Puffing session control method for aerosol provision system, and aerosol provision system

Abstract

This embodiment of the invention discloses a puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system and the aerosol provision system itself. The system can accommodate aerosol-generating material sufficient for at least two puffing sessions, the method comprises: determining the start of a puffing session; monitoring puffing parameters related to puffing behavior of the aerosol provision system during the puffing session; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters. Based on this invention, users can monitor their puffing sessions more closely, This helps to prevent them from engaging in extended, unconscious puffing, which could be unhealthy. Additionally, the invention facilitates user feedback regarding the consumption of aerosol-generating material.

Description

[0001] Puffing session control method for aerosol provision system, and aerosol provision system

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] This invention is related to the field of aerosol provision, particularly relating to a puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system and the aerosol provision system.

[0004] Technical Background

[0005] Traditional cigarettes offer a tangible experience of a puffing session. For instance, once a traditional cigarette is lit, the user is aware that the session has begun. With a clear demarcation between the tobacco and the filter, the user can easily recognize when the session is nearing its end as the cigarette burns down to this dividing line. This feature of traditional cigarettes provides visual cues, signaling the start and end of a puffing session.

[0006] Drawing from this traditional experience, users can be more aware of their smoking process, understanding the duration of their puffing and anticipating the end of the session. This awareness facilitates timely breaks to avoid prolonged, unhealthy smoking habits. It also helps gauge cigarette consumption, enabling timely actions like replenishing their supply.

[0007] An aerosol provision system refers to a system that contains aerosol-generating material and produces aerosol by heating aerosol-generating material (like tobacco), rather than burning, for user puff. Electronic cigarettes, a typical application of aerosol provision systems, differ from traditional cigarettes as they do not provide explicit cues for the beginning and end of a puffing session. This lack of clear session indicators, contrasting with the habitual experience of smoking traditional cigarettes, can result in a disconcerting experience for users. Without these session-based cues, it becomes challenging for users to decide when to stop vaping or to gauge the consumption of the aerosol-generating material, making it difficult to respond timely to the material's depletion.

[0008] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system. Content of Invention

[0009] The invention aims to solve at least one of the technical issues present in the prior art. Therefore, this invention disclosed a puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system and the aerosol provision system itself. This is designed to offer users an experience similar to traditional cigarette smoking, enhancing user experience with the electronic system. Furthermore, it aims to reduce unintentional prolonged usage by making users more aware of their consumption patterns and helping them to respond timely to the consumption of the aerosol-generating material.

[0010] The first aspect of the embodiment of this invention discloses a puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system, the system can accommodate aerosol-generating material sufficient for at least two puffing sessions, the method comprises: determining the start of a puffing session; monitoring puffing parameters related to puffing behavior of the aerosol provision system during the puffing session; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters.

[0011] By monitoring puffing parameters during use, it's possible to determine whether a puffing session has ended. This approach can provide users with an experience similar to smoking traditional cigarettes, aligning with their habitual usage and enhancing the overall user experience.

[0012] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, at the end of the puffing session, the system is controlled to enter a sleep mode. In this sleep mode, the system is unable to initiate heating, effectively "forcing" the user to stop puffing. This feature helps prevent health issues associated with prolonged puffing sessions.

[0013] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the start of the puffing session is determined based on at least one of the following: determining the user's first puff after activation of the system; determining the user's first puff after the end of the previous puffing session; the system being in sleep mode for a preset time; the system being in sleep mode for a preset time and detecting the user's first puff after the end of the previous puffing session.

[0014] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining the puffing session to end when the monitored puffing parameters reach or exceed a preset puffing parameter threshold, or fall within a preset puffing parameter range; or, determining the puffing session to end when the change in the monitored puffing parameters reaches or exceeds a preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or falls within a preset change range of puffing parameters.

[0015] The preset puffing parameter range, threshold for changes in puffing parameters, or the range of changes in puffing parameters can be pre-configured in the aerosol provision system at the time of manufacturing. Alternatively, these parameters can be periodically or real-time acquired from external devices during use. Additionally, users have the option to select or modify these parameters after purchase. Therefore, in one aspect, users are allowed to choose or change the puffing parameter threshold, puffing parameter range, puffing parameter change threshold, or puffing parameter change range according to their personal preferences and needs.

[0016] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the aerosol provision system has at least two heating power levels, and under different heating powers, the preset puffing parameter threshold, the preset puffing parameter range, the preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or the preset change range of puffing parameters vary. For instance, a higher heating power can produce more aerosol in the same amount of time. Therefore, to generate the same quantity of aerosol, less time is needed at higher heating powers. Consequently, the cumulative puffing time threshold can be set lower for higher heating powers compared to lower heating powers.

[0017] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining the current heating power, and the corresponding preset puffing parameter threshold, preset puffing parameter range, preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or preset change range of puffing parameters for the current heating power; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters and the corresponding preset threshold, range, or change threshold / range for the current heating power.

[0018] In scenarios where multiple heating power levels are available, and users are likely to switch between these levels within a single puffing session, it becomes challenging to determine a fixed puffing parameter threshold for comparison. To address this, the invention proposes a method to convert puffing parameters based on heating power, enabling a comparison of these parameters under a standardized heating power. This conversion method involves adjusting the puffing parameters to reflect a consistent power level, allowing for a more accurate assessment of puffing behavior across different power settings. Specifically, in one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the aerosol provision system has at least two heating power levels, comprising a standard heating power, corresponding to the preset puffing parameter threshold, preset puffing parameter range, preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or preset change range of puffing parameters; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining the current heating power; converting the puffing parameters to standard puffing parameters under the standard heating power, based on the relationship between the current heating power and the standard heating power; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the standard puffing parameters and the corresponding preset threshold, range, or change threshold / range.

[0019] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the puffing parameters comprise at least one of the following: cumulative working time of the system; user's cumulative puffing time; user's cumulative puffing count; the cumulative amount of aerosol produced; cumulative consumption of the article.

[0020] Based on the analysis of puffing parameters from multiple sessions, users can more accurately estimate aerosol consumption and remaining levels, allowing for timely and informed feedback.

[0021] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the puffing parameters comprise at least one of the following within a puffing session: cumulative working time of the system during one puffing session; user's cumulative puffing time during one puffing session; user's cumulative puffing count during one puffing session; the cumulative amount of aerosol produced during one puffing session; cumulative consumption of the article during one puffing session.

[0022] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, determining whether the puffing session has ended comprises at least one of the following: determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative working time reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative working time threshold; determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative puffing time reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative puffing time threshold; determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative puffing count reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative puffing count threshold; determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative amount of aerosol produced reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative amount of aerosol produced threshold; determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative consumption of the article reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative consumption threshold.

[0023] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, within a puffing session: the preset cumulative puffing time threshold is 20-40 seconds; and / or, the preset cumulative puffing count threshold is 7-15 times; and / or, the preset cumulative working time threshold is 3-5 minutes; and / or, the preset cumulative amount of aerosol produced threshold is 50-90mg; and / or, the preset cumulative consumption threshold is 0.08-0.15ml.

[0024] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, when the puffing parameters comprise multiple types of parameters, determining whether the puffing session has ended comprises: jointly determining whether the puffing session has ended based on at least two types of parameters.

[0025] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the method further comprises: during the puffing session, when detecting that the cartridge of the system is removed from the device of the aerosol provision system, determining the last puffing session before removal has ended.

[0026] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the method further comprises: during the puffing session, when detecting that the cartridge of the system is removed from the device of the aerosol provision system, recording the puffing parameters monitored after replacing the cartridge into the last puffing session before the replacement, to determine whether the last puffing session has ended. Replacing a cartridge in an e-cigarette is a quick action, and starting a new session immediately after this replacement may lead to inaccuracies, such as brief pre-replacement puffs being counted as a full session. To avoid this discrepancy, it's proposed to continuously track the puffing parameters before and after the cartridge replacement. This approach ensures a more accurate assessment of the puffing session.

[0027] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the method further comprises: outputting an indication of the end of the puffing session when the puffing session ends.

[0028] The indication of a puffing session's end can be provided to the user through any perceivable kind of signal. Specifically, in one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the indication of the end of the puffing session is output through at least one of the following: a vibration indication output by a vibration element; a sound indication output by a sound element; a light indication output by a lighting element.

[0029] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the system outputs at least one of the following light indications through the lighting element for a first preset duration: the lighting element flashes; the lighting element emits light of a preset color; a preset number of lighting elements are illuminated; the lighting elements are illuminated in a preset order; the lighting element emits light of a preset brightness.

[0030] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the first preset duration is 8-12 seconds.

[0031] The first preset time for the device can be pre-configured during manufacturing and can also be customized by users after purchase. This allows users to select a first preset time from multiple pre-configured options. For instance, some users might need longer durations to recognize light signals and could opt for an extended first preset time. Conversely, others who discern light signals more quickly or prefer not to spend much time on such indications might choose a shorter preset duration.

[0032] In this invention, upon determining the end of a puffing session, the system can provide an ending signal to the user without shutting down or entering sleep mode, allowing continued use. The system simply provides this indication for user reference.

[0033] In another embodiment of this invention, upon determining the end of a puffing session, the system can provide an indication to the user that the session has ended and then either shut down or go into sleep mode. This helps the user understand that the session has concluded and effectively stops them from continuing to puff. In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the method further comprises: controlling the lighting element of the aerosol system to output an indication of the remaining battery level of the aerosol provision system when determining the end of the puffing session. In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the indication of the remaining battery level is output after a second preset interval following the determination of the end of the puffing session.

[0034] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the second preset interval is 0-12 seconds.

[0035] The second preset time in the system can be pre-configured during manufacturing and is also adjustable by users after purchase. This flexibility allows users to choose from a range of preset times. For instance, some users may prefer a longer interval than typical for battery indication, and can thus select a longer second preset time. Conversely, others might want a quicker battery indication and can opt for a shorter preset time. In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the shape of the aerosol-generating material is determined based on the shape of the the containing chamber that houses it. This material could be in various forms, such as liquid, gel, powder, granules, loose fibrous, or loose filamentous materials.

[0036] The second aspect of this invention discloses an aerosol provision system, the system comprises: a housing for containing the article; a controller, configured to execute the puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system as described in the first aspect; and the article, which comprises the aerosol-generating material.

[0037] Based on the embodiments of this invention, by monitoring puffing parameters related to the user's puffing behavior, it's possible to assess the progress of their puffing session and determine its conclusion. This approach offers an experience similar to traditional cigarette smoking, aligning with user habits and enhancing their overall experience. Moreover, this controlled puffing session can help reduce unintended prolonged usage and allows users to better gauge their consumption of the aerosol-producing material, enabling timely adjustments or feedback.

[0038] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be partly given in the following description, will become apparent from the following description, or will be learned through the practice of the invention. Description of drawing

[0039] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the disclosed content of the present invention will become more understandable. It is easily understood by those skilled in the art that these drawings are only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Moreover, similar numbers in the figures are used to represent similar components, among which:

[0040] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram of the aerosol provision system structure in an embodiment of this invention.

[0041] Figure 2: A flowchart of the method in Embodiment One of this invention.

[0042] Figure 3 : A flowchart of the method in Embodiment Two of this invention.

[0043] Figure 4: A flowchart of a method in Embodiment Four of this invention.

[0044] Figure 5: Another flowchart of a method in Embodiment Four.

[0045] Figure 6: Yet another flowchart of a method in Embodiment Four.

[0046] Description of drawing Label

[0047] 100: Aerosol Provision System; 101 : cartridge; 102: Cartomizer; 103: Power Source; 104: Control; 105: Mouthpiece; 106: Light Emitting Element; 107: Housing

[0048] Detailed Description

[0049] The following describes some embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are only for explaining the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0050] As used herein, the term "delivery system" is intended to encompass systems that deliver at least one substance to a user in use, and includes: combustible aerosol provision systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for roll-your-own or for make-your-own cigarettes (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other smokable material); non-combustible aerosol provision systems that release compounds from an aerosol-generating material without combusting the aerosol-generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials; and aeosol-free delivery systems that deliver the at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.

[0051] According to the present disclosure, a "combustible" aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is combusted or burned during use in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0052] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a system selected from the group consisting of a cigarette, a cigarillo and a cigar.

[0053] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to a component for use in a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a filter, a filter rod, a filter segment, a tobacco rod, a spill, an aerosol-modifying agent release component such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead, or a paper such as a plug wrap, a tipping paper or a cigarette paper.

[0054] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0055] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

[0056] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0057] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0058] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0059] Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device.

[0060] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0061] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate which may be energised so as to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source.

[0062] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol-modifying agent.

[0063] In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol-modifying agent.

[0064] In some embodiments, the delivery system is an aerosol-free delivery system that delivers at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.

[0065] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material or a material that is not intended to be aerosolised. As appropriate, either material may comprise one or more active constituents, one or more flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0066] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance. The active substance as used herein may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may for example be selected from nutraceuticals, nootropics, psychoactives. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may comprise for example nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or another botanical.

[0067] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B 12.

[0068] As noted herein, the active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.

[0069] As noted herein, the active substance may comprise or be derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term "botanical" includes any material derived from plants including, but not limited to, extracts, leaves, bark, fibres, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husk, shells or the like. Alternatively, the material may comprise an active compound naturally existing in a botanical, obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, shreds, strips, sheets, or the like.

[0070] Example botanicals are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice (liquorice), matcha, mate, orange skin, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed (anise), basil, bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, beefsteak plant, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab or any combination thereof. The mint may be chosen from the following mint varieties: Mentha Arventis, Mentha c.v., Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata c.v., Mentha piperita c.v, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Memtha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata c.v. and Mentha suaveolens.

[0071] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is tobacco. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from eucalyptus, star anise , cocoa and hemp.

[0072] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from rooibos and fennel.

[0073] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises a flavour. As used herein, the terms "flavour" and "flavourant" refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatosensorial sensation in a product for adult consumers. They may include naturally occurring flavour materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (liquorice), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange skin, rose, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, maijoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, liquid such as an oil, solid such as a powder, or gas.

[0074] In some embodiments, the flavour comprises menthol, spearmint and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits and / or redberry. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from cannabis.

[0075] In some embodiments, the flavour may comprise a sensate, which is intended to achieve a somatosensorial sensation which are usually chemically induced and perceived by the stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or in place of aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents providing heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable heat effect agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether and a suitable cooling agent may be, but not limited to eucolyptol, WS-3.

[0076] Aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and / or flavourants. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an " amorphous solid" , which may alternatively be referred to as a " monolithic solid" (i.e. non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may for example comprise from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid.

[0077] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.

[0078] The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-Erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0079] The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0080] The material may be present on or in a support, to form a substrate. The support may, for example, be or comprise paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, the support comprises a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or either side of the material. A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol-modifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may, for example, comprise combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0081] A susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrically-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically-conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. The device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein.

[0082] An aerosol-modifying agent is a substance, typically located downstream of the aerosol generation area, that is configured to modify the aerosol generated, for example by changing the taste, flavour, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosol-modifying agent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, comprise one or more of a flavourant, a colourant, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material.

[0083] An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

[0084] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems (which may also be referred to as vapour delivery systems) such as nebulisers or e-cigarettes. Throughout the following description the term "e-cigarette" or "electronic cigarette" may sometimes be used, but it will be appreciated this term may be used interchangeably with aerosol delivery system / device and electronic aerosol delivery system / device. Furthermore, and as is common in the technical field, the terms "aerosol" and "vapour", and related terms such as "vaporise", "volatilise" and "aerosolise", may generally be used interchangeably.

[0085] Aerosol delivery systems (e-cigarettes) often, though not always, comprise a modular assembly comprising a reusable device part and a replaceable (disposable / consumable) cartridge part. Often, the replaceable cartridge part will comprise the aerosol generating material and the vaporiser (which may collectively be called a "cartomizer") and the reusable device part will comprise the power provision (e.g. rechargeable power source) and control circuitry. It will be appreciated these different parts may comprise further elements depending on functionality. For example, the reusable device part will often comprise a user interface for receiving user input and displaying operating status characteristics, and the replaceable cartridge device part in some cases comprises a temperature sensor for helping to control temperature. Cartridges are electrically and mechanically coupled to the control unit for use, for example using a screw thread, bayonet, or magnetic coupling with appropriately arranged electrical contacts. When the aerosol generating material in a cartridge is exhausted, or the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge having a different aerosol generating material, the cartridge may be removed from the reusable part and a replacement cartridge attached in its place. Systems and devices conforming to this type of two-part modular configuration may generally be referred to as two-part system s / devices.

[0086] It is common for electronic cigarettes to have a generally elongate shape. For the sake of providing a concrete example, certain embodiments of the disclosure will be taken to comprise this kind of generally elongate two-part system employing disposable cartridges. However, it will be appreciated that the underlying principles described herein may equally be adopted for different configurations, for example single-part systems or modular systems comprising more than two parts, refillable devices and single-use disposables, as well as other overall shapes, for example based on so-called box-mod high performance devices that typically have a boxier shape. More generally, it will be appreciated certain embodiments of the disclosure are based on aerosol delivery systems which are operationally configured to provide functionality in accordance with the principles described herein and the constructional aspects of systems configured to provide the functionality in accordance with certain embodiments of the disclosure is not of primary significance.

[0087] As the prior art of aerosol provision systems does not offer the same puffing session experience as traditional cigarettes, this invention innovatively proposes monitoring puffing parameters related to the puffing behavior of the system. This approach determines the end of a puffing session based on these parameters, thereby offering an experience similar to traditional cigarettes. This alignment with users' smoking habits enhances the user experience. Furthermore, this puffing session insight reduces prolonged, unconscious puffing and helps users to gauge their aerosol consumption more accurately, allowing timely adjustments.

[0088] The following sections will explain the method of controlling puffing sessions in the aerosol provision system and the system itself as proposed in this invention by specific embodiments.

[0089] Embodiment one

[0090] As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol provision system 100 comprises a structure consisting of a housing 107, a container 101 for the aerosol generating material, a cartomizer 102, a power source 103, a controller 104, and a mouthpiece 105. In operation, the controller 104 controls the power source 103 to supply power to the cartomizer 102. The cartomizer 102 heats up upon receiving power, heating the aerosol generating material to produce an aerosol. The user then inhales the aerosol through the mouthpiece 105.

[0091] To provide indications of the system's status, such as heating or sleep mode, the aerosol provision system 100 comprises a light emitting component 106 as shown in Figure 1. In this invention, the aerosol provision system's cartridge is designed to accommodate aerosol generating material sufficient for multiple puffing sessions. The design assumes that if the chamber could only hold material for one puffing session, users could infer the session's end based on the exhaustion of the material, eliminating the need for additional monitoring to determine the session's conclusion.

[0092] In the embodiment of this invention, the aerosol generating material can take various forms. In one embodiment, it can be a liquid, gel, powder, granules, loose fibrous material like tobacco, or other similar materials. These materials are generally fluid and take the shape of the container they are in. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating material might be in a fixed shape, like processed tobacco sticks, designed to last for multiple usage sessions rather than just one. This versatility in the type of aerosol generating material allows for varied user experiences and preferences.

[0093] As shown in Figure 2, it discloses a puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system, which is implemented in the system's controller, the method comprises:

[0094] S21 , determining the start of a puffing session;

[0095] After the system is activated and the first puffing session ends, the start of a new puffing session can be determined based on the detection of the user's first puff following the end of the previous session.

[0096] In some embodiment, following the conclusion of a puffing session, the system enters a sleep mode. A new puffing session is initiated when the system remains in sleep mode for a preset duration.

[0097] Considering that after reaching the preset time in sleep mode, users may not initiate puffing and might remain inactive for a considerable time. This inactive duration could be mistakenly counted in the puffing parameters to determine the puffing session, potentially leading to the misjudgment of considering situations where the user either did not puff at all or puffed for a short duration as the end of the puffing session. To mitigate this, in an embodiment of this invention, when the device is in sleep mode and reaches the preset time, and the user's first puff after the end of the previous puffing session is detected, the start of a new puffing session is determined, which reduces the possibility of misjudgment.

[0098] S22, monitoring puffing parameters related to puffing behavior of the aerosol provision system during the puffing session.

[0099] In traditional cigarettes, considering health aspects, a single cigarette stick is used to define a puffing session, with a preset quantity of aerosol-generating material to manage the user's health during smoking. In this invention, specific puffing parameters that represent the user's aerosol intake are selected to determine the puffing session. These parameters are related to the system's puffing behavior, comprising user's puffing behavior or the system's own states.

[0100] Based on statistics of typical users, it's often found that a traditional cigarette is usually consumed within 4 minutes of being lit. Therefore, in this invention, one of the parameters to measure aerosol intake during a puffing session is the cumulative working time of the system, specifically the total heating time.

[0101] The system being active does not necessarily mean the user is puffing. Direct user puffing is a better reflection of aerosol consumption compared to the system's cumulative active time. Based on statistics of typical users, finishing a cigarette usually requires 7-15 puffs, or a total of 20-40 seconds of pure puffing time. Therefore, in a puffing session, the user's cumulative number of puffs or cumulative puffing time can be used as a puffing parameter to measure aerosol consumption and determine the end of a puffing session.

[0102] Given the variation in individual users' puffing duration per puff, the total puffing volume can vary. Therefore, the cumulative puffing time, as opposed to the cumulative number of puffs, can more accurately reflect the total volume of aerosol inhaled by a user.

[0103] In the embodiment of this invention, the cumulative amount of aerosol produced or the total consumption of the article during a puffing session can also be used as a parameter for measuring aerosol intake, to determine the end of a puffing session.

[0104] In the embodiment of this invention, the system can monitor puffing parameters using timers, sensors, and controllers.

[0105] In one implementation of this invention, the system's cumulative operational time is determined by the following method: during a puffing session, the controller controls a timer to record the operational time of the system's heater. This time records the heater's operational duration to determine the system's cumulative operational time. The timer records time regardless of whether the user is actively puffing or not, as long as the heater is operational.

[0106] In another implementation of this invention, the user's cumulative number of puffs is determined as follows: the system's sensor is utilized to detect puffing through the system during a puffing session. the controller determines the start and end of the user's puffing based on the sensor's detection. the controller counts each puffing as one puff based on the detected start and end of puffing and calculates the user's cumulative number of puffing.

[0107] In another implementation of this invention, the user's cumulative puffing time is determined as follows: the system's sensor is used to detect the user's puffing through the system during a puffing session. the controller determines the start and end of each puffing based on the sensor's detection. the controller determines a single puffing session based on the start and end of the user's puffing, a timer is used to record its duration, and the cumulative puffing time is calculated based on these durations. Note that the interval time between two puffings is not comprised in this calculation.

[0108] In another implementation of this invention, the cumulative amount of aerosol produced or the cumulative amount of the article consumed can be determined using sensors to measure airflow or by measuring the remaining volume of the article.

[0109] The mentioned timers and sensors can be based on the system's existing timers and sensors, without adding any additional cost or increasing the system's size. Alternatively, external timers and sensors can also be used. This invention does not specify a particular approach in this regard.

[0110] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining the puffing session to end when the monitored puffing parameters reach or exceed a preset puffing parameter threshold, or fall within a preset puffing parameter range.

[0111] For instance, if the user's cumulative number of puffs reaches or exceeds a preset threshold of puff numbers, it indicates that the user has taken a sufficient number of puffs. At this point, the puffing session can be determined to have ended.

[0112] However, not all data exceeding the threshold is accurate. Environmental factors or hardware issues of the system may cause false detections of puffing parameters. For instance, significant air movement in the vicinity can lead to short-term high-frequency puff detection, such as detecting 50 puffs within a minute, which is clearly implausible. To filter out such false detections, this invention sets a range for puffing parameters. For instance, the number of puffs within 4 minutes is set to a range of 7-15. If this range is exceeded, it is considered a false detection and not used to determine the end of a puffing session.

[0113] The variation in puffing parameters can also represent the amount of aerosol intake. For instance, the greater the change in article consumption, the more the puffing. Similarly, changes in the user's puffing intensity can indicate aerosol intake. As the puffing duration increases and the article diminishes, users need to puff harder. Therefore, changes in puffing intensity can represent aerosol intake. In another embodiment of this invention, determining the end of the puffing session based on the changes of puffing parameters comprises: determining the puffing session to end when the change in the monitored puffing parameters reaches or exceeds a preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or falls within a preset change range of puffing parameters.

[0114] The preset puffing parameter threshold, the preset puffing parameter range, the preset puffing parameter change threshold, or the preset puffing parameter change range can be pre-configured in the aerosol supply system during manufacturing. Alternatively, the system can obtain these parameters periodically or in real-time from an external device during use. They can also be selected or modified by the user after purchase. Therefore, in one side, this allows users to tailor these parameters to their specific needs, whether they're pre-stored in the system, obtained from an external device, or set according to user preference. In one embodiment of this invention, based on the above-mentioned puffing parameters, the determination of whether a puffing session has ended is based on at least one of the following puffing parameters: when the cumulative working time reaches or exceeds the preset cumulative working time threshold, the end of the puffing session is determined. In an implementation of this invention, during one puffing session, the preset cumulative working time threshold is set to be 3-5 minutes, with a preference for 4 minutes.

[0115] When the cumulative puffing time reaches or exceeds the preset cumulative puffing time threshold, the end of the puffing session is determined. In an implementation of this invention, during one puffing session, the preset cumulative puffing time threshold is set to be 20-40 seconds, with a preference for 36 seconds.

[0116] The end of the puffing session is determined when the cumulative puffing count reaches or exceeds the preset cumulative puffing count threshold. In an implementation of this invention, the preset cumulative puffing count threshold is set to be 7-15 times, with a preference for 12 times.

[0117] The end of the puffing session is determined when the cumulative amount of aerosol produced reaches or exceeds the preset cumulative amount of aerosol produced threshold. In an implementation of this invention, the preset cumulative amount of aerosol produced threshold is set to be 50-90mg, with a preference for 85mg.

[0118] The end of the puffing session is determined when the cumulative article consumption reaches or exceeds the preset cumulative article consumption threshold. In an implementation of this invention, the preset cumulative article consumption threshold is set to be 0.08-0.15ml, with a preference for 0.1ml.

[0119] The thresholds for the above puffing parameters can be specifically defined as thresholds achieved within a time window. The time window can be set as needed, typically equal to the maximum duration of a puffing session, and it can be set to be the same as the cumulative working time threshold of the system, for instance, 4 minutes.

[0120] As mentioned above, the thresholds can be determined based on statistical analysis of typical users. Users can also choose or modify them based on their own usage habits. For instance, if a user tends to take deep puffs with each puffing, resulting in a larger volume per puff compared to typical users, they can choose a cumulative puffing count threshold lower than that of typical users.

[0121] In one embodiment of this invention, the puffing parameters comprise various types of parameters, and determining whether the puffing session ends based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining whether the puffing session ends based on any one type of puffing parameter, wherein if any one type of puffing parameter meets the preset conditions, the puffing session can be determined to end. For instance, if either the cumulative working time of the system or the cumulative puffing time of the user reaches its respective threshold, the puffing session can be determined to end.

[0122] Considering that determining the end of a puffing session based on a single type of puffing parameter can lead to inaccuracies, for instance, when the cumulative working time of the system reaches the set threshold, but the user may not have taken any puffings at that time, determining the end of the puffing session based solely on the cumulative working time of the system can result in misjudgment. Therefore, in an implementation of this invention, when puffing parameters comprise multiple types of parameters, the end of the puffing session is determined based on at least two types of parameters working together to avoid such inaccuracies.

[0123] For instance, when both the cumulative working time of the system and the cumulative puffing time of the user reach their respective thresholds, the puffing session is determined to end.

[0124] Through monitoring puffing parameters during usage, this invention can determine whether the puffing session has ended. This allows for a puffing session experience similar to traditional cigarettes, aligning with user habits and enhancing the user experience. Based on this, users can gain insights into the puffing session process and article consumption, facilitating timely feedback such as stopping puffing or replenishing articles.

[0125] In addition to the above-mentioned puffing parameters, in the embodiment of this invention, statistics of puffing parameters for multiple puffing sessions can also be performed, allowing users to estimate aerosol consumption and remaining amount and provide timely feedback. Specifically, the puffing parameters comprise at least one of the following: cumulative working time of the system; user's cumulative puffing time; user's cumulative puffing count; cumulative amount of aerosol produced; cumulative consumption of the article.

[0126] For instance, when it is detected that the user has accumulated 50 puffings, and the article itself is capable of providing 55 puffings, the user can use this information to replenish new articles in a timely manner.

[0127] Another example is when the cumulative working time of the system during multiple puffing sessions is monitored to be 11 minutes, and the system's cumulative working time threshold (usually the battery's capacity) is 13 minutes, the user can use this information to promptly replace the battery.

[0128] Embodiment two

[0129] At different heating powers, the instantaneous aerosol article quantity varies. Generally, the higher the heating power, the higher the instantaneous aerosol article quantity, providing a higher aerosol volume to the user. At high heating power, users can achieve the same amount of puffing with fewer puffing count and puffing time as compared to low heating power, which requires more puffing count and puffing time. Therefore, in one embodiment of this invention, when the system comprises at least two different heating powers, the threshold values of puffing parameters corresponding to different heating powers are different, or the ranges of puffing parameters are different, or the preset threshold values or ranges of puffing parameters are different. For instance, the cumulative number of puffing count threshold value corresponding to high heating power should be set lower than that corresponding to low heating power.

[0130] When there are different levels of heating power, and the threshold values or parameter ranges for puffing parameters vary between different heating power levels, or when the preset threshold values or ranges for parameter changes differ, determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining the current heating power, and the corresponding preset puffing parameter threshold, preset puffing parameter range, preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or preset change range of puffing parameters for the current heating power; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters and the corresponding preset threshold, range, or change threshold / range for the current heating power.

[0131] The above-mentioned method of comparing with the threshold values corresponding to the heating power is applicable when only one heating power level is activated during a puffing session. However, in actual use, users are likely to switch between different heating power levels within the same puffing session, making it impossible to choose a single confirmed puffing parameter threshold for comparison. Therefore, in one embodiment of this invention, when the aerosol provision system has at least two heating power levels, one of them is set as the standard heating power level, and the preset puffing parameter threshold, puffing parameter range, puffing parameter change threshold, or puffing parameter change range are set for the standard heating power level. The puffing parameters at other heating power levels are converted into puffing parameters at the standard heating power level for comparison. As shown in Figure 3, this conversion and comparison process comprises :

[0132] 531, determining the current heating power;

[0133] 532, converting the puffing parameters to standard puffing parameters under the standard heating power, based on the relationship between the current heating power and the standard heating power;

[0134] 533, determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the standard puffing parameters and the corresponding preset threshold, range, or change threshold / range.

[0135] Based on the above method, all puffing parameters can be converted into puffing parameters at the standard power level, allowing for the consolidation of all puffing parameters for comparison with the same threshold to determine if the puffing session has ended.

[0136] Embodiment three

[0137] During a puffing session, the aerosol generation material may be depleted, and at this point, the user can choose to replace the cartridge to continue puffing.

[0138] The replacement of the cartridge is somewhat similar to lighting up a traditional cigarette to start a new puffing session. Therefore, in one embodiment of this invention, the method further comprises: during a puffing session, when detecting that the cartridge of the system is removed from the device (such as the e-cigarette holder) of the aerosol provision system, determining the last puffing session before removal has ended. In other words, the replacement of the cartridge is considered as an event triggering the end of the puffing session.

[0139] However, unlike traditional cigarettes where the replacement mostly signifies the completion of a cigarette, with electronic cigarettes, the cartridge replacement may occur after only a short puff, and the cartridge replacement process can be completed quickly. If a new puffing session is directly initiated due to cartridge replacement, it may result in the short puff before replacement being counted as a separate puffing session, providing a suboptimal experience for the user. Therefore, in one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the method further comprises: during the puffing session, when detecting that the cartridge of the system is removed from the device of the aerosol provision system, recording the puffing parameters monitored after replacing the cartridge into the last puffing session before the replacement, to determine whether the last puffing session has ended.

[0140] Embodiment four

[0141] In the above embodiment, a detailed description is provided on how to determine the end of a puffing session. In order to make it clearer for the user when a puffing session is ending, in one embodiment of this invention, an indication of the end of the puffing session is provided. As shown in Figure 4, the method specifically comprises:

[0142] 541, determining the start of a puffing session.

[0143] 542, monitoring puffing parameters related to puffing behavior of the aerosol provision system during the puffing session.

[0144] 543, determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters.

[0145] 544, outputting an indication of the end of the puffing session when the puffing session ends. The indication of a puffing session's end can be provided to the user through any perceivable kind of signal. Specifically, in one embodiment of this invention, the indication of the end of the puffing session is output through at least one of the following: a vibration indication output by a vibration element; a sound indication output by a sound element; a light indication output by a lighting element.

[0146] The above-mentioned indication signal can be achieved through components installed in the system itself or by communicating with an external terminal connected to the system. Existing aerosol supply systems typically comprise lighting elements to indicate the system's operating status. To save costs, the above-mentioned indication in this invention can leverage the existing lighting elements for this purpose.

[0147] In one embodiment of this invention, the system outputs at least one of the following light indications through the lighting element for a first preset duration: the lighting element flashes; the lighting element emits light of a preset color; a preset number of lighting elements are illuminated; the lighting elements are illuminated in a preset order; the lighting element emits light of a preset brightness.

[0148] When using the existing lighting elements for the above-mentioned indication and to distinguish it from the original indication function of the lighting elements, differentiation can be achieved through various means. This comprises using different blinking frequencies, different colors of light, varying numbers of lightings, distinct lighting sequences, and differences in brightness.

[0149] In one implementation, the lighting elements continuously output indications for the first preset time, allowing users sufficient time to receive the indication. The first preset time can be set, for instance, between 8-12 seconds, with a preference for 10 seconds.

[0150] The first preset time for the device can be pre-configured during manufacturing and can also be customized by users after purchase. This allows users to select a first preset time from multiple pre-configured options. For instance, some users might need longer durations to recognize light signals and could opt for an extended first preset time. Conversely, others who discern light signals more quickly or prefer not to spend much time on such indications might choose a shorter preset duration.

[0151] In this invention, upon determining the end of a puffing session, the system can provide an ending signal to the user without shutting down or entering sleep mode, allowing continued use. The system simply provides this indication for user reference.

[0152] In one embodiment of this invention, the user's puffing after the end of the puffing session can be restricted. As shown in Figure 5, the method comprises:

[0153] 551, determining the start of a puffing session;

[0154] 552, monitoring puffing parameters related to puffing behavior of the aerosol provision system during the puffing session;

[0155] 553, determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters.

[0156] 554, at the end of the puffing session, the system is controlled to enter a sleep mode.

[0157] In this sleep mode, the system is unable to initiate heating, effectively "forcing" the user to stop puffing. This feature helps prevent health issues associated with prolonged puffing sessions. In another embodiment of this invention, when determining the end of the puffing session, an indication of the end can be provided to the user, and the system can be shut down or put to sleep, making the user aware of the session's end and forcing the system to stop puffing.

[0158] For an electronic cigarette, battery life is crucial. Users typically check the device's battery level at the end of a session. Therefore, in one embodiment of this invention, the method also comprises: controlling the lighting element of the aerosol system to output an indication of the remaining battery level of the aerosol provision system when determining the end of the puffing session.

[0159] The lighting element can be the existing lighting component of the system, and the quantity can be one or more.

[0160] When using the existing lighting element for the above-mentioned indications, to distinguish from the original indication function of the lighting element and the indication function for the end of the puffing session, the present invention can utilize different blinking frequencies, different colors of light, different quantities of lighting, different sequences of lighting, and different brightness levels for different indications (including different remaining battery levels).

[0161] As mentioned above, there can be various ways to indicate the end of a puffing session and the remaining battery level of the system. Some of the methods are enumerated below: in one embodiment, the system is equipped with a lighting element, which provides an indication of the end of a puffing session through blinking. The blinking can be sustained for a certain duration.

[0162] In one embodiment, the system is equipped with lighting elements of multiple colors. Different colors of lighting elements are lit to indicate different remaining battery levels. For instance, the first color is lit to indicate the first level of remaining battery, the second color is lit to indicate the second level of remaining battery. The lighting elements blink for a certain duration to indicate the depletion of battery, and they blink for another duration to indicate the end of a puffing session.

[0163] In one embodiment, the system is equipped with multiple lighting elements, which can be of the same color. Different levels of remaining battery are indicated by lighting up a different number of lighting elements. For instance, lighting up one lighting element indicates the first level of remaining battery, lighting up two indicates the second level, and lighting up three indicates the third level. The lighting elements blink for a certain duration to indicate battery depletion and blink for another duration to indicate the end of a puffing session.

[0164] In one embodiment, the system is equipped with a vibration element and multiple lighting elements, which can be of the same color. Different levels of remaining battery are indicated by lighting up a different number of lighting elements. For instance, lighting up one lighting element indicates the first level of remaining battery, lighting up two indicates the second level, and lighting up three indicates the third level. The lighting elements blink for a certain duration to indicate battery depletion, and the vibration element vibrates to indicate the end of a puffing session, such as vibrating twice in succession, each time lasting a certain duration.

[0165] In one embodiment, the system is equipped with a vibration element, a touch element, and multiple lighting elements, which can be of the same color. Users can trigger the battery indicator by operating the touch element (such as a physical button or electronic button). Different levels of remaining battery are indicated by lighting up a different number of lighting elements. For instance, lighting up one lighting element indicates the first level of remaining battery, lighting up two indicates the second level, and lighting up three indicates the third level. The lighting elements blink for a certain duration to indicate battery depletion, and the vibration element vibrates to indicate the end of a puffing session, such as vibrating twice in succession, each time lasting a certain duration.

[0166] In one embodiment, the system is equipped with an electronic display screen that can digitally output the remaining battery level. The display screen blinks to indicate the end of a puffing session.

[0167] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, after determining the end of the puffing session, an indication of the remaining battery level is output at intervals of the second preset time.

[0168] In one embodiment of the puffing session control method, the second preset time is set to 0-12 seconds, with a preference for 10 seconds.

[0169] The second preset time can be pre-configured during manufacturing and can also be selected or modified by the user after purchase. Therefore, in one aspect, users are allowed to choose from multiple pre-configured options for the second preset time. For instance, some users may prefer a longer duration after the typical time for indicating the battery level, so they can choose a longer second preset time. Similarly, some users may prefer a shorter duration after the typical time for indicating the battery level, so they can choose a shorter second preset time.

[0170] This invention, after the end of a puffing session, provides the option to output an indication of the end of the puffing session, control the system to enter sleep mode, or perform at least one of the battery level display, according to the user's needs. In one embodiment of this invention, as shown in Figure 6, the method comprises:

[0171] 561, determining the start of a puffing session.

[0172] 562, monitoring puffing parameters related to puffing behavior of the aerosol provision system during the puffing session.

[0173] 563, determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters.

[0174] 564, outputting an indication of the end of the puffing session at the end of the puffing session.

[0175] 565, after outputting an indication of the end of the puffing session, outputting an indication of the remaining battery level of the aerosol provision system.

[0176] 566, after outputting an indication of the remaining battery level, controlling the system to enter a sleep mode.

[0177] It should be noted that the above steps S64 and S65 can be interchanged in order or performed simultaneously. The content that is the same or similar among the embodiments in embodiment 1 to 4 can be cross-referenced, and is not reiterated in each embodiment.

[0178] Embodiment five

[0179] Corresponding to the above method, embodiment five of this invention also discloses an aerosol provision system. In this embodiment, content that is the same or similar to embodiment 1 to 4 above can be referred to in the previous introduction and will not be reiterated here. As shown in Figure 1, the system comprises: a housingl07, for containing the article, the article comprises the aerosol-generating material; a controller, configured to execute the puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system as described in the embodiment Ito 4. and the article(not shown in figure).

[0180] In the structure shown in Figure 1 of this invention, the system 100 also comprises a cartridge 101 for containing the aerosol generating material, a cartomizer 102, a power source 103, and a mouthpiece 105. During use, the controller 104 regulates the power source 103 to supply power to the cartomizer 102. The cartomizer 102, when powered, heats up to vaporize the aerosol generating material, producing aerosol which the user inhales through the mouthpiece 105. In this invention, the aerosol generating material can take various forms. In one implementation, it may be liquid, gel, powder, granules, loose fibrous or thread-like materials such as tobacco, or other flowable materials with non-fixed shapes that are contained and shaped by the cartridge. Alternatively, the material could be in a solid form, like processed tobacco sticks, designed to last multiple puffing sessions rather than just one, offering a longer-lasting or higher potency experience compared to traditional tobacco sticks.

[0181] In another embodiment of this invention, the system comprises a timer and sensors for monitoring puffing parameters , such as the light-emitting element 106 shown in Figurel.

[0182] Based on the embodiment of the invention, by monitoring puffing parameters related to puffing behavior, it's possible to determine the progression of a user's puffing session and conclude whether the session has ended. This approach offers an experience similar to that of traditional cigarette smoking, aligning with users' habits and enhancing their overall experience. Furthermore, this method can reduce unintentional prolonged puffing sessions and assists users in monitoring their consumption of aerosol-producing material, enabling timely feedback and adjustments.

[0183] It should be understood that various parts of this invention can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In the described embodiments, many steps or methods can be realized through software or firmware stored in a memory and executed by an appropriate execution system. For instance, if implemented in hardware, as in another embodiment, it can be realized using any one of the following well-known techniques in the field or their combination: discrete logic circuits with logic gate circuits for logical functions of data signals, dedicated integrated circuits with appropriate combinational logic gate circuits, Programmable Gate Arrays (PGAs), Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0184] In the description of this specification, the referential terminology "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples" means that specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or instance are comprised in at least one embodiment or instance of the present invention. In this specification, the indicative expression of the above-mentioned terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or instance. Furthermore, the described specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable way in any one or more embodiments or instances.

[0185] Moreover, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used merely for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, the characteristics defined as "first," "second," etc., may explicitly or implicitly comprise at least one such characteristic. In the description of this invention, the term "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0186] In this invention, unless explicitly defined and limited, terms such as "mounting," "connecting," "connection," "fixing," etc., should be understood broadly. For instance, the connection can be a fixed connection or a detachable connection, or integrated; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediary medium, it can be the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless explicitly defined otherwise. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meanings of these terms in the context of the invention based on the circumstances.

[0187] Although the embodiments of the invention have been shown and described above, it should be understood that the above-described embodiments are exemplary and should not be considered as limiting the invention. Those skilled in the art within the scope of the invention can make variations, modifications, replacements, and variations to the above-described embodiments.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system, wherein the system can accommodate aerosol-generating material sufficient for at least two puffing sessions, the method comprises: determining the start of a puffing session; monitoring puffing parameters related to puffing behavior of the aerosol provision system during the puffing session; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters.

2. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 1, wherein at the end of the puffing session, the system is controlled to enter a sleep mode.

3. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 2, wherein the start of the puffing session is determined based on at least one of the following: determining the user's first puffing after activation of the system; determining the user's first puffing after the end of the previous puffing session; the system being in sleep mode for a preset time; the system being in sleep mode for a preset time and detecting the user's first puffing after the end of the previous puffing session.

4. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 1, wherein determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining the puffing session to end when the monitored puffing parameters reach or exceed a preset puffing parameter threshold, or fall within a preset puffing parameter range; or, determining the puffing session to end when the change in the monitored puffing parameters reaches or exceeds a preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or falls within a preset change range of puffing parameters.

5. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 4,wherein the preset puffing parameter threshold, the preset puffing parameter range, the preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or the preset change range of puffing parameters are pre-stored in the aerosol provision system, or acquired by the aerosol provision system from an external device, or set in the aerosol provision system based on user selection.

6. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 4, wherein the aerosol provision system has at least two heating power levels, and under different heating powers, the preset puffing parameter threshold, the preset puffing parameter range, the preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or the preset change range of puffing parameters are different.

7. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 6, wherein determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining the current heating power, and the corresponding preset puffing parameter threshold, preset puffing parameter range, preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or preset change range of puffing parameters for the current heating power; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters and the corresponding preset threshold, range, or change threshold / range for the current heating power.

8. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 4, wherein the aerosol provision system has at least two heating power levels, comprising a standard heating power, corresponding to the preset puffing parameter threshold, preset puffing parameter range, preset change threshold of puffing parameters, or preset change range of puffing parameters; determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the puffing parameters comprises: determining the current heating power; converting the puffing parameters to standard puffing parameters under the standard heating power, based on the relationship between the current heating power and the standard heating power;determining whether the puffing session has ended based on the standard puffing parameters and the corresponding preset threshold, range, or change threshold / range.

9. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 1, wherein the puffing parameters comprise at least one of the following: cumulative working time of the system; user's cumulative puffing time; user's cumulative puffing count; cumulative amount of aerosol produced; cumulative consumption of the article.

10. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 1, wherein the puffing parameters comprise at least one of the following within a puffing session: cumulative working time of the system during one puffing session; user's cumulative puffing time during one puffing session; user's cumulative puffing count during one puffing session; cumulative amount of aerosol produced during one puffing session; cumulative consumption of the article during one puffing session.

11. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claims 9 or 10, wherein determining whether the puffing session has ended comprises at least one of the following: determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative working time reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative working time threshold; determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative puffing time reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative puffing time threshold; determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative puffing count reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative puffing count threshold; determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative amount of aerosol produced reaches or exceeds a preset cumulative amount of aerosol produced threshold; determining the puffing session to end when the cumulative consumption of the articlereaches or exceeds a preset cumulative consumption threshold.

12. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 11, wherein within a puffing session: the preset cumulative puffing time threshold is 20-40 seconds; and / or, the preset cumulative puffing count threshold is 7-15 times; and / or, the preset cumulative working time threshold is 3-5 minutes; and / or, the preset cumulative amount of aerosol produced threshold is 50-90mg; and / or, the preset cumulative consumption threshold is 0.08-0.15ml.

13. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein when the puffing parameters comprise multiple types of parameters, determining whether the puffing session has ended comprises: jointly determining whether the puffing session has ended based on at least two types of parameters.

14. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the method further comprises: during the puffing session, when detecting that the cartridge of the system is removed from the device of the aerosol provision system, determining the last puffing session before removal has ended.

15. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the method further comprises: during the puffing session, when detecting that the cartridge of the system is removed from the device of the aerosol provision system, recording the puffing parameters monitored after replacing the cartridge into the last puffing session before the replacement, to determine whether the last puffing session has ended.

16. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the method further comprises: outputting an indication of the end of the puffing session when the puffing session ends.

17. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim16, wherein the indication of the end of the puffing session is output through at least one of the following: a vibration indication output by a vibration element; a sound indication output by a sound element; a light indication output by a lighting element.

18. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim17, wherein the system outputs at least one of the following light indications through the lighting element for a first preset duration: the lighting element flashes; the lighting element emits light of a preset color; a preset number of lighting elements are illuminated; the lighting elements are illuminated in a preset order; the lighting element emits light of a preset brightness.

19. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim18, wherein the first preset duration is 8-12 seconds.

20. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the method further comprises: controlling the lighting element of the aerosol system to output an indication of the remaining battery level of the aerosol provision system when determining the end of the puffing session.

21. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 20, wherein the indication of the remaining battery level is output after a second preset interval following the determination of the end of the puffing session.

22. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim21, wherein the second preset interval is 0-12 seconds.

23. The puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system according to claim 1, wherein the shape of the aerosol-generating material is determined based on the shape of the containing chamber that houses it.

24. An aerosol provision system, wherein the system comprises: a housing for containing the article; a controller, configured to execute the puffing session control method for an aerosol provision system as described in any one of claims 1-23; and the article, which comprises the aerosol-generating material.

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