Product use and behavior monitoring instrument

Abstract

The product usage and behavior mechanism includes a housing that forms a central compartment internally. A controller is located within the central compartment. The controller includes a connector. The connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product usage and behavior mechanism to an electronic smoking article. The electronic smoking article includes a heating element for heating a tobacco product. The electronic smoking article includes a battery. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one usage data characteristic of the smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the heating element and the battery. Local memory is configured to store at least one usage data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored usage data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 892,151 filed February 8, 2018 and U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 710,681 filed September 20, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Technology field

[0004] The present invention relates to aerosol delivery products for producing tobacco components or other substances in an inhalable form and the use thereof. The products may comprise tobacco intended for human consumption, made of tobacco, derived from tobacco, or otherwise. More specifically, the present invention relates generally to the field of electronic or electric-powered smoking products. Background Technology

[0005] Background Technology

[0006] Over the years, many smoking devices have been proposed to improve or replace smoking products that require the combustion of tobacco for use. While many of these devices are designed to provide sensations associated with smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, they do not deliver a significant amount of the incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products resulting from the combustion of tobacco. To this end, various smoking products, flavor generators, and medical inhalers have been proposed that utilize electric energy to vaporize or heat volatile substances or to attempt to provide the sensations of smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes without burning tobacco to a significant degree (e.g., "heat-not-burn" products). For example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0255702 by Griffith Jr. et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0000638 by Sebastian et al., and U.S. Patent No. 5,060,671 by Counts et al., the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference; Reference may be made to various alternative smoking products, aerosol delivery devices, and heating sources provided in the background art described in U.S. Patent No. 9,016,274 of White, U.S. Patent No. 9,078,474 of Thompson, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0060554 of Collett et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096781 of Sears et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096782 of Ampolini et al., and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0059780 of Davis et al. Additionally, reference may be made to various embodiments of products and heating configurations described in the background art sections of, for example, U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 of Counts et al. and U.S. Patent No. 8,079,371 of Robinson et al., the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.Also, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0040930 of Robinson et al. (U.S. Patent No. 9,814,268), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 0016549 of Banerjee et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0073687 of Banerjee et al. (U.S. Patent No. 9,220,301), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0065075 of Banerjee et al. (U.S. Patent No. 8,469,035), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0180082 of Banerjee et al. (U.S. Patent No. 8,617,263), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0041861 of Sebastian et al. (U.S. Patent No. 8,464,726), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. You may refer to alternative smoking products, aerosol delivery devices, and non-combustion heating generating sources provided in the background art described in 2013 / 0233329 (U.S. Patent No. 9,486,013), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0271972 by Thomas et al. (U.S. Patent No. 8,424,538), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0067360 by Conner et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0269720 by Stone et al. (U.S. Patent No. 9,345,268), U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0157052 by Ademe et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0000188 by Nordskog et al., or U.S. Patent Application No. 2017 / 0238607 by Nordskog et al.

[0007] Popular electronic or electric-powered smoking products (e.g., electronic cigarettes, E-cigarettes, etc.) (collectively referred to herein as “electronic smoking articles”) often comprise a liquid storage component for storing an aerosol precursor (e.g., aerosol forming agent, liquid smoke, etc.), a vaporization chamber having a heating coil for vaporizing the aerosol precursor within the chamber, and a battery for supplying power to the device. The aerosol precursor generally comprises a mixture of propylene glycol, glycerin, nicotine, water, and flavor. Various electronic smoking articles have a single device housing the heating element and the aerosol precursor in a single unit generally referred to as a cartomizer.

[0008] Certain tobacco products that employ electric energy to generate heat for the formation of smoke or aerosols, and specifically, certain products referred to as electronic cigarettes or electronic smoking articles, have become commercially available worldwide. Representative products that mimic many attributes of traditional types of cigarettes, cigars, or pipes are sold as follows: ACCORD® by Philip Morris Incorporated; ALPHA™, JOYE 510™, and M4™ by InnoVapor LLC; CIRRUS™ and FLING™ by White Cloud Cigarettes; COHITA™, COLIBRI™, ELITE CLASSIC™, MAGNUM™, PHANTOM™, and SENSE™ by Epuffer® International Inc.; DUOPRO™, STORM™, and VAPORKING® by Electronic Cigarettes, Inc.; EGAR™ by Egar Australia; eGo-C™ and eGo-T™ by Joyetech; ELUSION™ by Elusion UK Ltd; and EONSMOKE® by Eonsmoke LLC; GREEN SMOKE® of Green Smoke Inc. USA; GREENARETTE™ of Greenarette LLC; HALLIGAN™, HENDU™, JET™, MAXXQ™ PINK™, and PITBULL™ of Smoke Stik®; HEATBAR™ of Philip Morris International, Inc.; HYDRO IMPERIAL™ and LXE™ of Crown7; LOGIC™ and THE CUBAN™ of LOGIC Technology; LUCI® of Luciano Smokes Inc.; METRO® of Nicotek, LLC; NJOY® and ONEJOY™ of Sottera, Inc.; NO. 7™ of SS Choice LLC; PREMIUM ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE™ of PremiumEstore LLC; Ruyan America, Inc.RAPP E-MYSTICK™ of Red Dragon Products, LLC; RED DRAGON™ of Ruyan Group (Holdings) Ltd.; RUYAN® of The Smart Smoking Electronic Cigarette Company Ltd.; SMART SMOKER® of Coastline Products LLC; SMOKING EVERYWHERE® of Smoking Everywhere, Inc.; V2CIGS™ of VMR Products LLC; VAPOR NINE™ of VaporNine LLC; VAPOR4LIFE® of Vapor 4 Life, Inc.; VEPPO™ of E-CigaretteDirect, LLC; and VUSE® of RJ Reynolds Vapor Company. Other electric-powered aerosol delivery devices, and specifically, devices characterized as so-called electronic cigarettes, are trademarked BLU™; COOLER VISIONS™; DIRECT E-CIG™; DRAGONFLY™; EMIST™; EVERSMOKE™; GAMUCCI®; HYBRID FLAME™; It was sold as KNIGHT STICKS™; ROYAL BLUES™; SMOKETIP®; and SOUTH BEACH SMOKE™. In some of these electronic smoking products, when a user inhales from the electronic smoking product, an aerosol precursor is 'drawn' from the reservoir into the vaporization chamber by gravity and capillary force within the wick. The aerosol precursor is absorbed or remains on the heating element of the vaporizer and is heated until it becomes vapor. The vapor is drawn from the heated area of ​​the device, then cooled and condensed into a high-density, generally sub-micron aerosol, and then exits the device. The wick material may include any combination of silica, organic cotton, cellulose cotton rayon fibers, stainless steel, glass fibers, ceramics, and other materials having similar properties.

[0009] Currently, there are limited options for recording and understanding how people use e-cigarettes. For example, in clinical trials, most attempts employ techniques used to measure combustible tobacco use (e.g., topography), utilize video recordings of users, or attempt to ask individual users to recall how they used the device. These methods are limited because they restrict the monitored individual user to a single location. Consequently, the recording and documentation of usability occur in an "unrealistic" environment. In other words, the actions used to measure usability degrade how a person uses an e-cigarette by confining the individual user to a specific testing location rather than their regular daily location and usability. Furthermore, what "traditional topography" (e.g., under current monitoring methods) actually measures is not directly related to what occurs when a person uses an e-cigarette. In the context of e-cigarettes, traditional topography focuses on the volume and pressure of air generated during the act of taking a puff. The measuring instrument is constructed around an analog-to-digital converter that transforms puff pressure dynamics to collect and calculate pressure transducers and puff-specific and cigarette-specific summaries of puff characteristics. A topography device is positioned between the electronic smoking product and the user. This placement alters the way the user utilizes the product compared to their natural usage patterns. This interference can change how the user utilizes the product during testing and may not provide information that accurately reflects how the user consumes the product in the real world. Furthermore, when using traditional topography, the consumer / subject must sit in a laboratory setting and be tethered to the traditional topography device, which has an additional impact on product use and behavior.Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a device that can be mounted on various electronic smoking products and capable of monitoring and capturing the usability of an individual user and the electronic smoking product under normal conditions (e.g., an individual's daily usage when not being monitored). means of solving the problem

[0010] Various embodiments relate to a product use and behavior instrument and a method of using such instrument. According to a first set of embodiments, the product use and behavior instrument includes a housing that forms a central compartment inside. A controller is located within the central compartment. The controller includes a connector. The connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and behavior instrument to an electronic smoking article. The electronic smoking article includes a heating element for heating a tobacco product. The electronic smoking article includes a battery. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the heating element and the battery. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device.

[0011] According to a second set of embodiments, an electronic smoking article is described. The electronic smoking article includes a heating element for heating a tobacco product. The electronic smoking article further includes a battery. The electronic smoking article further includes a product use and behavior mechanism. The product use and behavior mechanism includes a controller. The controller includes a connector. The connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and behavior mechanism to the electronic smoking article. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the heating element and the battery. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device.

[0012] In another set of embodiments, a method for capturing at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action is described. The method includes the step of providing an electronic smoking article to a user. The electronic smoking article includes a heating element for heating a tobacco product. The electronic smoking article further includes a battery. The electronic smoking article further includes a product use and behavior mechanism. The product use and behavior mechanism includes a controller. The controller includes a connector. The connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and behavior mechanism to the electronic smoking article. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the heating element and the battery. A local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of a smoking action to a remote computing device. The controller activates the sensor circuit in response to the initiation of a smoking action. At least one use data characteristic of a smoking action is captured by the sensor circuit. At least one use data characteristic of a smoking action is stored in the local memory.

[0013] According to another set of embodiments, the product use and motion mechanism comprises a housing that forms a central compartment internally. A controller is located within the central compartment. The controller includes a first connector. The first connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and motion mechanism to a battery element of an electronic smoking article. A second connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and motion mechanism to a tank element of an electronic smoking article. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the tank and the battery element. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device.

[0014] According to another set of embodiments, an electronic smoking article is described. The electronic smoking article includes a tank element. The electronic smoking article further includes a battery element. The electronic smoking article further includes a product use and motion mechanism. The product use and motion mechanism includes a controller. The controller includes a first connector. The first connector is detachably and operably connected to the battery element. A second connector is detachably and operably connected to the tank element. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the tank and the battery element. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device.

[0015] In another set of embodiments, a method for capturing at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action is described. The method includes the step of providing an electronic smoking article to a user. The electronic smoking article includes a tank element. The electronic smoking article further includes a battery element. The electronic smoking article further includes a product use and behavior mechanism. The product use and behavior mechanism includes a controller. The controller includes a first connector. The first connector is detachably and operably connected to the battery element. A second connector is detachably and operably connected to the tank element. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the tank and the battery element. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device. A smoking action by a user is detected. The controller activates the sensor circuit. At least one use data characteristic of the smoking action is captured by the sensor circuit. At least one use data characteristic of the smoking action is stored in local memory.

[0016] These and other features, along with their configuration and mode of operation, will become apparent from the following detailed description when referring to the attached drawings, and similar elements throughout the drawings have similar reference numerals. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0017] Various embodiments relate to a product use and behavior instrument and a method of using such instrument. According to a first set of embodiments, the product use and behavior instrument includes a housing that forms a central compartment inside. A controller is located within the central compartment. The controller includes a connector. The connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and behavior instrument to an electronic smoking article. The electronic smoking article includes a heating element for heating a tobacco product. The electronic smoking article includes a battery. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the heating element and the battery. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device. According to a second set of embodiments, an electronic smoking article is described. The electronic smoking article includes a heating element for heating a tobacco product. The electronic smoking article further includes a battery. The electronic smoking article further includes a product use and behavior mechanism. The product use and behavior mechanism includes a controller. The controller includes a connector. The connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and behavior mechanism to the electronic smoking article. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the heating element and the battery. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device. In another set of embodiments, a method for capturing at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action is described. The method includes the step of providing an electronic smoking article to a user. The electronic smoking article includes a heating element for heating a tobacco product. The electronic smoking article further includes a battery. The electronic smoking article further includes a product use and behavior mechanism. The product use and behavior mechanism includes a controller. The controller includes a connector. The connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and behavior mechanism to the electronic smoking article. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the heating element and the battery. A local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of a smoking action to a remote computing device. The controller activates the sensor circuit in response to the initiation of a smoking action. At least one use data characteristic of a smoking action is captured by the sensor circuit. At least one use data characteristic of a smoking action is stored in the local memory. According to another set of embodiments, the product use and motion mechanism comprises a housing that forms a central compartment internally. A controller is located within the central compartment. The controller includes a first connector. The first connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and motion mechanism to a battery element of an electronic smoking article. A second connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the product use and motion mechanism to a tank element of an electronic smoking article. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the tank and the battery element. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device. According to another set of embodiments, an electronic smoking article is described. The electronic smoking article includes a tank element. The electronic smoking article further includes a battery element. The electronic smoking article further includes a product use and motion mechanism. The product use and motion mechanism includes a controller. The controller includes a first connector. The first connector is detachably and operably connected to the battery element. A second connector is detachably and operably connected to the tank element. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the tank and the battery element. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device. In another set of embodiments, a method for capturing at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action is described. The method includes the step of providing an electronic smoking article to a user. The electronic smoking article includes a tank element. The electronic smoking article further includes a battery element. The electronic smoking article further includes a product use and behavior mechanism. The product use and behavior mechanism includes a controller. The controller includes a first connector. The first connector is detachably and operably connected to the battery element. A second connector is detachably and operably connected to the tank element. A sensor circuit is configured to collect at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action. The smoking action is associated with the use of at least one of the tank and the battery element. Local memory is configured to store at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action. A communication interface is configured to communicate at least one stored use data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device. A smoking action by a user is detected. The controller activates the sensor circuit. At least one use data characteristic of the smoking action is captured by the sensor circuit. At least one use data characteristic of the smoking action is stored in local memory. These and other features, along with their configuration and mode of operation, will become apparent from the following detailed description when referring to the attached drawings, and similar elements throughout the drawings have similar reference numerals. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0018] Referring generally to the drawings, a product use and behavior ("PUB") mechanism is described. The PUB mechanism is configured to record various modes of use of the electronic smoking product, such as the usability of the electronic smoking product by a user and the electronic smoking product's response to such use. The PUB mechanism may also be customized to monitor a tobacco heating system ("THS") electronic smoking product that utilizes a "heat-not-burn" configuration, which heats tobacco at a lower temperature than when conventional smoking products burn, or in a manner different from heating a liquid as in conventional electronic smoking products. As is known, the PUB mechanism and the PUB for a tobacco heating system (PUB-THS) mechanism are similar in terms of the data collected and general configuration, so features described in relation to the PUB mechanism can also be implemented in the PUB-THS, and vice versa. Accordingly, unless otherwise specified, embodiments and disclosures referenced in relation to the PUB apparatus may be applied to the PUB-THS apparatus, and embodiments and disclosures referenced in relation to the PUB-THS apparatus may be applied to the PUB apparatus. Accordingly, references to the PUB apparatus include both the PUB apparatus and the PUB-THS apparatus.

[0019] As used herein, heating of an inhalable substance comprises an electronic smoking article that vaporizes a liquid, a heating element that heats a porous substrate cigarette, an electronic smoking article utilizing a precursor component within the cigarette substrate, an electronic smoking article utilizing a precursor that is heated to form an aerosol, wherein the aerosol then passes through the porous cigarette substrate, a medical device capable of heating a drug in liquid and / or solid form—the drug may be heated using any of the device arrangements described herein—to form an aerosol, and any combination thereof. In an arrangement using a porous substrate cigarette, the porous cigarette substrate may comprise a packed bed of particles of various geometries, such as, for example, a ground, milled, or powdered tobacco lamina, a tobacco monolith having air passages, a laminated (or bunched) layer of tobacco sheets, and / or other forms of cigarettes and / or reconstituted cigarettes. Exemplary arrangements using a tobacco substrate heated by an aerosolized liquid are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0335070 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0065000, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some arrangements using a precursor, the porous tobacco substrate is heated by a passing aerosol and is not heated directly by a heating element. The precursor may or may not contain nicotine and / or other tobacco derivatives. Additionally, any of the described electronic smoking articles may be configured as a "dual heating" arrangement. In these arrangements, the electronic smoking article comprises a vapor precursor (e.g., liquid) heated by a first heating element and a porous tobacco substrate located downstream of the precursor, heated by a second heating element. As is known, the heated vapor passes through the heated porous tobacco substrate.Consequently, the porous tobacco material (e.g., shred, sphere, granule, etc.) is heated by a second heating element and vapor passing through it. Additionally, the aerosol precursor may be implemented in one or both of the packed bed and the nebulization chamber of the tobacco chamber. Furthermore, the electronic smoking article described above may be configured to have dual and / or multiple heating elements.

[0020] Further examining the arrangement of using precursor components in the tobacco substrate, in some embodiments, a combustible heat source, e.g., a carbon heat source, may be used in addition to or instead of an electric heater. The combustible heat source may be located at the front end of the product (e.g., non-mouth) to provide heat downstream of the tobacco packing bed. In this arrangement, air is drawn in through the combustible heat source, heated, and transported through the tobacco bed containing the aerosol precursor. The hot air may heat the tobacco and precursor materials, vaporize the precursor, and interact with the tobacco substrate to generate vapor, which then condenses to form an aerosol. Exemplary devices utilizing a carbonaceous heat source to which various embodiments may be applied include the electronic smoking articles of Premier™ and Eclipse™ of RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company and the device described in "Chemical and Biological Studies on New Cigarette Prototypes that Heat Instead of Burn Tobacco, RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company Monograph" (1988). Other exemplary devices utilizing a combustible fuel source include the background art cited in U.S. Patent No. 4,714,082 of Banerjee et al. and U.S. Patent No. 4,771,795 of White et al., which are incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, reference may be made to smoking articles of the following types, for example: U.S. Patent No. 4,756,318 of Clearman et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,714,082 of Banerjee et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,771,795 of White et al., and U.S. Patent No. 4,793,365 of Sensabaugh et al. U.S. Patent No. 4,917,128 of Clearman et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,961,438 of Korte, U.S. Patent No. 4,966,171 of Serrano et al., U.S. Patent No. 4 of Bale et al.969,476, U.S. Patent No. 4,991,606 of Serrano et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,020,548 of Farrier et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,033,483 of Creighton et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,040,551 of Schlatter et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,050,621 of Lawson, U.S. Patent No. 5,065,776 of Nystrom et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,076,296 of Farrier et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,076,297 of Farrier et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,099,861 of Clearman et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,105,835 of Drewett et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,105,837 of Barnes et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,115,820 of Hauser et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,148,821 of Best et al. U.S. Patent No. 5,159,940 of Hayward et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,178,167 of Riggs et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,183,062 of Clearman et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,211,684 of Shannon et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,240,014 of Deevi et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,240,016 of Nichols et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,345,955 of Clearman et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,551,451 of Riggs et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,595,577 of Bensalem et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,819,751 of Barnes et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,089,857 of Matsuura et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,095,152 of Beven et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,578,584 of Beven; and Dominguez's U.S. Patent No. 6,730,832. ,

[0021] As used herein, heating of a tobacco product includes, as previously described, heating a tobacco or tobacco substrate by means of an electronic smoking article that vaporizes a liquid, a heating element that heats a porous substrate tobacco, an electronic smoking article that utilizes a precursor component within the tobacco substrate, and an electronic smoking article that utilizes a precursor to be heated to form an aerosol, wherein the aerosol then passes through the porous tobacco substrate. As is known, PUB devices and PUB-THS devices may be configured to combine, monitor, and record various electronic smoking articles that heat inhalable substances, including, for example, a medical device that heats an inhalable agent.

[0022] Generally, a PUB device can record and detect the battery activation of the electronic smoking item, battery characteristics (e.g., watts, voltage, and resistance), location (e.g., global position), orientation of the device, movement of the device, temperature of the airflow entering the electronic smoking item, and sound of the airflow entering the electronic smoking item. In relation to user usability, the PUB device can measure changes in characteristics over time periods (e.g., hourly, daily, weekly), puff behavior (e.g., number, duration, volume, interval between puffs), and user sessions (e.g., smoking and non-smoking behavior by the PUB device). Advantageously, since any PUB device is applicable to various battery tanks, battery tobacco sticks, or battery cartridges for electronic smoking items, it is configured to be retrofitted to various electronic cigarette items. As used herein, the term “tank” refers to all or part of an aerosol generating element of an electronic smoking article, comprising a cartridge, a cartomizer, a wick, an atomizer, a heating element, a substrate, a reservoir, and similar elements. As used herein, the term “tobacco stick” refers to all or part of an aerosol generating element, comprising some form of tobacco. The form of tobacco may include, for example, tobacco impregnated with a mixture of tobacco and other elements, a whole-leaf tobacco vaporizer involving the insertion of whole-leaf tobacco into a chamber (electrically heated using an element), or similar elements. In some embodiments, the electronic smoking article is a heatless delivery system utilizing mechanical atomization.

[0023] Generally, the PUB device includes a sensor array for recording product usage characteristics, on-board memory for storing collected data, an on-board rechargeable power source, a wireless (e.g., Bluetooth™) communication array for transmitting data to an external storage location, a first connector for the tank, and a second connector for the battery end. When the PUB device is installed in an electronic smoking article, data monitoring and collection may be triggered or continued by the activation and deactivation of the electronic smoking article. Upon completion of a data acquisition segment, the PUB device may synchronize with a wireless communication compatible computing device (e.g., desktop, laptop, tablet, smartphone, etc.) and upload the data to a secure database. For further analysis, the data may be exported to any statistical software package or to work summary software. As will be understood, the PUB device may be used in clinical and non-clinical studies to capture and track electronic smoking article usage data for behavioral modeling and to provide information on usage patterns.

[0024] Unlike existing clinical techniques (e.g., topography), PUB devices do not primarily utilize air movement to generate values ​​associated with puff kinetics due to the differences between combustible and electronic smoking devices. Furthermore, PUB devices do not obstruct the path between the user (or clinical trial subject) and the product, nor do they interfere with the product's normal function or the user's experience while using the electronic smoking device. Finally, PUB devices are fully portable, enabling users to use electronic smoking devices in clinics, laboratories, or outpatient settings (any location outside of a clinic or laboratory). This increases the likelihood that the device's records match the actual characteristics of electronic smoking device usage.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an unassembled PUB mechanism (100) according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The PUB mechanism (100) includes a controller (102) and a housing (104). In a specific embodiment, the housing (104) includes a first outer shroud and a second outer shroud. The PUB mechanism (100) monitors, records, and transmits a plurality of user usability data and electronic smoking device data. The PUB mechanism (100) is configured to have a shape, size, and connector that can be configured to interface without interfering with the operation of various electronic smoking devices (e.g., electronic cigarettes, pens, open and / or closed system "tank" product designs). As will be understood, the PUB mechanism (100) is durable and can be used in both controlled and restricted control environments, supervised or unsupervised, in accordance with product safety standards for mobile research equipment.

[0026] The controller (102) includes a first end connector (110), a second end connector (112), a sensor array (116), a PUB battery (118), an on-board memory (120), and an antenna (122). The controller (102) is configured to monitor, record, and store a plurality of data and characteristics of the user and the electronic smoking item. The controller (102) is configured to interface with various electronic smoking items and to have a size and connector that physically interferes with the electronic smoking item of the intended form as little as possible. The controller (102) acquires real-time data related to characteristics of individual puff behavior (e.g., number, duration, volume, interval between puffs), changes in puff characteristics moment by moment, changes in puff characteristics over time intervals, and similar information. For example, captured puff characteristics may include, but are not limited to, puff volume (ml), puff duration (s), number of puffs, number of sub-puffs, average and peak flow (ml / s), average and peak draft (ml / s), average and peak resistance, average and peak pressure drop (mmWg), interval between puffs (s), and ignition time (time lit)(s). The controller (102) may also record battery characteristics (e.g., wattage, voltage, and resistance), location, orientation of the device, movement of the device, temperature of the airflow entering the electronic smoking item, and sound of the airflow entering the electronic smoking item. The controller (102) facilitates the storage of data characteristics related to moment-by-moment user usage behavior and usage patterns during a period of product interaction (e.g., hours, days, weeks). The controller (102) and associated elements may be physically implemented on a circuit board.

[0027] The first end connector (110) includes a coupling element configured to be detachably connected to and interfacing with the battery end of the electronic smoking article. The electronic smoking article may have various "forms," ​​e.g., box style, pen style, or open system "tank" style product designs. Each of the various electronic smoking articles may have a different coupling mechanism for attaching the battery to the tank. In some embodiments, one or more PUB mechanisms (100) (e.g., modules) may be used in a single electronic smoking article. In these embodiments, the first end connector (110) may be configured to be coupled with another module PUB mechanism (100). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element of the first end connector (110) depend on the components comprising the interior of the specific electronic smoking article. Exemplary connections are described in more detail below in FIGS. 2a-4c.

[0028] The second end connector (112) includes a coupling element configured to be detachably connected to and interfacing with the tank (e.g., a reservoir of smoking material) of the electronic smoking article. The electronic smoking article may have various different "forms," ​​e.g., electronic cigarettes, pens, open-system "tank" product designs. Each of the various electronic smoking articles may have a different coupling mechanism for attaching a rechargeable battery to the tank. In some embodiments, one or more PUB devices (100) (e.g., modules) may be used in a single electronic smoking article. In these embodiments, the second end connector (112) may be configured to be coupled with another PUB device (100). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element of the second end connector (112) depend on the components comprising the interior of the specific electronic smoking article. Different connections are described in more detail below in FIGS. 2a-4c.

[0029] The on-board memory (120) is configured to store data and characteristics collected by the sensor array (116). The on-board memory (120) may be, for example, flash memory or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory ("EEPROM"). The on-board memory (120) must provide sufficient memory capacity to enable the storage of an estimated maximum data load generated during a set period, for example, a 7-day period. In some embodiments, the on-board memory (120) may be reset to a null value, and the on-board clock may be resynchronized when data is uploaded. In another embodiment, the on-board memory (120) is configured to retain all data until the on-board memory (120) reaches its capacity. The on-board memory (120) may store data in a raw data format, stamp it with time and date, and use it to determine wattage values. As can be understood, the watt value combined with the puff duration value can be used to generate the Total Particulate Matter ("TPM") constant for the estimated mouth-level exposure ("eMLE") of the aerosol measurement. Data captured by the sensor array (116) is stored in the on-board memory (120) as both discrete individual data points and part of a time and date stamped cumulative record.

[0030] The PUB battery (118) includes an on-board rechargeable battery. The PUB battery (118) may also be a rechargeable solid-state battery. The PUB battery (118) is configured to power the PUB device (100) and ensure that the performance of data collection by the PUB device (100) does not affect the performance of the battery. The PUB battery (118) must be able to maintain a charge state over the estimated maximum level of subject use. In some embodiments, the PUB battery (118) will last for at least 7 days without needing to be recharged. In some embodiments, the PUB battery (118) is recharged when the electronic smoking article battery is recharged. In other embodiments, the PUB device (100) includes a charging port on the housing (104) capable of charging the PUB battery (118). In some embodiments, the PUB device (100) does not have a PUB battery (118), and instead the PUB device (100) draws power from the battery of the electronic smoking article.

[0031] The antenna (122) is configured to transmit data so that it is collected by the sensor array (116) and stored by the on-board memory (120). The antenna (122) may be configured to upload data during the charging cycle of the electronic smoking item, during the activation of the electronic smoking item device, continuously throughout the lifespan of the electronic smoking item, or during similar triggering events. In some embodiments, the on-board memory (120) may be reset to a null value, and the on-board clock may be resynchronized when the data upload by the antenna (122) is terminated. In some embodiments, the PUB mechanism (100) may facilitate the transmission of data from the memory of the PUB mechanism (100) to a secure location (e.g., a server location) via data transmission software (e.g., a PC, iOS™, or Android™) using Bluetooth™ or other wireless communication techniques. By wirelessly transmitting data via Bluetooth™, the antenna (122) is designed to limit interference with generated aerosols as much as possible. In another embodiment, the antenna (122) has a wired interface that allows a wired connection to a secure location via data transmission software. Data security and integrity can be maintained in accordance with appropriate research data standards during transfer from the antenna (122) of the PUB organization (100) to a computer or smart device, or to a database server. In some embodiments, data hosted in a secure database may be used to communicate with a PC and / or smart device (e.g., a smartphone and / or tablet) to provide additional information to the user of the PUB organization (100).

[0032] The sensor array (116) is configured to monitor and record one or more data characteristics and user usability data of the electronic smoking product. The sensor array (116) is configured to monitor and record various user usability characteristics and data. The sensor array (116) can capture real-time data related to characteristics of an individual's usage behavior (e.g., number of puffs, duration, volume, interval between puffs), how these characteristics change moment by moment, and battery characteristics, e.g., power (e.g., wattage), how power changes moment by moment. The sensor array (116) can measure the time between when a puff ends (e.g., when the battery is deactivated) and when the next puff begins (e.g., when the battery is activated), i.e., the inter-puff interval ("IPI"). As will be understood, puff statistics captured by the sensor array (116) can be used to capture puff, rapid-puff and sub-puff counts and duration values, and IPI counts and duration values. In some embodiments, the sensor array (116) monitors and captures the activation of the battery aligned with the initiation of the puff and measures when the battery is activated to determine the puff duration. In another embodiment, the sensor array (116) may record the end of the puff when the battery is no longer activated.

[0033] In relation to an electronic smoking article, the sensor array (116) may include specific sensors for detecting battery activation, battery characteristics (e.g., wattage, voltage, current, and resistance), or the duration of battery usage (e.g., the length of a smoking session). As can be understood, data captured by the sensor array (116) is stored in the on-board memory (120) as both discrete individual data points and part of a time and date stamped cumulative record.

[0034] In some embodiments, the sensor array (116) includes hardware sensors that track the position of the electronic smoking device while it is in use. For example, a 9-axis gyroscope can capture the orientation of the PUB device (100), an accelerometer to capture the movement of the PUB device (100), a Global Positioning System ("GPS"), or other satellite navigation systems (e.g., Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou, etc.) to capture the position of the PUB device (100). In these embodiments, the position tracker(s) can be used to generate data related to the position of the electronic smoking device relative to the position of the battery-end and tank-end of the electronic smoking device. Preferably, by recording this position relationship, researchers can determine how the user is holding the electronic smoking device while performing a puff. Determining whether the user is holding the electronic smoking device while sitting in a manner similar to traditional cigarettes or while lying on a sofa with the battery tank over the device provides more information about the regular use of the electronic smoking device and can provide details regarding tank leakage and malfunctions of the electronic smoking device product.

[0035] The sensor array (116) may include a hardware sensor that detects changes in ambient temperature within the airway port of the electronic smoking item. Temperature changes may be used to identify the time at which a puff is initiated and the continuous use of the electronic smoking item. In some embodiments, the PUB device (100) may include a hardware sensor that detects the speed of movement from one location to another of the PUB device (100). In these embodiments, the linear acceleration of the PUB device (100) to identify the start of a cycle of product use is measured in relation to use / non-use. In another embodiment, the PUB device (100) may include a hardware sensor that records the frequency of sound of air passing through a dedicated airway port on the PUB device (100). In this embodiment, the use of passive acoustic measurements may provide information for understanding the general pattern of puff speed and individual puff characteristics.

[0036] The PUB device (100) may also include a hardware sensor that tracks and records events measured by other components constituting the PUB device (100). Preferably, this tracking is date and time stamped so that all recorded events form an accumulation record. For further analysis, the accumulation record can be traceable and exported to any statistical software package or task-specific summary software. In another embodiment, the PUB device (100) may receive an accumulation record processed externally via download to the PUB device (100). In this embodiment, the PUB device (100) may perform further analysis of the externally processed data or a task-specific summary. In another embodiment, the PUB device (100) performs information and feedback analysis of the accumulation record within the device. In another embodiment, the PUB device (100) may include an optical, mechanical, and / or pressure sensor to detect whether the PUB device (100) has been removed from the battery and / or tank end of an electronic smoking article.

[0037] In some embodiments, the PUB device (100) includes a toggle function on the controller (102). The toggle function may turn on, turn off, limit, or change one or more data characteristics monitored and recorded by the PUB device (100). For example, the toggle function may limit the number of uses of the electronic smoking item by limiting the total puffs generated over a specific time period (e.g., minutes / hours / days / weeks, etc.) (e.g., in terms of duration, number, or a combination of both). In another embodiment, the PUB device (100) includes a single activation button that may be used to trigger or mark an event (e.g., date / time / location) occurring during the use of the electronic smoking item. In some embodiments, the PUB device (100) includes a screen (e.g., LCD, LED, OLED, or other suitable screen) inserted into the housing (104). The screen displays the status of any event recorded or managed by the PUB device (100). The screen can also allow the user to easily adjust the data monitored and recorded by the sensor array, for example, through a toggle function. The user can use the screen to select an “off” option for one or more collected data characteristics, such as the user’s position throughout the use of the PUB mechanism (100).

[0038] The PUB device (100) may also include an identifier related to the structure and characteristics of the PUB device (100). The identifier is updateable for each user throughout the use of the PUB device (100). As understood, this allows the user to switch between clinical (e.g., data captured for third-party analysis) or non-clinical (e.g., data captured for user analysis) studies. The identifier may be integrated into a data set to enable alignment of data types from data sources (e.g., clinical, non-clinical, specific user, PUB device (100) type). Additionally, the identifier may be encoded in the PUB device (100) and may be visually apparent through an embossed portion of the housing (104) of the PUB device (100)—or by being labeled by the housing. In some embodiments, the sensor array (116) may include access control via a biometric security sensor, such as a fingerprint sensor for detecting fingerprint characteristics. In these embodiments, the use of the electronic smoking article and / or the collection of data characteristics may occur only when the fingerprint sensor captures a fingerprint from an authorized user (e.g., a user associated with a PUB device). As will be understood, the biometric security sensor may be configured to capture various biometric data (e.g., iris, voice, gait, etc.) from an authenticated user.

[0039] In certain embodiments, the PUB mechanism (100) is configured as a series of modules. A single module PUB mechanism (100) may be positioned between the battery end and the tank end of the electronic smoking article. The single module PUB mechanism (100) may be configured to monitor and record one or more data or characteristics. Multiple module PUB mechanisms (100) may be connected along the electronic smoking article to monitor and record one or more data or characteristics. As will be understood, the electronic smoking article may be customized to capture a specific subset of data and characteristics using the module PUB mechanism (100). For example, a user may use the PUB mechanism (100) to capture data characteristics but may not allow the transmission or capture of any location data. Thus, the user's electronic smoking article may include a module PUB mechanism (100) that monitors and records data or characteristics unrelated to location. In some embodiments, the PUB mechanism (100) includes a chip configured to interface on the electronic smoking article and collect at least one user data characteristic.

[0040] As will be understood, data collected by the sensor array (116) can be input into a graphic-based software program for summarizing and recognizing patterns of electronic smoking product usage over a specific time period. The software can import raw data exported from a database on a user-unit / trial-unit basis. The data can be processed to summarize and apply algorithms for calculating discrete product usage factors, product usage rates and / or patterns, and the eMLE of aerosol measurements. Within the software program, information associated with the specific electronic smoking product being evaluated (e.g., TPM data values) required to perform the analysis can be modified. Data generated by this process can be uploaded to the PUB organization (100) database. As will be understood, the imported data and exported results meet standards for data security and integrity. In another embodiment, data collected by the sensor array (116) is transmitted to task-specific summarization software.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 2a, a perspective view of an assembled electronic smoking article (202) according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The electronic smoking article (202) comprises a battery (204) and a cylindrical reservoir (206) containing a liquid or other smoking material. The battery (204) is detachably coupled to the reservoir (206) via a complementary torsion (e.g., twist) interface on the end of the battery (204) and the end of the reservoir (206). As will be understood, a user of the electronic smoking article (202) may twist the battery (204) out of the reservoir (206) to replace either component, charge the battery (204), for maintenance purposes, or for other similar operations. In some embodiments, the electronic smoking article (202) has a light-emitting diode ("LED") indicator end on the battery (204). The LED indicator end will simulate a traditional cigarette ignition end, indicating when the electronic smoking item is operating. By means of the mouth end of the reservoir (206), the user can blow or inhale into the electronic smoking item (202) while bringing air into contact with the liquid in the reservoir (206) through the battery (204) (e.g., indirectly) and eventually reaching the user's mouth end. In another embodiment, air is introduced into a heating or vaporization chamber while flowing over / around a heated wick containing liquid from the reservoir (206). The air condenses within the aerosol flowing to the mouth end, accompanied by heated vapor from the wick. In one embodiment, inhalation for inhaling air initiates the vaporization process. Alternatively, activation of a circuit closure (mechanical or optical) initiates the vaporization process.

[0042] Unlike more traditional cigarettes, the product produced by an electronic smoking article (202) is not smoke, but an aerosol or vapor resulting from the volatilization or vaporization of certain components contained therein. Inhalable substances may be found in both the particulate and vapor fractions of the aerosol. Vapor is defined as a substance that exists in a gaseous state at a temperature lower than its critical point. In an electronic smoking article, particulate matter consists of vapor condensed into small droplets. Both particles and vapor are suspended in the gases that make up the inhaled air (mostly oxygen and nitrogen). For simplification, the term “vaporized liquid” as used herein means, in this specification, vapor, gas, and particles—that is, aerosols in a form or type suitable for human inhalation—regardless of whether they are in a form that can be considered as smoke.

[0043] The reservoir (206) contains a liquid that is vaporized and delivered to the user. In some embodiments, the liquid contains a substance, e.g., nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, water, a flavoring agent, or any other suitable substance that can be used for vaporization. In certain embodiments, the liquid is a combination of nicotine, propylene glycol, and glycerin. Additionally, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or tobacco alkaloids may be produced during the heating process. The reservoir is not limited to a specific size and may be opaque or transparent so that the user can see the liquid inside.

[0044] FIG. 2b illustrates an unassembled PUB mechanism (100) and a perspective view of the electronic smoking article of FIG. 2a. As illustrated in FIG. 2b, the PUB mechanism (100) includes a first end connector (210) configured for a torsion interface with the battery (204) end of the electronic smoking article (202). The PUB mechanism further includes a second end connector (212) configured for a torsion (e.g., twist) interface with the reservoir (206) end of the electronic smoking article (202). As will be understood, the PUB mechanism (100) may include one or more of the previously described components and sensor arrays (116). Although only one PUB mechanism (100) is illustrated in FIG. 2b, in some embodiments, one or more PUB mechanisms (100) (e.g., modules) may be used in the electronic smoking article (202). In these embodiments, the first end connector (210), the second end connector (212), or both may be configured to be coupled with another PUB mechanism (100). In some embodiments, the housing (104) of the PUB mechanism (100) is modified to better fit the shape of the electronic smoking article (202). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element of the first end connector (110) depend on the component containing the interior of the electronic smoking article (202).

[0045] Referring to FIG. 2c, according to one embodiment, a perspective view of an electronic smoking article (202) assembled with a PUB device (100) (this combination is referred to herein as the “PUB delivery system”) is shown. The PUB delivery system (200) has the same overall shape and structure as the original electronic smoking article (202). The PUB device (100) has a size and shape configured to physically interfere with the intended shape of the electronic smoking article (202) to a minimum. The PUB device (100) ensures that the performance and use of the PUB delivery system (200) are substantially similar to the performance and use of the electronic smoking article (202).

[0046] Referring to FIG. 3a, a perspective view of an electronic smoking article (302) assembled according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The electronic smoking article (302) is similar to the electronic smoking article (202). The difference between the electronic smoking article (302) and the electronic smoking article (202) is that the coupling interface between the battery (304) and the storage (306) of the electronic smoking article (302) is an interlocking interface. The electronic smoking article (302) includes a battery (304) and a cylindrical storage (306) containing a liquid or other smoking material. The battery (304) is detachably coupled to the storage (306) through a complementary interlocking (e.g., snap-fit) interface on the end of the battery (304) and the end of the storage (306). As can be understood, the user of the electronic smoking item (302) may push or pull the battery (304) to snap-fit ​​into the reservoir (306) to replace any component, charge the battery (304), for maintenance purposes, or for similar operations. In some embodiments, the electronic smoking item (302) has an LED indicator end on the battery (304). The LED indicator end will simulate a traditional cigarette ignition end, indicating when the electronic smoking item is operating. By means of the mouth end of the reservoir (306), the user may blow or inhale into the electronic smoking item (302), causing air to come into contact with the liquid in the reservoir (306) through the battery (304) and eventually reach the user's mouth end. In one embodiment, inhalation for inhaling air initiates the vaporization process. Alternatively, activation of a circuit closure (mechanical or optical) initiates the vaporization process.

[0047] As previously described, the byproduct generated by the electronic smoking article (302) is not smoke, but an aerosol or vapor resulting from the volatilization or vaporization of a specific component contained therein. For example, the inhalable substance may be in substantially vapor form (i.e., a substance in gaseous form at a temperature below a critical point). Alternatively, the inhalable substance may be in the form of an aerosol (i.e., a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in gas). The reservoir (306) contains a liquid that is vaporized and delivered to the user.

[0048] FIG. 3b illustrates an unassembled PUB mechanism (100) and a perspective view of the electronic smoking article of FIG. 3a. As illustrated in FIG. 3b, the PUB mechanism (100) includes a first end connector (310) configured for mutual interfacing interface with the battery (204) end of the electronic smoking article (302). The PUB mechanism further includes a second end connector (312) configured for mutual interfacing interface with the storage end (306) of the electronic smoking article (302). As will be understood, the PUB mechanism (100) may include one or more of the previously described components and sensor arrays (116). Although only one PUB mechanism (100) is illustrated in FIG. 3b, in some embodiments, one or more PUB mechanisms (100) (e.g., modules) may be used in the electronic smoking article (302). In these embodiments, the first end connector (310), the second end connector (312), or both may be configured to be coupled. In some embodiments, the housing (104) of the PUB device (100) is modified to fit better into the shape of the electronic smoking article (302). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element of the first end connector (110) depend on the component containing the interior of the electronic smoking article (302).

[0049] Referring to FIG. 3c, according to one embodiment, a perspective view is shown of the electronic smoking article (302) of FIG. 3b assembled with the PUB device (100) (this combination is referred to herein as the "PUB delivery system" 300). The PUB delivery system (300) has the same overall shape and structure as the original electronic smoking article (302). The PUB device (100) has a size and shape configured to physically interfere minimally with the intended shape of the electronic smoking article (302). The PUB device (100) ensures that the performance and use of the PUB delivery system (300) are substantially similar to the performance and use of the electronic smoking article (302).

[0050] Referring to FIG. 4a, a perspective view of an electronic smoking article (402) assembled according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The electronic smoking article (402) is similar to the electronic smoking article (302). The difference between the electronic smoking article (402) and the electronic smoking article (302) is the configuration of the battery (404) and the reservoir (406) of the electronic smoking article (402). The electronic smoking article (402) includes a battery (404) and a cylindrical reservoir (406) containing a liquid or other smoking material. The battery (404) is detachably coupled to the reservoir (406) through a complementary mutual connection (e.g., snap-fit) interface on the end of the battery (304) and the end of the reservoir (406). As can be understood, the user of the electronic smoking item (402) may push or pull the battery (404) to snap-fit ​​into the reservoir (406) to replace any component, charge the battery (404), for maintenance purposes, or for similar operations. In some embodiments, the electronic smoking item (402) has an LED indicator end on the battery (404). The LED indicator end will simulate a traditional cigarette ignition end, indicating when the electronic smoking item is operating. By means of the mouth end of the reservoir (406), the user may blow or inhale into the electronic smoking item (402), causing air to come into contact with the liquid in the reservoir (406) through the battery (404) and eventually reach the user's mouth end. In one embodiment, inhalation for inhaling air initiates the vaporization process. Alternatively, activation of a circuit closure (mechanical or optical) initiates the vaporization process.

[0051] As previously described, the byproduct generated by the electronic smoking article (402) is not smoke, but an aerosol or vapor resulting from the volatilization or vaporization of a specific component contained therein. For example, the inhalable substance may be substantially in the form of vapor (i.e., a substance in the gaseous state at a temperature below the critical point). Alternatively, the inhalable substance may be in the form of an aerosol (i.e., a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in the gas). The reservoir (406) contains a liquid that is vaporized and delivered to the user.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 4b, an unassembled PUB device (100) and a perspective view of the electronic smoking article of FIG. 3a are illustrated according to one embodiment. The PUB device (414) is similar to the PUB device (100). The difference between the PUB device (414) and the PUB device (100) is the shape of the housing (104) and the first and second end connectors (410, 412) of the PUB device (414). As illustrated in FIG. 4b, the PUB device (414) includes a first end connector (410) configured for mutual connection interface with the battery end of the electronic smoking article (402). The PUB device further includes a second end connector (412) configured for mutual connection interface with the storage end (406) of the electronic smoking article (402). While the PUB mechanism (414) may have different forms, the PUB mechanism (100) may include one or more of the previously described components and sensor arrays (116). Although only one PUB mechanism (414) is shown in FIG. 4b, in some embodiments, one or more PUB mechanisms (414) (e.g., modules) may be used in the electronic smoking article (402). In these embodiments, the first end connector (410), the second end connector (412), or both may be configured to be coupled. In some embodiments, the housing (104) of the PUB mechanism (414) is modified to fit better into the form of the electronic smoking article (402). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element of the first end connector (110) depend on the component containing the interior of the electronic smoking article (402).

[0053] As illustrated in FIG. 4c, the electronic smoking article (402) is assembled with the PUB device (414) of FIG. 4b (a combination referred herein as the "PUB delivery system" (400)). The PUB delivery system (400) has the same overall shape and structure as the original electronic smoking article (402). The PUB device (414) has a size and shape configured to physically interfere minimally with the intended shape of the electronic smoking article (402). The PUB device (414) ensures that the performance and use of the PUB delivery system (400) are substantially similar to the performance and use of the electronic smoking article (402).

[0054] Referring to FIG. 5, a schematic flowchart illustrating a method (500) for transmitting data from a PUB delivery system (200) according to one embodiment is shown. The method (500) is described in relation to synchronizing recorded data on the PUB delivery system (200) with a user computing system (510) (e.g., laptop, tablet, desktop, mobile computing device, etc.), a security server system (512) (e.g., database, cloud storage, etc.), and a clinical computing system (514). The PUB delivery system (200) may be a PUB delivery system similar to, for example, the PUB delivery system (300, 400) of FIG. 3c and 4c or the PUB-THS delivery system (600, 700, 800) of FIG. 6c, 7c and 8c. As will be understood, the imported data and exported results meet standards for clinical data security and integrity.

[0055] The method (500) begins with a step (502) in which the PUB delivery system (200) synchronizes data stored on the on-board memory (120) of the PUB delivery system (200) with a user computing system (510) associated with the user. Data synchronization may occur using the antenna (122) of the PUB mechanism (100). For example, data synchronization may be triggered by the charging cycle of a component of the PUB delivery system (200) during the activation of the PUB delivery system (200), continuously throughout the lifetime of the PUB delivery system (200), or during a similar triggering event. In some embodiments, the PUB delivery system (200) uses data transmission software (e.g., PC, iOS). ™ , or Android ™ Bluetooth to facilitate the transmission of data from the memory of the PUB transmission system (200) to the user computing system (510) via ) ™ The technology is used. In another embodiment, the PUB delivery system (200) has a wired interface that enables a wired connection to a user computing system (510) through data transmission software.

[0056] Data synchronization may include data related to patterns of usage behavior and usability behavior over a period of product interaction by a user (e.g., hourly, daily, weekly). The PUB delivery system (200) may capture real-time data related to the characteristics of individual usage (puff) behavior (e.g., number, duration, volume, interval between puffs), how these characteristics change moment by moment, and how battery characteristics, e.g., power (e.g., wattage), change moment by moment. Using a specified and established TPM rate, a number of eMLEs of aerosols in the PUB delivery system (200) may be determined. In some embodiments, upon the conclusion of data synchronization, data stored on the on-board memory (120) may be reset to a null value and the on-board clock may be resynchronized.

[0057] In (504), data transmitted from the user computing system (510) is transmitted to the security server system (512) via a network. The network may include, for example, the Internet, a cellular network, a private cloud network, and similar infrastructure. In some embodiments, the transmission is maintained according to appropriate research data standards.

[0058] In (506), data stored on the security server system (512) is accessed by the clinical computing system (514). One or more clinical computing systems (514) may access the security data on the security server system (512). As will be understood, the data accessed by the clinical computing system (514) may be input into a graphical software program for summarizing and pattern recognition of the use of electronic smoking products (202) over a specific time period. The software may import raw data exported from a database on a user-by-user / trial basis. The data may be processed to summarize and apply algorithms for calculating discrete product usage factors, product usage rates and / or patterns, and eMLE. Within the software program, information associated with the specific electronic smoking product (202) being evaluated (e.g., TPM data values) required to perform the analysis may be modified. The data generated by this process may be uploaded to the security server system (512).

[0059] In some embodiments, data hosted in a security server system (512) may be used to communicate with a user computing system (510) to provide additional information to the PUB delivery system (200) (508). This information may include, for example, software updates for the PUB mechanism, security updates for data transmission and storage, changes to functions, additions to functions, data display to the user, statistics on user usability, additional control functions, authorized user updates, data storage updates, etc. For example, the communication may enable the PUB delivery system to monitor and capture data related to specific characteristics.

[0060] In some embodiments, the PUB device is implemented with a THS electronic smoking article (e.g., a non-combustion heated electronic cigarette) to capture usage data characteristics of smoking behavior using the THS electronic smoking article. As used herein, "PUB-THS device" refers to a PUB device configured for use with a THS electronic smoking article. Generally, a THS electronic smoking article includes a battery, a heating element, a controller, and a cavity for receiving a tobacco stick (e.g., a tobacco source). As can be understood, a THS electronic smoking article is a type of electronic smoking article. Depending on the type of THS electronic smoking article, the tobacco stick may be a removable element similar in shape and size to a traditional cigarette that can be removed after use. For example, it has a tobacco end inserted into the tobacco stick cavity and a mouth end for the user to receive the tobacco aerosol. In another embodiment, the tobacco stick is in the form of a removable tobacco that is placed adjacent to the heating element in a tobacco holder and can be removed / cleaned after use. Although THS smoking articles are described as heating tobacco elements / products in tobacco sticks using a tobacco heating element, PUB-THS devices can be used to monitor the non-combustion heating use of various smoking products and consumables. For example, PUB-THS devices can be used to monitor smoking behaviors (e.g., consumption, heating temperature, duration, etc.) and non-smoking behaviors (e.g., movement, location, rest time, etc.) of smoking articles that non-combustion heat nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabinoids, or similar non-combustion heating consumables. PUB-THS devices can also be used to monitor the non-combustion heating of various pharmaceutical products.

[0061] The heating element is configured to heat the tobacco stick to produce tobacco vapor or aerosol rather than tobacco smoke (as by combustion). As will be understood, the tobacco stick may contain little to no tobacco and may contain an alternative consumable that is heated and not burned. The heating element may surround the tobacco stick and heat, for example, the outside of the tobacco stick. Alternatively, the heating element may be inserted into the tobacco stick—for example, as a protrusion entering the tobacco stick from an inserted tobacco—and heat the tobacco surrounding the heating element. In some embodiments, both (inner and outer) configurations are implemented. Generally, the heating element heats the tobacco up to 350 It is heated to a temperature. The controller is configured to monitor and control the temperature of the heating element to ensure a consistent taste experience and avoid overheating. The generated tobacco aerosol may contain water, glycerol, and other vaporized substances present in the original tobacco mixture (e.g., flavorings). The user of the THS electronic smoking article activates / initiates the heating element to start the smoking action. In some embodiments, the user of the THS electronic smoking article may need to press a button to activate the heating element, and in another configuration, the user begins puffing the THS electronic smoking article to activate the heating element. In some embodiments, the user may activate the THS electronic smoking article via fingerprint scanning, activate a mobile application on the user device, or perform remote activation or other activation mechanisms.

[0062] Beneficially, since the PUB-THS device is applicable to various battery tanks, battery tobacco sticks, or battery cartridges for THS electronic smoking items, it is configured to be retrofitted to various THS electronic smoking items. The PUB-THS device includes one or more connectors on the end of the board or housing that allow the PUB-THS device to be attached to the THS electronic smoking item. Generally, in some embodiments, the PUB-THS device is attached to a portion of the THS electronic smoking item where airflow enters the heating chamber, thereby allowing the PUB-THS device to record the actual air passage into the heating chamber without delaying the airflow required for normal product operation. In another embodiment, the PUB-THS device is positioned between the THS electronic smoking item power source and the heating chamber. In other words, the PUB-THS device includes two connectors: a connector to the heating element portion of the THS electronic smoking item on one end, and a connector to the battery portion of the THS electronic smoking item on the opposite end. In another embodiment, the PUB-THS device may be formed to include a portion of a THS electronic smoking article of a consumable (e.g., a tobacco stick) that interacts with the user. For example, the PUB-THS device may be a shroud formed in the shape of a protrusion formed by a tobacco stick loaded into the THS electronic smoking article. In any embodiment, the components of the PUB-THS device are placed in a housing that allows the PUB-THS device to be used on various THS electronic smoking articles without causing interference with the use and / or function of the THS electronic smoking article. Additionally, the PUB-THS device includes one or more Venturi airflow chambers disposed within the internal cavity of the PUB-THS device (e.g., molded, combined, etc.) configured to enable accurate measurement of changes in air pressure and airflow by capturing pressure at both ends of a restricted portion of the Venturi tube.Alternatively, the PUB-THS apparatus may include one or more orifices (e.g., molded, coupled, etc.) placed in the internal cavity of the PUB-THS apparatus configured to enable accurate measurement of changes in air pressure and airflow by capturing pressure at both ends of a restricted portion of the orifice.

[0063] Generally, the PUB-THS device can record and detect battery activation of the THS electronic smoking item, battery characteristics (e.g., watts, voltage, and resistance), location (e.g., global position), orientation of the device, movement of the device, temperature of the airflow entering the THS electronic smoking item, and sound of the airflow entering the THS electronic smoking item. In relation to user usability, the PUB-THS device can measure specific time periods (e.g., hourly, daily, weekly), puff behavior (e.g., number, duration, volume, interval between puffs), and changes in characteristics through a user session or over a time period. Generally, the PUB-THS device includes a sensor array for recording product usage characteristics, on-board memory for storing collected data, an on-board rechargeable power source, a wireless (e.g., Bluetooth™) communication array for transmitting data to an external storage location, a first connector for the tank, and a second connector for the battery end. When the PUB-THS device is installed on a THS electronic smoking device, data monitoring and collection can be triggered or continued by the activation and deactivation of the THS electronic smoking device. Upon completion of a data acquisition segment, the PUB-THS device can synchronize with a wireless communication-compatible computing device (e.g., desktop, laptop, tablet, smartphone, etc.) and upload the data to a secure database. For further analysis, the data can be exported to any statistical software package or task-specific summary software. As understood, the PUB-THS device can be utilized in clinical and non-clinical studies to capture and track THS electronic smoking device usage data for behavioral modeling and to provide information on usage patterns.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 6a, according to an exemplary embodiment, a perspective view of a THS electronic smoking article (602) and a PUB-THS device (610) is shown as not assembled. The THS electronic smoking article (602) comprises a housing (604) having a first end (605), a second end (607), and an activation switch (609). The second end (607) comprises an airflow port (608) configured to facilitate airflow through the housing (604) of the THS electronic smoking article. The first end (605) comprises a tobacco stick cavity (not shown) for receiving a tobacco stick (606). In some embodiments, the tobacco stick (606) is a permanent structure on the housing (604) in fluid communication with the tobacco stick cavity, into which a tobacco stick or whole leaf tobacco can be inserted and heated. Air is drawn in from the airflow port (608) by the mouth end on the tobacco stick (606), travels through the THS electronic smoking item (602) and the tobacco, and is blown into or inhaled from the THS electronic smoking item (602) by the user so that it eventually reaches the user's mouth end. In one embodiment, the air inhaled through inhalation initiates a vaporization process. Alternatively, activation of a circuit closure (mechanical or optical), such as an activation switch (609), initiates the vaporization process.

[0065] The interior of the THS electronic smoking article (602) (e.g., the interior of the housing (604) and not shown) may be a circuit board, a battery, a heating element, and a tobacco stick cavity. The battery supplies power to the THS electronic smoking article (602), including the heating element. The circuit board is configured to enable, disable, and control the use of the heating element and to control other components of the THS electronic smoking article (602). The heating element may surround the tobacco stick (606) and heat the tobacco from the outside, or the heating element may be inserted into the tobacco stick (606) to heat the tobacco from the inside, or a combination of both. As another example, in some embodiments, an induction heating device may be used that may include an induction coil (or multiple induction coils) and one or more susceptors that may be positioned adjacent to the tobacco stick (606), inserted into the tobacco stick (606), and / or integrally formed with the tobacco stick (606). In some embodiments, the THS electronic smoking article (602) has an LED indicator that indicates that the heating element is active. As shown in FIG. 6a, the LED is located around an activation switch (609). The activation switch (609) allows the user to activate or deactivate the heating element and use the THS electronic smoking article (602).

[0066] As illustrated in FIG. 6a, the PUB-THS apparatus (610) comprises a housing (616) having a first end (618) and a second end (620). The second end (620) is configured to interface with the second end (607) of a THS electronic smoking article (602) via a connector. In some embodiments, the connector is part of a controller (not shown) inside the housing (616). In another embodiment, the connector is part of the housing (616). The first end (618) includes an airflow port (not shown) that is in fluid communication with the airflow port (614) of the second end (620). The second end (620) of the PUB-THPTHS apparatus (610) includes an airflow port (614) and a sensor holder (612). The airflow port (614) is in fluid communication with a Venturi tube inside the housing (616). One or more Venturi airflow chambers (not shown) may be molded into the internal cavity of the PUB-THS device (610). The use of Venturi airflow chambers enhances the ability of the PUB-THS device (610) to accurately measure changes in air pressure / airflow while the subject is using the THS. Specifically, a pressure transducer sensor of the PUB-THS device (610) can determine the airflow by measuring the change in the pressure difference across a limited portion of the Venturi tube. For example, the interval between puffs ("IPI") can be measured by recording the time between the end of a puff (airflow end) and the start of the next puff (e.g., airflow start), provided that these events occur during a time cycle in which the heating element is at a temperature and there is a consumable (e.g., cigarette) to be consumed. This data is stored and uploaded in raw data format, time and date stamped, and can be used to capture puff, rapid-puff, and sub-puff counts and duration values, as well as IPI counts and duration values.As will be understood, one or more orifices are placed inside the housing (616) to improve the ability of the PUB-THS device (610) to accurately measure changes in air pressure / airflow when the subject is using the THS.

[0067] Extending to the PUB-THS mechanism (610), the PUB-THS mechanism (610) monitors, records, and transmits multiple user usability data and THS electronic smoking device data. The PUB-THS mechanism (610) is configured to have a shape, size, and connector that can be configured to interface with the bottom of the THS electronic smoking device (602) without interfering with the operation of the THS electronic smoking device (602). As will be understood, the PUB-THS mechanism (610) is durable and can be used in both controlled and restricted control environments, supervised or unsupervised, in accordance with product safety standards for mobile research equipment. A controller is located inside the housing (616) (not shown). The controller may be similar to the controller of the PUB mechanism (100) of FIG. 1 configured to be placed in the housing (616) of the PUB-THS mechanism (610). The controller includes a sensor array, a PUB battery, on-board memory, and an antenna. The controller is configured to monitor, record, and store multiple data and characteristics of the user and the THS electronic smoking item (602). The controller interfaces with various electronic smoking items and has a size that physically interferes with the intended form of the electronic smoking item as little as possible, and in some embodiments, is configured to have a connector.

[0068] The controller acquires real-time data related to the characteristics of individual puff behavior (e.g., number, duration, volume, interval between puffs), changes in puff characteristics moment by moment, changes in puff characteristics over time intervals, and similar information. For example, captured puff characteristics may include, but are not limited to, puff volume (ml), puff duration (s), number of puffs, number of sub-puffs, average and peak flow (ml / s), average and peak draft (ml / s), average and peak resistance, average and peak pressure drop (mmWg), interval between puffs (s), and ignition time (time lit)(s). The controller may also acquire battery characteristics (e.g., wattage, voltage, and resistance), location, orientation of the device, movement of the device, temperature of the airflow entering the THS electronic smoking article (602), and sound of the airflow entering the THS electronic smoking article (602). The controller facilitates the storage of data characteristics related to moment-by-moment user usage behaviors and usage patterns over a period of product interaction (e.g., hourly, daily, or weekly). The controller and associated elements can be physically implemented on a circuit board.

[0069] On-board memory is configured to store data and characteristics collected by the sensor array. The on-board memory may be, for example, flash memory or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory ("EEPROM"). The on-board memory must provide sufficient memory capacity to enable the storage of the estimated maximum data load generated during a set period, for example, a 7-day period. In some embodiments, the on-board memory may be reset to a null value, and the on-board clock may be resynchronized when data is uploaded. In another embodiment, the on-board memory is configured to retain all data until the on-board memory reaches its capacity. The on-board memory may store data in a raw data format, stamp it with time and date, and use it to determine watt values. As can be understood, the watt value combined with the puff duration value may be used to generate the Total Particulate Matter ("TPM") constant for the estimated mouth-level exposure ("eMLE") of the aerosol measurement. Data captured by the sensor array is stored in the on-board memory (120) as both discrete individual data points and part of a time and date stamped cumulative record.

[0070] The PUB-THS battery includes an on-board rechargeable battery. The PUB-THS battery may also be a rechargeable solid-state battery. The PUB-THS battery is configured to power the PUB-THS device (610) and ensure that the performance of data collection by the PUB-THS device (610) does not affect the performance of the battery. The PUB-THS battery must be able to maintain a charge state over the estimated maximum level of subject use. In some embodiments, the PUB-THS battery will last for at least 7 days without needing to be recharged. In some embodiments, the PUB-THS battery is recharged when the THS electronic smoking article (602) battery is recharged. In other embodiments, the PUB-THS device (610) includes a charging port on a housing (616) capable of charging the PUB-THS battery. In some embodiments, the PUB-THS device (610) does not have a PUB-THS battery, and instead the PUB-THS device (610) draws power from the battery of the THS electronic smoking item (602).

[0071] The antenna is configured to transmit data collected by the sensor array and stored by the on-board memory. The antenna may be configured to upload data continuously during the charging cycle of the electronic smoking item, during the activation of the THS electronic smoking item (602), throughout the entire lifespan of the THS electronic smoking item (602), or during similar triggering events. In some embodiments, the on-board memory may be reset to a null value, and the on-board clock may be resynchronized when the data upload by the antenna is terminated. In some embodiments, the PUB-THS mechanism (100) is a wireless method (Bluetooth ™ Using ) data transmission software (e.g., PC, iOS ™ , or Android ™The transmission of data from the memory of the PUB-THS mechanism (610) to a secure location (e.g., a server location) can be facilitated through Bluetooth. ™ Alternatively, by wireless transmission of data via other wireless communication techniques, the antenna is designed to limit interference with generated aerosols as much as possible. In another embodiment, the antenna has a wired interface that allows a wired connection to a secure location via data transmission software. Data security and integrity can be maintained in accordance with appropriate research data standards during transfer from the antenna of the PUB-THS organization (610) to a computer or smart device, or to a database server. In some embodiments, data hosted in a secure database may be used to communicate with a PC and / or smart device (e.g., a smartphone and / or tablet) to provide additional information to the user of the PUB-THS organization (610).

[0072] A sensor array is configured to monitor and record one or more data characteristics and user usability data of the THS electronic smoking article (602). The sensor array is configured to monitor and record various user usability characteristics and data. The sensor array can capture real-time data related to characteristics of an individual's usage behavior (e.g., number, duration, volume, interval between puffs), how these characteristics change moment by moment, and battery characteristics, e.g., how power (e.g., wattage) changes moment by moment. The sensor array can measure the time between when a puff ends (e.g., when the battery is deactivated) and when the next puff begins (e.g., when the battery is activated), i.e., the IPI. As will be understood, puff statistics captured by the sensor array can be used to capture puff, rapid-puff, and sub-puff counts and duration values, and IPI counts and duration values. In some embodiments, the sensor array monitors and captures the activation of a battery or heating element aligned with the initiation of a puff and measures when the battery is activated to determine the puff duration. Additionally, the sensor array can capture the temperature of the heater during each puff duration. In another embodiment, the sensor array can record the end of the puff when the battery is no longer active.

[0073] In relation to the THS electronic smoking item (602), the sensor array may include specific sensors for detecting battery activation, battery characteristics (e.g., wattage, voltage, current, and resistance), or the duration of battery use (e.g., the length of a smoking session). As will be understood, data captured by the sensor array is stored in the on-board memory (120) as both discrete individual data points and part of an accumulated record stamped with time and date. As previously described, the sensor array may include pressure transducer sensors for measuring changes in pressure difference between one or more Venturi airflow chambers or orifices.

[0074] The sensor array may include a hardware sensor that detects the presence of a tobacco stick (606) in the THS electronic smoking item (602). The hardware sensor may be used to verify that a stick, whole leaf, or other form of tobacco stick (606) is properly inserted into the THS electronic smoking item (602) and properly heated by a heating element. The sensor may be configured to identify the type of consumable used in the THS electronic smoking item (602) (e.g., tobacco and non-tobacco products or specific variations thereof) and the amount of consumable. The sensor may determine the tobacco stick insertion pressure, the amount of tobacco stick (in the case of whole leaf tobacco), the duration of the load, the frequency of removal, and other interactions between the tobacco stick (606) and the THS electronic smoking item (602). The sensor array may verify that the tobacco stick is a genuine tobacco stick (e.g., whether it is approved, not a counterfeit, etc.). Such unapproved tobacco sticks may not comply with the quality, performance, and safety parameters of the original manufacturer.

[0075] In some embodiments, the sensor array includes hardware sensors that track the position of the THS electronic smoking item while it is in use. For example, a 9-axis gyroscope is used to capture the orientation of the PUB-THS device (610), an accelerometer is used to capture the movement of the PUB-THS device (610), or a GPS or other satellite navigation system is used to capture the PUB-THS device (610). In these embodiments, the position tracker(s) may be used to generate data related to the position of the THS electronic smoking item (602) regarding the positional relationship between the first end (605) and the second end (607) of the THS electronic smoking item (602). Preferably, by recording this positional relationship, a researcher can determine how the user is holding the THS electronic smoking item (602) while performing a puff. Determining whether the user is holding the THS electronic smoking item (602) while sitting in a manner similar to traditional cigarettes or while lying on a sofa with the battery over the tank can provide more information about the regular use of the THS electronic smoking item (602) and can provide details about tank leakage and malfunctions of the THS electronic smoking item product (602). Additionally, position sensor(s) can be used to track the speed at which the THS electronic smoking item (610) moves from one location to another, so that linear acceleration can be used to identify the start or end of the use of the THS electronic smoking item (602).

[0076] The sensor array may include a hardware sensor that detects changes in ambient temperature within the airway port of the THS electronic smoking item (602). Temperature changes may be used to identify the time at which a puff is initiated and the continuous use of the THS electronic smoking item (602). In some embodiments, the PUB-THS device (610) may include a hardware sensor that detects the speed of movement from one location to another within the PUB-THS device (610). In these embodiments, the linear acceleration of the PUB-THS device (610) to identify the start of a cycle of product use is measured in relation to use / non-use. In another embodiment, the PUB-THS device (610) may include a hardware sensor that records the frequency of the sound of air passing through a dedicated airway port on the PUB-THS device (610). In this embodiment, the use of passive acoustic measurements may provide information for understanding the general pattern of puff speed and individual puff characteristics.

[0077] The PUB-THS mechanism (610) may also include a hardware sensor that tracks and records events measured by other components constituting the PUB-THS mechanism (610). Preferably, this tracking is date- and time-stamped so that all recorded events form an accumulation record. For further analysis, the accumulation record can be traceable and exported to any statistical software package or task-specific summary software. In another embodiment, the PUB-THS mechanism (610) may receive externally processed accumulation records via download to the PUB-THS mechanism (610). In this embodiment, the PUB-THS mechanism (610) may perform further analysis of the externally processed data or a task-specific summary. In another embodiment, the PUB-THS mechanism (610) performs information and feedback analysis of the accumulation records within the device. In another embodiment, the PUB-THS device (610) may include an optical, mechanical, and / or pressure sensor to detect whether the PUB-THS device (610) has been removed from the battery and / or tank end of the electronic smoking article.

[0078] In some embodiments, the PUB-THS device (610) includes a toggle function on a controller. The toggle function may turn on, turn off, limit, or change one or more data characteristics monitored and recorded by the PUB-THS device (610). For example, the toggle function may limit the number of uses of the THS electronic smoking item by limiting the total puffs generated over a specific time period (e.g., minutes / hours / days / weeks, etc.) (e.g., in terms of duration, number, or a combination of both). In another embodiment, the PUB-THS device (610) includes a single activation button that may be used to trigger or mark an event (e.g., date / time / location) occurring during the use of the electronic smoking item. In some embodiments, the PUB-THS device (610) includes a screen (e.g., LCD, LED, OLED, or other suitable screen) inserted into the housing (616). The screen displays the status of any event recorded or managed by the PUB-THS device (610). The screen may also allow the user to easily adjust the data monitored and recorded by the sensor array, for example, through a toggle function. The user may use the screen to select an “off” option for one or more collected data characteristics, such as the user’s position throughout the use of the PUB-THS device (610). The toggle function may include a function to modify the wattage delivered to the heating element within the heating chamber of the THS electronic smoking item (602). Using this toggle function, the user may modify the total wattage delivered to a value less than the wattage generated by the THS battery to zero. Additionally, the toggle function may be used to track and record events measured by the PUB-THS device (610) or other components constituting the PUB-THS device (610).

[0079] The PUB-THS device (610) may also include an identifier related to the structure and characteristics of the PUB-THS device (610). The identifier is updateable for each user throughout the use of the PUB-THS device (610). As will be understood, this allows the user to switch between clinical (e.g., data captured for third-party analysis) or non-clinical (e.g., data captured for user analysis) studies. The identifier may be integrated into a data set to enable alignment of data types from data sources (e.g., clinical, non-clinical, specific user, PUB-THS device (610) type). Additionally, the identifier may be encoded in the PUB-THS device (610) and may be visually apparent through an embossed portion of the housing (616) of the PUB-THS device (610)—or by being labeled by the housing. In some embodiments, the sensor array may include access control via a biometric security sensor, such as a fingerprint sensor for detecting fingerprint characteristics. In these embodiments, the use of the THS electronic smoking item (602) and / or the collection of data characteristics may occur only when the fingerprint sensor captures a fingerprint from an authorized user (e.g., a user associated with the PUB-THS device). As will be understood, the biometric security sensor may be configured to capture various biometric data (e.g., iris, voice, gait, etc.) from an authorized user.

[0080] In a specific embodiment, the PUB-THS device (610) is configured as a series of modules. A single module PUB-THS device (610) may be positioned between the battery end and the tank end of the THS electronic smoking item (602). The single module PUB-THS device (610) may be configured to monitor and record one or more data or characteristics. Multiple module PUB-THS devices (610) may be connected along the THS electronic smoking item (602) to monitor and record one or more data or characteristics. As will be understood, the THS electronic smoking item (602) may be customized to capture a specific subset of data and characteristics using the module PUB-THS device (610). For example, a user may use the PUB-THS device (610) to capture data characteristics but may not allow the transmission or capture of any location data. Accordingly, the user's THS electronic smoking item (602) may include a module PUB-THS mechanism (610) that monitors and records location-independent data or characteristics. In some embodiments, the PUB-THS mechanism (610) includes a chip configured to interface on the THS electronic smoking item (602) and collect at least one usage data characteristic.

[0081] As will be understood, data collected by the sensor array (116) can be input into a graphical software program for summarizing and pattern recognition of THS electronic smoking product (602) usage over a specific time period. The software can import raw data exported from a database on a user-unit / trial-unit basis. The data can be processed to summarize and apply algorithms for calculating discrete product usage factors, product usage rates and / or patterns, and the eMLE of aerosol measurements. Within the software program, information associated with the specific THS electronic smoking product (602) being evaluated (e.g., TPM data values) required to perform the analysis can be modified. Data generated by this process can be uploaded to the PUB-THS organization (610) database. As will be understood, the imported data and exported results meet standards for data security and integrity. In another embodiment, data collected by the sensor array is transmitted to task-specific summarization software.

[0082] In some embodiments, the controller includes a coupling element configured to be detachably coupled to and interfacing with the airflow port (608) and the second end (607) of the THS electronic smoking article (602). Various coupling mechanisms may be used to attach the PUB-THS mechanism (610) to the THS electronic smoking article (602), for example, having a protrusion extending from the controller that interfaces with the THS electronic smoking article (602). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element depend on the components comprising the interior of a particular THS electronic smoking article. In some embodiments, the PUB-THS mechanism (610) is detachably coupled to the THS electronic smoking article (602) via a complementary mutual coupling (e.g., snap-fit) interface on the second end (620) of the PUB-THS mechanism (610) and the second end (607) of the THS electronic smoking article (602). As will be understood, the user of the PUB-THS device (610) can slide it into the THS electronic smoking item (602) to snap-fit ​​it, thereby allowing for the replacement of any component, charging of the battery, maintenance, or similar actions. Another complementary interlocking interface on the second end (620) of the PUB-THS device (610) and the second end of the THS electronic smoking item (602) may be used for, for example, a twist-fit, pressure-fit, friction-fit, overlap-fit, and similar connectivity interfaces.

[0083] FIG. 6b illustrates a perspective view of an unassembled PUB-THS device (610) and the THS electronic smoking article (602) of FIG. 6a, according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6b, the PUB-THS device (610) includes a connector on a second end (620) configured for an interlocking interface with a second end (607) of the THS electronic smoking article (602). The PUB-THS device (610) is attached to the THS electronic smoking article (602) so as to be able to record the functions and characteristics of the THS electronic smoking article (602) without obstructing the airflow required for normal function. As will be understood, the PUB-THS device (610) may include one or more of the components and sensor arrays described above. Although only one PUB-THS device (610) is illustrated in FIG. 6b, in some embodiments, one or more PUB-THS devices (610) (e.g., modules) may be used in the electronic smoking article (602). In these embodiments, additional connectors on the first end (618), the second end (620), or both ends may be configured to be coupled with another PUB-THS device (610). In some embodiments, the housing (616) of the PUB-THS device (610) is modified to fit better into the shape of the THS electronic smoking article (602). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element of the second end connector (620) depend on the components including the exterior and interior of the THS electronic smoking article (602).

[0084] Referring to FIG. 6c, a perspective view is shown of the THS electronic smoking article (602) of FIG. 6b assembled with the PUB-THS device (610) according to one embodiment (this combination is referred to herein as the "PUB-THS delivery system" (600)). The PUB-THS delivery system (600) has the same overall shape and structure as the original THS electronic smoking article (602). The PUB-THS device (610) has a size and shape configured to physically interfere with the intended shape of the THS electronic smoking article (602) to the minimum extent. The components of the PUB-THS device (610) ensure that the performance and use of the PUB-THS delivery system (600) are substantially similar to the performance and use of the THS electronic smoking article (602).

[0085] Referring to FIG. 7a, a perspective view of a THS electronic smoking article (702) assembled according to another exemplary embodiment is shown. The THS electronic smoking article (702) is similar to the THS electronic smoking article (602). As previously mentioned, the byproduct produced by the THS electronic smoking article (702) is not smoke, but an aerosol or vapor resulting from the heating of the tobacco within the tobacco stick (706). For example, the inhalable material may substantially be in the form of an aerosol (i.e., a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in a gas). The THS electronic smoking article (702) comprises a housing (704) having a first end (705), a second end (707), and an activation switch (709). The second end (707) includes an airflow port (708) configured to facilitate airflow through the housing (704) of the THS electronic smoking article (702). The first end (705) includes a cavity (not shown) for receiving a tobacco stick (706). In some embodiments, the tobacco stick (706) is a permanent structure on a housing (704) that fluidly communicates with a tobacco stick cavity into which a tobacco stick or whole leaf tobacco can be inserted and heated. Air is drawn in from an airflow port (708) by the mouth end on the tobacco stick (706), travels through the THS electronic smoking item (702) and the tobacco, and is blown into or inhaled from the THS electronic smoking item (702) by the user so that it eventually reaches the user's mouth end. In one embodiment, inhalation for drawing in air initiates the vaporization process. Alternatively, activation of a circuit closure (mechanical or optical), such as an activation switch (709), initiates the vaporization process.

[0086] Referring again to FIG. 7b, a perspective view of an unassembled PUB-THS device (610) and the THS electronic smoking article (602) of FIG. 7a is shown according to one embodiment. The PUB-THS device (710) is similar to the PUB-THS device (610) such that the internal structure of the PUB-THS device (710) (e.g., controller, sensor array, etc.) is similar or identical in form and / or function to that of the PUB-THS device (610). The difference between the PUB-THS device (710) and the PUB-THS device (610) is the shape of the housing (716) of the PUB-THS device (710), the coupling element, and the connection location of the PUB-THS device (710). As illustrated in FIG. 7b, the PUB-THS device (710) encloses a portion of the first end (705) of the THS electronic smoking article (702) and a tobacco stick (706) protruding out of the first end (705). That is, the PUB-THS device (710) includes a portion (e.g., a hollow protrusion) that fits over the location of the loaded tobacco stick and / or the location where the user interacts to consume the tobacco product, for example, in a manner similar to a shroud. The PUB-THS device (710) includes an airflow opening (714) extending from the second end (718) of the housing (716) and a protrusion (712) having a first end (720) that interfaces to be coupled with the first end (720) of the THS electronic smoking article (702).

[0087] The protrusion (712) fluidly communicates with the tobacco stick (706) so that inhalation through the airflow opening (714) is substantially similar to the consumption of a tobacco (e.g., only the THS electronic smoking article (702)) without the PUB-THS device (710) installed. Although the PUB-THS device (710) may have different shapes, the PUB-THS device (710) may include one or more of the previously described components (e.g., a controller, a sensor array, etc.). Although only one PUB-THS device (710) is shown in FIG. 7b, in some embodiments, one or more PUB-THS devices (710) (e.g., modules) may be used in the electronic smoking article (702). In these embodiments, the first end (720), the second end (718), or both may be configured to be coupled with another PUB-THS device (710). In some embodiments, the housing (716) of the PUB-THS tool (710) is modified to better fit the shape of the THS electronic smoking article (702). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element on the first end (720) and the interior of the housing (716) depend on the components comprising the interior of the THS electronic smoking article (702).

[0088] Various coupling mechanisms may be used to attach the PUB-THS device (710) to the THS electronic smoking item (702), for example, a snap-fit ​​interface on the housing (716) for interfacing with the THS electronic smoking item (702). As will be understood, the size and type of the coupling element depend on the components containing the interior of the specific THS electronic smoking item. In some embodiments, the PUB-THS device (710) is detachably coupled to the THS electronic smoking item (702) via a complementary interlocking (e.g., snap-fit) interface on the first end (720) of the PUB-THS device (710) and the first end (705) of the THS electronic smoking item (702). As will be understood, the user of the PUB-THS device (710) can push it into the THS electronic smoking item (702) to snap-fit ​​it, thereby allowing for the replacement of any component, charging of the battery, maintenance, or similar action. Another complementary interconnection interface on the first end (720) of the PUB-THS device (710) and the first end (705) of the THS electronic smoking article (702) may be used for, for example, a twist-fit, pressure-fit, friction-fit, overlap-fit ​​and similar connectivity interfaces.

[0089] As illustrated in FIG. 7c, the THS electronic smoking article (702) is assembled with the PUB-THS device (710) of FIG. 7b (a combination referred herein as the "PUB-THS delivery system" 700). The PUB-THS delivery system (700) has the same overall shape and structure as the original THS electronic smoking article (702). The PUB-THS device (710) has a size and shape configured to physically interfere minimally with the intended shape of the THS electronic smoking article (702). The components of the PUB-THS device (710) ensure that the performance and use of the PUB-THS delivery system (700) are substantially similar to the performance and use of the THS electronic smoking article (702).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 8a, a perspective view of a THS electronic smoking article (802) assembled according to another exemplary embodiment is shown. The THS electronic smoking article (802) is similar to the electronic smoking article (202) of FIG. 2a-2c. The difference between the THS electronic smoking article (802) and the electronic smoking article (202) is that a tobacco stick (806) is used on the mouth end of a heating element (805). The THS electronic smoking article (802) comprises a battery compartment (804), a heating element (805), and a cylindrical tobacco stick (806) containing tobacco or other smoking material. An airflow (808) is drawn from the battery compartment (804) and blows or inhales through the battery compartment (804), through the heating element (805) into the tobacco stick (806), and ultimately into the mouth end of the user. In some embodiments, the airflow (808) may be introduced from the side of the battery compartment (804), for example, on or adjacent to the connector (814) of the heating element (805).

[0091] The battery compartment (804) includes a battery (812), a circuit board (822), an LED indicator (820), and an activation switch (818). The circuit board (822) is powered by the battery (812) and is operably connected to the LED indicator (820), the activation switch (818), and the heating element (805). The circuit board (822) is configured to control the operation of the THS electronic smoking article (802), including the activation, temperature control, and deactivation of the heating element (805). The activation switch (818) is operably connected to the circuit board and allows the user to control the use (e.g., heating) of the THS electronic smoking article (802). In one embodiment, inhalation for drawing in air starts the heating processor. Alternatively, activation (mechanical or optical) of circuit closure starts the heating processor. As previously described, the byproduct generated by the THS electronic smoking article (802) is not smoke, but an aerosol or vapor resulting from the heating of the tobacco in the tobacco stick (806). For example, the inhalable material may substantially be in the form of an aerosol (i.e., a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in a gas). In some embodiments, the THS electronic smoking article (802) has an LED indicator (820) on the battery compartment (804). The LED indicator end will indicate when the THS electronic smoking article (802) is operating. The battery compartment (804) is detachably connected to the heating element (805) through a complementary twist (e.g., twist) interface on the connector end (816) of the battery compartment (804) and the connector end (814) of the heating element (805). As will be understood, the user of the THS electronic smoking item (802) can twist the battery compartment (804) away from the heating element (805) to replace any component, charge the battery compartment (804), perform maintenance, or take similar measures.

[0092] The tobacco stick (806) is inserted into the heating element (805) so that the heating element surrounds the tobacco stick (806). In some embodiments, the heating element (805) protrudes into the tobacco stick (806) to heat the tobacco from the inside. The mouth end on the tobacco stick (806) allows the user to blow air into or inhale the THS electronic smoking item (802), thereby allowing the user to inhale air flowing through the battery compartment (804), into the tobacco stick (806), and ultimately into the user's mouth end.

[0093] FIG. 8b shows a perspective view of the unassembled PUB-THS device (810) and THS electronic smoking article (802) of FIG. 8a. The PUB-THS device (810) is similar to the PUB-THS device (610) in terms of internal structure (e.g., controller, sensor array, etc.). The PUB-THS device (810) is similar or identical in form and / or function to the PUB-THS device (610). The difference between the PUB-THS device (810) and the PUB-THS device (610) is the housing shape of the PUB-THS device (810), which has two coupling elements and a connection location of the PUB-THS device (810) between the battery compartment (804) and the heating element (805) of the THS electronic smoking article.

[0094] The PUB-THS mechanism (810) includes a first end connector (826) configured for a torsion interface with the battery connector end (816) of the THS electronic smoking article (802). The PUB-THS mechanism (810) further includes a second end connector (824) configured for a torsion (e.g., twist) interface with the heating element connector end (814) of the THS electronic smoking article (802). As will be understood, the PUB-THS mechanism (810) may include one or more of the previously described components (e.g., a controller, a sensor array, etc.). Another complementary mutual interface on the first end connector (826) and the second end connector (824) may be used to interface with a suitable interface on the THS electronic smoking article (802), e.g., a torsion-fit, pressure-fit, friction-fit, overlap-fit, and similar connectivity interfaces. Although only one PUB-THS device (810) is shown in FIG. 8b, in some embodiments, one or more PUB-THS devices (810) (e.g., modules) may be used in the electronic smoking article (802). In some embodiments, the first end connector (826), the second end connector (824), or both ends may be configured to be coupled with another PUB-THS device (810). In some embodiments, the housing of the PUB-THS device (810) is modified to fit better into the shape of the THS electronic smoking article (802).

[0095] Referring to FIG. 8c, according to one embodiment, a perspective view is shown of the THS electronic smoking article (802) of FIG. 6b assembled with the PUB-THS apparatus (810) of FIG. 8b (this combination is referred to herein as the "PUB-THS delivery system" (800)). The PUB-THS delivery system (800) has the same overall shape and structure as the original THS electronic smoking article (802). The PUB-THS apparatus (810) has a size and shape configured to physically interfere minimally with the intended shape of the THS electronic smoking article (802). The components of the PUB-THS apparatus (810) ensure that the performance and use of the PUB-THS delivery system (800) are substantially similar to the performance and use of the THS electronic smoking article (802).

[0096] The use of the term “example” in this specification to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and / or descriptions of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to imply that such embodiments are necessarily specific or best examples). Additionally, while many embodiments describe various dimensions and connections of a PUB mechanism or a PUB-THS mechanism, it is expected that the PUB mechanism or the PUB-THS mechanism may have connection cross-sections of various target shapes and sizes.

[0097] As used herein, the terms “substantially” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the general and accepted usage by those skilled in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure belongs. Those skilled in the art reviewing this disclosure will understand that these terms are intended to enable the description of the specific features described and claimed, without limiting the scope of these features to the precise numerical range provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as meaningless or insignificant modifications or changes to the subject matter described and claimed (e.g., within plus or minus 5% of a given angle or other value) being within the scope of the invention claimed in the following claims. When used with a value, the term “approximately” means plus or minus 5% of the associated value.

[0098] As used herein, the terms “combined” and similar terms mean the combination of two members directly or indirectly. Such combination may be fixed (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., detachable or releaseable). Such combination may be achieved by two members or two members and any additional intermediate member formed integrally with each other, or by any additional intermediate member formed integrally with two members or two members.

[0099] References to the position of elements in this specification (e.g., "top," "bottom," "up," "down," etc.) are used merely to describe the orientation of various elements in the drawings. It should be noted that the orientation of various components may vary according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be included in this disclosure.

[0100] Computer-readable program code (e.g., identification code) implemented on the processing circuit includes, but is not limited to, wireless, wired, fiber optic cable, RF (Radio Frequency), etc., or any suitable combination thereof. In one embodiment, the computer-readable medium may include a combination of one or more computer-readable storage media and one or more computer-readable signal media. For example, the computer-readable program code may be propagated as an electromagnetic signal through a fiber optic cable to be executed by a processor and may be stored in a RAM storage device to be executed by a processor.

[0101] The configuration and arrangement of various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, a person skilled in the art reviewing this disclosure will understand that many modifications (e.g., changes in the size, dimensions, structure, form and proportion of various elements, values ​​of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.) are possible without substantially departing from the novel teachings and merits of the subject matter described herein. For example, an element depicted as being integrally formed may be composed of a number of parts or elements, the position of the elements may be changed in the opposite way or otherwise, and the nature or number of individual elements or positions may be changed or altered. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be changed or reordered according to alternative embodiments. Furthermore, features from a particular embodiment may be combined with features of another embodiment that will be understood by a person skilled in the art. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of various embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0102] Furthermore, it is understood that the formats and symbols employed are provided to describe the logical steps of the schematic diagram and do not limit the scope of the method exemplified by the diagram. Various arrow and line types may be used in the schematic diagram, but it is understood that they do not limit the scope of the corresponding method. In practice, some arrows or other connectors may be used solely to indicate the logical flow of the method. For example, arrows may indicate unspecified waiting or monitoring periods between the enumerated steps of the illustrated method. Additionally, the order in which a particular method occurs may not strictly follow or adhere to the order of the corresponding steps illustrated. Furthermore, each block of the block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks of the block diagram and / or flowchart, may be implemented by a special-purpose hardware-based system or a combination of special-purpose hardware and program code that performs special functions or operations.

Claims

Claim 1 An apparatus for use with an electronic smoking item, comprising: a housing forming a compartment inside; a controller located within the compartment of the housing, wherein the controller comprises: a connector configured to operably and detachably connect the apparatus to each of the battery element and consumable of the electronic smoking item; and a biometric security sensor configured to capture biometric data when the apparatus is connected to the electronic smoking item and to enable the electronic smoking item to be used only when the biometric data belongs to an authorized user. Claim 2 A mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the consumable comprises a tank element, and the connector is a first connector configured to operably and detachably connect the mechanism to the battery element of the electronic smoking article. Claim 3 A mechanism according to paragraph 2, wherein the housing comprises a first housing end and a second housing end disposed far from the first housing end, the compartment of the housing is disposed between the first housing end and the second housing end, the first connector is disposed adjacent to the first housing end, and the second connector is disposed adjacent to the second housing end. Claim 4 A mechanism according to paragraph 3, wherein the first connector and the second connector are torsion coupling members or press coupling members. Claim 5 In claim 1, the electronic smoking article further comprises a consumable including a heating element and a tobacco stack, wherein the heating element is configured to heat a tobacco stick insertable into the heating element, protrudes away from the battery element and includes a mouth end, and the connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the mechanism to the heating element so as to be accessible to the mouth end. Claim 6 In claim 1, the apparatus comprises a fingerprint sensor configured to capture biometric data including fingerprint features, wherein the biometric security sensor comprises a fingerprint sensor. Claim 7 The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a sensor circuit configured to collect at least one data characteristic of a smoking action when the apparatus is coupled to the electronic smoking article, wherein the smoking action is associated with the use of the electronic smoking article; and a local memory configured to store at least one usage data characteristic of the smoking action. Claim 8 In claim 7, the apparatus further comprises a communication interface configured to transmit at least one stored data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device. Claim 9 In claim 7, the apparatus is further configured such that the biometric security sensor activates the sensor circuit to collect at least one user data characteristic only when the biometric data belongs to an authorized user. Claim 10 In claim 7, at least one usage data characteristic of the smoking operation includes a first usage data characteristic and a second usage data characteristic, and the apparatus further includes an airflow port that passes airflow, wherein the first usage data characteristic includes a sound frequency of air passing through the airflow port, and the sound frequency of the air is used to determine a second usage data characteristic including a puff speed. Claim 11 In claim 7, the apparatus is configured such that the sensor circuit detects a smoking action by a change in ambient temperature within the apparatus, and when the smoking action is detected, it initiates the collection of at least one usage data characteristic of the smoking action. Claim 12 In claim 1, the apparatus comprises a controller configured to include a toggle function that limits the total puffs of an electronic smoking product during a specific period. Claim 13 A method for operating an electronic smoking product, the method comprising: providing a mechanism comprising a controller including a connector and a biometric security sensor, wherein the connector is configured to operably and detachably connect the mechanism to each of the battery element and consumable of the electronic smoking product; and, when the mechanism is connected to the electronic smoking product using the connector by the mechanism, capturing biometric data with the biometric security sensor; and, enabling the use of the electronic smoking product only when the biometric data belongs to an authorized user. Claim 14 In paragraph 13, the biometric security sensor comprises a fingerprint sensor, and the step of capturing biometric data includes capturing fingerprint characteristics, and the use of the electronic smoking article is activated only when said fingerprint characteristics belong to an authorized user. Claim 15 In claim 13, the apparatus further comprises a sensor circuit and a local memory, and the method also comprises: a step of collecting at least one use data characteristic of a smoking action using the sensor circuit when the apparatus is coupled to an electronic smoking article, wherein the smoking action is associated with the use of the electronic smoking article; and a step of storing at least one use data characteristic of the smoking action in the local memory. Claim 16 In paragraph 15, the above apparatus further comprises a communication interface, and the method also comprises the step of transmitting at least one stored usage data characteristic of the smoking action to a remote computing device through the communication interface. Claim 17 In claim 15, the method further comprises the step of activating the sensor circuit to collect the at least one user data characteristic only when the biometric data belongs to an authorized user. Claim 18 In claim 15, the apparatus further comprises an airflow port for passing airflow, and the step of collecting at least one usage data characteristic of the smoking operation comprises: collecting a first usage data characteristic including the frequency of the sound of the air passing through the airflow port; and determining a second usage data characteristic including the puff speed using the frequency of the sound of the air. Claim 19 In claim 15, the method further comprises a sensor circuit that detects the smoking action by a change in ambient temperature within the apparatus, and the collection of usage data characteristics of the smoking action begins when the smoking action is detected. Claim 20 In paragraph 13, the above apparatus further comprises a toggle function, and the method further comprises limiting the total puffs of an electronic smoking product for a specific period through the toggle function.

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