Aerosol supply device

Abstract

An aerosol supply device is provided for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the aerosol supply device comprising a control circuit for controlling the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device, and a detector configured to detect movement related to an authorized user and provide a signal to the control circuit, wherein the movement is at least one of i) movement of the device and ii) movement of the user, and the control circuit is configured to update the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving a signal related to an authorized user 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 a latest system, a consumable element enclosing the aerosol generation material can be used. There may be a desire for the manufacturer to provide control of the operation of the system to the user. This can avoid the operation of the system in an undesirable situation.

[0003] The present invention is directed to solving some of the above problems.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] Aspects of the present invention are defined in the appended claims.

[0005] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user is provided, the aerosol supply device comprising a control circuit for controlling an operating state and / or display condition of the aerosol supply device, and a detector configured to detect a movement associated with an authorized user and provide a signal to the control circuit, the movement being at least one of i) a movement of the device and ii) a movement of the user, and the control circuit being configured to update the operating state and / or display condition of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving a signal associated with an authorized user from the detector.

[0006] Such a system can detect the movement of an authorized user and provide an operating state and / or display condition appropriate to that movement. This allows the device to determine in real time whether the device handler is an authorized user of the device. An authorized user may be the owner of the device. An authorized user may be a user 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. This determination is made between the movement of the device and / or the user. The device can detect relative movement between the user and the device (to a reasonable extent) and update the operating state and / or display condition accordingly.

[0007] In particular, by detecting motion and comparing it to the motion of an authorized user (one or more), the device may permit (or deny) operation accordingly. In other words, the device makes a decision as to whether a user is unauthorized or not. Denial of operation occurs upon detection of motion associated with an unauthorized user. This provides improved safety during use of the aerosol dispensing 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 dispensing device are improved.

[0008] In particular, if User 1 wishes to use the aerosol supply device, User 1 initiates an attempt to operate the device. User 1 is an authorized user and uses predetermined movements necessary to use the device. User 1 is evaluated by the control circuit (based on at least one signal from the detector), and the control circuit provides appropriate updates to the operating status and / or display conditions of the device.

[0009] User movements and / or device movements can be pre-programmed within the device or derived during the user's use of the device (or a combination of both). For example, shaking the device may be a pre-programmed movement, and as a result of this movement, the control circuit updates the operating state to the active state.

[0010] In one example, a typical pre-use movement of a user (confirmed by the control circuit over repeated use of the aerosol dispensing device by the user) may include taking the device out of a pocket and raising it to the user's mouth. In this example, when the detector detects such movement of the device (taking it out of a pocket and raising it to the mouth), the control circuit updates the operating state to the active state. Thus, the aerosol dispensing device may become active shortly before it is placed in the user's mouth. The aerosol dispensing device can then dispense aerosol while in the active state. In this way, the delay between the user's inhalation and the dispensing of aerosol is reduced.

[0011] Therefore, this device and system can prevent use by unauthorized users (since unauthorized users do not know or cannot reproduce the movements necessary for operation) and can also reduce the delay time in supplying aerosols to authorized users.

[0012] In this way, the user experience for authorized users can be improved while preventing unauthorized users from using the device or system.

[0013] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol generating system is provided for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol supply device for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the aerosol supply device comprising a control circuit for controlling the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device and a detector configured to detect motion related to an authorized user and provide a signal to the control circuit, the motion being at least one of i) motion of the device and ii) motion of the user, and the control circuit is configured to update the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving a signal related to an authorized user from the detector.

[0014] According to some embodiments described herein, a method is provided for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the method comprising: detecting by a detector movement relating to an authorized user of an aerosol supply device; providing by the detector a signal to a control circuit of the aerosol supply device, wherein the characteristics are at least one of i) movement of the device and ii) movement of the user; and updating the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device by the control circuit in response to receiving a signal relating to an unauthorized user from the detector.

[0015] 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.

[0016] 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 control means for controlling the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply means and a detection means configured to detect movement relating to an authorized user and provide a signal to the control means, the movement being at least one of i) movement of a device and ii) movement of a user, and the control means is configured to update the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply means in response to receiving a signal relating to an authorized user from the detection means.

[0017] Next, this instruction will be explained with reference to the following diagram, which is merely an example. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [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] This is a flowchart illustrating one example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] While various modifications and alternative forms are possible for the present invention, specific embodiments are shown as examples in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the drawings and detailed descriptions of specific embodiments are not intended to limit the invention to the specific forms disclosed. Rather, the present invention encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternative forms that fall within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0020] Specific examples and embodiments of aspects and features are discussed / described herein. Some aspects and features of specific examples and embodiments can be carried out conventionally and are not discussed / described in detail for the sake of brevity. Therefore, it will be understood that aspects and features of apparatus and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail can be carried out according to any prior art for carrying out such aspects and features.

[0021] This disclosure relates to an aerosol supply system, sometimes called an aerosol supply system, such as an e-cigarette. Throughout the following description, the term “e-cigarette” or “electronic cigarette” may be used at times, but it will be understood that this term may be used interchangeably with aerosol supply systems / devices and electronic aerosol supply systems / devices. Furthermore, as is common in the art, the terms “aerosol” and “vapor,” as well as related terms such as “vaporize,” “volatilize,” and “aerosolize,” may generally be used interchangeably.

[0022] 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 100 has a control circuit 120. The control circuit 120 is configured to control the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol supply device 100 includes a detector 130 configured to detect motion associated with an authorized user and provide a signal to the control circuit 120. The motion detected by the detector 130 is at least one of i) device motion and ii) user motion. The control circuit 120 is configured to update the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device 100 in response to receiving a signal associated with an authorized user from the detector 130.

[0023] 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 move device 100 in a predetermined manner. When the detector 130 detects this predetermined movement, 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 updates the operating status and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0024] The movement detected by detector 130 can be the movement of the device or the movement of the user. In one example, this can be shaking device 100, tilting device 100, rotating device 100, twisting device 100, etc. There can be a combination of movements within the predefined movements, for example, shaking after tilting. 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, moving a hand over a part of device 100, covering a part of device 100 with the palm of the hand, etc. Each of these user movements can be a pre-programmed movement that control circuit 120 can recognize against a database of known movements.

[0025] When detector 130 detects a movement, a signal is sent to control circuit 120 and the detected movement is compared with known authorized movements. If the movement corresponds to a movement within the database of known movements, device 100 can be updated from a non-operating state to an operating state.

[0026] In another example, movements associated with an authorized user can be learned movements. For example, the user can place device 100 in a pocket or bag, etc. Movements associated with an authorized user can include taking device 100 out of a pocket or bag and lifting device 100 up to the user's mouth. Such movements are characteristic and can be learned by control circuit 120 as belonging to the routine of that (or a particular) authorized user. Detector 130 detects the movement and provides a signal to control circuit 120. Control circuit 120 can compare the detected movement to a database of learned movements associated with authorized users. If the movement is in the database, device 100 may be operated by the user. When a movement is learned, it can be considered a predefined movement. Such a movement can be "taught" to device 100 during a first use session, in which the user is required to demonstrate typical usage actions to be associated with the user. The user can initiate further demonstrations over time so that the system remains capable of recognizing the authorized user if the usage pattern and movements differ.

[0027] In this way, use of device 100 by an unauthorized user of device 100 is significantly impeded, while use by an authorized user is provided without significantly impeding the user by that user.

[0028] As used herein, an authorized user can be similar to a recognized user or a registered user. The authorization step can be performed when registering the device to the user via an account or other setting system. The authorization step can be performed at the time of sale by an agent of the manufacturer, etc.

[0029] 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 (such as an atomizer, heater, and power supply) 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. 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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. In another example, the control circuit 120 may be 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 the non-operating state.

[0032] These 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 only slightly restricts 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.

[0033] In one example, an authorized user takes device 100 from their pocket and moves device 100 to their mouth. This movement is recognized as an authorized user movement (pre-defined, 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, device 100 begins heating its heater and the aerosol-generating material used with 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. In this case, no further action, such as pressing a button, is required of the user before use. Such steps may be difficult for users with reduced motor skills. Therefore, this example provides an improved user experience in such situations. Device 100 can also update the indicator conditions of the aerosol supply device. The indicator conditions may correspond to the operating state of the aerosol supply device 100. For example, the indicators could be audio and / or visual instructions related to the use of the aerosol supply device, such as a visual indication of a puff of burning or smoke. Audio instructions could be the sound of a heated aerosol-generating material crackling or a fire or popping.

[0034] Therefore, authorized users can provide movements to control the use of device 100 in a safe and user-friendly manner. Movements can be personalized to the user so that others cannot use device 100. Movements can be appropriately complex (e.g., rotating and then tilting) so that an unauthorized user is unlikely to be able to replicate them when attempting to use device 100, and the user may be notified of these movements upon activation.

[0035] Typical behavior, such as how a user handles device 100, can be recorded over time. If a user typically uses their left hand to pull device 100 out of a bag, a motion-sensing detector 130 (e.g., a gyroscope) can characterize that movement. In response to sensing this characteristic movement and providing a signal to the control circuit 120, the control circuit 120 can have a high level of confidence that the user is an authorized user. For example, if the movement of device 100 before use is not typical of device 100, the control circuit 120 can have a high level of confidence that the user is not an authorized user and therefore can prevent the use of device 100.

[0036] 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.

[0037] In one example, after use, the user may move the aerosol supply device 100 away from their mouth and into their pocket or bag. This movement may be characteristic. The control circuit 120 is notified of this by the detector 130 and may update the operating state to a non-operating state, such as turning off the power. In this way, the user does not need to take any further action to turn off the device 100, which, in this case as well, may be useful for users with reduced motor skills. In this case, the device 100 can also turn off sooner than if further action from the user were required, thereby saving energy during the use of the device. The device 100 only operates until the user stops using the device, and therefore the battery (or other power source) is used most effectively.

[0038] 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 “crushing to extinguish the fire,” in which the device 100 is removed from the mouth, placed on a surface, and rotated (or similar). This may increase familiarity for users who are more accustomed to combustion-type aerosol dispensing systems, such as cigarettes or cigars. It is widely accepted that electronic aerosol dispensing devices can be used as an alternative to combustion-type aerosol dispensing systems, and therefore, by increasing familiarity, the likelihood of users choosing this alternative and continuing to use it long-term may increase.

[0039] A movement by either the user or the device (or both) can control the device's status. This can also relate to the device's boosted state. In the boosted 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. Boost mode can be activated by a recognizable movement, such as a double tap or double shake with a finger. Any movement may be appropriate, as long as it is different from the movement required to activate any other operating or non-operating state.

[0040] Referring here to Figure 2, an example of the aerosol supply device 200 is shown. The aerosol supply device 200 comprises a housing 210, a control circuit 200, and a detector 230. Various possible movements are indicated by arrows. For example, tilting or shaking upwards is indicated by arrow A. Tilting or shaking downwards is indicated by arrow B. Translation (pushing or pulling motion) is indicated by arrow C. Each of these, or a combination thereof, can be used to update the device 200 to new display conditions and / or operating states.

[0041] In one example, the control circuit 220 is configured to update the display condition of the aerosol supply device 200 to an operational display condition in response to receiving a signal from the detector 230 related to an authorized user. The display may be a burning ember or a puff of smoke. In another example, the control circuit 220 is configured to update the display condition of the aerosol supply device 200 to a non-operational display condition in response to receiving a signal from the detector 230 related to an authorized user. The movement may be a crushing and extinguishing movement, as described above. This can also change the display condition to a gradually dying ember or the absence of smoke. In another example, the control circuit 220 is configured to update the display condition of the aerosol supply device 200 to a boost operation display condition in response to receiving a signal from the detector 230 related to an authorized user. The color of the ember on the display may differ when the device 200 is in boost mode compared to normal operation mode. The ember may be brighter or a different color. Visual smoke emission can be greater on the display, as well as from the user.

[0042] 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 usability can be provided to the user by personalizing 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 inform whether the user is an authorized user or not.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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 and provide a signal to the control circuit. In the example of Figure 3, the detector 330 is shown as separate from the aerosol supply device 310. Thus, 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. Thus, 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 cheaper. Thus, the aerosol supply system 300 may be a preferred configuration for providing the advantages described herein.

[0046] 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 through the user's movements and / or the device's movements. Alternatively, the default operating state may be an operating state in which an authorized user can start operating sooner, thereby reducing the delay in the authorized user's movements. The device starts in a default state selected by the manufacturer for the preferential advantages described above.

[0047] When a user attempts to use the device, the device detects the user's movements and / or the device's movements related to the user (404). These may be movements related to the user's movements before use and / or pre-programmed movements that should be fulfilled before use, as described above. The device detects (one or more) movements using detectors (which may encompass several individual sensors / detectors). Detectors may detect (one or more) movements as described above (404).

[0048] 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.

[0049] The operating status and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device (or aerosol supply system) are updated in response to a signal from a detector (408). This can take the form of updating a visual or audible indicator. In one example, this may be a screen such as a display screen, or a configuration of (one or more) LEDs or a speaker. This can be used to inform the user about the mode of the aerosol supply device.

[0050] This method provides a user-friendly user recognition process that does not excessively hinder authorized users. It strikes a balance between overly strict and overly lenient access protection for the device. Normal operation allows for the recognition of authorized users while preventing unauthorized users from using the device.

[0051] Updating the operating state may include the control circuit updating the operating state of the aerosol supply device to an operational state in response to receiving a signal from the detector related to the characteristics of an authorized user. Updating the operating state may also include the control circuit updating the operating state of the aerosol supply device to a non-operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector related to the characteristics of an unauthorized user.

[0052] Display conditions can be updated to correspond to the operating state or other factors. For example, a user's movement should be within a first confidence threshold that the device should recognize. If the user's movement is within a second, more lenient confidence threshold, the device may respond by updating the display conditions, instructing the user to try the movement again. In this way, if the user has mistakenly nearly performed an operating movement, they may be notified to repeat the action. In this case, the user learns that the device did not immediately recognize the movement. Such a configuration improves the overall user experience because the user does not feel frustrated repeating a movement that they believe to be a correct operating movement, but which the device considers close but not exactly accurate.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The full range of operating states of the aerosol dispensing device (or system) disclosed herein can be very broad, assisting the aerosol dispensing device 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] Predefined movements 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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 user activity to the user's authorization status. This may be preferable if the manufacturer finds that certain activity is difficult to reliably reproduce by the user. Thus, the resilience and user experience of this system are improved by using the remote database.

[0061] 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.

[0062] The methods and devices disclosed herein enable protection against device use without requiring a cumbersome authorization process, which requires as much effort as the device manufacturer or user would desire. This improves the user experience of the device and the safety of general device 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] When combined with an aerosol generating medium, the aerosol supply devices disclosed herein may be referred to as aerosol supply systems.

[0066] Accordingly, an aerosol supply device for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user is described, comprising a control circuit for controlling the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device, and a detector configured to detect movement relating to an authorized user and provide a signal to the control circuit, wherein the movement is at least one of i) movement of the device and ii) movement of the user, and the control circuit is configured to update the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving a signal relating to an authorized user from the detector.

[0067] Aerosol supply systems can be used in tobacco industry products, such as non-combustion aerosol supply systems.

[0068] 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.

[0069] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] In one embodiment, the heating product is an electronic device.

[0074] 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.

[0075] In one embodiment, the heated product is a non-electronic article.

[0076] 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.

[0077] In one embodiment, the heated product also includes a filter capable of filtering out aerosols generated by heating an aerosolizable substrate.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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 control circuit for controlling the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device, A detector configured to detect movements associated with an authorized user and provide a signal to the control circuit, The aforementioned movement is provided, i) Device movement and, ii) User movements and an aerosol supply device, at least one of the above, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving the signal related to the authorized user 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 the signal related to the authorized user from the detector.

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 the signal related to the authorized user from the detector.

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 the signal related to the authorized user from the detector.

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 the signal related to the authorized user from the detector.

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 the signal related to the authorized user from the detector.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the display conditions of the aerosol supply device to boost operation display conditions in response to receiving the signal related to the authorized user from the detector.

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, further comprising a display screen, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the display conditions of the display screen.

10. 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 control circuit for controlling the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device, A detector configured to detect movements associated with an authorized user and provide a signal to the control circuit, The aforementioned movement is provided, i) Device movement and, ii) User movements and an aerosol generating system comprising at least one of the above, wherein the control circuit is configured to update the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device in response to receiving the signal related to the authorized user from the detector.

11. The aerosol generation system according to claim 10, wherein the detector is not integrated with the aerosol supply device.

12. In response to the control circuit receiving the signal related to the authorized user from the detector, 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 10 or 11, configured to be updated to at least one of the following.

13. In response to the control circuit receiving the signal related to the authorized user from the detector, the display conditions of the aerosol supply device are set as follows: Operating display conditions, Non-operation display conditions, and Boost operation display conditions The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 10 to 12, configured to be updated to at least one of the above.

14. The aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 10 to 13, 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.

15. The aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 10 to 14, further comprising a display screen, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the display conditions of the display screen.

16. A method for updating the operating state to supply an aerosol for inhalation by a user, The steps include detecting movement associated with an authorized user of an aerosol supply device using a detector, The step of providing a signal to the control circuit of the aerosol supply device using the detector, The aforementioned characteristics are, i) Device movement and, ii) User movements and The steps to provide are at least one of the following: The control circuit, in response to receiving a signal related to an unauthorized user from the detector, updates the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply device. Methods that include...

17. The method according to claim 16, 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 operational state in response to receiving the signal related to the authorized user from the detector.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, 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 a non-operating state in response to receiving a signal from the detector relating to the authorized user.

19. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the step of updating the display conditions of the aerosol supply device by the control circuit includes the step of updating the display conditions on the display screen of the aerosol supply device.

20. Aerosol supply means for supplying an aerosol for inhalation by a user, Control means for controlling the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply means, A detection means configured to detect movements associated with an authorized user and provide a signal to the control means, The aforementioned movement is provided, i) Device movement and, ii) User movements and an aerosol supply means, at least one of the above, wherein the control means is configured to update the operating state and / or display conditions of the aerosol supply means in response to receiving the signal relating to the authorized user from the detection means.

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