Cool-down warning system

Abstract

A cool-down system for a device includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the at least one processor, the memory configured to store instructions, the at least one processor configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to detect that a session has ended, activate a cool-down timer to measure a cool-down time, provide an indication of the time remaining on the cool-down timer, and return the device to normal operation in response to the expiration of the cool-down timer.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to heat not burn (HNB) aerosol generating devices and capsules configured to generate aerosols without substantial thermal decomposition of the aerosol-forming substrate. [Background technology]

[0002] Some electronic devices are configured to heat plant material to a temperature sufficient to release components of the plant material, while maintaining the temperature below the plant material's combustion point to avoid substantial thermal decomposition. Such devices are sometimes referred to as aerosol generating devices (e.g., heat-not-burn aerosol generating devices), and the heated plant material may be tobacco and / or cannabis. In some cases, the plant material may be introduced directly into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. In other embodiments, the plant material may be pre-packaged in individual containers for easy insertion and removal from the aerosol generating device. Summary of the Invention

[0003]

[0009] Novel and useful systems, apparatus, and methods for aerosol generating device cool-down warning systems are set forth in the accompanying claims. Exemplary embodiments are also provided to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the claimed subject matter.

[0004] For example, some exemplary embodiments describe a cool-down system for a device. The cool-down system may include at least one processor and a memory coupled to the at least one processor. The memory may be configured to store instructions. The at least one processor may be configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to detect that a session has ended, activate a cool-down timer to measure a cool-down time, provide an indication of the time remaining on the cool-down timer, and, upon expiration of the cool-down time, return the device to normal operation.

[0005] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to obtain a signal from the control button, which may indicate that the device has been powered down and the session has ended.

[0006] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to obtain a signal from the mechanism detection switch, which may indicate that the lid mechanism has opened and the session has ended.

[0007] In some demonstrative embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to obtain a signal from the charging connection, which may indicate that the device is connected to a charger and that the session has ended.

[0008] In some demonstrative embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to obtain a signal from the battery monitoring system, which may indicate that the device has entered a low battery state and that a session has ended.

[0009] In some example embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to detect that the device is in a fault state. The fault state may indicate that the session has ended.

[0010] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a warning icon on a user interface if the lid mechanism of the device is opened while the cool-down timer is active.

[0011] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a cool-down warning icon if a session is in progress and the lid mechanism of the device is opened before the cool-down timer is activated.

[0012] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to activate a refresh timer after the cool-down timer is activated. In some exemplary embodiments, the refresh timer may be configured to measure a refresh time. The refresh timer may be further configured to reset if the cool-down timer is active when the refresh timer has elapsed. The refresh time may be shorter than the cool-down time. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to refresh a timer icon when the refresh time has elapsed.

[0013] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a capsule ejection icon on a user interface when the cool-down time has elapsed. The capsule ejection icon may indicate that the capsule of the device can be ejected.

[0014] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to activate a hold-off timer for a hold-off time and display a system icon on a user interface while the cool-down timer is running. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a cool-down recognition icon after the hold-off time has elapsed.

[0015] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to activate a hold-off timer for a hold-off time and display a power off indication if the device is powered off while the cool-down timer is active. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a cool-down warning icon after the hold-off timer has expired and until the cool-down timer has expired.

[0016] In some exemplary embodiments, the cool-down period may be based on the length of the device's session.

[0017] In some exemplary embodiments, the cool-down system may further include a temperature sensor, hi some exemplary embodiments, the cool-down time may be based on a temperature measured by the temperature sensor.

[0018] In some exemplary embodiments, a cool-down timer may be activated when the heater of the device heats up to a minimum threshold. In some exemplary embodiments, the minimum threshold may be at least 60 joules of energy input to the heater. In some exemplary embodiments, the minimum threshold may be at least 10 seconds of heating.

[0019] In some demonstrative embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to execute instructions to cause the cooldown system to set a session in progress flag when a session starts and to clear the session in progress flag when the session ends.

[0020] Also described herein are non-transitory computer-readable media that include instructions that, when executed by processing circuitry of a device, cause the device to perform functions described herein, which may include detecting that a session has ended, activating a cool-down timer associated with a cool-down time, providing an indication of the time remaining on the cool-down timer, and returning the device to normal operation upon expiration of the cool-down time.

[0021] Also described herein is a cool-down system for a device. The cool-down system may include processor means and memory means. The memory means may be coupled to the processor means and configured to store instructions. The processor means may be configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to detect that a session has ended, activate a cool-down timer associated with a cool-down time, provide an indication of the time remaining on the cool-down timer, and return the device to normal operation in response to the cool-down time having elapsed.

[0022] Also described herein is a method of operating a cool-down system of a device, which may include detecting that a session has ended, activating a cool-down timer associated with a cool-down time, providing an indication of the time remaining on the cool-down timer, and returning the device to normal operation upon expiration of the cool-down time.

[0023] The objects, advantages, and preferred modes of manufacture and use of the claimed subject matter may best be understood by referring to the accompanying drawings in conjunction with the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] Various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will become more apparent from a consideration of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly stated. Various dimensions of the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top right front perspective view of a device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0026] [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a top right front perspective view of the device with the lid open and the device containing the capsule.

[0027] [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a bottom perspective view of the device.

[0028] [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C is a bottom view of the device.

[0029] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a device cool-down system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] [Figure 4] 4A-4H are different embodiments of icons that may be presented on the communication screen of a device.

[0031] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a method of operating a cool-down system of an apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a method of operating a cool-down system of an apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a method for analyzing the state of a device when the lid of the device is opened, according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] Although several detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing the exemplary embodiments, however, the exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to only the exemplary embodiments set forth herein.

[0035] Accordingly, while example embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the example embodiments are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0036] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to," "attached to," "adjacent to," or "covering" another element or layer, it should be understood that it can be directly connected to, coupled to, attached to, adjacent to, or covering the other element or layer, and that intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0037] In this specification, terms such as first, second, and third may be used to describe various elements, regions, layers, and / or sections, but it should be understood that these elements, regions, layers, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, region, layer, or section described below could be referred to as a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0038] For ease of description, spatially relative terms (e.g., "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another, as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. Also, the device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees, oriented in other directions), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein would be interpreted accordingly.

[0039] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and / or "comprising" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0040] As used herein, when the words "about" and "substantially" are used in connection with numerical values, unless expressly defined otherwise, it is intended that the associated numerical value include a tolerance of ±10% around the stated numerical value. Furthermore, when the terms "generally" or "substantially" are used in connection with geometric shapes, precision of the geometric shape is not required, but a margin of shape is intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, regardless of whether a numerical value or shape is modified as "about," "generally," or "substantially," it will be understood that these numerical values ​​and shapes should be interpreted as including manufacturing or operating tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value or shape.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. Furthermore, terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined as such in this specification.

[0042] As used herein, "coupled" includes both removably and permanently coupled. For example, if an elastic layer and a support layer are removably coupled to one another, the elastic layer and the support layer can be separated when sufficient force is applied.

[0043] The hardware may be implemented using processing or control circuitry, including, but not limited to, one or more processors, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontrollers, one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more microcomputers, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more systems on a chip (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any other device that may respond to and / or execute instructions in a defined manner.

[0044] 1 and 2A-2C are illustrations of a device 100 according to some exemplary embodiments. In some embodiments, the device 100 may be an aerosol generating device. Referring to FIG. 1, a top perspective view of the device 100 is shown. In some embodiments, the body of the device 100 may have a generally rectangular or pebble shape. The body of the device 100 may include a housing 102 and a lid mechanism or lid 104. The housing 102 may have a first end 106 and a second end 108 opposite the first end 106. The lid may have a first end 110 and a second end 112 opposite the first end 110. The first end 110 of the lid 104 may be fixedly coupled to the second end 108 of the housing 102 at a first point 114 and releasably coupled to the second end 108 of the housing 102 at a second point 116. The first point 114 of the housing 102 may be on a first side 118 of the device 100. The second point 116 of the housing 102 may be on a second side 120 of the device 100.

[0045] In some exemplary embodiments, the device 100 may further include a mouthpiece 122. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the mouthpiece 122 may include a first end 124 and a second end 126 opposite the first end 124. The second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may be coupled to the second end 112 of the lid 104. In some embodiments, the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may be releasably coupled to the second end 112 of the lid 104. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece 122 may taper between the first end 124 and the second end 126. For example, the diameter or average length / width dimension of the first end 124 may be smaller than the diameter or average length / width dimension of the second end 126. Toward the first end 124, the taper may have a slight inward curvature 128 configured to receive the lips of an adult consumer, improving comfort and experience. In some embodiments, first end 124 has an oval or elliptical shape and can include one or more outlets 130. For example, first end 124 can include four outlets 130 so that four or more different areas or quadrants of an adult consumer's mouth can be engaged during use of device 100. In other embodiments, mouthpiece 122 can have fewer than four outlets 130 or more than four outlets 130.

[0046] In some exemplary embodiments, the housing 102 may include an adult consumer interface panel 132 disposed on the second side 120 of the device 100. For example, the consumer interface panel 132 may be an oval-shaped panel that runs along the second side 120 of the device 100. The consumer interface panel 132 may include an unlatch button 134, as well as a communication screen 136 and / or control buttons 138. For example, in at least some exemplary embodiments, the consumer interface panel 132 may include a communication screen 136 disposed between the unlatch button 134 and the control buttons 138. As shown, the unlatch button 134 may be disposed toward the second end 108 of the device 100, and the control buttons 138 may be disposed toward the first end 106 of the device 100. The unlatch button 134 and the control buttons 138 may be adult consumer interaction buttons. The unlatch button 134 and the control button 138, although not limited to an exemplary embodiment, may have a substantially circular shape with a central depression or indentation configured to direct pressure applied by an adult consumer. The control button 138 may power the device 100 on and off. While only two buttons are shown, it should be understood that more or fewer buttons may be provided depending on the available functionality and desired adult consumer interface.

[0047] The communication screen 136 may be a user interface such as a human-machine interface (HMI) display. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the communication screen 136 may be an integrated thin film transistor ("TFT") screen. In other exemplary embodiments, the communication screen 136 is an organic light-emitting diode ("OLED") or light-emitting diode ("LED") screen. The communication screen 136 is configured for user engagement and may have a generally rectangular shape.

[0048] In some embodiments, the exterior of the housing 102 and / or lid 104 may be formed from metal (aluminum, stainless steel, etc.); aesthetic food-contact rated plastic (such as polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic); or any combination thereof. The mouthpiece 122 may likewise be formed from metal (aluminum, stainless steel, etc.); aesthetic food-contact rated plastic (such as polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic); and / or plant-based material (wood, bamboo, etc.). One or more interior surfaces or housing 102 and / or lid 104 may be formed from or coated with a high temperature plastic (e.g., polyetheretherketone (PEEK), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), etc.).

[0049] 2A is another top perspective view of the device 100 with the lid 104 in an open configuration. The lid 104 may be fixedly coupled to the housing 102 at a first point 114 by a hinge 202 or other similar connector that allows the lid 104 to move (e.g., swing and rotate) from an open position to a closed position. In some embodiments, the hinge 202 may be a torsion spring. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the housing 102 may include a recess 204 at the first point 114. The recess 204 may be configured to receive a portion of the lid 104 to allow easy and smooth movement of the lid 104 from the open position to the closed position (and vice versa). The recess 204 may have a structure that corresponds to a corresponding portion of the lid 104. For example, as shown, the recess 204 may include a substantially curved portion 206 having a generally concave shape that corresponds to the curvature of the lid 104, which has a generally convex shape.

[0050] The lid 104 may be releasably coupleable to the housing 102 at the second point 116 by a latch 208, or other similar connector, such that the lid 104 is secured or fixed in a closed position and is easily releasable to allow the lid 104 to move from the closed position to an open position. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the latch 208 may be coupled to an unlatching mechanism disposed within the housing. The unlatching mechanism may be configured to move the latch 208 from a first or closed position to a second or open position.

[0051] 2A, when the lid 104 is in the open position, a capsule receiving cavity 210 in the housing 102 is exposed. A capsule connector 212 may define the capsule receiving cavity 210 in the housing 102. In some embodiments, the capsule connector 212 may be attached or otherwise secured to a printed circuit board (PCB) within the housing 102.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2A , the capsule 214 can be received by the capsule-receiving cavity 210. Although not shown herein, in some embodiments, there can be a gasket disposed around the capsule 214 to help secure the capsule 214 in place within the housing 102. The capsule 214 can include a housing 216 configured to contain the aerosol-forming substrate and heater. In some embodiments, the housing 216 can be in the form of a cover, such as a shell or box sleeve. In some embodiments, the capsule 214 can include a first end cap 217 and a second end cap. The second end cap can face the first end cap 217 so as to be positioned within the housing 102 when the capsule 214 is received by the capsule-receiving cavity 210.

[0053] As discussed herein, an aerosol-forming substrate is a material or combination of materials capable of producing an aerosol. Aerosol refers to a substance produced or output by the disclosed and claimed devices, and equivalents thereof. The material may include a compound (e.g., nicotine, cannabinoids), and when the material is heated, an aerosol containing the compound is produced. Heating may be below combustion temperatures to produce an aerosol without substantial thermal decomposition of the aerosol-forming substrate or substantial production of combustion by-products, if any. Thus, in exemplary embodiments, no thermal decomposition occurs during heating and the resulting production of the aerosol. In other instances, there may be thermal decomposition or combustion by-products, but these are considered relatively minor and / or merely incidental.

[0054] The aerosol-forming substrate can be a fibrous material. For example, the fibrous material can be a plant material. The fibrous material is configured to release a compound when heated. The compound can be a naturally occurring component of the fibrous material. For example, the fibrous material is a plant material such as tobacco, and the released compound is nicotine. The term "tobacco" includes any tobacco plant material, including tobacco leaf, tobacco plugs, reconstituted tobacco, compressed tobacco, formed tobacco, or powder tobacco, and combinations thereof from one or more species of tobacco plants, such as Nicotiana rustica or Nicotiana tabacum.

[0055] In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material can include material from any member of the Nicotiana genus. Furthermore, the tobacco material can also include a blend of two or more different tobacco varieties. Suitable types of tobacco material that can be used include, but are not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, dark tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, blends thereof, and the like. The tobacco material can be provided in any suitable form, including, but not limited to, tobacco lamina, processed tobacco materials such as expanded tobacco or puffed tobacco, processed tobacco stems such as cut rolling stems or cut puffed stems, reconstituted tobacco materials, blends thereof, and the like. In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material is in the form of a substantially dried mass of tobacco. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tobacco material can be mixed and / or combined with at least one of propylene glycol, glycerin, subcombinations thereof, or combinations thereof.

[0056] The compound may also be a naturally occurring component of a medicinal plant with medically recognized therapeutic effects. For example, the medicinal plant may be the cannabis plant, and the compound may be a cannabinoid. Cannabinoids interact with receptors in the body, resulting in a variety of effects. As a result, cannabinoids have been used for a variety of medicinal purposes, including the treatment of pain, nausea, epilepsy, and psychiatric disorders. The fibrous material may include leaf and / or flower material from one or more cannabis species, such as Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. In one embodiment, the fibrous material is a mixture of 60-80% (e.g., 70%) Cannabis sativa and 20-40% (e.g., 30%) Cannabis indica.

[0057] Examples of cannabinoids include tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is a precursor to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) is a precursor to cannabidiol (CBD). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) can be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively, by heating. In an exemplary embodiment, heat from a heater can cause decarboxylation to convert tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) in the capsule to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and / or cannabidiol acid (CBDA) in the capsule to cannabidiol (CBD).

[0058] When both tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are present in the capsule, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion result in a decrease in tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and an increase in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). At least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) during heating of the capsule. Similarly, when both cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and cannabidiol (CBD) are present in the capsule, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion result in a decrease in cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and an increase in cannabidiol (CBD). At least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) during heating of the capsule.

[0059] Furthermore, the compound may be, or may additionally comprise, a non-naturally occurring additive that is subsequently introduced into the fibrous material. In one example, the fibrous material may comprise at least one of cotton, polyethylene, polyester, rayon, a combination thereof, and the like (e.g., in the form of gauze). In another example, the fibrous material may be a cellulosic material (e.g., a non-tobacco and / or non-cannabis material). In either example, the introduced compound may comprise nicotine, a cannabinoid, and / or a flavoring. The flavoring may be naturally occurring, such as a plant extract (e.g., tobacco extract, cannabis extract), and / or artificially occurring. In yet another example, if the fibrous material comprises tobacco and / or cannabis, the compound may be, or may further comprise, one or more flavorings (e.g., menthol, mint, vanilla). Thus, the compound within the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise naturally occurring components and / or non-naturally occurring additives. In this regard, it should be understood that the existing levels of naturally occurring components in the aerosol-forming substrate may be increased by supplementation. For example, the amount of nicotine in tobacco can be increased by supplementing it with an extract containing nicotine. Similarly, the existing levels of one or more cannabinoids in cannabis can be increased by supplementing it with an extract containing such cannabinoids.

[0060] First end cap 217 can include a first opening 218. In some embodiments, first opening 218 can be a series of openings disposed through first end cap 217. Similarly, second end cap can include a second opening, which in some embodiments can also be a series of openings. In some embodiments, first end cap 217 and / or second end cap can be transparent to function as a window configured to allow viewing of contents / components (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate and / or heater) within capsule 214.

[0061] The capsule receiving cavity 210 may have a base portion that is internal to the housing 102. In some embodiments, the base portion may include at least one contact that may be configured to couple to one or more contacts of the capsule 214 when the capsule 214 is received by the capsule receiving cavity 210. When the capsule 214 is inserted into the capsule receiving cavity 210, the weight of the capsule 214 itself may not be sufficient to compress the at least one contact of the base portion of the capsule receiving cavity 210. As a result, the capsule 214 may simply rest on the exposed pin of the at least one contact without compressing (or significantly compressing) the electrical contact of the at least one contact. Furthermore, the weight of the lid 104 itself may not compress the electrical contact of the at least one contact to a significant extent when pivoted to the closed position, and instead may simply rest on the capsule 214 in an intermediate, partially open / closed position. In such an example, an intentional action (e.g., a downward force) to close the lid 104 causes the surface 220 of the lid 104 to press down on the capsule 214 to provide the desired seal and also to force the capsule 214, thus fully engaging the electrical contacts of the at least one contact.

[0062] Additionally, fully closing the lid 104 may result in engagement with the latch 208, which may maintain the closed position and the desired mechanical / electrical engagement with the capsule 214 until released (e.g., via the unlatch button 134). The force required to close the lid 104 may help to ensure and / or improve the air / aerosol seal, provide a stronger electrical connection, and may help improve device and thermal efficiency and battery life by reducing or eliminating initial power consumption and / or parasitic heating of the capsule 214.

[0063] The lid 104 may include an internal cavity 222 that may be adapted to receive the housing 102 when the lid is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the internal cavity 222 of the lid 104 may include an abutment or engagement member or surface 220 configured to engage the capsule 214 when the lid 104 is rotated to the closed position. The surface 220 of the lid 104 may include a recess that may correspond to the size and shape of the capsule and / or a resilient material to strengthen the interface with the capsule to provide a desired seal. In some embodiments, the lid 104 may further include an opening 224 that may be adapted to receive the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122. The mouthpiece 122 may include at least one extension 226 that may be received by the opening 224 of the lid 104 to secure the mouthpiece 122 to the lid 104. In some embodiments, the lid 104 may further include a protrusion that may be configured to mate with a recess 228 of the housing 102. The protrusion may fit within the recess 228 when the lid 104 is coupled to the housing 102 in the closed position.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 2B , a bottom perspective view of device 100 is shown. In some embodiments, housing 102 may define a port or charging connector 250. The charging connector may be defined or disposed at first end 106 of housing 102. Charging connector 250 may be configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB cable) to charge a power source internal to device 100. In some embodiments, a protective grille 252 is disposed around charging connector 250. Protective grille 252 may be configured to help reduce or prevent the intrusion of debris and / or the inadvertent blockage of incoming airflow. For example, protective grille 252 may define a plurality of apertures 254 along its length or course. As shown, protective grille 252 may have an annular configuration surrounding charging connector 250. In this regard, apertures 254 may be disposed (e.g., in series) around charging connector 250. Each aperture 254 may have, without limitation, an oval or circular shape. In at least one exemplary embodiment, protective grill 252 may comprise an approved food contact material. For example, protective grill 252 may comprise plastic, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum), or any combination thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the surface of protective grill 252 may be coated with, for example, a thin layer of plastic and / or anodized.

[0065] The pores 254 in the protective grille 252 may function as inlets for air to be drawn into the device 100. During operation of the device 100, ambient air entering through the pores 254 in the protective grille 252 around the charging connector 250 converges to form a combined flow that travels to the capsule 214. For example, the pores 254 may be in fluid communication with the capsule receiving cavity 210. In at least one exemplary embodiment, air may be drawn from the pores 254 through the capsule receiving cavity 210. For example, air may be drawn through the capsule 214 received by the capsule receiving cavity 210 and out of the mouthpiece 122.

[0066] 2C, a bottom view of device 100 is shown. In some embodiments, charging connector 250 can be an assembly defining a cavity 256 with a protrusion 258 within cavity 256. In at least one exemplary embodiment, protrusion 258 does not extend beyond the edge of cavity 256. Furthermore, charging connector 250 can also be configured to transmit data to and / or receive data (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB cable) from another aerosol generating device (e.g., a heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol generating device) and / or other electronic devices (e.g., a phone, tablet, computer, etc.). In at least one embodiment, device 100 can alternatively or additionally be configured to wirelessly communicate (e.g., via Bluetooth) with such other aerosol generating devices and / or electronic devices.

[0067] It should be understood that the device 100 and capsule 214 may include additional elements (e.g., heaters and internal airflow paths, etc.) as described in Atty. Dkt. No. 24000NV-000847-US, entitled "HEAT-NOT-BURN (HNB) AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICES AND CAPSULES," filed on the same day herewith and bearing application serial number XX / XXX,XXX, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 3 , a block diagram of a cool-down system 300 of the device 100 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The cool-down system 300 may be used to warn or notify a consumer that the device 100 is warm after heating a consumable item, such as the capsule 214 of the device 100. More specifically, the cool-down system 300 may notify the consumer of the time until and when the capsule 214 of the device 100 can be removed. Furthermore, the cool-down system 300 may be configured to warn the consumer that the capsule 214 is warm if the lid 104 of the device 100 is opened before the capsule 214 has cooled to a comfortable or desired temperature. The cool-down system 300 may prevent the device 100 from automatically powering off until the cool-down system 300 alerts the consumer that the device 100 is ready to open the lid 104 to remove the capsule 214.

[0069] The cool-down system 300 may include a processor 302, a memory 304, control buttons 138, a mechanism detection switch 308, a charging connection 310, a battery monitoring system 312, a power source 313, a communication screen 136, a touch actuator 316, a heater 317, and a temperature sensor 318. In some embodiments, the processor 302 may include a timer 320 and the memory 304 may include a session-in-progress flag 321. In other embodiments, the session-in-progress flag 321 may be stored in the processor 302, such as in local storage of the processor 302, and the timer 320 may be executed using instructions stored in the memory 304. The processor 302 may be in communication with the memory 304, the control buttons 138, the mechanism detection switch 308, the charging connection 310, the battery monitoring system 312, the power source 313, the communication screen 136, the touch actuator 316, the heater 317, the temperature sensor 318, and the timer 320.

[0070] The processor 302 may be hardware including logic circuits, a hardware / software combination that can be configured to execute software, or a combination thereof. For example, the processor 302 may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other similar device. The processor 302 may be configured as a special purpose machine (e.g., a processing unit) for executing software or instructions stored in the memory 304. The software may be embodied as program code including instructions for performing and / or controlling any or all of the operations described herein as being performed by the processor 302.

[0071] In other exemplary embodiments, other processing and / or control circuits may be used.

[0072] While memory 304 is illustrated as being external to processor 302, in some exemplary embodiments, memory 304 may be integrated with processor 302. Memory 304 may refer to any of the terms “storage medium,” “computer-readable storage medium,” or “non-transitory computer-readable storage medium,” which may represent one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term “computer-readable medium” may include, but is not limited to, portable or permanent storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media that may store, preserve, or carry instructions and / or data.

[0073] Session in progress flag 321 may be stored in memory 304 and set to indicate the status of a session of device 100. For example, session in progress flag 321 may be set by processor 302 when control button 138 is pressed to start a session of device 100. Session in progress flag 321 may be reset by processor 302 when a session of device 100 ends, such as when control button 138 is pressed to end the session of device 100.

[0074] The timer 320 may include one or more timers configured to measure one or more times associated with the device 100 and / or the cool-down system 300. The timer 320 may include a cool-down timer 322 configured to measure a cool-down time. The cool-down time may be the amount of time from the end of a use session of the device 100 until the device 100 cools down to a temperature that allows removal of the capsule 214 from the device 100. The timer 320 may include a refresh timer 324 configured to measure a refresh time. In some embodiments, the refresh time may be less than the cool-down time. When the refresh time has elapsed, information regarding the cool-down time may be recalculated and refreshed on the communication screen 136. The timer 320 may include a first hold-off timer 326 that measures a first hold-off time. The first hold-off time may be the time that the communication screen 136 displays a first icon while the device 100 is powered off before displaying information related to the cool-down time. The timer 320 may further include a second hold-off timer 328 configured to measure a second hold-off time. The second hold-off time may be a time during which the communication screen 136 may display a power-off indication if the device 100 is powered off while the cool-down timer 322 is active.

[0075] Control button 138 may be configured to generate a signal indicating that the consumer has switched device 100 to an "off" state to end an ongoing session on device 100.

[0076] The mechanism detection switch 308 may be configured to generate a signal indicating that a lid mechanism, such as the lid 104 of the device 100, has been opened. The mechanism detection switch 308 may be a push button switch, a toggle button, a capacitance sensor, an IR sensor, or other element configured to communicate with the processor 302 that the lid 104 of the device 100 has been opened. When the lid 104 of the device 100 is opened, an ongoing session of the device 100 may be terminated. The mechanism detection switch 308 may be configured to generate a signal indicating that the lid 104 has been opened when the unlatch mechanism of the device 100 releases the latch 208. Further, additionally or alternatively, the mechanism detection switch 308 may be coupled to the unlatch button 134 and generate a signal indicating that the lid 104 of the device 100 has been opened when the unlatch button 134 is pressed. More specifically, the mechanism detection switch 308 may be disposed within the recess 228 such that closing the lid 104 of the device 100 activates the mechanism detection switch 308.

[0077] The charging connection 310 may be configured to generate a signal indicating that the device 100 is connected to a charger. When the device 100 is connected to a charger, an ongoing session may be terminated. In some embodiments, the housing 102 of the device 100 may include a charging connector or port. For example, the port may be defined / located on the first end 106 of the housing 102. The port may be configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB cable) to charge a power source, such as the power supply 313, within the device 100. The charging connection 310 may be configured to detect that the port of the device 100 is receiving current, which may indicate that an ongoing session has been terminated.

[0078] Battery monitoring system 312 may be configured to generate a signal indicating that device 100 has experienced a low battery condition. In some embodiments, when device 100 experiences a low battery condition, an ongoing session may be terminated.

[0079] In some embodiments, the housing 102 of the device 100 may enclose or house the power source 313. The power source 313 may include one or more batteries, such as a rechargeable dual battery arrangement, a lithium-ion battery, and / or a fuel cell. The power source 313 may be configured to receive current provided to the device 100 through a port to charge the power source 313. The battery monitoring system 312 may generate a signal indicating that the device 100 has entered a low battery state when the charge on the power source 313 falls below a predetermined threshold. When the device 100 is in a low battery state, the device 100 may not have enough power to continue normal operation of the session. However, the device 100 may have enough power to operate the cool-down system 300 until the capsule 214 reaches a comfortable temperature for the consumer to remove.

[0080] The communication screen 136 may display information related to the device 100. The communication screen 136 may display one or more icons to communicate information related to the device 100. For example, the communication screen 136 may display a timer icon indicating the time remaining on the cool-down timer 322 of the device 100. The communication screen 136 may display a warning icon indicating that the lid 104 of the device 100 was opened while the cool-down timer 322 was running. The communication screen 136 may also be configured to display a cool-down warning icon indicating that the lid 104 of the device was opened while a session was in progress and before the cool-down timer 322 was running. The communication screen 136 may also be configured to display a capsule ejection icon indicating that the cool-down time measured by the cool-down timer 322 has elapsed. The communication screen 136 may also be configured to display an end-of-session icon indicating that the device 100 was powered off while the cool-down timer 322 was running to measure the cool-down time. The communication screen 136 may also be configured to display a first power off icon and a second power off icon, both of which may indicate that the control button 138 was pressed while the cool-down timer 322 was active to power off the device. The communication screen 136 may also be configured to display a cool-down recognition icon, which indicates that the cool-down system 300 is still operating after the consumer pressed the control button 138 to power off the device 100. The communication screen 136 may also be configured to display a fault icon, which indicates that the device 100 is in a fault condition and may not be able to operate as intended.

[0081] The contact actuator 316 may be a haptic motor that may be disposed within the housing 102 of the device 100. The contact actuator 316 may be configured to vibrate the device when the contact actuator 316 is activated. The contact actuator 316 may be configured to be activated by the processor 302 when a consumer opens the lid 104 of the device 100 while the timer 320 is running to measure the cool-down time. In some embodiments, the contact actuator 316 may be configured to vibrate the device 100 with a vibration pattern when activated. For example, the contact actuator 316 may be configured to vibrate the device 100 three times when the lid 104 of the device 100 is opened while the timer 320 is running to measure the cool-down time. The vibration pattern may be unique to the cool-down system 300 so that the consumer can distinguish the vibration pattern from other vibrations that the contact actuator 316 may perform during operation of the device 100 other than when the cool-down system 300 is operating.

[0082] Heater 317 may be housed within device 100 and configured to heat capsule 214 of device 100. In some embodiments, heater 317 is a component of or connected to one or more of the heating voltage measurement circuitry, heating current measurement circuitry, and / or compensation measurement circuitry described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 151,409, entitled "HEAT-NOT-BURN (HNB) AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICES INCLUDING INTRA-DRAW HEATER CONTROL, AND METHODS OF CONTROLLING A HEATER," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0083] Temperature sensor 318 may be configured to measure the temperature of device 100. In some embodiments, temperature sensor 318 may be a thermistor or a thermocouple. More specifically, temperature sensor 318 may be disposed proximate capsule 214 of device 100 and configured to measure the temperature of an area proximate capsule 214 of device 100 to determine when capsule 214 can be removed from device 100. In some embodiments, a cool-down time may be determined based on the temperature measured by temperature sensor 318. For example, the cool-down time may be related to the temperature measured by temperature sensor 318 such that the cool-down time is longer when the temperature measured by temperature sensor 318 is higher and shorter when the temperature measured by temperature sensor 318 is lower.

[0084] 4A-4H, different exemplary embodiments of a display screen having a graphical user interface with icons are shown. In some embodiments, the display screen may be the communication screen 136 of the device 100. The icons displayed on the display screen or communication screen 136 may be generally referred to as system icons. In some embodiments, the icons in FIGS. 4A-4H may be displayed on the communication screen 136 in various colors, shades, or sizes. For example, the shaded portions of FIGS. 4A-4H may be displayed in orange, teal, red, or other suitable colors. The dashed lines shown in FIGS. 4A-4H indicate display screens or portions thereof. Additionally or alternatively, each icon in FIGS. 4A-4H may be modified or adapted to have a different symbol or shape, but each icon may represent a unique message related to the device 100 and / or the cool-down system 300.

[0085] 4A shows a display screen having a graphical user interface with an icon, such as a timer icon 402. The timer icon 402 may indicate to the consumer the time remaining on the cool-down timer 322 so that the consumer knows when they can remove the capsule 214 from the device 100. The timer icon 402 may be refreshed and updated during the cool-down period to inform the consumer when the capsule 214 can be removed from the device 100. For example, if the cool-down timer 322 has 90% of the cool-down time remaining, the timer icon 402 may appear substantially as shown in FIG. 4A with approximately 90% of the thermometer filled or shaded. As the cool-down time elapses, the timer icon 402 updates so that the shaded portion of the thermometer corresponds to the remaining cool-down time on the cool-down timer 322.

[0086] 4B shows a display screen with a graphical user interface with icons, such as a warning icon 404. The warning icon 404 may indicate to a consumer that the lid 104 of the device 100 was opened while the cool-down timer 322 was running or while a session of the device 100 was running. The warning icon 404 may indicate to a consumer that the capsule 214 has not cooled to a comfortable temperature for removal from the device 100.

[0087] 4C shows a display screen with a graphical user interface having an icon, such as a capsule removal icon 408. The capsule removal icon 408 may indicate to the consumer that the cool-down timer 322 has expired and that the capsule 214 may be removed from the device 100.

[0088] 4D shows a display screen having a graphical user interface with an icon, such as an end session icon 410. In some embodiments, the end session icon may indicate that the capsule 214 is empty of aerosol-forming substrate. The end session icon 410 may indicate that a previously active session of the device 100 has ended. In some embodiments, the end session icon 410 may be displayed briefly on the communication screen 136 before the timer icon 402 is displayed.

[0089] 4E shows a display screen having a graphical user interface with icons such as a first power off icon 412. The first power off icon 412 may indicate that the control button 138 has been pressed and held for at least three seconds while the cool-down timer 322 is running. When the control button 138 has been pressed for at least three seconds, the device 100 may be powered off after the cool-down timer 322 has elapsed. The first power off icon 412 may be displayed while the control button 138 is pressed and while the second hold-off timer 328 is running.

[0090] 4F shows a display screen having a graphical user interface with an icon, such as a second power off icon 413. The second power off icon 413 may be displayed after the control button 138 is released and tapped a second time to confirm that the device 100 should be powered off. When the control button 138 is pressed a second time, the processor 302 removes the first power off icon 412 from the communications screen 136. The second power off icon 413 may be similar to the first power off icon 412, but the coloring of the icon may be reversed compared to the first power off icon 412. The second power off icon 413 is displayed while the second hold-off timer 328 is active and is removed from the communications screen 136 when the second hold-off timer expires.

[0091] 4G shows a display screen having a graphical user interface with an icon, such as a cool-down recognition icon 414. The cool-down recognition icon 414 may indicate that the cool-down system 300 is still operating after the consumer presses the control button 138 to power off the device 100. More specifically, the cool-down recognition icon 414 may be displayed on the communication screen 136 after the second hold-off timer has elapsed and the first power-off icon 412 and the second power-off icon 413 have been removed from the communication screen 136. The cool-down recognition icon 414 is displayed until the cool-down timer 322 has elapsed.

[0092] FIG. 4H shows a display screen with a graphical user interface with an icon, such as a fault icon 416. The fault icon 416 may indicate that the device 100 is in an inoperative state such that a session cannot be initiated. In some embodiments, the device may enter an inoperative or fault state if the lid 104 of the device 100 is closed after having previously been opened while a session is active or while the cool-down timer 322 is active. In some embodiments, closing the lid 104 after opening it during an active session or while the cool-down timer 322 was active may cause the resistance between the electrodes of the capsule 214 to fall outside of a valid range, forcing the device 100 into a fault state. In other embodiments, the device 100 may enter a fault state if the device 100's hardware or software fails while a session is in progress or while the cool-down timer 322 is running. If the device 100 enters a fault state due to a malfunction, any ongoing sessions are terminated, the cool-down timer 322 is started, and the fault icon 416 may be displayed on the communication screen 136 by the processor 302. The cool-down system 300 may continue to run the cool-down timer 322 while the fault icon 416 is displayed on the communication screen 136. The fault icon 416 may be displayed on the communication screen 136 until the fault is corrected. Once the fault is corrected, the cool-down system 300 may display the appropriate icon from Figures 4A-4G to indicate the status of the cool-down system 300.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 5, a method 500 of operating the cool-down system 300 of the device 100 is shown. The processor 302 is configured to cause the cool-down system 300 to perform the method of FIG. 5 by executing instructions stored by the memory 304. In another exemplary embodiment, the processor 302 may be an ASIC and is configured to cause the cool-down system 300 to perform the method of FIG. 5. The method 500 may begin while a session of the device 100 is in progress. The session may begin when the device 100 is powered on and pre-heated for use by a consumer. In some embodiments, the session may begin when the control button 138 is pressed to power on the device 100. The device 100 may operate an ongoing session when the capsule 214 is being heated so that the consumer can use the device 100. The method 500 proceeds to step 502, where the cool-down system 300 may detect that the session has ended.

[0094] Cool-down system 300 may detect that a session has ended if it receives a signal from control button 138 indicating that the consumer has powered off device 100 (e.g., the consumer has pressed control button 138). Additionally or alternatively, cool-down system 300 may detect that a session has ended if it receives a signal from mechanism detection switch 308 indicating that device lid 104 has been opened. Additionally or alternatively, cool-down system 300 may detect that a session has ended if it receives a signal from charging connection 310 indicating that device 100 has been connected to a charger. Additionally or alternatively, cool-down system 300 may detect that a session has ended if it receives a signal from battery monitoring system 312 indicating that device 100 has entered a low battery state. Additionally or alternatively, cool-down system 300 may detect that a session has ended if it detects that device 100 is in a fault state.

[0095] After the cool-down system 300 detects that the session has ended in step 502, the method may proceed to step 504. In step 504, the cool-down system 300 may activate the timer 320. The timer 320 may be a cool-down timer 322, which may be configured to measure a cool-down time. As discussed above with reference to FIG. 3 , the cool-down time may be the amount of time from the end of the session until the device 100 has cooled to a temperature that allows the capsule 214 to be removed from the device 100.

[0096] In some embodiments, the cool-down period may be approximately 120 seconds. In other embodiments, the cool-down period may be based on the length of the session that just ended. In some embodiments, the longer the session, the longer the cool-down period. For example, if the session was less than 10 seconds, the cool-down period may be 30 seconds. If the session was longer than 10 seconds, the cool-down period may be 120 seconds or longer depending on the length of the session.

[0097] Additionally or alternatively, the cool-down time may be based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 318 of the device 100 .

[0098] Additionally or alternatively, the cool-down system 300 may activate the cool-down timer 322 only if the heater 317 of the device 100 has heated to a minimum threshold. In some embodiments, the minimum threshold may be when the heater 317 has been heated for at least a certain amount of time. For example, if the heater 317 has been heated for at least 10 seconds, the cool-down system 300 may activate the cool-down timer 322 when the session ends. In other embodiments, the minimum threshold may be when a threshold amount of energy has been input to the heater 317. For example, the cool-down system 300 may activate the cool-down timer 322 when at least 60 joules of energy have been input to the heater 317.

[0099] After the timer 320 is activated in step 504, the method 500 proceeds to step 506, where the cool-down status is displayed on the communication screen 136. In some embodiments, the communication screen 136 may display a timer icon 402 to indicate the remaining time being measured by the timer 320. More specifically, the timer icon 402 may be configured to indicate the time remaining until the cool-down time measured by the cool-down timer 322 reaches zero.

[0100] After the cool-down status is displayed on the communication screen 136 in step 506, the method 500 may proceed to conditional step 508, where the cool-down system 300 may determine whether the timer 320 has expired. If the timer 320 has not expired, the method 500 may return to step 506 and continue to display the cool-down status of the device 100 on the communication screen 136. If the timer 320 has expired, the method 500 may proceed to the end of the method 500.

[0101] When method 500 is complete, device 100 may return to normal operation. When method 500 is complete, device 100 may have a sufficiently low temperature to allow a consumer to comfortably remove capsule 214. In some embodiments, normal operation may allow a consumer to remove capsule 214 and replace or refill capsule 214 to continue using device 100.

[0102] 6, a block diagram of a method 600 of operating the cool-down system 300 of the device 100 is shown. As shown in FIG. 5, the method 600 is more detailed than the method 500. The method 600 may begin when a session of the device 100 is initiated. Once the session is initiated, the method 600 proceeds to step 602, where the session in progress flag 321 is set by the processor 302 and / or memory 304. The session in progress flag 321 may indicate that a session is in progress.

[0103] Next, method 600 proceeds to step 604, where communication screen 136 displays a session progress indicator or icon. In some embodiments, the session progress indicator may inform the consumer of the total time the session has been in progress. In other embodiments, the session progress indicator may be configured to indicate how long the session can last based on the remaining battery life of device 100 or the amount of substance contained in capsule 214. In yet other embodiments, the session progress indicator may be another indicator of the status of the session on device 100.

[0104] Next, method 600 may proceed to conditional step 606, where cool-down system 300 determines whether the session has ended. As described above, cool-down system 300 may detect that the session has ended if it receives a signal from control button 138 indicating that the consumer has powered off device 100. Additionally or alternatively, cool-down system 300 may detect that the session has ended if it receives a signal from mechanism detection switch 308 indicating that device lid 104 has been opened. Additionally or alternatively, cool-down system 300 may detect that the session has ended if it receives a signal from charging connection 310 indicating that device 100 has been connected to a charger. Additionally or alternatively, cool-down system 300 may detect that the session has ended if it receives a signal from battery monitoring system 312 indicating that device 100 has entered a low battery state. If device 100 enters a low battery state, device 100 may have sufficient battery to complete method 600 and may ensure that the consumer is alerted when device 100 is ready to remove capsule 214 from device 100. Additionally or alternatively, the cool-down system 300 may detect that the session has ended if it detects that the device 100 is in a fault condition.

[0105] If the session has not ended, the method 600 may return to step 604 and continue displaying the session progress indicator. If the session has ended, the method 600 may proceed to step 608.

[0106] In step 608, the cool-down system 300 may start a timer 320. The timer 320 may be a cool-down timer 322, which may be configured to measure a cool-down time. As described above with reference to FIG. 3, the cool-down time may be the amount of time from the end of a session until the device 100 has cooled to a temperature at which the capsule 214 can be removed from the device 100.

[0107] Additionally or alternatively, the cool-down time may be based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 318 of the device 100 .

[0108] Additionally or alternatively, the cool-down system 300 may activate the cool-down timer 322 only if the heater 317 of the device 100 has heated to a minimum threshold. In some embodiments, the minimum threshold may be when the heater 317 has been heated for at least a certain amount of time. For example, if the heater 317 has been heated for at least 10 seconds, the cool-down system 300 may activate the cool-down timer 322 when the session ends. In other embodiments, the minimum threshold may be when a threshold amount of energy has been input to the heater 317. For example, the cool-down system 300 may activate the cool-down timer 322 when at least 60 joules of energy have been input to the heater 317.

[0109] After the timer 320 is activated in step 608, the method 600 may proceed to step 610. In step 610, the processor 302 and / or memory 304 of the cool-down system 300 may clear the session-in-progress flag 321 that was set in step 602. The session-in-progress flag 321 may be cleared because the cool-down system 300 has determined that the session has ended.

[0110] After the session in progress flag 321 is cleared in step 610, the method 600 may proceed to step 612. In step 612, a first hold-off timer 326 of the timer 320 may be started by the processor 302. The first hold-off timer 326 may be configured to measure a first hold-off time. In some embodiments, the first hold-off time may be an amount of time that a display or information is displayed on the communication screen 136 before information related to the cool-down time. In some embodiments, the first hold-off time may be approximately 3 seconds.

[0111] After the hold-off timer is started, the method 600 may proceed to step 614. In step 614, the cool-down system 300 may display the end session icon 410. For example, the communication screen 136 may display the end session icon 410 while the device 100 is powered off before displaying information related to the cool-down time. The end session icon 410 may be displayed on the communication screen 136 during the first hold-off timer 326. The end session icon 410 may indicate to the consumer that the session has ended and the cool-down timer 322 is running. The end session icon 410 may be displayed on the communication screen 136 before the information indicating the status of the cool-down timer 322.

[0112] After the first hold-off timer 326 is started in step 612 and the end session icon 410 is displayed in step 614, the method 600 may proceed to a conditional step 616. In the conditional step 616, the cool-down system 300 may determine whether the first hold-off timer 326 has expired. If the first hold-off timer 326 has not expired, the method 600 may return to step 614 and the processor 302 may continue displaying the end session icon 410. If the first hold-off timer 326 has expired, the method 600 may proceed to step 618.

[0113] At step 618, the cool-down system 300 may be configured to calculate the percentage of time remaining on the cool-down timer 322. In some embodiments, the cool-down system 300 may additionally display an icon on the communication screen 136, such as the timer icon 402, that corresponds to the percentage of time remaining on the cool-down timer 322.

[0114] After the icon corresponding to the percentage of time remaining on the cool-down timer 322 is displayed on the communications screen 136, the method 600 may proceed to step 620. In step 620, the refresh timer 324 may be started. The refresh timer 324 may be configured to measure a refresh time. After the refresh time has elapsed, the icon corresponding to the percentage of time remaining on the cool-down timer 322 may be updated to reflect the new percentage of time remaining on the cool-down timer 322. In some embodiments, the update time may be approximately 6 seconds, such that the timer icon 402 is updated approximately 20 times while the cool-down timer 322 is active.

[0115] After the refresh timer 324 is started in step 620, the method 600 may proceed to conditional step 622. The conditional step 622 may determine whether the refresh timer 324 has elapsed. If the refresh timer 324 has elapsed, the method 600 may proceed to conditional step 624 where the cool-down system 300 may determine whether the cool-down timer 322 has elapsed. If the cool-down timer 322 has not elapsed, the method 600 may proceed back to step 618 where the percentage of time remaining on the cool-down timer 322 may be recalculated and an icon corresponding to the percentage of time remaining on the cool-down timer 322 may be updated and displayed on the communication screen 136. If the cool-down timer 322 has elapsed, the method 600 may proceed to step 626 where the cool-down system 300 may be configured to display the capsule removal icon 408 on the communication screen 136. The capsule removal icon 408 may indicate to the consumer that the capsule 214 may be removed from the device 100 because the device 100 has reached a comfortable or predetermined temperature near the capsule 214. After step 626, the method 600 may end with the device 100 returning to normal operation.

[0116] If cool-down system 300 determines at conditional step 622 that refresh timer 324 has not expired, method 600 proceeds to conditional step 628, where cool-down system 300 may determine whether device 100 has been powered off. In some embodiments, device 100 may be powered off by a consumer manually powering device 100 off by pressing control button 138. Additionally or alternatively, device 100 may be powered off if battery monitoring system 312 determines that device 100 has entered a low battery state. If cool-down system 300 determines that device 100 has not been powered off, method 600 returns to conditional step 622, where cool-down system 300 may determine whether refresh timer 324 has expired.

[0117] If, in conditional step 628, cool-down system 300 determines that device 100 is powered off, method 600 proceeds to step 630, where second hold-off timer 328 may be started by processor 302. Second hold-off timer 328 may be configured to measure a second hold-off time. The second hold-off time may be the time that communication screen 136 displays first power-off icon 412 and second power-off icon 413 or indication after control button 138 is pressed to manually power off device 100.

[0118] After starting the second hold-off timer 328 in step 630, the method 600 proceeds to step 632, where the cool-down system 300 may be configured to display at least one power-off icon, such as a first power-off icon 412 and a second power-off icon 413, on the communication screen 136. The first power-off icon 412 and / or the second power-off icon 413 may be a symbol or message that may be displayed to inform the consumer that the control button 138 has been pressed to power off the device 100. More specifically, the first power-off icon 412 may be displayed while the consumer is pressing the control button 138. The second power-off icon 413 may be displayed after the consumer presses the control button 138 a second time to confirm that the device 100 should be powered off.

[0119] After the first power off icon 412 and the second power off icon 413 are displayed in step 632, the method 600 may proceed to conditional step 634. In conditional step 634, the cool down system 300 may determine whether the second hold-off timer 328 has expired. If the second hold-off timer 328 has not expired, the method 600 may return to step 632 and either the power off icon 412 or the second power off icon 413 may continue to be displayed.

[0120] If the cool-down system 300 determines that the second hold-off timer 328 has elapsed, the method 600 proceeds to step 636, where the cool-down system 300 may be configured to display a cool-down recognition icon 414. The cool-down recognition icon 414 may indicate that the cool-down system 300 is still operating after the control button 138 has been pressed. The cool-down recognition icon 414 may also indicate to the consumer that they should not remove the capsule 214 from the device 100 because the device 100 may still be too hot for this purpose.

[0121] After the cool-down recognition icon 414 is displayed in step 636, the method 600 proceeds to conditional step 638, where the cool-down system 300 may be configured to determine whether the cool-down timer 322 has expired. If the cool-down timer 322 has not expired, the method 600 may return to step 636 and continue to display the cool-down recognition icon 414.

[0122] If the cool-down system 300 determines that the cool-down timer 322 has elapsed, the method 600 may proceed to step 640, where the communication screen 136 may be turned off. When the communication screen 136 is turned off, the communication screen 136 may not display any lights, icons, etc. Once the communication screen 136 is turned off, the method 600 may end with the device 100 being powered off.

[0123] In some embodiments, if device 100 enters a fault state at any time during method 600, fault icon 416 may be displayed on communication screen 136. Cool-down system 300 may continue to operate cool-down timer 322 while fault icon 416 is displayed on communication screen 136. Fault icon 416 may be displayed on communication screen 136 until the fault is corrected. If the fault is corrected, cool-down system 300 may return to normal operation of method 600 and display the appropriate icons of FIGS. 4A-4G to indicate the status of cool-down system 300 and method 600.

[0124] 7, a method 700 of operation of device 100 when lid 104 is opened is shown. Method 700 may begin when lid 104 of device 100 is opened. Once lid 104 is opened, method 700 may proceed to conditional step 702, where it may determine whether a session is in progress. In some embodiments, determining whether a session is in progress may be made by determining whether processor 302 and / or memory 304 of cool-down system 300 has set session-in-progress flag 321. If session-in-progress flag 321 is set, a session for device 100 may be in progress; if session-in-progress flag 321 is not set, device 100 may not have an active session in progress.

[0125] If, at conditional step 702, processor 302 determines that there is no active session in progress, method 700 may proceed to conditional step 704, where it may determine whether cool-down timer 322 of cool-down system 300 is active. If cool-down timer 322 is active, it may not be ideal for lid 104 of device 100 to be in the open position, as capsule 214 may be too warm for the consumer to touch. If cool-down timer 322 is not active, method 700 may end with processor 302 returning device 100 to normal operation, leaving device 100 in the state it was in when method 700 began.

[0126] If cool-down timer 322 is active, method 700 may proceed to step 706. In step 706, cool-down timer 322 or other timers of cool-down system 300 may be stopped. Cool-down timer 322 and other timers associated with cool-down system 300 may be stopped because they are used to track the optimal time for the consumer to open the lid 104 of the device. Once the lid 104 of device 100 is opened, the additional timers of cool-down timer 322 and timer 320 are no longer needed because lid 104 is already open.

[0127] After stopping the cool-down timer 322 and any additional timers in step 706, the method 700 may proceed to step 708, where the contact actuator 316 may be activated. Further, if in conditional step 702 the processor 302 determines that a session is in progress, the method 700 may proceed to step 708. In some embodiments, the contact actuator 316 may be configured to vibrate in a vibration pattern such as vibrating three consecutive times if the lid 104 is opened while the cool-down timer 322 is active. A consumer may be warned that the device 100 may not be in an ideal condition to open the lid 104 if they feel the device 100 vibrate when the contact actuator 316 is activated. When the contact actuator 316 is activated, the consumer may be warned not to touch the capsule 214 because the lid 104 of the device 100 has already been opened.

[0128] After the touch actuator 316 is actuated in step 708, the method may proceed to step 710, where a warning icon 404 is displayed on the communication screen 136. The warning icon 404 may indicate to the consumer that the device 100 may not be at an appropriate or comfortable temperature for the consumer to touch the capsule 214, but that the cool-down system 300 has stopped the cool-down timer 322 and any additional timers in the cool-down system 300.

[0129] After the cool-down warning is displayed in step 710, method 700 may end by returning device 100 to normal operation. In some embodiments, returning device 100 to normal operation may be leaving device 100 in the state it was in when method 700 began.

[0130] The systems, devices, and methods described herein may provide significant advantages. The cool-down system 300 may provide additional communication to adult consumers regarding the status of the device 100. For example, the cool-down system 300 may display one or more icons on the communication screen 136 that indicate to the consumer when it is OK to remove the capsule 214 of the device 100 from the device 100. The cool-down system 300 may alert the consumer when the device 100 is too hot to handle safely, allowing the consumer to comfortably enjoy the device 100.

[0131] The appended claims define novel and inventive aspects of the subject matter described above, but the claims may also encompass additional subject matter not specifically recited. For example, certain features, elements, or aspects may be omitted from the claims if they are not necessary to distinguish the novel and inventive features from those already known to those skilled in the art. Also, features, elements, and aspects described in the context of certain embodiments may be omitted, combined, or replaced with alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cool-down system for an apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; a memory coupled to the at least one processor for storing instructions; The at least one processor executes the instructions to provide the cool-down system with: Detect when a session has ended, Activates the cooldown timer associated with the cooldown time, providing an indication of the time remaining on the cool-down timer; A cool-down system configured to return the device to normal operation upon expiration of the cool-down time.

2. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to obtain a signal from a control button, the signal indicating that the device has been powered off and the session has ended.

3. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to obtain a signal from a mechanism detection switch, the signal indicating that a lid mechanism has been opened and the session has ended.

4. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to obtain a signal from a charging connection, the signal indicating that the device is connected to a charger and that the session has ended.

5. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to obtain a signal from a battery monitoring system, the signal indicating that the device has entered a low battery state and the session has ended.

6. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to detect that the device is in a fault state, the fault state indicating that the session has ended.

7. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a warning icon on a user interface of the device if a lid mechanism of the device is opened while the cool-down timer is active.

8. 10. The processor of claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a cool-down warning icon if the session is in progress and a lid mechanism of the device is opened before the cool-down timer is activated.

9. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to activate a refresh timer after the cool-down timer is activated.

10. 10. The cool-down system of claim 9, The cool-down system, wherein the refresh timer is configured to measure a refresh time and to reset if the cool-down timer is active when the refresh time has elapsed, and the refresh time is less than the cool-down time.

11. 11. The cool-down system of claim 10, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to refresh a timer icon when the refresh time has elapsed.

12. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a capsule removal icon on the user interface of the device when the cool-down time has elapsed, the capsule removal icon indicating that the capsule of the device can be removed.

13. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to operate a hold-off timer for a hold-off time and to display a system icon on a user interface of the device while the cool-down timer is operating.

14. 14. The cool-down system of claim 13, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a cool-down recognition icon after the hold-off time has elapsed.

15. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to activate a hold-off timer for a hold-off time and display a power-off indication if the device is powered off while the cool-down timer is active.

16. 16. The cool-down system of claim 15, The at least one processor is configured to execute the instructions to cause the cool-down system to display a cool-down recognition icon after the hold-off time has elapsed and until the cool-down timer has elapsed.

17. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, A cool-down system, wherein the cool-down time is based on a session length of the device.

18. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The cool down system further includes a temperature sensor.

19. 20. The cool-down system of claim 18, The cool-down system, wherein the cool-down time is based on a temperature measured by the temperature sensor.

20. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, A cool down system, wherein the cool down timer is activated when the heater of the device or a consumable of the device heats up to a minimum threshold.

21. 21. The cool-down system of claim 20, A cool down system, wherein the minimum threshold is that the heater is heated for at least 10 seconds.

22. 21. The cool-down system of claim 20, A cool down system wherein the minimum threshold is at least 60 joules of energy input to the heater.

23. 2. The cool-down system according to claim 1, The at least one processor executes the instructions to cause the cool-down system to set a session-in-progress flag when the session starts; A cool-down system configured to cause the session-in-progress flag to be cleared when the session ends.

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