Estimation of steady-state resistance for overheating protection of nicotine-free electronic cigarette devices

Abstract

The present invention relates to a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device and method for protecting the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device from overheating and drying puffs based on steady-state resistance prediction. The nicotine-free electronic cigarette device comprises a storage unit holding a nicotine-free vapor preparation that is nicotine-free and includes at least one nicotine-free compound; a heating element configured to heat the nicotine-free vapor preparation drawn from the storage unit; and a control circuit configured to monitor the resistance value of the heating element over a first period after a first application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device, determine an estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element using a trained neural network based on the monitored resistance value, and control power to the heating element based on the estimated steady-state resistance value.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system, device, method and / or non-transient computer-readable medium related to estimating and / or predicting steady-state resistance for a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (or nicotine-free electronic vaping device) in order to prevent overheating of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (or nicotine-free electronic vaping device). Background Technology

[0002] Non-nicotine electronic vaping devices (non-nicotine electronic vaping devices, non-nicotine EVDs, non-nicotine vaping devices, non-nicotine vapor generators, etc.) generate non-nicotine vapor by heating a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation (such as a liquid, solid, and / or gel formulation comprising, but not limited to, water, beads, solvent, active ingredient, ethanol, plant extract, natural or artificial flavoring, and / or at least one non-nicotine former such as glycerin and propylene glycol) delivered by a wick to a heater (e.g., a resistance heating coil, an induction heater, etc.) by heating said pre-vapor formulation to non-nicotine vapor, wherein the heater heats said pre-vapor formulation to a desired temperature (e.g., 100°C to 200°C) Heating is performed to cause the nicotine-free vapor preparation to evaporate into nicotine-free vapor. However, when the amount of nicotine-free vapor preparation stored in the nicotine cartridge, reservoir, nicotine pod, etc., of the nicotine electronic cigarette device begins to run low, the wick may begin to dry out (e.g., the wick is not completely wet, or the wick does not completely absorb the nicotine-free vapor preparation), which may cause the heater to overheat the wick and / or the nicotine-free vapor preparation. For example, overheating of the wick and / or the nicotine-free vapor preparation may introduce a "burnt taste," "sour taste," and / or "bitter taste" into the nicotine vapor inhaled by an adult smoker. These phenomena may be referred to as "dry puff" and / or "dry wick" events. The problem to be solved

[0003] Various exemplary embodiments relate to a system, device, method, and / or non-transient computer-readable medium for detecting a dry puff event based on an estimated steady-state resistance value of a heater of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device. means of solving the problem

[0004] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (EVD) may include: a storage unit holding a nicotine-free vapor preparation that is nicotine-free and contains at least one nicotine-free compound; a heating element configured to heat the nicotine-free vapor preparation drawn from the storage unit; and a control circuit. The control circuit is configured to monitor the resistance value of the heating element over a first period after a first application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD, determine an estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element using a trained neural network based on the monitored resistance value, and control power to the heating element based on the estimated steady-state resistance value.

[0005] Some exemplary embodiments of the above nicotine-free EVD provide that the control circuit is also configured to detect a dry puff state in the nicotine-free EVD based on the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element, and to deactivate power to the heating element in response to the detected dry puff state.

[0006] Some exemplary embodiments of the above nicotine-free EVD provide that the control circuit is also configured to prevent power from being applied to a heating element in response to detecting a second application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD.

[0007] Some exemplary embodiments of the above-described nicotine-free EVD provide that the control circuit is configured to monitor the resistance value of the heating element by determining the peak resistance value of the heating element during the first period and determining at least one additional resistance value of the heating element after the peak resistance value determined during the first period. The control circuit may also be configured to determine the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element by estimating the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element using the trained neural network based on the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value.

[0008] Some exemplary embodiments of the above-described nicotine-free EVD provide a function-fitting network configured such that the trained neural network receives the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value as input values, determines attenuation from the input values ​​over the first period, and outputs the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the result of the determined attenuation from the resistance value of the heating element over the first period.

[0009] Some exemplary embodiments of the above nicotine-free EVD provide that the peak resistance value is determined at the point when the power applied to the heating element is stopped after the first application of the sound pressure to the above nicotine-free EVD.

[0010] Some exemplary embodiments of the above-described nicotine-free EVD provide that the at least one additional resistance value includes at least a second resistance value and a third resistance value, wherein the second resistance value is determined after the point in time when the peak resistance is determined and before the third resistance value is determined, and the third resistance value is determined after the point in time when the second resistance value is determined and before detecting the second application of the sound pressure.

[0011] Some exemplary embodiments of the above nicotine-free EVD provide that the heating element is connected to a Wheatstone bridge circuit, and the control circuit is also configured to detect a variable resistance value corresponding to the heating element over the first period and to detect a resistance value corresponding to the Wheatstone bridge circuit over the first period, and to estimate the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element using the trained neural network based on the detected variable resistance value corresponding to the heating element and the detected resistance value corresponding to the Wheatstone bridge circuit.

[0012] Some exemplary embodiments of the above-described nicotine-free EVD provide that the nicotine-free vapor pre-preparation comprises a nicotine-free vapor-forming agent and at least one nicotine-free compound.

[0013] Some exemplary embodiments of the above nicotine-free EVD provide that the at least one nicotine-free compound is cannabis, at least one cannabis-derived component, or both cannabis and at least one cannabis-derived component.

[0014] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a method of operating a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (EVD) comprises: a control circuit of the nicotine-free EVD monitoring the resistance value of a heating element that heats a nicotine-free vapor preparation containing at least one nicotine-free compound that is nicotine-free and drawn from a storage unit of the nicotine-free EVD over a first period after a first application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD; the control circuit determining an estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the monitored resistance value using a trained neural network; and the control circuit controlling power to the heating element based on the estimated steady-state resistance value.

[0015] In some exemplary embodiments, the method may further include: detecting a dry puff state in the nicotine-free EVD based on the estimated steady-state resistance of the heating element using the control circuit; and deactivating power to the heating element in response to the detected dry puff state using the control circuit.

[0016] In some exemplary embodiments, the method may include detecting a second application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD using the control circuit; and preventing power from being applied to the heating element in response to detecting the second application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD using the control circuit.

[0017] In some exemplary embodiments, monitoring the resistance value of the heating element comprises determining the peak resistance value of the heating element during the first period; and determining at least one additional resistance value of the heating element at a point in time after the peak resistance value determined during the first period. Determining the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element comprises estimating the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element using the trained neural network based on the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value.

[0018] In some exemplary embodiments, the trained neural network is a function-fitting network, and the method further comprises: receiving the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value as input values ​​using the control circuit; determining the attenuation at the resistance value of the heating element over the first period using the control circuit; and outputting the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the result of the determined attenuation at the resistance value of the heating element over the first period.

[0019] In some exemplary embodiments, the peak resistance value is determined at the point when the power applied to the heating element is interrupted after the first application of the sound pressure to the nicotine-free EVD.

[0020] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one additional resistance value includes at least a second resistance value and a third resistance value, the second resistance value is determined after the peak resistance is determined and before the third resistance value is determined, and the third resistance value is determined after the second resistance value is determined and before the second application of the sound pressure is detected.

[0021] In some exemplary embodiments, the method may further include: using the control circuit to detect a variable resistance value corresponding to the heating element during the first period; using the control circuit to detect a resistance value corresponding to the Wheatstone bridge over the first period; and using the trained neural network to estimate the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the detected variable resistance value corresponding to the heating element and the detected resistance value corresponding to the Wheatstone bridge circuit.

[0022] In some exemplary embodiments, the nicotine-free vapor pre-formulation comprises a nicotine-free vapor-forming agent and at least one nicotine-free compound.

[0023] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one nicotine-free compound is cannabis, at least one cannabis-derived component, or both cannabis and at least one cannabis-derived component.

[0024] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (EVD) may comprise: a storage unit containing a nicotine-free vapor preparation that is nicotine-free and contains at least one nicotine-free compound; a heating element configured to heat the nicotine-free vapor preparation drawn from the storage unit; a heater resistance monitor circuit configured to determine a peak resistance value of the heating element during a first period after a first application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD and to determine at least one additional resistance value of the heating element during the first period; a trained neural network configured to estimate a steady-state resistance value of the heating element during the first period based on the determined peak resistance value and the determined at least one additional resistance value; and a control circuit configured to deactivate power to the heating element based on the estimated steady-state resistance value.

[0025] In some exemplary embodiments, the trained neural network is also configured to detect a dry puff state in the nicotine-free EVD based on the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element, and the control circuit is also configured to disable power to the heating element in response to the detected dry puff state.

[0026] In some exemplary embodiments, the trained neural network is a function fitting network configured to receive the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value as input values, determine the attenuation of the input values ​​over the first period, and output the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the result of the determined attenuation at the resistance value of the heating element over the first period.

[0027] In some exemplary embodiments, the peak resistance value is determined at the point when the power applied to the heating element is interrupted after the first negative pressure is applied to the nicotine-free EVD.

[0028] In some exemplary embodiments, the nicotine-free vapor pre-formulation comprises a nicotine-free vapor-forming agent and at least one nicotine-free compound.

[0029] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one nicotine-free compound is cannabis, at least one cannabis-derived component, or both cannabis and at least one cannabis-derived component. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0030] The various features and benefits of the non-limiting embodiments of this specification may become more apparent from a detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the claims. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the accompanying drawings are not to be considered to scale. Various dimensions in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a nicotine-free electronic vaping or nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example of a device system including an exemplary nicotine-free electronic cigarette device body connected to an exemplary nicotine-free pod system according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 3a and 3b are block diagrams showing various elements of an exemplary heater resistance monitor circuit for a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to some exemplary embodiments. FIGS. 4a to 4c are drawings showing a neural network for predicting the resistance value of a heating element of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 5 is a graph corresponding to the resistance value of a heating element of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device during a single puff event according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating a reduction in resistance according to a single puff event according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIGS. 7a and 7b are flowcharts illustrating a method for detecting a dry puff event using the steady-state resistance value of a heating element of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. It should be noted that these drawings are intended to illustrate the general characteristics of the methods and / or structures used in specific exemplary embodiments and to supplement the description provided below. However, these drawings are not to scale and may not accurately reflect the precise structural or performance characteristics of any given exemplary embodiment, and should not be construed as defining or limiting the range of attributes or values ​​included in the exemplary embodiments. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0031] Some exemplary embodiments are disclosed in detail in this specification. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed in this specification are provided only for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments. However, exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0032] Accordingly, exemplary embodiments may have various modifications and alternative forms, but exemplary embodiments are illustrated by the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit exemplary embodiments to the specific forms disclosed, and that exemplary embodiments encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout the description of the drawings.

[0033] When an element or layer is referred to as "on," "connected," "combined," or "covering" another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, combined with, attached to, adjacent to, or covering the other element or layer, or intermediate elements or layers may exist. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly on," "directly connected," or "directly combined" with respect to another element or layer, it should be understood that no intermediate elements or layers exist. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combination and non-combination of one or more of the listed items.

[0034] Although terms such as first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various elements, regions, layers, and / or sections in the present invention, it should be understood that these elements, regions, layers, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another element, region, layer, or section. Accordingly, the first element, first region, first layer, or first section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, second region, second layer, or second section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0035] Spatially relative terms (e.g., "below," "under," "lower," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used for convenience of description to explain the relationship between one element or feature and another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the drawings. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to include not only the orientations illustrated in the drawings but also other orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is inverted, elements described as "below" or "under" other elements or features will be oriented "above" other elements or features. Accordingly, the term "below" may include both upper and lower orientations. The device may be oriented differently (rotated 90 degrees or in a different orientation), and spatially relative descriptive terms used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0036] The terms used herein are merely for describing various exemplary embodiments and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. Singular expressions or expressions where singularity is not specified, as used herein, are intended to include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. When terms such as “comprising,” “comprising,” “comprising,” and / or “comprising” are used herein, it will be understood that they specify the presence of the mentioned features, components, steps, operations, and / or elements, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0037] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views schematically illustrating idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, the form may vary, for example, as a result of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Accordingly, exemplary embodiments of the invention are not limited to the form of the illustrated area but also include variations in form that occur during the manufacturing process.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. Furthermore, terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with that meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a non-nicotine e-vaping device according to at least one exemplary embodiment, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto and the non-nicotine e-vaping device may take other forms. Referring to FIG. 1, the non-nicotine e-vaping device (60) comprises a device body (10) configured to accommodate a non-nicotine pod assembly (30) (e.g., a non-nicotine e-vaping cartridge, etc.). The non-nicotine pod assembly (30) is a modular article configured to hold a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation and may be replaceable. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation is a substance or a combination of substances that can be converted into non-nicotine vapor.

[0040] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a flavoring compound (one or more flavorants) and / or a nicotine-free compound may be included in the nicotine-free vapor preform. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free vapor preform is a liquid, solid, dispersion, and / or gel formulation comprising, but not limited to, water, beads, a solvent, an active ingredient, ethanol, a plant extract, a natural or artificial flavor, and / or one or more nicotine-free vapor formers such as glycerin and polyethylene glycol.

[0041] Nicotine-free compounds do not contain nicotine. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free compound does not contain tobacco and is not a compound derived from tobacco. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free compound may be a cannabinoid or may include a component derived from one or more cannabinoids. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cannabinoid-derived component may include one or more cannabis-derived cannabinoids (e.g., phytocannabinoids or cannabinoids synthesized by cannabis plants), one or more cannabis-derived terpenes, one or more cannabis-derived flavonoids, or a combination thereof.

[0042] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free compound is in the form of a solid, semi-solid, gel, hydrogel, or a combination thereof, or is contained therein, and the nicotine-free compound is infused, co-mingled, or combined with a nicotine-free vapor preparation. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free compound may be in the form of a liquid or partial liquid comprising an extract, oil, tincture, suspension, dispersion, colloid, alcohol, general specific gravity (weakly acidic or slightly basic) solution, or a combination thereof, or is contained therein, and may be infused, co-mingled, or combined with a nicotine-free vapor preparation. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free compound is a component of the nicotine-free vapor preparation. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free vapor preparation is a dispersion, suspension, gel, hydrogel, colloid, or a combination thereof, and the nicotine-free compound is a component of the nicotine-free vapor preparation.

[0043] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free compound undergoes a slow, natural decarboxylation process over a long period of time at low temperatures, including room temperature (72°F) or below. In at least one exemplary embodiment, when the nicotine-free compound is exposed to an elevated temperature, particularly about 175°F or higher, for a given time (minutes or hours, at a relatively low pressure such as 1 atmosphere), the nicotine-free compound may undergo a significantly high decarboxylation process with more than 50% decarboxylation, and may occur rapidly or immediately at potentially high decarboxylation rates (more than 50%) at higher temperatures (about 240°F or higher), and further increases in temperature may degrade some or all of the chemical properties of the nicotine-free compound.

[0044] In at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more nicotine-free vaporizing agents of the nicotine-free vaporizing agent comprise diols (e.g., propylene glycol and / or 1,3-propanediol), glycerin, and combinations or sub-combinations thereof. Various amounts of nicotine-free vaporizing agents may be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, one or more nicotine-free vaporizing agents may be included in an amount of about 20% to about 90% by weight based on the weight of the nicotine-free vaporizing agent (e.g., the nicotine-free vaporizing agent may be included in a range of about 50% to 80%, or about 55% to 75%, or about 60% to 70% by weight, etc.). As another example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free vapor pre-preparation may comprise a diol and glycerin in a weight ratio of diol to glycerin in the range of about 1:4 to 4:1, where the diol may be propylene glycol, or 1,3-propanediol, or a combination thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, this ratio may be about 3:2. Other amounts or ranges may be used.

[0045] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free vaporizer comprises water. Various amounts of water may be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, water may be included in an amount of about 5% by weight to about 40% by weight based on the weight of the nicotine-free vaporizer, or about 10% by weight to about 15% by weight based on the weight of the nicotine-free vaporizer. It may be included in other amounts or by weight. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the remainder of the nicotine-free vaporizer that is not water (and the portion that is not a nicotine compound and / or flavoring agent) is a nicotine-free vaporizer (as described above), wherein the nicotine-free vaporizer is 30% to 70% by weight of propylene glycol, and the balance of the nicotine-free vaporizer is glycerin. It may be included in other amounts or weight parts.

[0046] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free vapor pre-preparation may contain one or more flavoring agents in an amount of about 0.2% to about 15% by weight (e.g., the flavoring agent may be 1% to 125%, or 2% to 10%, or 5% to 8% by weight). In at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more flavoring agents include a volatile cannabis flavor compound (flavonoid). In at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more flavoring agents may include a flavor compound instead of or in addition to the cannabis flavor compound. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more flavoring agents may be at least one of a natural flavoring agent, an artificial flavoring agent, or a combination of a natural flavoring agent and an artificial flavoring agent. For example, one or more flavoring agents may include menthol, wintergreen, peppermint, cinnamon, clove, combinations thereof and / or extracts thereof. In addition, flavoring agents may be included to provide herbal, fruit, nut, alcoholic, roasted, mint, savory, combinations thereof, and other desired flavors.

[0047] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free compound may be a medicinal plant or a naturally occurring component of a plant having a medically accepted therapeutic effect. The medicinal plant may be a cannabis plant, and the component may be one or more cannabis-derived components. Cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids) are an example of cannabis-derived components, and cannabinoids interact with receptors in the body to produce a wide range of effects. As a result, cannabinoids have been used for various medical purposes. Cannabis-derived materials may include leaf and / or flower materials of one or more cannabis plant species or extracts derived from one or more cannabis plant species. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more cannabis plant species is Cannabis sativa ( Cannabis sativa ), Cannabis Indica( Cannabis indica ), and cannabis ruderalis ( Cannabis ruderalis It may include ). In some exemplary embodiments, the nicotine-free vapor pre-preparation comprises a mixture of 60-80% (e.g., 70%) of cannabis sativa and 20-40% (e.g., 30%) of cannabis indica and / or a mixture of cannabis-derived ingredients derived therefrom.

[0048] Examples of cannabis-derived cannabinoids include tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBL). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is a precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) is a precursor of cannabidiol (CBD). Tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA) and cannabidiol acid (CBDA) can be converted into tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively, through heating. In at least one exemplary embodiment, heat from a heater (60) causes decarboxylation to convert tetrahydrocannabinol acid (TCHA) of a nicotine-free vapor pre-preparation into tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and / or convert cannabidiol acid (CBDA) of a nicotine-free vapor pre-preparation into cannabidiol (CBD).

[0049] If both tetrahydrocannabinol (THCA) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are present in a nicotine-free vapor preparation, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion will cause a decrease in tetrahydrocannabinol (THCA) and an increase in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While heating the nicotine-free vapor preparation for vaporization, at least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of tetrahydrocannabinol (THCA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) through the decarboxylation process. Similarly, if both cannabidiol (CBDA) and cannabidiol (CBD) are present in a nicotine-free vapor preparation, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion will cause a decrease in cannabidiol (CBDA) and an increase in cannabidiol (CBD). While heating the nicotine-free vapor pre-preparation for vaporization, at least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of cannabidiol acid (CBDA) can be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) through a decarboxylation process.

[0050] Nicotine-free vapor pre-preparations may include nicotine-free compounds that provide medically recognized therapeutic effects (e.g., treatment of pain, nausea, epilepsy, and mental disorders). For details on therapeutic methods, see U.S. Application No. 15 / 845,501, filed December 18, 2017, Title of Invention " VAPORIZING DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING A COMPOUND USING THE SAME This can be verified in ", the entirety of which is incorporated into this specification by reference.

[0051] Referring again to FIG. 1, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the device body (10) includes a front cover (104), a frame (106), and a rear cover (108). The front cover (104), the frame (106), and the rear cover (108) form a device housing that encloses mechanical elements, electronic elements, and / or circuits related to the operation of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60). For example, the device housing of the device body (10) may enclose a power source configured to supply power to the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60), which may include supplying current to the pod assembly (30). Additionally, when assembled, the front cover (104), the frame (106), and the rear cover (108) may constitute most of the visible portion of the device body (10), but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0052] The front cover (104) (e.g., the first cover) defines a primary opening configured to accommodate a bezel structure (112). The bezel structure (112) defines a through hole (150) configured to accommodate a pod assembly (30).

[0053] The front cover (104) also defines a secondary opening configured to accommodate a light guide arrangement. The secondary opening may resemble a slot (e.g., a segment slot), but may have a different shape depending on the shape of the light guide arrangement. In an exemplary embodiment, the light guide arrangement includes a light guide lens (116). Additionally, the front cover (104) defines a tertiary opening and a quaternary opening configured to accommodate a first button (118) and a second button (120). Each of the tertiary opening and the quaternary opening may resemble a rounded square, but may have a different shape depending on the shape of the buttons. The first button housing (122) is configured to expose a first button lens (124), and the second button housing (123) is configured to expose a second button lens (126).

[0054] The operation of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) can be controlled by a first button (118) and a second button (120). For example, the first button (118) may be a power button and the second button (120) may be an intensity button. It should be understood that although two buttons are shown in the drawing in relation to the light guide device, more (or fewer) buttons may be provided depending on the available functions and the desired user interface.

[0055] The frame (106) (e.g., base frame) is a central support structure of the device body (10) (and the entire nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60)). The frame (106) may be referred to as a chassis. The frame (106) includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a pair of side sections between the proximal end and the distal end. The proximal end and the distal end may also be referred to as the downstream end and the upstream end, respectively. As used herein, "proximal" (and conversely "distal") is related to an adult smoker, and "downstream" (and conversely "upstream") is related to the flow of nicotine-free vapor. For additional durability and stability, a bridging section may be provided between the opposing inner surfaces of the side sections (e.g., about halfway along the length of the frame (106)). The frame (106) can be formed integrally to become a monolithic structure.

[0056] The rear cover (108) (e.g., a second cover) also defines an opening configured to accommodate a bezel structure (112). The front cover (104) and the rear cover (108) may be configured to be fastened to the frame (106) via a snap-fit ​​arrangement.

[0057] The device body (10) also includes a mouthpiece (102). The mouthpiece (102) may be fixed to the proximal end of the frame (106). Additionally, at least one end of the mouthpiece (102) may include a plurality of air outlets (not shown) so that nicotine vapor generated by the nicotine electronic cigarette device (60) can be drawn.

[0058] The distal end of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) includes a port (110) (e.g., a mini-USB connector, etc.). The port (110) is configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a mini-USB cable, USB cable, power cable, etc.) to charge a power supply (e.g., power source, battery, etc.) (not shown) within the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) may be configured to receive current from a wireless power source (e.g., a wireless charging pad, etc.). Additionally, the port (110) may be configured to transmit and / or receive data to and from another nicotine-free electronic cigarette device or other electronic device (e.g., a phone, tablet, computer, etc.) (e.g., via a mini-USB cable, USB cable, etc.). Additionally, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) may be configured to communicate wirelessly with other electronic devices, such as telephones, tablets, computers, servers, kiosks, wireless beacons, VR / AR devices, etc., through application software (apps) installed on said electronic devices (e.g., nicotine-free electronic cigarette device applications). In such cases, an adult smoker may control the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) through the app or otherwise interface with it (e.g., checking the location of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60), checking status information of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device and / or nicotine-free pod assembly, changing operating parameters, locking / unlocking the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60), etc.).

[0059] A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) includes a nicotine-free pod assembly (30) configured to hold a nicotine-free vapor preparation. The nicotine-free pod assembly (30) may be removable (e.g., replaceable) or permanently attached to the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) and refillable with a nicotine-free vapor preparation. The nicotine-free pod assembly (30) has an upstream end (facing the light guide device) and a downstream end (facing the mouthpiece (102)). In non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the upstream end is a surface on the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) opposite to the downstream end. The nicotine-free pod assembly (30) includes a connector module (not shown) disposed within the nicotine-free pod body and exposed by an opening at the upstream end. The external face of the connector module includes at least one electrical contact. At least one electrical contact may include a plurality of power contacts configured to be electrically connected to at least one power contact (not shown) of the device body (10) (e.g., at least one power contact of the port (110), etc.). Additionally, at least one electrical contact of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) includes a plurality of data contacts. The plurality of data contacts of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) are configured to be electrically connected to a data contact (not shown) of the device body (10) (e.g., at least one power contact of the port (110), etc.).

[0060] The nicotine-free pod assembly (30) may include a storage unit (not shown) configured to hold a nicotine-free vapor preservative within the assembly. The storage unit may be configured to hermetic seal the nicotine-free vapor preservative until the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) is activated to release the nicotine-free vapor preservative. As a result of the hermetic seal, the nicotine-free vapor preservative may be isolated from the environment as well as from internal elements of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) that may potentially react with the nicotine-free vapor preservative, thereby reducing or preventing the possibility of adverse effects on the shelf life and / or sensory characteristics (e.g., flavor) of the nicotine-free vapor preservative. The nicotine-free pod assembly (30) may also include a structure configured to activate the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) and, after activation, receive and heat the nicotine-free vapor preservative released from the storage unit.

[0061] The nicotine-free pod assembly (30) may be manually activated by an adult smoker before inserting the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) into the device body (10). Additionally, the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) may be activated as part of being inserted into the device body (10). In an exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free pod body includes a perforator (e.g., a pin, etc.) configured to release a nicotine vapor pre-preparation from a reservoir during the activation of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30).

[0062] As described, the device body (10) and the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) include mechanical elements, electronic elements and / or circuits associated with the operation of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60). For example, the nicotine-free pod assembly (60) may include mechanical elements configured to operate to release a nicotine vapor preparation from a sealed reservoir. The nicotine-free pod assembly (60) may also have a mechanical structure (aspect) configured to be fastened to the device body (10) to facilitate the insertion and seating of the pod assembly (30).

[0063] Additionally, the pod assembly (30) may be a "smart pod" comprising electronic elements and / or circuits configured to store, receive, and / or transmit information to / from the device body (10). This information may be used to certify that the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) can be used with the device body (10) (e.g., to reduce and / or prevent the use of unauthorized / modified / counterfeit nicotine-free pod assemblies). Additionally, this information may be used to identify the type of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30), which correlates with a vaping profile based on the identified type. The vaping profile may be designed to set general parameters for heating the nicotine-free vapor preparation and may be subject to adjustment, improvement, or other adjustment for an adult smoker before and / or during nicotine smoking.

[0064] The nicotine-free pod assembly (30) may also communicate other information that may be related to the operation of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) with the device body (10). Examples of such information may include the level of the nicotine vapor pre-preparation of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) and / or the time elapsed since the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) was inserted into the device body (10) and activated.

[0065] The device body (10) may include mechanical elements (e.g., complementary structures) configured to secure, fix, and / or activate the nicotine-free pod assembly (30). Additionally, the device body (10) may include electronic elements and / or circuits configured to receive current to charge internal power, and the internal power is configured to supply power to the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) during nicotine-free smoking. Additionally, the device body (10) may include electronic elements and / or circuits configured to communicate with the nicotine-free pod assembly (30), other nicotine-free electronic cigarette devices, nicotine electronic cigarette devices, other electronic devices (e.g., telephones, tablets, computers, etc.), and / or adult smokers.

[0066] The device body (10) may also include a device electric connector (not shown) configured to be electrically connected to a nicotine-free pod assembly (30) and supply power from the device body (10) to the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) through the device electric connector during nicotine-free electronic smoking. Additionally, data may be transmitted to and / or received from the device body (10) and the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) through the device electric connector.

[0067] In some exemplary embodiments, the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) may include a wick (not shown) configured to deliver a nicotine-free vapor preparation to a heater (not shown). The heater is configured to heat the nicotine-free vapor preparation during nicotine smoking to generate nicotine-free vapor. The heater is electrically connected to at least one electrical contact of a long-acting electrical connector. In exemplary embodiments, the heater includes a folded heating element, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. In such cases, the wick may have a planar form configured to be secured by the folded heating element, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. When the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) is assembled, the wick is configured to be in fluid communication with the absorbent material so that the nicotine-free vapor preparation, which may be within the absorbent material (when the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) is activated), can be delivered to the wick via capillary action. In this specification, the heater may also be referred to as a heating engine or a heating coil.

[0068] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the wick may be a fiber pad or other structure having pores / gaps designed for capillary action. Additionally, the wick may be rectangular, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, the heater is configured to perform Joule heating (also called ohmic / resistance heating) when current is applied. More specifically, the heater may be composed of at least one conductor and configured to generate heat when current passes through it. The current may be supplied from a power supply (e.g., power source, battery, etc.) within the device body (00) and is delivered to the heater through power contacts.

[0070] Heaters and associated structures are described in detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 729,909, "Folded Heater For Electronic Vaping Device" (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000371-US), filed on October 11, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0071] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example of a device system including an exemplary nicotine-free electronic cigarette device body connected to an exemplary nicotine-free pod system according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0072] The device system (2100) includes a controller (2105), a power supply (2110), an actuator control (2115), a nicotine-free pod electrical / data interface (2120), a device sensor (2125), an input / output (I / O) interface (2130), a vaper indicator (2135), at least one antenna (2140), an on-product control (2150), a storage medium (2145), and / or a heater resistance monitor circuit (3000). However, the device system (2100) is not limited to the features shown in FIG. 2 and may include more or fewer components.

[0073] The controller (2105) may be hardware, firmware, hardware execution software, or any combination thereof. When the controller (2105) is hardware, such existing hardware may include one or more central processing units (CPUs), microprocessors, processor cores, multiprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and computers configured as special-purpose machines to perform the functions of the controller (2105). CPUs, microprocessors, processor cores, multiprocessors, DSPs, ASICs, and FPGAs may generally be referred to as processing devices.

[0074] Where the controller (2105) is a processor that executes software or includes such a processor, in order to perform the function of the controller (2105), the controller (2105) may be configured as a special-purpose machine (e.g., a processing unit) for executing software stored in memory accessible by the controller (2105) (e.g., a storage medium (2145) or another storage device). The software may be implemented as program code containing instructions for performing and / or controlling any or all operations described herein as performed by the controller (2105).

[0075] As disclosed herein, the terms “storage medium,” “computer-readable storage medium,” or “non-transient computer-readable storage medium” may refer to one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic disk storage medium, optical storage medium, flash memory device, and / or other types of machine-readable media for storing information. The term “computer-readable medium” may include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media capable of storing, containing, or carrying instruction(s) and / or data.

[0076] According to an exemplary embodiment, the controller (2105) may include at least one microprocessor, etc. Additionally, the controller (2105) may include an input / output interface such as a GPIO (General Purpose Input / Output), an I2C (Inter-integrated circuit) interface, a SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface Bus) interface, etc.; a multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and / or a digital-to-analog converter (DAC); and / or a clock input terminal. However, the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this example. For example, the controller (2105) may further include an arithmetic circuit or circuits.

[0077] Returning to Fig. 2, the controller (2105) communicates with a power supply (2110), an actuator control unit (2115), a nicotine-free pod electrical / data interface (2120), a device sensor (2125), an input / output (I / O) interface (2130), a smoking indicator (2135), an on-product control unit (2150), and at least one antenna (2140).

[0078] The controller (2105) may also communicate with the non-volatile memory (NVM) (2205b), heater resistance monitor circuit (3000), and / or nicotine pod sensor (2200) within the nicotine pod assembly (30) via the nicotine pod electrical / data interface (2120) and the body electrical / data interface (2210). According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the NVM (2205b) may be an encryption coprocessor and a non-volatile memory package (CC-NVM) (not shown), but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. More specifically, the controller (2105) may use encryption to authenticate the nicotine pod assembly (30). As described, the controller (2105) communicates with the NVM or CS-NVM package to authenticate the nicotine pod assembly (30). More specifically, the non-volatile memory may be coded with product and other information for authentication during manufacturing.

[0079] When the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) is inserted into the device body (10), the memory device may be coded with an electronic ID to allow at least one of the authentication of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) and the pairing of operating parameters specific to the type of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) (or physical configuration such as a heating engine type). In addition to the authentication based on the electronic ID of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30), the controller (2105) may authorize the use of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) based on the expiration date of the stored nicotine vapor preparation and / or heater encoded in the non-volatile memory of the NVM or CC-NVM. If the controller (2015) determines that the expiration date encoded in the non-volatile memory has passed, the controller (2015) may deactivate the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) without authorizing the use of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30).

[0080] The controller (2105) (or storage medium (2145)) stores key material and proprietary algorithm software for encryption. For example, the encryption algorithm relies on the use of random numbers. The security of such an algorithm depends on how random these numbers actually are. These numbers are typically generated in advance and coded into a processor or memory device. An exemplary embodiment may increase the randomness of the numbers used for encryption by using vapor drawing parameters (e.g., duration of nicotine-free vapor inhalation, interval between nicotine-free vapor inhalations, or a combination thereof) to generate numbers that are more random than the pre-generated random numbers and vary more between individual numbers. All communication between the controller (2105) and the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) may be encrypted.

[0081] The controller (2105) may also include a cryptographic accelerator that enables the resources of the controller (2105) to perform functions other than encoding and decoding related to authentication. The controller (2105) may also include other security features, such as preventing unauthorized use of the communication channel and preventing unauthorized access to data when a nicotine-free pod or adult smoker is not authenticated.

[0082] In addition to the encryption accelerator, the controller (2105) may include other hardware accelerators. For example, the controller (2105) may include a floating-point unit (FPU), a separate DSP core, a digital filter, and a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) module.

[0083] The controller (2105) is configured to operate a real-time operating system (RTOS) and control the device system (2100), and can be updated via communication with an NVM or CC-NVM, or when the device system (2100) is connected to another device (e.g., a smartphone) via an I / O interface (2130) and / or an antenna (2140). The I / O interface (2130) and the antenna (2140) allow the device system (2100) to be connected to various external devices such as smartphones, tablets, and PCs. For example, the I / O interface (2130) may include a micro USB connector, but is not limited thereto. The micro USB connector may be used by the device system (2100) to charge the power (2110b).

[0084] The controller (2105) may include onboard RAM and flash memory for storing and executing code, as well as for analysis, diagnosis, and software upgrades. Alternatively, a storage medium (2145) may store the code. Additionally, in another exemplary embodiment, the storage medium (2145) may be mounted on the controller (2105).

[0085] The controller (2105) may further include an onboard clock module, a reset module, and a power management module to reduce the area covered by the PCB in the device body.

[0086] The device sensor (2125) may include a plurality of sensor transducers that provide measurement information to the controller (2105). The device sensor (2125) may include a power supply temperature sensor, an external nicotine-free pod temperature sensor, a current sensor for a heater, a power supply current sensor, an airflow sensor, and an accelerometer that monitors movement and direction. The power supply temperature sensor and the external nicotine-free pod temperature sensor may be a thermistor or a thermocouple, and the current sensor for a heater and the power supply current sensor may be a resistance-based sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure current. The airflow sensor may be another type of sensor configured to measure airflow, such as a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or a hot-wire anemometer. Additionally, instead of measuring the airflow using a flow sensor included in the device sensor (2125) of the device system (2100) of the device body (100), or in addition, the airflow may be measured using one or more sensors located in the nicotine-free pod assembly (30).

[0087] Data generated from one or more of the device sensors (2125) can be sampled at a sample rate appropriate for the parameters being measured using individual multi-channel analog-to-digital converters (ADCs).

[0088] The controller (2105) can adjust the heater profile and other profiles for the nicotine-free vapor pre-formulation based on measurement information received from the controller (2105). For convenience, these are generally referred to as smoking or vapor profiles. The heater profile identifies the power profile to be supplied to the heater for a few seconds when nicotine-free vapor drawing occurs. For example, the heater profile may deliver maximum power to the heater when vapor drawing begins, but may immediately reduce the power to half or one-fourth after a predetermined time (e.g., about 1 second). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the modulation of the power supplied to the heater may be implemented using pulse width modulation.

[0089] Additionally, the heater profile may be modified based on the negative pressure applied to the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60). By using a MEMS flow sensor, the nicotine vapor inhalation intensity can be measured and used as feedback to the controller (2105) to adjust the power delivery to the heater of the nicotine-free pod assembly (30), which may also be referred to as heating or energy transfer.

[0090] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, when the controller (2105) recognizes that a nicotine-free pod is currently installed (e.g., via an SKU, serial number, unique identification number, a public cryptographic key corresponding to a private nicotine-free pod, etc.), the controller (2105) matches an associated heating profile designed for that specific nicotine-free pod assembly. The controller (2105) and the storage medium (2145) will store algorithms and data that allow for the generation of heating profiles for various nicotine-free pod types, nicotine-free vapor preparations, etc. In other exemplary embodiments, the controller (2105) may read a heating profile from a nicotine-free pod. Adult smokers may also adjust the heating profile to suit their personal preferences.

[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the controller (2105) transmits and receives data with the power supply unit (2110). The power supply unit (2110) includes a power source (2110b) and a power controller (2110a) that manages the power output from the power source (2110b).

[0092] The power source (2110b) may be a lithium-ion battery or one of its variations, for example, a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source (2110b) may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lithium-manganese battery, a lithium-cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. The power source (2110b) may include a circuit that is rechargeable and allows the battery to be charged by an external charging device. In this case, the circuit must provide power for a desired (or alternatively predetermined) number of nicotine-free vapor inhalations when charged, and then the circuit must be reconnected to the external charging device.

[0093] The power controller (2110a) provides a command to the power supply (2110b) based on instructions from the controller (2105). For example, the power supply (2110) may receive a command from the controller (2105) to provide power to the nicotine pod (via the nicotine pod electrical / data interface (2120)) when the nicotine pod is authenticated and an adult smoker activates the device system (2100) (e.g., by a toggle button, a capacitive sensor, an IR sensor, or by applying negative pressure to the mouthpiece). If the nicotine pod is not authenticated, the controller (2105) may not send a command to the power supply (2110) or may send a command to the power supply (2110) not to provide power. In another exemplary embodiment, the controller (2105) may disable all operations of the device system (2100) if the nicotine-free pod is not authenticated.

[0094] In addition to supplying power to the nicotine-free pod, the power supply unit (2110) also supplies power to the controller (2105). Additionally, the power controller (2110a) can provide feedback to the controller (2105) indicating the performance of the power supply (2110b).

[0095] The controller (2105) transmits data to and receives data from at least one antenna (2140). At least one antenna (2140) may include a Near Field Communication (NFC) modem and a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) modem and / or other modems for other wireless technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi). In an exemplary embodiment, the communication stack is in the modem, but the modem is controlled by the controller (2105). The Bluetooth LE modem is used for data and control communication with an application on an external device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, computer, wireless beacon, etc.). The NFC modem may be used to pair the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) with the application and to retriev diagnostic information. Furthermore, the Bluetooth LE modem may be used to provide location information (for an adult smoker to locate the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60)) or authentication during purchase.

[0096] The controller (2105) provides information to the smoking indicator (2135) to indicate the state and actions occurring to the adult smoker. The smoking indicator (2135) includes a power indicator (e.g., LED) that can be activated when the controller (2105) detects a button being pressed by the adult smoker. The smoking indicator (2135) may also include a vibrator, a speaker, an indicator of the current state of the adult smoker-controlled nicotine smoking parameters (e.g., nicotine vapor amount), and other feedback mechanisms.

[0097] Additionally, the device system (2100) may include a plurality of on-product control units (2150) that provide commands from an adult smoker to a controller (2105). The on-product control units (2150) include, for example, an on-off button which may be a toggle button, a capacitive sensor, or an IR sensor. The on-product control units (2150) may further include a nicotine-free electronic smoking control button (if the adult smoker wishes to override the buttonless vaping function to operate the heater), a hard reset button, a touch-based slider control (e.g., control of setting nicotine smoking parameters such as nicotine vapor intake volume), a nicotine smoking control button to activate the slider, and a mechanical adjuster for an air inlet. Hand-to-mouth (HMG) gesture detection is another example of buttonless nicotine smoking. Additionally, a combination of key strokes (e.g., a key stroke entered by an adult smoker via the on-product control unit (2150)) may be used to lock the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) and prevent the device from operating to generate vapor. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the combination of key strokes may be set by the manufacturer of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) and / or the device system (2100). According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the combination of key strokes may be set or changed by the adult smoker (e.g., by a key stroke entered by the adult smoker via the on-product control unit (2150)).

[0098] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free pod system (2200) may include, but is not limited to, a heater (2215), a non-volatile memory (2205b), a main body electrical / data interface (2210), one or more nicotine-free pod sensors (2220), and / or a heater resistance monitor circuit (3000). The nicotine-free pod system (2200) communicates with the device system (2100) through the main body electrical / data interface (2210) and the nicotine-free pod electrical / data interface (2120).

[0099] The heater (2215) can be operated by the controller (2105) and can transfer heat to at least a portion of the nicotine-free vapor preparation within the nicotine-free pod assembly (30) according to a commanded profile (volume, temperature (based on the power profile), and flavor) from the controller (2105) in order to vaporize the nicotine-free vapor preparation into nicotine-free vapor. The controller (2105) can determine the amount of nicotine-free vapor preparation to be heated based on feedback from the nicotine-free pod sensor or the heater (2215). The flow of the nicotine-free vapor preparation can be controlled by microcapillaries or wicking action. Additionally, the controller (2105) can send a command to the heater (2215) to adjust the air inlet to the heater (2215).

[0100] The heater (2215) may be, for example, a flat body, a ceramic body, a single wire, a resistive wire cage, a wire coil surrounding a wick, a mesh, a surface, or any other suitable form. Examples of suitable electrically resistive materials include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel alloys, cobalt alloys, chromium alloys, aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, zirconium alloys, hafnium alloys, niobium alloys, molybdenum alloys, tantalum alloys, tungsten alloys, tin alloys, gallium alloys, manganese alloys, and iron-containing alloys, and superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, and stainless steel. For example, the heater may be formed of nickel aluminide, a material with an alumina layer on the surface, iron aluminide, and other composite materials. Depending on the dynamics of energy transfer and the required external physicochemical properties, the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated in, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa. In one embodiment, the heater (2215) comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloy, nickel-chromium alloy, superalloy, and combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, the heater (2215) is formed of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater (2215) may be a ceramic heater having an electrically resistive layer on its outer surface.

[0101] In another exemplary embodiment, the heater (2215) may be composed of iron-aluminide (e.g., FeAl or Fe3Al). Additionally, according to some embodiments, the heater (2215) may be included in the device system (2100) rather than the nicotine-free pod system (2200).

[0102] In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the nicotine-free pod system (2200) may include non-volatile memory (2205b) instead of CC-NVM, and the cryptographic coprocessor is omitted. If the nicotine-free pod system (2200) does not have a cryptographic coprocessor, the controller (2105) may read data from the non-volatile memory (2205b) without using the cryptographic coprocessor to control / define the heating profile. However, if the nicotine-free pod system (2200) includes a cryptographic coprocessor, the cryptographic coprocessor may control the transmission (e.g., reading) of information coded in the NVM (2205b) and / or control the reception (e.g., writing) of information from the controller (2105) to be stored in the NVM (2205b).

[0103] Furthermore, the non-volatile memory (2205b) may store product usage information such as the stock keeping unit (SKU) of the nicotine-free vapor preparation in the nicotine-free vapor preparation compartment (including the nicotine-free vapor preparation composition), software patches for the device system (2100), the number of nicotine-free vapor inhalations, the duration of nicotine-free vapor inhalations, and the nicotine-free vapor preparation level. The non-volatile memory (2205b) may store operating parameters specific to the type of nicotine pod and the nicotine-free vapor preparation composition. For example, the non-volatile memory (2205b) may store the electrical and mechanical design of the nicotine pod for use by the controller (2105) to determine instructions corresponding to a desired nicotine-free smoking profile. Additionally, the non-volatile memory (2205b) may store special-purpose computer-readable instructions corresponding to a trained neural network. The trained neural network will be discussed in more detail in relation to Figures 4a through 7b.

[0104] The nicotine-free vapor pre-prep level may be an approximate measurement of the nicotine-free vapor pre-prep level of the nicotine-free pod, for example, by directly measuring the nicotine-free vapor pre-prep level of the nicotine-free pod using one of the nicotine-free pod sensors (2220) and / or by calculating the number of nicotine-free vapor inhalation instances as a proxy for the amount of vaporized nicotine-free vapor pre-prep corresponding to the nicotine-free pod in non-volatile memory (2205b) using the controller (2105).

[0105] The controller (2105) and / or the storage medium (2145) may store nicotine-free vapor preparative calibration data that identifies the operating point of the nicotine-free vapor preparative composition. The nicotine-free vapor preparative calibration data includes data describing how the flow rate of the nicotine-free vapor preparative changes according to the residual nicotine-free vapor preparative level or how the volatility changes according to the lifespan of the nicotine-free vapor preparative, and may be used for calibration by the controller (2105). The nicotine-free vapor preparative calibration data may be stored in a table format by the controller (2105) and / or the storage medium (2145). The nicotine-free vapor preparative calibration data enables the controller (2105) to equate the count of nicotine-free vapor inhalations with the amount of vaporized nicotine-free vapor preparative.

[0106] Since the controller (2105) records the nicotine vapor pre-prep level and the count of nicotine vapor inhalations in the non-volatile memory (2205b) of the nicotine pod, when the nicotine pod is removed from the main body device (10) and later reinstalled, the controller (2105) will still know the exact nicotine vapor pre-prep level of the nicotine pod.

[0107] Operating parameters (e.g., power supply parameters, power supply duration parameters, air channel control parameters) are referred to as smoking profiles. Additionally, the non-volatile memory (2205b) can record information communicated by the controller (2105). The non-volatile memory (2205b) can retain the recorded information even when the device body (10) is separated from the nicotine-free pod.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment, the non-volatile memory (2205b) may be a programmable read-only memory.

[0109] Data generated from the non-nicotine pod sensor (2220) can be sampled at a sample rate appropriate for the parameters being measured using a discrete, multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The non-nicotine pod sensor (2220) may include, for example, a heater temperature sensor, a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation flow monitor, an airflow sensor, a resistance meter for measuring the resistance of the heater, and / or a puff detector. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater temperature sensor may be a thermistor or a thermocouple, and the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation flow detection may be performed by the pod system (2200) using electrostatic interference or an in-non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation rotator.

[0110] Additionally, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine-free pod system (2200) further includes a heater resistance monitor circuit (3000) for measuring the resistance of a heater (2215). The heater resistance monitor circuit will be discussed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3a and FIGS. 3b. Also, according to another exemplary embodiment, the heater resistance monitor circuit (3000) may be included in the device system (2100).

[0111] Although FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate exemplary embodiments of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device is not limited thereto and may include additional and / or alternative hardware configurations suitable for the described purpose. For example, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device may include a plurality of additional or alternative elements, such as additional or alternative heating elements, storage units, batteries, etc. Additionally, although FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate exemplary embodiments of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device implemented in two separate housing elements, further exemplary embodiments may relate to a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device provided in a single housing and / or in two or more housings.

[0112] 3a and 3b are block diagrams showing various elements of an exemplary heater resistance monitor circuit for a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 3a, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device may include, but is not limited to, a heater resistance monitor circuit (3000A) for detecting the resistance of a heater (e.g., a heating coil) such as a heater (2215) in real time (e.g., continuously monitoring and / or dynamically monitoring the resistance of the heater, etc.) or at a desired time controlled by a controller of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device such as a controller (2105). The heater resistance monitor circuit (3000A) may include at least a voltage meter (2221) (e.g., a voltmeter) connected to the controller (2105), a power supply (2110), and the heater (2215), but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, an exemplary embodiment may further include one or more reference resistors having known resistance values ​​connected in series between the power supply (2110) and the heater (2215) to facilitate the calculation of the resistance of the heater (2215), a second special-purpose controller for measuring the resistance of the heater, and a trained neural network for estimating the steady-state resistance of the heater. The power supply (2110) may be configured to output at least two power signals to the heater (2215), for example, a first power signal during the normal operation mode of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (60) and a second power signal during the heater resistance measurement operation mode, based on a trigger signal (e.g., command signal, instruction, etc.) output from the controller (2105), but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. When the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device is in normal operation, normal operation power from the power supply (2110) flows to the heater (2215). When the controller (2105) outputs a trigger signal indicating the start of the heater resistance measurement operation, the power supply (2110) can output a second power signal of a known current value. A voltmeter (2221) is connected to the power supply (2110) and the controller (2105) in parallel with the heater (2215).The voltmeter (2221) measures the voltage drop across the heater (2215) and outputs the measured voltage drop to the controller (2105). The controller (2105) measures the resistance of the heater (2215) using Ohm's law based on the known current value output from the power supply (2110) and the voltage drop measured by the voltmeter (2221). After a short time (e.g., about 50 ms to 100 ms), the controller (2105) stops outputting a trigger signal to the power supply (2110), and normal power from the power supply (2110) is used and flows back to the heater (2215).

[0114] Referring to FIG. 3b, according to at least one other exemplary embodiment, the heater resistance monitor circuit is configured to detect the resistance of the heater in real time (e.g., continuously monitoring and / or dynamically monitoring the resistance of the heater, etc.) or at a desired time controlled by the controller (2105). The heater resistance monitor circuit (3000B) may include a plurality of MOSFETs, a load switch (3130), at least one controller (2105), a voltage divider (3120), and / or a Wheatstone bridge (3140), but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, according to another exemplary embodiment, the heater resistance monitor circuit (3000B) may further include a second special-purpose controller for running a neural network trained to measure the resistance of the heater and estimate the steady-state resistance of the heater, etc. A plurality of MOSFETs may include at least a first PMOSFET (3151) and a second PMOSFET (3152) and at least one NMOSFET (3153), the first PMOSFET (3151) and the second PMOSFET (3152) are connected in a back-to-back configuration and are connected between a power source (e.g., power source (2110)) and a heater (2215), the drain D of the NMOSFET (3153) is connected to the gate G of the first PMOSFET (3151) and the second PMOSFET (3152), and the gate G of the NMOSFET (3153) is connected to a controller (2105). When the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device is in normal operation, power from the power source (2110) flows to the heater (2215) through the closed (on) PMOSFETs (3151 and 3152).

[0115] The Wheatstone bridge may include at least a first resistor (R1), a second resistor (R3), and a third resistor (R5), but is not limited thereto, and all resistors may have a fixed resistance value (e.g., a known, constant resistance value). The Wheatstone bridge may be connected to a heater (2215) so that the heater (2215) can be used as a variable resistor with the fixed value resistor R1, and resistors R3 and R5 may form the fixed resistance of the Wheatstone bridge. The Wheatstone bridge may also be connected in series with a load switch (3130). The load switch (3130) may output an R_SENSE_nEN signal to the controller (2105), and this signal causes the controller (2105) to start detecting / monitoring the heater resistance by outputting a COIL_LOCKOUT_nEN signal to the PMOSFETs (3151, 3153). In response to the COIL_LOCKOUT_nEN signal, the PMOSFETs (3151, 3152) are opened (off) and power to the heater (2215) is cut off (e.g., stopped). The controller (2105) detects the variable resistor COIL_RES and the fixed resistor BRIDGE_REF using the V_BRIDGE voltage from the load switch (3130). After a short time (e.g., about 50ms to about 100ms, etc.), the controller (2105) stops outputting the COIL_LOCKOUT_nEN signal, and power from the power supply (2110) becomes available to flow back to the heater (2215) through the PMOSFETs (3151, 3152).

[0116] The controller (2105) can determine the resistance value for the heater (2215) by calculating the difference between the measured variable resistance (COIL_RES) and the known resistance of resistor R1 to determine the resistance of the heater (2215) during the resistance monitoring period.

[0117] FIGS. 3a and 3b illustrate exemplary embodiments of a heater resistance monitor circuit, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto and other heater resistance monitor circuits may include additional and / or alternative hardware configurations suitable for the described purpose.

[0118] FIGS. 4a through 4c are diagrams illustrating a neural network for predicting and / or estimating the steady-state resistance value of a heating element of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating the resistance value of a heating element of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device during a single puff event according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating a reduction in resistance according to a single puff event according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0119] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, a neural network implemented in a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device may be used to determine the steady-state resistance (e.g., baseline resistance value, final resistance value, etc.) of a heating element included in the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (e.g., heater (2215)) after a puff event of an adult smoker, and the steady-state resistance may be used to detect a dry puff event (e.g., dry wick event, etc.) of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 5, the electrical resistance of the heater (2215) depends on the temperature and metallurgy of the heater, and the electrical resistance value of the heater (2215) may change as the temperature of the heater increases or decreases, such as when power is applied to the heater (2215) to vaporize the nicotine-free vapor pre-preparation stored in the wick. For example, if the heater is composed of nichrome-60 wire, the temperature-dependent resistance of the heater may change by only about 2% due to the temperature of the heater, but the temperature-dependent resistance of the heater made of stainless steel may change by up to about 20% based on the temperature of the stainless steel heater, etc.

[0121] During a puff event (e.g., when negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece of an adult smoker nicotine electronic cigarette device), power is supplied from the power source (2110) to the heater (2215), causing the temperature of the heater (2215) to rise to a temperature sufficient to vaporize the nicotine vapor pre-preparation. After the puff event ends (and assuming no other puff event occurs), the power supplied from the power source (2110) to the heater (2215) is stopped by the controller (2105), and the temperature of the heater (2215) and the corresponding resistance value of the heater (2215) decrease until they reach a normal state temperature / resistance value.

[0122] As illustrated in FIG. 5, which illustrates the resistance values ​​of an exemplary heater of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device over time corresponding to multiple puff events (e.g., a training set of puff events), and as illustrated in FIG. 6, which shows the decay of the resistance values ​​after a single puff event over time, the initial resistance measurement during the puff event reaches a local maximum resistance value (e.g., approximately 3.67 ohms) and then decays to a local minimum resistance value (e.g., approximately 3.6 ohms) over a decay period of about 30 to 60 seconds. The local maximum resistance value may be considered as the peak resistance value of the heater (2215) for the puff event, and the local minimum resistance value may be considered as the steady-state resistance value (e.g., final resistance value) of the heater (2215) for the puff event. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the resistance value of the heater (2215) can be measured in real time using the heater resistance monitor circuit of FIG. 3a or FIG. 3b, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto and other real-time heater resistance monitor circuits may be used.

[0123] Additionally, the steady-state resistance value of the heater (2215) increases as the amount of nicotine-free vapor preparation stored in the wick decreases, and thus the steady-state resistance value can detect a dry puff event based on the steady-state resistance value compared to the dry puff detection threshold. Furthermore, according to some exemplary embodiments, when the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device does not include a wick, the steady-state resistance value also increases as the amount of nicotine-free vapor preparation heated and / or vaporized by the heating element increases. The dry puff detection threshold can be determined based on experimental data (e.g., laboratory tests, etc.) regarding the steady-state resistance value observed for the heater metallurgical composition, heater design type, and a known power value supplied to the heater for each specific nicotine-free electronic cigarette device.

[0124] However, while a heater resistance monitor circuit can be used to accurately measure the steady-state resistance value of the heater after a single puff event, the heater resistance monitor circuit may not provide an accurate measurement of the heater's steady-state resistance value when multiple puff events occur before the completion of the decay period. For example, two or more inhalation events may occur within approximately 30 seconds by a typical adult smoker (e.g., an adult smoker applies the first negative pressure at t0 and then the second negative pressure at t1 (t1 ≤ t0 + 30 seconds)). Consequently, the heater of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device does not reach the steady-state resistance value for the first puff event because it is not turned off during the entire decay period (e.g., approximately 30 to 60 seconds). This is because power is applied to the heater again for the second puff event.

[0125] An exemplary embodiment provides a method for determining a more accurate estimate of steady-state resistance values ​​without requiring an adult smoker to wait about 30 to 60 seconds between puff events to detect whether a dry puff event has occurred.

[0126] Now, referring to FIGS. 4a through 4c, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, a neural network may be provided to estimate the steady-state resistance value of the heater of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device based on at least two measured resistance values ​​for the heater during and / or after a puff event. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, two or more measured resistance values ​​for the heater may be used to estimate (and / or predict) the heater resistance value 30 to 60 seconds after the end of the puff event, which corresponds to the estimation of the steady-state resistance value (e.g., the estimated final resistance value), so that an adult smoker does not need to wait for the decay period (e.g., 30 to 60 seconds) to end. For example, a first measured heater resistance value may be obtained at the point when the power to the heater (2215) is cut off (to measure the peak resistance value of the heater), and a second measured heater resistance value may be obtained at the start of the decay slope of the resistance value (e.g., about 0.5 seconds, etc.) after a short time. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and for example, the number of measured heater resistance values ​​used to estimate the normal state heater resistance value may be three or more, and the third measured heater resistance value may be obtained after the second measured heater resistance value, for example, before the second puff occurs, and the fourth measured heater resistance value may be obtained after the third measured heater resistance value, such as at the beginning of the ankle portion of the decay curve (e.g., about 0.2 seconds after power to the heater (2215) is cut off). Additionally, the time for measuring the heater resistance may be adjusted, and the decay period may be adjusted to an appropriate time according to the temperature / resistance characteristics of the heater included in the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device.

[0127] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the neural network may be implemented as special purpose program code (e.g., special purpose computer-readable instructions) mounted on a controller of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device such as a controller (2105), but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto, and the neural network may be implemented in a separate special purpose processor (e.g., a specially programmed FPGA, a special purpose ASIC, a special purpose SoC, etc.) included in the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device, etc. and / or the neural network may be provided through a wired and / or wireless network connection to a specially programmed external computing device, etc.

[0128] Now, referring more specifically to FIG. 4a, FIG. 4a illustrates the overall topology of a neural network according to at least one exemplary embodiment. The neural network itself may be a function-fitting network that approximates the "most reasonable" function corresponding to the decay process of heater resistance, and according to at least one embodiment, the neural network may compute the following function:

[0129] Formula 1

[0130] In the above formula, R(t) represents a resistance function over time (e.g., a function including peak resistance relative to the steady-state resistance value), A and B are first and second attenuation magnitudes, t1 is a first attenuation factor corresponding to a first (e.g., fast) temperature attenuation rate observed in a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device, t2 is a second attenuation factor corresponding to a second (e.g., slow) temperature attenuation rate observed in a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device, and R frepresents the original resistance value of the heater (2215) (e.g., the resistance value of the heater when no power is applied to the heater or when the heater is "cold," etc.). The damping magnitudes A and B, damping rate t1 and damping rate t2 are constant values ​​that depend on the composition of a specific nicotine-free pod (e.g., based on and / or influenced by the composition forming the heater, wick, and / or nicotine-free prevapor formulation, etc.). These constant values ​​can be obtained from experimental data.

[0131] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the topology of the neural network comprises at least an input layer, at least one output layer, and at least one hidden layer that outputs vector(s) to said at least one output layer, wherein at the input layer, measured resistance value(s) of the heater of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device are input into the neural network, and the output layer may output a single scalar value as an estimated steady-state (e.g., final) resistance value for the heater of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and there may be more or fewer layers, inputs, and / or outputs included in the neural network.

[0132] FIG. 4b illustrates at least one hidden layer (e.g., first layer, intermediate layer, activation layer, etc.) of a neural network according to at least one exemplary embodiment, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For convenience in this specification, the first layer (e.g., intermediate layer) of the neural network is referred to as the “hidden” layer, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and in some embodiments, the first layer may be connected to external connections together with the input layer and thus may not be a true “hidden” layer. As illustrated in FIG. 4b, at least one hidden layer may include three neurons (e.g., activation nodes, etc.) in one hidden layer, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and the number of hidden layers may be greater than one, and the number of neurons may be greater than or less than three. Each of the three neurons may receive an input vector including a weight matrix as well as measured heater resistance values ​​(e.g., R0, R1, R2, etc.). Each neuron in at least one hidden layer can be a 3-tuple vector by taking the inner product of the input vector and a single row of the weight matrix. Then, a bias value vector is added to the 3-tuple vector to generate vector "n", and a transfer function is applied to this vector element by element to generate vector "a".

[0133] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the transfer function used is tangent sigmoid or as shown below. tansig It may be, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto:

[0134] Formula 2

[0135] However, according to some exemplary embodiments, tansig Taylor expansion of the function (Equation 3) and / or application of Horner's law (Equation 4) are used to perform hidden layer calculations more efficiently, particularly in relation to low processing power controllers (8-bit controllers with or without a floating-point unit), tansig It can be used as a passing function instead of a function:

[0136] Formula 3

[0137] Formula 4

[0138] However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0139] Referring now to FIG. 4c, FIG. 4 illustrates an output layer of a neural network according to at least one exemplary embodiment. According to at least one embodiment, the output layer of the neural network may include a single neuron, and the single neuron may include an output weight vector, an input vector output from the hidden layer, a bias value, and a transfer function, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. The neuron of the output layer may take the inner product of the output vector "a" of the hidden layer and the output weight vector. As a result, a bias value may be added to the output and input to the transfer function. Referring to FIG. 4c, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, the bias value is R, which is an asymptotic value at which the resistance value of the heater decays over time. f (For example, R used in Formula 1 above f The transfer function may be a value, and the transfer function is a pass-through function, e.g., y = x, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The output layer then outputs the estimated steady-state heater resistance value.

[0140] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the weight matrix and bias value of at least one hidden layer, and the weight vector and bias value of at least one output layer of the neural network can be determined by training the neural network on a training data set corresponding to actual measured resistance values ​​for a heater of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (or an equivalent heater exhibiting temperature / electrical characteristics similar to the heater included in the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device), as well as on the measured resistance values ​​used as input to the neural network (e.g., the time when power to the heater is cut off, the start time of the decay curve, the start time of the ankle of the decay curve, etc.). In the neural network training step, the measured resistance values ​​of the training data set, excluding the measured steady-state resistance values, are input to the neural network, and the mean squared error (MSE) between the estimated steady-state resistance value and the actual steady-state resistance value is measured to generate an estimation algorithm for the neural network. Subsequently, parameters of the neural network (e.g., weight matrix values ​​of hidden layers and output layers, bias values, etc.) are adjusted using an estimation algorithm, and training is repeated until the neural network outputs an estimated steady-state resistance value (and / or an estimated asymptotic resistance value) within the desired error limit of the actual steady-state resistance value. Based on the experiments performed, the training data set may include 20 to 100 puff events / decrease events, and the neural network can be accurately trained by performing 5 runs of the training set. However, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0141] FIGS. 7a and 7b are flowcharts illustrating a method for detecting a dry puff event using the steady-state resistance value of a heating element of a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0142] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, in operation S710, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device may detect the application of negative pressure by an adult smoker (e.g., a puff event). In operation S720, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device may perform at least one real-time measurement of the resistance value of the heater of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device after the application of negative pressure ends and after the subsequent power cut between the heater and the power of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device. According to some exemplary embodiments, the resistance value of the heater may be measured three or more times, including a measurement at the time when the power to the heater is cut off, a measurement at the time when the start of the decay slope is observed, and / or a measurement at the time when the start of the decay curve ankle is observed, but is not limited thereto. In operation S725, the measured resistance value of the heater is input into a trained neural network, and the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device utilizes the trained neural network to estimate the steady-state resistance value of the heater (e.g., an estimated final resistance value). An exemplary calculation of the estimated steady-state resistance value will be discussed in more detail in relation to Fig. 7b.

[0143] In operation S730, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device determines whether a dry puff state exists in the heater of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device based on the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heater and the desired threshold resistance value. If the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device determines that there is no dry puff state, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device continues normal operation (S740) and returns to operation S710.

[0144] Returning to operation S730, if the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device determines that a dry puff condition exists, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device disables power to the heater (S750). According to some exemplary embodiments, information may be stored in the memory of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device and / or in the memory of a nicotine-free pod assembly holding a nicotine vapor preparation (e.g., a nicotine cartridge, a storage unit holding a nicotine vapor preparation, etc.), indicating that the nicotine-free pod assembly is empty. The information may include a unique identifier for identifying the nicotine-free pod assembly. Additionally, power to the heater may remain disabled until a new nicotine-free pod assembly (e.g., a non-empty nicotine pod assembly) is inserted into the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device. A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device can determine whether a newly inserted nicotine-free pod assembly is a new nicotine-free pod assembly or an empty nicotine-free pod assembly based on information stored in the memory of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device and / or the nicotine-free pod assembly.

[0145] As mentioned above, FIG. 7b illustrates a method for estimating a steady-state heater resistance value using a trained neural network. Referring to FIG. 7b, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, in operation S726, a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device measures the peak resistance value of the heater (the resistance value at the point when the heater power is cut off) during a decay period (e.g., a first period) using a heater resistance measuring circuit. In operation S727, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device measures at least one additional resistance value for the heater during a decay period (e.g., a first period) using a heater resistance measuring circuit. In step S728, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device may input the measured peak resistance value and the measured at least one additional resistance value into a trained neural network. In operation S729, the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device performs a calculation on the trained neural network to output the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heater used in operation S730 of FIG. 7a.

[0146] The described exemplary embodiments provide a method, system, device, and / or non-transient computer-readable medium for detecting a dry puff event based on an estimated steady-state resistance value of a heater in a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device. One or more exemplary embodiments can reduce the size and / or manufacturing cost of the nicotine-free electronic cigarette device and / or provide more accurate temperature readings.

[0147] It should be understood that exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein and that other variations may be possible. Such variations should not be construed as departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, and all such variations that are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Claim 1 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (EVD) comprising: a storage unit holding a nicotine-free vapor preparation that is free of nicotine and contains at least one nicotine-free compound; a heating element configured to heat the nicotine-free vapor preparation drawn from the storage unit; and a control circuit; wherein the control circuit is configured to monitor the resistance value of the heating element over a first period after a first application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD, determine an estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element using a trained neural network based on the monitored resistance value, and control power to the heating element based on the estimated steady-state resistance value, wherein the estimated steady-state resistance value corresponds to a local minimum resistance value. Claim 2 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit: detects a dry puff state in the nicotine-free EVD based on the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element; disables power to the heating element in response to the detected dry puff state; and the control circuit prevents power from being applied to the heating element in response to detecting a second application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD. Claim 3 delete Claim 4 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control circuit is configured to: determine a peak resistance value of the heating element during the first period and monitor the resistance value of the heating element by determining at least one additional resistance value of the heating element after the determined peak resistance value during the first period; and determine the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element by estimating the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element using the trained neural network based on the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value. Claim 5 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to claim 4, wherein the trained neural network is a function fitting network, and the function fitting network is configured to: receive the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value as input values; determine attenuation from the input values ​​over the first period; and output the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the result of the determined attenuation from the resistance value of the heating element over the first period. Claim 6 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to claim 4, wherein the peak resistance value is determined at the point when the power applied to the heating element is stopped after the first application of the negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD. Claim 7 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to claim 6, wherein the at least one additional resistance value comprises at least a second resistance value and a third resistance value, wherein the second resistance value is determined after the point in time when the peak resistance is determined and before the third resistance value is determined, and the third resistance value is determined after the point in time when the second resistance value is determined and before detecting the second application of the sound pressure. Claim 8 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heating element is connected to a Wheatstone bridge circuit, and the control circuit is configured to: detect a variable resistance value corresponding to the heating element over the first period; detect a resistance value corresponding to the Wheatstone bridge circuit over the first period; and, based on the detected variable resistance value corresponding to the heating element and the detected resistance value corresponding to the Wheatstone bridge circuit, use the trained neural network to estimate the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element. Claim 9 delete Claim 10 delete Claim 11 A method for operating a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (EVD), the method comprising: a control circuit of the nicotine-free EVD monitoring a resistance value of a heating element contained in the nicotine-free EVD over a first period after a first application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD; the control circuit determining an estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the monitored resistance value using a trained neural network; and the control circuit controlling power to the heating element based on the estimated steady-state resistance value, wherein the estimated steady-state resistance value corresponds to a local minimum resistance value, and the heating element heating a nicotine-free vapor preparation comprising at least one nicotine-free compound that is nicotine-free and drawn from a storage portion of the nicotine-free EVD. Claim 12 In claim 11, the method further comprises: using the control circuit to detect a dry puff state in the nicotine-free EVD based on the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element; using the control circuit to deactivate power to the heating element in response to the detected dry puff state; using the control circuit to detect a second application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD; and using the control circuit to prevent power from being applied to the heating element in response to the detection of the second application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD. Claim 13 delete Claim 14 A method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein monitoring the resistance value of the heating element comprises: determining a peak resistance value of the heating element during the first period; and determining at least one additional resistance value of the heating element at a point in time after the peak resistance value determined during the first period; and determining the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element comprises estimating the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element using the trained neural network based on the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value. Claim 15 In claim 14, the trained neural network is a function-fitting network, and the method further comprises: receiving the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value as input values ​​using the control circuit; determining the attenuation at the resistance value of the heating element over the first period using the control circuit; and outputting the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the result of the determined attenuation at the resistance value of the heating element over the first period. Claim 16 In claim 14, the method wherein the peak resistance value is determined at the point in time when the power applied to the heating element is interrupted after the first application of the sound pressure to the nicotine-free EVD. Claim 17 A method according to claim 16, wherein the at least one additional resistance value comprises at least a second resistance value and a third resistance value, wherein the second resistance value is determined after the point in time when the peak resistance is determined and before the third resistance value is determined, and the third resistance value is determined after the point in time when the second resistance value is determined and before detecting the second application of the sound pressure. Claim 18 delete Claim 19 delete Claim 20 delete Claim 21 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device (EVD) comprising: a storage unit holding a nicotine-free vapor preparation that is nicotine-free and includes at least one nicotine-free compound; a heating element configured to heat the nicotine-free vapor preparation drawn from the storage unit; a heater resistance monitor circuit configured to determine a peak resistance value of the heating element during a first period after a first application of negative pressure to the nicotine-free EVD and to determine at least one additional resistance value of the heating element during the first period; a trained neural network configured to estimate a steady-state resistance value of the heating element during the first period based on the determined peak resistance value and the determined at least one additional resistance value, wherein the estimated steady-state resistance value corresponds to a local minimum resistance value; and a control circuit configured to deactivate power to the heating element based on the estimated steady-state resistance value. Claim 22 In claim 21, the trained neural network is further configured to detect a dry puff state in the nicotine-free EVD based on the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element, and the control circuit is further configured to disable power to the heating element in response to the detected dry puff state, a nicotine-free electronic cigarette device. Claim 23 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the trained neural network is a function fitting network, and the function fitting network is configured to receive the peak resistance value and the at least one additional resistance value as input values, determine the attenuation of the input values ​​over the first period, and output the estimated steady-state resistance value of the heating element based on the result of the determined attenuation at the resistance value of the heating element over the first period. Claim 24 A nicotine-free electronic cigarette device according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the peak resistance value is determined at the point in time when the power applied to the heating element is interrupted after the first negative pressure is applied to the nicotine-free EVD. Claim 25 delete Claim 26 delete

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