Delivery devices and systems

Abstract

A delivery system for a metabolic regulator is provided that includes a sensor component configured to determine a metabolic state of a user, a delivery component configured to deliver the metabolic regulator, and a controller configured to receive information regarding the metabolic state of the user and control delivery of the metabolic regulator accordingly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a delivery device for delivering a metabolic regulator and a delivery system comprising the delivery device.

Background Art

[0002] Human energy balance is important in understanding weight gain and weight loss, and successful weight loss results from matching energy intake to energy output. Generally, energy expenditure (EE) is an indicator of the amount of energy required for various biological functions. Resting EE (REE) is the energy required to support minimal cell processes and constitutes approximately two-thirds of the total daily EE (TDEE). The most common method of measuring EE is by indirect calorimetry. To determine EE in an organism, oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide exhalation are measured. This is directly related to the energy demand as a function of cell processes.

[0003] Understanding and regulating EE are factors in weight gain and weight loss, and it is desirable to provide advancements in this field.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a delivery system for a metabolic regulator comprising a sensor component configured to determine a user's metabolic state, a delivery component configured to deliver a metabolic regulator, and a controller configured to receive information regarding the user's metabolic state and control the delivery of the metabolic regulator accordingly.

[0005]

[0006] In a further aspect, there is provided a controller for a delivery system for a metabolic regulator, the controller being configured to receive information regarding the user's metabolic state from a sensor component configured to determine the user's metabolic state and control the delivery of the metabolic regulator in response thereto.In a further embodiment, a delivery component is provided for a delivery system for metabolic modifiers, the delivery component being configured to deliver metabolic modifiers in response to information about the user's metabolic state.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for operating a delivery system for metabolic modifiers, the delivery system comprising: a sensor component configured to determine a user's metabolic state; a delivery component configured to deliver metabolic modifiers; and a controller configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of the metabolic modifiers accordingly, the method comprising the steps of determining the user's metabolic state; receiving information about the user's metabolic state; and controlling the delivery of the metabolic modifiers accordingly.

[0008] In a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is a means for delivering a metabolic regulator, the means comprising a sensor means configured to determine the user's metabolic state; a delivery means configured to deliver the metabolic regulator; and a control means configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of the metabolic regulator accordingly.

[0009] As will be apparent from the following description, these and other aspects form part of the present disclosure. It should be clearly noted that the description of one aspect may be combined with one or more other aspects, and that such descriptions should not be considered as a set of discrete paragraphs that cannot be combined with one another. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the aerosol supply device related to this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is an abstract graph displaying the metabolic rate of three exemplary users over time. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary delivery system according to the present invention. [Figure 4]This is a further schematic diagram of an exemplary delivery system according to the present invention. [Figure 5] This is yet another schematic diagram of an exemplary delivery system according to the present invention. [Figure 6] This is yet another schematic diagram of an exemplary delivery system according to the present invention. [Figure 7] A schematic method for controlling the aspects of a delivery system according to a particular embodiment of this disclosure is provided below. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] [Detailed explanation] Specific examples and embodiments of aspects and features are described herein. Some aspects and features of specific examples and embodiments may be carried out conventionally and are not described in detail for the sake of brevity. Therefore, it can be understood that aspects and features of apparatus and methods described herein that are not described in detail may be carried out according to any prior art for implementing such aspects and features.

[0012] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a delivery system is provided comprising a sensor configured to determine a user's metabolic state, a controller, and a delivery device including at least one metabolic regulator, wherein the controller is configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator to the user accordingly. The delivery system thus configured is operable to respond to provide a certain level of control over the user's metabolic state.

[0013] A user's metabolic state refers to an indicator or measurement of their energy expenditure (EE). Metabolic state is sometimes called the metabolic rate and indicates the amount of energy used (i.e., consumed) per unit of time (e.g., kcal per hour). Users with a high metabolic rate have a higher energy expenditure per unit of time (i.e., higher energy consumption than users with a low metabolic rate) than users with a low metabolic rate. Thus, a user's metabolic state determines the amount of energy they use. Therefore, providing a certain level of control over the metabolic state preferably allows for the promotion or maintenance of the user's energy expenditure within a target range.

[0014] In some cases, delivering or providing at least one metabolic regulator to a user can induce a higher metabolic state than in the absence of the regulator, thereby increasing the user's energy expenditure. Increased energy expenditure can aid in weight management (for example, by enhancing weight loss or by helping the user stabilize their body weight).

[0015] In some cases, at least one metabolic regulator can be delivered or provided to the user to induce a lower metabolic state than in the absence of the regulator, thereby reducing the user's energy expenditure. This reduction in energy expenditure can help with weight management (for example, by increasing weight gain or by helping to stabilize the user's weight).

[0016] In some further examples, the delivery or provision of at least one metabolic regulator can be restricted or limited to reduce changes in the user's metabolic rate. By limiting changes in the user's metabolic rate, it may be possible to assist in targeting the user's metabolic rate, which may be useful for weight management (for example, by preventing metabolic rates higher or lower than a desired metabolic rate).

[0017] metabolic regulator The metabolic modifiers used herein may be bioactive materials that are intended to achieve or enhance the physiological response to the user's metabolism. Metabolic modifiers may be naturally occurring or obtained synthetically. Metabolic modifiers may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or components, derivatives, or combinations thereof. Metabolic modifiers may include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or another plant.

[0018] In some examples, metabolic regulators may include those selected from the group comprising nicotine, caffeine, catecholamines, cannabinoids, L-theanine, and terpenes. It may be understood that other compounds that affect the metabolic state may be used.

[0019] In some cases, metabolic regulators can be metabolic stimulants such as nicotine, caffeine, and catecholamines. Metabolic stimulants are compounds that increase (i.e., stimulate) the user's metabolic rate and therefore increase energy expenditure.

[0020] As mentioned above, in some cases catecholamines (e.g., norepinephrine and epinephrine) are used as metabolic stimulants. Catecholamines stimulate beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors, inducing the flight-flight response. The paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus contains adrenergic receptors that, when stimulated by norepinephrine, reduce food intake. In addition to inducing appetite suppression, these catecholamines are part of the collective stress response, and stimulation of agonist receptors mobilizes energy storage areas (adipose tissue) centrally and peripherally, increasing the body's calorie demands and overall oxygen consumption.

[0021] As described above, in some examples, nicotine is used as a metabolic stimulant. Nicotine has been shown to increase energy consumption, which generally coincides with it being primarily the result of catecholamine stimulation. Nicotine has been shown to stimulate the release of norepinephrine both medially and laterally in the hypothalamus. The utilization of energy stores as a result of catecholamine stimulation from nicotine further explains how nicotine treatment shows a reduction in adiposity in animals. In some embodiments, nicotine is a derivative or extract of tobacco.

[0022] As described above, in some examples, caffeine is used as a metabolic regulator due to its stimulatory effect on the user's metabolic rate.

[0023] In some examples, two or more metabolic stimulants can be used in combination to enhance the effect on the metabolic rate. For example, in some examples, caffeine is used in combination with nicotine. The combination of caffeine and nicotine significantly enhances the thermogenic response to energy consumption. The rates of glucose and fat oxidation are similar regardless of dose, indicating that this response is not a function of changes in substrate oxidation

[0144] .

[0024] In some examples, the metabolic regulator can be a metabolic inhibitor such as a cannabinoid, L-theanine, and terpene. A metabolic inhibitor means a compound that reduces (i.e., inhibits) the user's metabolic rate and thus decreases energy usage.

[0025] As described herein, the metabolic regulator can include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes. For example, as described above, cannabinoids can be used as a metabolic regulator due to their inhibitory effect on the user's metabolic rate. For example, as also described above, terpenes can be used as a metabolic regulator due to their inhibitory effect on the user's metabolic rate.

[0026] As described above, in some cases, L-theanine can be used as a metabolic regulator due to its inhibitory effect on the user's metabolic rate.

[0027] As described herein, metabolic regulators may include or be derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts. As used herein, the term “plant-derived” includes, but is not limited to, any material derived from plants, including extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, shells, etc. Alternatively, the material may include naturally occurring active compounds in synthetically obtained plants. The material may be in the form of liquids, gases, solids, powders, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, flakes, strips, sheets, etc. Examples of plants include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo biloba, hazelnut, hibiscus, laurel, licorice, matcha, mato, orange skin, papaya, rose, sage, tea (green or black), thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, anise, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, and rabbi. This includes corn, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, beefsteak plant, kulchma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, sartre, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, galbi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, siacrine, maca, swagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. Mint can be selected from the following mint varieties: Mentha alventis, Mentha cv, Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata cv, Mentha piperita cv, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Mentha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pregium, Mentha spicata cv, and Mentha suaveolens.

[0028] In some embodiments, the metabolic regulator comprises or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts, the plants being selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, and hemp.

[0029] In some embodiments, the metabolic regulator comprises or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts, the plants being selected from rooibos and fennel.

[0030] In some cases, using two or more metabolic stimulants in combination can enhance their effect on metabolic rate.

[0031] In some cases, metabolic stimulants can be used in combination with metabolic inhibitors to produce a mitigated effect on metabolism. For example, combinations can be provided in which the simultaneous intake of a metabolic inhibitor weakens the effect of the metabolic stimulant. Alternatively, in some cases, combinations of compounds can be provided to the user such that the effect of the metabolic inhibitor is weakened due to simultaneous intake caused by the metabolic stimulant. It can be further understood that various combinations of three or more compounds (either stimulants or inhibitors) can be provided to enable a more regulated effect on metabolic rate.

[0032] Physical activity and metabolic rate Metabolic rate is influenced not only by the effects of metabolic regulators but also by physical activity. Therefore, physical activity can be used to indirectly estimate metabolic rate compared to a baseline (for example, by determining whether the user is at rest or active and estimating the metabolic rate according to how "active" the user is).

[0033] The combination of physical activity (i.e., the user's level of activity) and the delivery of metabolic regulators may have a more improved effect than the delivery of metabolic regulators to an inactive user (i.e., a stationary user). While not theoretically bound, the effects of metabolic regulators can be enhanced by the user being in an active state rather than a resting state.

[0034] For example, the pharmacokinetics of nicotine result in an enhancement of the metabolic effects of physical activity. This may be because physical activity slows down nicotine metabolism, prolonging the presence of nicotine in the blood, thereby increasing the catecholamine agonist effect.

[0035] Considering the above, in some examples, the user's physical activity (e.g., activity level) can be considered an additional factor in determining how to control the user's metabolic rate (e.g., by determining the appropriate amount of at least one metabolic regulator to deliver or otherwise provide to the user).

[0036] Delivery device The term "delivery device" is intended to encompass a device or system that delivers at least one substance to a user. Non-combustible aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosol-generating materials without burning the materials, such as hybrid systems that generate aerosols using a combination of e-cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and aerosol-generating materials, and The invention includes an aerosol-free delivery device for delivering to a user orally, nasally, transdermally, or otherwise without forming an aerosol, at least one substance, including but not limited to patches, articles containing inhalable powders, and oral products, wherein the at least one substance may or may not contain nicotine.

[0037] According to this disclosure, a “non-flammable” aerosol supply system is a system in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or their components) of the aerosol supply system are not burned or flammable in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0038] In some embodiments, the delivery device is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as an electrically operated non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0039] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an e-cigarette, also known as a vaporization device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0040] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. An example of such a system is a cigarette heating system.

[0041] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0042] Generally, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0043] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables configured for use with non-flammable aerosol supply devices that do not contain aerosol-generating materials. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0044] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as the non-flammable aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power source or a heat source. In some embodiments, the heat source includes a carbon substrate that can be powered to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or heat transfer material adjacent to the heat source.

[0045] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a region for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating region, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0046] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, packaging paper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0047] In some embodiments, the delivered substance may be an aerosol-generating material or a material not intended to be aerosolized. Optionally, any of the materials may include one or more active ingredients, one or more flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0048] In some embodiments, the delivered substance includes a metabolic regulator.

[0049] In some embodiments, the delivered substance includes a flavoring agent.

[0050] As used herein, the terms “flavor” and “flavoring” refer to materials that may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatic sensation in a product intended for adult consumers, where local regulations permit it.These include naturally occurring flavorings, plants, plant extracts, synthetically obtained substances, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, white magnolia leaves, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, anise, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berries, red berries, cranberries, peaches, apples, oranges, mangoes, clementines, lemons, limes, tropical fruits). Roots, papaya, rhubarb, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, hut, naswar, betel leaf, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine Sumina, Ylang-Ylang-Ylang, Sage, Fennel, Wasabi, Pimento, Ginger, Coriander, Coffee, Hemp, Peppermint Oil of all Mentha species, Eucalyptus, Star Anise, Cocoa, Lemongrass, Rooibos, Flax, Ginkgo, Hazelnut, Hibiscus, Bay Leaf, Yerba Mate, Orange Peel, Rose, Green Tea and Black Tea, Thyme, Juniper, Elderflower, Basil, Bay Leaf, Cumin, Oregano, Paprika, Rosemary, Saffron, Lemon Peel, Mint, Beefsteak Plant, Curcuma, Coriander, Myrtle, Blackcurrant, Valerian, This product contains pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, kalbi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators, or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plant-based substances, and breath fresheners.They may be imitations, synthetics, or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, such as a liquid like an oil, a solid like a powder, or a gas.

[0051] In some embodiments, the flavor includes menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus, and / or red berry. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from cannabis.

[0052] In some embodiments, flavor may include, in addition to or instead of, aroma or taste nerves, sensations intended to achieve somatosensations that are usually chemically induced and perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), and these may include agents that provide heating, cooling, stinging, or paralyzing effects. A suitable heat agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and a suitable coolant may be, but is not limited to, eucoliptol or WS-3.

[0053] Aerosol-generating materials are materials that can generate aerosols when heated, irradiated, or powered by other means, for example. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of solids, liquids, or gels, which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may include an "amorphous solid," which may alternatively be called a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material capable of holding some fluid, such as a liquid, within itself. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may include, for example, about 50% by weight, 60% by weight, or 70% by weight of amorphous solid to about 90% by weight, 95% by weight, or 100% by weight of amorphous solid.

[0054] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0055] The aerosol-forming material may contain one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material may contain one or more of the following: glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, mesoerythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of diacetins, benzyl benzoate, benzylphenyl acetate, tributyline, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0056] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of the following: pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0057] The material may be present on or within a support to form a substrate. The support may be, for example, paper, cardboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or metal alloy, or may include these. In some embodiments, the support includes a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or both sides of the material.

[0058] Consumables are articles containing or consisting of aerosol-generating materials, some or all of which are consumed during use by the user. Consumables may also comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging paper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Furthermore, consumables may include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which releases heat to generate aerosols in the aerosol-generating material during use. The heater may comprise, for example, a flammable material, an electrically conductive material, or a susceptor.

[0059] A susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetration due to a fluctuating magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be a conductive material, resulting in penetration by a changing magnetic field causing inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, resulting in penetration by a changing magnetic field causing magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both conductive and magnetic, resulting in the susceptor being heatable by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a fluctuating magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0060] Aerosol modifiers are typically substances located downstream of an aerosol-generating region and are configured to modify the generated aerosol, for example, by altering the taste, flavor, acidity, or other properties of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier may be provided in an aerosol modifier-releasing component that is operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier.

[0061] The aerosol modifier may be, for example, an additive or an adsorbent. The aerosol modifier may contain, for example, one or more of the following: a flavoring agent, a coloring agent, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol modifier may be, for example, a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol modifier may be in the form of a powder, thread, or granules. The aerosol modifier does not need to contain a filter material.

[0062] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to expose the aerosol-generating material to thermal energy in order to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to expose the aerosol-generating material to one or more of the following: vibration, pressure increase, or electrostatic energy.

[0063] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram (not to scale) of an exemplary aerosol / vapor supply system according to the present invention. The exemplary e-cigarette 10 has a substantially cylindrical shape, extending along the longitudinal axis indicated by the dashed line LA, and comprising two main components: a body 20 (aerosol supply device) and a cartomizer 30. The cartomizer includes an internal chamber housing a reservoir of a source liquid containing a liquid formulation from which an aerosol is generated, a heating element (an example of an aerosol generator), and a liquid transport element (a wicking element in this example) for transporting a source of (one or more) metabolic regulators in liquid form to the vicinity of the heating element. The heating element, a portion of the liquid transport element, and the volume surrounding the heating element and a portion of the liquid transport element may be called the aerosol generation region (i.e., the region from which the aerosol is generated).

[0064] The cartomizer 30 further includes a mouthpiece 35 having an opening from which the user can inhale an aerosol from the heating element. The source liquid may be of the conventional type used in e-cigarettes, for example, containing 0 to 5% nicotine dissolved in a solvent including glycerol, water, and / or propylene glycol. The source liquid may also contain flavorings. The reservoir for the source liquid may include a porous matrix or any other structure within a housing for holding the source liquid until it is needed to be supplied to the aerosol generator / vaporizer. In some examples, the reservoir may comprise a housing defining a chamber for containing the free liquid (i.e., the porous matrix may not be present).

[0065] As will be further described below, the main unit 20 includes a rechargeable cell or battery for supplying power to the e-cigarette 10 and a circuit board including a control circuit for overall control of the e-cigarette. During active use, i.e., when the heating element receives power from the battery as controlled by the control circuit, the heating element vaporizes a source liquid in its vicinity to generate an aerosol. The aerosol is inhaled by the user through the opening of the mouthpiece. During user inhalation, the aerosol is carried from the aerosol generation area to the mouthpiece opening along air channels connecting them.

[0066] In the exemplary system of Figure 1, the body 20 and the cartomizer 30 are detachable from each other by separating in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis LA, as shown in Figure 1, but are joined to each other by connectors schematically shown as 25A and 25B in Figure 1 to provide a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the body 20 and the cartomizer 30 when the device 10 is in use. The electrical connector on the body 20 used to connect to the cartomizer can also function as a socket for connecting a charging device (not shown) when the body is detached from the cartomizer 30. The other end of the charging device can be plugged into an external power source, such as a USB socket, to charge or recharge the cells / battery in the body 20 of the e-cigarette. In other embodiments, a cable may be provided for a direct connection between the electrical connector on the body and an external power source, and / or the device may be provided with a separate charging port, such as a port conforming to one of the USB formats.

[0067] The e-cigarette 10 is provided with one or more holes (not shown in Figure 1) for use as air inlets. These holes connect to an air passage (airflow channel) that extends through the e-cigarette 10 to the mouthpiece 35. Typically, an air path through such a device is relatively complex in that it must pass through various components and / or make multiple turns after entering the e-cigarette. The air passage includes a region around the aerosol generation area and a portion containing an air channel connecting the aerosol generation area to the opening of the mouthpiece.

[0068] When a user inhales through the mouthpiece 35, air is drawn into this air passage through one or more air inlet holes appropriately positioned on the outside of the e-cigarette. This airflow (or associated pressure change) can be detected by an airflow sensor (not shown), in this case a pressure sensor, for detecting the airflow within the e-cigarette 10 and outputting a corresponding airflow detection signal to a control circuit. The airflow sensor operates according to the prior art in terms of how it is positioned within the e-cigarette and can generate an airflow detection signal indicating when there is an airflow through the e-cigarette (e.g., when the user inhales or blows into the mouthpiece).

[0069] When a user inhales (sucks) over the mouthpiece during use, the airflow passes through the air passage (airflow channel) through the e-cigarette and combines / mixes with vapor in the area around the aerosol generation region to produce an aerosol. The resulting combination of airflow and aerosol continues along the airflow path connecting the aerosol generation region to the mouthpiece for user inhalation. The cartomizer 30 may be removed from the main body 20 and discarded when the supply of source liquid is depleted (it may be replaced with another cartomizer if necessary). Alternatively, the cartomizer may be refillable.

[0070] sensor The term "sensor" is intended to encompass devices that measure at least one physical property (e.g., a parameter or variable), particularly a property related to or indicating a user's metabolism during use.

[0071] An exemplary characteristic is heart rate, which can be measured by, for example, a heart rate sensor (e.g., a vibration or optical sensor for detecting pulses). Heart rate can be used to identify the user's activity level (e.g., "active" or "resting"), and this can be used to infer the user's metabolic state.

[0072] One example of a characteristic is body temperature, which can be measured by a thermometer or temperature sensor (e.g., a thermistor or an optical sensor such as an infrared optical sensor). Body temperature can indicate the body's energy expenditure.

[0073] One example of a characteristic is physical motion, which can be measured by motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers or gyroscopes). Physical activity can be used to identify the user's activity state (e.g., "active" or "resting"), which can then be used to infer the user's metabolic state.

[0074] An exemplary characteristic is blood pressure, which can be measured by a blood pressure sensor (e.g., a vibration or pressure sensor). Blood pressure can be used to identify the user's activity level (e.g., "active" or "resting"), and this can be used to infer the user's metabolic state.

[0075] An exemplary characteristic is oxygen, as measured by a chemical sensor. Users consume oxygen as part of their metabolic processes, and therefore, higher levels of oxygen consumption indicate a higher metabolic rate.

[0076] An exemplary characteristic is carbon dioxide, measured by a chemical sensor. The user generates carbon dioxide as they consume oxygen as part of their metabolic process; therefore, a higher level of carbon dioxide generation indicates a higher metabolic rate.

[0077] An exemplary characteristic is respiratory rate, which can be measured by motion (e.g., accelerometer), acoustic (e.g., vibration sensor), or pressure sensor. A user consumes oxygen and produces carbon dioxide as part of their metabolic process; therefore, a higher respiratory rate can indicate an increased need for oxygen, which itself indicates a higher metabolic rate. Measurement of respiratory rate can be further improved by estimating or determining the amount of air inhaled and exhaled.

[0078] An exemplary feature is rapid eye movements during sleep (i.e., REM sleep), which can be measured by electroencephalography or inferred from motion sensors.

[0079] In the embodiments, a sensor that may be configured to measure one or more of the exemplary characteristics described above is configured to output information about the user's metabolic state directly or indirectly. Thus, the sensor generates information or data that can be used to calculate, infer, or estimate the user's metabolic state. In some examples, the sensor, or a processing component that communicates with the sensor and receives readings from the sensor, may perform calculations on the measured data to determine or estimate the metabolic state before outputting calculated information about the user's metabolic state.

[0080] In some examples, a sensor can measure multiple physical properties and / or work in conjunction with one or more other sensors to measure physical properties. For example, a sensor can be configured to measure both heart rate and user activity. A higher heart rate when user activity is not increasing may indicate a higher REE (Recovery Energy Exposure). In some examples, a first sensor can be placed at a preferred location on the user to measure heart rate, and a second sensor can be placed at a preferred location on the user to measure movement. The first and second sensors can work together to enable the determination of the user's metabolic state. In some examples, the first sensor can be placed at a first location on the user, and the second sensor at a second location on the user, and both sensors can measure the same properties. This can improve the reliability of the measurements. In general, it can be understood that combining measurements of multiple properties can be used to improve the determination of the user's metabolic state.

[0081] Control mechanism According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a delivery system comprises a controller configured to receive information or data regarding a user's metabolic state from at least one sensor. The controller is configured to control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator to the user in response to, or based on, information regarding the user's metabolic state. A delivery system having such a controller is operable to provide a level of control over the user's metabolic state in response to information regarding the user's metabolic state.

[0082] In some examples, the controller can compare information received from sensors regarding the user's metabolic state with baseline information regarding the user's resting metabolic state. In some of these examples, the baseline information may be recorded by at least one sensor during a calibration or initialization process and provided to the controller. In other examples, the user can provide or input baseline information to the controller, for example, through a user interface. The controller can compare the information with the baseline information to determine or estimate the user's metabolic state. For example, a heart rate below, slightly above, or equal to the baseline resting heart rate may indicate a low metabolic state. Similarly, a heart rate significantly above the resting heart rate may indicate a high metabolic state.

[0083] In some examples, the controller can periodically or continuously compare information received from sensors regarding the user's metabolic state (i.e., sensor readings or measurements) with previous information regarding the user's metabolic state at previous points in time. This comparison can be used to determine the current metabolic state and / or the rate of change in the metabolic state. Furthermore, to provide an improved decision, the controller can base the rate of change on multiple sets of information regarding the user's metabolic state at multiple previous points in time. In some examples, at least some of the previous information regarding the metabolic state is measured using the same sensors that provide the controller with information periodically or continuously.

[0084] In some examples, at least some of the prior information regarding metabolic status is measured using a different sensor than the one that provides information to the controller periodically or continuously. For example, the prior information may be measured by a first sensor that is more accurate and / or makes a more direct measurement of metabolic status in order to enable the formulation of a reliable baseline for the user. Such a first sensor may be bulkier, more power-hungry, and / or less convenient for the user to carry. Then, the metabolic rate is estimated or inferred based on the baseline using a second sensor that measures properties that can indirectly estimate or infer the metabolic rate. Such a second sensor may be smaller, more power-efficient, and / or more convenient for the user to carry. In some examples, the second sensor may be measured simultaneously with the first sensor in order to enable the derivation of a more accurate relationship between the metabolic rate measurements using the first sensor and the metabolic rate measurements using the second sensor.

[0085] In some examples, the time between the measurement of current information and the measurement of previous information can be 1 minute to 60 minutes before the current information is supplied, 5 minutes to 40 minutes before the current information is supplied, or 10 minutes to 30 minutes before the current information is supplied. In some examples, it can be understood that much shorter periods can be used. For example, some sensors can measure parameters related to frequencies on the order of several thousand hertz. In some examples, the sensor can communicate all of the measured data or information to a controller that can analyze the data and identify trends. In other examples, the sensor performs the analysis itself and communicates the analyzed data or information to the controller.

[0086] In some examples, the controller is configured to determine, based on received information about the user's metabolic state, whether one or more metabolic regulators (in doses) should be delivered to the user, and / or at what time the one or more metabolic regulators should be delivered to the user. In some examples, based on the determination that one or more metabolic regulators should be delivered to the user, the controller may automatically deliver one or more metabolic regulators to the user immediately or at the determined time.

[0087] In some examples, the controller can receive information about the user's metabolic state and, in response to the reception of this information, can modify the delivery of one or more metabolic regulators to the user. In some examples, the controller is configured to use the received information in relation to performing comparisons. In some examples, the received information indicates the user's metabolic state and can be compared to one or more comparison values ​​to determine how to control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator upon reception. In some examples, the received information corresponds to or is otherwise associated with the user's metabolic rate so that the user's metabolic rate is established upon reception of the information. In other examples, the controller is configured to establish the user's metabolic rate by performing further analysis or processing. In some examples, the received information is processed or analyzed by the controller to take into account systematic corrections that depend on sensors or ambient conditions. In some examples, the received information is processed or analyzed to convert or generate a new data format that is easier to compare from the received information.

[0088] In some cases, the controller can determine an appropriate amount of one or more metabolic regulators to deliver to the user by comparing the received information, or information derived from information received after further processing, with one or more comparison values. The appropriate amount may be delivered immediately, at the next scheduled delivery time, or when the user indicates (for example, by interacting with a user interface or smoke sensor) that they want the next dose.

[0089] One or more comparison values ​​include at least one value selected from a group that includes baseline values, target values, thresholds, upper limits, and lower limits.

[0090] In some cases, comparing the received information, or information derived from information received after further processing, with baseline values ​​provides an indicator of how much the user's metabolic state has increased compared to the resting metabolic state. For example, if the received information establishes that the user's metabolic state is close to the user's baseline metabolic state, the controller can determine that the user's metabolic state is close to the resting state (the baseline corresponds to the minimum value measured while the user is at rest and / or measured for metabolic state). In such a case, the controller can determine that it is appropriate to increase the user's intake of metabolic stimulants and / or decrease the user's intake of metabolic inhibitors. Alternatively, if the received information establishes that the user's metabolic state is significantly higher than the user's baseline metabolic state, the controller can determine that the user's metabolic state is elevated. In such a case, the controller can determine that it is appropriate to decrease the user's intake of metabolic stimulants and / or increase the user's intake of metabolic inhibitors. In some cases, the amount of one or more metabolic regulators provided to the user can be adjusted depending on how the controller determines how much the user's metabolic state differs from the baseline metabolic state.

[0091] In some cases, comparing the received information, or information derived from information received after further processing, with target values ​​provides an indicator of how close the user's metabolic state is to the target metabolic state. For example, if the received information establishes that the user's metabolic state is lower than the user's target metabolic state, the controller may determine that it is appropriate to increase the user's intake of metabolic stimulants and / or decrease the user's intake of metabolic inhibitors. Alternatively, if the received information establishes that the user's metabolic state is greater than the user's target metabolic state, the controller may determine that it is appropriate to decrease the user's intake of metabolic stimulants and / or increase the user's intake of metabolic inhibitors. In some cases, the amount of one or more metabolic regulators provided to the user may be adjusted depending on how the controller determines how close the user's metabolic state is to the baseline metabolic state.

[0092] In some cases, comparing the received information, or information derived from information received after further processing, with a threshold provides an indicator of the user's specific metabolic state. For example, if the comparison confirms that the threshold is exceeded, the controller can determine the appropriate amount of one or more metabolic regulators to provide to the user; on the other hand, if the comparison confirms that the threshold is not exceeded, the controller can determine different appropriate amounts of one or more metabolic regulators to provide to the user.

[0093] Different thresholds can indicate different metabolic states. Furthermore, it can be understood that thresholds can be configured in relation to baseline and / or target metabolic states. For example, a threshold can be set as a percentage increase relative to a baseline value. In some cases, a controller may determine that the user's metabolic state is above a threshold and prevent or limit further administration of one or more metabolic stimulants until the metabolic state falls below the threshold. Alternatively, a controller may determine that the user's metabolic state is below a threshold and prevent or limit further administration of one or more metabolic inhibitors until the metabolic state increases above the threshold.

[0094] In some cases, a controller can perform comparisons against multiple thresholds, and a particular metabolic state is indicated depending on whether or not a threshold is exceeded. Depending on which threshold is exceeded or not, the controller can control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator in different ways.

[0095] In some cases, comparing the received information, or information derived from information received after further processing, with upper and / or lower range values ​​provides an indicator of the user's specific metabolic state. For example, if the comparison confirms that the user's metabolic state falls within the range values, the controller can determine an appropriate amount of one or more metabolic regulators to provide to the user. In some cases, a value within the range may indicate that the user's metabolic state is close to the desired state. In some cases, a value greater than the upper limit may indicate that the user's metabolic state is elevated compared to the desired state. In some cases, a value greater than the lower range value may indicate that the user's metabolic state is lower than the desired state. Furthermore, it can be understood that range values ​​may be constructed in relation to the baseline and / or target metabolic state. For example, upper and lower range values ​​may be set as a percentage increase relative to the baseline value. For example, upper and lower range values ​​may be set as a percentage change relative to the target value.

[0096] In some examples, the controller is configured to determine the amount (e.g., dose) of one or more metabolic regulators to be provided or delivered to the user. In some examples, the dose size is calculated by the controller based on received information about the user's metabolic state. In some examples, the dose is supplied in a single release. In some examples, if data received by the sensor after a first time period indicates that the metabolic state has not changed by a predicted or threshold amount, a first dose is supplied at the first time period, followed by a second dose at the second time period. In some examples, the dose size is predetermined (e.g., fixed). In these examples, the controller may supply several doses of predetermined sizes to provide a predetermined amount of one or more metabolic regulators.

[0097] In some examples, the delivery device may include two or more sources or substances, each containing a different amount of a metabolic regulator. In some examples, the two or more sources may be in liquid form, and each may be provided in its own reservoir. In some examples, the two or more sources may be in solid or semi-solid form (e.g., gel), and each may be provided in a chamber or packaging. In some examples, the two or more sources may include a first source in a first state (e.g., liquid state) and a second source in a second state (e.g., gel state).

[0098] In some examples, each of two or more sources is associated with a separate delivery mechanism, such as an aerosol generator. Alternatively, the same delivery mechanism can be used with two or more sources, as long as there is a mechanism to selectively control delivery from each source. For example, if two sources are to be aerosolized and the sources are liquids, one (or more) release mechanisms can release the liquid from one or both sources into an area adjacent to the aerosol generator. A controller can control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator by controlling delivery from two or more sources.

[0099] In some examples, the first substance contains at least one metabolic regulator, and the second substance contains no metabolic regulator or a reduced amount of at least one metabolic regulator. In these examples, the controller 120 can control the amount of at least one metabolic regulator delivered to the user by controlling the delivery from each of the first and second substances. Furthermore, by delivering a substance containing a reduced amount of the metabolic regulator or no metabolic regulator at all, in addition to a substance containing a larger amount, the user can be assured that there is no substantial difference in the total amount of substance delivered. This ensures a more consistent user experience.

[0100] In some examples, the first substance may contain at least one metabolic stimulant, and the second substance may contain at least one metabolic inhibitor. The controller can vary the amounts of the first and second substances delivered to the user to promote a desired change in the user's metabolic rate. For example, if it is desired to increase the user's metabolic rate, more metabolic stimulants than metabolic inhibitors may be provided, or if it is desired to decrease the user's metabolic rate, more metabolic inhibitors may be provided. In some examples where the delivery device is an aerosol supply device, the controller can promote a change in the user's metabolic state by controlling the amount of aerosol produced from the first reservoir and the amount of aerosol produced from the second reservoir (for example, by making the ratio of aerosols from the first reservoir greater than that from the second reservoir to promote an increase in the user's metabolic rate, and by making the ratio of aerosols from the first reservoir greater than that from the second reservoir to promote a decrease in the user's metabolic rate).

[0101] Figure 2 is a schematic graph of the user's metabolic rate over time. Three metabolic rate levels "A", "B", and "C" are shown as dashed lines in Figure 2. A metabolic rate level refers to a line (i.e., a horizontal line) representing a constant metabolic rate. Three exemplary user metabolic rate profiles "a", "b", and "c" are shown as solid lines in Figure 2. The user metabolic rate profiles illustrate examples of changes in the user's metabolic rate over time. In other words, the user metabolic rate profiles show changes in the metabolic rate of a virtual user at various points in time. As mentioned above, the controller can be configured to provide one or more metabolic regulators (i.e., metabolic stimulants and metabolic inhibitors) in amounts dependent on the user's metabolic profile, as shown by each of the exemplary metabolic rate profiles. "Providing" means that the controller can directly provide or administer a modified amount of the metabolic modifier to the user (for example, if the delivery component can deliver the metabolic modifier to the user without user interaction), or can indirectly provide or administer a modified amount of the metabolic modifier to the user (for example, if the delivery component requires user interaction to deliver the metabolic modifier to the user).

[0102] According to the second exemplary user metabolic rate profile "a", the controller can identify that the user's metabolic rate is at level "B", which may correspond to a lower threshold or lower range value. In some examples, depending on whether the controller identifies the user's metabolic rate as level "B" or is otherwise notified (e.g., by a sensor), the controller is configured to increase the amount of metabolic stimulant and / or decrease the amount of metabolic inhibitor provided to the user. In some examples, the controller is configured to continuously or repeatedly provide the increased amount of metabolic stimulant and / or the decreased amount of metabolic inhibitor until the controller identifies or is otherwise notified that the user's metabolic rate has reached or exceeded level "C". In some examples, the controller may provide a default amount of metabolic regulator when the controller identifies or is otherwise notified that the user's metabolic rate exceeds metabolic rate level "C". Level "C" may correspond to an upper threshold or upper range value.

[0103] In some examples, the controller is configured to provide an increased amount of metabolic stimulant and / or a decreased amount of metabolic inhibitor for a certain period and / or for several uses or doses, after the administrator has identified that the user's metabolic rate is at level "B". In some examples, the controller may provide an increased amount of metabolic stimulant and / or a decreased amount of metabolic inhibitor for an additional period and / or for a further number of uses or doses, if the administrator has identified that the user's metabolic rate has not increased by more than a specified percentage (e.g., a different threshold between levels "B" and "C") after providing an increased amount of metabolic stimulant and / or a decreased amount of metabolic inhibitor for a first period and / or for a first number of uses or doses. In other words, while the user's metabolic rate is below a first level, the controller may provide an increased amount of one or more metabolic stimulants to increase the user's metabolic rate and / or limit the amount of one or more metabolic inhibitors to prevent or limit the inhibitory effect on the user's metabolic rate.

[0104] According to the second exemplary user metabolic rate profile "b", the controller can identify that the user's metabolic rate is at level "C", which may correspond to an upper threshold or upper range value. In some examples, depending on whether the controller identifies the user's metabolic rate as level "C", or is otherwise notified (e.g., by a sensor), the controller is configured to decrease the amount of metabolic stimulant and / or increase the amount of metabolic inhibitor provided to the user. In some examples, the controller is configured to continuously or repeatedly provide the decreased amount of metabolic stimulant and / or the increased amount of metabolic inhibitor until the controller identifies the user's metabolic rate as reaching or below level "B", or is otherwise notified. In some examples, the controller may provide a default amount of metabolic regulator when the controller identifies, or is otherwise notified, that the user's metabolic rate exceeds metabolic rate level "B". Level "B" may correspond to a lower threshold or lower range value.

[0105] In some examples, the controller is configured to provide a reduced amount of metabolic stimulant and / or an increased amount of metabolic inhibitor for a certain period and / or several uses or doses after the administrator has identified that the user's metabolic rate is at level "C". In some examples, the controller may provide the reduced amount of metabolic stimulant and / or an increased amount of metabolic inhibitor for an additional period and / or a further number of uses or doses if the administrator has identified that the user's metabolic rate has not decreased by a specified percentage (e.g., a different threshold between levels "B" and "C") after providing the reduced amount of metabolic stimulant and / or an increased amount of metabolic inhibitor for a first period and / or a first number of uses or doses. In other words, while the user's metabolic rate is above a certain level, the controller may limit the amount of one or more metabolic stimulants to prevent or limit the stimulating effect on the user's metabolic rate, and / or provide an increased amount of one or more metabolic inhibitors to lower the user's metabolic rate.

[0106] According to the first exemplary user metabolic rate profile "c", the user's metabolic rate may start at a first level before decreasing over time toward a baseline level "A" (which may be calibrated as described above). In some examples, in response to the decrease in metabolic rate toward the baseline value "A" (e.g., falling below the first level "B") and / or the metabolic rate reaching the baseline value "A", the controller may increase the amount of metabolic stimulant and / or decrease the amount of metabolic inhibitor provided to the user. In some examples, the controller is configured to continuously or repeatedly provide increased amounts of metabolic stimulant and / or decreased amounts of metabolic inhibitor until the controller identifies or is otherwise notified that the user's metabolic rate has reached or exceeded metabolic rate level "B". In some examples, the controller is configured to provide increased amounts of metabolic stimulant and / or decreased amounts of metabolic inhibitor for a period of time and / or for several uses or doses after the administrator has identified that the user's metabolic rate is at level "A". In some examples, the controller is configured to provide an increased amount of metabolic stimulant and / or a decreasing amount of metabolic inhibitor for an additional period and / or a further number of uses or doses, if the administrator identifies that the user's metabolic rate has not increased by a specified percentage (e.g., different thresholds between levels "B" and "A") after providing an increased amount of metabolic stimulant and / or a decreasing amount for an additional period and / or a further number of uses or doses.

[0107] In some examples, the controller is configured to provide a default amount of metabolic regulator when the controller identifies, or otherwise is notified, that the user's metabolic rate exceeds metabolic rate level "B". In some examples, the controller is configured to provide an increased amount of metabolic stimulant and / or a decreased amount of metabolic inhibitor while the user's metabolic rate is above "B" but below "C", according to the function described in relation to the user's metabolic rate profile "a". In these examples, the increased amount of metabolic stimulant may be less than the amount of metabolic stimulant provided when the user's metabolic rate is below "B" but above the default amount, and / or the decreased amount of metabolic inhibitor may be greater than the amount of metabolic inhibitor provided when the user's metabolic rate is below "B" but below the default amount. In other words, while the user's metabolic rate is below a first level, the controller may provide one or more metabolic stimulants in a first increasing amount to increase the user's metabolic rate, and / or one or more metabolic inhibitors in a first decreasing amount to prevent or limit any inhibitory effect on the user's metabolic rate; and while the user's metabolic rate is above a first level but below a second level, the controller may provide one or more metabolic stimulants in a second increasing amount to increase the user's metabolic rate, and / or one or more metabolic inhibitors in a second decreasing amount to prevent or limit any inhibitory effect on the user's metabolic rate, where the second increasing amount is smaller than the first increasing amount, and the second decreasing amount is larger than the first decreasing amount.

[0108] Delivery system According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a delivery system comprises a controller configured to receive information or data regarding a user's metabolic state from at least one sensor. The controller is configured to control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator to the user in response to, or based on, information regarding the user's metabolic state. A delivery system having such a controller is operable to respond to provide a certain level of control over the user's metabolic state.

[0109] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary delivery system according to the present invention. The delivery system 100 in Figure 3 comprises a sensor device or module 110, a controller 120, and a delivery component 130. In the example of Figure 3, the sensor component 110, the controller 120, and the delivery component 130 are provided as part of a single device (for example, they comprise components that are fixedly or detachably connectable and configured to be mounted together in normal use). In some examples, one or more of the sensor component 110, the controller 120, and the delivery component 130 may be provided in or mounted on a device housing or body.

[0110] The sensor component 110 comprises at least one sensor. In some examples, the sensor component 110 includes a single sensor. In some examples, the sensor component 110 includes two or more sensors. In some examples, the two or more sensors measure at least two different physical properties. In some examples, one or more additional sensors are provided on a second physically separate sensor component (for example, two or more sensors may be provided at different locations inside or on the surface of the housing or body of the delivery system). In some examples, two or more sensors of the sensor component 110 are provided as part of the same component (for example, they may be provided on the same PCB or chip).

[0111] In some examples, at least one sensor of the sensor component 110 can output raw or unprocessed sensor readings corresponding to measurements obtained by at least one sensor. In some examples, at least one sensor of the sensor component 110 can output processed sensor readings corresponding to measurements obtained by at least one sensor. In these examples, at least one sensor can be configured to have a level of processing capability that allows them to perform any necessary processing. In some examples, measurements can be sampled or averaged to provide output sensor readings. In some examples, measurements can be transformed (possibly after sampling or averaging) to provide sensor readings (for example, voltage measurements taken by a sensor can be transformed by a sensor into heart rate measurements). If there are two or more sensors, it can be understood that each sensor can operate differently, such that a first sensor outputs raw sensor readings and a second sensor outputs raw sensor readings.

[0112] The controller 120 (e.g., a control unit, processing unit, or computing unit) is configured to receive sensor readings output by the sensor component 110 (e.g., from at least one sensor of the sensor component 110). The controller 120 is configured to receive sensor readings via either wired or wireless communication. In the system of Figure 3, wired connections are preferred (e.g., electrically connected paths formed by separate wires or conductive paths provided on a circuit board) because the wired connections may be provided substantially inside the housing or body, and as a result, the user typically does not interact with them and there is no need to provide more mechanisms to facilitate wireless connections.

[0113] The controller 120 is configured to control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator to the user. In some examples, the sensor readings include information about the user's metabolic state. In some examples, the controller 120 is configured to process the sensor readings received from the sensor component 110 to determine or establish information about the user's metabolic state. For example, the controller 120 may determine or establish information about the user's metabolic state by comparing the sensor readings to a baseline and / or converting the sensor readings to a format indicating the metabolic state.

[0114] The delivery component 130 communicates with the controller 120 by wire or wirelessly. The delivery component 130 receives commands or signals from the controller 120 and is operable to deliver at least one metabolic regulator in response to the commands or signals. In some examples, the controller 120 may issue a command or signal to the delivery component 130 when it determines that at least one metabolic regulator should be supplied to the user. In some other examples, the controller 120 may issue a command or signal to the delivery component 130 when it determines that the user has interacted with the delivery system (for example, by interacting with a user interface and / or by activating a sensor).

[0115] In some examples, such as the example shown in Figure 1, the source of the metabolic regulator is a liquid source. In other examples, the source of the metabolic regulator is a non-liquid source. For example, the source may be in a solid or semi-solid form, such as a gel. In some examples, the delivery component includes the source of the metabolic regulator. For example, the delivery system may include a cavity or chamber in which the source is housed. In some examples, the delivery component is configured to receive the source or, otherwise, to connect to a consumable containing the source. In some examples, the source may be located in a container or cartridge attached to the delivery system. In some examples, the delivery component includes a chamber or cavity for receiving the source. In some examples, the supply source itself supplies the chamber or cavity of the delivery component (for example, it can supply a liquid into the chamber or cavity, or place a solid material such as tobacco material into the chamber or cavity), while in other examples, the supply source may supply, at least partially, packaging paper, a container, or other barrier material inserted into the chamber or cavity of the delivery component (in some examples, the delivery component includes a mechanism for breaking or bypassing the barrier material to allow the supply source to come into contact with a delivery mechanism such as a heater).

[0116] In some examples, a source of metabolic regulators may contain multiple compounds that have metabolic effects on the user. For example, a source may include two or more metabolic stimulants, two or more metabolic inhibitors, or a combination of one or more metabolic stimulants and one or more metabolic inhibitors. It can be understood that a combination of two metabolic stimulants, or alternatively, two or more metabolic inhibitors, may have a greater impact on metabolic rate than a single metabolic stimulant or inhibitor. It can also be understood that a combination of a weak metabolic inhibitor and a strong metabolic stimulant, or vice versa, may reduce the effect of the metabolic regulator on the user.

[0117] In some examples, consumables including a supply source are provided with identification means, and the delivery component is configured to identify the supply source based on the identification means. In some examples, the identification means includes an RFID chip, and the delivery component is configured to read the RFID chip. In some examples, the identification means includes a physical marker or color, and the delivery component is configured to identify the physical marker or color. In some examples, the identification means includes a resistor, and the delivery component is configured to form an electrical circuit with the resistor and measure its electrical properties. In some examples, the identification means is interpreted by a user or controller 120, and the delivery component is provided with information about the identification means used by the delivery component to identify the supply source.

[0118] Identifying a source means that the delivery component can identify the type of source, the composition of the source, one or more metabolic regulators contained in the source, the amount of one or more metabolic regulators contained in the source, the intensity (i.e., concentration) of one or more metabolic regulators contained in the source, and / or the estimated effect of the source. In some examples, the delivery component communicates information about the consumables to the controller 120 based on the identification means.

[0119] In some examples, the delivery component includes a delivery mechanism for delivering metabolic regulators contained in a source to a user. In some examples, the delivery component is configured to activate a delivery mechanism for delivering metabolic regulators contained in a source to a user. For example, the delivery component may be electrically connected to a delivery mechanism for delivering metabolic regulators contained in a source to a user. In some examples, the delivery mechanism is an aerosol generator such as a heater or a vibrating mesh. In some examples, the delivery mechanism is a substance release mechanism configured to distribute a substance in response to a command. Such a substance release mechanism may be, for example, a pump or a syringe.

[0120] In some examples, a command or signal triggers the activation of a delivery mechanism during the period in which the signal is received. For example, controller 120 can control a switch that supplies power to a delivery component 130, which functions to deliver at least one metabolic regulator as long as it is powered (for example, the delivery component may include a resistance heater that generates heat when current is supplied via the heater, thereby vaporizing a solution containing at least one metabolic regulator).

[0121] In some examples, the delivery component 130 receives a signal or command from the controller 120 and determines or establishes an appropriate amount of at least one metabolic regulator to be delivered. For example, the delivery component 130 can process the signal or command to determine or estimate the amount of at least one metabolic regulator to be delivered. In contrast to the situation in the paragraph above, where the command or signal results in the activation of the delivery mechanism over the period during which the signal is received, in these examples, the command or signal may be delivered over a much shorter period than the period during which the delivery mechanism of the delivery component 130 is active. For example, the command or signal may indicate that the delivery component 130 should deliver at least one metabolic regulator, and accordingly, the delivery component 130 can formulate one of several delivery protocols or programs (for example, the delivery component may activate the delivery mechanism for 30 seconds after receiving the command or signal).

[0122] In the first example, the delivery system 100 shown in Figure 3 may be an aerosol delivery system (similar to, for example, the one described in relation to Figure 1). Such a delivery system 100 may comprise a sensor component 110 and a controller 120 in a main body portion 20, and the delivery component 130 may be provided by a cartomizer portion 130. The exemplary sensor component 110 may include one or more sensors selected from a group including a temperature sensor (for example, to measure the user's temperature when the user is holding the device), a heart rate sensor (for example, to measure the user's heart rate when the user is holding the device), and a motion sensor (for example, to measure the user's movement). If the sensor is a temperature or heart rate sensor (or other sensor that requires proximity to the user), it may be provided on a surface portion of the main body portion 20 that is expected to be covered by the user's hand when the device is grasped by the user during use. If the sensor is a motion sensor (or other sensor that does not require proximity to the user), the sensor may be provided inside the body to be better protected from damage.

[0123] In the delivery system 100 according to the first example, the sensor component 110 can measure physical properties and output sensor readings to the controller 120. The controller 120 can read and / or analyze the sensor readings to establish, determine, or estimate information about the user's metabolic state. Based on the information, the controller 120 can determine an appropriate command or signal to control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator. The controller 120 can control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator by controlling the operation of the aerosol generator of the cartomizer 30 the next time the user uses the system (for example, by pulling the device to activate the pressure sensor and / or by interacting with the user interface).

[0124] In some examples, the controller 120 can select power from multiple (continuous or discontinuous) power levels to supply an aerosol generator that can vary the amount of aerosol produced. In these examples, if the controller 120 determines that a larger amount of one or more metabolic regulators should be delivered, the controller 120 increases the power; if the controller 120 determines that a smaller amount of one or more metabolic regulators should be delivered, the controller 120 decreases the power.

[0125] In some examples, the controller 120 can change the duration for which power is supplied to the aerosol generator (for example, the duration may be the maximum duration for which power is supplied, or the duration may be a period in which power is supplied at a first level, and any power supplied after that period may be supplied at a second, lower level). In these examples, if the controller 120 determines that a larger amount of one or more metabolic regulators should be delivered, the controller 120 increases the duration. If the controller 120 determines that a smaller amount of at least one metabolic regulator should be delivered, the controller 120 decreases the duration.

[0126] In the second example, the delivery system 100 shown in Figure 3 may be an aerosol-free delivery system such as a patch or implant. The delivery system 100 according to the second example may include a sensor component 110, a controller 120, and a delivery component 130 in a single body. If the delivery system 100 is a patch, it can be provided on the user's skin so that the delivery component 130 can deliver at least one metabolic regulator transdermally. The exemplary sensor component 110 may include one or more sensors selected from a group including a temperature sensor (e.g., for measuring the user's temperature), a heart rate sensor (e.g., for measuring the user's heart rate), and a motion sensor (e.g., for measuring the user's movement).

[0127] In the delivery system 100 according to the second example, the sensor component 110 can measure physical properties and output sensor readings to the controller 120. The controller 120 can read and / or analyze the sensor readings to establish, determine, or estimate information about the user's metabolic state. Based on the information, the controller 120 can control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator (for example, by issuing appropriate commands or signals to the controller 120). The controller 120 can control the delivery of at least one metabolic regulator by controlling the operation of the delivery mechanism of the delivery component 130. For example, the delivery component 130 may include an excretion mechanism for excreting a substance containing at least one metabolic regulator into a portion of a patch adjacent to the user's skin, thereby providing it to the user transdermally.

[0128] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary delivery system according to the present invention. The delivery system 100 in Figure 4 includes a sensor component 110, a controller 120, and a delivery component 130. In the example of Figure 4, the sensor component 110 and the controller 120 are provided as part of a single device, while the delivery component 130 is a separate device or provided as part of a separate device (such a delivery component may be called a delivery device). The controller 120 is configured to communicate with the delivery component 130 via a wired or wireless connection. Preferably, the controller 120 is configured to communicate via a wireless connection to avoid wiring or similar connections that would be inconvenient for the user to connect the controller 120 to the delivery component 130.

[0129] By separating the delivery component 130 from the controller 120 and sensor component 110, the device containing one or more sensors can be miniaturized. Smaller size means that the device has less impact on the user's normal activities, allowing smaller devices to be attached to the user (e.g., as a “wearable” device). When a device containing one or more sensors is attached to the user, measurements can be made more reliable. For example, sensors are generally attached to a single location over a longer period of time, helping to determine baseline and / or changes in the user’s metabolic state.

[0130] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary delivery system according to the present invention. The delivery system 100 in Figure 5 includes a sensor component 110, a controller 120, and a delivery component 130. In the example of Figure 5, the delivery component 130 and the controller 120 are provided as part of a single device, while the sensor component 110 is a separate device or provided as part of it. The controller 120 is configured to communicate with the sensor component 110 via a wired or wireless connection. Preferably, the controller 120 is configured to communicate via a wireless connection to avoid wiring or similar connections that would be inconvenient for the user to connect the controller 120 to the sensor component 110.

[0131] By separating the sensor component 110 from the controller 120 and the delivery component 130, devices containing one or more sensors can be further miniaturized. Smaller size means that the device has less impact on the user's normal activities, allowing smaller devices to be attached to the user (e.g., as a “wearable” device). When a device containing one or more sensors is attached to a user, measurements can be made more reliable. For example, sensors are generally attached to a single location over a longer period of time, helping to determine baseline and / or changes in the user’s metabolic state.

[0132] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary delivery system according to the present invention. The delivery system 100 in Figure 6 includes a sensor component 110, a controller 120, and a delivery component 130. In the example of Figure 6, the sensor component 110, the controller 120, and the delivery component 130 are each provided by separate devices. The controller 120 is configured to communicate with the sensor component 110 and the delivery component 130 via a wired or wireless connection. Preferably, the controller 120 is configured to communicate via a wireless connection to avoid wiring or similar connections that would be inconvenient for the user to connect the controller 120 to the sensor component 110 and the delivery component 130.

[0133] By separating the sensor component 110 from the controller 120 and the delivery component 130, devices containing one or more sensors can be further miniaturized. Smaller size means that the device has less impact on the user's normal activities, allowing smaller devices to be attached to the user (e.g., as a “wearable” device). When a device containing one or more sensors is attached to a user, measurements can be made more reliable. For example, sensors are generally attached to a single location over a longer period of time, helping to determine baseline and / or changes in the user’s metabolic state. Furthermore, by separating the controller 120 from the delivery component 130, conventional computing devices such as smartphones can be programmed to provide the necessary functions for the controller 120.

[0134] Figure 7 schematically illustrates a method 700 for controlling an aspect of a delivery system according to a particular embodiment of the present disclosure. The delivery system may conform to any of the delivery systems shown in Figures 3 to 6, and thus include a sensor component 110 configured to determine the user's metabolic state, a delivery component 130 configured to deliver metabolic regulators, and a controller 120 configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of metabolic regulators accordingly.

[0135] Method 700 begins in step 710 with determining the user's metabolic state. Determining the user's metabolic state means that the sensor component 110 measures parameters or characteristics that are directly or indirectly related to the user's metabolic rate. In some examples, the sensor component 110 can perform analysis or processing on the measured parameters or characteristics, and in other examples, the sensor component 110 can store and / or transmit the measured parameters or characteristics in raw format.

[0136] Method 700 proceeds to step 720, in which information about the user's metabolic state is received. Receiving information about the user's metabolic state means that the controller 120 receives measurements from the sensor component 110 of parameters or characteristics directly or indirectly associated with the user's metabolic rate. The measurements may be in a processed or unprocessed format. For example, the transmitted measurements may be an average of several measurements.

[0137] Method 700 proceeds to step 730, which controls the delivery of the metabolic modifier accordingly. Controlling the delivery of the metabolic modifier accordingly means that the controller 120 analyzes the information received in step 720 to determine an appropriate level or amount of the metabolic modifier to be delivered and instructs or commands the delivery component 130 to deliver the appropriate level or amount of the metabolic modifier. In some examples, the delivery component 130 delivers a certain amount of the metabolic modifier substantially immediately upon receiving the instruction or command. In some examples, the delivery component 130 delivers an amount of the metabolic modifier corresponding to the instruction or command in response to user interaction with the delivery component 130.

[0138] Accordingly, a delivery system for metabolic regulators is described, comprising a sensor component 110 configured to determine the user's metabolic state, a delivery component 130 configured to deliver metabolic regulators, and a controller 120 configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of metabolic regulators accordingly.

[0139] Accordingly, a controller 120 for a delivery system for metabolic regulators is described, which is configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state from a sensor component 110 configured to determine the user's metabolic state, and to control the delivery of metabolic regulators in response thereto.

[0140] Accordingly, a delivery component 130 for a delivery system for metabolic modifiers is described, which is configured to deliver metabolic modifiers in response to information about the user's metabolic state.

[0141] Accordingly, the present invention describes a method for operating a delivery system for metabolic regulators, wherein the delivery system comprises a sensor component 110 configured to determine the user's metabolic state, a delivery component 130 configured to deliver metabolic regulators, and a controller 120 configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of metabolic regulators accordingly, the method comprising the steps of determining the user's metabolic state, receiving information about the user's metabolic state, and controlling the delivery of metabolic regulators accordingly.

[0142] Therefore, the invention also describes a means for delivering metabolic regulators, comprising: a sensor means configured to determine the user's metabolic state; a delivery means configured to deliver metabolic regulators; and a control means configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of metabolic regulators accordingly.

[0143] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations to the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations to equivalents to the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments can be utilized and modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may appropriately include, consist of, or essentially consist of, appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. A delivery system for metabolic regulators, A sensor component comprising one or more sensors for measuring two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state, A delivery component configured to deliver metabolic regulators, A controller configured to receive information regarding the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of the metabolic regulator accordingly. Equipped with, A delivery system in which two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state are used in combination to determine the user's metabolic state.

2. The delivery system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to use the received information relating to the user's metabolic state to perform a comparison with one or more comparison values ​​and to control the delivery of the metabolic regulator based on the comparison.

3. The delivery system according to claim 2, wherein the one or more comparison values ​​include at least one value selected from a group including a baseline value, a target value, a threshold value, an upper limit range value, and a lower limit range value.

4. The delivery system according to claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to establish the user's metabolic rate based on the received information relating to the user's metabolic state, and the comparison includes comparing the established metabolic rate with one or more comparison values.

5. The delivery system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to control the delivery of the metabolic regulator by determining delivery parameters for delivering the metabolic regulator, and the delivery component is configured to deliver the metabolic regulator based on the determined delivery parameters.

6. The delivery system according to claim 5, wherein the delivery component is configured to deliver a first amount of a metabolic regulator when the determined delivery parameter is a first delivery parameter, and to deliver a second amount of a metabolic regulator when the determined delivery parameter is a second delivery parameter, and the first amount is greater than the second amount.

7. The delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the delivery component is configured to deliver a substitute substance in place of the metabolic regulator, and the controller is configured to control the delivery of the substitute substance in accordance with the information relating to the user's metabolic state.

8. The delivery system according to claim 7, wherein the substitution substance is a second metabolic regulator.

9. The delivery system according to claim 8, wherein the second metabolic regulator is configured to cause a smaller change in the user's metabolic state than the first metabolic regulator.

10. The delivery system according to claim 8, wherein the metabolic regulatory factor comprises a metabolic stimulant and the second metabolic regulatory factor comprises a metabolic inhibitor.

11. The delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the delivery component comprises a reservoir for the metabolic regulator.

12. The delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the delivery component is physically separated from the sensor component.

13. The delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the controller is physically separated from the sensor component and / or the delivery component.

14. The delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sensor component comprises one or more sensors selected from the group including vibration sensors, optical sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, pressure sensors, and chemical sensors.

15. The delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the delivery component is configured to deliver the metabolic regulator during a usage event based on interaction with the user.

16. A method for operating a delivery system for metabolic regulators, wherein the delivery system comprises a sensor component having one or more sensors for measuring two or more characteristics related to a user's metabolic state, a delivery component configured to deliver metabolic regulators, and a controller configured to receive information about the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of the metabolic regulators accordingly, wherein the method is The steps include determining the user's metabolic state by using a combination of two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state, The steps include receiving information regarding the user's metabolic state, The steps include controlling the delivery of the metabolic regulator accordingly, Methods that include...

17. A controller for a delivery system for metabolic regulators, A sensor component comprising one or more sensors for measuring two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state receives information about the user's metabolic state. In response to this, the delivery of the metabolic regulator is controlled. It is configured in such a way, A controller in which the two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state are used in combination to determine the user's metabolic state.

18. A delivery component for a delivery system for metabolic regulators, configured to deliver metabolic regulators in accordance with a controller component configured to control the delivery of metabolic regulators in accordance with information about the user's metabolic state from a sensor component comprising one or more sensors for measuring two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state, wherein the two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state are used in combination to determine the user's metabolic state.

19. A means for delivering metabolic regulators, A sensor means comprising one or more sensors for measuring two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state, A delivery means configured to deliver metabolic regulators, A control means configured to receive information regarding the user's metabolic state and to control the delivery of the metabolic regulatory factor accordingly, Equipped with, A means by which the two or more characteristics related to the user's metabolic state are used in combination to determine the user's metabolic state.

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