Aerosol supply device

Abstract

An aerosol supply device (100) is provided for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the aerosol supply device (100) comprising: a housing (110) having a distal end (111), wherein the distal end housing comprises a deformable portion (115); a control circuit (120) housed within the housing for controlling the operating state of the aerosol supply device; and a detector (130) configured to detect movement of the distal end or pressure to the distal end and provide a signal to the control circuit, the control circuit being configured to update the operating state or display conditions of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving a signal from the detector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device, an aerosol generation system, a method for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, and an aerosol supply means.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generation systems are known. A common system uses a heater actuated by a user to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generation material by an aerosol supply device, and the aerosol is then supplied for inhalation by the user. The device can be actuated by the user pressing a button or simply by the act of inhalation. In the latest systems, a consumable element containing an aerosol generation material can be used. There may be cases where it is desirable for the manufacturer to provide control of the operation of the system to the user. This can avoid the operation of the system in undesirable situations.

[0003] Latest electronic aerosol generation systems and aerosol supply devices, etc., have been introduced as an alternative to other conventional systems such as those that rely on the combustion of materials to supply an aerosol. A decrease in the trust of users of conventional systems when trying out the latest systems is known.

[0004] The present invention is directed to solving some of the above problems.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] Aspects of the present invention are defined in the appended claims.

[0006] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device is provided for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the aerosol supply device comprising: a housing having a distal end, wherein the distal end housing comprises a deformable portion; a control circuit housed within the housing for controlling the operating state of the aerosol supply device; and a detector configured to detect the movement of the distal end and / or pressure toward the distal end and to provide a signal to the control circuit, the control circuit being configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device in response to a signal received from the detector.

[0007] Such a system can detect the movement of the distal end of an aerosol supply device and / or the pressure to the distal end and provide an operating state appropriate to that movement. This may allow the device to determine in real time whether the device handler is an authorized user of the device. In this specification, predetermined distal end movement and / or pressure to the distal end may be referred to, which may be the relative movement between the user and the distal end, or between the distal end and an item with which the distal end can interact. The device can detect distal end movement and / or pressure to the distal end (on a reasonable scale) and update its operating state accordingly. The device may also be able to detect distal end movement and / or pressure to the distal end (on a reasonable scale) and update the display conditions of the device.

[0008] An authorized user may be the owner of the device. An authorized user may be of an appropriate age to use the device. An authorized user may be a user with an active account associated with the device or the device manufacturer. Therefore, an unauthorized user may be a user who is not the owner, is not of an appropriate age, or is not registered with the device, etc.

[0009] In particular, by detecting such movements and / or pressures and comparing them to known movements and / or pressures, the device can, accordingly, permit or halt operation (or conversely, deny operation). Known movements are movements pre-programmed to produce some functional response, such as a change to operation or a change to non-operation. Denial of operation occurs in the detection of movements related to unauthorized users. Unauthorized users may use movements (or apply pressure) in a manner that is not recognized by the device (i.e., not pre-programmed to provide a functional response), and therefore such movements or pressures may be considered to originate from an unauthorized user. This provides improved safety during use of the aerosol supply device while avoiding unnecessary interference with authorized users. The devices disclosed herein offer an excellent balance between the level of security for device use and the ease of use of the device. Thus, the user experience and safety of the aerosol supply device are improved.

[0010] In particular, if User 1 wishes to use the aerosol delivery device, User 1 initiates an attempt to operate the device. User 1 is an authorized user and uses predetermined movements necessary to operate the device. User 1 may, alternatively or additionally, apply pressure to the distal end of the device. The movement may be a predetermined movement of a finger, palm, or thumb along or against the distal end of the device, such as a pressing action in a specific direction relative to the distal end. This movement is a predetermined movement known by the device to be effective for operation, and therefore the movement recognized by the control circuit is a predetermined movement so as to be related to a functional command made by the user through interaction with the deformable part at the distal end of the device. Thus, User 1 is evaluated by the control circuit as an authorized user (based on at least one signal from the detector), and the control circuit provides appropriate updates to the operating state of the device. The pressing action in this case may also provide pressure to the distal end of the device. Movements and / or pressures may be applied to the deformable part at the distal end of the housing.

[0011] Specific relative movements (and / or pressures) can be pre-programmed in the device or taught to the device by the user (or a combination of both). For example, flicking the distal end might be a pre-set movement for activation. Since flicking might be difficult for certain users, the user can teach the device that tapping the distal end is preferable for them. The device then recognizes this newly taught movement as an activation movement from an authorized user. In this way, users can personalize the movements required to activate the device. This may be particularly suitable for users with reduced motor skills, who may prefer activation movements different from those set by the manufacturer as default.

[0012] For example, a flicking motion of the finger against the distal end may evoke the motion of striking a match. A light press on the distal end may evoke the motion of touching a lit match to the distal end of a cigarette. A tap on the distal end may evoke the motion of "tapping the ash" off a cigarette. A moderate or firm press on the distal end against a surface may evoke the motion of crushing a cigarette to extinguish the fire. Each of these factors can synergistically increase the familiarity of aerosol dispensing devices for users who are more familiar with traditional flammable products. This can increase the likelihood that users from flammable products will continue to use modern aerosol dispensing devices and systems if they prefer. The deformable end can deform during movement and / or pressure applied to the distal end. This, too, may evoke traditional flammable products.

[0013] Therefore, this device and system can prevent unauthorized use without excessively restricting access by authorized users (since unauthorized users do not know or cannot reproduce the movements and / or pressures necessary for operation). This system and device also have a high degree of user familiarity at an inherent level with users of other products, which can increase the likelihood of a successful switch from legacy products to this device / system. This device operates in many ways similar to legacy systems, thereby providing users of legacy systems with intuitive usage patterns.

[0014] In this way, the user experience for authorized users can be improved while preventing unauthorized users from using the device or system.

[0015] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol generating system is provided for supplying an aerosol for user inhalation, the aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol supply device for supplying an aerosol for user inhalation, the aerosol supply device comprising a housing having a distal end, wherein the distal end housing comprises a deformable portion, a control circuit housed within the housing for controlling the operating state of the aerosol supply device, and a detector configured to detect movement of the distal end and / or pressure to the distal end and provide a signal to the control circuit, the control circuit configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving a signal from the detector.

[0016] According to some embodiments described herein, a method is provided for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the method comprising: detecting the movement of a deformable portion of the distal end of an aerosol supply device and / or the pressure on the deformable portion using a detector; providing a signal to a control circuit of the aerosol supply device in response to the detection of the movement of the distal end and / or the pressure on the distal end using the detector; and updating the operating state of the aerosol supply device using the control circuit in response to receiving a signal from the detector.

[0017] The methods described herein may be for updating the operating state to supply aerosol to a user. This may occur when the user is identified as an authorized user. The methods described herein may be for preventing the supply of aerosol to a user. This may occur when the user is identified as an unauthorized user. The methods described herein may be for updating the operating state that could subsequently result in the supply of aerosol, such as preparing the device for operation by a user. This may occur when the user is identified as an authorized user. The methods described herein may be for updating the operating state that could subsequently prevent the supply of aerosol, such as preventing the user from operating the device. This may occur when the user is identified as an unauthorized user. The methods described herein may be for updating the display conditions of the device.

[0018] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply means is provided for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the aerosol supply means comprising a housing having a distal end, wherein the distal end housing comprises a deformable means; a control means housed within the housing for controlling the operating state of the aerosol supply means; and a detection means configured to detect the movement of the distal end and / or pressure toward the distal end and to provide a signal to the control means, the control means configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply means in response to a signal received from the detection means.

[0019] Next, this instruction will be explained with reference to the following diagram, which is merely an example. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0020] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of an example of an aerosol supply device. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of an example of an aerosol supply device. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of an example aerosol supply system. [Figure 4] A flowchart according to one example. **DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION**

[0021] The present invention is capable of various modifications and alternative forms, but specific embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the drawings and detailed descriptions of specific embodiments are not intended to limit the present invention to the specific forms disclosed. On the contrary, the present invention encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternative forms that fall within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0022] Certain examples and aspects and features of embodiments are discussed / described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be implemented conventionally, and these are not discussed / described in detail for the sake of brevity. Accordingly, it will be understood that aspects and features of the devices and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail may be implemented according to any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

[0023] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol supply system, which may also be referred to as an aerosol supply system such as an e-cigarette. Throughout the following description, the terms "e-cigarette" or "electronic cigarette" may sometimes be used, but it will be understood that this term may be used interchangeably with aerosol supply system / device and electronic aerosol supply system / device. Further, as is common in the art, the terms "aerosol" and "vapor", and related terms such as "vaporize", "volatilize", and "aerosolize" may generally be used interchangeably.

[0024] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an example of an aerosol supply device 100 according to the present invention. The aerosol supply device 100 comprises an aerosol supply device housing 110. The aerosol supply device housing 110 has a distal end 111. The distal end 111 of the housing 110 has a deformable portion 115. The aerosol supply device 100 also has a proximal end 112. The aerosol supply device 100 has a control circuit 120. The control circuit 120 is housed in the housing 110 and is configured to control the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol supply device 100 includes a detector 130 configured to detect the movement of the distal end 111 and / or pressure on the distal end 111 and provide a signal to the control circuit 120. The control circuit 120 is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100 in response to receiving one or more signals from the detector 130.

[0025] In one example, a user wishes to use their device 100. In this case, the owner of the aerosol supply device 100 is considered an authorized user. Checks regarding age appropriateness (which may be analogous to authorization status, or ownership may be analogous to authorization status) may be performed at the point of sale, for example. Before use, the user of device 100 may be shown, read aloud, or otherwise informed of the movement (and / or pressure) required to activate device 100 in interaction with the distal end 111. When the detector 130 detects the user's movement (and / or pressure) toward (or otherwise involving) the distal end 111, the detector 130 sends a message (signal) to the control circuit 120. The control circuit 120 determines whether the signal is related to an authorized user or an unauthorized user. If the signal is related to an authorized user, the control circuit 120 may update the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100. If the signal is associated with an unauthorized user, the control circuit 120 may update the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100 to a non-operating state, etc. In any of the examples herein, the control circuit 120 may also update the display state of the aerosol supply device 100 accordingly.

[0026] The movement detected by detector 130 can be the movement of the device or the movement of the user, providing relative movement (and / or pressure) between the user and the distal end 111. This can be, in one example, moving a part of the user relative to the distal end 111 or, conversely, moving the distal end 111 relative to a part of the user (or, for example, a surface such as a table or desk). The movement can be, for example, a flick or a push or a tap. There can be a combination of movements in any predefined movement recognizable by control circuit 120, for example, a flick followed by a tap. Each of these movements can be a pre-programmed movement that control circuit 120 can recognize against a database of known movements. Similarly, the movement can be a predefined user movement such as swiping a finger relative to the distal end 111 and / or moving a hand relative to the distal end 111. Each of these user movements can be a pre-programmed movement that control circuit 120 can recognize against a database of known movements associated with related functions (operating states and / or display conditions).

[0027] In this specification, the term "movement" to or of the distal end may be used, but it is understood that the movement can additionally or alternatively be pressure to the distal end. References to pressure may not be explicit in each instance, but are intended throughout each example of this specification where relevant. When detector 130 detects movement (and / or pressure), a signal is sent to control circuit 120 and the detected movement (and / or pressure) is compared to known authorized movements (and / or pressure). When the movement (and / or pressure) corresponds to a movement (and / or pressure) within a database of known (sometimes referred to as predefined) movements (and / or pressure), device 100 can be updated from a non-operating state to an operating state and vice versa. [[ID= 6]]

[0028] In another example, movements associated with an authorized user may be learned movements. For instance, a user may be able to teach device 100 specific movements to trigger specific updates to the operating state and / or display conditions of device 100. The user may be able to put device 100 into learning mode, where movements are performed by the user, detected by detector 130, and associated with operating states and / or display conditions by control circuit 120 as selected by the user. These movements may be unique to the user, making them easier for the user to perform and harder for an unauthorized user to imitate.

[0029] Such movements may be distinctive and may be learned by the control circuit 120 as belonging to the operating requests of that (or a certain) authorized user. The detector 130 detects the movement and provides a signal to the control circuit 120. The control circuit 120 may compare the detected movement (and / or pressure) with a database of learned movements (and / or pressure) associated with the authorized user. If the movement is in the database, the operating state or display condition may be updated as requested. In one example, this could be a new operating movement that allows the device to operate after such movement has been detected. Once a movement is learned, it may be considered a predetermined movement. Such a movement may be “taught” the device 100 during a first use session, in which the user is asked to demonstrate a typical use operation that should be associated with the user. The user may, over time, begin to demonstrate further movements (or any other user-taught movements that are different from pre-programmed movements from the manufacturer) so that the system remains able to recognize the authorized user from the taught movements of the authorized user, if the use patterns and movements (and / or pressure) are different.

[0030] In this way, use of device 100 by unauthorized users is significantly hindered, but use by authorized users can be provided without any problems without significantly hindering such use by authorized users.

[0031] As used herein, an authorized user may be similar to a recognized user or a registered user. The authorization step may occur when registering a device with a user via an account or other configuration system. The authorization step may occur at the time of sale, such as by a manufacturer's agent.

[0032] The present invention includes updating the operating state of an aerosol supply device 100. In the "operating state," elements of the aerosol supply device 100 used to generate aerosols (atomizer, heater, power supply, etc.) can be activated. Specific activation of the device 100 may require additional input, such as inhalation into the device 100 or pressing a button on the device 100. Alternatively, the device 100 may automatically generate an aerosol by the heater in response to receiving a signal associated with an authorized user requesting an update to the operating state. The control circuit 120 receives such a signal from the detector 130 and transmits a signal to the heater configuration, etc., to supply an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material that may be contained within the aerosol supply device 100 or separate from the aerosol supply device 100. In the "non-operating state," such elements may not be used to generate an aerosol.

[0033] Updating the operating state may involve updating to an operating state or a non-operating state. Updating the display conditions may involve providing the user with an indication that device 100 has been updated to an operating state or a non-operating state. The display conditions may be provided by visual displays, audio indicators, tactile indicators, etc. The display conditions may correspond to the operating state of device 100. For example, a first display condition may be associated with a first operating state of device 100, and a second display condition may be associated with a second operating state of device 100.

[0034] In one example, the control circuit 120 may be configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100 to a non-operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector 130 related to an unauthorized user. In this example, the default state of the device 100 may be the operating state.

[0035] In one example, the control circuit 120 is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100 to an operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector related to an authorized user. In this example, the default state of the device 100 may be a non-operating state.

[0036] These examples offer contrasting advantages. Starting device 100 in an operational state and preventing use after the user is characterized as unauthorized reduces the delay time for aerosol delivery during use, thus improving the authorized user experience of device 100, as device 100 imposes only minimal restrictions on use by authorized users. Starting device 100 in a non-operational state and allowing use after the user is characterized as authorized increases the overall safety of device 100 and completely prevents unauthorized users from accessing device 100. The default state is selected by the manufacturer but can be modified by authorized users.

[0037] In one example, an authorized user flicks the distal end 111. This movement is recognized as an authorized user movement (predetermined and / or learned and associated with the authorized user). The control circuit 120 updates the operating state to the active state. In one example, upon updating the operating state to the active state, the device 100 begins heating its heater and the aerosol-generating material used with the device 100 during use. Thus, the aerosol supply process begins before the user's first inhalation, which reduces waiting time and improves the user experience. The aerosol supply process begins when the user completes the movement of flicking the distal end 111, before inhalation. In this case, no further action, such as pressing a button, is required of the user before starting use. Such secondary steps can increase the difficulty for users with reduced motor skills to begin using the device 100. Therefore, this example provides an improved user experience in such situations.

[0038] Device 100 may also update the indicator conditions of the aerosol supply device 100. The indicator conditions may correspond to the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100. For example, the indicator conditions may be audio and / or visual instructions related to the use of the aerosol supply device 100, such as a visual indication of a puff of burning embers or smoke. The audio indication may be the sound of a fire crackling or the sound of heated aerosol-producing material popping.

[0039] Therefore, authorized users can control the use of device 100 in a safe and user-friendly manner by providing movement or pressure to the distal end. The movement or pressure may be personalized to the user so as to make it difficult for others to use device 100. The movement may be appropriately complex so as to make it unlikely that an unauthorized user will be able to replicate it when attempting to use device 100 (e.g., flicking the distal end 111 and then tapping, with the flick being performed from a specific direction, such as across the top of the distal end 111), and may be provided to the user at the time of purchase, such as as part of the manufacturer's user manual, or at startup.

[0040] In one example, the control circuit 120 is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100 to an operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector 130 related to an authorized user. In another example, the control circuit 120 is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100 to a non-operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector 130 related to an authorized user. These two signals are related to different movements or pressures applied to the distal end 111.

[0041] In one example, a user after use may provide a motion to end the usage session. The user may (for example) tap the distal end 111 twice in short succession. In another example, a user may simulate "crushing and extinguishing a fire" the aerosol supply device 100 by pressing the surface of the distal end 111 onto another surface, thereby applying pressure to the distal end 111. The motion and / or pressure can act on the deformable portion 115 of the distal end 111. The detector 130 detects the motion and / or pressure and provides a signal to the control circuit 120. The control circuit checks this motion and / or pressure against a list of known motions and / or pressures, one of which relates to updating the operating state to a non-operating state, such as the off state. Other motions may relate to a locked state, etc., where the device is "unlocked" and can be used, which can be achieved by several different methods, including the use of an unlock motion.

[0042] The deformable portion 115 may deform during user use when providing pressure or movement to the distal end 111 in controlling the function of the aerosol supply device 100. The deformable portion 115 may be crushed (partially or completely) during, for example, a "crush to extinguish the fire" action to deactivate the device 100. This may increase familiarity for users who are more accustomed to other aerosol supply systems, such as cigarettes or cigars, by mimicking the user's previous habits or customs. The deformation brought about by the deformable portion 115 may be partial or complete and may be particularly useful in disposable aerosol supply devices.

[0043] In another example, the user may provide a movement for the control circuit 120 to learn and respond to update its operating state. In one example, the user may choose the action of “striking a match,” in which the user quickly flicks one finger (or possibly a pinching finger and thumb) toward (or along) the distal end 111. This movement has associated pressure along the distal end 111. This can also increase familiarity by mimicking a user’s existing habit or custom, such as smoking a cigarette or cigar, which is more familiar to users of combustion-type aerosol supply systems. It is widely accepted that electronic aerosol supply devices can be used as an alternative to combustion-type aerosol supply systems, and therefore, increasing familiarity may increase the likelihood that users will choose these alternatives and continue to use them long-term.

[0044] Device movement or pressure applied to the device (or both) can control the device's status. This may also relate to the device's boosted operating state. In the boosted operating state, the device may supply a different aerosol than in the operating state. For example, this could be an increase in aerosol. This could be an increase in aerosol over a shorter period of time. This could also, or alternatively, be a limited number of consecutive puffs. The boosted mode can be activated by a recognizable movement, such as a double flick with a finger (or a combination of thumb and finger), a double tap of the distal end 111, or a crushing action applied to the distal end 111 and forced onto the deformable portion 115. Any movement may be appropriate, as long as it is different from the movements / actions required to activate other operating or non-operating states. Movements familiar to users of older systems may increase user confidence in newer systems, such as those disclosed herein.

[0045] The movements described above may include taps, slides, flicks, presses, and twists. A movement may be a single movement or several movements. A movement may be a series of movements, etc. There are no intended restrictions on the type of movement. Movements should be appropriately distinct so that the detector and control circuit do not confuse one movement with another. For example, an activation movement may be a flick, while a deactivation movement may be pressing the distal end 111 against a surface (in the "crush to extinguish the fire" action) and may include twisting the device against the surface (to increase familiarity with the "crush to extinguish the fire" action). Similarly, a boost movement may be a double flick or a tap. This movement is performed against the distal end 111. The distal end 111 may be tapped against a finger, or a finger may be tapped against the distal end 111. This type of movement mimics the user's existing habits or customs, thereby increasing familiarity for the user of the combustion aerosol delivery system as described above. In particular, actions such as "crushing to extinguish a fire" (long pressure on the surface) and "tapping off ashes" (short tap with a finger) are very familiar to such users. This could improve the user experience when using newer devices.

[0046] The distal end 111 may be the end face of the housing 110, or it may be part of the longitudinal body of the housing 110. The deformable portion 115 may be partially or entirely enclosed within the distal end 111. The distal end 111 may extend along a portion of the length of the housing 110. The deformable portion 115 may be a reformably deformable portion 115. The deformable portion 115 may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber, or may contain an elastic material. The deformable portion 115 may have a bellows portion or a foldable and stretchable element, etc., so that pressure applied to the distal end 111 does not result in permanent deformation. The deformable portion 115 may have a rubberized or crushable tip, or a coil spring or expandable tip. Permanent deformation may be acceptable in single-use devices, while temporary deformation is preferred in reusable devices. The foldable and stretchable element may be similar to an expandable portion or an expandable and expandable sponge, etc.

[0047] Each of these embodiments of the deformable portion 115 can preferably reduce the likelihood of damage to the distal end 111 and the entire device 100 from repeated movements and / or pressure applied to the distal end 111. Elastic materials also improve user-to-distal end 111 interaction. If the material in the distal end 111 is elastic rather than rigid, the user is less likely to injure the distal end 111. Some parts of the deformable portion 115 may be enclosed within the housing 110, while other parts of the deformable portion 115 may not be enclosed within the housing so that the user can directly interact with the deformable portion 115.

[0048] Referring here to Figure 2, an example of an aerosol supply device 200 is shown. The aerosol supply device 200 comprises a housing 210, a control circuit 220, and a detector 230. The housing 210 has a proximal end 212 and a distal end 211. The distal end 211 is shown not only as an end face but also as the distal portion of the housing 210. A portion of the distal end portion 211 encloses a deformable portion 215. Figure 2 is illustrative and can be used as an example of what may be considered the distal end 211 of the device 200. The distal end 211 is not necessarily the only exact end of the device 200.

[0049] Various possible movements are indicated by arrows A, B, and C. For example, a pressing movement against the end face of the distal end 211 is indicated by arrow A (which can be used as the "crush and extinguish the fire" movement described above). A rotational or twisting movement is indicated by the curved arrow B. Such an action may be performed on the distal end 211 during a twisting motion by the user. Alternatively (or additionally), the distal end 211 may be rotatable, for example, by being hinged to a part of the housing 210 at a certain point. A wheel or wheel-like element (e.g., an axle) may be attached to the distal end 211 by the user. A downward flicking movement is indicated by arrow C, which can be used as the "ash-dropping" movement described above. Each of these, or a combination thereof, can be used to update the device 200 to new display conditions and / or operating states.

[0050] The movement indicated by arrow B may update the aerosol supply device 200 to an operational state for use (e.g., the “first” movement). The movement indicated by arrow C may update the aerosol supply device 200 to a boost operational state (e.g., the “second” movement, the “ash-tapping” movement). The movement indicated by arrow A may update the aerosol supply device 200 to a non-operational state for use (e.g., the “third” movement, the “crush-to-extinguish” movement). Each of these movements may be a predetermined, learned, or similar movement, i.e., a movement that can be recognized as causing the device 200 to provide a function. These movements of the device 200 may increase the familiarity of the device 200 to older combustion systems by mimicking “ash-tapping” in a combustion system (e.g., tapping the tip of a cigarette with a finger to remove excess ash) or “crush-to-extinguish” in a combustion system. This may be suitable for improving the experience of users unfamiliar with modern devices.

[0051] An actuation button may be located beneath the flexible end 211 of the device 200. This may be touched during such movement, and the device 200 may be controlled to operate or not operate according to the movement and one or more buttons that are pressed or moved.

[0052] In one example, the control circuit 220 is configured to update the indicator condition of the aerosol supply device 200 to an operational indicator condition in response to receiving a signal from the detector 230 related to an authorized user having a request (such as motion and / or pressure) to operate the device 200. The indicator may be a burning ember or a puff of smoke. In another example, the control circuit 220 is configured to update the indicator condition of the aerosol supply device 200 to a non-operational indicator condition in response to receiving a signal from the detector 230 related to an authorized user (for example, when performing a “crush to extinguish the fire” action). The motion may be any predetermined or taught / learned deactivation motion as described above. This can also change the indicator condition to a gradually dying ember or the absence of smoke. In another example, the control circuit 220 is configured to update the indicator condition of the aerosol supply device 200 to a boost operational indicator condition in response to receiving a signal from the detector 230 related to an authorized user. The color of the embers on the display may differ when device 200 is in boost mode compared to normal operating mode. The embers may be brighter or a different color. Visual smoke emission may be greater on the display, as well as from the user.

[0053] The detector 230 may be at least one of a timer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, a capacitor located in the housing, a thermal sensor, an accelerometer, an altimeter, an optical gate, and a pressure sensor. In this way, pre-programmed movements can be recognized, and user movements can also be taught to and recognized by the device 200. In this way, improved use can be provided to the user in a form that personalizes movements to update the operating state. Each of these detector embodiments enables the detection of various user and device movements and can be used to notify whether the user is an authorized user or not.

[0054] In one example, the device has a display screen that can provide visual instructions to the user during use. The display screen can represent the display conditions of the device. A control circuit can control the display on the display screen. The device may also have, or additionally, an audio element for providing voice instructions to the user. The screen may be an OLED or may enclose LEDs, etc. This can improve the user experience because the display provides a check to confirm that the user's movements have been recognized by the device. Specifically, if the user has similar movements to update the operating state to the operating state and to update the operating state to the boost operating state, the display can show the user which movement has been recognized by the device and whether to activate the boost or the normal operation. This provides a more user-friendly device and improves the overall safety of the device.

[0055] Users may be able to physically interact with these instructions. For example, the display may show smoke when the device is operating. Users may be able to swipe the smoke using motion detected by a detector.

[0056] In one example, the display screen may be a display screen having a fully wrap-around display. The device may have a substantially cylindrical shape, and the screen may be partially or completely covered around a portion of the housing. Such a configuration improves the instructions provided by the screen because the screen is more visible to the user. Thus, the instructions become easier to see.

[0057] Each movement associated with a functional requirement (operation, non-operation, boost, etc.) may differ, for example, for different operating states and different display conditions, such that a first predetermined movement updates the operating state of the aerosol supply device to a non-operational state, and a second predetermined movement updates the operating state of the aerosol supply device to a boosted operating state.

[0058] In one example, the detector 230 is a pressure sensor configured to detect pressure applied to the distal end 211, which is forced onto the deformable portion 215 (for example, by pressing indicated by arrow A). The detector 230 is configured to provide a signal to a control circuit, which detects when the pressure applied to the distal end 211 meets or exceeds a threshold pressure or pressure range. This detector can detect the "squeeze to extinguish the fire" action as described above. The detector 230 may be a button connected to or adjacent to the deformable portion 215 so that the button is pressed directly during the movement indicated by arrow A, for example.

[0059] In the example above, the user applies a downward pressure to the distal end 211 of the device at any value between 0 and 5 kg / cm², for example, the following point pressure values ​​(in kg / cm²): 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, You can add 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9, and 5.0.

[0060] In the above exemplary embodiment, the area of ​​the distal end 211 of the device is 1 cm² (0.0001 m², where 1 kg / cm²) 2 = 98.1 kilopascals (kPa). In this embodiment, the pressure applied to the distal end 211 may be any detected pressure value within the pressure range of 0 to 491 kPa, for example, between 49 kPa and 441 kPa. The pressure applied to the distal end 211 may be any detected pressure value within the pressure range of 98 kPa to 392 kPa, for example, between 147 kPa and 343 kPa. The pressure applied to the distal end 211 may be any detected pressure value within the pressure range of 196 kPa to 294 kPa, for example, 245 kPa.

[0061] In one embodiment, the pressure applied to the distal end 211 may be any detected pressure value within the pressure range of 196 kPa to 294 kPa, for example 206 kPa to 284 kPa, for example 216 kPa to 275 kPa. The pressure applied to the distal end 211 may be any detected pressure value within the pressure range of 216 kPa to 275 kPa, for example 226 kPa to 265 kPa, for example 235 kPa to 255 kPa, for example 245 kPa.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment, the pressure applied to the distal end 211 is any detected pressure value that exceeds the minimum threshold of the aforementioned range of values, such as any threshold pressure value greater than 0 (zero), which may be, for example, 49 kPa, 98 kPa, 147 kPa, 196 kPa, 206 kPa, 216 kPa, 226 kPa, 235 kPa, 245 kPa, 255 kPa, 265 kPa, 275 kPa, 284 kPa, and 294 kPa.

[0063] Referring now to Figure 3, an example of the aerosol supply system 300 is shown. The aerosol supply system 300 shown in the example in Figure 3 is similar to the aerosol supply devices 100 and 200 shown in the examples in Figures 1 and 2.

[0064] The aerosol supply system 300 in Figure 3 has a control circuit 320 located within the aerosol supply device 310 of the aerosol supply system 300. The control circuit 320 communicates with a detector 330. The detector 330 is configured to detect motion associated with an authorized user on the distal end 311 of the device 310 and provide a signal to the control circuit. The aerosol supply device 300 has a deformable portion 315 located toward the distal end 311. In the example in Figure 3, the detector 330 is shown as not being integrated with the aerosol supply device 310. Therefore, in this example, the detector 330 is separate from the aerosol supply device 310 but is part of the aerosol supply system 300. The detector 330 may be wirelessly connected to the aerosol supply device 310. Therefore, the detector 330 may be provided by further components so that the detector 330 can still be retained if the aerosol supply device 310 is lost. Furthermore, using the detector 330 outside the aerosol supply device 310 makes the manufacture of the aerosol supply device 310 simpler and less expensive. Therefore, the aerosol supply system 300 may be a preferred configuration for providing the advantages described herein. This may be particularly suitable for disposable devices.

[0065] Figure 4 illustrates method 400 of using the aerosol supply device. Method 400 is shown as a flowchart. In method 400, the device can be started in a default state (402), which may be a non-operating state in which the device cannot be used if the user is not recognized as an authorized user via movement associated with the distal end or pressure exerted on the distal end. Alternatively, the default operating state may be an operating state in which an authorized user can start operation sooner, thereby reducing the delay in operation for the authorized user. The device starts in a default state selected by the manufacturer for the preferential advantages described above.

[0066] When a user attempts to use the device, the device detects movement or pressure at the distal end of the aerosol supply device. This may be movement related to the user's movement before use, and / or pre-programmed movement that should be met before use, as described above. The device detects (one or more) movement using detectors (which may contain several individual sensors / detectors). Detectors may detect (one or more) movement / pressure as described above (404).

[0067] The detector transmits a signal to the control circuit accordingly (406). An evaluation is performed to determine whether the user is authorized. This evaluation may include comparing the detected motion (one or more) with a database of known authorized motions. If the motion corresponds to a motion in the database, the user is considered authorized. If the motion does not correspond to a motion in the database, the user is considered unauthorized.

[0068] The operating status and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device (or aerosol supply system) are updated in response to signals from the detector (408). The operating status may be updated as described above. Updating the display conditions may take the form of updating a visual or audible indicator. In one example, this may be a screen such as a display screen, or (one or more) LEDs, a full wraparound screen, or a speaker configuration. This can be used to inform the user about the mode of the aerosol supply device.

[0069] This method provides a user-friendly authorization recognition process that does not excessively hinder use by authorized users. It strikes a balance between overly strict and overly lenient access protection for the device. Clear and easy-to-follow actions allow for the recognition of authorized users while preventing unauthorized users from using the device. This method also enhances user familiarity for users of traditional combustion-type products.

[0070] Updating the operating state may include the control circuit updating the operating state of the aerosol supply device to the operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector related to authorized user movement or pressure on the distal end of the device housing. Updating the operating state may also include the control circuit updating the operating state of the aerosol supply device to the non-operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector related to unauthorized user movement on the distal end of the device housing. Unauthorized users do not use the correct, predetermined movements (and / or pressures) that are recognized by the control circuit as described above. If unrecognized movement is detected and the device is in the operating state, the control circuit may choose to update the operating state to the non-operating state to prevent use by an unauthorized user.

[0071] The update of the display conditions may correspond to the operating state or other factors. For example, a user movement forced onto the distal end should be within a first confidence threshold that the device should recognize. If the user movement is within a second, more lenient confidence threshold, the device may respond by updating the display conditions to instruct the user to try the movement again. In this way, if the user mistakenly nearly makes an operating movement toward or to the distal end, the user may be notified to repeat the action. In this case, the user learns that the device did not immediately recognize this movement. Such a configuration improves the overall user experience because the user does not feel frustrated repeating a movement that the user considers to be a correct operating movement, but which the device considers to be close but not exactly accurate.

[0072] In one example, the user might attempt to extinguish the fire by crushing it. This might involve pressing the distal end of the device against a surface. This might also involve twisting the device when pressed against the surface. The user might not press hard enough so that the control circuit cannot be certain whether the deactivation command (related to the crushing-to-extinguish action in this example) has been requested by the user. The device may then update its display conditions, indicating to the user that a second, more lenient threshold has been met (suggesting that the user attempted to extinguish the fire by crushing it), but that a less lenient first confidence threshold has not been met. The user is then prompted to attempt to extinguish the fire by crushing it again, perhaps by a display on the device (which may be visual or audible).

[0073] Users may be able to modify the confidence threshold for activation. In this way, users with reduced motor skills can increase the threshold so that a wider range of movements can be recognized as activation movements. This allows users with reduced motor skills to access their devices while still providing a degree of security against attempts by unauthorized users to access the device.

[0074] The detector described above may be a series of detectors. The detector may be a single device or several devices. The detector disclosed herein may include a series of devices that operate simultaneously or together to provide high-resolution motion detection of potential user movements. For example, a series of optical gates can be used to detect the velocity of a user's movement along the distal end, to distinguish between fast and slow flicks. In addition, pressure sensors can be used to distinguish between strong and weak flicks, or between strong and weak presses (for example, to proceed to a lower operating state (weak press) or complete deactivation (strong press)). Together, this enables the device to recognize many types of movements, such as strong and fast flicks, fast flicks, weak and fast flicks, strong and slow flicks, slow flicks, and weak and slow flicks.

[0075] The same applies to other movements, such as pressing. The synergistic use of multiple detectors allows for much greater control to the user, in the form of providing more personalized functionality and more accurate detection of specific movements by the user, thereby increasing the likelihood that the user will be provided with the functionality they intend in response to authorized user movements toward or toward the distal end of the device.

[0076] In this use case, the user may perform a first action to update the operating state to the operating state. The user may perform a second action to update the operating state to the boost condition. Then, the user may perform a light, crushing action to extinguish the fire to update the operating state to the normal operating state, or a strong, crushing action to extinguish the fire to update the operating state to the non-operating state. In this way, the ability of the detector (or detector array) to distinguish between similar actions provides the user with a greater number of commands, which improves the user experience.

[0077] The term "in response to" is used herein to indicate a second event (such as a signal or change in the state of an aerosol supply device) that occurs after a first event. The second event may occur at a later time, after a predetermined time, or immediately after the first event.

[0078] The full range of operating states of the aerosol dispensing devices (or systems) disclosed herein can be very broad, assisting the aerosol dispensing devices in dispensing different aerosols to the user. Operating states may be other than the operable, inoperable, and boosted states disclosed herein. Operating modes may be programmed by the user, for example, if the user prefers certain operating characteristics, such as longer or shorter puff lengths, or more or less puff volumes. This improves the user experience by providing a greater number of functions.

[0079] The aerosol supply device may include a heating configuration for supplying aerosols from consumables, which may contain aerosol-generating materials. A control circuit may control the heating configuration (etc.) according to a signal received from a detector. Once the user authentication status is met, the device may offer the user one of several heating processes for use with the aerosol-generating material placed in the aerosol supply device at the time of use, in order to improve the user experience. Alternatively, one movement may be associated with one heating process, and another movement with another heating process. This may be part of updating the operating status of the aerosol supply device.

[0080] Predetermined movements (and / or pressures) may be stored in a database located remotely from or mounted on a device or system as disclosed herein. The control circuit can communicate with the database. Signals from the detector may be compared by the control circuit with the database. If the signal is associated with an authorized user, the device is updated to an operational state.

[0081] An onboard database configuration may be preferable because the device does not need to have a communication element within the device that enables it to communicate with a remotely held database, and the device does not need to be connected to a communication network to access the remotely held database before each usage session. This can enable the use of the device in areas without connectivity. It can also provide faster response times than communicating via a remote database.

[0082] In another example, a database of predetermined motions is maintained remotely, and the control circuit has a communication module for accessing the database. The communication module can access the database by request to check for specific detected motions. User authorization based on the motion is then provided to the communication module, and therefore to the control circuit, and the user authorization is relayed to the control circuit. This configuration may be preferable because it ensures that devices do not need to include memory elements to carry the database, that the motion database can be updated remotely, and that devices do not need to periodically update the onboard database. In this way, as soon as the latest motion data is uploaded to the central database, that motion data can be made available to all devices. This can occur during manufacturing updates of pre-programmed (predetermined) motions.

[0083] In this way, updates can be provided to all users without each individual needing to update their own device. The remote database could be a manufacturer's database for linking a user's movements relative to the distal end on the device housing to that user's authorization status. This may be preferable if the manufacturer finds that certain movements are difficult to reliably reproduce by the user or difficult to detect by the detector. Thus, the resilience and user experience of this system are improved by using the remote database.

[0084] The devices and systems described herein are described as comprising several components that enable several advantages. The components may be disclosed as being mounted on a device or within a system. The components may be distributed and therefore not necessarily mounted on a device. The functionality of the device can be provided by communicatively connected components, such communication may be wireless, enabling such distribution. At that point, it is reasonable to anticipate that a distributed array of components will operate in the manner of the devices and systems disclosed herein. Components of a device or system may be contained within further devices, such as a smartphone, computer, or remote server.

[0085] The methods and devices disclosed herein enable protection against device use without requiring a cumbersome authorization process, which requires no more effort than that desired by the device manufacturer or user. This improves the user experience of the device and the safety of the device's general use. The default state of the device may also be controlled and modified by the user to allow for a transition between higher security and greater freedom of access. The processes discussed herein can also provide greater confidence and familiarity to new users of such devices, which may be important in ensuring that new users continue to use the device.

[0086] The devices and systems disclosed herein may be used with consumables containing aerosol-generating materials. Such consumables may be solid or liquid, or may be cartridges or the like.

[0087] In certain cases, the devices disclosed herein may operate with replaceable flavor pods within the device, which may be referred to as consumables. The flavors may be either tobacco or glycol, or extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, etc.). It may contain other additives such as jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, bell pepper, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or peppermint oil from any species of the Mentha genus, flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), as well as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plant substances, or breath fresheners. These may be mimics, synthetic or natural ingredients, or blends thereof.

[0088] When combined with an aerosol generating medium, the aerosol supply devices disclosed herein may be referred to as aerosol supply systems.

[0089] Accordingly, an aerosol supply device for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user is described, comprising a housing having a distal end, wherein the distal end housing comprises a deformable portion; a control circuit housed within the housing for controlling the operating state of the aerosol supply device; and a detector configured to detect movement of the distal end or pressure toward the distal end and provide a signal to the control circuit, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state or display conditions of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving a signal from the detector.

[0090] Aerosol supply systems can be used in tobacco industry products, such as non-combustion aerosol supply systems.

[0091] In one embodiment, the tobacco industry product comprises one or more components of a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a heater and an aerosolizable substrate.

[0092] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device.

[0093] In one embodiment, the electronic cigarette comprises a heater, a power supply capable of supplying power to the heater, an aerosolizable substrate such as a liquid or gel, a housing, and optionally a mouthpiece.

[0094] In one embodiment, the aerosolizable substrate is enclosed in or on top of a substrate container. In one embodiment, the substrate container is combined with or includes a heater.

[0095] In one embodiment, the tobacco industry product is a heating product that releases one or more compounds by heating a base material but not burning it. The base material is an aerosolizable material that may or may not contain nicotine, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products. In one embodiment, the heating device product is a tobacco heating product.

[0096] In one embodiment, the heating product is an electronic device.

[0097] In one embodiment, the tobacco heating product comprises a heater, a power source capable of supplying power to the heater, and an aerosolizable substrate such as a solid or gel material.

[0098] In one embodiment, the heated product is a non-electronic article.

[0099] In one embodiment, the heating product comprises an aerosolizable substrate such as a solid or gel material and a heat source, the heat source being able to supply thermal energy to the aerosolizable substrate without any electronic means, such as by burning a combustible material such as charcoal.

[0100] In one embodiment, the heated product also includes a filter capable of filtering out aerosols generated by heating an aerosolizable substrate.

[0101] In some embodiments, the aerosolizable substrate material may include an aerosol, an aerosol-generating agent, or a wetting agent, such as glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, or diethylene glycol.

[0102] In one embodiment, the tobacco industry product is a hybrid system for generating an aerosol by heating but not burning a combination of base materials. The base materials may include, for example, solids, liquids, or gels, which may or may not contain nicotine. In one embodiment, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel base and a solid base. The solid base may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. In one embodiment, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel base and tobacco.

[0103] To address various issues and advance the technology, the entirety of this disclosure illustrates various embodiments in which the claimed invention can be implemented and which can provide an excellent electronic aerosol delivery system. The advantages and features of this disclosure are merely representative samples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. They are presented solely to aid in and teach the understanding of the claimed features. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects of this disclosure should not be considered as limitations to the disclosure as defined by the claims or to equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modified without departing from the scope and / or spirit of this disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably include, consist of, or essentially consist of, various combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. In addition, this disclosure includes other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply device for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, A housing having a distal end, wherein the distal end housing has a deformable portion, A control circuit housed within the housing for controlling the operating state of the aerosol supply device, A detector configured to detect the movement of the distal end and / or the pressure on the distal end and to provide a signal to the control circuit, an aerosol supply device comprising the above, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device in response to a signal received from the detector.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device to an operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector relating to the first movement of the distal end and / or pressure to the distal end.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device to a non-operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector relating to the second movement of the distal end and / or pressure to the distal end.

4. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device to a boost operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector relating to the third movement of the distal end and / or pressure to the distal end.

5. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the display conditions of the aerosol supply device to operating display conditions in response to receiving a signal from the detector relating to the fourth movement of the distal end and / or pressure to the distal end.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the display condition of the aerosol supply device to a non-operation display condition in response to receiving a signal from the detector relating to the fifth movement of the distal end and / or pressure to the distal end.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the display condition of the aerosol supply device to a boost operation display condition in response to receiving a signal from the detector relating to the sixth movement of the distal end and / or pressure to the distal end.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the detector is at least one of a timer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, a capacitor located in the housing, a thermal sensor, an accelerometer, an altimeter, an optical gate, and a pressure sensor.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the deformable portion is a portion that can be deformed in an improved manner.

10. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the deformable portion comprises at least one of a bellows portion, an elastic member, and a foldable, stretchable element.

11. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least a portion of the detector is arranged in the deformable portion.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least a portion of the detector is deformable in an improveable manner.

13. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a display screen, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the display conditions of the display screen.

14. The detector is a pressure sensor configured to detect the pressure applied to the distal end and provide a signal to the control circuit, wherein the pressure value is between 196 kPa and 294 kPa, such as 245 kPa. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device to a non-operating state in response to receiving the signal from the pressure sensor.

15. An aerosol generation system for supplying aerosols for inhalation by a user, Aerosol supply device for supplying aerosol for user inhalation. The aerosol supply device is equipped with, A housing having a distal end, wherein the distal end housing has a deformable portion, A control circuit housed within the housing for controlling the operating state of the aerosol supply device, A detector configured to detect the movement of the distal end and / or the pressure on the distal end and to provide a signal to the control circuit, an aerosol generation system comprising, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving the signal from the detector.

16. The aerosol generation system according to claim 15, wherein the detector is not integrated with the aerosol supply device.

17. In response to the control circuit receiving the signal from the detector relating to the movement of the distal end and / or the pressure to the distal end, the operating state of the aerosol supply device is determined as follows: Operating status, Non-operating state, and Boost operation status The aerosol generating system according to claim 15 or 16, configured to be updated to at least one of the following.

18. In response to the control circuit receiving the signal from the detector relating to the movement of the distal end and / or the pressure to the distal end, the display conditions of the aerosol supply device are set as follows: Operation display conditions, Non-operation display conditions, and Boost operation display conditions The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 15 to 17, configured to be updated to at least one of the above.

19. The aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the detector is at least one of a timer, a gyroscope, a magnetometer, a capacitor located in a housing, a thermal sensor, an accelerometer, an altimeter, an optical gate, and a pressure sensor.

20. The aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 15 to 19, further comprising a display screen, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the display conditions of the display screen.

21. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the deformable portion is a portion that can be deformed in an improved manner.

22. The detector is a pressure sensor configured to detect the pressure applied to the distal end and provide a signal to the control circuit, wherein the pressure value is between 196 kPa and 294 kPa, such as 245 kPa. The aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply device to a non-operating state in response to receiving the signal from the pressure sensor.

23. A method for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, The steps include detecting the movement of a deformable portion at the distal end of an aerosol supply device and / or the pressure on the deformable portion using a detector, The steps include providing a signal to the control circuit of the aerosol supply device in response to the step of detecting the movement of the distal end and / or the pressure to the distal end using the detector, The control circuit updates the operating state of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving the signal from the detector. Methods that include...

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the step of updating the operating state of the aerosol supply device by the control circuit includes updating the operating state of the aerosol supply device to an operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector relating to the movement of the distal end and / or pressure to the distal end.

25. Aerosol supply means for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, A housing having a distal end, wherein the distal end housing is equipped with a deformable means, A control means housed within the housing for controlling the operating state of the aerosol supply means, A detection means configured to detect the movement of the distal end and / or the pressure on the distal end and to provide a signal to the control means, an aerosol supply means comprising, wherein the control means is configured to update the operating state of the aerosol supply means in response to a signal received from the detection means.

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