Methods, equipment, and systems for starting up a device before it is driven.

Abstract

The aerosol delivery device may include a rechargeable power source configured to provide power to generate the aerosol, device electronics configured to generate the aerosol in response to application of power from the power source, and a lock assembly configured to prevent charging of the power source and / or application of power from the power source to the device electronics in a locked state, and to allow charging of the power source and application of power from the power source to the device electronics in an unlocked state. The lock assembly may be configured to detect an activation event while the lock assembly is in the locked state, activate the lock assembly in response to the activation event, perform an authentication process, and transition the lock assembly between the locked state and the unlocked state in response to completion of the authentication process.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to the driving and control of an aerosol delivery device, such as an electronic nicotine delivery system ("ENDS"), and related device activation. The aerosol delivery device is controlled by drive-based communication to the device after the device has been activated from a power-saving mode or state. [Background technology]

[0002] Over the years, numerous devices have been proposed as improvements or alternatives to smoking products that require the combustion of tobacco for use. Some alternatives have involved devices in which a solid or liquid fuel is burned to transfer heat to the tobacco, or in which a chemical reaction is used to provide such a heat source. Additional alternatives, such as those described in Patent Document 1, incorporated herein by reference, use electrical energy to heat tobacco and / or other aerosol-generating substrate materials. Generally, devices that use electrical energy to heat tobacco or other substances are called aerosol delivery devices, and electronic nicotine delivery systems ("ENDS") devices are an example of such devices.

[0003] Many of these devices are said to provide a sensation associated with cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking, but are designed not to deliver a significant amount of the incomplete combustion and thermal decomposition products that result from burning tobacco. To this end, numerous alternative smoking products, flavor generators, and medical inhalers have been proposed that utilize electrical energy to evaporate or heat volatile materials, or that attempt to provide the sensation of cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking without burning tobacco to a significant extent. For example, see the various alternative smoking devices, aerosol delivery devices, and heat sources presented in the background art described in Patent Documents 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Also see, for example, the various implementations of products and heating configurations described in the background sections of Patent Documents 9 and 10, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 9,078,473: Worms et al. [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 8,881,737, Collet et al. [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0255702, Specification by Griffith Jr. et al. [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0000638, Specification, Sebastian et al. [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096781, Sears et al. [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096782, Specification by Ampolini et al. [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0059780, Specification by Davis et al. [Patent Document 8] U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 222,615, filed by Watson et al. on July 28, 2016. [Patent Document 9] U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594, Counts et al. [Patent Document 10] U.S. Patent No. 8,079,371, Robinson et al. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The smoking devices described above are subject to certain restrictions, including age restrictions. In some locations, the use of items, including ENDS device cartridges, may be restricted based on the user's age. To address the need for device authentication by age-verified users, one of several authentication methods may be employed. However, many of these authentication methods depend on the initiation of communication, resulting in power consumption of the ENDS device while waiting for authentication. Therefore, it is desirable to implement a method in which the authentication process begins after the device has been powered on. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This disclosure relates to the control of an aerosol delivery device, including an electronic nicotine delivery system ("ENDS") device. The ENDS or aerosol delivery device may operate in response to authentication after being activated from a low-power or sleep state by detection of an activation event upon unlocking. Authentication may primarily include age verification prior to authorization of device operation. Authentication may include control signal communication to the device. Control signal communication may include an audio signal, such as an authentication tone, detected by the device's microphone or pressure sensor. Control signal communication may include a visual, optical, or light signal detected by the device's optical sensor or photodiode. The audio or visual signal may be sent by a host device (e.g., a smartphone) based on a help desk call or from a retail location.

[0007] In one embodiment, an aerosol delivery device is provided. The aerosol delivery device may include a rechargeable power supply configured to provide power and generate an aerosol; device electronics configured to generate an aerosol in response to the application of power from the power supply; and a lock assembly configured to pre-form either or both of the following: to suppress charging of the power supply and / or the application of power from the power supply to the device electronics in a locked state, and to allow charging of the power supply and / or the application of power from the power supply to the device electronics in an unlocked state. The lock assembly may be configured to detect an activation event while the lock assembly is in a locked state, to activate the lock assembly in response to the activation event, to perform an authentication process, and to transition the lock assembly between a locked state and an unlocked state upon completion of the authentication process.

[0008] In another embodiment, a method may be provided for unlocking an aerosol delivery device from a low-power or sleep mode. This method may include detecting an activation event while the aerosol delivery device is in a locked state where charging or aerosol generation functions are not possible; activating the lock assembly of the aerosol delivery device from the low-power or sleep mode in response to the detection of the activation event; performing an authentication process through the lock assembly; and, upon completion of the authentication process, transitioning the lock assembly to an unlocked state in which charging and aerosol generation functions are possible.

[0009] In another embodiment, a system for driving a package component in a locked state may be provided. The system may include an aerosol delivery device and a package assembly including a package associated with the sale of the aerosol delivery device. The aerosol delivery device may include a rechargeable power supply configured to provide power to generate an aerosol, device electronics configured to generate an aerosol in response to the application of power from the power supply, and a locking assembly configured to suppress charging of the power supply and / or the application of power from the power supply to the device electronics in a locked state, and to allow charging of the power supply and the application of power from the power supply to the device electronics in an unlocked state. The locking assembly may be configured to perform activation, authentication, and unlocking of the aerosol delivery device. The locking assembly may also be configured to interact with or integrate with the package so that the activation of the aerosol delivery device is initiated by the removal of the package.

[0010] It will be recognized that this summary is presented solely for the purpose of summarizing several implementation examples to provide a basic understanding of certain aspects of this disclosure. Accordingly, it will be recognized that the implementation examples described above are merely examples and should not be interpreted as narrowing the scope and intent of this disclosure in any way. When interpreted in conjunction with the accompanying drawings illustrating the principles of the described implementation examples, other implementation examples, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description. The above provides a general overview of the disclosure methods, but the attached diagram, which does not necessarily represent a fixed ratio, is referenced below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This diagram shows a perspective view of an aerosol delivery device, including a coupled cartridge and a control body, according to one implementation example of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a partial cross-section of an aerosol delivery device in which the cartridge and control body are separated from each other, according to one example of an implementation configuration. [Figure 3] even up to [Figure 4] Fig. shows a perspective view of an aerosol delivery device including a control body and an aerosol source member that are coupled to each other and separable from each other according to another exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] even up to [Figure 6] Fig. shows a front view and a cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device of Figs. 3 and 4 according to an exemplary implementation. [Figure 7] even up to [Figure 8] Fig. shows a side view and a partially broken-away view of an aerosol delivery device including a cartridge coupled to a control body according to an exemplary implementation. [Figure 9] Fig. shows a circuit diagram of an aerosol delivery device according to various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] Fig. shows a circuit diagram of a signal conditioning circuit configuration according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Fig. shows a diagram of an example of a system for functional control of a device. [Figure 12] Fig. shows an exemplary implementation of a signal detector circuit configuration. [Figure 13] Fig. shows an exemplary implementation of a control signal. [Figure 14] Fig. shows an exemplary implementation of an audio detector. [Figure 15] Fig. shows an exemplary implementation of an optical detector. [Figure 16] Fig. shows an example of a system diagram for functional control of a device by an audio signal. [Figure 17] Fig. shows an example of a system diagram for functional control of a device by an optical signal. [Figure 18] Fig. is a flowchart showing an example of a control signal process according to an exemplary implementation. [Figure 19] Fig. is a flowchart showing an example of an audio signal process according to an exemplary implementation. [Figure 20] Fig. is a flowchart showing an example of authentication in a host device according to an exemplary implementation. [Figure 21] Fig. shows an example of an authentication key. [Figure 22]A high-level flow diagram is shown for starting and unlocking an aerosol delivery device according to one embodiment. [Figure 23] This shows a block diagram of various components of an aerosol delivery device that can be activated before unlocking in order to conserve power before authentication, according to one embodiment. [Figure 24] This shows a block diagram of various components involved in the startup of an aerosol delivery device according to one embodiment. [Figure 25] A flowchart illustrating the startup, authentication, and lock / unlock operations of an aerosol delivery device according to one embodiment is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The disclosure is described in more detail below with reference to examples of implementations. These examples of implementations are described in a manner that ensures the disclosure is thorough and complete, and will provide a detailed understanding of the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. In fact, the disclosure is embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the implementations presented herein, but rather these implementations are provided so that the disclosure may satisfy applicable legal requirements. Where used in the specification and appended claims, singular “a,” “an,” “the,” and others include plural references unless the context explicitly states otherwise. Furthermore, while quantitative measurements, values, geometric relationships, and other similarities are referred to herein, unless otherwise stated, one or more of these may be absolute or approximate to accommodate acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to engineering tolerances.

[0013] As described below, this disclosure relates to the requirement of authentication for age-restricted devices such as aerosol delivery devices or electronic nicotine delivery systems ("ENDS") devices. Authentication may include or require prior age verification so that the age-restricted device will not be able to operate for users who have not undergone age verification. Authentication may include an age-restricted device that receives control signals for authenticating the device. Control signals may include audio and / or visual / optical signals for authenticating the device.

[0014] Aerosol delivery devices or ENDS are examples of devices that may be associated with restrictions such as age restrictions. Other examples include delivery devices for the delivery of cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and / or cannabidiol (CBD), plants, drugs, and / or other active ingredients. Therefore, while aerosol delivery or ENDS devices are used as examples of application in all of the various embodiments, it will be recognized that this example is intended to be non-limiting, so that the progressive concepts disclosed herein may be used in devices other than aerosol delivery or ENDS devices, including aerosol delivery devices that may be used to deliver other medicinal effects and / or active ingredients to a user or that may include smokeless tobacco or other tobacco products.

[0015] Device authentication via control signals may be required in addition to or as a prerequisite for user age verification. Users who have not undergone age verification cannot authenticate the device. Periodic authentication may be necessary for the use of age-restricted products. An age verification system may be in place to confirm the user's age and / or to authenticate legitimate users and / or devices.

[0016] Functional control and certification are applicable to age-restricted devices or substances, including nicotine, cigarettes, alcohol, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), CBD oil, cannabis / marijuana, plants, medicinal properties, and / or other age-restricted products. Certification may be applicable to age-restricted devices other than aerosol delivery devices. Similarly, while age is one type of device restriction, other types of restrictions may be imposed on devices that are verified through device certification.

[0017] Aerosol delivery devices are an example of devices that may be subject to restrictions, and certification can be achieved by control signals to the device. Aerosol delivery devices are further described with respect to Figures 1 to 10. In other examples, the device may be a heated device that uses aerosol source components as consumables rather than cartridges. Aerosol delivery devices may be configured to generate aerosols (inhalable substances) from an aerosol precursor composition (sometimes called an inhalable substance medium). The aerosol precursor composition may include one or more of solid tobacco materials, semi-solid tobacco materials, or liquid aerosol precursor compositions. In some implementations, aerosol delivery devices may be configured to generate aerosols from a fluid aerosol precursor composition (e.g., a liquid aerosol precursor composition) by heating it. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol precursor composition may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the aforementioned substances, including, plant substances, drugs, alcohol, and glycerin; nicotine and / or plant components (e.g., lavender, peppermint, chamomile, basil, rosemary, thyme, eucalyptus, ginger, cannabis, ginseng, maca, and chisan tea); stimulants (e.g., caffeine and guarana); amino acids (e.g., taurine, theanine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan); and / or drugs, nutritional supplements, and medicinal components (e.g., vitamins such as B6, B12, and C); and other active ingredients including, but not limited to, cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Such aerosol delivery devices may include so-called electronic cigarettes. In other implementations, the aerosol delivery device may include heated devices. In other implementations, the aerosol delivery device may include non-heated devices.

[0018] Liquid aerosol precursor compositions, also called vapor precursor compositions or "E-liquids," are particularly useful for electronic cigarettes and non-heating devices. Liquid aerosol precursor compositions can contain a variety of components, including, for example, polyhydric alcohols (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof), nicotine, tobacco, tobacco extracts, and / or flavorings. In some examples, aerosol precursor compositions contain glycerin and nicotine. In other examples, the composition may additionally or alternatively include alcohol, plant components (e.g., lavender, peppermint, chamomile, basil, rosemary, thyme, eucalyptus, ginger, cannabis, ginseng, maca, chisan tea), stimulants (e.g., caffeine and guarana), amino acids (e.g., taurine, theanine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, tryptophan), drugs, nutritional supplements, medicinal components (e.g., vitamins such as B6, B12, and C, and cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)), or other active ingredients, or combinations thereof.

[0019] Several liquid aerosol precursor compositions, which can be used in conjunction with various implementation forms, may contain one or more acids, such as levulinic acid, succinic acid, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, benzoic acid, fumaric acid, combinations thereof, and others. Adding an acid to a nicotine-containing liquid aerosol precursor composition yields a protonated liquid aerosol precursor composition containing nicotine in salt form. Representative types of liquid aerosol precursor compositions and formulations are presented and characterized in U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 by Robinson et al., U.S. Patent No. 9,254,002 by Chong et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0008457 by Zheng et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0020823 by Lipowicz et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0020830 by Koller, along with International Publication No. 2014 / 172736 by Bowen et al. and U.S. Patent No. 8,881,737 by Collett et al., the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other aerosol precursors that may be employed include aerosol precursors incorporated into any of the representative products identified above. The preferred option is the so-called "smoke juices" for electronic cigarettes, which are commercially available from Johnson Creek Enterprises LLC.Further examples of aerosol precursor compositions include BLACK NOTE, COSMIC FOG, THE MILKMAN E-LIQUID, FIVE PAWNS, THE VAPOR CHEF, VAPE WILD, BOOSTED, THE STEAM FACTORY, MECH SAUCE, CASEY JONES MAINLINE RESERVE, MITTEN VAPORS, DR. CRIMMY'S V-LIQUID, SMILEY E LIQUID, and BEANTOWN VAPORS. It is sold under the trademark names VAPOR, CUTTWOOD, CYCLOPS VAPOR, SICBOY, GOOD LIFE VAPOR, TELEOS, PINUP VAPORS, SPACE JAM, MT. BAKER VAPOR, and JIMMY THE JUICE MAN. Forms of foam material are used in conjunction with aerosol precursors, for example, as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2012 / 0055494 by Hunt et al., which is incorporated herein by reference.Furthermore, the use of foaming materials is also recognized in, for example, U.S. Patent No. 4,639,368 by Niazi et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,178,878 by Wehling et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,223,264 by Wehling et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,974,590 by Pater et al., U.S. Patent No. 7,381,667 by Bergquist et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,424,541 by Crawford et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,627,828 by Strickland et al., U.S. Patent No. 9,307,787 by Sun et al., as well as U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010 / 0018539 by Brinkley et al., Johnson et al. This is described in PCT International Publication No. 97 / 06786 of al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0020] Typical types of substrates, reservoirs, or other components for supporting aerosol precursors are described in Newton's U.S. Patent No. 8,528,569, Chapman et al.'s U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261487, Davis et al.'s U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0059780, and Bless et al.'s U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, various capillary materials and the configuration and operation of these capillary materials in certain types of electronic cigarettes are presented in Sears et al.'s U.S. Patent No. 8,910,640, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0021] In other configurations, the aerosol delivery device may include a heating device configured to heat a solid aerosol precursor composition (e.g., extracted tobacco rods) or a semi-solid aerosol precursor composition (e.g., glycerin-filled tobacco paste). The aerosol precursor composition may include tobacco-containing beads, tobacco fragments, tobacco pulp, reconstituted tobacco material, or combinations thereof, and / or mixtures of other tobacco forms mixed with crushed tobacco, tobacco extract, spray-dried tobacco extract, or any inorganic material (such as calcium carbonate), any flavoring, and an aerosol-forming material to form a substantially solid or moldable (e.g., extrudeable) substrate. Representative types of solid and semi-solid aerosol precursor compositions and formulations are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,424,538 by Thomas et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,464,726 by Sebastian et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0083150 by Conner et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0157052 by Ademe et al., and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0000188 by Nordskog et al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Further representative types of solid and semi-solid aerosol precursor compositions and configurations are disclosed in GLO by British American Tobacco. TM NeoSticks for the product TM Aerosol source component consumables and IQOS by Philip Morris International Inc. TM HEETS for product use TM This includes items found in aerosol source component consumables.

[0022] In various implementations, the inhalable substance may specifically be tobacco components or tobacco-derived materials (i.e., materials that are naturally present in tobacco and can be directly isolated from tobacco or prepared by synthesis). For example, an aerosol precursor composition may include a tobacco extract or fraction thereof combined with an inert substance. An aerosol precursor composition may further include unburned tobacco or a composition containing unburned tobacco that releases an inhalable substance when heated to a temperature below its combustion temperature. In some implementations, an aerosol precursor composition may include tobacco condensate or fraction thereof (i.e., condensed components of smoke produced by the combustion of tobacco, leaving behind flavorings and possibly nicotine).

[0023] In other implementations, smokeless tobacco and other tobacco products may be examples of age-restricted products rather than aerosol delivery or ENDS devices. Representative commercially available smokeless tobacco products include Camel snus, Camel Orbs, Camel Strips, and Camel Sticks from RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company; Grizzly moist tobacco, Kodiak moist tobacco, Levi Garrett loose tobacco, and Taylor's Pride loose tobacco from American Snuff Company, LLC; Kayak moist snuff and Chattanooga Chew chewing tobacco from Swisher International, Inc.; and Pinkerton Tobacco Company. This may include Redman chewing tobacco by Co. LP, Copenhagen moist tobacco, Copenhagen pouches, Skoal Bandits, Skoal pouches, Red Seal long cut, Revel Mint Tobacco Packs by US Smokeless Tobacco Company, and Marlboro Snus and Taboka by Philip Morris USA.Typical types of snuff products, commonly known as "snus," can be manufactured in Europe, particularly Sweden, by or through companies such as Swedish Match AB, Fiedler & Lungren AB, Gustavus AB, Skandinavisk Tobakskompagni A / S, and Rocker Production AB. Traditionally, or currently available in the United States, snus products have been marketed by RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company under brand names such as Camel Snus Frost, Camel Snus Original, Camel Snus Spice, Camel Snus Mint, Camel Snus Mellow, Camel Snus Winterchill, and Camel Snus Robust. Smokeless tobacco products are packaged in tins, packs, or pots. Other product examples include nicotine tablets such as REVEL nicotine tablets (a product of RJ Reynolds Vapor) and tobacco-free nicotine pouch products such as Swedish Match and Zyn by LYFT.

[0024] The tobacco materials useful in this disclosure are diverse and may include, for example, yellow tobacco, barley tobacco, Oriental tobacco or Maryland tobacco, dark tobacco, dark fire tobacco, and Rustica tobacco, along with other rare or special tobaccos or blends thereof. The tobacco materials may also include so-called “blended” forms and processing forms, such as processed tobacco stems (e.g., cut rolls or cut puff stems), volume-expanded tobacco (e.g., puffed tobacco such as dry ice-expanded tobacco (DIET), preferably in the form of cut fillers), and recombined tobacco (e.g., recombined tobacco manufactured using paper-type or cast-sheet type processing). Various representative tobacco types, processed tobacco types, and blended tobacco types are listed under U.S. Patent No. 4,836,224 for Lawson et al., No. 4,924,888 for Perfetti et al., No. 5,056,537 for Brown et al., No. 5,159,942 for Brinkley et al., No. 5,220,930 for Gentry, No. 5,360,023 for Blankley et al., No. 6,701,936 for Shafer et al., No. 7,011,096 for Li et al., No. 7,017,585 for Li et al., and Lawson et al. Examples of tobacco compositions that may be useful for smoking devices, including those provided herein, are presented in U.S. Patent No. 7,025,066 of the same name by Perfetti et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0255965, PCT International Publication No. 02 / 37990 of Behrman, and in Bombick et al., Fund. Appl. Toxicol. 39, pp. 11-17 (1997), which are incorporated herein by reference. Further examples of tobacco compositions that may be useful for smoking devices, including those provided herein, are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 of Robinson et al., which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0025] Furthermore, the aerosol precursor composition may include an inert substrate having an inhalable substance or its precursor integrated therewith or attached thereto. For example, a liquid containing an inhalable substance may be coated onto, absorbed, or adsorbed onto an inert substrate so that the inhalable substance is released from the progressive article in a form that can be extracted through the application of positive or negative pressure upon application of heat. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may include a blend of flavor and aromatic tobacco in cut-filler form. In other embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may include reconstituted tobacco materials such as those described in U.S. Patents No. 4,807,809 by Pryor et al., No. 4,889,143 by Pryor et al., and No. 5,025,814 by Raker, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. For further information regarding suitable aerosol precursor compositions, please refer to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 916,834, filed March 9, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0026] Regardless of the type of aerosol precursor composition, an aerosol delivery device may include an aerosol generating component configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition. In the case of an electronic cigarette or heated device, for example, the aerosol generating component may be or include a heating element. In the case of a non-heated device, in some examples, the aerosol generating component may be or include a vibrating piezoelectric or pressure-magnetic mesh. In other words, there is no heating element for aerosol generation. In some embodiments, an aerosol delivery device may include a combination of elements that constitute an aerosol generating component, which may include both a heating element and additional elements, such as a vibrating aerosol generating component (e.g., vibrating piezoceramic and / or other piezoelectric or pressure-magnetic material) that cooperate to generate an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition.

[0027] An example of a suitable heating element is an induction heater. Such a heater typically comprises an induction transmitter and an induction receiver. The induction transmitter may include a coil configured to form an oscillating magnetic field (e.g., a magnetic field that changes periodically over time) when alternating current is passed through it. The induction receiver may be at least partially installed or housed within the induction transmitter and may include a conductive material (e.g., a ferromagnetic material or an aluminum-coated material). By passing alternating current through the induction transmitter, eddy currents may be generated in the induction receiver via induction. Eddy currents flowing through the resistance of the material defining the induction receiver can heat it by Joule heating (i.e., through the Joule effect). An induction receiver that can define an atomizer can be wirelessly heated to form an aerosol from an aerosol precursor composition placed in close proximity to the induction receiver. Various implementations of aerosol delivery devices equipped with induction heaters are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0127722 by Davis et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0202266 by Sur et al., U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 352,153 filed November 15, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 799,365 filed October 31, 2017 by Sebastian et al., and U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 836,086 by Sur, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0028] In other configurations, including those described in more detail herein, the heating element is a conductive heater, such as in the case of an electrical resistance heater. These heaters may be configured to generate heat when an electric current is passed through them. In various configurations, conductive heaters may be provided in a variety of forms, such as foil, foam, disc, helix, fiber, wire, film, thread, strip, ribbon, or cylindrical body. Such heaters often contain a metallic material and are configured to generate heat as a result of electrical resistance associated with the passage of electric current. Such resistance heaters are placed in close proximity to an aerosol precursor composition to heat it and generate an aerosol. A variety of conductive substrates that may be available in this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0255702 by Griffith et al., cited above.

[0029] In several implementations, an aerosol delivery device may include a control body and cartridge in the case of a so-called electronic cigarette or non-heated device, or a control body and aerosol source component in the case of a heated device. A cartridge is an example of a consumable part of the device, and references to cartridges may include other consumable parts. Other examples of aerosol source components may include a "stick" of tobacco, tobacco extract, aerosol forma, nicotine, and / or other active ingredients that can be used in a heated device. For example, GLO by British American Tobacco. TM NeoStick is a consumable part for the product. TM Aerosol source component and IQOS by Philip Morris International, Inc. TM HEETS are consumables for use with the product. TMAerosol source component. In either the case of an electronic cigarette or a heated device, the control body may be reusable, while the cartridge / aerosol source component may be configured to have a limited number of uses and / or to be disposable. Various mechanisms may connect the cartridge / aerosol source component to the control body, resulting in screw engagement, press-fit engagement, interlocking, sliding, magnetic engagement, and others.

[0030] The control body and the cartridge / aerosol source component may include separate housings or outer bodies which may be formed from one of several different materials. The housings may be formed from suitable materials that are structurally safe. In some examples, the housings may be made of metal or alloys such as stainless steel, aluminum, and others. Other suitable materials include various plastics (e.g., polycarbonate), metal plating on plastics, ceramics, and others.

[0031] The cartridge (i.e., the aerosol source component) may contain an aerosol precursor composition. To generate aerosols from the aerosol precursor composition, aerosol generating components (e.g., heating elements, piezoelectric / pressure-magnetic meshes) may be positioned across the control body and cartridge, or in contact with or in close proximity to the aerosol precursor composition in the control body where the aerosol source component may be located. The control body may include a rechargeable or replaceable power supply, thereby allowing the control body to be reused with multiple cartridges / aerosol source components.

[0032] The control body may also include means for driving the aerosol delivery device, such as push buttons, touch-sensitive surfaces, etc., for manual control of the device. Additionally or alternatively, the control body may include a flow sensor that detects when the aerosol delivery device is driven by the user inhaling the cartridge / aerosol source component. In some embodiments, the control body may include a heating element instead of a consumable or cartridge as in other embodiments.

[0033] In various implementations, the aerosol delivery devices according to this disclosure may have a variety of overall shapes, including, but not limited to, an overall shape that can be defined as substantially rod-shaped, substantially tubular, or substantially cylindrical. In the implementations shown and described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the aerosol delivery device has a substantially circular cross-section. However, other cross-sectional shapes (e.g., elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, etc.) are also included in this disclosure. Such language for describing the physical shape of an article can also be applied to individual components, including the control body and the cartridge / aerosol source member. In other implementations, the control body may take on a different handheld shape, such as a box shape.

[0034] In more specific implementations, it may be noted that either the control body or the cartridge / aerosol source component, or both, may be disposable or reusable. For example, the control body may have a power source such as a replaceable or rechargeable battery, an SSB, a thin-film SSB, a capacitor, a solar cell, a rechargeable supercapacitor, a lithium-ion or hybrid lithium-ion supercapacitor, and others. An example of a power source is the TKI-1550 rechargeable lithium-ion battery produced by Tadiran Batteries GmbH in Germany. In another implementation, a useful power source may be the N50-AAA CADNICA nickel-cadmium battery produced by Sanyo Electric Company, Ltd. in Japan. In yet another implementation, multiple such batteries, each providing 1.2 volts, may be connected in series. In some implementations, the power source is configured to provide an output voltage. The power source may power an aerosol generating component capable of generating aerosols from an aerosol precursor composition. As will be further discussed below, the power source may be connected to some type of charging technology, such as a charging accessory.

[0035] Examples of power sources are described in U.S. Patent No. 9,484,155 by Peckerar et al. and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0112191 by Sur et al., filed on 21 October 2015, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other examples of suitable power sources are presented in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0283855 by Hawes et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0014125 by Fernando et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0243410 by Nichols et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0313901 by Fernando et al., and U.S. Patent No. 9,439,454 by Fernando et al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Regarding flow sensors, typical current regulation components and other current control components, including various microcontrollers, sensors, and switches for aerosol delivery devices, are U.S. Patent No. 4,735,217 by Gerth et al., U.S. Patents No. 4,922,901, 4,947,874, and 4,947,875 by Brooks et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,372,148 by McCafferty et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,040,560 by Fleischhauer et al., U.S. Patent No. 7,040,314 by Nguyen et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,205,622 by Pan, U.S. Patent Publication No. 8,881,737 by Collet et al., and Ampolini et al. This is described in U.S. Patent No. 9,423,152 of (al.) (Fernando et al.), U.S. Patent No. 9,439,454 of (Fernando et al.), and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0257445 of (Henry et al.), all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0036] Further examples of components relating to electronic aerosol deliverables and disclosing materials or components that may be used in such articles include U.S. Patent No. 4,735,217 by Gerth et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,249,586 by Morgan et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,666,977 by Higgins et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,053,176 by Adams et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,164,287 by White, U.S. Patent No. 6,196,218 by Voge, and Felter et al. U.S. Patent No. 6,810,883 by al., U.S. Patent No. 6,854,461 by Nichols, U.S. Patent No. 7,832,410 by Hon, U.S. Patent No. 7,513,253 by Kobayashi, U.S. Patent No. 7,896,006 by Hamano, U.S. Patent No. 6,772,756 by Shayan, U.S. Patent No. 8,156,944 and 8,375,957 by Hon, U.S. Patent No. 8,794,231 by Thorens et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,851,083 by Oglesby et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,915,254 and 8,925,555 by Monsees et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,915,254 and 8,925,555 by De Piano et al. This includes U.S. Patent No. 9,220,302 of (al.), U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2006 / 0196518 and 2009 / 0188490 of Hon, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010 / 0024834 of Oglesby et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010 / 0307518 of Whang, International Publication No. 2010 / 091593 of Hon, and International Publication No. 2013 / 089551 of Foo, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0099877 of Worm et al. discloses capsules that may be included in an aerosol delivery device and fob configurations for an aerosol delivery device, which is incorporated herein by reference.The diverse materials disclosed in the above-mentioned documents are incorporated into the apparatus in various forms, and all of the above disclosures are incorporated herein by reference.

[0037] Other features, controllers, or components that may be incorporated into the aerosol delivery apparatus of this disclosure include U.S. Patent No. 5,967,148 by Harris et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,934,289 by Watkins et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,954,979 by Counts et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,040,560 by Fleischhauer et al., U.S. Patent No. 8,365,742 by Hon, U.S. Patent No. 8,402,976 by Fernando et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0016550 by Katase, U.S. Patent No. 8,689,804 by Fernando et al., and Tucker et al. This is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0192623 of (al.), U.S. Patent No. 9,427,022 of Leven et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0180553 of Kim et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0000638 of Sebastian et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261495 of Novak et al., and U.S. Patent No. 9,220,302 of DePiano et al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0038] In another embodiment, this disclosure may relate to a kit providing the various components described herein. For example, a kit may comprise a control body comprising one or more cartridges or aerosol source members. A kit may further comprise a control body comprising one or more cartridges and a charging accessory described below, together with one or more batteries. A kit may further comprise a plurality of cartridges and one or more batteries and / or charging accessories. In the above embodiments, the cartridge or control body may comprehensively comprise a heating member. An advanced kit may further comprise a housing (or other package, carrying or storage component) for housing one or more other kit components. Alternatively, the charging accessory may be one of the housings of the kit. The housing may be a reusable rigid or flexible container. Furthermore, the housing may simply be a box or other package structure.

[0039] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate the implementation configuration of an aerosol delivery device, including a control body and a cartridge, in the case of an electronic cigarette. In this regard, Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an aerosol delivery device 100 according to an example of the implementation configuration of this disclosure. As noted, the aerosol delivery device may include a control body 102 (i.e., the battery portion) and a cartridge 104. As described below, the operation of the device may require authentication, along with age verification, when the cartridge 104 is installed. The control body and cartridge may be functionally coupled permanently or detachably. In this regard, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the aerosol delivery device in a coupled configuration, while Figure 2 shows a partially broken side view of the aerosol delivery device in a separated configuration. The aerosol delivery device may be substantially rod-shaped, substantially tubular, or substantially cylindrical in some implementation configurations, for example, when the control body and cartridge are in an assembled configuration.

[0040] The control body 102 and the cartridge 104 may be configured to engage with each other by a variety of connections, such as press-fit (or crimp-fit), screw connections, magnetic connections, and others. For example, the control body may include a first engaging element (e.g., a coupler) adapted for engaging with a second engaging element (e.g., a connector) of the cartridge. The first and second engaging elements may be reversible. For example, one of the first and second engaging elements may be a male thread and the other a female thread. As a further example, one of the first and second engaging elements may be a magnet and the other a metal or a corresponding magnet. In certain configurations, the engaging elements may be directly defined by existing components of the control body and cartridge. For example, the housing of the control body may define a cavity at its end configured to accommodate at least a portion of the cartridge (e.g., a cartridge storage tank or other shell-forming element). In particular, the cartridge storage tank can be at least partially housed within the control body cavity, while the cartridge mouthpiece remains exposed to the outside of the control body cavity. The cartridge can be held within the cavity formed by the control body housing by a restraint fit (for example, through the use of a stopper and / or other feature that forms an interference fit between the outer surface of the cartridge and the inner surface of the wall forming the control body cavity), by magnetic engagement (for example, through a magnet and / or magnetic metal that is positioned within the control body cavity and on the cartridge), or by other suitable techniques.

[0041] As shown in the broken diagram illustrated in Figure 2, each of the control body 102 and cartridge 104 includes several such components. The components shown in Figure 2 are representative of the components that may be present in the control body and cartridge, and are not intended to limit the scope of components included by this disclosure. In one embodiment, the control body 102 may be called the battery portion. As shown in the figure, the control body 102 is formed from a housing 206 (sometimes called the control body shell) which may include, for example, a control component 208 (e.g., a processing circuit configuration), a flow sensor 210, a power supply 212 (e.g., a battery, a supercapacitor), and an indicator 214 (e.g., an LED, a quantum dot-based LED), and such components may be variably matched. The power supply is rechargeable, and the control component may include a switch and a processing circuit configuration coupled to the flow sensor and switch. The processing circuit configuration may be configured to deter access (locking) to the device depending on the authentication or age verification status. In one example, the device starts in a locked state in which use is deterred, but becomes usable when the device is authenticated upon receiving the appropriate control signal at the device. In other words, the device's default state is locked, and it is unlocked through authentication (along with age verification).

[0042] A cartridge 104 is formed from a housing 216 (sometimes called a cartridge shell) that includes a heating element 220 (aerosol generating component) surrounding a reservoir 218 configured to hold an aerosol precursor composition. In various configurations, this structure may be called a tank. Therefore, the terms “cartridge,” “tank,” and other terms may be used interchangeably to refer to the shell or other housing that includes a heating element surrounding a reservoir for the aerosol precursor composition.

[0043] As shown in the figure, in some examples, the reservoir 218 may be in fluid communication with a liquid transport element 222 adapted to transport or deliver the aerosol precursor composition stored in the reservoir housing to the heating element 220 by capillary action. In some examples, a valve may be placed between the reservoir and the heating element and configured to control the amount of aerosol precursor composition sent from the reservoir to the heating element.

[0044] Various material examples configured to generate heat when an electric current is applied can be used to form the heating element 220. These heating elements may be resistance heating elements such as wire coils, microheaters, and others. Examples of materials on which the heating element can be formed include Kanthal (FeCrAl), nichrome, nickel, stainless steel, indium tin oxide, tungsten, molybdenum disilicide (MoSi2), molybdenum silicide (MoSi), aluminum-doped molybdenum disilicide (Mo(Si,Al)2), titanium, platinum, silver, palladium, silver-palladium alloys, graphite and graphite-based materials (e.g., carbon-based foams and threads), conductive inks, boron-doped silica, and ceramics (e.g., ceramics with positive or negative temperature coefficients). The heating element may be a resistance heating element or a heating element configured to generate heat by induction. The heating element may be coated with thermally conductive ceramics such as aluminum nitride, silicon carbide, beryllium oxide, alumina, silicon nitride, or compounds thereof. Examples of useful heating element implementations for aerosol delivery devices according to this disclosure are further described below and may be incorporated into devices such as those described herein.

[0045] An opening 224 may be present in the housing 216 (for example, at the mouthpiece end) to allow the formed aerosol to be released from the cartridge 104.

[0046] The cartridge 104 may also include one or more electronic components 226, which may include integrated circuits, memory components (e.g., EEPROM, flash memory), sensors, and others. The electronic components may be adapted to communicate with the control component 208 and / or external devices by wired or wireless means. The electronic components may be located anywhere in the cartridge or its base 228.

[0047] Although the control component 208 and the flow sensor 210 are illustrated separately, it is understood that various electronic components, including the control component and the flow sensor, can be combined on a circuit board (e.g., a PCB) that supports and electrically connects these electronic components. Furthermore, the circuit board can be oriented horizontally with respect to the diagram in Figure 1, in that the circuit board may be parallel in the longitudinal direction with respect to the central axis of the control body. In some examples, the air flow sensor may comprise its own circuit board or other base element on which it can be mounted. In some examples, a flexible circuit board can be used. A flexible circuit board can consist of a variety of shapes, including substantial tubular shapes. In some examples, the flexible circuit board may be combined with, stacked on, or form part or all of a heater board.

[0048] The control body 102 and the cartridge 104 may include components adapted to facilitate fluid engagement between them. As illustrated in Figure 2, the control body may include a coupler 230 having a cavity 232 inside. The base 228 of the cartridge is adapted to engagement with the coupler and may include a projection 234 adapted to fitting into the cavity. Such engagement facilitates a stable connection between the control body and the cartridge and allows for the establishment of an electrical connection between the power supply 212 and control components 208 of the control body and the heating element 220 of the cartridge. Furthermore, the housing 206 includes an air intake 236, which is a notch in the housing where the housing is connected to the coupler, allowing air to pass around the coupler and into the housing, and the air proceeds through the cavity 232 of the coupler and through the projection 234 to the cartridge.

[0049] Useful couplers and bases provided herein are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261495 by Novak et al., incorporated herein by reference. For example, the coupler 230 shown in Figure 2 may define an outer periphery 238 configured to abut against an inner periphery 240 of a base 228. In one example, the inner periphery of the base may define a radius substantially equal to or slightly larger than the radius of the outer periphery of the coupler. Furthermore, the coupler may define one or more protrusions 242 on its outer periphery configured to engage with one or more recesses 244 defined on the inner periphery of the base. However, various other structures, shapes, and component examples may be employed to connect the base to the coupler. In some examples, the connection between the base of the cartridge 104 and the coupler of the control body 102 is substantially permanent, while in other examples, the connection may be disconnectable so that the control body can be reused, for example, with one or more disposable and / or refillable additional cartridges.

[0050] The reservoir 218 illustrated in Figure 2 may be a container or a fibrous reservoir as described herein. For example, in this example, the reservoir may contain one or more layers of nonwoven fibers substantially formed in the shape of a tube surrounding the inside of the housing 216. An aerosol precursor composition may be held in the reservoir. For example, liquid components may be adsorbed and held by the reservoir. The reservoir may be in a fluid connection with a liquid transport element 222. The liquid transport element can transport the aerosol precursor composition stored in the reservoir to a heating element 220, which in this example is in the form of a metal wire coil, via capillary action or via a micropump. Therefore, the heating element is in a heating configuration with the liquid transport element.

[0051] In some examples, a microfluidic chip is embedded in a reservoir 218, and the amount and / or mass of the aerosol precursor composition delivered from the reservoir can be controlled by a micropump, such as one based on microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. Other implementation examples of reservoirs and transport elements useful in aerosol delivery devices according to this disclosure are further described herein, and such reservoirs and / or transport elements can be incorporated into devices such as those described herein. In particular, certain combinations of heating members and transport elements, further described herein, can be incorporated into devices such as those described herein.

[0052] When the user inhales the aerosol delivery device 100 during use, the flow sensor 210 detects the airflow, and the heating element 220 is activated to evaporate the components of the aerosol precursor composition. When the user inhales the inlet end of the aerosol delivery device, air enters through the intake port 236 and passes through the cavity 232 of the coupler 230 and the central opening of the protrusion 234 of the base 228. In the cartridge 104, the inhaled air combines with the formed vapor to form an aerosol. The aerosol is agitated, sucked in, or drawn out from the heating element of the aerosol delivery device to the opening 224 at the inlet end.

[0053] For further details regarding the implementation of an aerosol delivery device including a control body and cartridge in an electronic cigarette case, please refer to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 836,086 of Sur, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 916,834 of Sur et al., filed on 9 March 2018, which are also incorporated herein by reference.

[0054] Figures 3 to 6 illustrate implementation configurations of an aerosol delivery device, including a control body and an aerosol source member, in the case of a heated device. More specifically, Figure 3 illustrates an aerosol delivery device 300 according to an example of an implementation configuration of this disclosure. The aerosol delivery device may include a control body 302 and an aerosol source member 304. In various implementation configurations, the aerosol source member and the control body can be functionally coupled permanently or detachably. In this regard, Figure 3 illustrates an aerosol delivery device in a coupled configuration, while Figure 4 illustrates an aerosol delivery device in a separated configuration.

[0055] As shown in Figure 4, in various implementations of this disclosure, the aerosol source member 304 may comprise a heated end 406 configured to be inserted into a control body and an inhalation end 408 that generates an aerosol when inhaled by the user. In various implementations, at least a portion of the heated end may contain the aerosol precursor composition 410.

[0056] In various configurations, the aerosol source member 304 or a portion thereof may be covered with an external covering material 412 which may be formed from any material useful for providing additional structures and / or supports for the aerosol source member. In various configurations, the external covering material may include a material that resists heat transfer, which may include paper or other fibrous materials such as cellulose. The external covering material may also include at least one type of filler material embedded or dispersed within the fibrous material. In various configurations, the filler material may be in the form of water-insoluble particles. Additionally, inorganic components may be incorporated into the filler material. In various configurations, the external coating may be formed in multiple layers, such as a bottom layer, a bulk layer, and an upper layer, like the typical wrapping paper of a cigarette. Such materials may include lightweight "boro fibers" such as flax, hemp, sisal, rice straw, and / or esparto. The external coating may also include materials commonly used in conventional cigarette filter elements, such as cellulose acetate.

[0057] Furthermore, the excess length of the coating at the suction end 408 of the aerosol source member may function to simply isolate the aerosol precursor composition 410 from the consumer's mouth, provide space for the placement of filter material as described below, affect the suction of articles, or affect the flow characteristics of vapor or aerosol discharged from the device during suction. Further consideration of the configurations for coating materials that may be used in this disclosure can be found in U.S. Patent No. 9,078,473 by Worm et al., cited above.

[0058] In various implementations, other components may be present between the aerosol precursor composition 410 and the mouthpiece end 408 of the aerosol source member 304, and the mouthpiece end may include a filter 414, which may be made of, for example, cellulose acetate or polypropylene. The filter may additionally or alternatively include a twisted fiber of a tobacco-containing material, such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 5,025,814 by Raker et al., which is incorporated herein by reference. In various implementations, the filter may enhance the structural integrity of the mouthpiece end of the aerosol source member and / or provide filtering performance if desired and / or provide resistance to inhalation. In some implementations, one or more of the following combinations may be placed between the aerosol precursor composition and the mouthpiece end: a void, a phase change material for cooling the air, a fragrance release medium, ion exchange fibers capable of selective chemiadsorption, aerogel particles as a filter medium, or other suitable material.

[0059] Various implementations of this disclosure employ one or more conductive heating elements to heat the aerosol precursor composition 410 of the aerosol source member 304. In various implementations, the heating elements can be provided in a variety of forms, such as foil, foam, mesh, hollow sphere, hemisphere, disc, helix, fiber, wire, film, thread, flake, ribbon, or cylindrical. Such heating elements usually enclose a metallic material and are configured to generate heat as a result of electrical resistance associated with the passage of electric current. Such resistive heating elements may be positioned in direct contact with, or in close proximity to, the aerosol source member, particularly the aerosol precursor composition of the aerosol source member. The heating elements may be disposed on the control body and / or the aerosol source member. In various implementations, the aerosol precursor composition may include components (i.e., heat-conducting components) embedded in or part of a substrate portion that can act as a heating assembly or facilitate its function. Several examples of various heating components and elements are described in U.S. Patent No. 9,078,473 by Worm et al.

[0060] Some non-limiting examples of various heating element configurations include configurations in which the heating element is placed in close proximity to the aerosol source member 304. For example, in some examples, at least a portion of the heating element may surround at least a portion of the aerosol source member. In other examples, one or more heating elements may be positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the aerosol source member when it is inserted into the control body 302. In other examples, when the aerosol source member is inserted into the control body, at least a portion of the heating element may penetrate at least a portion of the aerosol source member (e.g., one or more protrusions and / or spikes penetrating the aerosol source member). In some examples, the aerosol precursor composition may include a plurality of beads or particles that are in contact with the aerosol precursor composition, or are embedded therein or as part of it and act as a heating element or can enhance its function.

[0061] Figure 5 shows a front view of an aerosol delivery device 300 according to an example of an implementation of the present disclosure, and Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device of Figure 5. In particular, the control body 302 of the depicted implementation may comprise a housing 516 including an opening 518 defined at its engaging end, a flow sensor 520 (e.g., a breath sensor or pressure switch), a control component 522 (e.g., a processing circuit configuration), a power supply 524 (e.g., a battery, supercapacitor), and an end cap including an indicator 526 (e.g., an LED). The power supply is rechargeable, and the control component may include a switch and a processing circuit configuration coupled to the flow sensor and the switch. The processing circuit configuration may be configured to suppress operation by the switch if age verification fails, as will be further discussed below. The default state of the device is with the switch unconnected, and the switch is connected upon authentication (which may be based on verification).

[0062] In one implementation configuration, the indicator 526 may include one or more LEDs, quantum dot-based LEDs, and others. When the indicator is in communication with the control component 522 and coupled to the control body 302, it may light up when the user inhales the aerosol source member 304 as detected by the flow sensor 520.

[0063] The control body 302 in the depicted implementation includes one or more heating assemblies 528 (collectively referred to as heating assemblies, individually or collectively) configured to heat the aerosol precursor composition 410 of the aerosol source member 304. While heating assemblies in the various implementations of this disclosure can take on a variety of forms, in the specific implementations depicted in Figures 5 and 6, the heating assembly comprises an outer cylindrical body 530 and a heating element 532 (aerosol generating component), in which the heating element comprises a plurality of heater protrusions extending from a housing base 534 (in various configurations, the heating assembly, and more specifically the heater protrusions, may be referred to as heaters). In the depicted implementations, the outer cylindrical body comprises a double-walled vacuum tube constructed of stainless steel to retain the heat generated by the heater protrusions within the outer cylindrical body, and more specifically, the heat generated by the heater protrusions within the aerosol precursor composition. In various implementation configurations, the heater protrusions may be constructed from one or more conductive materials, including but not limited to copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, or combinations thereof.

[0064] As illustrated, the heating assembly 528 may be configured to extend proximal to the engaging end of the housing 516 and substantially surround a portion of the heating end 406 of the aerosol source member 304 containing the aerosol precursor composition 410. In this way, the heating assembly may define a generally tubular configuration. As illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the heating elements 532 (e.g., multiple heater protrusions) are surrounded by the outer cylindrical body 530 to form a housing chamber 536. Thus, in various implementations, the outer cylindrical body may contain non-conductive insulating materials and / or structures, including but not limited to insulating polymers (e.g., plastic or cellulose), glass, rubber, ceramics, porcelain, double-walled vacuum structures, or combinations thereof.

[0065] In some implementations, one or more parts or components of the heating assembly 528 may be combined with, packaged with, and / or integrated with (e.g., embedded in) the aerosol precursor composition 410. For example, in some implementations, the aerosol precursor composition may include one or more conductive materials formed and mixed from the materials described above. In some of these implementations, contacts may be directly connected to the aerosol precursor composition so that the contacts are electrically connected to an electrical energy source when the aerosol source member is inserted into the housing chamber of the control body. Alternatively, the contacts may be integrated with the electrical energy source and extend into the housing chamber so that the contacts make an electrical connection with the aerosol precursor composition when the aerosol source member is inserted into the housing chamber of the control body. Since conductive materials are present in the aerosol precursor composition, applying power from the electrical energy source to the aerosol precursor composition can cause an electric current to flow, generating heat from the conductive materials. Therefore, in some implementations, the heating element may be described as being integrated with the aerosol precursor composition. As a non-limiting example, graphite or other suitable conductive material may be mixed with, embedded in, or present directly above or within the material forming the aerosol precursor composition to integrate the heating element with the medium.

[0066] As described above, in the illustrated mounting configuration, the outer cylindrical body 530 may also act to facilitate the proper placement of the aerosol source member 304 when the aerosol source member is inserted into the housing 516. In various mounting configurations, the outer cylindrical body of the heating assembly 528 may engage with the inner surface of the housing to align the heating assembly with the housing. As a result of the fixed coupling between the heating assemblies, the longitudinal axis of the heating assembly may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing. In particular, the support cylindrical body may extend from the opening 518 of the housing to the housing base 534 to form the housing chamber 536.

[0067] The heated end 406 of the aerosol source member 304 has a size and shape for insertion into the control body 302. In various mounting configurations, the housing chamber 536 of the control body is characterized by being defined by a wall having an inner surface and an outer surface, the inner surface defining the internal space of the housing chamber. For example, in the illustrated mounting configuration, the outer cylinder 530 defines the inner surface that defines the internal space of the housing chamber. In the illustrated mounting configuration, the inner diameter of the outer cylinder is slightly larger than or approximately equal to the outer diameter of the corresponding aerosol source member (e.g., forming a slip fit) so that the outer cylinder has a configuration that guides the aerosol source member to a suitable position (e.g., left-right position) relative to the control body. Therefore, the maximum outer diameter of the aerosol source member (or other dimensions depending on the specific cross-sectional shape of this mounting configuration) may be smaller than the inner diameter (or other dimensions) of the inner surface of the wall at the open end of the housing chamber of the control body. In some implementations, the difference in diameter is small enough so that the aerosol source member fits snugly into the containment chamber and frictional force prevents its movement without the application of force. On the other hand, this difference may be sufficient for the aerosol source member to slide into or out of the containment chamber without requiring excessive force.

[0068] In the illustrated implementation configuration, the control body 302 is configured such that when the aerosol source member 304 is inserted into the control body, the heating element 532 (e.g., a heater protrusion) is positioned approximately at the radial center of at least a portion of the aerosol precursor composition 410 at the heated end 406 of the aerosol source member. In this way, when used in conjunction with a solid or semi-solid aerosol precursor composition, the heater protrusion can be in direct contact with the aerosol precursor composition. In other implementation configurations, such as when used in conjunction with an extruded aerosol precursor composition defining a tube structure, the heater protrusion is positioned inside a cavity defined by the inner surface of the extruded tube structure and does not come into contact with the inner surface of the extruded tube structure.

[0069] During use, the consumer initiates heating of the heating assembly 528, particularly the heating element 532 adjacent to the aerosol precursor composition 410 (or a specific layer thereof). Heating the aerosol precursor composition releases the inhalable material within the aerosol source member 304 so that an inhalable material is obtained. When the consumer inhales through the intake end 408 of the aerosol source member, air is drawn into the aerosol source member through an intake port 538, such as an opening or hole in the control body 302. As the drawn-in material exits the intake end of the aerosol source member, the combination of the drawn-in air and the released inhalable material is inhaled by the consumer. In some implementations, the consumer may manually activate a push button or similar component that causes the heating element of the heating assembly to receive electrical energy from a battery or other energy source in order to initiate heating. The electrical energy may be supplied for a predetermined duration or may be manually controlled.

[0070] In some implementations, the device 300 may allow energy flow to proceed to maintain a reference temperature higher than the ambient temperature—for example, a temperature that facilitates rapid heating to the active heating temperature—but substantially no electrical energy flow occurs during exhalation. However, in the implementations described, heating is initiated by the consumer's exhalation through the use of one or more sensors, such as a flow sensor 520. When exhalation is interrupted, heating is stopped or suppressed. When the consumer has exhaled a sufficient number of times to release a sufficient amount of inhalable material (for example, enough to be equivalent to a typical smoking experience), the aerosol source member 304 may be detached from the control body 302 and discarded. In some implementations, further sensing elements, such as volume sensing elements and other sensors, may be used, as discussed in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 707,461 by Philips et al., incorporated herein by reference.

[0071] In various implementations, the aerosol source member 304 may be formed from some material suitable for forming and maintaining an appropriate three-dimensional structure, such as a tubular shape, and for holding the aerosol precursor composition 410. In some implementations, the aerosol source member may be formed from a single wall or, in other implementations, from multiple walls, and may be formed from a heat-resistant (natural or synthetic) material that maintains structural integrity—for example, does not degrade—at a temperature that is at least the heating temperature provided by an electric heating element, as will be further discussed herein. In some implementations, heat-resistant polymers may be used, while in other implementations, the aerosol source member may be formed from paper, such as paper, that is substantially straw-shaped. As will be further discussed herein, the aerosol source member may have one or more associated layers that function to substantially inhibit the movement of vapor therein. In one implementation example, layers of aluminum foil may be stacked on one surface of the aerosol source member. Ceramic materials may also be used. In further implementations, insulating materials may be used to prevent unnecessary heat transfer from the aerosol precursor composition. Further examples of types of components and materials that may be used to provide the functions described above, or that may be used as alternatives to the materials and components described above, are of the types presented in Crooks et al. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 00186757, Crooks et al. No. 2010 / 00186757, and Sebastian et al. No. 2011 / 0041861, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0072] In the illustrated implementation, control body 302 includes control component 522 that controls various functions of aerosol delivery device 300, including providing power to electric heating element 532. For example, the control component may include a processing circuit configuration that is connected to power source 524 by a conductive wire (not shown) (and may be connected to additional components as further described herein). In various implementations, the processing circuit configuration may control when and how heating assembly 528, particularly the heater projections, receive electrical energy to heat aerosol precursor composition 410 to emit an inhalable substance for consumer inhalation. In some implementations, such control may be driven by flow sensor 520 as described in more detail above.

[0073] As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the heating assembly 528 of the illustrated implementation includes an outer cylindrical body 530 and a heating element 532 (e.g., a plurality of heater projections) extending from a receiving base 534. In some implementations where the aerosol precursor composition 410 includes a tubular structure, the heater projections may be configured to extend into a cavity defined by the inner surface of the aerosol precursor composition. In other implementations, such as the illustrated implementation where the aerosol precursor composition includes a solid or semi-solid, the plurality of heater projections are configured to penetrate into the aerosol precursor composition stored at the heating end 406 of the aerosol source member when the aerosol source member 304 is inserted into the control body 302. In such implementations, one or more of the components of the heating assembly, including the heater projections and / or the receiving base, may be constructed of a non-stick or anti-stick material, such as certain types of aluminum, copper, stainless steel, carbon steel, and ceramic materials. In other implementations, one or more of the components of the heating assembly, including the heater projections and / or the receiving base, may be coated with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating such as Teflon (registered trademark), or other coatings such as an anti-stick enamel coating, or Greblon (registered trademark) or Thermolon TMCeramic coatings such as Grebron® or Thermolon TM This may include ceramic coatings such as those mentioned above.

[0074] In addition, while the depicted configuration features numerous heater protrusions 532 distributed substantially evenly around the housing base 534, it should be noted that other configurations may use any number of heater protrusions, including a few, such as one, with other suitable spatial configurations. Furthermore, the length of the heater protrusions can vary in various configurations. For example, in some configurations, the heater protrusions may encompass small projections, while in other configurations, the heater protrusions may extend to a portion of the length of the housing chamber 536, including approximately 25%, 50%, 75%, and almost the entire length of the housing chamber 536. Also, in other configurations, the heating assembly 528 may have other configurations. Other heater configurations suitable for use in the present invention, based on the considerations listed above, include U.S. Patent No. 5,060,671 by Counts et al., No. 5,093,894 by Deevi et al., No. 5,224,498 by Deevi et al., No. 5,228,460 by Sprinkel Jr. et al., No. 5,322,075 by Deevi et al., No. 5,353,813 by Deevi et al., No. 5,468,936 by Deevi et al., No. 5,498,850 by Das, No. 5,659,656 by Das et al. Seen in (al.) No. 5,498,855, Hajaligol No. 5,530,225, Hajaligol No. 5,665,262, Das et al. No. 5,573,692, and Fleischhauer et al. No. 5,591,368, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0075] In various implementations, the control body 302 may include an air intake 538 (e.g., one or more openings or holes) to allow air to flow into the containment chamber 536. Thus, in some implementations, the containment base 534 may also include an air intake. Therefore, in some implementations, when a consumer inhales the intake end of the aerosol source member 304, air is drawn in from the air intake of the control body and the containment base into the containment chamber, passes through the aerosol source member, and is drawn in from the aerosol precursor composition 410 of the aerosol source member for inhalation by the consumer. In some implementations, the inhaled air passes through an optional filter 414 and carries the inhalable substance out through the opening of the intake end 408 of the aerosol source member. A heating element 532 located inside the aerosol precursor composition drives heater protrusions to heat the aerosol precursor composition and release the inhalable substance from the aerosol source member.

[0076] As described above with particular reference to Figures 5 and 6, various implementations of this disclosure employ a conductive heater to heat the aerosol precursor composition 410. As also noted above, various other implementations employ an induction heater to heat the aerosol precursor composition. In some of these implementations, the heating assembly 528 may be configured as an induction heater comprising a transformer with an induction transmitter and an induction receiver. In implementations where the heating assembly is configured as an induction heater, the outer cylindrical body 530 may be configured as an induction transmitter, and the heating elements 532 (e.g., multiple heater protrusions) extending from the housing base 534 may be configured as induction receivers. In various implementations, one or both of the induction transmitter and induction receiver may be disposed in the control body 302 and / or the aerosol source member 304.

[0077] In various mounting configurations, the outer cylindrical body 530 and the heating elements 532, which serve as inductive transmitters and inductive receivers, are constructed from one or more dielectric materials. In further mounting configurations, the inductive receivers may be constructed from ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, cobalt, iron, nickel, and combinations thereof. In one example mounting configuration, the foil material is constructed from a conductive material, and the heater protrusions are constructed from a ferromagnetic material. In various mounting configurations, the housing base may be constructed from a non-conductive and / or insulating material.

[0078] The outer cylindrical body 530, as an inductive power transmitter, may include a laminate of foil material surrounding the support cylinder. In some mounting configurations, the foil material may include printed electrical traces, such as one or more electrical traces that can form a helical coil pattern when the foil material is arranged around the heating element 532 as an inductive power receiver in some mounting configurations. Each of the foil material and the support cylinder may define a tubular configuration. The support cylinder may have a configuration that supports the foil material so that a short circuit does not occur due to the foil material coming into contact with the heater protrusions. In this way, the support cylinder may include a non-conductive material that is substantially transparent to the oscillating magnetic field generated by the foil material. In various mounting configurations, the foil material may be embedded in or coupled to the support cylinder. In the illustrated mounting configuration, the foil material engages with the outer surface of the support cylinder. However, in other mounting configurations, the foil material may be located on the inner surface of the support cylinder or completely embedded in the support cylinder.

[0079] The foil material of the outer cylindrical body 530 may be configured to form an oscillating magnetic field (e.g., a magnetic field that changes periodically over time) when alternating current is passed through it. The heater protrusions of the heating element 532 are at least partially disposed or housed in the outer cylindrical body and may include a conductive material. By passing alternating current through the foil material, eddy currents may be generated in the heater protrusions via induction. Eddy currents flowing through the resistance of the material defining the heater protrusions may heat them by Joule heating (i.e., through the Joule effect). The heater protrusions are heated wirelessly and form an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition 410 placed in close proximity to the heater protrusions.

[0080] Other configurations of the aerosol delivery device, control body, and aerosol source member are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 916,834 by Sue et al., U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 916,696 by Sur, and U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 836,086 by Sur, cited above.

[0081] Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the implementation configuration of an aerosol delivery device including a control body and a cartridge in the case of a non-heated device. In this regard, Figure 7 shows a side view of an aerosol delivery device 700 including a control body 702 and a cartridge 704, according to various implementation examples of the present disclosure. In particular, Figure 7 illustrates the control body and cartridge coupled to each other. The control body and cartridge can be functionally coupled and detachably connected.

[0082] Figure 8 illustrates in more detail an aerosol delivery device 700 in several implementation examples. As can be seen in the broken diagrams shown herein, the aerosol delivery device may also comprise a control body 702 and a cartridge 704, each containing several such components. The components shown in Figure 8 are representative of components that may be present in the control body and cartridge, and are not intended to limit the scope of components included in this disclosure. As shown in the figure, the control body may be formed from a control body housing or shell 806 that includes, for example, a control component 808 (e.g., a processing circuit configuration), an input device 810, a power supply 812, and an indicator 814 (e.g., an LED, a quantum dot-based LED), and such components may be variably matched. Here, a specific example of a suitable control component is the Microchip Technology PIC16(L)F1713 / 6 microcontroller described in Microchip Technology, Inc. AN2265, Reference Design for Vibrating Mesh Nebulizer (2016), which is incorporated by reference.

[0083] The cartridge 704 may be formed from a housing—sometimes called a cartridge shell 816—which includes a nozzle 820 having a piezoelectric / pressure-magnetic mesh (aerosol generating component) surrounding a reservoir 818 configured to hold an aerosol precursor composition. As described above, in various configurations, this structure may be called a tank.

[0084] The reservoir 818 illustrated in Figure 8 may be a container or a fibrous reservoir as described herein. The reservoir may be in fluid communication with the nozzle 820 for transporting the aerosol precursor composition stored in the reservoir housing to the nozzle. An opening 822 may be present in the cartridge shell 816 (e.g., at the mouthpiece end) to allow the release of the formed aerosol from the cartridge 704.

[0085] In some examples, a transport element may be positioned between a reservoir 818 and a nozzle 820 and configured to control the amount of aerosol precursor composition sent or delivered from the reservoir to the nozzle. In some examples, a microfluidic chip may be embedded in a cartridge 704, and the amount and / or mass of the aerosol precursor composition delivered from the reservoir may be controlled by one or more microfluidic components. An example of a microfluidic component is a micropump 824, such as one based on microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. Suitable examples of micropumps include the MDP2205 model micropump and other micropumps from thinXXS Microtechnology AG, the mp5 and mp6 model micropumps and other micropumps from Bartels Microtechnik GmbH, and the piezoelectric micropump from Takasago Fluidic Systems.

[0086] As illustrated, in some examples, the microfilter 826 may be positioned between the micropump 824 and the nozzle 820 to filter the aerosol precursor composition delivered to the nozzle. Like the micropump, the microfilter is a microfluidic component. Suitable examples of microfilters include flow-through microfilters manufactured using lab-on-a-chip (LOC) technology.

[0087] When the input device 810 detects user input to drive the aerosol delivery device during use, the piezoelectric / pressure-magnetic mesh is driven to vibrate, thereby drawing the aerosol precursor composition through the mesh. In this way, droplets of the aerosol precursor composition are formed, which combine with air to form an aerosol. The aerosol is agitated and drawn or drawn out from the mesh to the opening 822 at the suction end of the aerosol delivery device.

[0088] An input device 810, such as a switch, sensor, or detector, for controlling the power supply to the piezoelectric / pressure-magnetic mesh of the nozzle 820 when aerosol generation is desired (for example, during suction in use), may be incorporated into the aerosol delivery device 700. Thus, a method or procedure is provided for, for example, to turn off power to the mesh when suction is not occurring in the aerosol delivery device during use, and to turn on power to activate and start the aerosol generation and discharge from the nozzle during suction. Additional and representative types of detection or sensing mechanisms, their structure and configuration, their components, and their general operating methods are described above and in U.S. Patent No. 5,261,424 by Sprinkel, Jr., U.S. Patent No. 5,372,148 by McCafferty et al., and PCT International Publication No. 2010 / 003480 by Flick, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0089] For further information regarding the above and other implementations of aerosol delivery devices in the case of non-heated devices, please refer to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 651,548, filed July 17, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0090] As described above, the aerosol delivery devices in the implementation examples may include various electronic components, whether as an electronic cigarette, a heated device, or a non-heated device, or as a device that includes one or more of the functions of an electronic cigarette, a heated device, or a non-heated device. Figure 9 shows a circuit diagram of an aerosol delivery device 900 which may be one or more of the aerosol delivery devices 100, 300, and 700 in the various implementation examples of this disclosure, or which may incorporate their functions.

[0091] As shown in Figure 9, the aerosol delivery device 900 includes a control body 902 which comprises a power supply 904 and a control component 906 that may correspond to or include the functions of one of the control bodies 102, 302, 702, power supplies 212, 524, 812, and control components 208, 522, 808. The aerosol delivery device also includes an aerosol generating component 916 which may correspond to or include the functions of a piezoelectric / pressure-magnetic mesh of a heating element 220, 532 or a nozzle 820. The control body 902 may include a terminal 918 configured to connect the aerosol generating component 916 or the aerosol generating component to the control body.

[0092] In several implementations, the control body 902 includes a sensor 908 configured to indicate measured airflow. Sensor 908 may correspond to or include the functionality of a flow sensor 210, 520 or an input device 810. In these implementations, the control component 906 includes a switch 910 coupled to a power supply 904 and an aerosol generation component 916. The control component also includes a processing circuit configuration 912 coupled to the sensor and the switch. The switch may be a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) switch. The sensor may be connected to the inter-integrated circuit (I2C), Vcc, and / or ground terminals of the processing circuit configuration.

[0093] Sensor 908 may further include an audio detector 1402 or an optical detector 1502, as illustrated and described in relation to Figures 11-15. Sensor 908 may detect a control signal used for authentication. During authentication, switch 910 may be activated to allow the device to operate. In some implementations, processing circuit configuration 912 is configured to process the control signal and determine whether it matches a valid signal stored on a memory chip. In other embodiments, processing circuit configuration 912 may be configured to authenticate and / or verify the user's age and output a signal (indicated by arrow 922) that switches 910 to switchably connect and disconnect the output voltage from power supply 904 to the aerosol generating component 916, thereby powering the aerosol generating component over the aerosol generation time or based on use (e.g., cartridge insertion, device charging, etc.). In some implementations, processing circuit configuration 912 is configured to output a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal. The duty cycle of the PWM signal is adjustable by the switch to switchably connect and disconnect the output voltage to the aerosol generating component. The processing circuit configuration 912 may include the signal detector circuit configuration 1202 described with respect to Figure 12.

[0094] In some implementations, the control component 906 further includes a signal conditioning circuit configuration 914 coupled to the sensor 908 and the processing circuit configuration 912. In such implementations, the signal conditioning circuit configuration may be configured to operate the switch 910. A signal conditioning circuit configuration is described in detail below with reference to Figure 10.

[0095] Although not shown, processing circuit configuration 912 and / or signal adjustment circuit configuration 914 may be coupled to or receive a control signal used for authentication or verification. The control signal may be received by sensor 908. If the control signal is received and is valid, processing circuit configuration 912 turns on switch 910 to allow the aerosol delivery device to operate. Alternatively or additionally, if the verification signal is not received or is invalid, processing circuit configuration 912 shuts off switch 910 to suppress the operation of the aerosol delivery device 900. Switch 910 may be controlled by processing circuit configuration 912, including based on control signal detection by sensor 908. The control signal from sensor 908 may be analyzed by processing circuit configuration 912. An age verification and authentication process may be used to determine when the connection was made. If the user is not verified or authenticated, the switch is turned off to suppress the supply of voltage to the aerosol generating component. Alternatively, if the switch is in the off state and the user is not verified or authenticated, the switch remains in the off state. Similarly, once the user is verified or authenticated, connections may be established to allow current to flow for the use of the device. In other words, once the user is verified or authenticated, it is permissible for an output voltage to be supplied to the aerosol generating component.

[0096] Figure 10 shows a circuit diagram of a signal conditioning circuit configuration 1000 that can correspond to the signal conditioning circuit configuration 914 according to an example of implementation of this disclosure. As shown in the figure, in several implementations, the signal conditioning circuit configuration 1000 includes a signal conditioning chip 1001 and a bidirectional voltage level converter 1002. An example of a suitable signal conditioning chip is the ZAP3456 model from Zap-Tech Corporation. An example of a suitable bidirectional voltage level converter is the NVT2003 model bidirectional voltage level converter from NXP Semiconductors.

[0097] In one example, as shown in Figure 10, the signal conditioning chip 1001 may be connected to a bidirectional voltage level converter 1002, which may be connected to the 5V input and ground terminals of the processing circuit configuration 912. Note that the values ​​shown in Figure 10 (e.g., voltage, resistance, capacitance) are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting to this disclosure unless otherwise stated.

[0098] Figure 11 shows an example system diagram for the functional control of the device. Figure 11 illustrates how device 1106 communicates with age verification system 1102 via network 1103 and host device 1104 to verify the user's age, which can also be used to periodically authenticate device 1106. Age verification system 1102 is connected to host device 1104 via network 1103. Although not shown, age verification system 1102 can also be connected to device 1106 via network 1103.

[0099] Apparatus 1106 may be any aerosol delivery device, for example, an electronic nicotine delivery system ("ENDS") device according to the various embodiments described above. In one embodiment, apparatus 1106 may be or include a charging accessory, such as the accessory described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 415,460, entitled “Authentication and Age Verification for an Aerosol Delivery Device,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 282,222 filed April 2, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Examples of other chargers or charging accessories that can be used in combination with various embodiments are further described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0089180 of Rajesh Sur, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0224268 of Henry et al., and U.S. Patent No. 10,206,431 of Sur et al., each incorporated herein by reference.

[0100] As described, the age verification system 1102 may not only verify age (for example, for age-restricted products) but also provide authentication or user identification (for example, for actual purchase or theft prevention). The authentication and age verification by the age verification system 1102 are further described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 415,460, entitled “Authentication and Age Verification for an Aerosol Delivery Device,” claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 282,222 filed April 2, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. The authentication described below relies on an initial age verification and may be referenced for subsequent authentication using the control signal 1105 sent to device 1106. However, other verification mechanisms besides age may be provided. For example, in some embodiments, user identification may be performed instead of age verification. As described in U.S. Patent No. 16,415,444, filed May 17, 2019, “AGE VERIFICATION WITH REGISTERED CARTRIDGES FOR AN AEROSOL DELIVERY DEICE,” the entire disclosure is incorporated herein by reference, cartridges or consumables may be registered as part of an age verification or authentication process. U.S. Patent No. 8,689,804 by Fernando et al. discloses an identification system for smoking devices, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0101] The age verification system 1102 may include a database that not only tracks users along with their age but also stores records of devices and components (e.g., cartridges) along with their authorization. This database may use encrypted and / or anonymous identifiers (e.g., numeric, letter, or alphanumeric identifiers) for each user.

[0102] An initial age verification is performed and stored in the age verification system 1102 and / or can be stored in a database so that it is accessible via the network 1103. In some embodiments, the age verification record may be stored using blockchain technology. Subsequent age verification requests by this user can be confirmed by calling the database. Specifically, once a user is initially verified for age in the age verification system database, subsequent verifications (i.e., "authentication") only require calling this database to unlock the device 1106. In other words, the user performs an initial age verification, and subsequent use only requires authentication that does not include all of the initial age verification requirements. The frequency at which the device 1106 must be unlocked or authenticated may vary. Similarly, the timing at which a user needs to re-verify their age may also vary. For example, each time the cartridge is replaced, the user may need to re-verify or re-authenticate. In some embodiments, re-authentication may be required after a certain number of breaths from the device 1106 or based on the passage of time (e.g., once an hour, once a day, once a week, once a month, etc.). The online database tracks authentication requests and sets limits for each user. This can deter potential misconduct, such as one user unlocking another minor user's device. This would also deter the redistribution of unlocked (i.e., verified and authenticated) devices and / or accessories. Reasonable limits on the number of devices, chargers, consumables, and / or authentications can deter this potential misconduct.

[0103] As shown in Figure 20, a user profile including age verification may be stored (for example, on device 1106 or from an application or app on host device 1104). An application on host device 1104 may access the user profile via a network such as network 1103. Once a user is first age-verified as confirmed in the age verification system database, a user profile for this user may be generated and stored so that future verifications (i.e., "authentication") only require calling this database. In one embodiment, age verification may be a prerequisite for host device 1104 to generate a control signal 1105 and present it to device 1106.

[0104] The host device 1104 may be any computing device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. The host device 1104 may communicate with device 1106 for authentication and provide it with control signals 1105. As considered with respect to Figures 13-15, the control signals 1105 from the host device 1104 to device 1106 may be voice signals or optical signals. In some embodiments, the host device 1104 may be directly coupled to device 1106 for purposes such as providing power or communication. The host device 1104 is already configured to communicate via a network such as network 1103, and since the host device 1104 provides this capability, device 1106 does not require the same level of communication capabilities. In one embodiment, the host device 1104 may provide control signals 1105 when communicating with the age verification system 1102 to authenticate and unlock device 1106.

[0105] Authentication may be a process to verify the user's identity after the user has already verified their age. If the user has not verified their age, the authentication process will fail. As described, the authentication process may include the device 1106 receiving and authenticating the control signal 1105 in order to unlock the device 1106. The age verification process may not be performed as frequently as the authentication process, which may be performed based on usage, such as breath frequency, breath length, usage time, and / or each time the cartridge is replaced (e.g., at the time of purchase of the device). In alternative examples, more frequent authentication processes may be performed as needed. Failure of the authentication process may result in the device 1106 not operating. For example, if the control signal 1105 is not approved for use with the device 1106, the device 1106 may be prevented from receiving the electricity necessary for heat.

[0106] The age verification system 1102 provides an indication of whether a user is of appropriate age for use of a particular product, such as an aerosol delivery device or an electronic nicotine delivery system ("ENDS") device containing an aerosol delivery device, both of which are examples of device 1106. At least some components or features of the age verification system 1102 may be part of device 1106 or host device 1104. For example, processing and determination by the age verification system 1102 may be performed locally after accessing a remote database. In an alternative embodiment, the age verification system 1102 may be remotely located and accessible via a network such as network 1103.

[0107] This disclosure assumes computer-readable media that contains or receives and executes commands in response to propagated signals, so that network-connected devices can communicate voice, video, audio, images, or any other data over the network. Device 1106, host device 1104, or age verification system 1102 may provide commands over the network via one or more communication ports. Communication ports may be created in software or be physical connections in hardware. Connection to the network may be a physical connection such as a wired Ethernet connection, or it may be established wirelessly as considered below. Similarly, connections to other components may be physical connections or established wirelessly. Device 1106 or host device 1104 may communicate through a network including, but not limited to, network 1103. For example, the signal detector circuit configuration 1202 (considered with respect to Figure 12) may include network functionality for coupling with host device 1104 or age verification system 1102. These components may include communication ports configured to connect to a network such as network 1103.

[0108] Networks (e.g., network 1103) may be connected to the device so that communication can take place between device 1106, host device 1104, and / or age verification system 1102, for example, between other wireless devices connected via a wireless network. As described, clusters of machines storing the data to be analyzed may be connected via one or more networks such as network 1103. Networks may include mass storage such as network-attached storage (NAS), storage area networks (SANs), or other forms of computers or machine-readable media, for example. Networks may include the internet, one or more local area networks (LANs), one or more wide area networks (WANs), wireline type connections, wireless type connections, or any combination thereof. Similarly, subnetworks that may employ different architectures or support or be compatible with different protocols may interoperate within a larger network. Various types of devices may be available to provide interoperability for different architectures or protocols, for example. As an exemplary example, a router may provide a link between LANs that are otherwise separate and independent. Communication links or channels may include, for example, analog telephone lines such as twisted-pair wires or coaxial cables, fully or partially digital lines including T1, T2, T3, and T4 type lines, Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDN), Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL), wireless links including satellite links, or other communication links or channels well known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, computing devices or other related electronic devices may be remotely connected to the network, for example, via telephone lines or links.

[0109] The wireless network may connect devices such as device 1106, host device 1104, and age verification system 1102. Network 1103 includes wireless networks and may employ standalone ad-hoc networks, mesh networks, wireless LAN (WLAN) networks, wireless wide area networks (WWANs), wireless metropolitan area networks (WMANs), cellular networks, and others. The wireless network may further include terminals, gateways, routers, and other systems connected by wireless radio links or the like, which may move freely or randomly or function arbitrarily, so that the network topology may change at times rather rapidly. The wireless network may further employ multiple network access technologies, including Long-Term Evolution (LTE), WLAN, wireless router (WR) mesh, or second, third, and fourth generation (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, or future) cellular technologies, and others. The network enables RF or wireless type communication via one or more network access technologies such as the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), General-Purpose Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), 3GPP® Long-Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Advanced, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA®), Bluetooth®, 802.11b / g / n, Zigbee, Z Wave, IEEE 802.16 (e.g., WiMAX), and / or other WWAN / WMAN technologies, and any future form of any of the above technologies. The wireless network may include some type of wireless communication mechanism for which signals can be communicated between devices. In some embodiments, the communication protocols listed above are used for communication between device 1106 and host device 1104, and the host device 1104 communicates with age verification system 1102 through the same or different communication protocols.

[0110] Signal packets transmitted over a network such as network 1103 or a network of digital communication networks involved may be compatible with or correspond to one or more protocols. The signal formats or protocols employed may include, for example, TCP / IP, UDP, DECnet, NetBEUI, IPX, Appletalk, and others. The version of Internet Protocol (IP) may include IPv4 or IPv6. The Internet refers to a distributed global network of networks. The Internet includes local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), wireless networks, or long-haul public networks that allow the communication of signal packets between LANs, for example. Signal packets may be communicated between nodes of a network, for example, to one or more sites employing local network addresses. Signal packets may be communicated over the Internet from a user site via an access node connected to the Internet. Similarly, signal packets may be forwarded via network nodes to a target site connected to the network via a network access node, for example. Signal packets transmitted over the Internet may be transported via paths such as gateways, servers, etc., that can transport signal packets according to the target address and the validity of the network path to the target address. This signal packet communication is applicable to data communication between device 1106, host device 1104, and / or age verification system 1102.

[0111] Device 1106 includes a signal detector 1107 for detecting signals. As shown in the figure, the control signal 1105 is communicated from the host device 1104 to the signal detector 1107, but the control signal 1105 may come from a source other than the host device 1104, including direct transmission to device 1106 via the network 1103. The signal detector 1107 may be an example of the sensor 908 shown in Figure 9. Examples of the signal detector 1107 are described with respect to Figures 14 and 15.

[0112] Figure 12 illustrates one embodiment of a signal detector circuit configuration 1202 that may be installed in or coupled with a signal detector 1107. The signal detector circuit configuration 1202 may be used by the device 1106 to verify that the received control signal 1105 is suitable for authentication. In addition to receiving and analyzing the control signal 1105, the signal detector circuit configuration 1202 may operate to perform authentication or may be used for initial age verification. The signal detector circuit configuration 1202 is also called an authentication circuit configuration and may include a processor 1204, memory 1206, a converter 1207, and a switch 1208.

[0113] The processor 1204 of the signal detector circuit configuration 1202 may reside on one or more chips and include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), or other types of processing units. The processor 1204 may be one or more general-purpose processors, digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits, field-programmable gate arrays, servers, networks, digital circuits, analog circuits, combinations thereof, or other devices that are currently known or will be developed for analyzing and processing data. The processor 1204 may operate in conjunction with software programs, such as manually generated (i.e., programmed) code.

[0114] The processor 1204 may be coupled with memory 1206, or memory 1206 may be a separate component. Memory 1206 may include, but is not limited to, computer-readable storage media such as various types of volatile and non-volatile storage media, including random access memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable read-only memory, flash memory, magnetic tape or disk, optical media, and others. Memory 1206 may include random access memory for processor 1204. Alternatively, memory 1206 may be separate from processor 1204, such as processor cache memory, system memory, or other memory. Memory 1206 may be an external storage device or database for storing recorded addresses or user data. Examples include hard drives, compact discs ("CDs"), digital video discs ("DVDs"), memory cards, memory sticks, floppy disks, Universal Serial Bus ("USB") memory devices, or any other device capable of storing data including authentication or signal detection data. Memory 1206 is operable to store instructions that can be executed by processor 1204.

[0115] Functions, operations, or tasks shown in the figures or described herein may be performed by a programmed processor executing instructions stored in memory 1206. Specifically, the operation of detecting a control signal 1105 and determining whether the control signal 1105 can authenticate device 1106 may be performed by processor 1204 based on instructions from memory 1206. In other embodiments, authentication and / or age verification from system 1102, etc., may be performed by processor 1204 based on instructions from memory 1206. Functions, operations, or tasks are independent of a particular type of instruction set, storage medium, processor, or processing strategy and may be performed by software, hardware, integrated circuits, firmware, microcode, etc., operating alone or in combination. Similarly, processing strategies may include multi-processing, multi-tasking, parallel processing, and others.

[0116] The processor 1204 may be configured to execute software that includes instructions for receiving / analyzing the control signal 1105, authenticating the device 1106, and / or verifying the user's age, or for subsequent authentication operations for the age verification system 1102. Specifically, if the processor 1204 cannot authenticate the control signal 1105, the switch 1208 is driven to deprive the device 1106 of power that would stop or suppress its operation. Specifically, the device 1106 may include a battery for powering the device, which is driven only when the device 1106 receives an authenticated control signal 1105. In other words, the flow of electricity is permitted if authentication by age verification is successful. Alternatively, the flow of electricity may be stopped if authentication or age verification fails. Specifically, when the switch 1208 is turned off, no power is supplied to the device 1106. The switch 1208 may be the switch 910 described with respect to Figure 9. Switch 1208 is shown as part of the signal detector circuit configuration 1202, but in an alternative embodiment, it may be another component on the device 1106.

[0117] The signal detector circuit configuration 1202 may include a converter 1207 for converting the control signal 1105. The conversion of the control signal 1105 may be part of the authentication process when the control signal 1105 is authenticated. The converter 1207 may differ depending on the type of control signal 1105, as will be further described below with respect to Figures 13 to 15.

[0118] Figure 13 illustrates an embodiment of the control signal 1105. The control signal 1105 is provided for the authentication of the device 1106. The control signal 1105 may correspond to the serial number of the device 1106 or a component (cartridge) of the device. In order to be authenticated, the control signal 1105 must match the serial number. In an alternative embodiment, a different identification or authentication code for the device 1106 may be provided instead of the serial number. In an alternative embodiment, the code may be unique for each device 1106, for each user, or for each device type. The age verification system 1102 may include a database for storing the codes or control signals 1105 provided for authentication. The database may associate users, profiles, and / or devices with specific codes that can unlock the device 1106. In one embodiment, the database is a decentralized network storage using blockchain technology as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 415,477, filed on May 17, 2019, claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 838,272, filed on April 24, 2019, for the same purpose, each disclosure being invoked by reference.

[0119] The control signal 1105 may be encrypted to reduce the possibility of hacking by an unverified user. In one embodiment, the serial number or other identifier of the device 1106 may be randomly assigned to a hash code stored in the device 1106's memory chip (e.g., memory 1206) during manufacturing. The value may be stored in a database that is updated and accessed for authentication. In the embodiment of Figure 19, a help desk operator can access this database. In this embodiment, when the operator receives a call from the purchaser of device 1106 to unlock the device, the operator refers to the serial number and provides the assigned hash code. In an alternative embodiment, once the user is identified and / or age-verified, the host device 1104 can access a database for specific items. In another example of encryption, the serial number or identifier may utilize some kind of code operator that converts all numbers in the same way. For example, a set amount may be added to or subtracted from all serial integers and serial letters. In an example where the set amount is +5, the encrypted identifier of S189A4R becomes X634F9W. To add safety and complexity, the code may change based on the manufacturing date / time of device 1106.

[0120] The device 1106 may be sold in a locked position, preventing its use until authentication, which may include age verification registration, is completed. In one embodiment, a kiosk located at the point of sale facilitates consumer registration and age verification of the device at the time of purchase. Once the consumer has undergone age verification, the device's periodic authentication is used to verify the consumer. In other embodiments, retail staff may also be involved in the registration and age verification process, such as by scanning identification documents and prompting the device purchaser for visual or auditory input to be used for authentication.

[0121] A pseudo-random number generator may be incorporated into the device 1106, either synchronized with a network version such as the age verification system 1102, or associated with a help desk operator. This random number generator may be rolling and change after a predetermined amount of time. The control signal 1105 does not need to be linked to the device serial number. Examples of other forms of encryption may include advanced encryption standards (AES), triple data encryption standards (3DES), Twofish, or RSA techniques, which can be used to encrypt the control signal 1105 to deter unverified users from unlocking the device. These techniques can encrypt the control signal 1105 before sending it to the device 1106, which can then encrypt the signal using an assigned key stored in the device 1106's memory 1206.

[0122] The control signal 1105 may be the same for all manufactured devices, or it may be unique to a user, profile, or specific device. During the device manufacturing process, the device software may be encoded with a specific unlock sequence (i.e., the control signal 1105 including the audio signal 1302 and / or optical signal 1304) corresponding to the serial number or another identifier. In one example, the control signal 1105 may be an unlock tone sequence which is the device's serial number, rewritten according to a character encoding scheme such as Morse code or tap code.

[0123] The control signal 1105 from the host device 1104 to device 1106 may be an audio signal 1302. The audio signal 1302 may include a tone sequence. The audio signal 1302 or tone sequence may be a series of pulses, such as long and short pulses, similar to Morse code. In alternative embodiments, different types of sequences with increasing and / or decreasing amplitude and / or frequency may be used. The serial number or identifier may be converted into an authentication tone by the age verification system 1102 or through software used by an operator (e.g., a help desk operator). This conversion may be done through software. An example of such software is: This may include conversion to Morse code, such as the free online software at https: / / morsecode.scphillips.com / translator.html. The conversion of a serial number or identifier is, in the case of Morse code, a conversion to a series of dots and dashes. Thus, the identifier S189A4R becomes … .---- ---..----..-….-.-. This Morse code signal can be reproduced audibly in a device 1106 that detects the code with a signal detector 1107 and converts the code with a converter 1207. A control signal 1105 is called the conversion signal, which is also converted to an identifier by the device 1106.

[0124] The control signal 1105 from the host device 1104 to the device 1106 may be an optical / optical / scan signal 1304, which may be called an optical signal. The optical signal 1304 may be a series of optical pulses or optical sequences. Communication with optical signals or light sources is further described in UK Patent Application No. 1906243.9, filed in the UK on 5 March 2019, entitled "Electronic Vapor Provision System with Optical Wireless Communications," which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0125] Figure 14 illustrates an embodiment of the voice detector 1402. The voice detector 1402 is one embodiment of the signal detector 1107. The voice detector 1402 may include a pressure sensor 1407 and / or a microphone 1408. In some embodiments where the device is an exhalation-driven aerosol delivery device, the pressure sensor 1407 may include an existing pressure sensor (e.g., sensor 908) of the device 1107 that can be used to measure changes in pressure when the user blows into or inhales the device 1107 to drive the device 1107 (e.g., turn on the heater). Another pressure sensor may be provided to measure inhalation in order to drive the device, or only one pressure sensor may be provided that can be used to drive the device and detect the voice signal 1302 when inhaled. In other words, the pressure sensor 1407 may be the same sensor used to detect exhalation and drive the heater, or a secondary pressure sensor may be used only for authentication.

[0126] To improve the detection of the voice signal 1302, the pressure sensor 1407 may be exposed on the external surface of the device 1107 by means of an orifice, port, or tube. In an embodiment where the voice signal 1302 is provided by a help desk staff member (e.g., Figure 19), the help desk staff member may instruct the device purchaser to hold the phone speaker in an appropriate location on the external surface of the device 1107, such as an orifice, port, or tube, so that the pressure sensor 1407 is positioned optimally for detecting the voice signal 1302 (i.e., the authentication tone). In another embodiment where the voice signal 1302 is provided by an app or software on a host 1104 (e.g., a computing device, mobile phone, tablet, etc.), the app may instruct the user on how to hold the smartphone speaker in the optimal location relative to the device 1107. In this way, the pressure sensor 1407 can reliably detect the voice signal 1302.

[0127] The audio signal 1302 is called an authentication tone and may be a low-frequency pressure wave. In one embodiment, the wave may be the lower limit of the functionality of a basic telephone speaker used in most smartphones or mobile phones. In one example, the frequency may be approximately 10 Hz to 20 Hz in order for the pressure sensor 1407 to detect a tone with a low signal-to-noise ratio.

[0128] There can be various embodiments of the pressure sensor 1407 capable of detecting the audio signal 1302. One example is a sealed differential pressure sensor that allows a change in atmospheric pressure (due to pressure or sound waves) to be compared to a standard reference pressure. The sealed differential pressure sensor can detect sound waves emitted from a speaker. Alternatively, the pressure sensor 1407 may be an unsealed differential pressure sensor that includes a flow sensor that compares the pressure generated from a fluid stream passing through two holes of different diameters. The unsealed differential pressure sensor needs to be positioned and configured to detect sound waves more effectively.

[0129] In another embodiment, the device 1107 may house a microphone 1408. The microphone 1408 may be an additional component, but is capable of detecting a wide range of tones (e.g., both audible and inaudible) that may be emitted by a mobile phone speaker. Specifically, audible tones are the frequency range that is audible to humans, while tones may further include a wider range that includes inaudible tones. The microphone 1408 may be used to detect exhalation and drive a heater, or a secondary microphone may be provided to detect only the voice signal 1302 or authentication tone. In this embodiment, the frequency may be an upper limit of the functionality for a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet, or other common speaker, such as a range of 20 kHz to 25 kHz. Such frequencies are inaudible to the user or device purchaser, but are still detected by the microphone 1408. The microphone 1408 may detect tones based on a functional limit that includes audible frequencies in the range of approximately 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

[0130] The microphone 1408 capable of detecting the audio signal 1302 can have various embodiments. One example is a MEMS electret microphone using a PTFE thin-film diaphragm. This example may be long-lasting and appropriately sized. Other examples may use other electret microphones. In addition, there are other microphones of the condenser microphone class. Other examples include crystal or piezoelectric microphones. These examples can detect noise or vibration through a solid and may be mounted inside the outer shell of the device, eliminating the need for an orifice, tube, or port to propagate sound waves to the device 1107.

[0131] Figure 15 illustrates an embodiment of the optical detector 1502. The optical detector 1502 is one embodiment of the signal detector 1107. The optical detector 1502 may also be called a visual detector or photodetector. The optical detector 1502 may include a light sensor 1507, a photodiode 1508, a reader 1509, and / or an infrared detector 1510. The light sensor 1507 may include a light-dependent resistive element. These sensors may change resistance with the presence or absence of light. This requires that current flows through the resistive element when an optical signal 1304 (i.e., an authentication light sequence) is transmitted. The photodiode 1508 may include a sensor that generates a small current when exposed to a light source. This acts as a switch and may have a rapid response time.

[0132] The optical detector 1502 may include a reader 1509, such as a camera, barcode reader, or other detector. In one example, a user may capture an image of a unique code (e.g., a barcode) associated with a particular device (e.g., on a host 1104, including a mobile device or smartphone). In an alternative example, the reader 1509 may read barcodes, radio frequency (RF) identification, near-field communication (NFC) communication, magnetic strip readers, chip readers (e.g., similar to credit card readers), wired communication, or wireless communication. Exemplary barcodes may include any type of scannable identifier, such as a universal product code (UPC), data matrix code, and / or quick response (QR) code. Codes may include one-dimensional (1D) codes, two-dimensional (2D) codes, three-dimensional (3D) codes, or other types of codes. Exemplary communication and authentication using RFID are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,015,987 by Henry et al. and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0020191 by Lamb et al., each incorporated herein by reference. Exemplary communication and authentication using NFC are described in U.S. Patent No. 9,864,947 by Sur et al., incorporated herein by reference. Codes such as barcodes may be printed on product packaging, on labels, on the product itself, or on inserts in product packaging. In one embodiment, a unique barcode may be provided for each specific device. An application or website linked from the barcode may use software to convert the identification information extracted from the unique barcode into a corresponding authentication optical sequence. In other words, scanning a barcode may trigger the host 1104 to emit an optical signal 1304. Alternatively, an application or website may refer to identification information extracted from a unique barcode in a database to determine the appropriate optical signal 1304 for this specific device 1106.In another embodiment, the device 1106 (or the package / insert of the device 1106) may include an RFID tag that can be read by a host 1104 (e.g., a mobile device or smartphone) capable of running an application or accessing a website. The RFID tag may include a unique identifier for the device 1106, which may result in the generation of an optical signal 1304 that can authenticate or unlock a particular device 1106.

[0133] For example, the optical detector 1502 may have a light wavelength range of approximately 400 nm to 700 nm. The optical detector 1502 may be tuned to accept a narrow range of wavelengths or any / all of them (i.e., white light). Contrary to a series of pulses, the optical signal 1304 may include a wavelength pattern. In one example, the optical signal 1304 rises from 400 nm to 500 nm in 3 seconds, remains dark for 5 seconds, and then rises from 400 nm to 700 nm in 1 second. This change in wavelength and time can be used to generate a unique optical signal 1304. Other patterns and wavelength changes may be used.

[0134] When host 1104 is a mobile device or smartphone, the optical signal 1304 may be generated by a display (e.g., the arrangement of light / colors on the screen or pulses from the display) or by a flashlight (e.g., a back-facing flashlight from a mobile device or other computing device). An example of a display may include a display that is mostly dark but includes a portion that is placed near the optical detector 1502 of device 1106 to detect any of the colors / pulses / patterns displayed on the display screen. In an example of host 1104 that includes a flashlight application, an app may be programmed to cause the flashlight to transmit light according to a specific pattern or sequence that provides the optical signal 1304. The increased light intensity due to the flashlight may reduce the chance of signal loss during transmission. Prior to the transmission of the optical signal 1304, the app may instruct the user to position the device appropriately so that the optical detector 1502 is aligned with the flashlight of host 1104 or the mobile device. The optical detector 1502 may include a reader 1510 for scanning a QR code or other barcode displayed on an app or web page corresponding to age verification by the age verification system 1102. In such embodiments, the reader 1510 scans this QR code® that enables the device to be unlocked.

[0135] In one embodiment, the optical sensor of the device may be an infrared (IR) sensor 1510. The host 1104 may be a mobile phone or another IR-utilizing device that communicates the optical signal 1304 via IR. In some embodiments, a combination of visible light spectrum and IR may be provided, depending on a variety of optical detectors 1502 (e.g., optical sensor 1507 and IR 1510), or a single sensor may measure both. Providing a combination of optical types results in a large set of code combinations for the optical signal 1304. The user can see the visible light spectrum, while IR is undetectable, which can also improve safety by suppressing the reproduction of the optical signal. For IR or invisible signals, the user may be provided with an indication (e.g., a visual spectral pulse) or confirmation that the optical signal 1304 is being communicated to control / unlock the device.

[0136] Figure 16 shows an example system for the functional control of a device using voice signals. Similar to Figure 11, Figure 16 illustrates a system for voice detection. Host 1104 can access the age verification system 1102 via network 1103. During verification, host 1104 may be used to authenticate device 1106. Specifically, host 1104 can provide a voice signal 1302 to device 1106 for detection via a voice detector such as a pressure sensor 1407 and / or a microphone 1408. The voice signal 1302 is a control signal or authentication signal for unlocking device 1106. In other embodiments, the voice signal 1302 may be provided via a help desk call rather than a user's smartphone or mobile device. In such embodiments, host 1104 may be considered a help desk accessed via voice communication (e.g., VoIP or phone call).

[0137] Figure 17 shows an example system for the functional control of a device using optical signals. Similar to Figure 11, Figure 17 illustrates a system for optical / visual detection. Host 1104 can access the age verification system 1102 via network 1103. During verification, host 1104 can be used to authenticate device 1106. Specifically, host 1104 can provide device 1106 with an optical signal 1304 for detection by optical detector 1502. Optical signal 1304 is a control signal or authentication signal for unlocking device 1106. An example of optical detector 1502 is shown and described in relation to Figure 15.

[0138] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control signal process. In block 1802, a user / consumer purchases a device such as device 1106. The purchase can be made online or in person at a retail store or kiosk. In block 1804, the device may operate until authentication is required. In one embodiment, the device may remain locked or inoperable until authentication is complete. In another embodiment, device 1106 may be sold unlocked for limited use (limited time or limited breath) before authentication is required. Authentication first requires age verification, as in block 1806, which may be performed by an age verification system 1102. Age verification may only be required once or periodically updated, whereas authentication may be required more frequently (e.g., each time a cartridge or other aerosol source component is replaced). The age verification system 1102 provides a function for verifying the user's age. Age verification is for this user so that verification is applied to a number of devices used by that particular user, although authentication may still be required for each individual device. In some embodiments, each device may require an age verification process in addition to subsequent authentication.

[0139] As an initial age verification step, the age verification system 1102 may require several identification documents to determine the user's age. For example, a driver's license or passport may be uploaded to determine the user's age. By performing facial recognition using an image from this document, this image may further be used for age verification. The facial recognition technology can analyze the two images and flag the verification to confirm identity matching, reject identity verification, or request additional identification information. This age verification may include comparing this image with a self-portrait ("selfie") or video taken by the user with their mobile device or webcam. This can deter fraudulent activity such as simply showing someone else's photo. Specifically, this reduces the potential for using a hard copy of a photograph to deceive the facial recognition software (e.g., holding a driver's license near a webcam). Selfie images uploaded by the user may be checked for liveness by recording a short video and checking for frame changes. In an alternative embodiment, the verification step may include audible input from the user, such as a repetition of numbers, sequences, or codes, to verify liveness. Other examples of age verification may include some form of fingerprint reader to verify the user after their age has been verified. In one embodiment, the host 1104 may accept a fingerprint as part of the verification process. Other biometrics used to verify the user may include DNA, blood, or other biometric indicators.

[0140] Device 1106 may require more frequent authentication to ensure it is distributed to other users after it has not been age-verified. Authentication may include providing control signals to device 1106, as in block 1808. As described, the control signals may be either the voice signal 1302 or the optical signal 1304. These signals may originate from the host device 1104 or from another source (e.g., a help desk call). The control signals are received by device 1106 in block 1810, and if the control signals are valid, the device is authenticated and continues to be used until authentication is required again in block 1812. If the control signals received by device 1106 in block 1810 are invalid, device 1106 is not authenticated and remains locked until a valid authentication control signal is sent in block 1808.

[0141] In some embodiments, authentication of the device via a control signal unlocks the device for a specific user, and any further authentication that may be required in the future can be performed by the device 1106 itself. For example, biometrics, a fingerprint reader, or other biological indicators described above may be used by the device for authentication. In this regard, in some embodiments, the device 1106 may be associated with the biometrics of a specific user used for initial authentication (e.g., at the time of initial authentication) to deter use of the device 1106 by a second user. When re-authentication is required in the future, the user can unlock the device 1106 and / or continue using it by providing user biometrics for re-authentication. As a further example, a user may set a code, such as a PIN code, that can be entered via the user interface of the device 1106 (e.g., through a touch screen, input buttons, or a specific breath pattern that may be provided by the user blowing into the device), and / or via a computing device 1106 that is communicate-coupled to the device 1106 when the device 1106 is first authenticated, and which can then enter a PIN code to re-authenticate the user, unlock the device 1106, and / or continue using it.

[0142] Figure 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the voice signaling process. The example shown in Figure 19 is the use of a help desk for verification and authentication of device 1106. Specifically, a user can call a help desk line for verification and / or authentication. In block 1902, the user calls the help desk for age verification. The help desk call may be used to verify identity by providing or confirming user information. The help desk staff obtains information of the device purchaser, which may include the device serial number, purchase date, driver's license number, the last four digits of the social security number, or other personal information that can be used to verify the purchaser's identity. In one embodiment, the help desk may be used to verify information contained in an identification document to verify the user's age in block 1904. The help desk operator can then transmit a voice signal 1302 for the user to provide to device 1106. Specifically, the user's handset, which may be the host device 1104, has a speaker for transmitting the voice signal 1302 or authentication tone in block 1906.

[0143] In some embodiments, the help desk call in block 1902, the help desk verification in block 1904, and the authentication tone in block 1906 may all originate from different devices or from the same device. For example, the verification call in blocks 1902-1904 may originate from a different phone than the source of the authentication tone. Specifically, the help desk may send or provide acknowledgment for an authentication tone sent from a different device or from a different source than the call to the help desk. In one example, based on user verification / authentication by the help desk, the authentication tone may be played through the phone's app (rather than being played through the speaker during the call). In another example, the help desk may send a one-time-only link to an audio file containing the authentication tone via email, text message, or notification. To deter fraudulent activity, the link may be valid for a limited time only.

[0144] The tone generation may originate from software that can be embedded in a mobile or web application used by the device purchaser (for example, through an application that includes a mobile device profile, as shown in Figure 20). The authentication tone is generated and transmitted through the speaker of the user's computer, phone, or mobile phone and detected by the voice detector 1402 of the device 1106, as in block 1908. If the authentication tone is not valid in block 1908, the device remains locked or unauthenticated and waits for proper authentication from block 1906. If the authentication tone is valid, the device 1106 can be used until authentication is required again in block 1910. In addition to the re-authentication process, requirements may be set that the device purchaser re-verify before any use, before any charging, after a predetermined time period, after a predetermined number of exhalation seconds or exhalation, prior to a predetermined number of cartridge insertions, or only at a single verification after purchase of the device. In such an example, when authentication is required again in block 1910, the user's age may need to be re-verified in block 1904 in addition to the authentication in block 1906.

[0145] Figure 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of authentication by a host device. The embodiment in Figure 20 authenticates device 1106 based in part on the profile of an age-verified user that can be accessed for authentication. In block 2002, the user purchases device 1106. In block 2004, the user provides identification information for the age verification system. As discussed above, the identification information may include information used to verify the user's identity and age. This information may be obtained by showing identification information (e.g., a driver's license) at a retail store, or by scanning identification information at a kiosk or on the user's personal device, such as a computer or mobile device. The user may upload their own identification information using an internet-connected age verification system (computer, mobile phone, etc.). During identification and age verification, the user can create a user profile with the age verification system 1102 in block 2006. The age verification system 1102 is connected via a network 1103, such as the internet, and requires the user to create a profile in an application or a web-based application. User profiles may be stored in the database of the age verification system 1102 for quick access during future authentication requests. Based on a request or confirmation that the user (or user profile) verifies the user's age, the host device 1104 may send a control signal 1105 to device 1106, as in block 2008. The control signal 1105 is stored and associated with the user profile stored in the database. Alternatively, an application may be provided to generate an appropriate control signal based on information stored in the user profile, including information about device 1106 (e.g., serial number). The control signal 1105 may be an audio signal 1302 or an optical signal 1304 transmitted by the host device 1104. If the control signal in block 2010 is not appropriate, device 1106 will not be authenticated and must wait for an appropriate control signal. If the control signal in block 2010 is appropriate, device 1106 may be used until authentication is required again in block 2012.When authentication is required again, block 2008 allows the host device to send control signals to the device again.

[0146] Figure 21 illustrates an example of an authentication key 2102. The authentication key 2102 may be sold as part of the device package. The authentication key 2102 is used with the optical signal 1304 by readily aligning with the optical detector 1502 (e.g., light sensor 1507) of the device 1106, and can block a certain amount of light or a predetermined segment of light that can be distinguished by the detector or sensor. A rotating mechanism that changes the light intensity reaching the detector / sensor or changes the segment of light that can reach the detector / sensor may be incorporated into the authentication key 2102. In one embodiment, a range of numbers (e.g., 0 to 12) is marked around the key. When the rotating mechanism is engaged, the numbers may also rotate relative to an arrow that helps the device user identify which number the key is set to. In this embodiment, the user can unlock the device 1106 without accessing a network or the internet. As described above, the user can first perform age verification (e.g., the user calls the help desk and performs age verification over the phone). After age verification, a number or sequence of numbers may be provided for use with the authentication key 2012. The number or sequence of numbers relates to the rotation of the authentication key 2012. In one embodiment, the number or sequence of numbers may correspond to the serial number of the device 1106. The corresponding optical sequence generated by the user rotating the key may be programmed into the memory of the device 1106 (e.g., memory 1206) during chip manufacturing or similar processes. The processor (e.g., processor 1204) then compares the predicted value stored in memory with the value received from one or more rotations of the authentication key 2102 and compares the two to determine authentication.

[0147] As can be seen from the above description, an authentication process may be employed using one of several different methods to unlock the use of device 1106. Some examples of these diverse methods are presented in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 441,903, entitled “Functional Control and Age Verification of Electronic Devices Through Speaker Communication,” claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 828,222 of April 2019, and in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 441,937, entitled “Functional Control and Age Verification of Electronic Devices Through Visual Communication,” claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 828,222 of April 2019, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Many of these references employ techniques that involve communication between device 1106 and other components or networks. In order to prepare to engage in and / or respond to such communication, device 1106 may need to be in a ready state (e.g., activated) that allows detection of attempts to communicate with device 1106 for authentication purposes. However, maintaining an activated state or such a ready state would waste the resources of device 1106 (e.g., battery power), potentially deterring authentication based on power shortage. This negatively impacts the user experience and is therefore desirable to avoid.

[0148] One option for conserving power in device 1106 may be to place the components of device 1106 into a low-power or sleep mode. In this case, a startup process may be defined to start device 1106 from low-power or sleep mode prior to the execution of an authentication process (which may be one of the methods described above or other appropriate authentication methods). Figure 22 shows a block diagram illustrating a general process for starting device 1106 according to an embodiment example. In this regard, in operation 2200, the user may first purchase a locked device (e.g., device 1106). In addition to being locked so that operation of device 1106 is not permitted until the authentication process is completed and the device is unlocked, device 1106 (or at least various components thereof) may also be in a low-power or sleep mode. Subsequently, in operation 2210, the user may start the device. However, the specific location of the startup associated with operation 2210 may alternatively be located elsewhere in this flowchart, as described below. By starting the device, device 1106 (which is still locked) may be started to perform an authentication process that may include appropriate processes (non-exclusively those mentioned above). While device 1106 is running, the user may access the age verification system for authentication in operation 2220. Therefore, for example, the operations of the age verification system described above with reference to Figures 11 to 19 may be initiated in operation 2220 (access to the age verification system 1102 via host 1104).

[0149] In operation 2230, a determination may be made as to whether the user's age (or identity) has been successfully verified. In some cases, the user may provide information, proof, and / or other information to determine or verify their age. This information or proof may include the presentation of identification documents (e.g., a passport photo page, a driver's license, etc.), blockchain-based identification technology (e.g., considered in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 415,444, filed May 17, 2019, entitled "Age Verification with Registered Cartridges for an Aerosol Delivery Device," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference), facial recognition or other biometric identification technology, and / or other information. However, in other cases, the user may verify their identity by verifying that they possess or are associated with an Activity Account Identifier, which has already been done through the age verification process (e.g., by providing an Activity Account Identifier and associated codes, serial numbers, or other information). If age verification is unsuccessful, the device 1106 remains locked in operation 2240. In some cases, the device 1106 returns to low-power or sleep mode and waits for another activation attempt before allowing another attempt at age or identification verification. However, in other cases, the user is allowed two or more attempts to complete the process (e.g., two, three, or any other specific number of attempts). If multiple attempts to complete age verification are allowed, the user may engage with each of the allowed attempts before the device 1106 returns to low-power or sleep mode or implements some other benefit-deterrent functions.

[0150] If age (or identity) verification is successful, in operation 2250 the user may provide device and host identification information. For example, the user may provide a serial number or other identification information associated with device 1106, and a telephone number, email address, or other identification information associated with host 1104. Subsequently, in operation 2260, the authentication process between device 1106 and host 1104 may be initiated. The authentication process includes, for example, the provision of an optical or voice unlock signal from host 1104 to device 1106, as described above. As described above, in some cases, the activation of the device in operation 2210 may cause the process to move between operations 2250 and 2260. In operation 2270, a determination may be made as to whether the completion of the authentication process was successful. If completion was unsuccessful, the flow returns to operation 2240, and device 1106 remains locked, as described above. In this regard, device 1106 may return to low-power or sleep mode and wait for another activation attempt prior to allowing another authentication attempt. However, in other cases, the user may allow more than two attempts to complete the authentication process (two, three, or any other specific number of attempts permitted). If multiple authentication attempts are permitted, the user may engage with each of the permitted attempts before the device 1106 returns to operation 2240 to return to low power or sleep mode or to perform some other benefit-deterrent function. However, if the authentication process is successfully completed, the device 1106 may be unlocked for use in operation 2280. The device 1106 remains unlocked permanently, manually, or until it is locked again due to the lock criteria being met.

[0151] Figure 23 shows a functional block diagram of the various components of apparatus 2300 (which may be an example of apparatus 1106) that may employ the general methods discussed above with reference to Figure 22. In this regard, apparatus 2300 may include a battery 2302 which may be configured to power the various components of apparatus 2300, including apparatus electronics 2304 which may operate to control aerosol generation via either a thermal or non-thermal method (e.g., application of heat to solutions for vapor generation (e.g., in response to detection of exhalation events) as described in more detail above, or the use of non-thermal mechanical atomization techniques such as vibrating mesh).

[0152] Battery 2302 may supply main power to the voltage regulation circuit 2306 and the control switch circuit configuration 2208. In the embodiment, battery 2302 may be replaceable. Therefore, a charging connection 2310 may be provided to receive power from an external source (e.g., main power supply, battery pack charger, etc.). The charging connection 2310 may supply power to a charging IC (integrated circuit) 2312 and a charging monitor circuit configuration 2314, which are configured to control the application of power to battery 2302 for safe battery charging. In the embodiment, a charging switch circuit configuration 2316 may be provided between the charging connection 2310 and the charging IC 2312.

[0153] The control switch circuit configuration 2308 may include one or more switches that can be operated to isolate the battery 2302 from the device electronics 2304 and suppress the operation of the device 2300 (for example, for vapor generation). Alternatively, the control switch circuit configuration 2308 may be operated to connect the main power from the battery 2302 to the device electronics 2304 and enable the operation of the device electronics 2304 (for example, for vapor generation in response to exhalation events). The charging switch circuit configuration 2316 may include one or more switches that can be operated to isolate the charging connection 2310 from the charging IC 2312 and suppress the charging of the battery 2302. Alternatively, the charging switch circuit configuration 2316 may be operated to supply power from the charging connection 2310 to the charging IC 2312 and the charging monitor circuit configuration 2314 to charge the battery 2302. Notably, Figure 23 shows the power from the charge monitor circuit configuration 2314 to the battery 2302 as a separate circuit from the circuit that provides power from the battery 2302 to the voltage regulation circuit 2306 and the control switch circuit configuration 2308. However, in some cases, these circuits may be combined as a single power bus.

[0154] The voltage regulation circuit 2306 may be configured to provide power to various components of the lock assembly described herein. The power supply to the lock assembly is indicated by dashed lines in Figure 23. Therefore, all components to which the dashed lines extend from the voltage regulation circuit 2306 can be considered part of the lock assembly of the device 2300. In this example, the lock assembly may include a microcontroller (e.g., MCU 2320), an authentication manager 2322, and a startup manager 2324. The lock assembly may be configured to provide various control or data signals (shown as dashed lines in Figure 23) to control the charging and operation of the device 2300 by operating the charge switch circuit configuration 2316 and the control switch circuit configuration 2308 as described herein.

[0155] In the embodiment, the MCU 2320 (or several other processors, controllers, etc.) may be configured to control the operation of the device 2300 with respect to steam generation and various other functions (including a locking function). In some cases, control of the charging function may be employed via a charging control signal 2330 issued by the MCU 2320, which can change the position of the charging switch circuit configuration 2316. In this regard, for example, if the charging control signal 2330 opens the charging switch circuit configuration 2316, the power path for charging the battery 2302 is opened or closed, and charging of the battery 2302 becomes impossible. However, if the charging control signal 2330 closes the charging switch circuit configuration 2316, a power path for charging the battery 2302 is provided, and charging of the battery 2302 can be performed from a power source connected to the charging connection 2310. Since the charging switch circuit configuration 2316 controls the charging of the battery 2302, the charging switch circuit configuration 2316 may also be called a “charging switch”.

[0156] Similarly, the steam generation function can be controlled by issuing a control signal 2332 from the MCU 2320 to the control switch circuit configuration 2308. In this regard, for example, if the control signal 2332 opens the control switch circuit configuration 2308, the power path from the battery 2302 (or power bus) to the device electronic equipment 2304 is opened or closed, so no heat is supplied for steam generation. However, if the control signal 2332 closes the control switch circuit configuration 2308, a power path from the battery 2302 (or power bus) to the device electronic equipment 2304 is established, enabling steam generation (in response to breath detection or by other means). Since the control switch circuit configuration 2308 controls the application of power (e.g., voltage) from the battery 2302 to the device electronic equipment 2304, the control switch circuit configuration 2308 can also be called a "voltage switch".

[0157] In some embodiments, the MCU 2320 may be configured to control the voltage switch and / or charge switch based on various control signals (or triggers) that the MCU 2320 may receive. The MCU 2320 may be started via one or more different events or signals, some of which are described in detail below with reference to Figures 24 and 25. However, several specific signals that may be applied individually (or in combination) in various embodiments are also shown in Figure 23. In this regard, as shown in Figure 23, the authentication manager 2322 may provide the MCU 2320 with an authentication signal 2340. In some cases, the authentication signal 2340 may be provided only to indicate that the authentication performed by the authentication manager 2322 was successful. However, in other cases, the authentication signal 2340 may indicate both affirmative and negative results of the authentication attempt. As described in more detail below with reference to Figure 25, when issued (or affirmative), the authentication signal 2340 may be used to unlock the device 2300 and close the voltage and / or charge switch. When no emission is generated (or when it is denied), the voltage and / or charging switches remain open, which can suppress vapor generation and / or charging, respectively.

[0158] Another control signal that may be received by the MCU 2320 to affect the state of the device 2300 may be a start signal 2342 provided by the start manager 2324. In this regard, the start manager 2324 may be configured to monitor for start events and provide instructions to various components of the lock assembly, which may otherwise be in sleep or low-power mode, to start up and prepare for an authentication attempt. Thus, for example, the authentication manager 2322, the start manager 2324, and / or the MCU 2320 may be in a sleep state until the start manager 2324 detects a start event and issues a start signal 2342.

[0159] In some cases, as indicated by control signal 2344, the startup manager 2324 may directly detect a startup event from the charging connection 2310. For example, coupling the charging connection 2310 to an external power source may trigger the generation of control signal 2344 to the startup manager 2324. The startup manager 2324 may then issue a startup signal 2342 to the lock assembly. Alternatively, in response to the startup signal 2342, control signal 2346 may be provided to the MCU 2320 (e.g., via power from the power bus) so that the MCU 2320 detects that sufficient battery power is available to operate the authentication process without external power from the charging connection 2310.

[0160] The operation of the startup manager 2324 according to an embodiment will now be described with reference to Figure 24. In this regard, the startup manager 2324 includes, or may be defined by, a processing circuit configuration configured to detect startup events in order to detect startup events and issue a startup signal 2342 to the MCU 2320. When the MCU 2320 is the MCU 2320 of the device 2300 (i.e., not the MCU of another board), the MCU 2320 is initially kept in standby mode to reduce power consumption. The startup signal 2342 can wake the MCU 2320 from standby mode and start the authentication process. In an embodiment, the startup signal 2342 may take the form of an interrupt provided to wake the MCU 2320 (and other lock assembly components) or to signal the MCU 2320 that the authentication process is imminent. The interrupt may be issued in response to the drive of the actuator 2400. Therefore, as shown in Figure 24, an interrupt generator 2410 is provided to receive input from the actuator 2400 in order to generate an interrupt in the form of a start signal 2342.

[0161] The actuator 2400 can take several different forms. For example, the actuator 2400 may be a button, switch, or other operating component that can be operated directly or indirectly by a user. For example, the actuator 2400 may be a button that is easily exposed or is shielded in such a way that intentional effort is required to expose the button for operation. If easily exposed, the button may be a multifunction button operated in a specific manner (e.g., by holding it for a certain period of time or by pressing it for code input). However, the button may also be a dedicated button that is pressed only once to activate the interrupt generator 2410, or operated by holding it for a certain period of time or in a pattern as described above. If the button is shielded, the user needs to use a tool to access the button and activate it. For example, the button may be located inside a hole, and a paperclip or similar tool may be used to activate the button. Alternatively, the tool for activating the button may be integrated with a charger or charging device. For example, a button may be provided in a hole (as discussed above), and a protruding pin may be provided on the charger that interacts with the button when the charger is attached to the charging connection 2310. In such an example, the protruding pin may activate the button when the charger is attached to the charging connection 2310, and a control signal 2344 may be sent to the start manager 2324. Alternatively, the control signal 2344 may be interpreted as the placement of the charger to the charging connection 2310 to activate the actuator 2400 and start the interrupt generator 2410 to generate an interrupt signal as a start signal 2342.

[0162] As another example, actuator 2400 may be activated in response to the removal of a blocking device. For example, tab 2420 may be provided to block the operation of actuator 2400 (e.g., by a biasing assembly configured to block the operation of a button that is otherwise blocked by tab 2420). Another option is that tab 2420 blocks current, and when removed, the current to actuator 2400 (or to the MCU 2320 itself in the form of control signal 2346) may act as an activation signal 2342 or as an activation event. In yet another example, tab 2420, or a magnet, pin, or other device, may be integrated into the package of device 2300. In such an example, removing device 2300 from the package may start actuator 2400 by removing tab 2420, for example, or by driving control signal 2346 to generate an activation event for the lock assembly (e.g., MCU 2320 and / or other components of the lock assembly). In cases where the package contains a magnet (or where the tab 2420 is embodied as a magnet), the movement of the tab 2420 in response to the removal of the package may change the switch position (thus activating the actuator 2400), or the actuator 2400 may be activated without any physical force being applied. For this reason, some embodiments include a system that encompasses a combination of an aerosol delivery device (e.g., device 2300) and an automated activation assembly in the form of a device package (e.g., represented by the tab 2420), where the activation event is initiated by the removal of the package.

[0163] In some examples, the actuator 2400 is a pressure sensor (or breath sensor), so detection that the user is inhaling or exhaling into the actuator 2400 triggers the generation of the activation signal 2342. In other alternative embodiments, the actuator 2400 may be embodied as or interact with other sensors or components. For example, the actuator 2400 may be embodied as or interact with an accelerometer. The accelerometer detects a particular type or pattern of motion, and the actuator 2400 interacts with the interrupt generator 2410 to generate the activation signal 2342 as appropriate. Positioning the device in a particular orientation may cause the actuator 2400 to start, either briefly or for a given period of time. Alternatively or additionally, shaking, tapping, or motion in a detectable pattern may cause the actuator 2400 to activate the interrupt generator 2410. As another alternative, the sensor may detect changes in current, voltage, or resistance that may be initiated by the insertion and / or removal of a pod (or a test pod with a special configuration having a given resistance value different from that of a normal pod). In such an example, when the pod (or test pod) is inserted into the device 2300, a significant change in current or voltage occurs, which is detected due to the resistance of the pod (or test pod). The change itself, or a given pattern of change, may be used to activate the actuator 2400.

[0164] Figure 25 shows a flowchart illustrating an example of how the components in Figures 23 and 24 may work together to start, authenticate, and lock / unlock a device (e.g., device 1106 or device 2300). As shown in Figure 25, in operation 2500, the lock assembly may initially be in a deep sleep state. In this state, the components of the lock assembly are at minimum power, and a lock status is applied to the lock assembly, with the voltage switch and charge switch respectively open, suppressing both charging and operation of device 2300. In operation 2502, the MCU 2320 (and / or the entire lock assembly) remains in sleep mode or minimum power mode while waiting for an interrupt. Once an interrupt is received, operation 2504 may determine whether a charger event has occurred (e.g., plugging a charger into charging connection 2310 or providing control signal 2346). If no charger event has occurred, operation 2506 may determine whether a start event has occurred. If no start event is detected, operation 2508 may determine whether a charger has been installed. If the charger is not installed, the flow returns to operation 2502. However, if the charger is installed, the flow may proceed to operation 2510, where the lock status is determined. The determination regarding the lock status (i.e., operation 2510) is also a result of the determination in operation 2504 that a charger event occurred. In this regard, if a charger event is detected in operation 2504, the charger event may be released in operation 2512 before proceeding to operation 2510 for the lock status determination. Regardless of whether the flow reached operation 2510 via the detection of a charger event, operation 2510 will determine whether the lock assembly (or roughly the device 2300) is locked or unlocked.

[0165] If the lock status is "unlocked," the charge switch is closed to allow charging, and operation 2514 may monitor energy delivery. Referring again to Figure 23, as a result of operation 2514, the charge control signal 2330 is issued to close the charge switch circuit configuration 2316. Therefore, the charge IC 2312 and the charge monitor circuit configuration 2314 can receive power from the charge connection 2310 via the charge switch circuit configuration 2316. The flow then returns to operation 2506 to determine whether an activation event has been detected.

[0166] If the lock status is "locked," operation 2516 may determine whether the one-time charge limit has been reached. If the one-time charge limit has not been reached, the flow proceeds to operation 2514, where the charge switch is closed to allow charging, as described above, and energy delivery may be monitored in operation 2514. However, if the one-time charge limit has been reached, the charge switch may be opened in operation 2518. Therefore, for example, as a result of operation 2518, a charge control signal 2330 may be issued to open the charge switch circuit configuration 2316. Consequently, the charge IC 2312 and the charge monitor circuit configuration 2314 do not receive power from the charge connection 2310 via the charge switch circuit configuration 2316.

[0167] Returning to operation 2506, if an activation event is detected, operation 2520 may perform a scan operation for the authentication code. However, it should be recognized that in some cases the authentication code may also be scanned following or as part of an age / ID verification operation. The scan operation may be performed automatically (e.g., Bluetooth pairing, RFID or NFC tag reading, or other automated scanning options). However, in other examples, the user may initiate operation 2520 and, in some cases, provide information to facilitate the execution of operation 2520. The scanning of the code may include audio codes, optical or visual codes, or other appropriate authentication methods (including, but not limited to, those described herein). Thus, for example, authentication methods may include providing proof of trust such as blockchain technology, facial recognition or other biometric identification technology, PIN codes, serial numbers, etc., which may be performed concurrently with the authentication process, provided in advance, or by other appropriate means.

[0168] Operation 2522 may determine whether the scanned code was verified or authenticated. If the code is not authenticated or verified, operation 2524 may determine whether the activation timer has been exceeded. In this regard, the activation timer may start when an activation event is detected in operation 2506. The user is allowed to perform one or more authentication attempts before the activation timer ends. Therefore, if the activation timer has not ended, the flow returns to operation 2520, and the user can attempt another scan for the authentication code. In some cases, instead of or in addition to the timer, several attempts may be counted (limited). If the activation timer ends after a code verification failure (or if the number of acceptable attempts is exceeded), the activation event flag is cleared in operation 2526, and the flow may return to operation 2508.

[0169] If the code is verified or authenticated in response to the decision in operation 2522, the activation event flag may be cleared in operation 2528 before the decision in operation 2530 is made as to whether the verified code is a lock code or an unlock code. If the verified code is a lock code, the flow returns to operation 2500, the status is set to lock, and both the voltage switch and the charge switch are opened. If the verified code is an unlock code, the flow proceeds to operation 2532. In operation 2532, the lock assembly continues to operate at minimum power, and the lock status may change to "unlocked". The charge switch and the voltage switch are closed, and the one-time charge flag (if applicable) may also be cleared. The flow then returns to operation 2502 and waits for the next interrupt.

[0170] Thus, an aerosol delivery device may be provided according to an example embodiment. The device may include a rechargeable power supply configured to provide power and generate an aerosol, device electronics configured to generate an aerosol in response to the application of power from the power supply, and a lock assembly configured to suppress recharging of the power supply and / or the application of power from the power supply to the device electronics in a locked state, and to allow recharging of the power supply and the application of power from the power supply to the device electronics in an unlocked state. The lock assembly may be configured to perform a variety of operations, including 1) detecting an activation event while the lock assembly is in a locked state, 2) activating the lock assembly in response to the activation event, 3) performing an authentication process, and, upon completion of the authentication process, 4) transitioning the lock assembly between a locked state and an unlocked state. Notably, operations 1-4 are performed in a sequential order, but such order is fixed or not intended to be fixed. Therefore, the number assigned to the above order (and the order in the list itself) is not limiting, and the order in which the operations are performed may be changed in various examples of embodiments. For example, an authentication process (operation 3 above) may be performed, and as a result, an unlock key may be provided. The device is then activated and can be unlocked with the unlock key. In this example, the specific order would be 3), 1), 2), 4).

[0171] The above description of the use of the articles may be applied to the various implementation examples described herein through minor modifications that may become obvious to those skilled in the art in consideration of further disclosures presented herein. However, the above description of the use is not intended to limit the use of the articles and is provided to satisfy all disclosure requirements necessary for this disclosure. Any of the elements shown in the articles illustrated in Figures 1 to 25, or described above, may be included in the aerosol delivery devices provided herein.

[0172] A person skilled in the art relating to this disclosure, possessing the merits of the teachings presented in the above description and the associated drawings, will likely conceive of many variations and other implementations presented herein. Therefore, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation, and that variations and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, while the above description and the associated drawings illustrate examples of implementations in the context of certain combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be recognized that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative implementations without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, it is assumed that combinations of elements and / or functions different from those explicitly described above may also be presented in some of the appended claims. Certain terms are used herein, but only in a general and descriptive sense, not for limiting purposes. [Note 1] A rechargeable power source configured to provide power and generate aerosols, An electronic device configured to generate the aerosol upon receiving the power from the aforementioned power source, A lock assembly configured to suppress charging of the power supply and / or the application of power from the power supply to the electronic equipment of the device in the locked state, and to allow charging of the power supply and the application of power from the power supply to the electronic equipment of the device in the unlocked state, It is equipped with, The lock assembly, The lock assembly detects an activation event while it is in the locked state. Upon receiving the aforementioned activation event, the lock assembly is activated, The authentication process is implemented, Upon completion of the authentication process, the lock assembly is transitioned between the locked state and the unlocked state. It is configured in such a way. Aerosol delivery device. [Note 2] The aerosol delivery device according to Appendix 1, wherein the lock assembly comprises a startup manager configured to start the lock assembly from a low-power or sleep mode in the locked state in response to the aforementioned startup event. [Note 3] The aerosol delivery apparatus according to Appendix 2, wherein the startup manager is configured to detect the startup event in response to the operation of the actuator. [Note 4] The aerosol delivery device according to Appendix 3, wherein the actuator is equipped with a button or operating member that is operated by a user according to an operating pattern or operating code. [Note 5] The aerosol delivery device described in Appendix 4, wherein the actuator is shielded and operates in response to contact with the device initiated by the user. [Note 6] The aerosol delivery apparatus according to Appendix 5, wherein the device is integrated into a charging device configured to interact with the power supply in order to charge the power supply. [Note 7] The aerosol delivery device according to Appendix 3, wherein the actuator is driven in response to the detection of the position or motion pattern of the aerosol delivery device. [Note 8] The actuator is configured to interact with or be integrated with a package related to the sale of the aerosol delivery device. The removal of the package drives the actuator. Aerosol delivery device as described in Appendix 3. [Note 9] The actuator is configured to interact with an interrupt generator to generate an interrupt. The microcontroller of the aerosol delivery device is activated from a standby state upon receiving the interrupt. Aerosol delivery device as described in Appendix 3. [Note 10] The aerosol delivery apparatus according to Appendix 3, wherein the actuator is driven in response to the removal of a tab from a part of the aerosol delivery apparatus. [Note 11] The lock assembly comprises an authentication manager configured to perform the authentication process in response to the aforementioned activation event, The authentication process includes scanning an authentication code and, upon verification of the authentication code, transitioning the lock assembly to the unlocked state. Aerosol delivery device as described in Appendix 2. [Note 12] A control switch circuit configuration that, when closed, allows power to be applied from the power source to the electronic equipment of the device, and when opened, suppresses the application of power from the power source to the electronic equipment of the device, A charging switch circuit configuration that enables charging of the power supply when closed and suppresses charging of the power supply when opened, The aerosol delivery device described in Appendix 1, further comprising one or both of the above. [Note 13] The aerosol delivery device according to Appendix 12, wherein the lock assembly is configured to close the control switch circuit configuration and the charging switch circuit configuration upon transitioning to the unlocked state, and to open the control switch circuit configuration and the charging switch circuit configuration upon transitioning to the locked state. [Note 14] A method for unlocking the aerosol delivery device from low power or sleep mode, Detecting an activation event while the aerosol delivery device is in a locked state where the charging function or aerosol generation function is not possible, Upon detection of an activation event, the lock assembly of the aerosol delivery device is activated from the low-power or sleep mode. The authentication process is carried out via the aforementioned lock assembly, Upon completion of the authentication process, the lock assembly is moved to an unlocked state in which the charging function and the aerosol generation function can be performed. A method of including. [Note 15] The method according to Appendix 14, wherein the activation of the lock assembly includes activating the microcontroller of the aerosol delivery device from standby mode and activating the authentication manager to perform the authentication process. [Note 16] The method according to Appendix 14, wherein the detection of the activation event includes detecting the operation of an actuator. [Note 17] The method according to Appendix 16, wherein the detection of actuator operation includes detecting the operation of a button or operating member activated by a user according to an operating pattern or operating code. [Note 18] The method according to Appendix 17, wherein the actuator is shielded and operates in response to user-initiated contact with an instrument integrated with a charging device configured to interact with the battery of the aerosol delivery device, either operated by a user or by a user-initiated contact with an instrument configured to interact with the battery of the aerosol delivery device. [Note 19] The method according to Appendix 14, wherein the execution of the authentication process includes scanning an authentication code and, upon verification of the authentication code, transitioning the lock assembly to the unlocked state. [Note 20] A system for driving locked package components, Aerosol delivery device and A package assembly comprising a package related to the sale of the aerosol delivery device, It is a system that is equipped with, The aerosol delivery device, A rechargeable power source configured to provide power and generate aerosols, An electronic device configured to generate the aerosol in response to the application of the power from the power source, A lock assembly configured to suppress charging of the power supply and / or the application of power from the power supply to the electronic equipment of the device in the locked state, and to allow recharging of the power supply and application of power from the power supply to the electronic equipment of the device in the unlocked state, It is equipped with, The lock assembly is configured to activate, authenticate, and unlock the aerosol delivery device. The lock assembly is configured to be interconnected with or integrated with the package such that the removal of the package initiates the activation of the aerosol delivery device. system. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0173] 100 Aerosol Delivery Devices 102 Control Body 104 cartridges 206 Housing 208 Control Components 210 Flow Sensor 212 Power supply 214 Indicators 216 Housing 218 Reservoir 220 heating element 222 Fluid transport elements 224 Opening 226 Electronic Components 228 base 230 couplers 232 Cavity 234 Protrusion 236 Air intake 238 Outer perimeter 240 Inner circumference 242 Convex part 244 recess 300 Aerosol Delivery Devices 302 Control Body 304 Aerosol source component 406 Heating end 408 Mouth end 410 Aerosol Precursor Composition 412 External covering materials 414 Filter 516 Housing 518 Opening 520 Flow Sensor 522 Control Components 524 Power supply 526 Indicator 528 Heating Assembly 530 Outer cylindrical body 532 Heating Element 534 storage base 536 Confinement Rooms 538 Air intake 700 Aerosol Delivery Device 702 Control Body 704 Cartridge 806 Shell 808 Control Components 810 Input device 812 Power supply 814 Indicator 816 Cartridge Shell 818 Reservoir 820 nozzles 822 Opening 824 Micropump 826 Microfilter 900 Aerosol Delivery Device 902 Control Body 904 Power supply 906 Control Components 908 Sensor 910 Switch 912 Processing Circuit Configuration 914 Signal conditioning circuit configuration 916 Aerosol Generating Component 918 terminals 922 signal 1000 signal conditioning circuit configuration 1001 Signal Adjustment Chip 1002 Bidirectional Voltage Level Converter 1102 Age Verification System 1103 Network 1104 Host device 1105 Control signal 1106 Equipment 1107 Signal detector 1202 Signal detection circuit configuration 1204 Processor 1206 memory 1207 Converter 1208 Switch 1302 Audio signal 1304 Optical signal 1402 Voice detector 1407 Pressure Sensor 1408 Microphone 1502 Optical detector 1507 Light Sensor 1508 Photodiode 1509 Leader 1510 Infrared detector 2102 Authentication Key 2300 equipment 2302 Battery 2304 Equipment Electronics 2306 Voltage Regulation Circuit 2308 Control Switch Circuit Configuration 2310 Charging connection 2312 Charging Integrated Circuit 2314 Charging Monitor Circuit Configuration 2316 Charging switch circuit configuration 2320 MCU (Microcontroller Unit, Microcontroller) 2322 Authentication Manager 2324 Startup Manager 2330 Charging control signal 2332 Control signal 2340 Authentication signal 2342 Start signal 2344 Control signal 2346 Control signal 2400 actuators 2410 Interrupt Generator 2420 tabs

Claims

1. Aerosol delivery device, A rechargeable power source configured to provide power and generate aerosols, An electronic device configured to generate the aerosol upon receiving the power from the rechargeable power source, A lock assembly configured to suppress charging of the rechargeable power supply and / or the application of power from the rechargeable power supply to the electronic equipment of the device in the locked state, and to allow charging of the rechargeable power supply and the application of power from the rechargeable power supply to the electronic equipment of the device in the unlocked state, Actuator and It is equipped with, The lock assembly, The lock assembly detects an activation event while it is in the locked state, and the activation event is the user operating the actuator. Upon receiving the aforementioned activation event, the lock assembly is activated, The authentication process is implemented, Upon completion of the authentication process, the lock assembly is transitioned between the locked state and the unlocked state. Upon detecting the insertion of a charger while the lock assembly is in the locked state, the system is configured to allow charging of the rechargeable power supply up to a one-time charging limit, and then to suppress further charging while the lock assembly remains in the locked state. Aerosol delivery device.

2. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 1, wherein the lock assembly comprises a startup manager configured to start the lock assembly from a low-power or sleep mode while in the locked state in response to the startup event.

3. The aerosol delivery apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the activation manager is configured to detect the activation event in response to the operation of the actuator.

4. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a button or operating member that is operated by the user according to an operating pattern or operating code.

5. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 4, wherein the actuator is shielded and operates in response to contact with the device initiated by the user.

6. The aerosol delivery apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the device is integrated with a charging device configured to interact with the rechargeable power supply in order to charge the rechargeable power supply.

7. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 1, wherein the actuator is driven in response to the detection of the position or motion pattern of the aerosol delivery device.

8. The actuator is configured to interact with a package related to the sale of the aerosol delivery device, The removal of the package drives the actuator. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 1.

9. The actuator is configured to interact with an interrupt generator to generate an interrupt. The microcontroller of the aerosol delivery device is activated from a standby state upon receiving the interrupt. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 1.

10. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 1, wherein the actuator is driven in response to the removal of a tab from a part of the aerosol delivery device.

11. The lock assembly comprises an authentication manager configured to perform the authentication process in response to the aforementioned activation event, The authentication process includes scanning an authentication code and, upon verification of the authentication code, transitioning the lock assembly to the unlocked state. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 2.

12. A control switch circuit configuration that, when closed, allows power to be applied from the rechargeable power supply to the electronic equipment of the device, and when opened, suppresses the application of power from the rechargeable power supply to the electronic equipment of the device, A charging switch circuit configuration that enables charging of the rechargeable power supply when closed and suppresses charging of the rechargeable power supply when opened, The aerosol delivery device according to claim 1, further comprising one or both of the above.

13. The aerosol delivery device according to claim 12, wherein the lock assembly is configured to close the control switch circuit configuration and the charging switch circuit configuration upon transitioning to the unlocked state, and to open the control switch circuit configuration and the charging switch circuit configuration upon transitioning to the locked state.

14. A method for unlocking an aerosol delivery device, Detecting an activation event while the lock assembly of the aerosol delivery device is in a locked state in which the charging function or aerosol generation function is not executable, and detecting the activation event includes detecting the operation of an actuator by the user. Upon detection of an activation event, the lock assembly of the aerosol delivery device is activated from low power or sleep mode. The authentication process is carried out via the aforementioned lock assembly, Upon completion of the authentication process, the lock assembly is moved to an unlocked state in which the charging function and the aerosol generation function can be performed. Upon detecting the attachment of the charger while the lock assembly is in the locked state, the charging of the rechargeable power supply of the aerosol delivery device is permitted up to a one-time charging limit, and thereafter, further charging is suppressed while the lock assembly remains in the locked state. A method of including.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the activation of the lock assembly comprises activating the microcontroller of the aerosol delivery device from standby mode and activating the authentication manager to perform the authentication process.

16. The method according to claim 14, wherein the activation of the lock assembly includes activating the authentication manager and performing the authentication process.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the detection of the actuator's operation includes detecting the operation of a button or operating member activated by the user according to an operation pattern or operation code.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the actuator is shielded and is operated by a user or in response to user-initiated contact with an instrument integrated with a charging device configured to interact with the battery of the aerosol delivery device.

19. The method according to claim 14, wherein the execution of the authentication process includes scanning an authentication code and, upon verification of the authentication code, transitioning the lock assembly to the unlocked state.

20. A system for driving locked components, A host device equipped with a display and configured to communicate with a network, Aerosol delivery device and It is a system that is equipped with, The aerosol delivery device, A rechargeable power supply configured to provide power and generate an aerosol, wherein the rechargeable power supply operates while the lock assembly of the aerosol delivery device is in the locked state, An electronic device configured to generate the aerosol in response to the application of the power from the rechargeable power source, A lock assembly configured to suppress charging of the rechargeable power supply and / or the application of power from the rechargeable power supply to the electronic equipment of the device in the locked state, and to allow charging of the rechargeable power supply and the application of power from the rechargeable power supply to the electronic equipment of the device in the unlocked state, It is equipped with, The lock assembly is configured to activate, authenticate, and unlock the aerosol delivery device, and the authentication process for the aerosol delivery device includes the aerosol delivery device scanning an authentication code displayed as a barcode on the host device's display, and, upon verification of the authentication code, transitioning the lock assembly to the unlocked state. Upon detecting the attachment of a charger to the aerosol delivery device while the lock assembly is in the locked state, the lock assembly is configured to allow charging of the rechargeable power supply up to a one-time charge limit, and thereafter, to suppress further charging while the lock assembly is in the locked state. system.

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