Vaping case and systems and methods involving the same

Abstract

A vaping cessation device and systems and methods involving the same is disclosed. The vaping cessation device includes a case for receiving an e-cigarette device, a lid that is moveable relative to the case, a locking mechanism having a locked state and an unlocked state, and a controller, such that the controller may toggle the locking mechanism between the locked state and the unlocked state so as to control access of a user to the e-cigarette device contained therein according to a predetermined schedule, user preferences, and the like. The device may further comprise a retention mechanism that is toggleable between a blocking state and an open state, such that, in the blocking state, the retention mechanism retains the e-cigarette device within the case independently of the lid and / or the locking mechanism.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Aspects described herein generally relate to devices and methods that facilitate and / or otherwise assist with the cessation and / or reduction of inhalation-based substance delivery system use, such as cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and / or the like.BACKGROUND

[0002] Electronic cigarette use has emerged as a significant public health challenge, with millions of users developing nicotine dependence or other similar consumption dependencies through these devices. Modern e-cigarettes deliver nicotine with unprecedented efficiency, often resulting in higher concentrations and more rapid absorption than may be found in typical nicotine products. Current cessation methods, which are typically adapted from traditional tobacco cessation programs, tend to demonstrate high failure rates because they do not address the unique usage patterns found among e-cigarette consumption or vaping. These traditional methods are not well suited to addressing the high-frequency dosing behavior enabled by typical e-cigarette devices and / or the continuous usage throughout the day that creates deeply ingrained habitual patterns, distinct from traditional cigarette use.SUMMARY

[0003] In light of these challenges, a need exists for cessation methods and tools that are adapted to the unique challenges posed by e-cigarette consumption. Aspects of the disclosure herein address these unmet needs by providing for an engineered solution that improves quitting success rates, and / or consumption reduction targets, by providing targeted, timely interventions based on user-specific data and behavioral patterns.

[0004] Aspects of the disclosure include a vaping cessation device that includes a case configured to at least partially contain an e-cigarette device, a lid that is movable relative to the case and that is configured to at least partially restrict access to a mouthpiece of the e-cigarette device, a locking mechanism that is toggleable between a locked state and an unlocked state, and a controller configured to operate the same, such that, while in the locked state, the locking mechanism restricts the lid from moving relative to the case.

[0005] Aspects of the disclosure include a vaping cessation system including a vaping cessation device and at least one of a mobile device and a server. The vaping cessation device includes a case configured to at least partially contain an e-cigarette device, a lid that is movable relative to the case and that is configured to at least partially restrict access to a mouthpiece of the e-cigarette device, a locking mechanism that is toggleable between a locked state and an unlocked state, and a controller configured to operate the same, such that, while in the locked state, the locking mechanism restricts the lid from moving relative to the case. The vaping cessation device is communicatively coupled to at least one of the mobile device and the server.

[0006] Aspects of the disclosure include a method for vaping cessation, comprising steps of receiving an e-cigarette device within a case of a vaping cessation device, and toggling a locking mechanism of the vaping cessation device according to a predetermined schedule. The vaping cessation device additionally includes a lid that is movable relative to the case and that is configured to at least partially restrict access to a mouthpiece of the e-cigarette device, and a controller configured to operate the same, such that, while in the locked state, the locking mechanism restricts the lid from moving relative to the case. The predetermined schedule defines at least one of a minimum amount of time between usages of the e-cigarette device and a predetermined number of usages of the e-cigarette device per time period.

[0007] These and additional features provided by the aspects described herein will be more fully understood in view of the following detailed description, in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The aspects set forth in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative aspects can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, where like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:

[0009] FIG. 1 schematically depicts an illustrative vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0010] FIG. 2A schematically depicts an exploded view of an illustrative vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0011] FIG. 2B schematically depicts an exploded view of an illustrative vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0012] FIG. 3A schematically depicts an illustrative retention mechanism of a vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0013] FIG. 3B schematically depicts an illustrative retention mechanism of a vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0014] FIG. 4A schematically depicts an illustrative locking mechanism of a vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0015] FIG. 4B schematically depicts an illustrative locking mechanism of a vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0016] FIG. 5 schematically depicts an illustrative vaping cessation device with a saddle insert according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0017] FIG. 6 schematically depicts an illustrative vaping cessation device with a two-part lid according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0018] FIG. 7A schematically depicts an illustrative vaping cessation device with a two-part lid according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0019] FIG. 7B schematically depicts an internal view of an illustrative vaping cessation device with a two-part lid according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0020] FIG. 8 schematically depicts illustrative latches for a vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0021] FIG. 9 schematically depicts an illustrative system including a vaping cessation device according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein;

[0022] FIG. 10 schematically depicts illustrative aspects of a controller, mobile device, and / or server according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein; and

[0023] FIG. 11 depicts an illustrative method for vaping cessation according to one or more aspects described and illustrated herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The disclosures herein describe a vaping cessation device that is configured to contain a vaping device and to restrict a user's access thereto and / or use thereof in furtherance of a cessation program. The user may be mechanically restricted from using the vaping device except in accordance with a predetermined schedule, at a predetermined frequency, and / or the like.

[0025] As used herein, “e-cigarette” or “electronic cigarette” are to be interpreted to encompass any electronic vaporization device and / or electronic aerosol delivery system that generates an inhalable aerosol, vapor, mist, and / or the like for user consumption, including but not limited to: cigalike devices, vape pens, pod-based systems, pod mods, box mods, mechanical mods, disposable vaping systems, rechargeable vaping devices, refillable tank systems, disposable devices, closed-system devices, open-system devices, heated tobacco products, heat-not-burn devices, herbal vaporizers, concentrate vaporizers, oil vaporizers, and / or any other battery- or electrically-powered device that vaporizes, aerosolizes, atomizes, or nebulizes a substance for inhalation. The term encompasses devices regardless of their shape, size, power source, heating mechanism, cartridge or tank configuration, intended substance, and / or manufacturer designation. Substances being vaporized may include nicotine, cannabinoids, terpenes, flavorings, essential oils, herbal extracts, vitamins, caffeine, pharmaceutical compounds, and / or the like, or any combination thereof, regardless of concentration.

[0026] As used herein, the term “vaping” or “to vape” refers to the act of using, consuming, inhaling from, drawing on, puffing on, or otherwise operating an e-cigarette as defined above to produce and inhale a substance delivered thereby. The terms “vaping,”“vape use,” and “e-cigarette use”are used interchangeably throughout this specification.

[0027] As used herein, “cessation” is to be interpreted to mean any reduction, decrease, diminishment, and / or elimination in the frequency, duration, intensity, and / or quantity of e-cigarette use, including but not limited to: complete abstinence, partial reduction in usage frequency, reduction in inhalations per usage, reduction in duration and / or intensity of inhalations, reduction in liquid consumption, reduction in liquid concentration, reduction in liquid potency, extension of time between suage sessions, elimination of use during specific time periods, controlled reduction schedules, and / or the like, without limit. The term “cessation” further encompasses both temporary and permanent reductions and / or any measurable decrease in any parameter associated with e-cigarette use relative to a particular user's baseline usage patterns.

[0028] Turning now to FIG. 1, with reference to FIGS. 2-4B, the vaping cessation device 1 may include a case 10 that is configured to at least partially contain an e-cigarette device 2, such as a vape, and a lid 20 that is attached to the case 10 and movable relative thereto to open and / or close the case 10. In some aspects, the lid 20 is attached to the case 10 via at least one hinge 30.

[0029] The hinge 30 may include a spring 32 (e.g., leaf spring, coil spring, elastic, and / or the like, without limit) and / or comparable biasing device to bias the lid towards at least one of a closed or an open position. In some aspects, the hinge 30 may include and / or the biasing device may otherwise be configured as a bi-stable mechanism such that the lid 20 may be biased towards either of an open or closed position depending on the position of the lid 20 relative to either position. In some aspects, the lid 20 may be provided with one or more magnets, clips, and / or the like to further assist with keeping the lid 20 closed relative to the case 10.

[0030] The case 10 may be formed and / or shaped to be portable and to accommodate, fit, and / or otherwise conform to a specific e-cigarette device 2, and / or to more generically accommodate or fit a variety of e-cigarette devices 2. The case 10 may have a substantially square, cuboid, rectangular, and / or prismatic shape and / or may have rounded corners and / or edges along any edge and / or side thereof. In some aspects, the case 10 corresponds to a shape of the e-cigarette device 2 intended to be contained therein, and may be shaped to accommodate any type of e-cigarette device further to the above definitions, including vape pens, pod systems, and box mod style vaping devices.

[0031] In some aspects, the vaping cessation device 1 may be formed from a lightweight, durable material, such as plastic. In some aspects, the case 10 may be formed from an opaque material, a translucent material, a transparent material, and / or any combination and / or degree thereof. In some aspects, the degree of transparency and / or translucency may be configured to provide privacy from one or more viewpoints. In some aspects, the degree of transparency and / or translucency may permit an electronic display within the case 10, such as that of the vaping cessation device 1 or that of the e-cigarette device 2, to shine through and display information on the case 10.

[0032] The lid 20 may comprise a shell and base plate that are attached to one another, such as via screws or the like, that together define a space for containing electronics, controllers, and / or the like in furtherance of the operation of the vaping cessation device 1. In some aspects, the base plate may be removably separable from the shell to facilitate servicing of those components contained thereby.

[0033] In some aspects, the lid 20 may further comprise an actuator (e.g., a motor, servo motor, linear actuator, and / or the like, without limit) provided to automatically open and / or close the lid in response to control signals from a controller 60, such as after a predetermined amount of time. In other embodiments, the lid may be configured to manually close, for example, by a user.

[0034] The case 10 may be provided with one or more openings 12 that may provide access to any operable elements of the e-cigarette device 2 while the e-cigarette device 2 is contained within the case 10. For example, the one or more openings may provide access to charge ports, buttons, cartridges and / or tanks (e.g., for refilling purposes), displays, touch screens, adjustment mechanisms, temperature control wheels, data interfaces and / or the like of the e-cigarette device 2 so that the e-cigarette device need not be removed from the case 10 to facilitate any of these functions. In some aspects, the case 10 may be provided with one or more sleeves, coverings, or the like that may be removable from the case 10 and that may serve to cover, at least partially, any of the case 10 and / or the one or more openings 12. In some aspects, the case 10 may be openable or comprise a removable portion thereof to facilitate access to the bottom of the e-cigarette device 2 for servicing while still retaining the e-cigarette device 2 within a portion of the case 10 (e.g., the geometry of the portion of the case 10 may be configured such that the e-cigarette device cannot be removed from the portion due to retention prongs or other comparable features) such that the e-cigarette device 2 cannot be used or consumed by the user outside of any predetermined scheduling.

[0035] The vaping cessation device 1 may include a retention mechanism 40, or inner lock, that is toggleable and / or otherwise moveable between a blocking state and an open state. In the blocking state, the retention mechanism 40 is configured to retain and / or otherwise lock the e-cigarette device 2 within the case 10 while still permitting a user to access the e-cigarette device 2 for use and / or consumption. In this way, a user may still use and / or otherwise service the e-cigarette device 2 without removing the e-cigarette device 2 from the case 10. In the open state, the retention mechanism 40 permits the e-cigarette device 2 to be removed from the case 10.

[0036] The retention mechanism 40 may include an actuator 42 (e.g., a motor, servo motor, linear actuator, and / or the like, without limit) and a blocking portion 44, such that the controller 60 may control the actuator 42 to move the blocking portion 44 between a blocking state (e.g., the position shown in FIG. 3A) and an open state (e.g., the position shown in FIG. 3B). The retention mechanism 40 may include any number of linkages and / or the like to operatively connect the actuator 42 with the blocking portion 44.

[0037] The vaping cessation device 1 may include a locking mechanism 50, or outer lock, that is toggleable and / or otherwise moveable between a locked state and an unlocked state. While in the locked state, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the lid 20 from opening relative to the case 10 and to prevent the user from accessing the e-cigarette device 2, or some portion thereof, contained therein. While in the unlocked state, the locking mechanism 50 permits the lid 20 to open relative to the case 10 so that the user can access and / or use the e-cigarette device 2, or some portion thereof (e.g., a mouthpiece 21), contained therein. The locking mechanism may include an actuator 52 (e.g., a motor, servo motor, linear actuator, and / or the like, without limit) and a latching portion 54, such that the controller may control the actuator 52 to move the latching portion 54 between the locked state (e.g., the position shown in FIG. 4A) and the unlocked state (e.g., the position shown in FIG. 4B). The locking mechanism 50 may include any number of linkages and / or the like to operatively connect the actuator 52 with the latching portion 54. In some aspects, the latching portion 54 may include a latch 56 rotatable about a pin 57 that is operatively engageable with a protrusion 58, lip, or the like provided in and / or on the case 10.

[0038] The vaping cessation device 1 may further include a controller 60, discussed in greater detail below, for controlling at least one of the retention mechanism 40 and / or the locking mechanism 50, receiving input from a user interface, providing information to a display, and / or the like.

[0039] In some aspects, the vaping cessation device 1 may include a display 70, such as an LED screen, OLED screen, and / or the like provided on the case 10. Without limitation, the display 70 may be configured to show various types of information including but not limited to battery percentage, a time to next opening, and / or remaining puffs. By way of example, the display 70 may be configured to display a wait time until the next unlock; puff count or puffs remaining; battery percentage of the vaping cessation device 1; communication status information, such as Bluetooth connection; or any combination thereof. In some aspects, the display 70 may be an indicator light, such an LED light or the like, such that a number of blinks, frequency, color, and / or the like of the indicator light may serve to convey information regarding the status of the vaping cessation device 1 to a user.

[0040] In some aspects, the vaping cessation device 1 may include at least one user interface device, or button 80, that may be actuated to turn on the display 70 and / or otherwise interact with the controller 60 and / or case 10. In certain embodiments, each click of the button 80 may be configured to cycle through user interface screens. By way of example, a first click of the button 80 may be configured to cause the display 70 to show a first interface screen indicating the wait time until the next lock; a second click of the button 80 may be configured to cause the display 70 to show a second interface screen indicating the battery percentage of the vaping cessation device 1. In some aspects, the display 70 may default to display the lock time remaining. The sequence or order of the contents user interface screens may be set by the controller 60. In some aspects, the display 70 may be configured to display, for example, the battery percentage of the vaping cessation device in response to a first click, and may be configured to display the lock time remaining after expiration of a predetermined time period, or predetermined time delay, during which no actuation of the button 80 is detected. It is contemplated that the user interface may take other forms, such as a toggle, dial, rotor, slider, and / or the like, without limit, while maintaining similar function.

[0041] In some aspects, the vaping cessation device 1 may include an alarm 90, such as an audible alarm or speaker, that is configured to emit a sound. Additionally and / or alternatively, the alarm 90 may include haptic feedback, such as a vibration effect, emitted as a result of, in addition to, and / or instead of the audible alarm. In some aspects, the type of alarm 90 may be fixed. In other embodiments, the controller 60 may be configured to control the types of alarms emitted along with a respective duration, intensity, volume, or any combination thereof.

[0042] In some aspects, the controller 60 may be configured to control the alarm 90 to output a sound that is indicative of a duration and / or intensity of beeps, and additionally or alternatively of a duration and / or intensity of pulse(s) or vibration(s). For example, a first alarm 90 may be configured to output a sequence of soft and / or slow-timed beeps, and / or soft and / or slow-timed pulse(s) or vibration(s). The soft and / or slow-timed beeps may be indicative of an alarm reminder to close the lid 20 of the vaping cessation device 1. A second alarm 90 may be configured to output a sequence of loud and / or fast-time beeps, and / or fast and / or fast-timed pulse(s) or vibration(s). The second alarm 90 may be louder and / or faster than the beeps and / or pulse(s) or vibration(s) associated with the first alarm. The loud and / or fast-timed beeps and / or pulse(s) or vibration(s) may be indicative of an alarm reminder to incentivize closing of the lid 20 of the vaping cessation device 1. Yet further, a third alarm 90 may be configured to output a sound that incentivizes the user to take a single puff or a limited number of puffs. The third alarm 90 may be configured to be output in response to expiration of a number of seconds of the lid 20 of the vaping cessation device 1 being opened. It is understood that the volume, intensity, and / or duration of beeps and / or pulse(s) or vibration(s) is not limited to the sequence disclosed herein, and that other types of sounds or pulse(s) or vibration(s) may be used.

[0043] In some aspects, the vaping cessation device 1 may include one or more sensors 110 provided between a lid 20 and a case 10 of the vaping cessation device 1 and / or at and / or near an interface therebetween. The sensor 110 may be configured to sense if the lid 20 is open, as well as a duration of how long the lid 20 is opened. The determination of the lid 20 being opened as well as the duration of how long the lid 20 is opened may be recorded by the controller 60 and used in conjunction with those functions described herein. The sensor 110 may be a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, a mechanical switch, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, an electrical contact match, and / or the like, or any combination thereof, without limit. In some aspects, one or more of the sensors 110 may be configured to detect a degree to which the lid 20 has been opened. In some aspects, one or more of the sensors 110 may be configured to detect the presence or lack thereof of the e-cigarette device 2 within the case 10.

[0044] In some aspects, the vaping cessation device 1 may include at least one charge port 120 for providing electrical power to the vaping cessation device 1. For example, the charge port 120 may be a USB-based port, barrel connector, pin and / or blade and contact connector, and / or the like, without limit. In some aspects, charge port 120 may be, additionally and / or alternatively, replaced with electronics to facilitate wireless and / or induction charging. In some aspects, the vaping cessation device 1 includes a battery 130 connected to the charge port 120, either directly and / or by way of the controller 60 and / or suitable charging electronics, for storing energy for the purposes of powering the vaping cessation device 1 and / or components thereof. In some aspects, the battery 130 may be charged via the charge port 120.

[0045] In some aspects, an e-cigarette device 2 contained within the vaping cessation device 1 may be charged via the charge port 120. Such configurations may include additional wires, connectors, and / or the like, or wireless charging electronics, in order to establish an electrical connection between the charge port 120 and / or the battery 130 and the e-cigarette device 2. By charging the e-cigarette device in this way, any need to remove the e-cigarette device 2 from the vaping cessation device 1 may be reduced or eliminating, increasing the opportunity for compliance with scheduled usage. In some aspects, the vaping cessation device 1 may include two charge ports 120, such that a first charge port is dedicated to providing power to the vaping cessation device 1 and a second charge port is dedicated to providing power to the e-cigarette device.

[0046] Turning now to FIGS. 5-7B, another exemplary configuration of the vaping cessation device 1 is shown in which the lid 20 hinges from a long side of the case 10. As shown in FIG. 5, the vaping cessation device 1 may include a saddle 14, or spacer, clip, or the like, for stabilizing the e-cigarette device 2 within the case 10. In some aspects, the saddle 14 may be provided to prevent the e-cigarette device 2 from rattling within the case 10. In some aspects, the saddle 14 may serve to securely hold the e-cigarette device 2 within the case 10 in those instances in which an outer geometry of the e-cigarette device 2 is smaller than the internal geometry of the case 10, such that additional space and / or the like may otherwise exist between the e-cigarette device 2 and the case 10 when the e-cigarette device 2 is placed within the case. In some aspects, the saddle 14 may serve to securely hold the e-cigarette device 2 within a portion of the case 10, such as when the case is openable or provided with removable portions at the bottom thereof. It is contemplated that the saddle may be made of plastic, rubber, elastic, foam, and / or the like. It is further contemplated that the saddle may comprise one or more straps configured to suspend the e-cigarette device 2 within the case 10, as shown in FIG. 5, one or more spacers, and / or may otherwise fill or substantially fill the case 10 with a compressible material (e.g., foam) that may compress upon insertion of the e-cigarette device 2 within the case 10. It is also contemplated that those aspects described above with respect to FIGS. 1-4B may also be provided with a saddle 14 for reasons consistent with the above.

[0047] As shown in greater detail in FIGS. 6-7A, the lid 20 may be formed having a first part 22 and a second part 24 that are independently hinged with respect to the case 10. In some aspects, the first part 22 and the second part 24 are approximately the same size. In some aspects, the first part 22 is smaller than the second part. That is to say, the first part 22 serves to close a smaller portion of a top of the case 10 than the second part 24. However, it is further contemplated that the lid 20 may include more than two parts, or the like, to accommodate various e-cigarette device 2 configurations.

[0048] In some aspects, opening the first part 22 may provide access to the e-cigarette device 2 contained within the case so that the e-cigarette device 2 may be used and / or otherwise serviced by the user. However, the first part 22 may be sized such that e-cigarette device 2 cannot be removed from the case 10 through any opening or gap created thereby. Accordingly, opening and / or closing and / or locking and / or unlocking the first part 22 may control access to the e-cigarette device consistent with those disclosures above. In some aspects, a joint 25 between the first part 22 and the second part 24 may be curved so as to provide more comfortable and / or convenient access to the e-cigarette device for use by the user.

[0049] In some aspects, opening the second part 24, with or without opening the first part 22, may enable a user to remove the e-cigarette device 2 from the case 10. That is to say, the second part 24 prevents the e-cigarette device 2 from being removed from the case 10 when the second part 24 is closed and / or locked.

[0050] Further to those disclosures above, the first part 22 and the second part 24 may together or independently be provided with a spring, magnetic closures 29, bi-stable mechanisms, and / or the like to improve the opening and / or closing characteristics of the vaping cessation device 1.

[0051] In some aspects, the joint 25 between the first part 22 and the second part 24 may include an overlap between either the first part 22 and / or the second part 24 along an opening direction of the lid 20. That is to say, because of the overlap, the first part 22 may be prevented from opening unless the second part 24 is also open, or vice versa.

[0052] Turning now to FIGS. 7A-8, in some aspects, one or both of the first part 22 and the second part 24 my be provided with a retention portion 28 for interfacing with a latch 240. If only one retention portion 28 is provided, the latch 240 may be formed in an L shape in which a first end 250 of the latch 240 is provided with a latching prong 242. If two retention portions 28 are provided, the latch 240 may be formed in a T-shape in which a first end 250 of the latch 240 is provided with two latching prongs 242, giving rise to three possible states: a first locking state, a neutral state, and a second locking state. In either case, one or more actuators (e.g., a motor, servo motor, linear actuator, and / or the like, without limit) may interface with a second end 252 of the latch 240 to cause the latch 240 to actuate and / or to cause the latch 240 to rotate about a latching pin 244 or axis.

[0053] By way of controller 60, the actuators may be actuated to control the latch 240 to engage the latching prong 242 with one or more retention portions 28 to lock one or more of the first part 22 and the second part 24. This latching mechanism may be combined with overlap at the joint 25 so as to lock both the first part 22 and the second part 24 of the lid with only a single latch. It is further contemplated that multiple latching mechanisms may be provided, e.g., one per lid part, with or without overlap at the joint 25, to independently control latching of the lid 20.

[0054] Turning now to FIG. 9, a system 900 comprising at least two of the vaping cessation device 1, a mobile device 4 (e.g., smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, fitness tracker, smart glasses, augmented and / or virtual reality device, personal digital assistant, laptop, and / or any other portable electronic device capable of wireless communication and data processing, without limit), one or more servers 5 (e.g., a physical server, virtual server, cloud computing instance, distributed computing system, edge computing device, and / or any other computing device capable of processing requests and delivering data to other computing devices over a network), and a network 3 (e.g., the internet, local area network, wide area network, wireless local area network, Wi-Fi network, cellular network such as 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G, or 6G, Bluetooth, near field communication, Zigbee, Z-wave, and / or the like, without limit). The vaping cessation device 1 may be communicatively connected to the mobile device 4 directly (e.g., via NFC or Bluetooth, without limit) and / or indirectly (e.g., via network 3). Similarly, the vaping cessation device 1 and / or the mobile device 4 may be communicatively connected to the server 5 via the network. Any of the one or more servers 5 and the mobile device 4 may be configured as a central system, hub, or platform to control and call various data at different times to execute a plurality of workflow actions.

[0055] Turning now to FIG. 10, any of the controller 60, the mobile device 4, and / or the server 5 may comprise one or more: processors 61 (e.g., central processing units, graphical processing units, neural processing units, AI processors, application-specific integrated circuits or ASICs, field-programmable gate arrays or FPGAs, and / or the like, without limit), input and / or output hardware 62 (e.g., data interfaces, signal interfaces, serial buses, user interfaces and / or input devices, display interfaces, speakers, microphones, cameras, sensors, and the like, without limit), network interfaces 63 (e.g., modem, WiFi, Bluetooth®, mobile communications hardware, and / or the like, without limit), computer-readable memory units 64 (e.g., non-transitory volatile storage, read-only memory, random access memory, flash memory, and / or the like), and / or computer-readable storage devices 65 (e.g., non-transitory persistent storage), in any combination. Any of the controller 60, the mobile device 4, and / or the server 5 may, additionally and / or alternatively, comprise a microcontroller, “system on a chip” architecture, and / or the like, without limit.

[0056] One or more of the memory units 64 and / or storage devices 65 may contain computer code, instructions, software, or the like that, when executed by the one or more processors 61, cause the one or more processors 61 and / or the computing device vaping cessation device 1 to carry out any of the methods, processes, and the like described herein.

[0057] In some aspects, the memory unit 64 and / or storage device 65 may have stored therein / thereon any combination of: scheduling logic 67a, retention mechanism operational logic 67b, locking mechanism operational logic 67c, display logic 67d, interface logic 67e, charging logic 67f, networking logic 67g, sensor logic 67h, alarm logic 67i, and / or the like, without limit. Each logic component may include code, software, functions, methods, and / or and the like, without limit, that, when executed by one or more processors 61, cause the processors 61 to carry out and / or otherwise facilitate the performance of those corresponding method steps as set forth herein. In some aspects, the memory unit 64 and / or storage device 65 may have stored therein / thereon any combination of scheduling data 68a (e.g., scheduling information describing how often the vaping cessation device 1 may be opened, intervals between availability, and / or the like), usage data 68b, historical data 68c, user data 68d, credentials 68e, and / or the like, without limit.

[0058] In some aspects, any portion of the controller 60 and / or function performed thereby may be implemented by the mobile device 4, the server 5, and / or other comparable remote computing device and / or the like that is communicatively coupled with the controller 60 in furtherance of the functions described herein.

[0059] It should also be noted that the depiction of FIG. 10 and the disposition of any of the foregoing relative to the memory unit 64 and / or the storage device 65 is intended to be non-limiting. It is contemplated that any of the logic and / or data components may be provided on any of the memory unit 64 and / or the storage device 65 in any arrangement and / or combination. That is to say, all of the components may be stored within the memory unit 64, or all of the components may be stored within the storage device 65, or both, or in any other distribution without deviating from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0060] Turning now to FIG. 11, with continued reference to FIGS. 1-10, an exemplary method according to one or more aspects of the disclosure herein is shown.

[0061] In step 1100, an e-cigarette device 2 may be received within a case 10 of the vaping cessation device 1. As noted above, the e-cigarette device 2 may be inserted and / or otherwise received within the case 10 along with a saddle 14 for stabilizing the e-cigarette device 2 therein.

[0062] In some aspects, insertion of the e-cigarette device 2 may be detected by one or more sensors 110 which, in turn, cause the vaping cessation device 1 to activate or otherwise turn on. In some aspects, a user may manipulate the user interface, or button 80, to activate or otherwise turn on the vaping cessation device 1.

[0063] In step 1200, a controller of the vaping cessation device 1 controls the retention mechanism 40 to move from an open state to a blocking state, thereby locking the e-cigarette device 2 within the case 10 of the vaping cessation device 1 and / or preventing a user from removing the e-cigarette device 2 from the case 10. In some aspects, the retention mechanism 40 may be configured to automatically toggle between the blocking and open states according to a predetermined schedule, such as once every week, every two weeks, every four weeks, and / or the like to permit removal of the e-cigarette device 2 from the case 10 by the user for the purposes of charging the e-cigarette device, servicing it, replacing it (e.g., in the case of a disposable e-cigarette device), and / or the like. In some aspects, the frequency at which the retention mechanism 40 toggles between the blocking and open states may be configured and / or customized by the user, such as through the button 80 and / or via a connected mobile device 4, as discussed below. In some aspects, when the retention mechanism 40 toggles to the open state, the controller 60 may monitor via one or more sensors 110 whether and / or when the e-cigarette device 2 has been removed from the case 10 and make ready to return to the blocking state when the e-cigarette device 2 and / or a new e-cigarette device 2 is replaced within the case. In some aspects, the controller 60 may await an input from the user, such as via the button 80 or from mobile device 4, before returning the retention mechanism 40 to the blocking state.

[0064] In step 1300, the controller of the vaping cessation device 1 toggles the locking mechanism 50 between the locked and unlocked state according to a predetermined schedule, a predetermined frequency, a predetermined start / stop time, a predetermined usage pattern, a predetermined delay and / or period between usages, and / or the like. As above, the specific schedule, patterns, and / or the like may be configured and / or customized by the user via the button 80 and / or the mobile device 4. Accordingly, when the locking mechanism 50 is in the unlocked state, the user may open the lid 20 to use the e-cigarette device 2 contained within the case 10. As above, once the locking mechanism 50 is set to the unlocked state, the controller 60 may monitor via one or more sensors 110 whether and / or when the lid has been opened and may return the locking mechanism 50 to the locked state or make ready to return the locking mechanism 50 to the locked state when it is detected via the one or more sensors 110 that the lid 20 has been closed. Similarly, in some aspects, the controller 60 may await an input from the user, such as via the button 80 or from mobile device 4, before returning the locking mechanism 50 to the locked state. Once returned to the locked state, the controller 60 may then await the next scheduled opening time, delay, and / or the like before toggling the locking mechanism 50 into the unlocked state again.

[0065] By way of example, and without limitation, the customizable restrictions may include: daily puff limit, wait time, penalty type, self-lock one time, and other custom restrictions within restricted mode or settings. For example, regarding the one-time self-lock of the vaping cessation device 1, the user may currently have a five minute wait time, but desires to adjust it, such as increase it to thirty minutes, just this one time. This may not take effect for the whole day, but rather just for the next thirty minutes, so as to assist with better rationing a user's available puffs and / or the like.

[0066] Continuing with the above example, if the user decides to lock up the vaping cessation device 1 for the additional amount of time, and if the new lock time of thirty minutes is greater than the existing lock time of five minutes, then the new lock time may override a current lock time for this one instance and in accordance with the input that the user provides as the new lock time. After termination of the new lock time, the controller 60 may toggle the locking mechanism to the unlocked state. After the lid 20 is opened and the user takes a puff and then closes, the vaping cessation device 1 may be configured to return to a normal lock time, interval, and / or the like. If there is currently no current lock time and the vaping cessation device 1 is unlocked, then the locking mechanism may be toggled to the locking state in accordance with the new lock time.

[0067] The vaping cessation device may be configured to operate in a plurality of modes, including a first mode of operation including a monitor mode, a second mode of operation including restriction mode, a third mode of operation including a reduction or quitting mode, or any combination thereof.

[0068] Under a monitor mode of operation, the vaping cessation device 1 does not engage either of the locking mechanism or retention mechanism, but rather simply monitors a user's usage of the e-cigarette device 2 via the one or more sensors 110 by monitoring how many times the lid 20 is opened, how long the lid 20 is opened for, whether the e-cigarette device 2 is kept within the case 10, where the vaping cessation device 1 was opened and / or used, and / or the like. The data may be collected over any desired monitoring period (e.g., over a 6 hour period, 12 hours, 1 day, several days, 1 week, 1 month, and / or the like).

[0069] Under a second mode of operation, usage of the vaping cessation device 1 may be restricted. By way of example and without limitation, usage of the vaping cessation device 1 may be restricted to a number of openings of the vaping cessation device 1 over a predetermined time range. For example, the vaping cessation device 1 may be configured to open only so many times within a given period (6 hours, 12 hours, 1 day, and / or the like), to open only once every so often (e.g., at least 5 minutes between openings, at least 30 minutes, at least an hour, and / or the like), to open only when the user is in a particular geographic location (e.g., such as determined by a GPS unit or similar provided in a connected mobile device 4), and / or the like, without limit.

[0070] Under a third mode of operation, a plan for usage of the vaping cessation device 1 may be generated that assists in the cessation of vaping. In particular, the plan may be generated and customized for a particular user based on their vaping history over the predetermined time range and / or may accommodate user inputs and / or preferences. For example, in accordance with the plan, the user may be permitted to make incremental adjustments to their usage. Moreover, the plan may be integrated with, by way of example, existing cognitive behavior therapy programs or an artificial intelligent assistant module to provide support or execute the adjustments in response thereto.

[0071] In certain embodiments, the application may transmit information on a type of penalty for running out of or exhausting vape puffs for that day. If a value exceeds a threshold, a hard penalty may be imposed and the vaping cessation device 1 may lock permanently until a designated time, including but not limited to, midnight. If the value does not exceed the threshold, a soft penalty may be imposed and the vaping may lock for a predetermined time period, and then increase a wait time to, for example, one hour between uses. Moreover, the vaping cessation device 1 may include an internal clock to know a time of day and be configured to enact the type of penalty even if disconnected from application. In certain embodiments, the soft penalty time may be updated or controlled by the application.

[0072] It is further contemplated that usage and / or a cessation plan may be tracked according to a point system, such as by docking points for failure to adhere to the set plan. Moreover, the time that the e-cigarette device 2 is not placed back into the vaping cessation device 1 may be tracked and displayed to convey how well the user is adhering to one or more portions of the customized plan.

[0073] Further to the above, the vaping cessation device 1 may be communicatively coupled to a server 5 and / or a mobile device 4 to provide greater customization options, data recording options, and plan setting options than might be achievable using the button 80 of the vaping cessation device 1 alone. Accordingly, the mobile device 4 and / or any computer device in communication with the server 5 may be provided with a software application or the like through which the user may control the vaping cessation device 1, set schedules, adjust parameters relating thereto, and have this information transmitted to the vaping cessation device 1 for operation. The software application may likewise receive data from the vaping cessation device 1 for the purposes of displaying the user's usage data, history, compliance metrics, and / or the like.

[0074] Further to the connection between devices, any alarms, indicators, and / or the like normally issued by the vaping cessation device 1 may, additionally and / or alternatively, be conveyed through the mobile device 4 and / or a computing device in communication with the server 5 to the user. For example, a user may receive on their mobile device 4 a text message, push notification, and / or the like that contains availability information that indicates the vaping cessation device 1 is unlocked and ready for use, that indicates how much time remains until the vaping cessation device 1 is available again for use, that indicates how many puffs remain for the current period, and / or the like, without limit.

[0075] It may be appreciated that the above descriptions set forth a vaping cessation device, and systems and / or methods involving the same for mechanically restricting a user's access to an e-cigarette device except according to a predetermined scheduled, frequency, and / or the like to assist with and / or otherwise facilitate the cessation of consumption of such devices. The rapidness and ease of access to the e-cigarette device 2 in these ways can help encourage the user to keep the e-cigarette device 2 inside the vaping cessation device 1 and prevent its removal therefrom, as well as reduce or eliminate the ability for the user to cheat or fall off cessation plans that may be personalized or otherwise customized based on the user's actual usage data or metrics.

[0076] It is noted that recitations herein of a component of the present disclosure being “configured” or “programmed” in a particular way, to embody a particular property, or to function in a particular manner, are structural recitations, as opposed to recitations of intended use. More specifically, the references herein to the manner in which a component is “configured” or “programmed” denotes an existing physical condition of the component and, as such, is to be taken as a definite recitation of the structural characteristics of the component.

[0077] The order of execution or performance of the operations in examples of the disclosure illustrated and described herein is not essential, unless otherwise specified. That is, the operations may be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified, and examples of the disclosure may include additional or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation is within the scope of aspects of the disclosure.

[0078] It is noted that the terms “substantially” and “about” and “approximately” may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

[0079] While particular aspects have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A vaping cessation device, comprising:a case configured to at least partially contain an e-cigarette device;a lid movable relative to the case, the lid configured to at least partially restrict access to a mouthpiece of the e-cigarette device;a locking mechanism that is toggleable between a locked state and an unlocked state; anda controller configured to operate the locking mechanism,wherein, in the locked state, the locking mechanism restricts the lid from moving relative to the case.

2. The vaping cessation device according to claim 1, further comprising a retention mechanism that is toggleable between a blocking state and an open state,wherein the controller is further configured to operate the retention mechanism such that, in the blocking state, the retention mechanism is configured to restrict the e-cigarette device from being removed from the case independent of the locking mechanism and / or the lid.

3. The vaping cessation device according to claim 1, further comprising a user interface and a display.

4. The vaping cessation device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one sensor for monitoring opening and closing of the lid.

5. The vaping cessation device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one charge port, andwherein the at least one charge port is configured to charge both a battery of the vaping cessation device and the e-cigarette device contained therein.

6. The vaping cessation device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to operate the locking mechanism according to a predetermined schedule.

7. The vaping cessation device according to claim 6, wherein the predetermined schedule defines a minimum amount of time between usages of the e-cigarette device.

8. The vaping cessation device according to claim 6, wherein the predetermined schedule defines a predetermined number of usages per time period.

9. The vaping cessation device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to transmit availability information to a mobile device of a user.

10. The vaping cessation device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to receive scheduling information from a mobile device of a user.

11. A vaping cessation system comprising:a vaping cessation device; andat least one of a mobile device and a server,wherein the vaping cessation device comprises:a case configured to at least partially contain an e-cigarette device,a lid movable relative to the case, the lid configured to at least partially restrict access to a mouthpiece of the e-cigarette device,a locking mechanism that is toggleable between a locked state and an unlocked state, anda controller configured to operate the locking mechanism;wherein, in the locked state, the locking mechanism restricts the lid from moving relative to the case; andwherein the vaping cessation device is communicatively coupled to the at least one of the mobile device and the server.

12. The vaping cessation system according to claim 11, wherein the vaping cessation device further comprises a retention mechanism that is toggleable between a blocking state and an open state; andwherein the controller is further configured to operate the retention mechanism such that, in the blocking state, the retention mechanism is configured to restrict the e-cigarette device from being removed from the case independent of the locking mechanism and / or the lid.

13. The vaping cessation system according to claim 11, wherein the controller is further configured to transmit availability information to the at least one of the mobile device and the server.

14. The vaping cessation system according to claim 11, wherein the controller is further configured to receive scheduling information from the at least one of the mobile device and the server.

15. The vaping cessation system according to claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to operate the locking mechanism according to a predetermined schedule.

16. The vaping cessation system according to claim 15, wherein the predetermined schedule defines a minimum amount of time between usages of the e-cigarette device.

17. The vaping cessation system according to claim 15, wherein the predetermined schedule defines a predetermined number of usages per time period.

18. A method for vaping cessation, comprising:receiving an e-cigarette device within a case of a vaping cessation device, the vaping cessation device further comprising a lid movable relative to the case, a locking mechanism that is toggleable between a locked state and an unlocked state, and a controller configured to operate the locking mechanism, wherein, in the locked state, the locking mechanism restricts the lid from moving relative to the case; andtoggling the locking mechanism between the locked state and the unlocked state according to a predetermined schedule,wherein the predetermined schedule defines at least one of a minimum amount of time between usages of the e-cigarette device and a predetermined number of usages of the e-cigarette device per time period.

19. The method for vaping cessation according to claim 18, further comprising:toggling a retention mechanism between a blocking state and an open state according to a second predetermined schedule,wherein the vaping cessation device further comprises the retention mechanism, the retention mechanism is toggleable between the blocking state and the open state, and in the blocking state, the retention mechanism is configured to restrict the e-cigarette device from being removed from the case independent of the locking mechanism and / or the lid.

20. The method for vaping cessation according to claim 18, further comprising:receiving, from a mobile device, information setting the predetermined schedule.

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