Charger for aerosol generator

Abstract

To provide an aerosol generator charger that can be used as a social recharging hub to promote social connectivity. A charger (100) for charging multiple batteries together or simultaneously has the ability to associate battery identifiers of one or more batteries with a user. The user is associated with an aerosol generating device and a mobile user device (108). The charger establishes a connection with the mobile user device and communicates with the mobile user device using a communication interface (106). User data, such as preferences, interests, and music, is communicated from the mobile user device to the charger and used to facilitate social opportunities for the user, particularly in public or social spaces with other users, or to make the space around the user more comfortable.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to chargers, such as social recharging hubs, configured to charge aerosol generating devices and facilitate social connectivity. [Background technology]

[0002] Handheld aerosol generating devices, such as cartomizer e-cigarettes, are known, which utilize a vaporized liquid or a heated solid material (which may include tobacco) to generate an inhalable aerosol. These devices may provide an alternative experience to traditional combustion cigarettes. Some devices may adopt a look and feel similar to a traditional cigarette, which may be familiar, easy to handle, portable, and simple to manufacture. Many aerosol generating devices require a power source, such as a battery, to provide power to the aerosolizer to generate the aerosol.

[0003] Some aerosol generating devices may require various maintenance actions that are unfamiliar to traditional cigarette users. For example, some aerosol generating devices have batteries that must be periodically recharged to function properly. During recharging, the aerosol generating device may be unusable. Traditional cigarette users may feel uncomfortable with the lack of engagement with the aerosol generating device during recharging, which is not necessary for traditional cigarettes, especially in public or social situations. Furthermore, in some social situations, users in a group may wish to use their devices simultaneously (e.g., during a work break or while waiting for public transportation), thus requiring multiple users in a group to recharge their aerosol generating devices simultaneously. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In general, the present disclosure relates to a charger for an aerosol generating device having the ability to charge a battery for the aerosol generating device and to associate a battery identifier of the battery with a user of the aerosol generating device. The charger may be capable of charging multiple batteries together or simultaneously. The user of the aerosol generating device may also be a user of a mobile user device that may establish a connection with and communicate with the charger using a communication interface. User data such as preferences, interests, etc., and music may be communicated from the mobile user device to the charger and may be used to facilitate social opportunities for the user, especially in public or social spaces with other users, or to make the space around the user more comfortable.

[0005] Various aspects of the present disclosure relate to a charger for an aerosol generating device. The charger includes a charging interface operably coupled to a battery for the aerosol generating device. The charger also includes a communication interface for communicating with a mobile user device while at least the battery is coupled to the charging interface. The mobile user device is separated from the battery. The charger further includes a controller operably coupled to the charging interface and the communication interface. The controller is configured to determine a unique battery identifier corresponding to the battery to enable the controller to distinguish one battery from other batteries coupled to the charging interface. The controller is also configured to establish a connection with the mobile user device using the communication interface. The connection is configured to communicate user data. The controller is further configured to associate the battery identifier with the mobile user device in response to determining the battery identifier and establishing the connection with the mobile user device.

[0006] Various aspects of the disclosure relate to a charger for an aerosol generating device. The charger includes a charging interface operably coupleable to a battery for the aerosol generating device and to at least one other battery for an aerosol generating device of another user. The charger also includes a communication interface for communicating with a mobile user device while at least the battery is coupled to the charging interface. The charger further includes a controller operably coupled to the charging interface and the communication interface. The controller is configured to establish a connection with the mobile user device using the communication interface when at least the battery is coupled to the charging interface. The connection is configured to communicate user data. The controller is also configured to receive user data from the mobile user device using the connection. The controller is further configured to provide social data based on the user data to one or both of the charging interface and the communication interface to share with other users having batteries coupled to the charging interface.

[0007] Various aspects of the disclosure relate to a charger for an aerosol generating device. The charger includes a charging interface operably coupleable to a battery for the aerosol generating device. The charger also includes an air sensor configured to detect contaminants. The charger further includes a controller operably coupled to the charging interface and the air sensor. The controller is configured to detect contaminants using the air sensor. The controller is also configured to activate an air mover in response to detecting the contaminant.

[0008] Various aspects of the disclosure relate to a charger for an aerosol generating device. The charger includes a charging interface operably coupled to a battery for the aerosol generating device. The charger also includes a cleaning port for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol generating device for cleaning, the cleaning port having an activatable cleaning element for cleaning the aerosol generating device when at least a portion is received in the cleaning port. The charger further includes a controller operably coupled to the charging interface and the cleaning element. The controller is configured to activate the cleaning element to clean the aerosol generating device. The controller is also configured to establish a connection with a mobile user device.

[0009] In one or more aspects, the controller is operatively coupled to the communication interface for communicating with the mobile user device at least while the battery is coupled to the charging interface. The controller is configured to establish a connection with the mobile user device using the communication interface. The connection is configured to communicate user data. The controller is also configured to associate a battery identifier with the mobile user device after establishing a connection with the mobile user device.

[0010] In one or more aspects, the user data includes one or more of a username associated with the mobile user device, an identifier for the mobile user device, a maximum battery charge time, one or more battery identifiers associated with the mobile user device, cleaning data, calendar data, mobility data, multimedia data, user preference data, and social data.

[0011] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to establish the connection using a Bluetooth protocol.

[0012] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to associate a battery identifier with the mobile user device based on user data communicated between the communications interface and the mobile user device.

[0013] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to receive a battery identifier using the charging interface in response to coupling the battery to the charging interface.

[0014] In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to transmit the battery identifier to the mobile user device using the communications interface, and after transmitting the battery identifier to the mobile user device, the controller is configured to receive a determination from the mobile user device that the battery identifier matches the mobile user device.

[0015] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to transmit the battery identifier to any mobile user devices connected to the controller to associate the battery with the particular mobile user device.

[0016] In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to receive from the mobile user device one or more battery identifiers associated with the mobile user device, and to determine whether the battery identifier matches one of the one or more received battery identifiers.

[0017] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to disconnect from the mobile user device in response to determining that the battery identifiers do not match.

[0018] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to search for another mobile user device in response to determining that the battery identifiers do not match.

[0019] In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to disconnect from the mobile user device in response to the battery being removed from the charging interface.

[0020] In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to detect a user action associated with the battery. The controller is also configured to transmit the battery identifier to the mobile user device using the communications interface in response to detecting the user action.

[0021] In one or more aspects, the charging interface includes a screen, and the controller is further configured to generate a visual element based on user data from the mobile user device and display the visual element on the screen.

[0022] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to adjust the battery charging current based on a maximum battery charging time received from the mobile user device.

[0023] In one or more aspects, the maximum battery charge time is determined in response to one or more of calendar data, travel data, and user preference data.

[0024] In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to store an association between the battery and the mobile user device. The controller is also configured to locate the mobile user device using the communication interface in response to the battery being recoupled to the charging interface.

[0025] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to transmit charger data to the mobile user device using the communications interface, the charger data including one or more of a battery charge level, a time until the battery is fully charged, an alert that the battery is fully charged, an alert that the battery remains operably coupled to the charging interface in response to the user having an upcoming event, a time since last cleaning of the aerosol generating device in the charger, a geographic location of the charger, and service offers.

[0026] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to charge the battery according to one or more of a quick charge mode and a load balancing mode.

[0027] In one or more aspects, the controller can be operatively coupled to a wireless network to transmit messages related to battery charging to a mobile user device.

[0028] In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to determine social data based on the user data from the mobile user device. The controller is also configured to share the social data with other mobile user devices with which it has an established connection using the communications interface.

[0029] In one or more aspects, the charger includes a housing having a charging interface, the housing further including a locking element assignable to one or more users.

[0030] In one or more aspects, the charging interface allows a user to lock a battery to the charging interface to prevent others from removing the battery.

[0031] Advantageously, the use of the charger transforms the challenge of multiple users having to charge their aerosol generating devices into an opportunity for social exchange. The charger may also provide a personalized recharging experience that may take into account the user's calendar and travel schedule, as well as the user's entertainment preferences. Additionally, the charger may facilitate social opportunities with other users of the charger by sharing social information with other users. Still further, the charger may provide convenient cleaning of one or more components of the aerosol generating device that may be used in conjunction with battery charging. Additionally, the charger may facilitate a more comfortable ambient environment for users in proximity to the charger by communicating with one or more environmental controls that are remote to the charger. Other benefits will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The present disclosure herein describes the charger in greater detail.

[0032] All scientific and technical terms used herein have meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions provided herein are provided to facilitate understanding of certain terms used frequently herein.

[0033] The term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device configured to use an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device also preferably includes an aerosolizer, such as an atomizer, cartomizer, or heater.

[0034] The term "aerosol-generating substrate" refers to a device or substrate that upon heating releases volatile compounds that can form an aerosol that is inhaled by a user. Suitable aerosol-generating substrates may include plant-derived materials. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate may include tobacco or tobacco-containing materials that contain volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-generating substrate upon heating. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-generating substrate may include non-tobacco-containing materials. The aerosol-generating substrate may include homogenized plant-derived materials. The aerosol-generating substrate may include at least one aerosol former. The aerosol-generating substrate may include other additives and ingredients, such as flavorants. The aerosol-generating substrate is preferably liquid at room temperature. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid solution, suspension, dispersion, etc. Preferably, the aerosol-generating substrate includes glycerol, propylene glycol, water, nicotine, and optionally one or more flavorants. Preferably, the aerosol-generating substrate includes nicotine.

[0035] The term "tobacco material" refers to a material or substance that contains tobacco, including, for example, a tobacco blend or flavored tobacco.

[0036] The term "cartomizer" refers to the cartridge and atomizer combination that is part of an electronic cigarette.

[0037] The present disclosure provides a charger for an aerosol generating device, which may be described as a social recharging hub configured to charge multiple aerosol generating devices and to facilitate social connections between users of the aerosol generating devices.

[0038] The aerosol-generating device may use or include an aerosol-generating substrate, which may be formed from or contained in a cartridge or heat stick that may be coupled to the housing of the aerosol-generating device.

[0039] The aerosolizer may be operably coupled to the aerosol-generating substrate and generate an aerosol when activated. In particular, the aerosolizer may be thermally coupled to the aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosolizer may also be coupled to the housing of the aerosol-generating device. The aerosolizer may be at least partially or completely disposed within the mouth of the aerosol-generating device. The aerosolizer may be at least partially disposed within the controller portion.

[0040] The aerosolizer may utilize any suitable technique to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosolizer may use heat to generate the aerosol and include one or more heating components, such as a heating blade, a heater, or an induction coil and a susceptor (which utilizes induction heating). The susceptor may be any suitable structure capable of being heated by induction, such as a mesh heater. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosolizer may include a vibrating element that may not require heat to generate the aerosol. The heating blade may be useful for inserting into a solid substrate and being heated to generate the aerosol. The heater may include a heating element disposed adjacent to a liquid substrate that is heated to generate the aerosol. The heater may be a mesh heater. The mesh heater may allow the liquid substrate stored in the storage compartment to pass through gaps in the mesh heater from one side of the mesh to the other side of the mesh.

[0041] The aerosol-generating substrate may be contained within the substrate housing. The substrate may be described as a heat stick or the contents of the heat stick. The aerosolizer may be coupled to the consumable device to aerosolize the heat stick or the contents of the heat stick. The heat provided to the heat stick by the heating blade may not combust the smoking material. The smoking material may include tobacco.

[0042] The aerosolizer may include a heater, a heater coil, a chemical heat source such as a carbon heat source, or any suitable means for heating the liquid substrate to generate an aerosol from the liquid substrate. The aerosolizer may receive electrical energy or power to emit or generate an aerosol from the liquid substrate. The aerosolizer may be a heater that changes temperature depending on the electrical energy received. For example, the heater may increase in temperature in response to receiving a higher voltage. The aerosolizer may be disposed adjacent to the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the aerosolizer may be coupled adjacent to the liquid substrate.

[0043] The aerosolizer may be compatible for use with an aerosol-generating substrate having a nicotine source and a lactic acid source. The nicotine source may include a sorption element (such as a PTFE wick with nicotine adsorbed thereon), which may be inserted into the chamber forming the first compartment. The lactic acid source may include a sorption element (such as a PTFE wick with lactic acid adsorbed thereon), which may be inserted into the chamber forming the second compartment. The aerosolizer may include a heater for heating both the nicotine source and the lactic acid source. The nicotine vapor then reacts with the lactic acid vapor in the gas phase to form an aerosol.

[0044] The aerosolizer may have a capsule containing nicotine particles and be compatible for use with an aerosol-generating substrate disposed within a cavity. During a user's inhalation, airflow may rotate the capsule. The rotation may suspend and aerosolize the nicotine particles.

[0045] The aerosol-generating device may include an actuator. The actuator may include a button or other type of switch. The actuator may be pressed, toggled, or otherwise engaged in response to user manipulation. Engagement of the actuator may initiate various functions of the aerosol-generating substrate. An aerosolizer may be activated in response to engagement of the actuator.

[0046] The actuator may be coupled to a housing of the aerosol generating device. For example, the actuator may be located within or on a housing of the aerosol generating device that is accessible by a user. In particular, the actuator may be located on a control of the aerosol generating device. The actuator may be associated with one or more functions. The actuator may be used to power on (e.g., activate) and power off (e.g., deactivate) the aerosolizer or other components of the aerosol generating device. The actuator may utilize any suitable mechanism for receiving input from a user, such as a mechanical button that may be pressed by the user.

[0047] Additionally, or as an alternative to an actuator, a puff sensor may be operably coupled to the aerosolizer to activate the aerosolizer. The puff sensor may be operably coupled to a controller of the aerosol generating device. The puff sensor may detect inhalation by a user at the mouth of the aerosol generating device. The puff sensor may be positioned in an airflow channel within the aerosol generating device to detect when a user inhales or puffs on the device. Puffs may be detected by the controller using the puff sensor. Non-limiting types of puff sensors may include one or more of a vibrating membrane, a piezoelectric sensor, a mesh-like membrane, a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive pressure sensor), or an airflow switch.

[0048] The power source may be used to power the aerosolizer or other components of the aerosol generating device. The power source may be operably coupled to at least the aerosolizer. The power source may also be operably coupled to the display or control circuitry. The power source may be located in a controller portion of the aerosol generating device. The power source may be a battery. The aerosol generating device may accept disposable or rechargeable batteries. The power source may include a charging interface configured to operably couple to an external power source to charge the battery.

[0049] A battery may include a battery identifier, such as a serial number, that may be used to identify the battery. The battery identifier may be stored in the battery's memory or may be accessible via a connection on the battery, such as the battery terminals. The battery identifier may be retrieved through the battery terminals when the battery is being charged, or even before or after charging. The battery identifier may be received by the charger before charging or early in the charging process.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, the battery identifier may be visible to a user of the battery. For example, the battery identifier may be printed on a label attached to the surface of the battery that can be read by a user. The battery identifier may be printed as a code, such as a barcode or QR code, which can be read by any suitable barcode reader. The charger may also receive the battery identifier in response to user input, for example, input to a mobile user device operably coupled to the charger, or input to the charger itself when a user interface is provided.

[0051] The charger may be located in any or convenient area for one or more users of the aerosol generating device to access and recharge their batteries. For example, a user may enjoy using the aerosol generating device one or more times while the user is out in public, such as during work hours or while traveling. The batteries may need to be recharged in such public and social spaces, which may include locations in or near an office, or at airplane, train, or bus transit centers. The charger may be a permanent fixture in the area, or may be a portable charger.

[0052] The charger may have the capability to recharge one or more batteries. Multiple batteries may preferably be charged together (e.g., at one time or simultaneously). Each battery may correspond to a different user or aerosol generating device. The charger may include a charging interface operably coupleable to one or more batteries. The charging interface may be configured to operate with multiple different. In particular, the charger may include one or more charging ports, each capable of receiving a battery for charging.

[0053] The power source may allow the charger to be plugged into an electrical outlet to power the charger. The charger may also include a battery to allow for portable charging of the aerosol generator battery.

[0054] The charger may include a graphical user interface, such as one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) or a display screen. Various information, such as an identifier, a name, a message, an alert, an alarm, etc., may be provided by the graphical user interface to one or more users in the vicinity of the charger. The graphical user interface may also include a user input capability, such as an actuator or a touch screen. The graphical user interface may be used to indicate a charging state of a battery being charged by the charger, for example, using an LED located in close proximity to or adjacent to the battery being charged. The graphical user interface may be used to facilitate social features (e.g., social gaming). For example, one or more LEDs in close proximity to or adjacent to the battery may be modulated, such as igniting or blinking simultaneously, to indicate a user's interest or to indicate a common interest among multiple users. As another example, the screen may show a visual element that indicates users with the same interest using an on-screen message.

[0055] The graphical user interface may include one or more display screens. The graphical user interface may include specific screens associated with one or more charging ports. For example, each charging port may have a different associated specific screen. Information about a user may be displayed on the specific screen based on user data, such as the user's name, or specific preferences or interests.

[0056] The graphical user interface may include a general or primary screen associated with multiple charging ports (e.g., some or all). The general screen may be located in the center of the charger and may be visible to multiple users. Global messages may be displayed on the general screen, which may be used to increase socialization among users. For example, the charger may include one or more speakers that may be used to provide information or entertainment, such as music, to users. The general screen may display the name of the music currently being played on the charger's speakers, which may be transmitted to the charger from one of the connected mobile user devices.

[0057] The charger may allow a user to lock an aerosol generating device coupled to the charger, e.g., coupled to a charging interface or a cleaning interface. For example, the charger may allow a user to lock a battery coupled to the charging interface. When locked, the battery may not be easily removed from the charging interface. Locking the battery may mitigate a user from accidentally removing the wrong battery (e.g., a battery belonging to another user) from the charger. The user may unlock the battery with user input. The user may provide input to lock or unlock the battery using a mobile user device, such as a smartphone or tablet, that is accessible to the user.

[0058] The charging interface may include one or more actuators, such as buttons, which may be in addition to or instead of a touch screen on the charging interface. For example, at least one actuator may be associated with one of the batteries coupled to the charging interface. A user action, such as pressing a button, may be received as user input. The user input may be used for various functions of the charger. For example, pressing a button may command the charger to transmit a battery identifier of the battery associated with the button to a mobile user device.

[0059] The charger may include a speaker to provide further interaction for the user. For example, music may be provided from the mobile user device to the charger for playing on the speaker. The speaker may also be used for informational purposes to alert the user with messages related to, for example, charging status or schedule.

[0060] The cleaning port may be provided accessible to one or more users. One or more components of the aerosol generating device, such as the heating blade, may need to be cleaned from time to time. The cleaning port may include an actuatable cleaning element that may be used to clean one or more components of the aerosol generating device before, during, or after charging the battery. A non-limiting example of an actuatable cleaning element is a rotating brush disposed at least partially within the cleaning port.

[0061] The charger may include a housing that maintains or at least partially houses one or more components of the charger. One or more of the power source, the graphical user interface, the charging interface, the speaker, and the cleaning port may be coupled to the housing and at least partially disposed within or on the housing. One or more of the graphical user interface, the charging interface including one or more charging ports, and the one or more cleaning ports may form at least a portion of an exterior surface of the housing. For example, the charging port and the cleaning port may be disposed within or formed within the housing to create a receptacle for receiving a component of the aerosol generating device.

[0062] The charger and housing may be modular. In other words, the charger may include one or more modules, or multiple modules, to perform various functions. For example, the housing of the charger may include one or more removably connectable parts. Each of the modules, or each of the removably connectable parts, may be connected to form a stack. One module may include a charging interface. Another module may provide a power source for the charger, which may include a battery or a connection to an external power source (e.g., a wall outlet). Yet another module may provide an air quality sensor and may be operably connectable to the air mover to control the air mover (e.g., using a wired or wireless connection). An additional module may include a cleaning port, which may include, for example, a rotating brush for cleaning the heating blade. In this manner, the functionality of the charger may be conveniently customized to the requirements of a particular location.

[0063] One or more locking elements may be operably coupled to the charger. For example, the locking elements may be lockable compartments (e.g., drawers or lockers) or attachable components (e.g., lock wires coupled to the aerosol generating device). The charger may assign one or more users, who may be identified with user data or a battery identifier, to each locking element. The locking elements may be coupled to the housing of the charger. The locking elements may be remote to the housing but controllable by the charger. The locking elements may be used to secure or store various aerosol-generating substrates, or any other items such as sensory media or other aerosol-generating accessories. In addition to or as an alternative to traditional mechanical locks, the locking elements may use electronically controllable locks that lock and unlock in response to the presence of a user or in response to user input. For example, when a user couples a battery to a charger identified with the same user, the locking elements assigned to that user may be unlocked because the user is present. When the user removes the battery from the charger, the locking elements may be locked. As another example, a user may provide user input to a mobile user device in communication with a graphical user interface or charger that identifies the user, which may command an associated locking element to be locked or unlocked.

[0064] The locking and unlocking features associated with the locking element may be the same as or different from the battery lock features, or vice versa.

[0065] The charger may provide a communications interface that may be used to communicate with one or more other devices, such as a mobile user device. The communications interface may be configured to communicate with one or more mobile user devices. In particular, the communications interface may communicate with the mobile user devices at least while batteries associated with the same user are coupled to the charging interface. The mobile user devices may also be used to manage various functions of the charger (e.g., charging, cleaning, air quality, etc.).

[0066] The communication interface may use any suitable technology to communicate with other devices. The communication interface may utilize wireless communication. Non-limiting examples of wireless communication include the use of a Bluetooth connection, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Additionally or alternatively, the communication interface may utilize wired communication, such as Universal Serial Bus (USB) or power line communication. Additionally, the charger may have the capability to charge one or more mobile devices through the communication interface (or through another interface), for example, using a USB connection.

[0067] A sensor may be provided by the charger, such as an air sensor for air quality. The air sensor may be used to detect pollutants near the charger. The air sensor may be on the charger or may be located remotely of the charger (e.g., operatively coupled by a wired or wireless connection). Non-limiting examples of pollutants detectable by the air sensor include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide (CO2), etc. If a pollutant is detected, an alert of poor air quality may be sent to the mobile user device.

[0068] The charger may include a controller that may be operatively coupled to one or more other components of the charger to perform various functions described herein. The controller may include a memory or memory unit that stores one or more instructions that may be executed by a processor or processing unit of the controller.

[0069] The controller may be operably coupled to the charging interface and the communication interface. The controller may, for example, receive a battery identifier using the charging interface. In response to coupling the battery to the charging interface, the controller may be able to access the battery identifier.

[0070] The controller may determine a battery identifier corresponding to a battery coupled to the charging interface, for example using the charging port. The controller may be connected to multiple charging ports. In response to a battery being coupled to the charging interface, the controller may be able to determine the corresponding battery identifier.

[0071] The controller may establish a connection with the mobile user device using the communication interface, for example, at least when the battery is coupled to the charging interface. The controller may be triggered or have the ability to detect the coupling of the battery to the charging interface and initiate a connection to the mobile user device. The charger may be able to establish a connection to the mobile user device before the battery is coupled to the charging interface. For example, a user may engage an actuator or touch screen associated with a particular charging port to establish a connection to the mobile user device, after which the battery may be coupled to the charging port. The connection may be used, for example, to communicate user data from the mobile user device to the charger, or vice versa. Other types of data may also be communicated via the connection.

[0072] The controller may transmit the battery identifier to the mobile user device using the communications interface. For example, the mobile user device may not have stored a battery identifier associated with a battery for the aerosol generating device. In response to detecting a user action (e.g., a user engaging an actuator corresponding to one of the charging ports), the battery identifier received by the controller using the charging interface may be communicated over the connection to the mobile user device. The mobile user device may then store the battery identifier.

[0073] The controller may also receive a determination from the mobile user device that the battery identifier matches the mobile user device. The mobile user device may have stored one or more battery identifiers associated with a battery or batteries for the aerosol generating device. The battery identifier may be transmitted from the charger to the mobile user device after the battery is coupled to the charging interface. The mobile user device may determine that the received battery identifier matches one of the stored battery identifiers. The mobile user device may transmit to the charger a determination that the battery identifier of the battery coupled to the charging interface matches or is associated with a user of the mobile device.

[0074] The controller may receive one or more battery identifiers from the mobile user device. The one or more battery identifiers may be associated with the mobile user device (e.g., previously identified as associated with the mobile user device), may be stored on the mobile user device, or may be transmitted from the mobile user device to the charger. The controller may receive the one or more battery identifiers for comparison with battery identifiers received using the charging interface after the battery is coupled to the charging interface. In response to a battery identifier from a coupled battery matching one of the battery identifiers received from the mobile user device, the controller may determine that the battery identifier is associated with the mobile user device.

[0075] The controller may associate the battery identifier with the mobile user device in response to determining the battery identifier and establishing a connection with the mobile user device (e.g., transmitting or receiving one or more battery identifiers for comparison). Additionally or alternatively, the battery identifier may be associated with the mobile user device based on user data communicated between the communications interface and the mobile user device. For example, a user may interact with the mobile user device to indicate that a battery coupled to the charging interface may be associated with a particular mobile user device after establishing a connection.

[0076] The controller may receive user data from the mobile user device using the connection. The user data may include any data associated with a user of the mobile user device. Non-limiting examples of user data include a username associated with the mobile user device, an identifier of the mobile user device, a maximum battery charge time, one or more battery identifiers associated with the mobile user device, cleaning data (e.g., time since last cleaning of the aerosol generating device), calendar data (e.g., appointments), travel data (e.g., travel schedule or past travel history), multimedia data (e.g., music or other files), user preference data (e.g., air quality preferences, room lighting, or entertainment preferences such as types of music or movies), or social data (e.g., hobbies, interests, or favorite music). Non-limiting examples of identifiers of the mobile user device include an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), a Mobile Equipment Identification (MEID), an Electronic Serial Number (ESN), or an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI).

[0077] The controller may be capable of providing social data based on user data, where the social data may be received from a mobile user device. For example, the controller may indicate on a graphical user interface the number of users who enjoy a particular type of music based on data from a connected mobile user device indicating enjoyment of the particular type of music. The controller may share the social data of a connected mobile user device with other connected mobile user devices using the communications interface.

[0078] The controller may also be coupled to an air sensor to detect one or more contaminants near the charger. The controller may further be operably coupled to an air mover. The air mover may be part of the charger or may be located remotely from the charger (e.g., coupled by a wired or wireless connection). The air mover may be located in close proximity to the charger, adjacent to the charger, or in a space or volume shared with the charger. Non-limiting examples of air movers include electric fans, air conditioning units, or heating units. Non-limiting examples of wireless connections include Wi-Fi or "smart switch" connections.

[0079] The air mover may blow air, disperse air, or extract contaminants from the air. The air mover may be described as an air cleaner, ventilator, or air circulator. For example, the air mover may include a replaceable activated carbon filter to filter odors from an enclosed space shared with the charger, which may be used in contaminant extraction mode. The air mover may also be positioned to periodically release an air freshener into the air mover's air stream, either manually or automatically.

[0080] The controller may (e.g., automatically) activate or turn on the air mover in response to automatic contaminant detection or may provide suggestions to the user. The controller may coordinate activation of the air mover upon receiving user preference data, for example, from a mobile user device or by user input. Once the air mover is activated by the controller, the fan may be stopped or turned off, for example, after a predetermined time or in response to an air sensor reading a drop below a predetermined threshold (e.g., a threshold concentration) or overall threshold air quality.

[0081] The mobile user device may be operably coupled to the air mover, for example, to start or stop the air mover in response to user input, or to change the mode of the air mover (e.g., between fan mode or pollutant extractor mode). The air mover may be operably coupled to the mobile user device using the communication interface of the charger. When the mobile user device receives a low air quality alert, the user may respond with a user input to an actuator operably coupled to the mobile user device, the charger, or the air mover. When multiple mobile user devices are connected to the controller, it may be possible for any user to control the fan.

[0082] The controller may be coupled to a light sensor to detect lighting conditions around the charger. The controller may further be operatively coupled to room lighting. Upon receiving user preference data, for example from a mobile user device or by user input, the controller may automatically adjust the room lighting or provide suggestions to the user.

[0083] The controller may further be coupled to the cleaning element. The controller may activate the cleaning element to clean the aerosol-generating device automatically, for example, in response to detecting the presence of the aerosol-generating device in the cleaning port. Additionally or alternatively, the controller may activate the cleaning element in response to a user action (e.g., engagement of an actuator associated with the cleaning port).

[0084] The controller may be disconnected from the mobile user device. For example, the mobile user device may be disconnected in response to determining that a battery identifier received using the charging interface does not match a mobile user device connected using the communications interface. In response to determining that the battery identifiers do not match, the controller may search for a mobile user device that matches a battery coupled to the charging interface. The mobile user device may also be disconnected in response to a battery not being coupled to or being removed from the charging interface. For example, the controller may disconnect the mobile user device when a user removes the battery from the charging interface.

[0085] The controller may detect a user action associated with the battery. For example, an actuator associated with a charging port that receives the battery may be engaged by a user. The engagement may indicate that the controller should establish a connection with the mobile user device, or may even indicate that the controller should disconnect the mobile user device associated with the battery.

[0086] The controller may generate a visual element (e.g., viewable on a screen of a graphical user interface associated with the charging interface) based on user data from the mobile user device. For example, the user data may include calendar data and the visual element displayed on the screen may be a reminder of the user's next appointment.

[0087] The controller may have the capability to adjust the battery charging current of the battery based on the maximum battery charging time. The controller may have the capability to charge the battery in a quick charge mode (more current for a particular battery) or a load balancing mode (e.g., charger running on battery and not plugged in). The maximum battery charging time may be determined by the controller in response to one or more of calendar data, travel data, and user preference data. The controller may enter a quick charge mode for the battery in response to a user's calendar indicating an urgent appointment, which may be more urgent than other users' scheduled battery charging.

[0088] The charger data may be transmitted to the mobile user device using the communication interface. The charger data may be any data related to the charger. Non-limiting examples of the charger data include the charge level of the battery, the time until the battery is fully charged, an alert that the battery is fully charged, an alert that the battery remains operably coupled to the charging interface in response to the user having an upcoming event, the time since the last cleaning of the aerosol generating device in this charger, the geographic location of the charger, or service offers (cleaning, quick charge, etc.).

[0089] The geographic location of the charger may be used by a mobile user device, for example, to keep track of where a user has charged a battery. The geographic location history may be useful as social data. For example, the historical location data may be used in social functions, for example, to match a user with other users who have or have not traveled to the same geographic location. The geographic location data may be useful as user preference data. For example, the controller may adjust a threshold air quality based on a user's preferences, such as a local level of air quality (e.g., based on the air quality standards where the user lives), before turning on the air mover.

[0090] Additionally or alternatively, the charger's controller may be coupled to a wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi or cellular) that may or may not include the mobile user device. The controller may use the wireless network to send messages to the mobile user device, for example, related to charging the battery. The user may plug the battery into the charging interface. The controller may establish a connection with the user's mobile user device and retrieve the mobile user device's phone number or other communication identifier. The user may then leave the vicinity of the charger (e.g., return to the office or head to a store or restroom) such that the user is unable to see the charger's graphical user interface, which may indicate the battery's charging status. Once charging is complete, the user may be notified by a message, such as a text message, email, application notification, etc., to return and pick up the charged battery.

[0091] One or more of the controllers described herein may include a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), computer, logic array, or other device capable of directing data into or out of the charger. The controller may include one or more computing devices having memory, processing, and communication hardware. The functions of the controller may be performed by hardware and / or as computer instructions on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0092] The processor of the controller may include any one or more of a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), and / or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry. In some embodiments, the processor may include multiple components such as one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers, one or more DSPs, one or more ASICs, and / or one or more FPGAs, and any combination of other discrete or integrated logic circuitry. The functionality attributed to a controller or processor herein may be embodied as software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof. Although described herein as a processor-based system, alternative controllers may utilize other components such as relays and timers, alone or in combination with a microprocessor-based system, to achieve the desired results.

[0093] The exemplary systems, methods, and interfaces may be implemented using one or more computer programs using a computing device that may include one or more processors and / or memory. The program code and / or logic described herein may be applied to input data / information to perform the functions described herein and generate desired output data / information. The output data / information may be applied as input to one or more other devices or methods as described herein or applied in a known manner. In view of the above, it will be apparent that the controller functions as described herein may be implemented in any manner known to those skilled in the art.

[0094] In addition to other components, the mobile user device may include a user interface. The user interface may include a touch screen that may display various elements such as a keyboard. The user interface may allow the user to input various information such as user data, one or more battery identifiers, air mover control, or cleaning element control. The entered battery identifier may be stored on the mobile user device (e.g., before or after connection to the charger) or may be used for comparison with a battery identifier received using the charging interface of the charger. The user interface may also display various information such as social data from the charger, or messages from the charger. Non-limiting examples of messages from the charger include status messages (e.g., battery charge state), reminders (e.g., appointment or cleaning reminders), or alerts (e.g., suggestions to clean the aerosol generating device based on cleaning data).

[0095] The charger and the mobile user device may use any suitable wireless protocol to establish a connection. The charger and the mobile user device may establish a connection using the Bluetooth protocol. For example, various methods may be used to establish a connection via Bluetooth depending on the version of Bluetooth used.

[0096] When using Bluetooth 4.0 or other star-type networks (e.g., which only allow one master and several slaves operating off the master's clock), the charger may act as a "slave" in a Bluetooth "master-slave" configuration. The charger may enter an advertising mode so that it can be detected by nearby mobile user devices. The mobile user device may act as a "master" for the charger acting as a slave. When the mobile user device detects an advertising packet from the charger, the mobile user device may enable a wireless Bluetooth connection between the charger and the mobile user device. After establishing a connection, the charger and mobile user device may swap roles so that the charger is the master and the mobile user device is the slave.

[0097] When using Bluetooth 4.1 and higher level or other dual topology networks with multi-master characteristics (e.g., which allow for multiple masters as well as multiple slaves), the charger may establish connections to multiple mobile user devices, some acting as slaves and some acting as masters.

[0098] Once a wireless connection is established with a new nearby mobile user device, the charger proceeds to associate the battery and the mobile user device using the battery identifiers, at least for each battery that has not been linked to the mobile user device by the charger. To do so, a specific application may be installed on the mobile user device, which may register and store various information, such as one or more battery identifiers associated with the aerosol generating device or user data (e.g., name or status).

[0099] The charger may read one or more battery identifiers transmitted from the mobile user device, or transmit battery identifiers of batteries coupled to the charger to one or more mobile user devices for a match check. The charger may receive one or more battery identifiers from the mobile user device and perform the check on the controller, which may have advantages in terms of data security.

[0100] The aerosol generating device may be capable of communicating with the mobile user device or the charger. For example, the aerosol generating device may include a communication interface capable of establishing a Bluetooth or other wireless connection. The battery identifier may be received from the aerosol generating device, which may have a controller configured to detect the battery identifier from the battery (e.g., using power line communication). The battery identifier may be transmitted from the aerosol generating device to the charger, or may be transmitted to the mobile user device and then to the charger.

[0101] When a new battery or aerosol generating device is coupled to the charger, the charger may retrieve a battery identifier from the coupled battery. The charger may then attempt to match the battery identifier to one of the connected mobile user devices. If a match is not determined, the charger may continue to establish a connection with the new mobile user device until a match is found. If the charger finds a match for the battery identifier, the mobile user device may be added to the charger's Bluetooth network, or piconet. If a connected mobile user device does not match any of the battery identifiers, the mobile user device may be disconnected. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0102] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an environment in which one or more users may be near a charger. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary aerosol generating device. [Diagram 3]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary charger for an aerosol generating device, such as an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary charger. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flow chart illustrating one exemplary method for establishing a connection between a charger and a mobile user device using a wireless protocol, specifically the Bluetooth protocol. [Figure 6] 4 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method for establishing a connection between a charger and a mobile user device using a wireless protocol, specifically the Bluetooth protocol.

[0103] FIG. 1 illustrates an environment 10 in which one or more users 12 may be in the vicinity of a charger 5. The environment 10 may be a public or social space, such as a train, airplane, or bus transit station. The users 12 may each have an aerosol generating device that may be co-charged by the charger 5. The charger 5 may be in an open or enclosed space where the users congregate around the charger. The charger 5 may facilitate social interaction between the users 12 using a graphical user interface, a speaker, or a mobile user device connected to the charger.

[0104] 2 is a schematic diagram of one exemplary aerosol generating device 16. The device 16 may include a housing 14, a mouth portion 24, and a controller portion 28. A battery 60, or other portable power source, may be operatively coupled to one or more components to power the other components of the aerosol generating device 16. An actuator 26 may be disposed on the controller portion 28. The mouth portion 24 may include an aerosolizer 35 in the form of a heated blade. An aerosol-generating substrate 37 in the form of a heat stick may be inserted into the mouth portion 24 and onto the aerosolizer. A container of the aerosol-generating substrate 37 may include or be coupled to a mouthpiece 40. A user may inhale into the mouthpiece 40 to register the user's puff.

[0105] Thermal brake 62 may be disposed between at least a portion of aerosolizer 35 and control circuitry 54. Aerosolizer 35 may extend through thermal brake 62. Control circuitry 54 may include components that enable various functions of device 16 that may be sensitive to heat generated by aerosolizer 35.

[0106] The control circuitry 54 may include a controller 50, which may be a microcontroller or microprocessor and a communication interface 52. The controller 50 may be operably coupled to the aerosolizer 35 and the communication interface 52. The communication interface 52 may be integrated into the controller 50. The communication interface 52 may have the ability to communicate using a Bluetooth protocol. A puff sensor 51 may be operably coupled to the control circuitry 54 and may be positioned to detect a user's inhalation at the mouth 24. The control circuitry 54 may include a memory 56 operably coupled to the controller 50. The memory 56 may be used to store data.

[0107] Although aerosol generating device 16 is illustrated, other types of aerosol generating devices are contemplated, including, for example, different types of aerosolizers and other components, having a battery 60 .

[0108] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one exemplary charger 100 for an aerosol generating device, such as the aerosol generating device 16. The charger 100 may include a housing 116 that may at least partially house one or more components of the charger 100. The charger 100 may include a charging interface 102 that may be operably coupled to the battery 60 (FIG. 2) of the aerosol generating device 16. The charging interface 102 may include one or more charging ports 104, one or more cleaning ports 114, and a graphical user interface 120. The charging ports 104 and the cleaning ports 114 may be disposed or formed within the housing 116 to create receptacles for receiving the components of the aerosol generating device 16. The graphical user interface 120 may also include one or more specific screens 122 and one or more general screens 124. The graphical user interface 120 may include one or more touch screens associated with the screens 122, 124, or one or more associated actuators that are part of the charging interface 102, for receiving user input.

[0109] A battery 60 (FIG. 2) may be at least partially inserted into or coupled to one or more of the charging ports 104. Other components of the aerosol generating device 16 (FIG. 2), such as the mouthpiece 24 having the aerosolizer 35 (FIG. 2), may be coupled to one of the cleaning ports 114. When the battery 60 is coupled, a specific screen 122 associated with the charging port 104 may display information such as the charging status of the battery or the name of the user. A common screen 124 may be used to display information to multiple users who charge their batteries in one or more of the charging ports 104. The charging ports 104 and cleaning ports 114 may be generally arranged around the common screen 124. Each charging port 104 may be proximate to or adjacent to an associated cleaning port 114 or an associated specific screen 122.

[0110] The charger 100 may include a communication interface 106 for communicating with a mobile user device 108 while at least the battery 60 (FIG. 2) is coupled to the charging interface 102. Various information and data may be communicated between the charger 100 and the mobile user device 108, which may facilitate convenient charging of the charger or social exchange with other users of the charger. The mobile user device 108 may include a screen 110, which may display user data or information about the user related to charging data, and may also include a touch screen for receiving user input. The communication interface 106 may also have the capability to communicate with a wireless network 140, e.g., to send messages to the mobile user device 108, which may be connected to the same wireless network.

[0111] Charger 100 may include a controller 130 operably coupled to charging interface 102 and communications interface 106 to provide various functions of charger 100. Controller 130 may also be operably coupled to locking element 118 (e.g., a lockable component) to facilitate locking and unlocking in response to user input, for example, through mobile user device 108.

[0112] The charger 100 may include an air sensor 112. The air sensor 112 may be used to detect one or more contaminants in the vicinity of the charger 100.

[0113] The charger 100 may include one or more speakers 126 for providing sound to one or more users in the vicinity of the charger. For example, music may be played through the speakers 126 from one of the mobile user devices.

[0114] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of another exemplary charger 200. The charger 200 may be similar to the charger 100 (FIG. 3) and may include many of the same components, except that the charger 200 may be modular. In other words, the housing 216 of the charger 200 may have one or more removably connectable modules, each having various functions. As shown, the charger 200 may include a first module 202, a second module 204, a third module 206, and a fourth module 208. Each of the modules 202, 204, 206, 208 may be operatively connected to form a stack. The first module 202 may include a charging interface 220. The second module 204 may provide a power source, which may include a battery or a connection to an external power source (e.g., a wall outlet). The third module 206 may include an air quality sensor 212. The third module 206 may also be operatively coupled to the air mover 210 and may control the air mover (e.g., using a wired or wireless connection). The fourth module 208 may include one or more cleaning ports 214, each of which may include, for example, a rotating brush for cleaning the heating blades.

[0115] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating one exemplary method 300 for establishing a connection between a charger and a mobile user device using a wireless protocol, specifically the Bluetooth protocol. At step 302, the charger acts as a slave. At step 304, the charger may advertise a connection to potential nearby mobile user devices. At step 306, if the mobile user device acting as a master is connected to the charger, the method 300 continues to step 308. If the mobile user device is not connected, the process may return to step 304. After the mobile user device is connected at step 308, the mobile user device and the charger may swap roles. In other words, the charger may act as a master and the mobile user device may act as a slave. The method 300 may end at step 310, where the mobile user device may be added to the charger's piconet or Bluetooth network.

[0116] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method 400 for establishing a connection between a charger and a mobile user device using a wireless protocol, specifically a Bluetooth protocol. At step 402, the charger may detect that a new battery has been coupled to the charging interface. At step 404, a battery identifier may be removed from the battery. At step 406, the charger may determine whether all connected mobile user devices have been checked for the battery identifier removed from the battery. If not all mobile user devices have been checked, method 400 may continue to step 408 and retrieve battery identifiers from unchecked mobile user devices (e.g., from an application running on the mobile user device). At step 410, the charger may determine whether the battery identifier from the mobile user device matches the battery identifier received from the coupled battery. If not, method 400 returns to step 406 and continues checking the mobile user device for a matching identifier. If the battery identifiers match at step 410, method 400 continues to step 412 and associates the coupled battery with the mobile user device.

[0117] If all connected mobile user devices have been checked at step 406, method 400 may continue at step 414, where the charger may advertise the presence of the charger to other nearby mobile user devices. At step 416, the charger may determine whether a new mobile user device has been connected. If not, method 400 may repeat step 414. If a new mobile user device is connected to the charger (e.g., the charger is connected to the master mobile user device as a slave), method 400 may continue at step 418, where the roles of the mobile user device and the charger may be swapped. In other words, the charger may act as the master and the mobile user device may act as the slave. At step 420, the mobile user device may be added to the charger's piconet.

[0118] At step 422, the charger may retrieve one or more battery identifiers from the mobile user device. Specifically, an application running on the mobile user device may provide the battery identifiers to the charger. The charger may then determine, at step 424, whether the battery identifier retrieved from the bound battery matches the battery identifier received from the mobile user device. If there is a match, method 400 proceeds to step 412 and associates the bound battery with the mobile user device. At step 426, if the battery identifiers do not match, the charger may be disconnected from the new mobile user device. Method 300 then proceeds to step 414 and continues advertising to connect potential mobile user devices.

[0119] The particular embodiments described above are intended to illustrate the invention, however, it should be understood that other embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims, and that the particular embodiments described above are not intended to be limiting.

[0120] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include embodiments having plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0121] As used herein, "or" is generally used in its inclusive sense unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "and / or" refers to one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

[0122] As used herein, the words "have," "having," "include," "including," "comprises," "comprising," and the like are used in an open-ended sense and generally mean "including, but not limited to." It should be understood that "consisting essentially of," "consisting of," and the like are encompassed by "comprising" and the like.

[0123] The terms "coupled" or "connected" refer to elements that are attached to each other either directly (in direct contact with each other) or indirectly (having one or more elements between and attaching the two elements). Either term may be modified by "operatively" and "operably," which may be used interchangeably, to describe that the coupling or connection is configured to allow the components to interact to perform at least some functions (e.g., a mobile user device may be operatively coupled to a cellular network to send and receive data therefrom).

[0124] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may, under particular circumstances, offer certain advantages. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Moreover, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A charger for an aerosol generating device, the charger comprising: a charging interface operably coupleable to a battery for the aerosol generating device; an air sensor configured to detect the contaminant; a controller operably coupled to the charging interface and the air sensor, detecting the contaminant using the air sensor; a controller configured to activate an air mover in response to detecting the contaminant.

2. the controller is operatively coupled to a communications interface for communicating with a mobile user device at least while the battery is coupled to the charging interface, the controller further comprising: establishing a connection with the mobile user device using the communications interface, the connection being configured to communicate user data; 2. The charger of claim 1, configured to: after establishing the connection with the mobile user device, associate a battery identifier with the mobile user device.

3. 3. The charger of claim 2, wherein the user data includes one or more of a username associated with the mobile user device, a mobile user device identifier, a maximum battery charge time, one or more battery identifiers associated with the mobile user device, cleaning data, calendar data, mobility data, multimedia data, user preference data, and social data.

4. The charger of claim 2 or 3, wherein the controller is further configured to establish the connection using a Bluetooth protocol.

5. The charger of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the controller is further configured to associate the battery identifier with the mobile user device based on user data communicated between the communications interface and the mobile user device.

6. The charger of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the controller is further configured to receive the battery identifier using the charging interface in response to coupling the battery to the charging interface.

7. The controller further comprises: transmitting the battery identifier to the mobile user device using the communications interface; and 7. The charger of claim 2, configured to, after transmitting the battery identifier to the mobile user device, receive a determination from the mobile user device that the battery identifier matches the mobile user device.

8. 8. The charger of claim 7, wherein the controller is further configured to transmit the battery identifier to any mobile user device connected to the controller to associate the battery with a particular mobile user device.

9. The controller further comprises: receiving from the mobile user device one or more battery identifiers associated with the mobile user device; A charger according to any one of claims 2 to 8, configured to determine whether the battery identifier matches one of the received one or more battery identifiers.

10. The charger of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the controller is further configured to disconnect from the mobile user device in response to determining that the battery identifiers do not match.

11. The charger of any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the controller is further configured to, in response to determining that the battery identifiers do not match, search for another mobile user device.

12. the charging interface comprises a screen, and the controller further comprises: generating visual elements based on user data from the mobile user device; A charger according to any one of claims 2 to 11, configured to display the visual elements on the screen.

13. A charger according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein the controller is operatively couplable to a wireless network for transmitting messages relating to charging of the battery to the mobile user device.

14. The controller further comprises: determining social data based on the user data from the mobile user device; A charger according to any one of claims 2 to 13, arranged to use the communications interface to share the social data with other mobile user devices with which it has an established connection.

15. 15. The charger of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the charger comprises a housing containing the charging interface, the housing further comprising a locking element, including a lockable compartment or a lockable mounting component, assignable to one or more users.

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