146 of the aerosol generating device may be configured to emit light when the user is facing the exhalation direction. The one or more speakers 148 may be configured to provide instructions based on an audible phrase indicating the exhalation direction. The audible instructions may include a directional indicator based on, for example, "exhale left," "exhale right," "exhale north," or other phrases. One or more 148 speakers may be configured to emit a beep or chime to indicate the exhale direction. The light 146 or speaker 148 may be incorporated into the aerosol generating device, a smartphone, a wearable device, a vehicle such as an automobile, or other mobile computing device.

[0076] 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of a user 200 inhaling and then exhaling into an aerosol generating device 100 and using a system that indicates the direction of exhalation. The system includes an aerosol generating device 100 and a computing device 160. Various components of the system may be included in the aerosol generating device 100 or the computing device 160. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 or the computing device 160 may include one or more of an air pattern detection subsystem, an exhalation direction determination subsystem, and an output indicator subsystem as described herein.

[0077] The computing device 160 includes a display 162. As the user 200 uses or inhales the aerosol generating device, a mapped space 210 including indicators 212, 214, 216 is displayed to the user on the display 162. The mapped space 210 may be displayed in two or three dimensions. A two-dimensional representation of the mapped space 210 may be a top-down plan view of the space. A three-dimensional representation of the mapped space 210 may include one or more images of a portion of the mapped space, an augmented reality of the mapped space 210, or a virtual reality rendering of the mapped space 210. The indicators 212, 214, 216 may indicate the direction of exhalation, a predetermined target, the location of one or more aerosol generating devices, an estimated concentration of exhaled constituents, airflow source, airflow patterns, or other indicia mapped to the space.

[0078] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like, should be understood in all cases as modified by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A±2%. Within this context, the number A may be considered to include a numerical value that is within the general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A may deviate by the percentages recited above, in some cases as used in the appended claims, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel property(ies) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein.

Claims

1. 1. A method for indicating a direction of exhalation for a user who inhales and then exhales from an aerosol generating device, comprising: determining air patterns proximate to the aerosol generating device; and indicating the exhalation direction based on the air pattern.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device comprises determining a direction of airflow proximate to the aerosol-generating device.

3. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the air pattern adjacent to the aerosol generating device comprises determining an air flow speed adjacent to the aerosol generating device.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device comprises determining airflow turbulence proximate to the aerosol-generating device.

5. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein determining one or more of the direction of airflow, the speed of airflow, and the turbulence of airflow adjacent to the aerosol generating device includes collecting data from an airflow sensor.

6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the aerosol generating device comprises the airflow sensor.

7. The method of claim 5 , wherein the airflow sensor is remote from the aerosol generating device.

8. The method of claim 2 , wherein determining one or more of the direction of airflow, the speed of airflow, and the turbulence of airflow adjacent to the aerosol generating device includes processing data from a ventilation system.

9. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein determining one or more of the direction of airflow, the speed of airflow, and the turbulence of airflow adjacent the aerosol generating device includes processing data from a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.

10. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the air pattern proximate to the aerosol-generating device comprises mapping an aspect of the air pattern onto a three-dimensional representation of a space proximate to the aerosol-generating article.

11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising mapping the three-dimensional space proximate the aerosol-generating article to generate the three-dimensional representation of the space.

12. The method of claim 10 , further comprising locating the aerosol generating device within the map of the three-dimensional space.

13. 11. An aerosol generating device configured to perform the method of claim 1, the aerosol generating device comprising: a receptacle configured to receive an aerosol generating article; an aerosol generating facility configured to generate an aerosol into the aerosol generating article for inhalation by a user; control electronics operably coupled to the aerosol generating facility; an airflow sensor configured to detect one or more parameters of airflow outside the aerosol generating device, the control electronics operably coupled to the airflow sensor; and an output indicator, the control electronics configured to cause the output indicator to indicate a direction in which a user should exhale after inhaling into the aerosol generating device based on the one or more detected airflow parameters.

14. A system configured to perform the method of claim 1, comprising: an air pattern detection subsystem configured to detect a parameter related to an air pattern proximate to an aerosol generating device; an exhalation direction determination subsystem configured to determine a direction in which a user should exhale after inhaling the aerosol generating device based on the detected parameter related to the air pattern; and an output indicator subsystem configured to provide the user with an indication of the determined direction in which the user should exhale.

15. The system of claim 14 comprising the aerosol generating device.

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