Fragrance switching mechanism for fragrance diffusers compatible with multiple fragrance cartridges

Abstract

A fragrance switching device is provided. The fragrance switching device includes an air guide, an outer barrel, and an inner barrel rotatable within the outer barrel. An angled disc is fixed to the inner barrel. The inner and outer barrels include a group of air inlets and a group of air outlets that align with the air guide to form an air circuit based on the positions of the inner barrel and the angled disc relative to the outer barrel. Furthermore, the aroma device may include a fragrance cartridge and a fragrance switching mechanism. The fragrance cartridge may include a cavity and a ventilation hole. A gasket is located on the outside of the case and surrounds the ventilation hole. A solid fragrance is housed in the cavity. The fragrance cartridge includes a cover that closes the case and secures the solid fragrance within the cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Existing aroma diffuser / device technologies have a simple structure. For example, existing aroma diffusers contain a chamber for storing perfume. The perfume cannot be removed. The perfume may be only a single fragrance and is non-replaceable. As another example, existing aromatherapy devices contain a detachable cartridge that contains a single fragrance and cannot be adjusted according to different situations or user habits. Furthermore, in order to replace the detachable cartridge, existing aromatherapy devices must first be completely stopped in order to remove the exterior of any device, or the outer shell inside, which is very inconvenient. A solution is needed.

Background Art

[0002] According to one or more embodiments, a fragrance switching mechanism is provided. The fragrance switching mechanism includes an outer barrel and an inner barrel rotatable within the outer barrel. The fragrance switching mechanism includes an angle disk fixed to the inner barrel and one or more air guides. The inner barrel and the outer barrel are aligned with one or more air guides to form one or more air circuits based on the position of the inner barrel and the angle disk relative to the outer barrel, including a population of one or more air inlets and a population of one or more air outlets.

[0003] According to one or more embodiments, an aroma device is provided. The aroma device includes one or more fragrance cartridges and one or more cartridge reading devices configured to identify one or more fragrance cartridges. The aroma device includes a fragrance switching mechanism configured to select one of the one or more fragrance cartridges and an air outlet configured to be connected to an air conditioning system and provide scented air based on the one cartridge selected by the fragrance switching mechanism.

[0004] In one or more embodiments, the fragrance cartridge includes a case. The case includes a cavity and one or more ventilation holes. The fragrance cartridge includes a gasket located on the outside of the case and surrounding one or more ventilation holes. The fragrance cartridge includes a solid fragrance contained within the cavity of the case. The fragrance cartridge includes a cover configured to close the case and secure the solid fragrance within the cavity. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0005] A more detailed understanding can be obtained from the following explanation, which is provided as an example along with the attached drawings.

[0006] [Figure 1A] A diagram of a fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1B] A diagram of a fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1C] A diagram of a fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1D] A diagram of a fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1E] A diagram of a fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1F] A diagram of a fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1G] A diagram of a fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1H] A diagram of a fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 2A] An exemplary implementation example of the fragrance switching mechanism shown in Figures 1A to H according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 2B] An exemplary implementation example of the fragrance switching mechanism shown in Figures 1A to H according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 2C] An exemplary implementation example of the fragrance switching mechanism shown in Figures 1A to H according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 2D] An exemplary implementation example of the fragrance switching mechanism shown in Figures 1A to H according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 2E] An exemplary implementation example of the fragrance switching mechanism shown in Figures 1A to H according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 3] A system according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 4A] Figures 1A to H show the fragrance switching mechanism according to one or more embodiments, and Figure 3 shows an exploded view of a part of the system. [Figure 4B] A schematic diagram of the selection of a cartridge using the fragrance switching mechanism shown in Figures 1A to H and the system shown in Figure 3, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the operation of the fragrance switching mechanism shown in Figures 1A to H and the system shown in Figure 3, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 6A] Exploded view of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 6B] Exploded view of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 7A] A diagram of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 7B] A diagram of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 7C] A diagram of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 7D] A diagram of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 7E] A diagram of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 7F] A diagram of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 7G] A diagram of a cartridge according to one or more embodiments.

[0007] For the sake of brevity and ease of understanding, similar elements and items in drawings are given the same or similar numbered identifiers. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] In one or more embodiments, the subject matter described herein is a fragrance switching mechanism and a system for diffusing fragrances utilizing a plurality of fragrance cartridges. In one or more embodiments described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism and system may include at least an inner barrel, an outer barrel, an air guide, an angle disc, and an angle sensor. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism and system may include an aroma device box having remote and / or voice control, comprising a single fragrance switching mechanism, one or more replaceable fragrance cartridges, and an independent memory chip for each fragrance cartridge. The aroma device box may be incorporated into a vehicle, such as being installed in the passenger seat or a storage box, and may include a piping design integrated with the vehicle's air conditioning system. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of fragrance cartridges may engage with the fragrance switching mechanism and system as independent fragrance cartridges having individual smart memory chips and solid-state fragrances. Each independent fragrance cartridge may have a sealable protective cap.

[0009] Figures 1A to 1H show illustrations of a fragrance switching mechanism 101 according to one or more embodiments. Figure 1A shows an exploded view of the fragrance switching mechanism 101. The fragrance switching mechanism 101 includes an inner barrel 110, an outer barrel 120, one or more air guides 130, an angle disk 140, an angle sensor 150, a centrifugal fan 160, a stepper motor 170, and one or more cartridges 180. Note that one or more air guides 130 may be connected to one or more cartridges 180.

[0010] FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of the flavor switching mechanism 101. FIG. 1C shows a rear view. FIG. 1D shows a front view. FIG. 1E shows a bottom view. FIG. 1F shows a top view. FIG. 1G shows a side view. FIG. 1H shows another side view. All the figures show the inside of the housing or main casing shown in the later figures.

[0011] The inner barrel 110 may be a hollow cylinder or a hollow cone having an outer surface that fits inside the outer barrel 120. The inner barrel 110 may rotate freely within the outer barrel 120. The inner barrel 110 may include a wall that divides the inner barrel 110 into two parts, such as a front part and a rear part. According to one or more embodiments, the wall may typically be in the middle of the inner barrel 110 and may divide the inner barrel 110 into two equal parts.

[0012] The outer barrel 120 may be a hollow cylinder or a hollow cone having an inner surface that fits around the inner barrel 110. The outer barrel 120 may be fitted outside the inner barrel 110. According to one or more embodiments, the outer barrel 120 may be fixed on the housing or main casing (shown in later figures). The outer barrel 120 may be connected to one or more air guides 130 and may include an air hole 185, thereby guiding air to / from one or more cartridges 180.

[0013] It should be noted that the fragrance switching mechanism 101 includes multiple groups of air inlets and outlets (generally represented by air holes 185) dispersed therein. Based on the position of the inner barrel 110 relative to the outer barrel 120, different air inlets and outlets may be aligned to form different air passages. For example, the inner barrel 110 may include one or more groups of air inlets and one or more groups of air outlets, and the outer barrel 120 may include one or more groups of air inlets and one or more groups of air outlets. For example, the inner barrel 110 includes one or more air holes, each of any size and / or any shape such as round, square or other. One or more air holes may have the same shape and / or the same size. Furthermore, as the inner barrel 110 rotates, different vents or air passages may be configured by the fragrance switching mechanism 101. Therefore, the rear portion of the inner barrel 110 may include air holes, and the front portion of the inner barrel 110 may also include air holes.

[0014] One or more air guides 130 may be fixed to the outside of the outer barrel 120 that guides air into and out of one or more cartridges 180. Each air guide 130 may correspond to one specific loading position in one or more cartridges 180. As shown in Figure 1A, the first air guide 130A corresponds to cartridge 180A, and the second air guide 130C corresponds to cartridge 180C. As shown in Figure 1B, the air hole 185B corresponds to cartridge 180B. Each air guide 130 may include two channels, such as an inlet channel and an outlet channel. Each channel may be aligned with a ventilation hole in the cartridge 180.

[0015] The angle disk 140 may be a thin disk. The angle disk 140 may be positioned at the end of the inner barrel 110 so as to be fixed to the inner barrel 110. The angle disk 140 may include holes in its edge, the holes of varying sizes. The holes in the angle disk 140 allow optical signals to pass through the angle disk 140. The angle disk 140 may incorporate an angle sensor 150. The angle sensor 150 may be any transducer, such as a U-shaped optical transceiver. The angle disk 140 tracks or marks angles corresponding to one or more positions of the inner barrel 110. That is, as the inner barrel 110 and the angle disk 140 rotate, the angle sensor 150 detects changes in the optical signals passing through the holes and identifies angles corresponding to the positions of the inner barrel 110. The angle may be defined in degrees, such as 0 degrees being the off position, 90 degrees being the position aligned with the first air guide 130A, 180 degrees being the position aligned with the air hole 185B, and 270 degrees being the position aligned with the second air guide 130C.

[0016] The centrifugal fan 160 may include a fan or blower to generate air pressure inside the fragrance switching mechanism 101, such as any different air passage or airway configured by the fragrance switching mechanism 101.

[0017] The stepper motor 170 is representative of any rotating device or motor. The stepper motor 170 may drive the angle disc 140 and the inner barrel 110 to one or more positions to configure different vents or air passages within the fragrance switching mechanism 101. In one or more embodiments, the inner barrel 110 is driven within the outer barrel 120 by the stepper motor 170 fixed to the inner barrel 110. That is, after the stepper motor 170 receives an instruction to select one of one or more cartridges 180, the inner barrel 110 may rotate (for example, to a specific angle). At the same time, the stepper motor 170 may drive or rotate the angle disc 140 and the inner barrel 110 together. When the angle disc 140 passes the angle sensor 150, the angle sensor 150 obtains the angle corresponding to the position of the inner barrel 110. When the angle corresponding to the desired position of the inner barrel 110 is detected by the angle sensor 150 (for example, as determined by the central control unit described later herein), the stepper motor 170 may be stopped.

[0018] One or more cartridges 180 are removable containers that may be disassembled to remove or replace the fragrance inside. One or more cartridges 180 may be mounted separately from or in the same position as the fragrance switching mechanism 101. One or more cartridges 180 may be arranged in a single plane such that one or more cartridges 180 are parallel to each other (in contrast to, for example, existing annular drum arrangement techniques), providing one or more technical advantages, benefits or compact arrangement and fixed cartridge advantages. As shown, one or more cartridges 180 are arranged on the underside of the fragrance switching mechanism 101 in order to connect with the bottom surface of the fragrance switching mechanism 101 (shown in Figure 1E).

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 provides a selection of fragrances from one or more cartridges 180 (i.e., multiple cartridges 180 are utilized by the fragrance switching mechanism 101 to provide moods). For example, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 may provide a smart-connected dry diffusion that allows the user (e.g., a car driver) to personalize the fragrance experience through the fragrance switching mechanism 101. In this regard, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 may be configured to release fragrance selections at desired intensity. For example, in the case of a car, one or more fragrance switching mechanisms 101 may be placed inside the car. Furthermore, the driver may create a unified atmosphere inside the car, or each fragrance switching mechanism 101 may be configured to provide different fragrances (e.g., unique wellness rides). Other mood or fragrance experiences include, but are not limited to, fragrance experiences for maintaining attention and awareness, fragrance experiences for relaxing during traffic jams, and fragrance experiences for eliminating odors and deodorizing the air inside a vehicle.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 includes an inner barrel 110, which is driven by a stepper motor 170 and covered by an outer barrel 120. The outer barrel 120 may be a fixed outer shield with several air ducts, each air duct connected to one or more cartridges 180. The inner barrel 110 may include axial inlet holes connected to radial holes. When a fragrance is selected, the inner barrel 110 rotates to a specific angle such that the inner holes are aligned with the outer air ducts so that a particular cartridge is connected to the fragrance switching mechanism 101. Furthermore, a centrifugal fan 160 blows air into the selected cartridge, which is mixed with the corresponding fragrance and flows out through an air outlet to achieve vigorous dispersion of the desired fragrance / fragrance.

[0021] Figures 2A-2E show exemplary installations of the fragrance switching mechanism 101 of Figures 1A-H according to one or more embodiments. An exemplary installation of the fragrance switching mechanism 101 may be a multi-cartridge fragrance supply system, such as one for automobiles. The multi-cartridge fragrance supply system provides active air volatilization, and the concentration and diffusion rate can be adjusted manually and / or automatically by remote and / or voice control.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, one or more cartridges 180 may be mounted separately from or in the same location as the fragrance switching mechanism 101. In one or more embodiments, one or more cartridges 180 and / or the fragrance switching mechanism 101 may be mounted in an aroma device box. One or more cartridges 180 are replaceable within the aroma device box. For example, depending on the user's preference (e.g., the preference of the vehicle driver or passengers), one or more cartridges 180, the fragrance switching mechanism 101, and / or the aroma device box may be mounted throughout the vehicle.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2A, the vehicle 200 may include multiple installation locations 201, 202, 203, and 204. Installation locations 201 and 202 may be located at the rear of the vehicle 200. Installation location 203 may be located on the central console 208 of the vehicle 200. Installation location 204 may be located in the passenger seat box 209 (also known as the storage box) of the vehicle 200. Other locations of the multiple installation locations 201, 202, 203, and 204 are not limited to but include locations inside the vehicle 200, behind the knee-board, inside the rear console board, and under the rear deck.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2B, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 may be located in the installation position 204 and within a housing 210 (e.g., main casing or aroma device box) connected to the hose 230 and the air conditioning piping 240. The housing 210 and / or the fragrance switching mechanism 101 may be mounted or incorporated into the passenger seat box 250 or any other location in the vehicle 200. Figures 2C-2E show one or more exemplary installations in the passenger seat or storage box of a car. As shown in Figures 2C-2E, the housing 210 containing at least one or more cartridges 180 and, in some embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 may be mounted, for example, via mounting accessories 260, to the side (Figures 2C-2D) or bottom (Figure 2E) of the passenger seat box 209 of the vehicle 200.

[0025] Returning to Figure 2B, a piping design incorporated into a vehicle air conditioning system according to one or more embodiments is shown. For example, air is supplied by hose 230 from a housing 210 located at installation position 204 in the passenger seat box 209 to the air conditioning piping 240 of the vehicle 200's air conditioning system. The fragrance / scent output from the housing 210 is then directed to the air conditioning system and distributed throughout the vehicle 200. Furthermore, hose 230 and air conditioning piping 240 may be connected by a joint located behind an air conditioning control valve upstream of the air outlet of air conditioning piping 240. In this regard, the piping design does not affect the opening and closing of the air outlet of air conditioning piping 240 and avoids the driver or passenger seeing the joint through the open air outlet. In one or more embodiments, hose 230 may terminate at an independent nozzle located at any part of the vehicle 200 to directly distribute the fragrance / scent throughout the vehicle 200.

[0026] Figure 3 shows a system 300 according to one or more embodiments. The system 300 is capable of communicating with an external terminal 305, such as a mobile terminal or an infotainment system in a vehicle 200.

[0027] The system 300 includes one or more power supply devices 311, an overcurrent protection circuit 312, an overvoltage protection circuit 313, and one or more low dropout regulators 314, 315, each of which may operate independently or together to supply power to the system 300. In one or more embodiments, the power supply device 311 may include a 12-volt power supply. In one or more embodiments, the low dropout regulator 314 may be configured at 5 volts. In one or more embodiments, the low dropout regulator 315 may be 3.3 volts.

[0028] System 300 includes a switch 320, such as a photoelectronic switch. System 300 includes one or more central control units 330, including an antenna 331 and / or device memory 332. The central control unit 330 may represent any control device, microcontroller, or similar. The antenna 331 may represent any wireless transmission module. The device memory 332 may include software and / or firmware executable by the central control unit 330 for providing active air volatilization by controlling concentration and diffusion rate, which can be adjusted automatically and / or remotely or by voice control. Exemplary operation of the central control unit 330 includes, but is not limited to, transmitting commands to operate the fragrance switching mechanism 101.

[0029] System 300 includes an ionization module 350. The ionization module 350 is shown with a dashed line in Figure 3 to indicate that this element is optional. The ionization module 350 may be operated to purify the air and remove odors. The ionization module 350 may be fixed to the fragrance switching mechanism 101.

[0030] The system 300 includes one or more cartridge readers 361, 362, 363. Each of the one or more cartridge readers 361, 362, 363 may be associated with one or more cartridges 180. Furthermore, one or more cartridge readers 361, 362, 363 (e.g., electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) or radio frequency identification (RFID) readers) may be positioned for each site of each cartridge 180 to provide cartridge detection. One or more cartridge readers 361, 362, 363 may read each corresponding independent memory chip (e.g., smart memory chip) of one or more cartridges 180 to provide identification operations, lifetime tracking, and anti-copying protection. Note that each independent memory chip may store fragrance information, such as cartridge identification information, remaining fragrance lifetime information, and strength information, as described herein. Furthermore, it should be noted that each independent memory chip may be located on the top or bottom surface of each cartridge 180, as described herein.

[0031] System 300 includes a fan 360 (e.g., a centrifugal fan 160) and one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 382, ​​383. LEDs 382, ​​383 may indicate the operating status, such that LED 382 may indicate power, while LED 383 may indicate connection to an external terminal 305. System 300 also includes a speech recognition control device 391. Although not shown for brevity, the speech recognition control device 391 may also include memory, such as device memory 332. The memory of the speech recognition control device 391 may include executable software and / or firmware to provide remote or voice control. Exemplary operation of the central control unit 330 includes, but is not limited to, transmitting commands to operate the fragrance switching mechanism 101. The speech recognition control device 391 may be connected to a microphone 392 and a speaker 393. All elements and components of System 300, although not shown in Figure 3 for the sake of brevity, are electrically communicated via wires, twisted pair cables, shielded cables, and / or wireless connections to provide power and / or transmission signals.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the system 300 may be implemented in an aroma box having an air outlet to the vehicle air conditioning system. The aroma box may then include the system 300 (having a central control unit 330 and one or more cartridge readers 361, 362, 363), a fragrance switching mechanism 101 (having a centrifugal fan 160 or fan 360), and one or more cartridges 180. The aroma device box may also include a wireless transmission module (e.g., antenna 331) that is electrically connected to the central control unit 330 and communicates with a mobile terminal or infotainment system of the vehicle 200 (e.g., external terminal 305). The aroma device box may also include an external voice control module (e.g., speech recognition control device 391, microphone 392, and / or speaker 393) that may be mounted in a (concealed or inconspicuous) location near the driver's or passenger's seat to convert voice commands into control signals. The external voice control module may use one or more voice control protocols (e.g., AliGenie voice control protocol) stored in its memory to ensure automatic diffusion and driving safety during operation. In one or more embodiments, fragrance switching and / or on / off operations may be implemented, for example, by remote control, app operation, or voice control using an external terminal 305 (e.g., a mobile terminal or a touchscreen on the vehicle 200). Furthermore, fragrance information may be displayed on the external terminal 305.

[0033] Figure 4A shows a system 300 relating to a part 400 of the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and one or more cartridges 180, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 4B shows a schematic diagram 401 and system 300 for selecting one or more cartridges 180 by the fragrance switching mechanism 101, according to one or more embodiments.

[0034] As shown in Figures 4A-4B, in one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and system 300 may include independent fragrance cartridges 411, 412, 413 and smart memory chips 421, 422, 423. Note that each smart memory chip 421, 422, 423 may be located on the top or bottom surface of each fragrance cartridge 411, 412, 413. Operationally, the central control unit 330 receives commands 430 from an external terminal 305, such as voice or remote commands. Commands 430 specify a fragrance / scent. The central control unit 330 then matches the fragrance / scent of command 430 to the corresponding fragrance cartridge 411, 412, 413. The central control unit 330 reads the smart memory chips 421, 422, and 423 to determine which fragrance / scent is contained in which fragrance cartridge 411, 412, and 413. In other words, fragrance information (e.g., remaining fragrance capacity) is read from the smart memory chips 421, 422, and 423 by the corresponding readers and transmitted to the central control unit 330. Next, the central control unit 330 selects the corresponding fragrance cartridge 411, 412, and 413 and sends a rotation command to the stepper motor 170.

[0035] The stepper motor 170 rotates the components of the fragrance switching mechanism 101. The angle sensor 150 detects changes in the optical signal passing through the holes in the angle disk 140. For example, at the end of the angle disk 140, the angle disk 140 includes holes 450 on the edge or elsewhere. The holes 450 may have different sizes. As the inner barrel 110 and the angle disk 140 rotate, the angle sensor 150 detects / identifies / recognizes changes in the optical signal passing through the holes 450 and determines the corresponding angle signal for the position of the inner barrel 110. When the position of the inner barrel 110 matches the position of command 430, the stepper motor 170 stops as the inner barrel 110 aligns with the air channels and ventilation holes of the selected fragrance cartridge 411, 412, 413 to form an air circuit. Thus, the selected fragrance cartridge 411, 412, 413 is activated.

[0036] The central control unit 330 initiates a distribution operation. The airflow may then be generated by the centrifugal fan 170 or fan 360 to discharge the fragrance / fragrance, as controlled by the central control unit 330. After the distribution operation, the central control unit 330 may use a corresponding reader and chip to determine and record the amount of fragrance consumed and / or the number of operations, which may be recorded on the device memory 332 or on a corresponding chip (for example, before another of the fragrance cartridges 411, 412, or 413 is selected).

[0037] In one or more embodiments, when any cartridge 180 is inserted and / or after a specified time has elapsed, the smart memory chips 421, 422, 423 are read by the system to determine fragrance information (e.g., the amount of remaining fragrance corresponding to the air duct at each angle). In one or more embodiments, when any cartridge 180 is removed or the fragrance / scent is depleted, the selection of cartridge 180 may be signaled to an external terminal 305 and / or one of the LEDs 382, ​​383 via a wireless transmission module. In one or more embodiments, the scent switching mechanism 101 and system 300 may provide remote and voice control, a rotating scent switching mechanism, recognition of photoelectric position signals, installation in the passenger seat or storage box, integration with the air conditioning system, independent fragrance cartridges, and smart fragrance memory chips.

[0038] Figure 5 shows a diagram 500 of the operation of the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and system 300 according to one or more embodiments. For example, airflow 505 enters from the rear of the inner barrel 110 near the stepper motor 170, passes through the air hole 506, and flows into the outer barrel 120. When the outer barrel 120 has an air hole 515 aligned with the air hole 506, airflow 505 passes through the air hole 515 of the outer barrel 120 and the connecting guide 530 of one or more air guides 130. After passing through the ventilation hole 535 (inlet) of the corresponding fragrance cartridge 411 (i.e., a selected one from fragrance cartridges 411, 412, or 413), airflow 540 is mixed with the fragrance of the corresponding fragrance cartridge 411 to supply scented air from the ventilation hole 550 (outlet). Note that fragrance cartridges 412 and 413 are not selected in this example.

[0039] After being discharged from the ventilation holes 550 of the corresponding fragrance cartridge 411, the scented air 545 travels through the air holes 555 of the outer barrel 120 and then through the air holes 556 at the front end of the inner barrel 110. As shown, the front ends of the inner barrel 110 and the outer barrel 120 are aligned. Furthermore, the inlet of the centrifugal fan 160 receives the scented air 545, so that the scented air 545 may be released by the centrifugal fan 160 as fragrance / fragrance 560.

[0040] For example, under the negative pressure of the centrifugal fan 160, the scented air 545 is drawn out and released through the system air channels. When the position of the inner barrel 110 coincides with the position of the command 430, the stepper motor 170 stops as the inner barrel 110 aligns with the air channels and the ventilation holes of selected fragrance cartridges 411, 412, 413 to form an air circuit. The inner barrel 110, the outer barrel 120, the air guide 130, and selected one or more cartridges 180 are coupled together to form an air circuit such that the airflow 505, 540, 545, 560 created by the centrifugal fan 160 is discharged as fragrance 560.

[0041] Figures 6A-6B show illustrations of cartridge 600 according to one or more embodiments. Figure 6A shows cartridge 600 with cap 611 removed, and Figure 6B shows exploded view of cartridge 600 according to one or more embodiments. Furthermore, Figures 7A-7G show illustrations of cartridge 701 according to one or more embodiments. Figure 7A shows a perspective view. Figure 7B shows a rear view, Figure 7C shows a front view. Figure 7D shows a bottom view. Figure 7E shows a top view. Figure 7F shows a side view. Figure 7G shows another side view. All figures show the inside of the housing or main casing shown in subsequent figures. While cartridges 601, 700 may be modified by design, the cartridges described herein include at least one or more sealable protective caps, fragrances, smart tips, and sealing gaskets. Furthermore, cartridges 600 and 701 have independent structures, each containing a different fragrance, and may be installed, for example, simultaneously or in parallel, within the aroma device box. The fragrance in cartridges 600 and 701 may be a solid fragrance that does not spill when shaken and does not stain surrounding objects.

[0042] For example, the cartridge 600 in Figure 6A includes a cap 611 (e.g., a resealable protective cap), a gasket 612 (e.g., a sealing gasket), and a chip 613 (e.g., a smart chip). The cartridge 600 contains a fragrance (e.g., a fragrance in solid form). The gasket 612 may include a rubber material to provide a seal. In one or more embodiments, when the cartridge 600 is removed from the aroma device box, the cap 611 may be placed on the cartridge 600 to seal the cartridge for independent storage and prevent leakage of the fragrance (e.g., a sealing cover for the cartridge). The chip 613 may be configured to record fragrance information and anti-counterfeiting information.

[0043] As another example, the cartridge 600 in Figure 6B includes a cap 611 (e.g., a resealable protective cap), a gasket 612 (e.g., a sealing gasket), a case 623, a fragrance 624 (e.g., a fragrance in solid form), a cover 625, and a tip 613. Because the fragrance 624 is replaceable, the cartridge 600 includes a removable cover 625. The case 623 includes ventilation holes 667 and a tip 613 on its surface. In one or more embodiments, the ventilation holes 667 (i.e., inlet and outlet) are located on the same side of the cartridge 600, providing one or more technical advantages, benefits or the advantages of compact arrangement and fixed cartridge, such as being coplanar (e.g., in contrast to existing technologies). The tip 613 includes fragrance information, such as cartridge identification, remaining fragrance life, and information about the fragrance 624. Fragrance 624 may include a solid fragrance contained within the cavity of the case to provide a specific scent. To implement cartridge sealing, the outer surface of case 623 may include or have embedded gasket 612, which may be a soft rubber gasket around the ventilation holes 667. When cartridge 600 is installed in system 300, gasket 612 fits into fragrance switching mechanism 101, which has a compression amount that seals cartridge 600 from air leakage. Whether system 300 is operating or stopped, there is no loss of fragrance due to gasket 612. When cartridge 600 is removed from system 300, cap 611 may be used to cover ventilation holes 667 (e.g., to fit with and compress with the gasket to prevent fragrance leakage).

[0044] In one or more embodiments, each cartridge 600, 701 (examples of cartridges 180, 411, 412, 413 are shown) may be a small, independently sealable fragrance cartridge characterized by a high-strength resin shell (e.g., case 623) having an air inlet and an outlet window (e.g., ventilation hole 667), and a gasket (e.g., gasket 612) made of a flexible material surrounding the air inlet and outlet window.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, when no cartridge is in use, a specially designed protective cap (e.g., cap 611) may be used to cover the air vents (e.g., vents 667) and the memory chip (e.g., chip 613) to protect the cartridge and prevent leakage of the fragrance (e.g., fragrance 624). In contrast to existing technologies, the fragrance material (e.g., fragrance 624) is in a solid state. The inner surface of the protective cap (cap 611) may match the cartridge body (e.g., case 623), and the two may be fitted together. The protective cap (e.g., cap 611) and the cartridge body (e.g., case 623) may be fitted together via grooves or hooks that further compress a sealing gasket (e.g., gasket 612) to prevent leakage of the fragrance (e.g., fragrance 624) and close the air inlet and air outlet (e.g., vents 667). The protective cap (e.g., cap 611) may have a vertical end cover to protect the memory chip (e.g., chip 613) to prevent it from being damaged and corroded when the cartridge is not engaged with the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300.

[0046] In one or more embodiments, the size and position of the air inlet and outlet (e.g., ventilation holes 667) may be set so that the fragrance (e.g., fragrance 624) in the cartridge (e.g., case 623) may come into complete contact with and mix with the passing air, thereby maximizing the efficiency of fragrance / fragrance release. The fragrance (e.g., fragrance 624) may be porous particles or block carriers. The fragrance (e.g., fragrance 624) may be in a solid state during daily storage and dispersion to avoid vibration and spillage during transport and to avoid staining fabrics or car interiors. The fragrance (e.g., fragrance 624) may have molecular-level particles that are not contaminated with dust and do not cause respiratory discomfort when diffused.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, the material of the sealing gasket (e.g., gasket 612) may be a silicone rubber of a specific density or a highly elastic foamed material that maintains dimensional stability even after long-term use. In this way, the sealing gasket (e.g., gasket 612) may guarantee a certain level of sealing performance throughout the product life cycle.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the smart memory chip (e.g., chip 613) may be a contact chip such as an EEPROM chip or a contactless chip such as an RFID chip. In one or more embodiments, the smart memory chip (e.g., chip 613) may include an erase protection function and an encryption function. Thus, the read and write stability of the smart memory chip (e.g., chip 613) may be guaranteed during daily use in operating environments where vibration, high temperature, and / or high humidity occur. In one or more embodiments, the smart memory chip (e.g., chip 613) may include encryption so that only compatible fragrance switching mechanisms 101 and / or systems 300 can use the cartridge. In other cases, such as illegal reading, the smart memory chip (e.g., chip 613) may be automatically locked to protect information and product security.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 may be used in automobiles. That is, with the popularity of cars, people are using them more and more in their daily lives. As people spend more time in their cars, more and more people (i.e., drivers and passengers) may experience claustrophobia, boredom, frustration, fatigue, physical discomfort, and / or mental discomfort due to the enclosed and vibrating nature of cars (which may threaten driving safety). The fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 may release a specific fragrance into the air to refresh the air, adjust the atmosphere inside the car, and improve the mood of the driver and passengers. In some cases, the fragrance may be used to eliminate viruses. Accordingly, one or more technical effects and benefits of the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 include providing an alternative to existing technologies such as dry diffusion technology (e.g., passive systems having oily fragrance diffusers that produce droplets containing solvents that may react with interior components, causing corrosion of the interior), which may provide a selection of a single fragrance from multiple options based on one or more factors (e.g., strength, mood of use, properties of fragrance components, avoidance of nasal olfactory dysfunction, etc.).

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 may provide a reusable smart fragrance cartridge for use in a car or home. It is estimated that people remember 15% of what they see and 35% of what they smell. Odor memory is the most persistent memory. That is, memories, imaginations, past emotions, and associations are more easily accessed through the sense of smell than through any other channel. That is, since fragrances can tell stories (i.e., the associations of a fragrance can evoke memories such as mentally transporting a person to their grandmother's garden), one or more technological implications and benefits of the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 include combining neuroscience and mechanical engineering to provide a smart aroma solution that makes all fragrance molecules a memorable experience. Therefore, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 overcome the problems and / or drawbacks of existing technologies such as liquid perfume oil (i.e., the particles released by liquid perfume oil are very large, easily stick to the interior of a car and to the surface of fabric, cause respiratory discomfort such as coughing and sneezing, and float in the air while absorbing bacteria and contaminants that pose a risk to people's health). The problems and / or drawbacks of existing technologies include the structure that houses the liquid perfume oil, which cannot be removed in existing technologies, the fragrance of existing technologies, which cannot be replaced with a different fragrance, and / or existing technologies that leak during use or storage because they do not have a sealing function.

[0051] In one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 may have its own fragrance release to prevent olfactory dulling for the enjoyment and benefit of "always on". In one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 may provide fragrance switching between multiple fragrance cartridges installed simultaneously. In one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 may be equipped with telephone or voice control so that the user can easily change fragrances at any time without touching the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300, providing a convenient and comfortable experience for the user.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, the fragrance switching mechanism 101 and / or system 300 may be implemented in applications of automotive deodorizers (e.g., in-car air deodorizers or truck driver's cab air deodorizers), handheld fragrance diffusers, desktop fragrance diffusers, and / or remotely controlled pet deodorizers.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, a fragrance switching mechanism is provided. The fragrance switching mechanism includes an outer barrel and an inner barrel rotatable within the outer barrel. The fragrance switching mechanism includes an angled disc fixed to the inner barrel and one or more air guides. The inner barrel and outer barrel include one or more groups of air inlets and one or more groups of air outlets, which align with one or more air guides to form one or more air circuits based on the positions of the inner barrel and angled disc relative to the outer barrel.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may include an inner barrel, an outer barrel, and a housing for an angled disc.

[0055] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, each of the one or more air guides may correspond to a separate position of the inner barrel and angle disc relative to the outer barrel.

[0056] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may include an angle sensor configured to track holes in one or more angle disks.

[0057] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may include a centrifugal fan configured to generate air pressure within the fragrance switching mechanism.

[0058] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may include a stepper motor configured to drive an angled disc and an inner barrel for rotation.

[0059] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism is configured to connect to one or more cartridges, each of which contains a fragrance in solid form.

[0060] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, one or more cartridges may be arranged parallel to each other on the same plane.

[0061] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism of this specification, each of the one or more cartridges may include inlet and outlet ventilation holes located on the same surface.

[0062] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, each of the one or more cartridges comprises a cap configured to seal the corresponding cartridge.

[0063] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism of this specification, each of the one or more cartridges may include a memory chip for storing fragrance information.

[0064] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, each memory chip may be located on the top or bottom surface of the corresponding cartridge.

[0065] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the inner barrel includes a hollow cylinder or hollow cone having an outer surface that fits into the outer barrel.

[0066] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any fragrance switching mechanism of this specification, a hollow cylinder or hollow cone having an inner surface which may be fitted around an inner barrel.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the angle disc may incorporate an angle sensor that detects the position of the inner barrel relative to the outer barrel and the position of the angle disc.

[0068] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may provide a selection of one fragrance from one or more cartridges.

[0069] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may include a central control unit configured to instruct a stepper motor to drive an inner barrel based on a comparison of detected angles of angle discs having a specific angle.

[0070] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may be located within a housing that is positioned in a vehicle.

[0071] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may include one or more cartridge readers configured to identify one or more cartridges.

[0072] In one or more embodiments, or any fragrance switching mechanism described herein, the fragrance switching mechanism may include one or more cartridge readers configured to read fragrance information from the tips of one or more cartridges.

[0073] In one or more embodiments, an aroma device is provided. The aroma device includes one or more cartridges and one or more cartridge readers configured to identify one or more fragrance cartridges. The aroma device includes a fragrance switching mechanism configured to select one of the one or more cartridges and an air outlet connected to an air conditioning system and configured to provide scented air based on the one cartridge selected by the fragrance switching mechanism.

[0074] In one or more embodiments, or any aroma device of this specification, each of the one or more cartridge readers may include an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) or radio frequency identification (RFID) reader positioned for each site of one or more fragrance cartridges.

[0075] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any aroma device of this specification, each of the one or more cartridges may include a memory chip for storing fragrance information.

[0076] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any aroma device of this specification, the corresponding cartridge may be located on the top or bottom surface.

[0077] In one or more embodiments, or any aroma device described herein, the aroma device may include a central control unit and a communication module that are communicatively connected to an external terminal.

[0078] In one or more embodiments, or any aroma device of this specification, the aroma device may include a voice control module that uses one or more voice control protocols for operating the aroma device.

[0079] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any aroma device herein, one or more fragrance cartridges may be arranged parallel to each other on the same plane.

[0080] In one or more embodiments, or any aroma device of this specification, each of the one or more fragrance cartridges may include inlet and outlet ventilation holes arranged on the same surface.

[0081] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any aroma device herein, each of the one or more fragrance cartridges may include a cap configured to seal the corresponding cartridge.

[0082] In one or more embodiments, or any aroma device of this specification, the fragrance switching mechanism may include an outer barrel, an inner barrel rotatable within the outer barrel, an angled disc fixed to the inner barrel, and one or more air guides. The inner and outer barrels include one or more groups of air inlets and one or more groups of air outlets, which align with one or more air guides to form one or more air circuits, together with one selected cartridge from one or more fragrance cartridges, and air outlets based on the position of the inner barrel and angled disc relative to the outer barrel.

[0083] In one or more embodiments, the fragrance cartridge includes a case. The case may include a cavity and one or more ventilation holes. The fragrance cartridge is located on the outside of the case and includes a gasket surrounding one or more ventilation holes. The fragrance cartridge contains a solid fragrance contained within the cavity of the case. The fragrance cartridge includes a cover configured to close the case and secure the solid fragrance in the cavity.

[0084] In one or more embodiments, or relating to any fragrance cartridge herein, the fragrance cartridge may include a cap configured to seal the case with a compression gasket.

[0085] In one or more embodiments, or relating to any fragrance cartridge herein, the cover may be removable to allow replacement of the fragrance in solid form.

[0086] In one or more embodiments, or relating to any fragrance cartridge herein, the fragrance cartridge may include a chip located on the outside of the case that stores fragrance information.

[0087] In one or more embodiments, or relating to any fragrance cartridge herein, the tip may be located on the top or bottom surface of the corresponding cartridge.

[0088] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any fragrance cartridge of this specification, the gasket may include a rubber gasket.

[0089] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any fragrance cartridge herein, the fragrance cartridges may be arranged parallel to and coplanar with at least one other fragrance cartridge.

[0090] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any fragrance cartridge herein, one or more ventilation holes may include inlet and outlet ventilation holes located on the same surface of the fragrance cartridge.

[0091] In one or more embodiments, or with respect to any fragrance cartridge herein, the outside of the case may be configured to connect to an air guide or air hole of a fragrance switching mechanism.

[0092] In one or more embodiments, or relating to any fragrance cartridge herein, the cover may be removable to allow loading or replacement of a solid fragrance in the cavity.

[0093] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, embodiments of the present invention may be designed in software using a hardware description language (HDL), such as Verilog or VHDL, based on the description herein. The HDL design may model the operation of an electronic system, and the design may be synthesized and ultimately manufactured into a hardware device. Furthermore, the HDL design may be stored in a computer product and loaded into a computer system before hardware manufacturing.

[0094] Having provided detailed descriptions of the embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand, in consideration of this description, that the embodiments described herein may be modified without departing from the spirit of this specification. Therefore, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments shown and described.

[0095] Terms such as First, Second, Third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, but it is understood that these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the invention, the First element may be referred to as the Second element, and the Second element may be referred to as the First element. As used herein, the terms “and / or” may include any one or more of the related enumerated items, and all combinations thereof.

[0096] When an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is referred to as existing “on top of” or extending “upwards” another element, it is understood that it may exist directly on the other element, extend directly onto it, or have intermediate elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as existing “directly on top of” another element or extending “directly upwards” another element, there may be no intermediate elements. When an element is referred to as being “connected” or “linked” to another element, it is also understood that it may be directly connected or linked to the other element, or connected or linked via one or more intermediate elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected” or “directly linked” to another element, there are no intermediate elements between that element and the other element. These terms are intended to include different directions of elements, in addition to any directions shown in the diagram.

[0097] Relative terms such as “down,” “up,” “above,” “downward,” “horizontal,” or “vertical” may be used herein to describe the relationship between one element, layer, or region and another, as illustrated in the figures. These terms are understood to include different orientations of the apparatus in addition to the orientations shown in the figures.

Claims

1. Outer barrel and An inner barrel that is rotatable within the outer barrel, The angle disc fixed to the inner barrel, Equipped with one or more air guides, A fragrance switching mechanism comprising one or more groups of air inlets and one or more groups of air outlets, which align with the one or more air guides to form one or more air circuits based on the positions of the inner barrel and the angle disc relative to the outer barrel.

2. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising a housing that accommodates the outer barrel, the inner barrel, and the angle disc.

3. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, wherein each of the one or more air guides corresponds to the individual positions of the inner barrel and the angle disc relative to the outer barrel.

4. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising an angle sensor configured to track one or more holes in the angle disk.

5. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising a centrifugal fan configured to generate air pressure within the fragrance switching mechanism.

6. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising a stepper motor configured to drive the angle disk and the inner barrel for rotation.

7. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the fragrance switching mechanism is configured to connect to one or more cartridges, and each of the one or more cartridges contains a fragrance in solid form.

8. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 7, wherein one or more of the aforementioned cartridges are arranged parallel to each other on the same plane.

9. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 7, wherein each of the one or more cartridges is provided with ventilation holes for an inlet and an outlet, which are located on the same surface.

10. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 7, wherein each of the one or more cartridges comprises a cap configured to seal the corresponding cartridge.

11. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 7, wherein each of the one or more cartridges comprises a memory chip for storing fragrance information.

12. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 11, wherein each memory chip is located on the top or bottom surface of the corresponding cartridge.

13. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the inner barrel comprises a hollow cylinder or hollow cone having an outer surface that fits into the outer barrel.

14. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the outer barrel comprises a hollow cylinder or hollow cone having an inner surface that fits around the inner barrel.

15. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the angle disc has a built-in angle sensor that detects the position of the inner barrel and the angle disc relative to the outer barrel.

16. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the fragrance switching mechanism provides a choice of one fragrance from one or more cartridges.

17. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising a central control unit configured to command a stepper motor to drive the inner barrel based on comparing the detected angle of the angle disk having a specific angle.

18. The fragrance switching mechanism is located in a housing positioned inside the vehicle, as described in claim 1.

19. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising one or more cartridge readers configured to identify one or more cartridges.

20. The fragrance switching mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising one or more cartridge readers configured to read fragrance information from the chips of one or more cartridges.

21. One or more fragrance cartridges, One or more cartridge readers configured to identify the one or more fragrance cartridges, A fragrance switching mechanism configured to select one of the one or more fragrance cartridges, An aroma device comprising: an air outlet connected to an air conditioning system and configured to provide scented air based on one cartridge selected by the fragrance switching mechanism.

22. The aroma apparatus according to claim 21, wherein each of the one or more cartridge readers comprises an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) or radio frequency identification (RFID) reader positioned for each site of one or more fragrance cartridges.

23. The aroma device according to claim 21, wherein each of the one or more cartridge readers comprises a memory chip configured for storing fragrance information.

24. The aroma device according to claim 23, wherein each memory chip is located on the top or bottom surface of the corresponding cartridge.

25. The aroma device according to claim 21, comprising a central control unit and a communication module that are communicatively connected to an external terminal.

26. The aroma device according to claim 21, wherein the aroma device comprises a voice control module that uses one or more voice control protocols to operate the aroma device.

27. The aroma device according to claim 21, wherein the one or more fragrance cartridges are arranged parallel to each other on the same plane.

28. The aroma device according to claim 21, wherein each of the one or more fragrance cartridges is provided with ventilation holes for an inlet and an outlet, which are arranged on the same surface.

29. The aroma device according to claim 21, wherein the one or more fragrance cartridges are each equipped with a cap configured to seal the corresponding cartridge.

30. The aforementioned fragrance switching mechanism is Outer barrel and An inner barrel that is rotatable within the outer barrel, Equipped with one or more air guides, The aroma apparatus according to claim 21, comprising one or more groups of air inlets and one or more groups of air outlets, which align with the one or more air guides to form one or more air circuits, together with the air outlets based on the positions of the inner barrel and the angle disc relative to the selected cartridge among the one or more fragrance cartridges and the outer barrel.

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