Aerosol generating device method, aerosol generating device case method, aerosol generating device, and aerosol generating device case

Abstract

1. A method for an aerosol generating device, comprising: determining whether the aerosol generating device is connected to an aerosol generating device case for the first time; and, if the aerosol generating device is connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time, pairing the aerosol generating device with the aerosol generating device case by sending an identifier of the aerosol generating device to the aerosol generating device case, receiving an identifier of the aerosol generating device case from the aerosol generating device case, storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generating device, and establishing a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generating device case.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of aerosol generating devices. In particular, the present invention is directed to an aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating device case, a system including an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating device case, a method for an aerosol generating device, and a method for an aerosol generating device case. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol generating devices, also referred to as inhalation devices, such as electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and aerosol inhalers, are known.

[0003] Such aerosol generating devices conventionally include an atomizer, a power supply, and a tobacco stick, liquid-filled capsule, or similar means disposed within the device to generate an aerosol (i.e., vapor) that may be inhaled by a user. Such means may be referred to as an aerosol-generating article and may include a quantity of aerosol-generating material.

[0004] The generated aerosol may, for example, include a form of nicotine such that a user of the inhalation device may, for example, simulate smoking a cigarette by inhaling the generated aerosol.

[0005] Such aerosol generating devices are generally handheld devices. Generally, handheld aerosol generating devices must be relatively small and relatively lightweight in order to be handheld. This can often result in aerosol generating devices having limited memory space and / or power supply, and / or a simple or minimal user interface. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The aerosol generating device may be provided with a compatible aerosol generating device case, which is typically in the form of a handheld electronic device.

[0007] The aerosol generating device case may be designed to receive all or part of the aerosol generating device therein when the aerosol generating device is not in use and provide one or more functions, for example, the aerosol generating device case may be capable of charging the aerosol generating device received therein.

[0008] However, the aerosol generating device case may have alternative or additional functionality, such as, for example, storing and protecting the aerosol generating device when not in use (e.g., during transport), providing a user interface that a user may use to configure an aerosol generating device received therein, and / or providing a terminal through which an external entity (e.g., a smartphone, laptop, etc.) may interact with an aerosol generating device received therein.

[0009] However, the present inventors have recognized that various problems may arise when using an aerosol generating device having an aerosol generating device case.

[0010] As an example, a user may realize during or after use of the aerosol generating device that they have forgotten where they put the aerosol generating device case and may be unable to find it, or may realize that they left the aerosol generating device case in a previous location. Similarly, a user may lose, misplace, or leave behind an aerosol generating device, for example, if the user does not return the aerosol generating device to the aerosol generating device case immediately after use.

[0011] Furthermore, existing aerosol generating devices and aerosol generating device cases generally have a standard design and appearance, especially for products within the same range or from the same vendor, so that many users may have aerosol generating devices and aerosol generating device cases that have a similar or identical appearance.

[0012] Therefore, there is a possibility that a problem may occur in which a user mistakes someone else's aerosol generating device or aerosol generating device case for their own. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The present invention is intended to address one or more of the technical problems set forth above.

[0014] In particular, in light of the limitations discussed above, the inventors have devised a method for an aerosol generating device according to a first exemplary embodiment herein, comprising determining whether the aerosol generating device is connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time. The method further comprises, if the aerosol generating device is connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time, pairing the aerosol generating device with the aerosol generating device case by transmitting an identifier of the aerosol generating device to the aerosol generating device case, receiving an identifier of the aerosol generating device case from the aerosol generating device case, and storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generating device. The method further comprises establishing a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generating device case.

[0015] The inventors have further devised a method for an aerosol generation device case according to a second exemplary embodiment herein, the method including determining whether the aerosol generation device case is connected to the aerosol generation device for the first time. If the aerosol generation device case is connected to the aerosol generation device for the first time, the method further includes pairing with the aerosol generation device by transmitting an identifier of the aerosol generation device case to the aerosol generation device, receiving an identifier of the aerosol generation device from the aerosol generation device, and storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generation device case. The method further includes establishing a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generation device.

[0016] The inventors have further devised, according to a third exemplary aspect herein, an aerosol generating device comprising a transmit / receive section, a memory section and a control section, the control section being configured to control the transmit / receive section and the memory section to perform the method according to the first exemplary aspect herein.

[0017] The inventors have further devised, according to a fourth exemplary embodiment herein, an aerosol generating device case comprising a transmit / receive section, a memory section, and a control section, the control section being configured to control the transmit / receive section and the memory section to carry out the method according to the second exemplary embodiment.

[0018] The inventors have further devised, according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present specification, a computer program which, when executed by a control unit of an aerosol generating device, causes the control section to perform the method according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present specification.

[0019] The inventors have further devised a computer program according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present specification, which, when executed by a control unit of an aerosol generating device case, causes the control section to perform the method according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present specification.

[0020] The inventors have further devised, according to a seventh exemplary embodiment herein, a system comprising an aerosol generating device according to the third exemplary embodiment and an aerosol generating device case according to the fourth exemplary embodiment. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] Embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: like reference numbers appearing in different drawings may indicate identical or functionally similar elements unless otherwise indicated, and in which:

[0022] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment herein. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating components of an aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment herein. [Diagram 3] 2 is a schematic diagram of a system including the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and an aerosol generating device case, according to an exemplary embodiment herein. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating components of a case according to an example embodiment herein. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating a process by which the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 may establish a wireless communication link with a paired aerosol generating device case, according to an exemplary embodiment herein. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process by which a control section of an aerosol generating device may determine whether the aerosol generating device is being connected to a case for the first time. [Figure 7] 4 is a flow diagram showing a first process performed by the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 that has established a wireless communication link with the case of FIG. 3. [Figure 8] 4 is a flow diagram showing a second process performed by the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 that has established a wireless communication link with the case of FIG. 3. [Figure 9]A flow diagram showing a process by which the control section of the aerosol generating device may output an alert via the output section of the aerosol generating device in response to received user input. [Figure 10] 4 is a flow diagram showing a third process performed by the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 that has established a wireless communication link with the case of FIG. 3. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram showing a fourth process performed by the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process by which the case of FIG. 3 may establish a wireless communication link with a paired aerosol generating device, according to an exemplary embodiment herein. [Figure 13] A flow diagram showing an example process by which the control section of the case may determine whether the case is being connected to an aerosol generating device for the first time. [Figure 14] 4 is a flow diagram showing a first process performed by the case of FIG. 3 that has established a wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1. [Figure 15] A flow diagram showing a second process performed by the case of Figure 3 that has established a wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device of Figure 1. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process by which a control section of a case may output an alert via an output section of the case in response to received user input. [Figure 17] 4 is a flow diagram showing a third process performed by the case of FIG. 3 that has established a wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1. [Figure 18] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing a fourth process performed by the case of FIG. 3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Where a reference sign follows a technical feature in a drawing, the detailed description, or any claim, the reference sign is included solely for the purpose of enhancing comprehension of the drawing, the detailed description, and the claims, and thus neither the reference sign nor the absence thereof shall have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim element.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment herein.

[0026] The aerosol generating device 100 is a handheld device configured to generate an aerosol (i.e., a vapor) that may be inhaled by a user of the aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 comprises a power supply unit 110, an aerosol generating unit 120, and a mouthpiece 130.

[0027] The power supply unit 110 may, as in this exemplary embodiment, comprise a power supply section 111, a terminal 112, and an input means 113. As an example, the input means 113 may, as in this exemplary embodiment, comprise a button.

[0028] The power supply 111 may be a rechargeable power supply, as in this exemplary embodiment. The power supply 111 may be a lithium-ion battery, as in this exemplary embodiment. Alternatively, the power supply 111 may be, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery or an electric double layer capacitor (EDLC).

[0029] The terminal 112 may include a power terminal for use in charging the power supply 111, as in this exemplary embodiment. That is, the terminal 112 may be connectable to an external device, such as the aerosol generating device case 200 described with reference to FIG. 3, or a main power supply, as in this exemplary embodiment, and configured to receive power to charge the power supply 111.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, terminal 112 may include a data terminal that enables transmission of data to and reception of data from an external device connected to aerosol generating device 100 via terminal 112, as in this exemplary embodiment.

[0031] As an example, the terminal 112 may include one or more of a USB terminal, a micro USB terminal, a wireless charging terminal, and the like.

[0032] The aerosol generating unit 20 may, as in this embodiment, include an aerosol-generating article 122 containing a quantity of aerosol-generating material, and a load 121 for atomizing the aerosol-generating material in the aerosol-generating article 122. Power is provided to the load 121 by a power supply unit 110.

[0033] By way of example, the aerosol-generating article 122 may comprise a reservoir or capsule for storing the aerosol-generating material in liquid form. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating material may comprise a tobacco stick (also referred to as a "heatable tobacco stick," "heat-not-burn tobacco stick," etc.), a gel-like composition in a capsule or pod, or similar means, depending on the type.

[0034] Load 121 atomizes (e.g., by heating) the aerosol-generating material, thereby generating an aerosol that passes through mouthpiece 30 in response to a user's inhalation. In one embodiment, load 121 is represented by the electrical load of a heating element, i.e., the energy dissipated by the heating element. The heating element may be resistive, inductive, etc.

[0035] As an example, the aerosol generating device 100 may be a so-called "e-vapor" device, as in this exemplary embodiment. Alternatively, the aerosol generating device may be a so-called "T-vapor" device, also commonly referred to as a heat-not-burn device or a heated tobacco device.

[0036] 1, the mouthpiece 130 may include a flavor source 131. The flavor source 131 may include, for example, particles of shredded raw tobacco or another plant (e.g., mint or herb) and / or a flavor such as menthol, such that the flavor is added to the aerosol as it passes through the flavor source 131. Additionally, the mouthpiece 130 may include any suitable inhalation port or the like (not shown) necessary for a user to inhale the generated aerosol.

[0037] The power supply unit 110, the aerosol generating unit 120, and the mouthpiece 130 may be removable so that the individual units may be easily replaced. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-generating article 122 and / or the aerosol-generating material and flavor source 131 stored therein may be removable and replaceable from their respective units.

[0038] Although the aerosol generating unit 120 and mouthpiece 130 of the aerosol generating device 100 in FIG. 1 are shown as separate units, these two units may alternatively be provided as a single unit, and the flavor source 131 may optionally be provided together with the aerosol generating material within the aerosol generating article 121.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating components of an aerosol generating device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment herein.

[0040] 2, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a control section 101, a transmit / receive (Tx / Rx) section 102, and a memory section 103. Additionally, the aerosol generating device 100 may include an output section 104, and optionally, an input section 105 and / or at least one sensor 106, as in this exemplary embodiment.

[0041] The control section 101 may comprise one or more processing units, such as a microprocessor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU)) or a suitably programmed Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC).

[0042] The control section 101 may be configured, as in this example, to control the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The control section 101 may, as in this example embodiment, include separate modules or sections for each function to be performed.

[0043] As an example, the control section 101 may control the supply of power to the aerosol generation unit 120 and the charging of the power supply 111. Additionally or alternatively, the control section 101 may control the supply of power to the at least one sensor 106 as required, receive and process signals from the at least one sensor 106, and control the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 based on the received signals. Additionally or alternatively, the control section 101 may control the output of information to a user of the aerosol generation device 100 via the output section 104, and control the receipt of user input by the input section 105, and control the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 based on the received user input.

[0044] The Tx / Rx section 102 may be configured to transmit and receive information by any suitable wireless communication means known to those skilled in the art. For example, the Tx / Rx section 102 may be configured to transmit and receive information by any suitable wireless connection, such as Bluetooth. TM, NFC, or NR connectivity, or an indirect communication link, which may be provided by a network including a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and / or the Internet. Additionally, the Tx / Rx section 102 may comprise the processing and communication capabilities necessary to operate in accordance with one or more conventional telecommunications standards, including, but not limited to, GSM, PCS, 3GPP, LTE, LTE-A, UMTS, 3G, 4G, 5G.

[0045] Additionally, the Tx / Rx section 102 may be configured to transmit and receive information via any suitable wired communication means known to those skilled in the art, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, as in this exemplary embodiment. In such an exemplary embodiment, the Tx / Rx section 102 may be configured to perform wired communication via the terminal 112.

[0046] The memory section 103 may comprise both volatile and non-volatile memory resources, as in this embodiment. By way of example, the memory section 103 may comprise a working memory (e.g., random access memory). In addition, the memory section 103 may include an instruction store (e.g., a ROM in the form of an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) or Flash memory) that stores computer programs comprising computer readable instructions that, when executed by the control section 101, cause the control section 101 to perform various functions. The memory section 103 may further comprise memory resources for storing additional information, such as, for example, information regarding the at least one sensor 106 and / or information for use in establishing a wireless communication link with a paired aerosol generating device case.

[0047] The memory section 103 may store a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by the control section 101, cause the control section 101 to perform any of the methods described below with respect to Figures 5-11.

[0048] The output section 104, as in this exemplary embodiment, may comprise any means known in the art suitable for outputting information to a user. By way of example, the output section may comprise one or more units including one or more of a display unit (e.g., an LCD screen or a touch screen), a speaker unit (e.g., one or more loudspeakers (e.g., one or more moving coil loudspeakers, buzzers, horns, and sounders), a lighting unit (e.g., one or more LEDs), and a haptic feedback unit (e.g., an eccentric rotating mass, ERM, vibration motor and / or linear resonant actuator, LRA, vibration motor).

[0049] The input section 105 may, as in this exemplary embodiment, comprise means for allowing the aerosol generating device 100 to receive input from a user of the aerosol generating device 100. As a non-limiting example, the power supply unit 110 may comprise a button 11 as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the aerosol generating device 100 may comprise any suitable input means, such as one or more additional buttons, one or more switches, a touchpad or touchscreen, or a suitable combination of such input means.

[0050] In exemplary embodiments, such as the present exemplary embodiment, in which the aerosol generating device 100 includes at least one sensor 106, the at least one sensor 106 may include, for example, an inhalation sensor for use in detecting an inhalation action by a user of the aerosol generating device 100, and / or one or more of a voltage sensor and a current sensor for use in detecting charging and discharging of the power supply 111 and / or connection of another device via the terminals 112. In such exemplary embodiments, the control section 101 may be configured to control the aerosol generating device 100 based on the output of the at least one sensor 106.

[0051] 2, the Tx / Rx section 102, the output section 104, the input section 105, and the at least one sensor 106 are shown separate from the control section 101. Alternatively, one or more of these components may be integrated with the control section 101.

[0052] In addition, the components 101-106 shown in Fig. 2 may be provided in any of the units 101, 102, and 103 of the aerosol generating device 100 in Fig. 1. As an example, the components 101-106 shown in Fig. 2 may be provided in a power supply unit 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. Although not shown in Fig. 2, each of the components 101-106 of the aerosol generating device 100 may receive power from a power supply unit 111.

[0053] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a system 1 including the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1 and an aerosol generating device case 200 according to an exemplary embodiment herein.

[0054] The aerosol generating device case 200 is also referred to herein as “case 200.” As shown in FIG.

[0055] The aerosol generating device case 200 may be configured, as in this exemplary embodiment, to receive all or a portion of the aerosol generating device 100 within the cavity 210 when the aerosol generating device is not in use.

[0056] The aerosol generating device case 200 shown in Fig. 3 may be described as a handheld electronic device. The case 200 may be configured to provide one or more functions, as in this exemplary embodiment. As an example, the case 200 may have the functionality to charge the aerosol generating device 100 received therein, as in this exemplary embodiment.

[0057] The case 200 may provide alternative or additional functionality, such as, for example, storing and protecting the aerosol generating device 100 when not in use (e.g., during transport), providing a user interface that a user may use to configure the aerosol generating device 100 received therein, and / or providing a terminal through which an external entity (e.g., a smartphone, laptop, etc.) may interact with the aerosol generating device 100 received therein.

[0058] The power supply 220 may be a rechargeable power supply, as in this exemplary embodiment. The power supply 220 may be a lithium-ion battery, as in this exemplary embodiment. Alternatively, the power supply 111 may be, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery or an electric double layer capacitor (EDLC).

[0059] Alternatively, in other exemplary embodiments, the case may not include a power supply 220 suitable for charging another device. As an example, the case 200 may include a smaller power supply suitable for powering only the components of the case 200, or may be configured to be connected to a main power supply during use.

[0060] In such exemplary embodiments, the case of the aerosol generating device 200 may not have the capability to charge the aerosol generating device received therein. Alternatively, in such exemplary embodiments, the case 200 may be configured to provide a charging capability by providing any conversion and / or rectification means necessary for the power supply 111 of the aerosol generating device 100 to be charged from a mains power supply.

[0061] The terminal 230 may comprise a power terminal for use in charging the power supply 111 of the aerosol generation device 100 when it is received within the cavity 210, as in this exemplary embodiment. That is, the terminal 230 may be connectable to the aerosol generation device 100, as in this exemplary embodiment, and configured to supply power to charge the power supply 111 of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, terminals 230 may comprise data terminals that allow for the transmission of data to and reception of data from an external device connected to case 200 via terminals 230, as in this exemplary embodiment.

[0063] As an example, the terminal 230 may include one or more of a USB terminal, a micro USB terminal, a wireless charging terminal, and the like.

[0064] The case 200 is configured such that the terminals 230 are connected to the terminals 112 of the aerosol generating device 100 when the aerosol generating device 100 is received within the cavity 210, as in this exemplary embodiment. As an example, the terminals 112 and the terminals 230 may be configured to provide an electrical connection between the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 for the transfer of power and / or data.

[0065] Additionally or alternatively, terminals 112 and 230 may be configured to provide a physical, mechanical connection between aerosol generating device 100 and aerosol generating device 200. This may be advantageous for secure storage of aerosol generating device 100 within case 200, for example during transport.

[0066] Additionally, in exemplary embodiments such as this exemplary embodiment in which case 200 includes a rechargeable power supply 220, case 200 may include additional terminals (not shown) for use in charging power supply 220.

[0067] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating components of case 200 according to an example embodiment herein.

[0068] 4, case 200 includes a control section 201, a transmit / receive (Tx / Rx) section 202, and a memory section 203. Additionally, case 200 may include an output section 204, and optionally, an input section 205 and / or at least one sensor 206, as in this exemplary embodiment.

[0069] The above description of the control section 101 of the aerosol generating device 100 applies mutatis mutandis to the control section 201 of the case 200.

[0070] The above description of the Tx / Rx section 102 of the aerosol generating device 100 applies mutatis mutandis to the Tx / Rx section 202 of the case 200.

[0071] The above description of the memory section 103 of the aerosol generating device 100 applies mutatis mutandis to the memory section 203 of the case 200. The memory section 203 may store a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by the control section 201, cause the control section 201 to perform any of the methods described below with respect to Figures 12-18.

[0072] The above description of the output section 104 of the aerosol generating device 100 applies mutatis mutandis to the output section 204 of the case 200 .

[0073] The above description of the input section 105 of the aerosol generating device 100 applies mutatis mutandis to the input section 205 of the case 200 .

[0074] In exemplary embodiments, such as this exemplary embodiment, in which case 200 includes at least one sensor 206, the at least one sensor 206 may include, for example, one or more of a voltage and current sensor for use in detecting charging and discharging of power supply 220 and / or connection of another device via terminals 230. In such exemplary embodiments, control section 201 may be configured to control case 200 based on the output of the at least one sensor 206.

[0075] 4, the Tx / Rx section 202, the output section 204, the input section 205, and the at least one sensor 206 are shown separate from the control section 201. Alternatively, one or more of these components may be integrated with the control section 201. Although not shown in FIG. 4, each of the components 201-206 of the case 200 may receive power from a power supply 220.

[0076] As discussed above, the present inventors have recognized that various problems may arise when using an aerosol generating device having an aerosol generating device case.

[0077] Accordingly, FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a process by which the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1 may establish a wireless communication link with a paired aerosol generating device case, according to an exemplary embodiment herein.

[0078] In process step S1 of FIG. 5, the control section 101 determines whether the aerosol generating device 100 is being connected to the case 200 for the first time.

[0079] For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may be considered to be connected to the case 200 when some form of electrical connection detectable by the control section 101 (e.g., based on a received signal or the output of one or more voltage or current sensors) is established between the two devices.

[0080] As a more detailed example, the aerosol generating device 100 may be considered to be connected to the case 200 when the aerosol generating device 100 is received within the cavity 210 of the case 200 and an electrical connection is established between the terminal 112 and the terminal 230.

[0081] As an example, the aerosol generating device 100 may be considered to be connected to the case 200 for the first time when the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 are not currently paired (i.e., one or both devices do not store the other's device identifier and / or a wireless communication link has not yet been established between the two devices).

[0082] As an example, FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process by which the control section 101 may determine whether an aerosol generating device is being connected to a case for the first time.

[0083] In process step S110 of FIG. 6, the control section 101 determines whether an identifier for the case 200 has been pre-stored in the memory section 103.

[0084] In process step S120 of FIG. 6, if an identifier for the case 200 has not been previously stored in the memory section 103, the control section 101 determines that the aerosol generating device 100 is being connected to the case 200 for the first time.

[0085] Returning to FIG. 5, the aerosol generating device 100 may preferably be considered to be connected to the case 200 for the first time only if the aerosol generating device 100 is not currently paired with any case (i.e., the aerosol generating device 100 does not store an identifier for any aerosol generating device case and / or a wireless communication link has not yet been established with any aerosol generating device case).

[0086] This may be advantageous to ensure that an aerosol generating device 100 is paired with only a single case 200, thereby reliably ensuring that the aerosol generating device 100 cannot subsequently, for example, accidentally pair with someone else's aerosol generating device case.

[0087] Additionally, process step S1 may optionally include, as in this exemplary embodiment, receiving information from case 200 indicating the corresponding identification result by case 200, and the aerosol generating device 100 may only identify that it is connected to case 200 if both devices identify this as the first connection.

[0088] When the aerosol generating device 100 is connected to the case 200 for the first time, the control section 101 pairs with the case 200 .

[0089] The pairing may be performed via a physical data connection, as in this exemplary embodiment. As an example, the pairing may be performed by the control section 101 controlling the Tx / Rx section 102 to transmit and receive data via terminals 112 and 230. More generally, the pairing may be performed by any suitable communication means as described above with respect to Figures 1 and 3.

[0090] In particular, in order to pair with the case 200, in process step S2 of FIG. 5, the control section 101 controls the Tx / Rx section 102 to transmit an identifier of the aerosol generating device 100 to the case 200.

[0091] In general, the identifier for case 200 may comprise any information that allows case 200 to be uniquely identified, and may be composed of alphanumeric characters, binary values, etc.

[0092] In process step S3 of FIG. 5, the control section 101 controls the Tx / Rx section 102 to receive an identifier of the case 200 from the case 200.

[0093] In general, the identifier of the aerosol generating device 100 may comprise any information that allows the aerosol generating device 100 to be uniquely identified, and may consist of alphanumeric characters, binary values, etc.

[0094] In process step S4 of FIG. 5, the control section 101 stores the received identifier in the memory section 103 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0095] In process step S5 of FIG. 5, the aerosol generating device 100 establishes a wireless communication link with the paired case 200.

[0096] Both pairing and process step S5 may be performed while the aerosol generating device 100 is connected to the case 200 for the first time, as in this exemplary embodiment.

[0097] Alternatively, process step S5 may be performed even if the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 are no longer connected, i.e., in some example embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 may only need to be connected during process steps S1-S4 of FIG.

[0098] The established wireless communication link may be established by any suitable wireless communication means as described above with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3 (e.g., Bluetooth TM , RF, NFC, LTE, or 5G IoT, etc.

[0099] A wireless communication link may be established with the paired case 200 such that the wireless communication link persists even when the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 are no longer connected, as in this exemplary embodiment. As an example, the wireless communication link may persist as long as the case 200 is within communication range of the aerosol generating device 100, based on the wireless technology used.

[0100] 3 thus establishes pairing between the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 when the aerosol generating device 100 is connected to the case 200 for the first time. Pairing requires a two-way exchange of identifiers between the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 such that an identifier for the aerosol generating device 100 is provided to the case 200 for storage and an identifier for the case 200 is provided to the aerosol generating device 100 for storage. Wireless communication is then established between the paired devices.

[0101] Thus, the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 may interact via a wireless communication link even when the aerosol generating device 100 is in use or is not otherwise connected to the case 200. Additionally, each of the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 is provided with an identifier of the other device, allowing paired aerosol generating devices 100 and cases 200 to recognize each other if they are subsequently reconnected.

[0102] Thus, the established pairing and wireless communication link may make it possible to address problems such as, for example, assisting a user in finding their case 200 or their aerosol generating device 100 if one of them is lost, alerting a user that either the case 200 or the aerosol generating device 100 has been misplaced, and / or preventing a user from mistaking someone else's case 200 or aerosol generating device 100 for their own. Exemplary applications of pairing and wireless communication links to such problems are described in more detail below with reference to Figures 7-11.

[0103] In addition, the established pairing and wireless communication link may enable interaction between the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 even when these devices are not connected, without resorting to any additional external device (e.g., an application on a cell phone or tablet, or a connection to a server) to address such issues. Furthermore, the pairing and wireless communication link disclosed herein may be implemented using technology that is typically included in and compatible with the aerosol generating device and the case, and does not require a large amount of additional hardware or complex software to implement, which may contribute to providing a lower cost and less complex device, as well as maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing process.

[0104] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating a first process performed by the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1 upon establishing a wireless communication link with the case 200 of FIG.

[0105] 7, the control section 101 receives user input via the input section 105 of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, a user may provide input via the input section 105 if the user is unable to locate the case 200.

[0106] As an example, in this exemplary embodiment, a user may provide input by pressing a button 113 on the aerosol generating device 100 one or more times. The number of times the button is pressed and the manner in which the button is pressed (e.g., a simple press or holding it down for a predetermined period of time) to be recognized as a particular command may be pre-stored in the aerosol generating device 100 as part of its operating commands. Alternatively, user input may be received in any form suitable for any of the input sections 105 discussed above with respect to FIG. 2.

[0107] In process step S12 of FIG. 7, the control section 101 controls the Tx / Rx section 102 to send a command to output an alert to the case 200 via the wireless communication link.

[0108] The instructions may, as in this exemplary embodiment, specify the type of alert to be output by case 200. For example, the type may be predefined or specified as part of a user input, and may specify any of the output sections 104 and 204 discussed above with respect to Figures 2 and 4. Alternatively, the instructions may not specify the type of alert to be output, which may instead be specified on the case 200 side.

[0109] In embodiments, such as the exemplary embodiment, which includes optional process step S11, the instructions are transmitted in response to receiving user input.

[0110] Alternatively, the aerosol generating device 100 may be configured to transmit instructions in response to the detected signal strength of the signal received from the case 200 falling below a threshold. As an example, the threshold may be set to cause the aerosol generating device 100 to transmit instructions while the detected signal strength is still strong enough to allow reliable transmission to the case 200. This may be advantageous where the wireless communication link has a limited range, to avoid attempting to transmit instructions only after the case 200 is out of range.

[0111] As a further alternative, the aerosol generating device 100 may be configured to transmit a command in response to determining that the aerosol generating device 100 and its case 200 have not been connected for more than a set time value, which may be set based on, for example, the battery capacity of the aerosol generating device 100 or its case 200 to ensure that the command is transmitted while both devices have sufficient power.

[0112] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating a second process performed by the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1 having established a wireless communication link with the case 200 of FIG.

[0113] In optional process step S21A, the control section 101 controls the Tx / Rx section 102 to receive instructions over the wireless communication link from the case 200. The instructions description for process step S12 of Figure 7 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S21A.

[0114] In optional process step S21B, the control section 101 determines that the wireless communication link with the case 200 has been severed.

[0115] The control section 101, in this exemplary embodiment, may determine that the wireless communication link with the case 200 has been lost in one or more of the following cases: (i) The detected signal strength of the signal received from case 200 is below a threshold. (ii) No response signal is received from the case 200 within a predetermined period of time after the aerosol generating device 100 transmits a signal. (iii) No signal has been received from case 200 within a predetermined period of time since the previous signal was received.

[0116] In optional process step S21C, the control section 101 receives user input via the input section 105 of the aerosol generating device 200. The description of process step S11 of Figure 7 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S21C.

[0117] In process step S22, the control section 101 outputs an alert via the output section 104 of the aerosol generating device 100. The alert may be in any suitable form that may be output by the output section, examples of which are described above with respect to FIG.

[0118] As an example, outputting an alert via the output section 104 may include at least one of the following, as in this exemplary embodiment: (i) outputting sound through a speaker unit; (ii) emitting light through the lighting unit; (iii) blinking or adjusting the intensity of the light emitted by the lighting unit; (iv) Outputting vibrations via a haptic feedback unit.

[0119] The control section 101 may, in this exemplary embodiment, output an alert in response to the occurrence of any of the process steps S21A, S21B, S21C. As an example, an alert is output in response to a received instruction when any process step S21A is executed.

[0120] The output alert may have different forms depending on which of any process steps 21A-21C triggers the output of the alert, as in this exemplary embodiment. Alternatively, the alert may have the same form in all cases, or may depend on other factors (e.g., battery level or pre-set user preferences).

[0121] If optional process step S21B is performed, an alert is output in response to determining that the wireless communication link with the case 200 has been severed. The loss of the wireless communication link may indicate that the case 200 and the aerosol generating device 100 have moved out of communication range, for example if the user has left one of the devices at a previous location or has otherwise misplaced the device. If the case 200 has been misplaced, the alert output by the aerosol generating device 100 may prompt the user to return to the location and retrieve the case 200. If the aerosol generating device 100 has been misplaced or otherwise misplaced, the alert output may assist the user in locating the aerosol generating device 100.

[0122] If optional process step S21C is performed, an alert is output in response to a received user input. As an example, if the case 200 is lost, the user may provide a user input to instruct the aerosol generating device 100 to output an alert that is modulated based on the strength or intensity of the signal connecting the aerosol generating device 100 and the case to provide the user with an indication of the proximity of the case 200. This may assist the user in locating the case 200.

[0123] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a process by which the control section 101 may output an alert via the output section 104 of the aerosol generating device 100 in response to received user input.

[0124] In process step S221 of Figure 9, the control section 101 detects the signal strength of the signal received from the case 200. By way of example, the aerosol generating device 100 may be equipped with any means necessary to measure / detect the intensity, SIR, SINR, or other measure of the quality or strength of the received signal known to those skilled in the art.

[0125] In process step S222 of Figure 9, the control section 101 adjusts the alert based on the detected signal strength. As an example, the control section 101 may be configured to increase the intensity of the alert as the detected signal strength increases, as in this exemplary embodiment. As a more specific example, if the alert includes a sound output via a speaker unit, the volume may be increased as the detected signal strength increases, or if the alert includes a flashing light emitted by a lighting unit, the flashing rate may be increased as the detected signal strength increases.

[0126] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a third process performed by the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1 having established a wireless communication link with the case 200 of FIG.

[0127] The process of Fig. 10 is executed in order for the aerosol generating device 100 to release the pairing with the case 200. This may also be referred to as resetting the pairing.

[0128] In process step S31 of FIG. 10, the control section 101 receives user input via the input section 104 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0129] As an example, in this exemplary embodiment, a user may provide input by pressing a button 113 on the aerosol generating device 100 one or more times. The number of times the button is pressed and the manner in which the button is pressed (e.g., a simple press or holding it down for a predetermined period of time) to be recognized as a particular command may be pre-stored in the aerosol generating device 100 as part of its operating commands. Alternatively, user input may be received in any form suitable for any of the input sections 105 discussed above with respect to FIG. 2.

[0130] In process step S32 of Figure 11, the control section 101 deletes the received identifier from the memory section 103 in response to the received user input.

[0131] The control section 101 may be configured, as in this exemplary embodiment, to delete the received identifier from the memory section 103 while the aerosol generation device 100 is not connected to the case 200. Preferably, the control section 101 may be configured to allow resetting of the pairing only when the aerosol generation device 100 and the case 200 are not connected. This may provide a low-complexity means of ensuring that the aerosol generation device 100 and the case 200 do not automatically perform pairing after the initial pairing has been reset.

[0132] As described below with respect to FIG. 17, the user may also simultaneously provide an input to instruct the case 200 to unpair from the aerosol generating device 100, for example.

[0133] By unpairing with the case 200, the aerosol generation device 100 may pair and establish a wireless communication link with the case 200 or another aerosol generation device case upon the next connection to that aerosol generation device case, following the process of Figure 3. Thus, a user may easily and conveniently configure the aerosol generation device 100 for use with a new aerosol generation device case and / or configure the case 200 for use with a new aerosol generation device, and may easily and conveniently pair the aerosol generation device 100 and the case 200 again.

[0134] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a fourth process performed by the aerosol generating device 100.

[0135] The process of Figure 11 is executed in response to determining in process step S1 of Figure 5 that this is not the first time that the aerosol generating device 100 has been connected to the case 200. That is, the control section 101 determines that this is not the first time that the aerosol generating device 100 has been connected to the case 200 because, for example, the aerosol generating device 100 has already stored an identifier for the aerosol generating device case in the memory section 103 and / or a wireless communication link has already been established with the aerosol generating device case.

[0136] In process step S41 of FIG. 11, the control section 101 controls the Tx / Rx section 102 to receive an identifier of the case 200 from the case 200.

[0137] In process step S42 of Figure 11, the control section 101 determines whether the received identifier matches a first identifier stored in the memory section 103. As an example, the received identifier may be determined to match the first identifier if both identifiers have the same value (i.e. are identical).

[0138] As a further example, the first identifier stored in memory section 103 may, as in this exemplary embodiment, be an identifier of an aerosol generation device case (which may or may not be case 200) received as part of pairing during initial connection of aerosol generation device 100. Alternatively, the first identifier may be pre-entered by a user via input section 105 to identify the user's aerosol generation device case.

[0139] If the received identifier does not match the first identifier stored in memory section 103, the process of Figure 11 proceeds to process step S46. If the received identifier matches the first identifier stored in memory section 103, the process of Figure 11 proceeds to optional process step S43.

[0140] In optional process step S43 of FIG. 11, the control section 101 controls the Tx / Rx section 102 to transmit an identifier of the aerosol generating device 100 to the case 200.

[0141] In optional process step S44 of FIG. 11, the control section 101 determines whether a signal has been received from the case 200 indicating that the verification failed.

[0142] If the control section 101 determines that a signal indicating that verification has failed has been received from case 200, the process of FIG. 11 proceeds to process step S46.

[0143] If the control section 101 determines that it has not received a signal from the case 200 indicating that the verification was unsuccessful (e.g., it has not received any signal or it has received a signal indicating that the verification was successful), the process of Figure 11 proceeds to process step S45. Alternatively, in an embodiment that does not include optional process steps S43 and S44, the process of Figure 11 may proceed to process step S45 if the control section 101 determines that the received identifier matches the first identifier stored in the memory section 103 in process step S42.

[0144] 11, the control section 101 determines that the verification was successful, i.e., the control section 101 determines that the currently connected case 200 was previously paired based on the first identifier stored in the memory section 103 and, optionally, feedback from the case 200.

[0145] As verification proceeds, the aerosol generating device 100 may, for example, continue to interact with the case 200 via a previously established wireless communication link, or may re-establish the wireless communication link if it was lost at some point after the initial connection.

[0146] In process step S46 of Figure 11, the control section 101 determines that the verification has failed, i.e., one or both of the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 do not store the identifier of the other device in its memory section.

[0147] Optionally, if the validation fails, the control section 101 may be configured to output an alert via the output section 104 of the aerosol generating device 100. In this way, a user may be informed of the validation failure.

[0148] Additionally or alternatively, if the verification fails, the control section 101 may optionally be configured to disable charging of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0149] A verification failure may occur, for example, if the aerosol generating device 100 is paired with a different aerosol generating device case, if the case 200 is paired with a different aerosol generating device, or if the pairing is reset for one of the aerosol generating device 100 and case 200 but not the other.

[0150] Thus, the two-way exchange of identifiers as part of the pairing performed in the process of Figure 3 allows both the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 to recognize the paired device. This may be advantageous compared to a solution in which, for example, only the aerosol generating device case stores the aerosol generating device's identifier. In this case, the aerosol generating device would not be able to recognize its paired case, which could lead to a user accidentally taking and using someone else's case (especially if this other case is not currently paired) and accidentally leaving their own case behind.

[0151] This may also be advantageous over conventional solutions in which a user identifier is used to associate an aerosol generating device with an aerosol generating device case, in particular in such solutions where the aerosol generating device may not be able to distinguish between multiple cases belonging to a user, or vice versa, and therefore cannot ensure that the correct aerosol generating device and case are used together, thereby making it more difficult for users to track their devices.

[0152] Furthermore, it can be ensured that the aerosol generating device is paired with the correct aerosol generating device case by performing pairing only the first time the aerosol generating device 100 is connected to the case 200. This also avoids the need for a user to manually enter identifiers for the two devices to be paired, thereby potentially avoiding a potential source of error.

[0153] Additionally, it can ensure that wireless communication links are established only with paired devices. This in turn can help ensure that information can only be exchanged between paired devices and / or limit the amount of information that can be exchanged between devices that were connected prior to pairing. This can be advantageous to increase the security of any information of the user (e.g., biometric data or other data identifying the user) that is stored on either device.

[0154] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a process by which the case 200 of FIG. 3 may establish a wireless communication link with a paired aerosol generating device 100, according to an exemplary embodiment herein.

[0155] In process step S51 of Figure 12, the control section 201 identifies whether the case 200 is connected to the aerosol generating device 100 for the first time. The description of process step S1 of Figure 5 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S51.

[0156] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process by which the control section 201 may determine whether the case 200 is being connected to the aerosol generating device 100 for the first time.

[0157] In process step S511 of FIG. 13, the control section 201 determines whether an identifier for the aerosol generating device 100 has been pre-stored in the memory section 203.

[0158] In process step S512 of FIG. 13, if the identifier of the aerosol generating device 100 has not been previously stored in the memory section 203, the control section 201 determines that the case 200 is being connected to the aerosol generating device 100 for the first time.

[0159] Returning to FIG. 12, when the case 200 is connected to the aerosol generation device 100 for the first time, the control section 201 pairs with the aerosol generation device 100 .

[0160] The pairing may be performed via a physical data connection, as in this exemplary embodiment. As an example, the pairing may be performed by the control section 201 controlling the Tx / Rx section 202 to transmit and receive data via the terminals 112 and 230. More generally, the pairing may be performed by any suitable communication means as described above with respect to Figures 1 and 3.

[0161] In particular, in order to pair with the aerosol generating device 100, in step S52 of Fig. 12, the control section 201 controls the Tx / Rx section 202 to transmit the identifier of the case 200 to the aerosol generating device 100. The description of process step S2 of Fig. 5 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S52.

[0162] In process step S53 of Fig. 12, the control section 201 controls the Tx / Rx section 202 to receive the identifier of the aerosol generation device 100 from the aerosol generation device 100. The description of process step S3 of Fig. 5 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S53.

[0163] In process step S54 of FIG. 12, the control section 201 stores the received identifier in the memory section 203 of the case 200.

[0164] In process step S55 of Figure 5, the case 200 establishes a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generating device 100. The description of process step S5 of Figure 5 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S55.

[0165] The explanation of the advantages provided by the process of FIG. 5 applies mutatis mutandis to the process of FIG.

[0166] FIG. 14 is a flow diagram illustrating a first process performed by case 200 of FIG. 3 upon establishing a wireless communication link with aerosol generating device 100 of FIG.

[0167] In optional process step S61 of Figure 14, the control section receives user input received via the input section 205 of the case 200. The description of process step S11 of Figure 7 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S61.

[0168] 14, the control section 201 controls the Tx / Rx section 202 to send a command to output an alert via a wireless communication link to the aerosol generating device 100. Optionally, in embodiments such as the exemplary embodiment that include optional process step S61, the command is sent in response to a received user input.

[0169] In general, the description of process step S12 of FIG. 7 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S62.

[0170] FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating a second process performed by case 200 of FIG. 3 upon establishing a wireless communication link with aerosol generating device 100 of FIG.

[0171] In optional process step S71A of Figure 15, the control section 201 controls the Tx / Rx section 202 to receive instructions over the wireless communication link from the aerosol generation device 100. The instructions description for process step S12 of Figure 7 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S71A. In optional process step S71B of Figure 15, the control section 201 determines that the wireless communication link with the aerosol generation device 100 has been disconnected.

[0172] The control section 201, as in this exemplary embodiment, may determine that the wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device 100 has been severed in one or more of the following cases: (i) The detected signal strength of the signal received from the aerosol generating device 100 is less than a threshold value. (ii) No response signal is received from the aerosol generating device 100 within a predetermined period of time after the case 200 transmits a signal. (iii) No signal has been received from the aerosol generating device 100 within a predetermined period of time since the previous signal was received.

[0173] In optional process step S71C of Figure 15, the control section 201 receives user input via the input section 205 of the case 200. The description of process step S11 of Figure 7 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S71C.

[0174] In process step S72 of FIG. 15, the control section 201 outputs an alert via the output section 204 of the case 200.

[0175] If optional process step S71A is performed, an alert is output in response to a received command. If optional process step S71B is performed, an alert is output in response to a determination that the wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device 100 has been severed. If optional process step S71C is performed, an alert is output in response to a received user input.

[0176] Outputting the alert via the output section 204 may, as in this exemplary embodiment, include at least one of the following means: (i) Outputting sound through a speaker unit; (ii) emitting light through the lighting unit; (iii) blinking or adjusting the intensity of the light emitted by the lighting unit; (iv) Outputting vibrations via a haptic feedback unit.

[0177] FIG. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process by which the control section 201 may output an alert via the output section 204 in response to received user input.

[0178] In process step S721 of Figure 16, the control section 201 detects the signal strength of the signal received from the aerosol generating device 100. The description of process step S221 of Figure 9 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S721.

[0179] In process step S722 of Figure 16, the control section 201 adjusts the alert based on the detected signal strength. The description of process step S222 of Figure 9 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S722.

[0180] More generally, the description of, and advantages provided by, process step S22 of FIG. 8 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S72.

[0181] FIG. 17 is a flow diagram illustrating a third process performed by case 200 of FIG. 3 that has established a wireless communication link with aerosol generating device 100 of FIG.

[0182] The process of Fig. 17 is executed in order for the case 200 to release the pairing with the aerosol generating device 100. This may be referred to as resetting the pairing.

[0183] In process step S81 of Figure 17, the control section 201 receives user input via the input section 205 of the case 200. The description of process step S31 of Figure 10 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S781.

[0184] In process step S82 of Figure 17, the control section 201, in response to the received user input, deletes the received identifier from the memory section 203. The description of process step S32 of Figure 10 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S82.

[0185] FIG. 18 is a flow diagram illustrating a fourth process performed by case 200 of FIG.

[0186] The process of Figure 18 is executed in response to determining in process step S51 of Figure 12 that this is not the first time that case 200 has been connected to aerosol generation device 100. That is, control section 201 determines that this is not the first time that case 200 has been connected to aerosol generation device 100, for example because case 200 has already stored an identifier for the aerosol generation device in memory section 203 and / or a wireless communication link has already been established with the aerosol generation device.

[0187] In process step S91 of FIG. 18, the control section 201 controls the Tx / Rx section 202 to receive an identifier of the aerosol generating device 100 from the aerosol generating device 100.

[0188] In process step S92 of Figure 18, the control section 201 determines whether the received identifier matches a first identifier stored in the memory section 203. The description of process step S42 of Figure 11 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S92.

[0189] If the received identifier does not match the first identifier stored in memory section 203, the process of Figure 18 proceeds to process step S96. If the received identifier matches the first identifier stored in memory section 203, the process of Figure 18 proceeds to optional process step S93.

[0190] In optional process step S93 of FIG. 18, the control section 201 controls the Tx / Rx section 202 to transmit an identifier of the case 200 to the aerosol generating device 100.

[0191] In optional process step S94 of FIG. 18, the control section 201 determines whether a signal has been received from the aerosol generating device 100 indicating that verification has failed.

[0192] If the control section 201 determines that a signal has been received from the aerosol generating device 100 indicating that the verification has failed, the process of FIG. 18 proceeds to process step S96.

[0193] If the control section 201 determines that no signal has been received from the aerosol generating device 100 indicating that the verification was unsuccessful (e.g., no signal has been received or a signal has been received indicating that the verification was successful), the process of Figure 18 proceeds to process step S95. Alternatively, in an embodiment that does not include optional process steps S93 and S94, the process of Figure 18 may proceed to process step S95 if the control section 201 determines that the received identifier matches the first identifier stored in the memory section 203 in process step S92.

[0194] In process step S95 of Figure 19, the control section 101 determines that the verification was successful. The description of process step S45 of Figure 11 applies mutatis mutandis to process step S95.

[0195] In process step S96 of Figure 18, the control section 201 determines that the verification has failed, i.e., one or both of the aerosol generating device 100 and the case 200 do not store the identifier of the other device in its memory section.

[0196] Optionally, if the validation fails, the control section 201 may be configured to output an alert via the output section 204 of the case 200. In this way, the user may be informed of the validation failure.

[0197] Additionally or alternatively, if the verification fails, the control section 201 may optionally be configured to disable charging of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0198] Although detailed embodiments have been described, they merely serve to provide a better understanding of the invention defined by the independent claims and should not be considered limiting.

[0199] Further embodiments are described below as E1 to E37.

[0200] E1. A method for an aerosol generating device, comprising: Identifying whether the aerosol generating device is connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time; When the aerosol generator is first connected to the aerosol generator case, Transmitting an identifier of the aerosol generator to the aerosol generator case; receiving an aerosol generating device case identifier from the aerosol generating device case; storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generating device; Establishing a wireless communication link with a paired aerosol generating device case; By doing so, pairing with the aerosol generator case is performed, A method comprising:

[0201] E2. Identifying whether the aerosol generating device is connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time determining whether an identifier for the aerosol generating device case is pre-stored in the memory section; and identifying, if an identifier of the aerosol generating device case has not been previously stored in the memory section, that the aerosol generating device is being connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time. E1 method.

[0202] E3. Method E1 or E2, where pairing is performed over a physical data connection.

[0203] E4. further comprising transmitting, via a wireless communication link, a command to the aerosol generating device case to output an alert; 2. The method of any preceding embodiment.

[0204] E5. The method of E4, wherein the instructions are transmitted in response to user input received via an input section of the aerosol generating device.

[0205] E6. Outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generating device; 2. The method of any preceding embodiment.

[0206] E7. The method of E6, wherein the alert is output in response to a command received from the aerosol generating device case via a wireless communication link.

[0207] E8. The method of E6, wherein the alert is output in response to determining that a wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device case has been severed.

[0208] E9. If the detection signal strength of the signal received from the aerosol generating device case is less than the threshold value, If a response signal is not received from the aerosol generating device case within a predetermined period of time after the aerosol generating device transmits a signal, and / or If no signal is received from the aerosol generating device case within a predetermined period of time after the previous signal is received, and determining that the wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device case has been disconnected. E8 method.

[0209] E10. The method of E6, wherein the alert is output in response to user input received via an input section of the aerosol generating device.

[0210] E11. Detecting a signal strength of a signal received from an aerosol generating device case; and adjusting the alert based on the detected signal strength. E10 method.

[0211] E12. Outputting alerts via the output section is outputting sound through a speaker unit; emitting light via a lighting unit; blinking or adjusting the brightness of the light emitted by the lighting unit; and outputting vibrations via the haptic feedback unit. Any of the methods E6 to E11.

[0212] E13. In response to a user input received via the input section of the aerosol generating device, deleting the received identifier from the memory section to unpair the aerosol generating device from the case; 2. The method of any preceding embodiment.

[0213] E14. The method of E13, wherein the received identifier is deleted from the memory section while the aerosol generating device is not connected to the aerosol generating device case.

[0214] E15. If the aerosol generator is not connected to the aerosol generator case for the first time, receiving an aerosol generating device case identifier from the aerosol generating device case; determining whether the received identifier matches a first identifier stored in the memory section; determining that the verification has failed if the received identifier does not match the first identifier stored in the memory section. 2. The method of any preceding embodiment.

[0215] E16. If the aerosol generator is not connected to the aerosol generator case for the first time, transmitting an identifier of the aerosol generating device to an aerosol generating device case; and identifying a failed verification in response to a signal received from the aerosol generating device case. E15 method.

[0216] E17.If verification fails, outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generating device; and disabling charging of the aerosol generating device. Method E15 or E16.

[0217] E18. A method for an aerosol generating device case, comprising: Identifying whether the aerosol generating device case is connected to the aerosol generating device for the first time; When the aerosol generator case is connected to the aerosol generator for the first time, Transmitting an identifier of the aerosol generating device case to the aerosol generating device; receiving an aerosol generating device identifier from the aerosol generating device; storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generator case; Establishing a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generating device; By this, pairing with the aerosol generator is performed, A method comprising:

[0218] E19. Identifying whether the aerosol generating device case is being connected to the aerosol generating device for the first time determining whether an identifier of the aerosol generating device is pre-stored in the memory section; and identifying when the aerosol generating device case is connected to the aerosol generating device for the first time if the aerosol generating device identifier has not been previously stored in the memory section. E18 method.

[0219] E20. Method E18 or E19, where pairing is performed via a physical data connection.

[0220] E21. further comprising transmitting, via a wireless communication link, instructions to the aerosol generating device to output an alert; Either method E18 to E20.

[0221] E22. The method of E21, wherein the instructions are transmitted in response to user input received via the input section of the aerosol generating device case.

[0222] E23. Further comprising: outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generating device case; Any of the methods from E18 to E22.

[0223] E24. The method of E23, wherein the alert is output in response to a command received from the aerosol generating device via a wireless communication link.

[0224] E25. The method of E23, wherein the alert is output in response to determining that a wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device has been severed.

[0225] E26. If the detection signal strength of the signal received from the aerosol generating device is less than the threshold value, If a response signal is not received from the aerosol generating device within a predetermined period of time after the aerosol generating device case transmits a signal, and / or If no signal is received from the aerosol generating device within a predetermined period of time after the previous signal is received, and determining that the wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device has been disconnected. E25 method.

[0226] E27. The method of E23, wherein the alert is output in response to a user input received via the input section of the aerosol generating device case.

[0227] E28. Detecting a signal strength of a signal received from an aerosol generating device; and adjusting the alert based on the detected signal strength. E27 method.

[0228] E29. Outputting an alert via the output section is outputting sound through a speaker unit; emitting light via a lighting unit; blinking or adjusting the brightness of the light emitted by the lighting unit; and outputting vibrations via the haptic feedback unit. Any of the methods E23 to E28.

[0229] E30. In response to a user input received via the input section of the aerosol generating device case, unpairing the aerosol generating device by deleting the received identifier from the memory section. Any of the methods from E18 to E29.

[0230] E31. The method of E30, wherein the received identifier is deleted from the memory section while the aerosol generating device case is not connected to the aerosol generating device.

[0231] E32. If the aerosol generator case is not connected to the aerosol generator for the first time, receiving an aerosol generating device identifier from the aerosol generating device; determining whether the received identifier matches a first identifier stored in the memory section; determining that the verification has failed if the received identifier does not match the first identifier stored in the memory section. Any of the methods E18 to E31.

[0232] E33. If the aerosol generator case is not connected to the aerosol generator for the first time, transmitting an identifier of the aerosol generating device case to the aerosol generating device; and identifying a failed verification in response to a signal received from the aerosol generating device. E32 method.

[0233] E34.If verification fails, outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generator case; and disabling charging of the aerosol generating device. Method E32 or E33.

[0234] E35. An aerosol generating device, Send / Receive section, A memory section, A control section configured to control the transmit / receive section and the memory section to execute any one of the methods E1 to E17. Aerosol generator.

[0235] E36. An aerosol generating device case, Send / Receive section, A memory section, A control section configured to control the transmit / receive section and the memory section to execute any one of the methods of E18 to E34; Aerosol generator case.

[0236] E37. A system comprising an aerosol generator according to E35 and an aerosol generator case according to E36.

[0237] E38. A method for an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating device case, comprising: Identifying whether the aerosol generating device is connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time; pairing the aerosol generating device with the aerosol generating device case by exchanging an identifier of the aerosol generating device with an identifier of the aerosol generating device case when the aerosol generating device is connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time; establishing a wireless communication link between the paired aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device case; A method comprising: outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generating device and / or an output section of the aerosol generating device case in response to determining that a wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device case has been disconnected or in response to user input.

[0238] E39. In response to a user input received on the aerosol generating device, outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generating device case. E38 method.

Claims

1. A method for an aerosol generating device, comprising: Identifying whether the aerosol generating device is being connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time; If the aerosol generating device is being connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time, Transmitting an identifier of the aerosol generating device to the aerosol generating device case; Receiving an identifier of the aerosol generating device case from the aerosol generating device case; Storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generating device; Establishing a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generating device case, thereby pairing with the aerosol generating device case. A method comprising the above.

2. Identifying whether the aerosol generating device is being connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time includes: Identifying whether the identifier of the aerosol generating device case is pre-stored in the memory section; and If the identifier of the aerosol generating device case is not pre-stored in the memory section, identifying that the aerosol generating device is being connected to the aerosol generating device case for the first time, The method according to claim 1.

3. Further comprising transmitting, via the wireless communication link, a command to output an alert to the aerosol generating device case, wherein the command is transmitted in response to a user input received via an input section of the aerosol generating device. The method according to claim 1.

4. Further comprising outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generating device. The method according to claim 1.

5. The alert is a command received from the aerosol generator case via the wireless communication link, and a user input received via an input section of the aerosol generator, and is output in response to one of The method according to claim 4.

6. The alert is output in response to the identification that the wireless communication link with the aerosol generator case has been disconnected. The method according to claim 4.

7. When the detected signal strength of the signal received from the aerosol generator case is less than a threshold value, when no response signal has been received from the aerosol generator case within a predetermined period after transmission of a signal by the aerosol generator, and / or when no signal has been received from the aerosol generator case within a predetermined period after the previous signal reception, further including identifying that the wireless communication link with the aerosol generator case has been disconnected. The method according to claim 6.

8. detecting a signal strength of a signal received from the aerosol generator case, and adjusting the alert based on the detected signal strength. The method according to claim 5.

9. further including un-pairing with the aerosol generator case by deleting the received identifier from the memory section in response to a user input received via an input section of the aerosol generator. The method according to claim 1.

10. When the aerosol generator has not been newly connected to the aerosol generator case, Receiving an identifier of the aerosol generator case from the aerosol generator case; Identifying whether the received identifier matches a first identifier stored in the memory section; Further comprising, when the received identifier does not match the first identifier stored in the memory section, identifying that the verification has failed. The method according to claim 1.

11. When the aerosol generator has not been newly connected to the aerosol generator case; Transmitting the identifier of the aerosol generator to the aerosol generator case; Further comprising identifying that the verification has failed in response to a signal received from the aerosol generator case. The method according to claim 10.

12. A method for an aerosol generator case, comprising: Identifying whether the aerosol generator case is newly connected to an aerosol generator; When the aerosol generator case is newly connected to the aerosol generator; Transmitting an identifier of the aerosol generator case to the aerosol generator; Receiving an identifier of the aerosol generator from the aerosol generator; Storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generator case; Establishing a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generator; Thereby performing pairing with the aerosol generator. A method comprising:

13. An aerosol generator, comprising: A transmission / reception section; A memory section; A control section configured to control the transmission / reception section and the memory section to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11; An aerosol generating device comprising the same.

14. An aerosol generating device case, A transmission / reception section, A memory section, A control section configured to control the transmission / reception section and the memory section to execute the method according to claim 12; An aerosol generating device case comprising the same.

15. A system comprising the aerosol generating device according to claim 13 and the aerosol generating device case according to claim 14.

16. A method for an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating device case, Identifying whether the aerosol generating device is first connected to the aerosol generating device case; When the aerosol generating device is first connected to the aerosol generating device case, pairing the aerosol generating device with the aerosol generating device case by exchanging an identifier of the aerosol generating device and an identifier of the aerosol generating device case; Establishing a wireless communication link between the paired aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device case, and Outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generating device and / or an output section of the aerosol generating device case in response to an identification that the wireless communication link with the aerosol generating device case has been disconnected or in response to a user input.

17. Further comprising outputting an alert via the output section of the aerosol generating device case in response to a user input received on the aerosol generating device. The method according to claim 16.

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