Aerosol delivery system with charging unit

Abstract

An aerosol delivery system (100) is provided, comprising: an aerosol delivery device comprising a first controller and a first electrical energy storage device; and a charging unit (101) for charging the aerosol delivery device, the charging unit comprising a second controller and a second electrical energy storage device, wherein either the first controller and / or the second controller is configured to (i) determine whether the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit, and (ii) when it is determined that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit, determine a first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device before starting a first use session and / or determine a second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device before starting the first use session.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol delivery system and a method of operating an aerosol delivery system. [Background technology]

[0002] Smoking articles, such as cigarettes and cigars, burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products include so-called "heat-not-burn" products, or tobacco heating devices or products, which release compounds by heating materials without burning them. The materials may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] Aerosol delivery systems covering the above-mentioned devices or products are known. A typical system uses a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, which is then inhaled by the user. In many cases, the medium used must be replaced or changed to provide a different aerosol for inhalation. It is known to use an induction heating system as a heater for generating an aerosol from a suitable medium. An induction heating system generally consists of a magnetic field generating device for generating a fluctuating magnetic field and a susceptor or heating material that can be heated by immersing the fluctuating magnetic field in the suitable medium to heat it. Conventional aerosol delivery devices include a cylindrical heating chamber into which a rod-shaped consumable is inserted.

[0004] It is known to provide an aerosol delivery system that includes an aerosol delivery device and a charging unit.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide an improved aerosol delivery system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect, there is provided an aerosol delivery system comprising: an aerosol delivery device comprising a first controller and a first electrical energy storage device; a charging unit for charging the aerosol delivery device, the charging unit including a second controller and a second electrical energy storage device; Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining whether the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; (ii) when it is determined that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; Determining a first capacity of a first electrical energy storage device before starting a first use session; and / or Determining a second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device prior to commencing the first use session. An aerosol delivery system is provided that is configured to:

[0007] According to various embodiments, if the aerosol delivery device is determined to be electrically connected to the charging unit, but the aerosol delivery device is disconnected from the charging unit after a use session has been initiated, it may be desirable to check the battery capacity of the aerosol delivery device to ensure that the battery has sufficient capacity to continue powering the aerosol delivery device for the entire duration of the use session. Thus, for example, the controller of the charging unit may verify that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit. It may be determined that the battery of the charging unit has sufficient capacity to allow the aerosol delivery device to initiate a use session powered by the battery of the charging unit. However, the controller of the charging unit may check the battery capacity of the aerosol delivery device before initiating the use session.

[0008] It will therefore be appreciated that by first connecting the aerosol delivery device to a charging unit and checking the battery capacity of the aerosol delivery device before starting a usage session powered by the charging unit's battery, it is possible to provide an aerosol delivery system that allows for a seamless transition if the aerosol delivery device is disconnected from the charging unit mid-session.

[0009] Optionally, the second controller may determine that the aerosol delivery device is not electrically connected to the charging unit, in which case the second controller is further configured to charge the second electrical energy storage device by the external power source when the charging unit is connected to the external power source.

[0010] Optionally, the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that it is desirable to initiate a first use session; (ii) determining whether the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is sufficient to be able to power the aerosol delivery device throughout an intended first use session; and (iii) optionally, commencing the first use session when the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is determined to be sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session. The device is configured to:

[0011] Optionally, the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that it is desirable to initiate a first use session; (ii) determining whether a second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session; and (iii) commencing the first use session when the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is determined to be sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session. The device is configured to:

[0012] Optionally, the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that it is desirable to initiate a first use session; (ii) determining whether a combination of the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device and the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session; and (iii) optionally, commencing the first use session when it is determined that a combination of the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device and the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session. The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0013] According to various embodiments, the first controller and / or the second controller may initiate the first use session when it determines that either the aerosol delivery device or the charging unit's battery has sufficient energy to power the aerosol delivery device for the entire intended first use session. Other embodiments are contemplated in which the first controller and / or the second controller may initiate the first use session when it determines that the aerosol delivery device's battery in combination with the charging unit's battery has sufficient energy to power the aerosol delivery device for the entire intended first use session.

[0014] According to various embodiments, if the first controller and / or the second controller determines that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit, the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining a first capacity of a first electrical storage device and then determining a second capacity of a second electrical storage device; (ii) determining a second capacity of the second electrical storage device and then determining a first capacity of the first electrical storage device; or (iii) determining a first capacity of the first storage device and substantially simultaneously determining a second capacity of the second electrical storage device. The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0015] Optionally, either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining whether the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; (ii) determining that the charging unit is connected to an external power source; and (iii) charging the first electrical energy storage device by an external power source; The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0016] Optionally, either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) if the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is below a first threshold; and / or (ii) if the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is greater than a second threshold; The first electrical energy storage device may be configured to be charged by an external power source.

[0017] Optionally, either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to a charging unit; (ii) determining that the charging unit is connected to an external power source; and (iii) charging the second electrical energy storage device by an external power source; The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0018] Optionally, either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) if the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is below a second threshold; and / or (ii) if the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is greater than a first threshold; The second electrical energy storage device may be configured to be charged by an external power source.

[0019] Optionally, either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to a charging unit; (ii) determining that the charging unit is not connected to an external power source; and (iii) charging the first electrical energy storage device by the second electrical energy storage device. The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0020] Optionally, either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) if the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is below a first threshold; and / or (ii) if the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is greater than a second threshold; The first electrical energy storage device may be configured to be charged by the second electrical energy storage device.

[0021] The first and second controllers may be configured to prioritize the use of the larger electrical storage device of the charging unit, thereby extending the life of the electrical storage device of the aerosol delivery device, i.e., keeping the total number of cycles of the first electrical storage device to a minimum.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is determined to be sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device for the entire intended first use session, and the use session begins when the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit at the start of the session, but can then be removed from the charging unit mid-session, allowing the use session to continue until completion. This provides a seamless experience for the user, i.e., the session is not interrupted if the user removes the aerosol delivery device from the charging unit mid-session.

[0023] Optionally, the first threshold is (i)<20mAh, (ii) 20-40mAh; (iii) 40-60mAh, (iv) 60-80mAh, (v) 80~100mAh, (vi) 100-120mAh, (vii) 120~140mAh, (viii) 140~160mAh, (ix) 160-180mAh, or (x) may be within the range of 180 to 200 mAh.

[0024] Optionally, the second threshold is: (i)<200mAh, (ii) 200~400mAh, (iii) 400~600mAh, (iv) 600-800mAh, (v) 800~1000mAh, (vi) 1000~1200mAh, (vii) 1200~1400mAh, (viii) 1400~1600mAh, (ix) 1600-1800mAh, or (x) It may be in the range of 1800 to 2000 mAh.

[0025] Optionally, either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that the charging unit is connected to an external power source; (ii) determining that it is desirable to initiate a first use session; (iii) optionally disabling electrical charging of the aerosol delivery device by an external power source; and (iv) optionally disabling electrical charging of the charging unit from an external power source; The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0026] Optionally, the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) Disabling electrical charging of the aerosol delivery device from an external power source substantially simultaneously with disabling electrical charging of the charging unit from an external power source. (ii) disabling electrical charging of the aerosol delivery device by the external power source, and then disabling electrical charging of the charging unit by the external power source after a time delay; or (iii) disabling electrical charging of the charging unit by the external power source, and then disabling electrical charging of the aerosol delivery device by the external power source after a time delay. The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0027] Optionally, the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that a first use session has begun; (ii) determining that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; and (iii) at least partially powering the aerosol delivery device with a second electrical storage device to continue the first use session. The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0028] Optionally, the first controller: (i) determining that a first use session has begun; (ii) determining that the aerosol delivery device has been electrically disconnected from the charging unit during the first use session; and (iii) energizing the aerosol delivery device with a first electrical storage device to continue the first use session. The control unit 100 may be configured to perform the following.

[0029] Optionally, the first electrical energy storage device comprises: (i) a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery; or (ii) Lithium titanate or lithium titanium oxide (LTO) batteries It has one of the following.

[0030] Optionally, the first electrical energy storage comprises: (i)<50mAh, (ii) 50~100mAh, (iii) 100-150mAh, or (iv) 150-200mAh It has a capacity in the range of

[0031] Optionally, the second electrical energy storage device comprises: (i) Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2) batteries; (ii) Lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) batteries; (iii) a lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNixMnyCOzO2) battery; or (iv) Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (LiNiCoAlO2) battery Equipped with.

[0032] Optionally, the second electrical energy storage device comprises: (i) 1000~1100mAh, (ii) 1100-1200mAh, (iii) 1100-1200mAh, (iv) 1200~1300mAh, (v) 1300~1400mAh, (vi) 1400~1500mAh, (vii) 1500 to 2000 mAh, or (viii)>2000mAh It has a capacity in the range of

[0033] Optionally, the first electrical energy storage device has a capacitance C1 and the second electrical energy storage device has a capacitance C2, and the ratio C2 / C1 is (i)<2, (ii) 2-3, (iii) 3-4, (iv) 4-5, (v) 5-6, (vi) 6-7, (vii) 7-8, (viii) 8-9, (ix) 9-10, (x)10~11, (xi)11-12, (xii)12-13, (xiii)13-14, (xiv)14-15, (xv) 15 to 20, or (xvi)>20 is within the range.

[0034] According to one aspect, there is provided a method of operating an aerosol delivery system, comprising: providing an aerosol delivery device comprising a first electrical energy storage device and a charging unit for charging the aerosol delivery device, the charging unit comprising a second electrical energy storage device; determining whether the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to a charging unit; determining a first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device before initiating the first use session, and / or determining a second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device before initiating the first use session; A method of operation is provided, including:

[0035] The first controller and the second controller may operate in a master / slave relationship. According to various embodiments, the controller of the charging unit may operate as the master controller, and the controller of the aerosol delivery device may operate as the slave controller. The controller (particularly the controller of the charging unit) may be configured to prioritize use of the battery of the charging unit whenever possible to power the aerosol delivery device. According to various embodiments, the battery of the charging unit may have a maximum capacity greater than the maximum capacity of the battery of the aerosol delivery device. The battery of the charging unit may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) battery, a lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNi x Mn y CO zThe aerosol delivery device battery may include a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery or a lithium titanate or lithium titanium oxide (LTO) battery. The aerosol delivery device battery may have a capacity of ≦200 mAh, and the charging unit battery may have a capacity of ≧1000 mAh. Thus, the charging unit battery may have at least five times the capacity of the aerosol delivery device battery. Furthermore, it may be possible to recharge the aerosol delivery device battery relatively few times before the battery performance begins to deteriorate. Therefore, it may be desirable to limit the number of times the aerosol delivery device battery is recharged. According to various embodiments by following the approaches discussed above, the life of the aerosol delivery device battery can be extended as much as possible; for example, the total number of recharge cycles experienced by the aerosol delivery device battery can be kept to a minimum to extend the performance of the aerosol delivery device.

[0036] The first controller may comprise a first microcontroller or a first microprocessor.

[0037] The second controller may comprise a second microcontroller or a second microprocessor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0038] Various embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol delivery system including an aerosol delivery device located within a charging unit. [Figure 2] 1 is a flowchart illustrating various modes of operation of the aerosol delivery device. [Figure 3] 4 is a flow chart illustrating various modes of operation of the charging unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustion" aerosol delivery system is one in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or components of those materials) of the aerosol delivery system are not combusted or burned to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0040] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0041] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a vaporization device or an electronic cigarette, also known as an electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0042] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. One example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0043] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system that generates aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in solid, liquid, or gel form and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0044] Typically, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include a non-combustion aerosol delivery device and a consumable item for use with the non-combustion aerosol delivery device.

[0045] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include aerosol-generating materials and are configured for use with non-combustion aerosol delivery devices. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout this disclosure.

[0046] In some embodiments, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, such as a non-combustion aerosol delivery device, can include a power source and a controller. The power source can be, for example, an electrical power source or a heat-generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat-generating power source includes a carbon substrate that can be energized to deliver power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or a heat-transfer material proximate the heat-generating power source.

[0047] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include an area for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0048] In some embodiments, consumables for use with non-combustion aerosol delivery devices may include an aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage region, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating region, a housing, a packaging material, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0049] An aerosol-forming material is a material that can generate an aerosol when, for example, heated, irradiated, or otherwise energized. The aerosol-forming material may be in solid, liquid, or semi-solid (such as a gel) form, which may or may not contain, for example, an active agent and / or flavoring.

[0050] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, an active agent and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0051] The aerosol-generating material may include or be an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder, such as a gelling agent, with a solvent, such as water, an aerosol-forming agent, and one or more other ingredients, such as an active agent, to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to volatilize at least a portion of the solvent to form the aerosol-generating film. The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, or 90% by weight of the solvent. The aerosol-generating film may be a continuous film or a discontinuous film, such as a construction of individual portions of film on a substrate. The aerosol-generating film may be substantially free of tobacco.

[0052] The aerosol-generating film may include or be a sheet that can optionally be shredded to form shredded sheets.

[0053] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active agents and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0054] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to thermal energy to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, elevated pressure, or electrostatic energy.

[0055] A consumable is an article containing or consisting of an aerosol-generating material, some or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a packaging material, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. A consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that generates heat upon use to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater may include, for example, a combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0056] The susceptor is a heating material that can be heated by penetration by a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor can be a conductive material, such that penetration of the conductive material by the varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material can be a magnetic material, such that penetration of the magnetic material by the varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor can be both conductive and magnetic, such that the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. An aerosol delivery device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0057] The non-combustion aerosol delivery system may comprise a modular assembly that includes both a reusable aerosol delivery device and a replaceable aerosol product article. In some implementations, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device may comprise a power source and a controller (i.e., control circuitry). The power source may comprise an electrical source, such as, for example, a battery or a rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device may also comprise an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations, the aerosol product article may comprise, in part or entirely, the aerosol generating component.

[0058] Induction heating is a process in which a conductive object, called a susceptor, is heated by penetrating a varying magnetic field through the object. This process is explained by Faraday's law of induction and Ohm's law. An induction heater may include an electromagnet and a device for passing a varying current, such as an alternating current, through the electromagnet. When the electromagnet and the object to be heated are properly positioned relative to one another, such that the resulting varying magnetic field produced by the electromagnet penetrates the object, one or more eddy currents are generated within the object. The object has a resistance to the flow of current, and when such eddy currents are generated within the object, their flow against the object's electrical resistance heats the object. This process is called Joule heating, ohmic heating, or resistive heating.

[0059] Magnetic hysteresis heating is a process by which an object made of a magnetic material is heated by penetrating a changing magnetic field into the object. Magnetic materials can be thought of as containing many atomic-scale magnets, or magnetic dipoles. When a magnetic field penetrates such a material, the magnetic dipoles align with the field. Thus, when a changing magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field generated by an electromagnet, penetrates a magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes with the applied changing magnetic field. Such magnetic dipole reorientation causes the generation of heat within the magnetic material.

[0060] When an object is both conductive and magnetic, a fluctuating magnetic field penetrating the object can induce both Joule heating and magnetic hysteresis heating within the object. Furthermore, the use of magnetic materials can strengthen the magnetic field, which can enhance Joule heating.

[0061] Various embodiments will now be described in more detail.

[0062] 1 illustrates an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol delivery device 100, which is shown positioned within a cavity of a charging unit 101. Aerosol delivery device 100 is configured to generate aerosol from an aerosol production item or consumable (not shown) that may be inserted into aerosol delivery device 100 during use.

[0063] The aerosol delivery device 100 may comprise an elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol delivery device 100 has a proximal end that is closest to a user (e.g., the user's mouth) when used by the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol delivery device 100. The aerosol delivery device 100 further comprises a distal end that is furthest from the user when in use. The proximal end may also be referred to as the mouth end. Thus, the aerosol delivery device 100 also defines a proximal direction that is oriented toward the user when in use, i.e., from the distal end to the proximal end. Furthermore, the aerosol delivery device 100 also defines a distal direction that is oriented away from the user when in use, i.e., from the proximal end to the distal end.

[0064] Aerosol delivery device 100 may be removably inserted into charging unit 101 to be charged. Charging unit 101 includes a cavity for receiving aerosol delivery device 100. Aerosol delivery device 100 may be inserted into the cavity through an opening. The cavity may also include a longitudinal opening. A portion of aerosol delivery device 100 may include a first side. One or more user-operable control elements, such as button 106, that can be used to operate aerosol delivery device 100 may be provided on the first side of aerosol delivery device 100. The first side of aerosol delivery device 100 may be received within the longitudinal opening provided in charging unit 101.

[0065] The cavity in charging unit 101 may have a cross-sectional profile that allows aerosol delivery device 100 to be inserted into charging unit 101 in only a single orientation. The outer profile of aerosol delivery device 100 may include an arcuate portion and a straight portion. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity provided within charging unit 101 may also include similar arcuate and straight portions. The straight portion of the cross-sectional profile of the cavity may correspond to the longitudinal opening.

[0066] Aerosol delivery device 100 includes an opening that leads into a heating chamber. A rod-shaped aerosol product article containing an aerosol-generating material may be inserted through the opening and held within the heating chamber of aerosol delivery device 100. The aerosol product article may be heated by the heating element, resulting in the generation of an aerosol or other inhalable medium that may then be inhaled by a user of aerosol delivery device 100.

[0067] Charging unit 101 may include a slidable lid 103. When aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101 to be recharged, slidable lid 103 may be closed to cover an opening into aerosol delivery device 100. Charging unit 101 may include a user interface, such as a display 108.

[0068] The charging unit 101 includes a controller (not shown) configured to control various aspects of the charging unit 101. In particular, the controller located within the charging unit 101 may be configured to control an electrical energy storage device of the charging unit 101. The electrical energy storage device may comprise, for example, a battery. The controller located within the charging unit 101 may include a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, or a microcontroller (MCU).

[0069] The battery of the charging unit 101 may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) battery, a lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNi x Mn y CO z The battery may include a lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (LiNiCoAlO2) battery, or a lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (LiNiCoAlO2) battery. The battery may have a capacity of ≧1000 mAh.

[0070] Aerosol delivery device 100 may also include a controller (not shown) configured to control various aspects of aerosol delivery device 100. In particular, a controller located within aerosol delivery device 100 may be configured to control the electrical energy source of aerosol delivery device 100. The controller may include a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, or a microcontroller (MCU). The electrical energy storage device may include a battery. For example, the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 may include a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery or a lithium titanate or lithium titanium oxide (LTO) battery. The battery may have a capacity of ≦200 mAh.

[0071] The respective controllers of the charging unit 101 and the aerosol delivery device 100 may be configured to communicate with each other when the aerosol delivery device 100 is electrically connected to the charging unit 101, i.e., when the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted or docked within the charging unit 101.

[0072] It is also contemplated that the respective controllers may be configured to wirelessly communicate with each other when aerosol delivery device 100 is away from charging unit 101. Wireless communication may be enabled by Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), Bluetooth, any other suitable Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN), or Wireless Sensor Actor Network (WSAN) protocol.

[0073] In a situation where the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into and secured to the charging unit 101, resulting in an electrical connection between the aerosol delivery device 100 and the charging unit 101, the controller of the charging unit 101 (which may hereinafter be referred to as the “second” controller) may be configured to operate as a master controller. In contrast, the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 (which may hereinafter be referred to as the “first” controller) may be configured to operate as a slave controller. According to such an embodiment, various decisions that could potentially be made by either the first controller or the second controller may be made preferentially by the second controller acting as the master controller. For example, according to one embodiment, an operating mode that includes supplying electrical energy from the battery of the charging unit 101 to the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be made after it is determined that the aerosol delivery device 100 has been inserted into the charging unit 101 during a use session. According to one embodiment, the decision may be made by the second controller acting as the master controller.

[0074] However, other embodiments are contemplated in which the determination that aerosol delivery device 100 has been inserted into charging unit 101 during a use session may be made by a first controller located within aerosol delivery device 100. For example, further embodiments are contemplated in which the determination may be made first by a second controller, and then that determination may be confirmed or checked by the first controller (or vice versa).

[0075] According to one embodiment, when a user initiates a session, electrical energy may be supplied from a battery in the charging unit 101 to heat one or more heating elements located within the aerosol delivery device 100, resulting in the generation of an aerosol or other inhalable medium, which may then be inhaled by the user of the aerosol delivery device 100.

[0076] In situations where aerosol delivery device 100 is remote or separate from charging unit 101, each of the respective controllers of aerosol delivery device 100 and charging unit 101 may operate as a master controller. In this situation, when a session is initiated by a user, the battery of the aerosol delivery device provides energy to heat the heating element, which may result in the generation of an aerosol or other inhalable medium, which may then be inhaled by the user of aerosol delivery device 100.

[0077] It will be appreciated that charging unit 101 and aerosol delivery device 100 can move in and out of a master / slave relationship whenever the aerosol delivery device is inserted into or removed from charging unit 101 .

[0078] Details of the operating modes of aerosol delivery device 100 and charging unit 101 during use are described in more detail herein.

[0079] Figure 2 shows a flow chart illustrating a mode of operation of aerosol delivery device 100. In particular, Figure 2 shows an embodiment of the controller logic used by the controller of aerosol delivery device 100.

[0080] The controller of aerosol delivery device 100 may initially operate in idle state 200 until an operational command is received by the controller of aerosol delivery device 100. The operational command may occur when a user activates one or more of buttons 106 on aerosol delivery device 100, for example, to begin a use session.

[0081] When an operational command is received by the controller of aerosol delivery device 100, the controller enters a first state 210, which corresponds to a situation where aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101 and a session has not yet started. In first state 210 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101 and a session has not yet started), the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 first monitors the battery level of aerosol delivery device 100 to check the voltage and / or power level of the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 to determine whether there is enough charge in the battery to start (but not necessarily complete) a session that may be initiated by a user.

[0082] The battery of aerosol delivery device 100 may be considered fully charged if it meets acceptable threshold criteria. According to various embodiments, the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 may include either a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery or a lithium titanate or lithium titanium oxide (LTO) battery. The battery of aerosol delivery device 100 may have a capacity within the following ranges when fully charged: (i) <50 mAh, (ii) 50-100 mAh, (iii) 100-150 mAh, or (iv) 150-200 mAh. According to various embodiments, the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be considered sufficiently charged to at least begin a usage session if the determined current capacity of the battery exceeds a threshold within the following ranges: (i) <20 mAh, (ii) 20-40 mAh, (iii) 40-60 mAh, (iv) 60-80 mAh, (v) 80-100 mAh, (vi) 100-120 mAh, (vii) 120-140 mAh, (viii) 140-160 mAh, (ix) 160-180 mAh, or (x) 180-200 mAh.

[0083] If, after a session is initiated by a user, it is determined that the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 is sufficiently charged and that aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101, the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 enters third state 230, which corresponds to a situation in which aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101 but a session has nevertheless been initiated. If aerosol delivery device 101 is already inserted into charging unit 101 or if aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101 while the controller is in first state 210 (aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101 and a session has not yet been initiated), the controller of aerosol delivery device may enter second state 220, which corresponds to a situation in which aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101 but a session has not yet been initiated.

[0084] In third state 230 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101, but a session has nevertheless been initiated), the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 provides energy to heat the heating element, which may result in the generation of an aerosol or other inhalable medium, which may then be inhaled by a user of aerosol delivery device 100. In third state 230 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101, but a session has nevertheless been initiated), the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 may record the battery level or current battery capacity of aerosol delivery device 100.

[0085] When the session ends (e.g., the session cycle ends, the user finishes, or the battery is no longer full), the controller may return to first state 210 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101 and a session has not yet started). If aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101 after a session has started, the controller may enter fourth state 240, which corresponds to a situation where aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101 and a use session is started.

[0086] In second state 220 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101, but a use session has not yet begun), either the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 and / or the controller of charging unit 101 may check the battery level of aerosol delivery device 100 to determine whether the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 is sufficiently charged to support a use session. If it is determined that the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 is sufficiently charged to support a use session, the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 may return to fourth state 240 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101 and a use session has begun).

[0087] According to various embodiments, the controller of the charging unit 101 is configured to determine that the aerosol delivery device 100 is electrically connected to the charging unit 101, and when the aerosol delivery device 100 is determined to be electrically connected to the charging unit 101, the controller of the charging unit 101 may determine a first capacity of the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 before initiating a first use session. It is also contemplated that the controller of the charging unit 101 may determine a second capacity of the battery of the charging unit 101 before initiating a first use session.

[0088] For example, according to various embodiments, the aerosol delivery device 100 may be electrically connected to the charging unit 101, but if the aerosol delivery device 100 is disconnected from the charging unit 101 after a use session has begun, it may be desirable to check the battery capacity of the aerosol delivery device 100 to ensure that the battery has sufficient capacity to continue to power the aerosol delivery device 100 for the entire duration of the use session.

[0089] As a result, the user can enjoy a seamless experience in which a usage session once started with the aerosol delivery device 100 connected to the charging unit 101 continues until completion, either with the aerosol delivery device 100 still connected to the charging unit 101 throughout the usage session, or alternatively, if the aerosol delivery device 100 is disconnected from the charging unit 101 midway through the session.

[0090] For example, according to various embodiments, the controller of the charging unit 101 may check that the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 has sufficient capacity to support a complete use session before allowing the use session to begin, despite the fact that the aerosol delivery device 100 is electrically connected to the charging unit 101. Otherwise, a use session may begin with the expectation that the aerosol delivery device 100 will be powered by the battery of the charging unit 101, but the aerosol delivery device 100 may then be disconnected from the charging unit 101 in the middle of the session, and the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be uneven or not fully charged and therefore unable to support the remainder of the session. This would result in a negative experience for the user, as the aerosol delivery device 100 stopped working in the middle of the session. An approach according to various embodiments ensures that this does not happen.

[0091] If the aerosol delivery device 100 is removed from the charging unit 101 while in the second state 220 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but the session has not yet started), the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 may enter the first state 210 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into the charging unit 101 and the session has not yet started).

[0092] The controller of aerosol delivery device 100 may be configured to remain in fourth state 240 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101 and a use session is initiated) while a use session is occurring. When the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 is in fourth state 240, aerosol delivery device 100 is located within charging unit 100, aerosol delivery device 100 is electrically connected to charging unit 100, and a use session is occurring. When the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 is in fourth state 240, the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 may be configured to periodically record the battery level or current capacity of the battery of aerosol delivery device 100. In a fourth state 240 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 and a use session is initiated), the battery of the charging unit 101 may be used to provide energy to heat the heating element, resulting in the generation of an aerosol or other inhalable medium, which may then be inhaled by a user of the aerosol delivery device 100.

[0093] When the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 is in the fourth state 240 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 and a use session is initiated) and the session ends (e.g., the session cycle ends, the user ends the session, or the battery level of either the aerosol delivery device 100 and / or the charging unit 101 is no longer sufficient to continue executing the use session) and the aerosol delivery device 100 is not removed from the charging unit 101, the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be configured to enter the second state 220 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but a use session is not being executed). When the aerosol delivery device 100 is in the second state 220 (i.e., when the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but no session is running), and then the aerosol delivery device 100 is removed from the charging unit 101, the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be configured to enter the first state 210 (i.e., when the aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into the charging unit 101 and no session is running).

[0094] According to various embodiments, if the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 is in the fourth state 240 and the aerosol delivery device 100 is removed from the charging unit 101 by the user midway through a session, the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 may then be configured to enter the third state 230 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into the charging unit 101, but the session has nevertheless begun), and the usage session may be configured to continue.

[0095] In particular, according to various embodiments, before a use session begins, a determination may be made, for example, by a controller of charging unit 101, of the capacity of a battery in aerosol delivery device 100. For example, the controller of charging unit 101 may have determined that the capacity of a battery in aerosol delivery device 100 has exceeded a threshold that would allow aerosol delivery device 100 to complete a use session if aerosol delivery device 100 were to be electrically disconnected from charging unit 101 midway through the session.

[0096] 3 is a flow diagram illustrating various modes of operation of the controller of charging unit 101. More specifically, the flow diagram shown in FIG.

[0097] The controller of the charging unit 101 may start in a fifth (idle) state 250 until an operational command is received by the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 and / or the charging unit 101. The operational command can be, for example, when a charging cable is inserted into the charging unit 101 or when a user activates one or more of the buttons 106 on the aerosol delivery device 106 or a button on the charging unit 101.

[0098] When the operation command is received by the controller of the charging unit 101, the controller of the charging unit 101 may be configured to enter a sixth state 260, which corresponds to a situation where the aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into the charging unit 101 and a use session has not been initiated. In the sixth state 260 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into the charging unit 101 and a use session has not been initiated), the controller of the charging unit 101 may be configured to check the battery level or current capacity of the charging unit 101 and whether a charging cable (e.g., a USB cable) that can be connected to an external power source is inserted into the charging unit 101.

[0099] If a charging cable is inserted into charging unit 101 while the controller of charging unit 101 is in sixth state 260 (i.e., charging unit 101 is not electrically connected to aerosol delivery device 100 and a use session has not been initiated), the battery of charging unit 101 may be configured to be charged by an external power source. If aerosol delivery device 100 is already inserted into charging unit 101 when the operating command is received, or if aerosol delivery device 100 is subsequently inserted into charging unit 101 while the controller of charging unit 101 is in sixth state 260 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101 and a use session has not been initiated), the controller of charging unit 101 may be configured to enter seventh state 270 (i.e., aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101, but a use session has not yet been initiated). According to various embodiments, the seventh state 270 relates to a situation in which the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 and is electrically connected to the charging unit 101, but a usage session has not yet begun.

[0100] In the seventh state 270 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but a use session has not yet begun), the controller of the charging unit 101 may be configured to again check whether the aerosol delivery device 100 is still connected to the charging unit 101. If it is determined that the aerosol delivery device 100 has been removed from the charging unit 101, or if it is determined that the aerosol delivery device 100 has subsequently been removed from the charging unit 101 while in the seventh state 270 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but a use session has not yet begun), the controller of the charging unit 101 may return to the sixth state 260 (i.e., the charging unit 101 is not electrically connected to the aerosol delivery device and a use session has not yet begun).

[0101] In a seventh state 270 when the aerosol delivery device 100 is connected to the charging unit 101 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but a use session has not yet begun), the controller of the charging unit 101 may be configured to check the battery energy or current capacity of the battery in the charging unit 101 and / or the battery in the aerosol delivery device 100. If, with the charging cable plugged in, it is determined that the battery in the aerosol delivery device 100 is below an acceptable threshold criterion, the battery in the aerosol delivery device 100 may be recharged via the charging cable. For example, the battery in the aerosol delivery device 100 may have a capacity within the range of (i) <50 mAh, (ii) 50-100 mAh, (iii) 100-150 mAh, or (iv) 150-200 mAh when fully charged. According to various embodiments, the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be deemed to be below an acceptable threshold standard and therefore in need of recharging if the determined current capacity of the battery is determined to be within the following ranges: (i) <20 mAh, (ii) 20-40 mAh, (iii) 40-60 mAh, (iv) 60-80 mAh, (v) 80-100 mAh, (vi) 100-120 mAh, (vii) 120-140 mAh, (viii) 140-160 mAh, (ix) 160-180 mAh, or (x) 180-200 mAh.

[0102] In situations where the battery of the charging unit 101 is also determined to be below the acceptable threshold, the battery of the charging unit 101 may also be recharged via the charging cable. The battery of the charging unit 101 may be charged simultaneously with the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100. According to various embodiments, power from an external power source may be supplied in a pulsed manner to either the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 and / or the battery of the charging unit 100. According to one embodiment, charging pulses may be supplied alternately between the aerosol delivery device 100 and the charging unit 101, such that at any particular time, either the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 is being charged by the external power source or, alternatively, the battery of the charging unit 101 is being charged by the external power source, such that the batteries of the aerosol delivery device 100 and the charging unit 101 are not being charged simultaneously. Embodiments are contemplated in which the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 has a lower capacity than the battery of the charging unit 101, thereby allowing the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 to be fully recharged before the battery of the charging unit 101 is fully recharged.

[0103] According to various embodiments, the battery (or more generally, the electrical energy storage device) of the charging unit 101 may be: (i) a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO) battery; (ii) a lithium manganese oxide (LiMnO) battery; or (iii) a lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNi x Mn y CO z02) battery, or (iv) a Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (LiNiCoAlO2) battery. According to various embodiments, the battery of the charging unit 101 may be recharged by an external power source if the determined capacity of the battery of the charging unit 101 is determined to be below a threshold value, the threshold value being within the following ranges: (i) 1000-1100 mAh, (ii) 1100-1200 mAh, (iii) 1100-1200 mAh, (iv) 1200-1300 mAh, (v) 1300-1400 mAh, (vi) 1400-1500 mAh, (vii) 1500-2000 mAh, or (viii) >2000 mAh.

[0104] According to various embodiments, the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 and the battery of the charging unit 101 may optionally be charged individually, simultaneously, synchronously, or asynchronously via a charging cable or wireless charging interface when in the seventh state 270 (i.e., when the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but a usage session has not yet begun).

[0105] When in the seventh state 270 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but the usage session has not yet begun), and optionally when the controller of the charging unit 101 determines that the charging cable is not inserted into the charging unit 101 (or the wireless charging interface is not activated), and when it determines that the power level or current capacity of the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 is below an acceptable threshold criterion, the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be charged via the battery of the charging unit 101.

[0106] When a use session is initiated or initiated by the user (or otherwise) and the controller of the charging unit 101 is in the seventh state 270 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but the use session has not yet begun), any charging of the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 and / or the battery of the charging unit 101 that may have begun during the seventh state 270 may be disabled, and the controller of the charging unit 101 may be configured to enter the eighth state 280.

[0107] The controller of the charging unit 101 may be configured to remain in the eighth state 280 until the aerosol delivery device 100 is removed from the charging unit 101, the session is stopped, or is otherwise no longer active.

[0108] In a situation where the aerosol delivery device 100 is removed from the charging unit 101, the controller of the charging unit 101 may return to the sixth state 260 (i.e., the charging unit 101 is not electrically connected to the aerosol delivery device and a session has not been initiated). In a situation where the session has been stopped or is no longer active but the aerosol delivery device 100 remains inserted within the charging unit 101 and the aerosol delivery device 100 remains electrically connected to the charging unit 101, the controller of the charging unit 101 may return to the seventh state 270 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but a usage session is not being performed).

[0109] According to various embodiments, criteria that may be used to determine an inactive session include the session being terminated (or desired to be terminated) by a user activating one or more buttons 106 on aerosol delivery device 100 and / or one or more buttons on charging unit 101. Another criterion for determining that a session is inactive or otherwise desired to be stopped includes a determination made by the controller of charging unit 101 and / or the controller of aerosol delivery 100 that either the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 and / or the battery of charging unit 101 is depleted.

[0110] With reference to the flowcharts shown in both Figures 2 and 3, it will be understood that when the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 is in the first state 210 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is not located in the charging unit 101 and a session has not been initiated), the controller of the charging unit 101 is in the sixth state 260 (i.e., the charging unit 101 is not electrically connected to the aerosol delivery device 100 and a session has not been initiated).

[0111] When the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 is in the second state 220 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101, but a usage session has not yet started), the controller of the charging unit 101 is in the seventh state 270 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101, but a usage session has not yet started). In this situation, with the charging cable plugged in, if it is determined that the battery in the aerosol delivery device 100 is below an acceptable threshold criterion, the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be recharged via the charging cable. If it is determined that the battery of the charging unit 101 is below an acceptable threshold criterion, the battery of the charging unit 101 may also be recharged via the charging cable.

[0112] Alternatively, when the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 is in the second state 220 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but the session has not yet started), the controller of the charging unit 101 is in its corresponding seventh state 270 (i.e., the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 but the usage session has not yet started), and the controller of the charging unit 101 determines that a charging cable is not inserted into the charging unit 101, and also determines that the battery in the aerosol delivery device 100 is below an acceptable threshold criterion, the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 may be charged via the battery of the charging unit 101.

[0113] Finally, when the controller of the aerosol delivery device 100 is in the fourth state 240 , the controller of the charging unit 101 can be in the eighth state 280 .

[0114] According to various embodiments, when aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into charging unit 101, the controller of charging unit 101 may act as a master controller. That is, the controller of charging unit 101 may control the transfer of energy to the heating element of aerosol delivery device 100 during a usage session. If aerosol delivery device 100 is removed from charging unit 101 during the same session, the controller of aerosol delivery device 100 may then act as the master controller of aerosol delivery device 100 (e.g., in third state 230, where aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101 but the session has nevertheless begun) and substantially immediately control the battery of aerosol delivery device 100 to transfer energy to the heating element of aerosol delivery device 100 in a substantially seamless manner.

[0115] It will be appreciated that the above process can also occur in reverse, i.e., when aerosol delivery device 100 is in third state 230 (i.e., when aerosol delivery device 100 is not inserted into charging unit 101, but a session has nevertheless been initiated), and then aerosol delivery device 100 is reinserted into charging unit 101, and the controller of charging unit 101 can act as the master controller for aerosol delivery device 100. Upon insertion, the controller of charging unit 101 substantially immediately enters eighth state 280, and energy from the battery of charging unit 101 may be supplied to the heating element located within aerosol delivery device 100 to heat the heating element.

[0116] The interchangeable master / slave relationship described above allows the use of the battery in charging unit 101 to be prioritized whenever possible. The battery in charging unit 101 may have a maximum capacity greater than the maximum capacity of the battery in aerosol delivery device 100. As a result, the battery life of aerosol delivery device 100 can be extended as long as possible, for example, as long as the total number of cycles of the battery in aerosol delivery device 100 can be minimized.

[0117] Furthermore, the ability of the heating element of the aerosol delivery device 100 to draw power substantially instantly and uninterrupted from the battery of the aerosol delivery device 100 (when not inserted into the charging unit 101) or from the battery of the charging unit 101 (when the aerosol delivery device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101) allows for a seamless transition for the user if the user decides to use the aerosol delivery device 100 separately from the charging unit 101 or if the aerosol delivery device is subsequently inserted into the charging unit 101 during a usage session.

[0118] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as a representative sample of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on the equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the present invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of any suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Furthermore, the present disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol delivery system comprising: an aerosol delivery device comprising a first controller and a first electrical energy storage device; a charging unit for charging the aerosol delivery device, the charging unit comprising a second controller and a second electrical energy storage device; Equipped with Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining whether the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; (ii) when it is determined that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; Determining a first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device before starting a first use session; and / or Determining a second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device before commencing a first use session. The aerosol delivery system is configured to:

2. 2. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, wherein when the second controller determines that the aerosol delivery device is not electrically connected to the charging unit, the second controller is further configured to charge the second electrical energy storage device with an external power source when the charging unit is connected to an external power source.

3. The first controller and / or the second controller (i) determining that it is desirable to begin a first use session; (ii) determining whether the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session; and (iii) optionally, commencing the first use session when the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is determined to be sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session.

3. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1 or 2, configured to:

4. The first controller and / or the second controller (i) determining that it is desirable to begin a first use session; (ii) determining whether a second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session; and (iii) optionally, commencing the first use session when the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is determined to be sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session.

4. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, 2 or 3, configured to:

5. The first controller and / or the second controller (i) determining that it is desirable to begin a first use session; (ii) determining whether a combination of the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device and the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session; and (iii) optionally, commencing the first use session when it is determined that a combination of the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device and the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is sufficient to power the aerosol delivery device throughout the intended first use session.

5. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, configured to:

6. Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining whether the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; (ii) determining that the charging unit is connected to an external power source; and (iii) charging the first electrical energy storage device with the external power source.

6. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, configured to:

7. Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) if the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is below a first threshold; and / or (ii) if the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is greater than a second threshold; 7. The aerosol delivery system of claim 6, configured to charge the first electrical energy storage device with the external power source.

8. Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; (ii) determining that the charging unit is connected to an external power source; and (iii) charging the second electrical energy storage device with the external power source.

8. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, configured to:

9. Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) if the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is below a second threshold; and / or (ii) if the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is greater than a first threshold; 9. The aerosol delivery system of claim 8, configured to charge the second electrical energy storage device with the external power source.

10. Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; (ii) determining that the charging unit is not connected to an external power source; and (iii) charging the first electrical energy storage device with the second electrical energy storage device.

10. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, configured to:

11. Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) if the determined first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device is below a first threshold; and / or (ii) if the determined second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device is greater than a second threshold; 11. The aerosol delivery system of claim 10, configured to charge the first electrical energy storage device with the second electrical energy storage device.

12. The first threshold value is: (i)<20mAh, (ii) 20-40mAh, (iii) 40-60mAh, (iv) 60-80mAh, (v) 80-100mAh, (vi) 100-120mAh, (vii) 120-140mAh, (viii) 140-160mAh, (ix) 160 to 180 mAh, or (x)180~200mAh 12. The aerosol delivery system according to claim 7, wherein the aerosol delivery rate is in the range of:

13. The second threshold value is: (i)<200mAh, (ii) 200-400mAh, (iii) 400-600mAh, (iv) 600-800mAh, (v) 800-1000mAh, (vi) 1000~1200mAh, (vii) 1200-1400mAh, (viii) 1400~1600mAh, (ix) 1600 to 1800 mAh, or (x) 1800~2000mAh 13. The aerosol delivery system according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the aerosol delivery system is in the range of

14. Either the first controller and / or the second controller: (i) determining that the charging unit is connected to an external power source; (ii) determining that it is desirable to initiate a first use session; (iii) optionally disabling electrical charging of the aerosol delivery device by the external power source; and (iv) optionally disabling electrical charging of the charging unit by the external power source; 14. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, configured to:

15. The first controller and / or the second controller (i) disabling electrical charging of the aerosol delivery device by an external power source substantially simultaneously with disabling electrical charging of the charging unit by the external power source; (ii) disabling electrical charging of the aerosol delivery device by an external power source, and then disabling electrical charging of the charging unit by the external power source after a time delay; or (iii) disabling electrical charging of the charging unit by an external power source, and then disabling electrical charging of the aerosol delivery device by the external power source after a time delay.

15. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, configured to:

16. The first controller and / or the second controller (i) determining that a first use session has begun; (ii) determining that the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; and (iii) at least partially powering the aerosol delivery device with the second electrical energy storage device to continue the first use session.

16. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, configured to:

17. The first controller: (i) determining that a first use session has begun; (ii) determining that the aerosol delivery device was electrically disconnected from the charging unit during the first use session; and (iii) energizing the aerosol delivery device with the first electrical energy storage device to continue the first use session.

17. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, configured to:

18. the first electrical energy storage device: (i) a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, or (ii) Lithium titanate or lithium titanium oxide (LTO) batteries 18. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, comprising:

19. the first electrical energy storage device: (i) <50mAh, (ii) 50-100mAh, (iii) 100 to 150 mAh, or (iv) 150-200mAh 19. The aerosol delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 18, having a capacity in the range

20. the second electrical energy storage device: (i) Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2) batteries; (ii) Lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) batteries; (iii) a lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNixMnyCOzO2) battery; or (iv) Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide (LiNiCoAlO2) battery 20. The aerosol delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 19, comprising:

21. the second electrical energy storage device: (i) 1000-1100mAh, (ii) 1100~1200mAh, (iii) 1100~1200mAh, (iv) 1200-1300mAh, (v) 1300-1400mAh, (vi) 1400~1500mAh, (vii) 1500 to 2000 mAh, or (viii)>2000mAh 21. The aerosol delivery system of any one of claims 1 to 20, having a capacity in the range of

22. the first electrical energy storage device has a capacitance C1, the second electrical energy storage device has a capacitance C2, and the ratio C2 / C1 is: (i) <2, (ii) 2-3, (iii) 3 to 4, (iv) 4 to 5, (v) 5-6, (vi) 6-7, (vii) 7-8, (viii) 8-9, (ix) 9 to 10, (x) 10-11, (xi) 11-12, (xii) 12-13, (xiii) 13-14, (xiv) 14-15, (xv) 15 to 20, or (xvi)>20 22. The aerosol delivery system of claim 1, wherein the aerosol delivery rate is in the range of:

23. 1. A method of operating an aerosol delivery system, comprising: providing an aerosol delivery device comprising a first electrical energy storage device and a charging unit for charging the aerosol delivery device, the charging unit comprising a second electrical energy storage device; determining whether the aerosol delivery device is electrically connected to the charging unit; determining a first capacity of the first electrical energy storage device before initiating a first use session, and / or determining a second capacity of the second electrical energy storage device before initiating a first use session; , including a method of operation.

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