Switching method of interface function for aerosol provision device and aerosol provision device

Abstract

There is provided a switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision system, an adapter and a switching system of interface function for an aerosol provision device. The method comprises detecting the current voltage value of a first interface of the aerosol provision device; comparing the current voltage value with a preset threshold value to obtain a comparison result; and switching the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result. Through the embodiments of the present application, by switching the operating mode of the second interface based on the detected voltage value of the first interface, the reuse of the second interface can be achieved without increasing the product size, thereby enabling the second interface to meet more functional requirements.

Description

[0001] SWITCHING METHOD OF INTERFACE FUNCTION FOR AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE AND AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to the field of aerosol provision technology, particularly to a switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision system, an adapter and a switching system of interface function for an aerosol provision device.

[0004] Background

[0005] The configuration port is a standard feature in conventional consumer electronics. However, due to constraints in electrical design and limited mechanical space, it is challenging to implement a configuration port on compact-sized aerosol provision devices, also known as e-cigarette devices. Referring to Figure 1 , the common aerosol provision devices typically provide users with only two types of interfaces: a charging interface and a pod connection interface. Moreover, the charging interface typically consists of only two pins: one for voltage and the other for grounding. Consequently, common aerosol provision devices lack the necessary data transmission or reception pins to facilitate the functionality of a configuration port.

[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need to propose a novel switching method of interface function to address one or more of the aforementioned issues.

[0007] Summary

[0008] In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided a switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision system, an adapter and a switching system of interface function for an aerosol provision device, aiming to solve technical issue in existing aerosol provision devices where, due to constraints in electrical design and limited mechanical space, it is not feasible to implement a data interface on compact-sized devices.

[0009] In accordance with a first aspect, there is provided a switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device. The method comprises detecting the current voltage value of a first interface of the aerosol provision device; comparing the current voltage value with a preset threshold value to obtain a comparison result; and switching the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result.

[0010] Through the embodiments of the present application, by switching the operating mode of the second interface based on the detected voltage value of the first interface, the reuse of the second interface can be achieved without increasing the product size, thereby enabling the second interface to meet more functional requirements.

[0011] In embodiments of the or any of the above methods, the operating modes may comprise a power supply mode and a data transmission mode.

[0012] By configuring the operating modes of the second interface to comprise a power supply mode and a data transmission mode, the second interface may switch between power supply functionality and data transmission functionality. This not only meets the power supply requirements of the device but also fulfils its data transmission needs.

[0013] In embodiments of the or any of the above method, the preset threshold may comprise a first threshold, and the step of switching the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result comprises: when the current voltage value is equal to the first threshold, switching the second interface to the data transmission mode, wherein the second interface can receive or transmit relevant data in the data transmission mode.

[0014] It can be understood that, in the embodiments of the present application, when the current voltage value of the first interface is detected to be equal to the first threshold, the second interface will be switched to the data transmission mode. In the data transmission mode, the second interface may receive or transmit relevant data, thereby enabling the switching of the second interface's functionality without increasing hardware costs and further reducing product costs.

[0015] In embodiments of the or any of the above methods, the method further comprises: continuously detecting the real-time voltage value of the first interface, and when the real-time voltage value is not equal to the first threshold, ending the data transmission mode of the second interface.

[0016] In embodiments of the or any of the above methods, the method further comprises: after ending the data transmission mode of the second interface, switching the second interface to the power supply mode, wherein the second interface can provide power in the power supply mode.

[0017] In embodiments of the or any of the above methods, when the current voltage value is not equal to the first threshold, switching the second interface to the power supply mode, wherein the second interface can provide power in the power supply mode.

[0018] In embodiments of the or any of the above methods, the preset threshold may further comprise a second threshold. The method further comprises: when the current voltage value is equal to the first threshold, switching the second interface to the data transmission mode and maintaining the data transmission mode, and when detecting that the current voltage value of the first interface is equal to the second threshold, switching the second interface to the power supply mode. In embodiments of the or any of the above methods, the first threshold may be in the range of 3-3.3V; and / or the second threshold may be in the range of 4-6V.

[0019] In embodiments of the or any of the above methods, the first threshold may be 3.3V; and / or the second threshold may be 5V.

[0020] In accordance with a second aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device. The device comprises: a microcontroller, configured to detect the current voltage value of a first interface of the aerosol provision device; compare the current voltage value with a preset threshold to obtain a comparison result; and switch the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result; a first interface, configured to receive an external input voltage; and a second interface, configured to switch to the corresponding operating mode based on the comparison result.

[0021] In accordance with a third aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision system, which at least comprises an aerosol provision device as described in the second aspect.

[0022] In accordance with a fourth aspect, there is provided an adapter. The adapter comprises: an external terminal interface, configured to connect with an external terminal, allowing the external terminal to send data to an aerosol provision system or receive data from an aerosol provision device; a voltage supply port, configured to provide a voltage of a preset magnitude; and a data interface, configured to connect with an aerosol provision device, enabling the aerosol provision device to send data to the terminal or receive data from the external terminal.

[0023] In embodiments of the or any of the above adapters, the adapter further comprises a power frequency conversion module, which is used to convert the power frequency of the external terminal and the aerosol provision device to be consistent.

[0024] In accordance with a fifth aspect, there is provided a switching system of interface function for an aerosol provision device, wherein the system comprises an aerosol provision device according to any one of the embodiments described in the second aspect and the adapter according to any one of the embodiments described in the fourth aspect.

[0025] In accordance with a sixth aspect, there is provided a computer device. The computer device comprises a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor, and when executed by the processor, the computer program implements the switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to any one of the embodiments described in the first aspect.

[0026] In accordance with a seventh aspect, there is provided a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium may store a computer program, which, when executed, implements the switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to any one of the embodiments described in the first aspect.

[0027] One or more technical solutions of the present application have at least one or more of the following beneficial effects: In the implementation of the technical solution of the present invention, the current voltage value of the first interface of the aerosol provision device is detected. Then, the current voltage value is compared with a preset threshold value to obtain a comparison result. Finally, the operating mode of the second interface of the aerosol provision device is switched based on the comparison result. The solution proposed in the present application achieves the reuse of the second interface by switching its operating mode based on the detected voltage value of the first interface. This allows the second interface to meet more functional requirements without increasing the product size.

[0028] Additional aspects and advantages will be partially described in the following description, some will become apparent from the following description.

[0029] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0030] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the disclosed content of the present application 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 application. Moreover, similar numbers in the figures are used to represent similar components, among which:

[0031] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a charging interface and a pod connection interface of an aerosol provision device provided by the prior art;

[0032] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to Embodiment 1 of the present application;

[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an aerosol provision device according to Embodiment 2 of the present application;

[0034] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an adapter according to Embodiment 4 of the present application;

[0035] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a switching system of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to Embodiment 5 of the present application; and

[0036] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a computer device according to Embodiment 6 of the present application.

[0037] Detailed Description

[0038] The following describes some embodiments of the present application 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 application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application. 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 aerosolgenerating 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 aerosol-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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

[0044] 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. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosolgenerating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosolgenerating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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 aerosolmodifying agent.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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 aerosolformer materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0053] 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.

[0054] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B12.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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, marjoram, 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.

[0061] 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. 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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 aerosolmodifying 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.

[0070] 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 aerosolgenerating 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.

[0071] 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 I device and electronic aerosol delivery system I 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. 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 systems / devices.

[0072] 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.

[0073] As described in the background, existing aerosol provision devices face technical issues such as insufficient space to configure data interfaces for enabling device configuration functionalities, due to their compact dimensions resulting from limitations in electrical design and mechanical space.

[0074] However, conventional aerosol provision devices typically provide users with only two types of interfaces: a charging interface and a pod connection interface. Based on this, the present application proposes a method for enabling the reuse of existing interfaces in aerosol provision devices without increasing the product size, thereby allowing the second interface to fulfil more functional requirements.

[0075] Embodiment 1

[0076] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to Embodiment 1 of the present application. The method is applied to the side of an aerosol provision device. As shown in Figure 2, the method comprises:

[0077] S100: Detecting the current voltage value of a first interface of the aerosol provision device.

[0078] Generally, the aerosol provision device may be equipped with two types of interfaces: a user charging interface and a pod connection interface. The charging interface may be primarily used for charging the device's battery, while the pod connection interface may be mainly utilized for a battery to supply power to a cartomizer. This enables the cartomizer to heat the aerosol-generating material, thereby forming an aerosol for the user to puff. Based on this, the embodiments of the present application propose the reuse of one of the charging interface or the pod connection interface, allowing the same interface to provide additional functionalities. By utilizing the other interface to trigger the functional switching conditions of the reused interface, this method achieves the reuse of existing interfaces in aerosol provision devices without increasing the product size. Consequently, the device's interfaces may meet a greater range of functional requirements. It should be noted that, without departing from the inventive concept of the present application, the embodiments of the present application do not specifically limit which interface is to be reused. The only requirement is that the chosen interface may be capable of providing different interface functionalities. As an illustrative but non-limiting example, in the embodiments of the present application, the first interface may be designated as the charging interface and the second interface as the pod connection interface. That is, the pod connection interface is set as the reused interface, while the charging interface serves as the trigger for the functional switching conditions of the pod connection interface. Alternatively, the first interface may be designated as the pod connection interface and the second interface as the charging interface. That is, the charging interface is set as the reused interface, while the pod connection interface serves as the trigger for the functional switching conditions of the charging interface.

[0079] In an optional embodiment, the first interface may be designated as a charging interface of the device, and the second interface may be designated as a pod connection interface of the device. Based on the interface functionalities and inherent characteristics of the charging interface, the embodiments of the present application set the application of different voltages to the first interface as the trigger condition for switching the functionalities of the pod connection interface. Therefore, when implementing the switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device provided by the present application, the first step is to detect the current voltage value of the first interface in order to proceed with the subsequent steps of the method based on the current voltage value.

[0080] S200: Comparing the current voltage value with a preset threshold value to obtain a comparison result.

[0081] It can be understood that, in an optional embodiment, a threshold comparison method may be employed as the trigger condition for the interface function switching of the second interface. In a specific implementation, after detecting the current voltage value at the first interface, the current voltage value may be compared with a preset threshold value to obtain a comparison result, which is then used to carry out the subsequent steps of the method based on the current voltage value. As an illustrative but non-limiting example, the embodiments of the present application may employ a comparison algorithm to compare the current voltage value with the preset threshold value. It should be noted that the embodiments of the present application do not specifically limit the comparison algorithm. Any known comparison algorithm may be used in this application, provided that it does not violate the inventive concept of the application. It can be understood that the comparison result could be any one of the followings: the current voltage value is greater than the preset threshold value, the current voltage value is equal to the preset threshold value, or the current voltage value is less than the preset threshold value.

[0082] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present application, the preset threshold is not specifically limited. The preset threshold can be set according to the actual product requirements, provided that it does not violate the inventive concept of the application.

[0083] S300: Switching the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result.

[0084] It can be understood that, in the embodiments of the present application, the second interface may be configured to switch to different operating modes based on different comparison results. It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present application, the number and categories of the operating modes are not limited. The number and categories of the operating modes may be set according to the actual product requirements, provided that it does not violate the inventive concept of the application.

[0085] In an optional embodiment, the operating modes comprise a power supply mode and a data transmission mode.

[0086] As described earlier, existing aerosol provision devices are typically equipped with two types of interfaces: a charging interface and a pod connection interface, to meet the charging and heating requirements of the device. In the implementation of the present application, the pod connection interface is reused to enable it to provide additional functionalities. In specific implementations, the pod connection interface may be integrated with a data interface to form the second interface of the present application, allowing the second interface to perform the functions of either the pod connection interface or the data interface. That is, the second interface may switch between the functionalities of the pod connection interface and the data interface. Based on the above content, it can be understood that, in the embodiments of the present application, the operating modes of the second interface include a power supply mode and a data transmission mode. In the power supply mode, the second interface may provide power, and in the data transmission mode, the second interface may facilitate data transfer. This enables the second interface to switch between power supply functionality and data transmission functionality, thereby satisfying both the power supply needs and the data transmission requirements of the device.

[0087] It should be noted that the aforementioned operating modes, including a power supply mode and a data transmission mode, are merely exemplary and not restrictive. In some specific embodiments, the operating modes may also include other modes, which are not limited by this application.

[0088] In an optional embodiment, the preset threshold may comprise a first threshold, and the step of switching the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result comprises: when the current voltage value is equal to the first threshold, switching the second interface to the data transmission mode, wherein the second interface can receive or transmit relevant data in the data transmission mode.

[0089] It can be understood that by setting the condition that when the detected current voltage value at the first interface equals a first threshold, the second interface is switched to the data transmission mode, it is possible to achieve the switching of the second interface's functionality without increasing hardware costs, thereby further reducing the product cost.

[0090] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present application, the first threshold is not specifically limited. Provided that it does not contravene the inventive concept of the application, the first threshold may be set to any value. In a specific embodiment, the first threshold may be set according to the actual product requirements, and in another specific embodiment, commonly used voltage specifications (such as 3V, 5V, etc.) may be adopted as the first threshold in the present application.

[0091] In an optional embodiment, the method further comprises: continuously detecting the realtime voltage value of the first interface, when the real-time voltage value is not equal to the first threshold, ending the data transmission mode of the second interface.

[0092] Specifically, in the embodiments of the present application, the termination conditions for the second interface in each operating mode are not specifically limited. Provided that they do not contravene the inventive concept of the application, these conditions may be set according to the actual product requirements. Illustratively, in some other specific embodiments, it may be set that when the first interface is subjected to a voltage of the first threshold, the second interface remains in the data transmission mode. When the voltage applied to the first interface changes (i.e., the real-time voltage value of the first interface no longer equals the first threshold), the data transmission mode of the second interface is terminated.

[0093] In an optional embodiment, the method further comprises: after ending the data transmission mode of the second interface, switching the second interface to the power supply mode, wherein the second interface can provide power in the power supply mode.

[0094] Specifically, after the second interface exits the data transmission mode, it may be directly switched to the power supply mode to allow the second interface to supply power in this mode. Alternatively, no action may be taken, leaving the second interface in an idle state until the switching conditions are met, at which point the second interface may be switched to the operating state corresponding to those conditions. The present application does not impose specific limitations on this, and during actual production, it can be set according to product requirements.

[0095] In an optional embodiment, when the current voltage value is not equal to the first threshold, switching the second interface to the power supply mode, wherein the second interface can provide power in the power supply mode.

[0096] In some other specific embodiments, it may be arranged that upon detecting that the current voltage value applied to the first interface equals the first threshold, the second interface may be switched to the data transmission mode, after which there is no need to continuously apply a voltage equal to the first threshold to the first interface. When it is detected again that a voltage not equal to the first threshold is applied to the first interface, the data transmission mode of the second interface will be terminated and it will be switched to the power supply mode so that the second interface can provide power.

[0097] In an optional embodiment, the preset threshold may further comprise a second threshold. The method further comprises: when the current voltage value is equal to the first threshold, switching the second interface to the data transmission mode and maintaining the data transmission mode, and when detecting that the current voltage value of the first interface is equal to the second threshold, switching the second interface to the power supply mode.

[0098] In some specific embodiments, it may be set that upon detecting that a voltage equal to the first threshold is applied to the first interface, the second interface may be switched and maintained in the data transmission mode, after which there is no need to continuously apply a voltage equal to the first threshold to the first interface. When it is detected that a voltage equal to a second threshold is applied to the first interface, the second interface will be switched to the power supply mode. It can be understood that the second threshold is not equal to the first threshold.

[0099] In an optional embodiment, the first threshold may be in the range of 3-3.3V; and / or the second threshold may be in the range of 4-6V. It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present application, the specific values of the first threshold and the second threshold are not limited. Provided that it does not contravene the inventive concept of the application, they can be set to any two unequal values. As an exemplary and non-limiting illustration, the first threshold may be any value within the range of 3 to 3.3V, optionally, the first threshold is 3.3V. And the second threshold may be any value within the range of 4 to 6V, optionally, the second threshold is 5V. It can be understandable that voltages of 3 to 3.3V and 4 to 6V are relatively common in everyday life, thus these voltages may be conveniently obtained, which may further reduce production costs.

[0100] Embodiment 2

[0101] Corresponding to Embodiment 1 , the present application also provides an aerosol provision device 100, and the device 100 may be used to execute the switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device as provided in Embodiment 1. In this embodiment, for the content that is the same as or similar to that in Embodiment 1 , reference can be made to the previous description, and further elaboration is omitted here. Referring to Figure 3, the device comprises: a microcontroller 110, configured to detect the current voltage value of a first interface of the aerosol provision device, compare the current voltage value with a preset threshold to obtain a comparison result, and switch the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result; a first interface 120, configured to receive an external input voltage; and a second interface 130, configured to switch to the corresponding operating mode based on the comparison result.

[0102] It is understandable that the microcontroller mentioned here may utilize the one already integrated within the aerosol provision device itself, thereby avoiding the need for additional hardware costs for the aerosol supply device. By using the microcontroller 110 to detect the current voltage value at the first interface 120 of the aerosol provision device, then comparing the current voltage value with a preset threshold to obtain a comparison result, and finally switching the operating mode of the second interface 130 of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result, it is possible to achieve the reuse of the second interface without increasing the product size, thereby enabling the second interface to meet more functional requirements.

[0103] Further referring to Figure 3, the second interface 130 integrates a data interface and a pod connection interface for heating, wherein the data interface includes a data transmission end TX and a data reception end RX. It is understandable that the second interface 130 presents only one interface to the user, with its internal circuitry integrating the aforementioned data interface and pod connection interface. The specific implementation details will not be elaborated upon here.

[0104] Embodiment 3 Corresponding to Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the present application also provides an aerosol provision system, and the system includes at least the aerosol provision device as described in Embodiment 2. In this embodiment, for the content that is the same as or similar to that in Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, reference can be made to the previous description, and further elaboration is omitted here.

[0105] Embodiment 4

[0106] Corresponding to Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the present application also provides an adapter 200. In this embodiment, for the content that is the same as or similar to that in Embodiment 1 , reference can be made to the previous description, and further elaboration is omitted here. Referring to Figure 4, the adapter 200 comprises: an external terminal interface 210, configured to connect with an external terminal, allowing the external terminal to send data to an aerosol provision system or receive data from an aerosol provision device; a voltage supply port 220, configured to provide a voltage of a preset magnitude; and a data interface 230, configured to connect with an aerosol provision device, enabling the aerosol provision device to send data to the terminal or receive data from the external terminal.

[0107] It is understandable that, in the embodiments of the present application, the preset magnitude of voltage includes, but is not limited to, the voltage of the first threshold and the voltage of the second threshold as described in Embodiment 1.

[0108] In an optional embodiment, the adapter further comprises a power frequency conversion module 240, which is used to convert the power frequency of the external terminal and the aerosol provision device to be consistent.

[0109] It is understandable that the frequency of the external terminal and the aerosol supply device are synchronized to facilitate interaction between the external terminal and the aerosol provision device, such as data transmission.

[0110] Embodiment 5

[0111] Corresponding to Embodiment 2 and Embodiment 4, the present application also provides switching system of interface function for an aerosol provision device. Referring to Figure 5, the system comprises an aerosol provision device according to any one of the embodiments described in Embodiment 2 and the adapter according to any one of the embodiments described in Embodiment 4. In this embodiment, for the content that is the same as or similar to that in Embodiment 2 and Embodiment 4, reference can be made to the previous description, and further elaboration is omitted here.

[0112] It is understandable that the system may also comprise an external terminal 300, which may be used to exchange data with the aerosol provision device when the second interface is in the data transmission mode.

[0113] Embodiment 6 Corresponding to the Embodiment 1 , there is also provided a computer device, it comprises a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor, and when executed by the processor, the computer program implements the switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device as described above.

[0114] Figure 6 shows an exemplary computer device 1500, which can comprise a processor 1510, a video display adapter 1511 , a disk drive 1512, an input / output interface 1513, a network interface 1514, and a memory 1520. The processor 1510, video display adapter 1511 , disk drive 1512, input / output interface 1513, network interface 1514, and memory 1520 can be connected through a communication bus 1530.

[0115] The processor 1510 can be implemented using a general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits. The processor 1510 is configured to execute relevant programs to implement the technical solution provided by the present application.

[0116] The memory 1520 can be implemented in the form of ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), static storage devices, dynamic storage devices, etc. The memory 1520 can store an operating system 1521 for controlling the operation of electronic devices and a basic input / output system (BIOS)1522 for controlling low-level operations of electronic devices. In addition, it can also store a web browser 1523, a data storage management system 1524, and a device identification information processing system 1525, and so on. The device identification information processing system 1525 can be the application program that specifically implements the aforementioned steps in the embodiments of the present application. In summary, when implementing the technical solution provided in the present application through software or firmware, the relevant program code is stored in the memory 1520 and called and executed by the processor 1510.

[0117] The input / output interface 1513 is configured to connect the input / output module to achieve information input and output. The input / output / module can be configured as a component in the device (not shown in the figure), or can be externally connected to the device to provide corresponding functions. The input devices can include keyboards, mice, touch screens, microphones, various sensors, etc., while the output devices can include displays, speakers, vibrators, indicator lights, etc.

[0118] The network interface 1514 is configured to connect communication modules (not shown in the figure) to realize communication and interaction between this device and other devices. The communication module can realize communication through wired means (such as USB, network cable, etc.) or wireless means (such as mobile networks, WIFI, Bluetooth, etc.). The bus comprises a path for transmitting information between various components of the device, such as the processor 1510, the video display adapter 1511 , the disk drive 1512, the input / output interface 1513, the network interface 1514, and the memory 1520.

[0119] In addition, the electronic device can also obtain information on specific receiving conditions from the virtual resource object receiving condition information database for condition judgment, and so on.

[0120] It should be noted that although the above device only shows the processor 1510, the video display adapter 1511 , the disk drive 1512, the input / output interface 1513, the network interface 1514, the memory 1520, the bus, etc., during the specific implementation process, the device may include other components necessary for proper operation. In addition, those skilled in the art can understand that the above-mentioned device may also include only the components necessary to implement the solution of the present invention, and does not necessarily include all the components shown in the drawings.

[0121] Embodiment 7

[0122] Corresponding to Embodiment 1 , the present application also provides a computer- readable storage medium. In this embodiment, content that is the same or similar to Embodiment 1 can be referred to the above introduction, and will not be described in detail later.

[0123] The computer-readable storage medium has a computer program stored therein, and the computer program, when executed, implements the heating control method for an aerosol provision system as described above.

[0124] In embodiments, when the computer program is executed by the processor, steps corresponding to the method described in Embodiment 1 can also be implemented. Reference can be made to the detailed description in Embodiment 1 , which will not be described again here.

[0125] From the description of the above implementation methods, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the present application may be implemented by means of software plus the necessary general-purpose hardware platform. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present application, in essence or the part that contributes to the prior art, may be embodied in the form of a software product. And the computer software product may be stored in a storage medium, such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disks, optical disks, etc., and includes a number of instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in various embodiments or certain parts of the embodiments of the present application.

[0126] Each embodiment in this specification may be described in a progressive manner, and identical or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from the other embodiments. In particular, for the system or system embodiments, since they are substantially similar to the method embodiments, the description is relatively simple, and relevant parts can be referred to the description of the method embodiments. The system and system embodiments described above are merely illustrative, wherein the units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components displayed as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place, or may be distributed over multiple network units. Depending on the actual needs, some or all of the modules may be selected to achieve the objectives of the solution of this embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art may understand and implement it without creative efforts.

[0127] It should be understood that each part of the present application may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware or combinations thereof. In the above implementations, multiple steps or methods may be implemented with software or firmware stored in memory and executed by an appropriate instruction execution system. For example, if it is implemented by hardware, as in another implementation, it can be implemented by any one of the following technologies known in the art or combinations thereof: discrete logic circuits with logic gate circuits for implementing logic functions for data signal, special integrated circuits with appropriate combined logic gate circuits, programmable gate arrays (PGAs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0128] 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 example are comprised in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In this specification, the indicative expression of the above-mentioned terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the described specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable way in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0129] 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 the present application, the term "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0130] In the present application, 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 application based on the circumstances.

[0131] Although the embodiments of the application 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 application. Those skilled in the art within the scope of the application can make variations, modifications, replacements, and variations to the abovedescribed embodiments.

Claims

Claims1. A switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device, the method comprising: detecting the current voltage value of a first interface of the aerosol provision device; comparing the current voltage value with a preset threshold value to obtain a comparison result; and switching the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result.

2. The switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to claim 1 , wherein the operating mode comprises a power supply mode and a data transmission mode.

3. The switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein the preset threshold comprises a first threshold, and switching the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result comprises: when the current voltage value is equal to the first threshold, switching the second interface to the data transmission mode, wherein the second interface can receive or transmit relevant data in the data transmission mode.

4. The switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to claim 3, wherein the method further comprises: continuously detecting the real-time voltage value of the first interface, and when the realtime voltage value is not equal to the first threshold, ending the data transmission mode of the second interface.

5. The switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to claim 4, wherein the method further comprises: after ending the data transmission mode of the second interface, switching the second interface to the power supply mode, wherein the second interface is capable of providing power in the power supply mode.

6. The switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to claim 3, wherein, when the current voltage value is not equal to the first threshold, switchingthe second interface to the power supply mode, wherein the second interface is capable of providing power in the power supply mode.

7. The switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to claim 3, wherein the preset threshold further comprises a second threshold, the method further comprising: when the current voltage value is equal to the first threshold, switching the second interface to the data transmission mode and maintaining the data transmission mode, and when detecting that the current voltage value of the first interface is equal to the second threshold, switching the second interface to the power supply mode.

8. The switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to claim 7, wherein the first threshold is in the range of 3-3.3V; and / or the second threshold is in the range of 4-6V.

9. The switching method of interface function for an aerosol provision device according to claim 8, wherein the first threshold is 3.3V; and / or the second threshold is 5V.

10. An aerosol provision device, wherein the device comprises: a microcontroller, configured for detecting the current voltage value of a first interface of the aerosol provision device; comparing the current voltage value with a preset threshold to obtain a comparison result; and switching the operating mode of a second interface of the aerosol provision device based on the comparison result; a first interface, configured to receive an external input voltage; and a second interface, configured to switch to the corresponding operating mode based on the comparison result.

11. An aerosol provision system, wherein, the system comprises at least one aerosol provision device as claimed in claim 10.

12. An adapter comprising: an external terminal interface, configured for connecting with an external terminal, allowing the external terminal to send data to an aerosol provision system or receive data from an aerosol provision device; a voltage supply port, configured for providing a voltage of a preset magnitude; anda data interface, configured for connecting with an aerosol provision device, enabling the aerosol provision device to send data to the terminal or receive data from the external terminal.

13. The adapter according to claim 12, wherein the adapter further comprises a power frequency conversion module, which is configured to convert the power frequency of the external terminal and the aerosol provision device to be consistent.

14. A switching system of interface function for an aerosol provision device, wherein the system comprises an aerosol provision device as claimed in claim 10 and an adapter as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 13.

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