An aerosol generating device comprising a pressure sensor and operating method

Abstract

The present invention discloses an aerosol-generating device. An aerosol-generating device comprises a body (200) configured to hold a cartridge (100). The aerosol generating device includes a pressure sensor (307) capable of detecting pressure in at least one airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. Further, the aerosol generating device includes a control unit (300). The control unit (300) receives a pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307), determines a plurality of pressure signal parameters, detects a plurality of events based on at least two of the determined plurality of pressure signal parameters. Further, the control unit (300) controls operation of the aerosol generating device in response to a detected event from the plurality of events.

Description

TITLE OF THE INVENTIONAN AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICE COMPRISING A PRESSURE SENSOR AND OPERATING METHODFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, specifically an aerosol generating device wherein a control unit detects user activity and modifies the operations of the aerosol generating device accordingly.CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] Applicant claims priority and the benefit of Indian Provisional Patent application 202411046801, filed 18 June 2024 (18-06-2024), said application being hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by referenceBACKGROUND OF INVENTION

[0003] An aerosol-generating device typically consists of a cartridge and a body. The cartridge contains an aerosol generating substrate (e.g. in a liquid form), a heater assembly, a condensation chamber and an absorbent pad. The heater assembly includes a heating element, which heats the aerosol generating substrate to produce the aerosol. The condensation chamber is within the cartridge wherein the aerosol generated cools slightly and condenses to form an aerosol that can be inhaled. The absorbent pad is often made of materials like cotton, which ensures that any excess liquid is absorbed to prevent leakage and maintain a consistent flow of liquid to the heater assembly. The body comprises a battery, a printed circuit board (PCB), an inhalation sensor assembly, external switches, LEDs, a display, and a wireless interface. A rechargeable battery provides the necessary energy to heat the coil and power the other electronic components of the aerosol generating device. The Printed Circuit Board (PCB) houses the control unit of the aerosol generating device, which is responsible for monitoring and regulating the aerosol generating device's functions, including power delivery to the heater, monitoring and measuring the inhalation sensor output and operation of LEDs and displays. The control unit also manages safety features such as the prevention of overheating.The inhalation sensor assembly includes a sensor that detects when the user inhales. The inhalation sensor assembly activates the heater assembly to produce aerosol, ensuring that aerosol is generated only when required.

[0004] An aerosol-generating device's performance can be adjusted by an external switch or wireless communication. These adjustments may include changing the power level, turning on wireless mode, switching between silent and active modes, and power-saving mode. However, these external interfaces can negatively affect the aerosol generating device's appearance, as they are typically mechanical switches that take up space and create design constraints. Although incorporating mechanical switches into the device is an easy option, it can lead to additional costs and parts that may be unnecessary for both the manufacturer and the consumer. Some devices are available in the market without mechanical switches, but they have a wireless interface allowing users to modify their operating behavior. While the addition of a wireless interface to an aerosol-generating device can provide benefits like personalized settings, usage tracking, and convenient firmware updates, it also brings several drawbacks. The drawbacks include increased complexity and cost, battery drain, security risks, potential software reliability issues, user dependency on technology and regulatory challenges.

[0005] These limitations can be addressed if the users are provided with options for modifying the aerosol generating device's operations without adding extra switches or wireless interface. This can be achieved by making use of the existing components to alter the aerosol generating device's operations. Currently, the MIC / audio sensor used in aerosol generating devices only detects the presence of airflow in the vicinity of the sensor. Further, the MIC sensors in the existing devices are unable to differentiate between a user inhalation (suction / drawing air through the cartridge) and a user exhalation (blowing into the aerosol generating device). Whenever the user blows into the aerosol generating device, the chances of false triggering of the aerosol generating devices are high. In contrast, a pressure sensor accurately detects positive and negative air pressure in the vicinity of the sensor.

[0006] Prior art US10130123 describes apparatuses including vaporizers that are adapted to prevent one or more failure modes that may result from blowing into the mouthpiece, which may be referred to herein as blow rejection or blow discrimination. In general, such vaporizers and methods of operating a vaporizer may include a pressure sensor that regulates the baseline pressure readings. These may be actual pressure readings or may be unconverted sensor readings, such as capacitance measurements during a blow and / or a draw through the mouthpiece to prevent instability that may otherwise result from blowing into the mouthpiece. It is primarily designed to prevent false activation in the device by differentiating between suction and blowing using a pressure sensor. However, this prior art is unable to detect multiple events.

[0007] Prior artUSl 1606970B2 describes avaporizer device with a pressure sensor and an ambient pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may be configured to measure a first pressure in an air flow path in the vaporizer device. The ambient pressure sensor may be configured to measure a second pressure corresponding to an atmospheric pressure. Two pressure sensors are required to be used to control device functionality. The inclusion of an additional sensor increases the complexity and manufacturing cost in the said prior art.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to provide the users with ability to control the aerosol generating device functionalities with existing components and with minimum number of sensors. The additional functionalities need to be achieved without the use of external switches, which can be either mechanical switch or touch sensor switch (based on capacitance or resistance), or wireless interface.OBJECT OF INVENTION

[0009] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:

[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to design an aerosol generating device providing users with options for modifying the aerosol generating device's operations without adding extra components such as switches or wireless interface.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to design an aerosol generating device providing users with options for modifying the aerosol generating device's operations using existing components.

[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to design an aerosol generating device reducing the complexity of the user interface.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to achieve a cost-efficient design by eliminating the need for external switches and wireless interface, thereby reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0014] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] An aspect of the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device which comprises a pressure sensor configured to detect pressure in at least one airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device can include a control unit which is operatively connected to the pressure sensor. The control unit can receive a pressure signal from the pressure sensor. The control unit can determine a plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal. Further, the control unit can detect a plurality of events based on at least two of the determined plurality of pressure signal parameters and can control operation of the aerosol generating device in response to a detected event from the plurality of events. The plurality of pressure signal parameters comprises instantaneous pressure signal, a time duration of the pressure signal, a polarity of the pressure signal and a signal pattern of the pressure signal. The aerosol generating device comprises a body and a cartridge and the body can be configured to hold the cartridge. The plurality of events comprises user inhalation, inserting the cartridge into the body of the aerosol generating device by a user, removing the cartridge from the body by the user and user exhalation.

[0016] In another aspect, the polarity of the pressure signal can be a positive pressure signal or a negative pressure signal. The positive pressure signal can be defined as the pressure signal above ambient pressure. The negative pressure signal can be defined as the pressure signal below the ambient pressure.

[0017] In another aspect, the time duration of the pressure signal is a duration of time determined based on a difference of a first time and a second time. The first time is time from when the instantaneous pressure signal starts from the ambient pressure and the second time is time when the instantaneous pressure signal reaches back to the ambient pressure.

[0018] In another aspect, the signal pattern is determined based on one or more events occurring within a predefined time interval.

[0019] In another aspect, the instantaneous pressure signal depends on at least one of each event, the geometry of the aerosol generating device, construction of the aerosol generating device and user behavior for each event.

[0020] In another aspect, the control unit is configured to activate the aerosol generating device based on inhalation detection event and prevent unintended activation of the aerosol generating device based on exhalation detection event.

[0021] In another aspect, the control unit is configured to continuously monitor the detected event and automatically transition the aerosol generating device to a sleep mode when the cartridge is removed and when no event is detected within a predefined time duration.

[0022] In another aspect, the control unit is configured to continuously monitor the detected event and activate the aerosol generating device into active mode when the cartridge is inserted.

[0023] In another aspect, the control unit is further configured to periodically recalibrate the pressure sensor output to account for changes in the ambient pressure or temperature, ensuring accurate differentiation between the positive pressure signal and the negative pressure signal.

[0024] In an aspect of the present invention, a method of operating the aerosol generating device comprises: detecting pressure, by the pressure sensor, in at least one airflow channel of the aerosol generating device, receiving, by the control unit, the pressure signal from the pressure sensor, determining, by the control unit, the plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal, detecting, by the control unit, the plurality of events based on at least two of the determined plurality of pressure signal parameters and controlling, by the control unit, operation of the aerosol generating device in response to the detected event from the plurality of events. The plurality of pressure signal parameters comprises the instantaneous pressure signal, the time duration of the pressure signal, the polarity of the pressure signal and the signal pattern of the pressure signal.

[0025] The present invention negates the use of extra components thereby reducing the cost and improving the design and aesthetic aspects. In the present invention, the user can operate the aerosol generating devices using simple methods without the use of extra components.

[0026] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device providing users with options for modifying the operations of the aerosol generating device without adding extra switches or wireless interface. The users can modify the operations of the aerosol generating device using modification in the existing components such as an inhalation sensor. In the present invention, the pressure sensor is used in place of MIC / audio sensor as an inhalation sensor. In the existing technology, MIC / audio sensor is used to detect inhalation by the user. The MIC sensor / audio sensor only detects the presence of airflow in the vicinity of the sensor.

[0027] In contrast, the pressure sensor accurately detects positive and negative air pressure in the vicinity of the pressure sensor. Positive air pressure occurs when the user blows into the aerosol generating device or when the user inserts the cartridge into the body of the aerosol generating device, while negative air pressure occurs when the user draws air through the cartridge of the aerosol generating device or when the user removes the cartridge from the body of the aerosol generating device. The precise detection of positive and negative air pressure helps to distinguish theuser's intention, whether they want to use the aerosol generating device for aerosol generation or control the operations of the aerosol generating device based on the requirements. The use of the pressure sensor instead of the MIC / audio sensor allows the control unit to easily differentiate the user activity by monitoring the pressure sensor output (positive / negative air pressure signal) and pressure signal parameters and adjusting the operation of the aerosol generating device accordingly. In the existing devices, user blowing into the mouthpiece may lead to initiation of aerosol generating device heating, which is known as false triggering. The aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention, prevents false triggering of the aerosol generating device and provides the user with additional functionalities including cartridge detection, time reduction between starting of inhalation and heating, reducing the end of inhalation time, dynamic adjustment of power level, change of operating mode, checking of battery charge level and the like.

[0028] In the present invention, the users are provided with options for modifying the operations of the aerosol generating device using existing components eliminating the need for extra parts. Further, avoiding the need for a wireless interface results in reducing the complexity of the user interface. The design as per the present disclosure is cost-efficient, which reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0029] The other objects, features and advantages will occur to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings in which:

[0030] Figure l is a schematic representation illustrating components of the aerosol generating device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the aerosol generating device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3 is a graphical representation of a pressure signal from the pressure sensor with respect to time during a cartridge insertion event, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 4 is a graphical representation of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor with respect to time during user exhalation event, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 5 is a graphical representation of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor with respect to time during a cartridge removal event, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6A and Figure 6B are graphical representations of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor with respect to time during user inhalation event, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 is graphical representation of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor with respect to time during cartridge double insertion event occurring within a predefined time interval, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 8 is graphical representation of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor with respect to time during the cartridge insertion and the cartridge removal events occurring within a predefined time interval, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 9 illustrates an exemplary representation of a method (900) of operating an aerosol generating device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] The present invention may be embodied in several forms, and the details of embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following content with figures. The embodiments described below with reference to the drawings are merely illustrative of the technical solutions of the present disclosure but are not to be construed as limited to the technical solutions of the present disclosure.

[0040] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings but are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of the present invention is provided for illustration purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims. As used in the description of the invention and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0042] In primary embodiment of the present invention, the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device providing users with options for modifying / controlling the aerosol generating device's operations without adding extra switches or wireless interface. The modification of the aerosol generating device operations include prevention of false triggering, cartridge detection, time reduction between starting of inhalation and heating, dynamic adjustment of power level, change of operating mode checking of battery charge level and the like.

[0043] In another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device providing users with the option of preventing false triggering of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device uses pressure sensors in place of an inhalation sensor. The pressure sensor can detect and differentiate between a positive air pressure signal and a negative air pressure signal. When the device is started for aerosol generation, the first negative air pressure signal occurs and stays until the user stops inhalation. In one embodiment,at the end of the inhalation, a positive air pressure signal occurs when the user stops aerosol generation. The operation of the aerosol generating device can be controlled by detecting the above signal patterns.

[0044] In another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device providing users with option of reducing the delay between inhalation detection and heating a heater (heating element) on time. This is achieved by precision identification of positive air pressure signal or positive pressure signal and negative air pressure signal or negative pressure signal. The control unit starts the heating element immediately after detecting a negative air pressure signal. Negative air pressure signal occurs with suction in the aerosol generating device through the cartridge. The aerosol generating device is designed to be highly responsive to inhalation by the user. The aerosol generating device can detect the positive air pressure signal and duration of the user's breath when they blow into the aerosol generating device. In an embodiment, based on the above input, the control unit of the aerosol generating device dynamically adjusts the operating power level to provide a smooth transition between different levels, thereby ensuring that the user receives the optimal amount of power for their needs at any given time. An indication LED is included in the device to provide a clear indication of the current power level status. The indication LED can be a single multicolor LED or an array of single LEDs in various colors such as green, red, white, blue or orange. The indication LEDs may display a different color or color combination based on the current power level, allowing the user to quickly and easily adjust the device to their desired level of power.

[0045] In another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device providing users with option of changing the aerosol generating device operation modes. The aerosol generating device can have various operating modes such as active mode and power save mode or sleep mode. The aerosol generating device can also adjust the operating temperature of the heating element, such as low inhalation (low set heater temperature) and high inhalation (high set heater temperature) by adjusting the power level. In anembodiment, the user can remove and reinsert the cartridge into the aerosol generating device twice within two seconds for changing the operation mode of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device is provided with haptic feedback that can be sensed on the aerosol generating device by which the user can detect changes in the operating modes. The user can easily switch between different operating modes based on the requirements. The operating modes can be selected based on whether the user wants to conserve battery power or have a more intense aerosol generating experience.

[0046] In another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device providing users with option of display of battery charge level. In an embodiment, this can be achieved by removing and reinserting the cartridge in a specified manner. For example, if the user inserts the cartridge into the aerosol generating device and removes it, and then repeats this process two more times within two seconds, the aerosol generating device's battery charge level will be displayed through the indication LEDs provided on the device. The said feature provides a convenient way for the users to quickly check the battery level without having to navigate through menus or using a separate device such as a mobile phone.

[0047] In another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device providing users with options for modifying the aerosol generating device's operations using existing components. In the existing technology, MIC / audio sensor is used as an inhalation sensor in the aerosol generating devices. The inhalation by user is detected by means of the presence of airflow, which leads to activation of the heating element. However, the user may sometimes blow into a mouthpiece which may lead to false triggering of the device. This happens because the MIC / audio sensor can detect the presence of airflow but cannot differentiate inhalation or draw from blow. In the present invention, pressure sensor is used as an inhalation sensor in place of a MIC / audio sensor. The pressure sensor can detect and can differentiate inhalation / draw from blowing into the mouthpiece, thereby avoiding false triggering of the device.

[0048] Figure l is a schematic representation illustrating components of the aerosol generating device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] The aerosol generating device consists of two parts: a cartridge (100) and a body (200). The cartridge (100) has a heating element (heater) and wick assembly (101), an aerosol generating substrate (102) and a condensation chamber (103). The body (200) has a control unit (300) that controls the overall function of the aerosol generating device, and an energy source (201). The body (200) is detachably attached to the cartridge (100).

[0050] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the aerosol generating device, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 2 illustrates a functional block diagram of the aerosol generating device which can control different operations of the aerosol generating device. Controlling operation of the aerosol generating device can include implementing functionality of the aerosol generating device. In an embodiment, the control unit(300) can be configured to supply different power levels to the heating element (101) based on the need of a user. Therefore, the functionality can change the power level of the aerosol generating device from one level to another. In another embodiment, the functionality can be changing mode of the aerosol generating device which can have different operating modes such as the sleep mode (the power save mode) and the active mode. The aerosol generating device can also have a low power mode (low inhalation mode / low set heater temperature) and a high power mode (high inhalation mode / high set heater temperature), according to an embodiment of the present invention. The control unit (300) has a microcontroller(301), battery charge controller (302), fuel gauge (303), input supply connector (304), pogo pins (305), heat cycle counter / memory (306), pressure sensor (307), indication LEDs (308) and MOSFET load switch (309).

[0052] The aerosol generating device can include the pressure sensor (307) configured to detect pressure in at least one airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may include one or more airflowchannels or airflow vents. In an embodiment, at least one airflow channel or airflow vent can be at cartridge end of the aerosol generating device. In another embodiment, at least one airflow channel or airflow vent can also be at the body of the aerosol generating device.

[0053] The pressure sensor (307) can be placed at path of the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device, so that the pressure sensor (307) can detect the pressure whenever an event occurs from the user. For example, the event can be the user drawing air through the aerosol generating device, the user inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200), the user blowing into the aerosol generating device, the user removing the cartridge (100) from the body (200), and the like.

[0054] The aerosol generating device comprises the body (200) and the cartridge (100), wherein body (200) is configured to hold the cartridge (100). The body (200) of the aerosol generating device further comprises a control unit (300) and the energy source (201). The energy source (201) can be a rechargeable battery and charged through charging port (202). The control unit (300) is operatively connected to the pressure sensor (307) and is configured to receive a pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307). The control unit (300) can determine a plurality of pressure signal parameters from the pressure signal received from the pressure sensor (307). The plurality of pressure signal parameters can include instantaneous pressure signal, a time duration (T) of the pressure signal, a polarity of the pressure signal and a signal pattern of the pressure signal and the like. The instantaneous pressure signal is the instant value of the pressure signal detected from the pressure sensor (307). The instantaneous pressure signal depends on at least one of each event, the geometry of the aerosol generating device, construction of the aerosol generating device and user behavior for each event. In an embodiment, the instantaneous pressure signal can vary from one aerosol generating device to another aerosol generating device which may have different design or different construction or different geometry. In another embodiment, the instantaneous pressure signal can vary depending on the event. Further, the instantaneous pressure signal can vary depending on the user behavior in each event. In an example, thepressure signal detected by the pressure sensor (307) can be proportional to airflow through the at least one airflow channel or airflow vent of the aerosol generating device.

[0055] The control unit (300) can detect a plurality of events based on at least two of the determined plurality of pressure signal parameters. The plurality of events can include the user drawing air through the cartridge (100) of the aerosol generating device (user inhalation), the user inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200) (cartridge insertion), the user blowing into the aerosol generating device (user exhalation) and the user removing the cartridge (100) from the body (200) (cartridge removal). The user may sometimes blow into a mouthpiece (mouth end) or into a charging end which may lead to false triggering in the existing aerosol generating device. However, in the present invention, the control unit can accurately differentiate between the user inhalation (suction) and the user exhalation (blowing) based on the pressure sensor output. In the present invention, based on the instantaneous pressure signal and the polarity of the pressure signal (P, N), a cartridge insertion or a cartridge detection event can be determined by the control unit (300). The control unit (300) can further control operation of the aerosol generating device in response to a detected event from the plurality of events. Here, the event detected by the control unit (300), is the cartridge insertion or the cartridge detection. The control unit (300) can activate the aerosol generating device when the cartridge (100) is inserted. The control unit (300) may be configured to continuously monitor the detected event and the control unit (300) may be configured to activate the aerosol generating device into active mode when a cartridge insertion event occurs.

[0056] The time duration (T) of the pressure signal is a duration of time determined based on a difference between a first time (Ti) and a second time (T2). The first time is (Ti) time from when the instantaneous pressure signal starts from the ambient pressure (PA) and the second time (T2) is time when the instantaneous pressure signal reaches back to the ambient pressure (PA). In an embodiment, the instantaneous pressure signal starts from the ambient pressure (PA), goes above theambient pressure (PA), reaches an amplitude value and reaches back to the ambient pressure (PA), which results in a positive pressure signal. In an embodiment, the instantaneous pressure signal starts from the ambient pressure (PA), goes below the ambient pressure (PA), reaches an amplitude value and reaches back to the ambient pressure (PA), which results in a negative pressure signal.

[0057] The polarity of the pressure signal is determined as the positive pressure signal or the negative pressure signal, and wherein the positive polarity (P) is defined as the instantaneous pressure signal above ambient pressure (PA) and the negative polarity (N) is defined as the instantaneous pressure signal below the ambient pressure (PA). For example, events such as cartridge insertion (cartridge detection) and the user exhalation (blowing detection or exhalation detection), the polarity of the pressure signal is positive polarity (P). For events, such as the cartridge removal and the user inhalation (suction detection or inhalation detection), the polarity of the pressure signal is negative polarity (N).

[0058] The signal pattern (S) is determined based on one or more events occurring within a predefined time interval (Ti). For example, the events occurring in a sequence within a span of time (predefined time interval (Ti)) can be used to determine the signal pattern (S). In another example, the events repeating within a span of time (predefined time interval (Ti)) can be used to determine the signal pattern (S).

[0059] The instantaneous pressure signal depends on at least one of each event, the geometry of the aerosol generating device, the construction of the aerosol generating device and the user behavior for each event. For example, for each event occurring the instantaneous pressure signal can be different. The instantaneous pressure signal can vary depending on the geometry of the aerosol generating device and construction of the aerosol generating device. Further, the instantaneous pressure signal can vary depending on the user behavior or user effort in each event. Depending on each user and depending on the user effort for each event, the instantaneous pressure signal may vary.

[0060] In an embodiment, the pressure sensor (307) is either MEMS based pressure sensor, a digital pressure sensor and an analog pressure sensor. The control unit (300) of the aerosol generating device is also configured to periodically recalibrate the pressure sensor (307) output to account for changes in the ambient pressure (PA) or temperature, ensuring accurate differentiation between the positive pressure signal and the negative pressure signal.

[0061] The control unit (300) is further configured to activate the aerosol generating device based on inhalation detection event and prevent unintended activation of the aerosol generating device based on exhalation detection event. For example, an atomizer unit of the aerosol generating device can include the heating element and the wick (101). The atomizer unit can be connected to the energy source (201). Further, the control unit (300) can be electrically connected to the energy source (201) and to the atomizer unit. Upon activation of the aerosol generating device in response to the inhalation detection event, the energy source (201) can provide electricity through the atomizer unit, which results in heating up of the heating element (101). The aerosol generating device can include the battery which is the energy source (201), usually may be a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The battery provides the electricity required to heat the heating element (101) and aerosolize the aerosol generating substrate (aerosol generating liquid). In another example, in response to the exhalation detection event; the control unit (300) may not activate the aerosol generating device.

[0062] Figure 3 is a graphical representation of a pressure signal from the pressure sensor with respect to time during the cartridge insertion event, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] The pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time while inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200) of the aerosol generating device is illustrated in Figure 3. In an embodiment, when the cartridge (100) is inserted into the body (200) of the aerosol generating device, the pressure sensor (307) can detect the pressure signal. The control unit (300) can receive the pressuresignal and the control unit (300) can determine the plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal. In an embodiment, the control unit (300) is configured to determine the event as cartridge insertion based on the plurality of pressure signal parameters such as the polarity of the pressure signal (P, N) and the instantaneous pressure signal. The polarity of the pressure signal (P, N) which is determined during the cartridge insertion is the positive pressure signal. The instantaneous pressure signal determined by the control unit (300) can also be used to detect the event as cartridge insertion.

[0064] In an embodiment, in response to detecting the event as cartridge insertion, the control unit (300) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device, such as implementing functionality of the aerosol generating device. The cartridge insertion event can implement the functionality such as changing the mode of the aerosol generating device. In this embodiment, the operation of the aerosol generating device which can be controlled or the functionality which can be implemented is switching / transitioning the aerosol generating device into active mode.

[0065] As illustrated in Figure 3, the time duration (T) of the pressure signal is a duration of time determined based on a difference between the first time (Ti) and the second time (T2). The first time (Ti) is the time when the instantaneous pressure signal starts from the ambient pressure (PA) and the second time (T2) is the time when the instantaneous pressure signal reaches back to the ambient pressure (PA).

[0066] Figure 4 is a graphical representation of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time during the user exhalation event, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] The pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time when the user blows into the aerosol generating device (blowing detection or exhalation detection), is illustrated in Figure 4.

[0068] In an embodiment, when the user blows air into the aerosol generating device, the pressure sensor (307) can detect the pressure signal. The control unit (300) can receive the pressure signal, and the control unit (300) can determine the plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal. In an embodiment, the control unit (300) is configured to determine the event as user exhalation based on the plurality of pressure signal parameters such as the polarity of the pressure signal (P, N), the instantaneous pressure signal and the time duration (T) of the pressure signal. The polarity of the pressure signal (P, N) which is determined during the user exhalation or blowing detection is the positive pressure signal. The instantaneous pressure signal determined by control unit (300) can also be used to detect the event as user exhalation or blowing detection. For example, the instantaneous pressure signal determined by the control unit (300) for this event is different from the cartridge insertion event and therefore can be used to differentiate between the cartridge insertion event and the user exhalation event. Further, based on the time duration (T) of the pressure signal, the control unit (300) can detect or identify the event as the user exhalation or the blowing detection event. The time duration (T) of the pressure signal for the user exhalation event is high in comparison to the time duration (T) of the pressure signal for cartridge insertion and the time duration of the pressure signal can be used to differentiate between the cartridge insertion event and the user exhalation event. In an embodiment, the user effort needed for the user exhalation event can be different compared to the cartridge insertion event which can affect the change in the instantaneous pressure signal and the time duration (T) of the pressure signal. For example, the time duration (T) taken for the cartridge insertion event may be in a range of 10ms to 50ms and the time duration (T) for the user exhalation event may be greater than 50ms, so that detection between the cartridge insertion event and the user exhalation event can be done easily by the control unit (300).

[0069] In an embodiment, in response to detecting the event as user exhalation, the control unit (300) can be used to control the operation of the aerosol generating device. The control unit (300) can prevent unintended activation of the aerosolgenerating device, thereby preventing false triggering of the aerosol generating device, in response to user exhalation event.

[0070] In an embodiment, an event can also be defined as the user blowing air (user exhalation) into the aerosol generating device two or more times within the predefined time interval. The control unit (300) is configured to determine the event based on the plurality of pressure signal parameters such as the polarity of the pressure signal (P, S), the instantaneous pressure signal, the time duration (T) of the pressure signal and the signal pattern (S). The signal pattern (S) is determined by the control unit (300) based on one or more events occurring within the predefined time interval (Ti). For example, when the user exhalation occurs twice within the predefined time interval (Ti), two positive air pressure signals may occur within the predefined time interval (Ti) and can be considered as the signal pattern (S) used to determine the event. In an embodiment, in response to detecting above event, the control unit (300) can change the power level of the aerosol generating device from one level to another. In another embodiment, the control unit (300) can change the power from the low power mode (low inhalation or low set heater temperature) to the high power mode (high inhalation or high set heater temperature).

[0071] Figure 5 is a graphical representation of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time during a cartridge removal event, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] The pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time while removing the cartridge (100) from the body (200) of the aerosol generating device is illustrated in Figure 5.

[0073] In an embodiment, when the cartridge (100) is removed from the body (200) of the aerosol generating device, the pressure sensor (307) can detect the pressure signal. The control unit (300) can receive the pressure signal, and the control unit (300) can determine the plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal. In an embodiment, the control unit (300) is configured to determine the event as cartridge removal based on the plurality of pressure signal parameterssuch as the polarity of the pressure signal (P, N) and the instantaneous pressure signal. The polarity of the pressure signal which is determined during the cartridge removal is the negative pressure signal (N). The instantaneous pressure signal determined by the control unit (300) can also be used to detect the event as the cartridge removal. Further, the control unit (300) is configured to determine that no event is detected within the predefined time duration (T). For example, the predefined time duration (T) taken for the control unit (300) to determine whether no event is detected after the cartridge removal event may be 100ms.

[0074] In an embodiment, in response to detecting the event as the cartridge removal, the control unit (300) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device. For example, the control unit (300) can be configured to transition or switch the aerosol generating device into sleep mode (power save mode) when the cartridge (100) is removed and when no event is detected within the predefined time duration (T).

[0075] Figure 6A and Figure 6B are graphical representations of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time during the user inhalation event, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] The pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time when the user draws air through the aerosol generating device (suction detection or inhalation detection) in two different scenarios is illustrated in Figure 6A and Figure 6B.

[0077] In an embodiment, referring to Figure 6A, when the user inhales or when the user is drawing air through the aerosol generating device, the pressure sensor (307) can detect the pressure signal. The control unit (300) can receive the pressure signal, and the control unit (300) can determine the plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal. In an embodiment, the control unit (300) is configured to determine the event as the user inhalation based on the plurality of pressure signal parameters such as the polarity of the pressure signal (P, N), the instantaneous pressure signal and the time duration (T) of the pressuresignal. The polarity of the pressure signal which is determined during the user inhalation or suction detection is the negative pressure signal (N). The instantaneous pressure signal determined by the control unit (300) can also be used to detect the event as user inhalation or suction detection. For example, the instantaneous pressure signal determined by the control unit (300) for this event is different from the cartridge removal event and therefore can be used to differentiate between the cartridge removal event and the user inhalation event. Further, based on the time duration (T) of the pressure signal, the control unit (300) can detect or identify the event as the user inhalation. The time duration (T) of the pressure signal for the user inhalation event is high in comparison to the time duration (T) of the pressure signal for the cartridge removal and therefore, the time duration (T) of the pressure signal and can also be used to differentiate between the cartridge removal event and the user inhalation event. In an embodiment, the user effort needed for the user inhalation event can be different compared to the cartridge removal event which can affect the change in the instantaneous pressure signal and the time duration (T) of the pressure signal. For example, the time duration (T) taken for the cartridge removal event may be 10ms to 50ms and the time duration (T) for the user inhalation event may be greater than 50ms, so that detection between the cartridge removal event and the user inhalation event can be done easily by the control unit (300).

[0078] In another embodiment, referring to Figure 6B, when the user inhales or when the user is drawing air through the aerosol generating device, the pressure sensor (307) can detect the pressure signal. The control unit (300) can receive the pressure signal and can determine the plurality of pressure signal parameters. The control unit (300) can determine the event as the user inhalation based on the plurality of pressure signal parameters such as the polarity of the pressure signal (P, N), the instantaneous pressure signal, the time duration (T) of the pressure signal and the signal pattern (S) of the pressure signal. In this embodiment of the user inhalation or the suction detection event, when the user inhales, first the negative air pressure signal (N) occurs and stays until the user stops inhalation. At the endof the inhalation, a small positive air pressure signal (P) occurs due to back flow of the ambient pressure (PA). In this scenario, the control unit (300) can detect or identify the inhalation event based on the signal pattern (S) along with other plurality of the pressure signal parameters. The control unit (300) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device, in response to detecting the event. For example, this event can activate the aerosol generating device.

[0079] In both scenarios as illustrated in Figure 6A and Figure 6B, in response to detecting the event as the user inhalation, the control unit (300) can be used to control the operation of the aerosol generating device. For example, in both scenarios, the user inhalation event can activate the aerosol generating device.

[0080] In an embodiment, an event can also be defined as the user drawing air (user inhalation) through the aerosol generating device two or more times within the predefined time interval (Ti). The control unit (300) is configured to determine the event based on the plurality of pressure signal parameters such as the polarity of the pressure signal (P, N), the instantaneous pressure signal, the time duration (T) of the pressure signal and the signal pattern (S). The signal pattern (S) is determined by the control unit (300) based on one or more events occurring within the predefined time interval (Ti). For example, when the user inhalation occurs twice within the predefined time interval (Ti), two negative air pressure signals (N) may occur within the predefined time interval (Ti) and can be considered as the signal pattern (S) used to determine the event. In an embodiment, the above detected event can be used to change the power level of the aerosol generating device from one level to another. In another embodiment, the event can be used to change the power from the low power mode (low inhalation or low set heater temperature) to the high power mode (high inhalation or high set heater temperature).

[0081] Figure 7 is graphical representation of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time during cartridge double insertion event occurring within the predefined time interval, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] The pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time while inserting the cartridge (100) twice into the body (200) of the aerosol generating device is illustrated in Figure 7. The event can be defined as inserting the cartridge (100) into the body twice within the predefined time interval (Ti). In this case, one positive pressure signal (P), one negative pressure signal (N) and one positive pressure signal (P) can occur in sequence within the predefined time interval (Ti) and can be defined as the signal pattern (S) as illustrated in Figure 7. In an embodiment, the control unit (300) can be configured to detect the cartridge double insertion event and to change the power level of the aerosol generating device from one level to another in response to detecting the cartridge double insertion event. In another embodiment, the cartridge double insertion event can be used to change the mode of the aerosol generating device, for example from sleep mode to the active mode.

[0083] In yet another embodiment, an event can also be defined as inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200) of the aerosol generating device more than two times within the predefined time interval (Ti).

[0084] Figure 8 is graphical representation of the pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time during the cartridge insertion and the cartridge removal events occurring within the predefined time interval (Ti), according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] The pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) with respect to time while inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200) and removing the cartridge (100) from the body (200) within the predefined time interval (TI) is illustrated in Figure 8.

[0086] In an embodiment, an event can also be defined as inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200) and removing the cartridge (100) from the body (200) within the predefined time interval (Ti). In this case, one positive pressure signal (P) and one negative pressure signal (N) can occur in sequence within the predefined time interval (Ti) and can be defined as the signal pattern (S) asillustrated in Figure 8. The control unit (300) can be configured to detect the mentioned event and can change the power level of the aerosol generating device from one level to another. In an embodiment, the mentioned event can be used to change the mode of the aerosol generating device, for example from the sleep mode to the active mode.

[0087] In another embodiment, the event can also be defined as removing the cartridge (100) from the body (200) and inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200) within the predefined time interval. In this case, one negative pressure signal (N) and one positive pressure signal (P) can occur within the predefined time interval (Ti) and can be defined as the signal pattern (S). The control unit (300) can be configured to detect the mentioned event and can change the power level of the aerosol generating device from one level to another. In an embodiment, the mentioned event can be used to change the mode of the aerosol generating device, for example from the sleep mode to the active mode.

[0088] Figure 9 illustrates an exemplary representation of a method (900) of operating an aerosol generating device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] In method (900) of operating the aerosol generating device, the pressure sensor (307) detects pressure in at least one airflow channel of the aerosol generating device at step (902). The control unit (300) receives the pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307) at step (904), determines the plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal at step (906), detects the plurality of events based on at least two of the determined plurality of pressure signal parameters at step (908) and controls, the operation of the aerosol generating device in response to the detected event from the plurality of events (910). The plurality of pressure signal parameters comprises the instantaneous pressure signal, the time duration (T) of the pressure signal, the polarity of the pressure signal (P, N) and the signal pattern (S) of the pressure signal.

[0090] In the present invention, as soon as the cartridge (100) is inserted into the body (200), the control unit (300) detects the presence of the cartridge (100 and makes the aerosol generating device ready for use. The aerosol generating device can also be activated by the user inhalation, which activates the pressure sensor (307), upon activation, the control unit (300) further activates the energy source (201). The aerosol generating device keeps running until the user stops inhalation. The user gets to know the charge status, heater on indication, and alarm events such as low battery, charge full, and heater fault through the indication LEDs (308). The user can charge the aerosol generating device using a charging port (202). The aerosol generating device shows a charging indication in the indication LEDs (308). Once the aerosol generating device is fully charged, the control unit (300) stops charging. The aerosol generating device energy source (201) can be selected from lithium-ion battery, super capacitor, sodium ion battery or any other rechargeable energy storage unit. The energy source (201) supports 20W peak power delivery.

[0091] Charging happens using the control unit (300), a battery charge controller (302), a heat cycle counter / memory (306), an input supply connector (304) and the energy source (201). Input supply (5V DC, 2A) for charging the energy source (201), is given via the input supply connector (304) (Type C) to the control unit (300). The control unit (300) charges the energy source (201) and during charging, the charge current will be set in the range of 1C to 2C. The energy source (201) is charged using constant current mode and constant voltage mode. The changeover of operating mode will happen based on the internal resistance, charge current, and charge voltage of energy source (201). The control unit (300) maintains maximum of 4.1V across the energy source (201), and the battery charge controller (302), stops charging the energy source (201) when the charge current reaches 0.5C. During charging, charge current in Coulomb per second, will be recorded by a fuel gauge (303) to control the charge time and the estimated amount of charge. Power may be supplied to the heater through the control unit (300), microcontroller (301), MOSFET load switch (309), and pogo pins (305).

[0092] In the present invention, the control unit (300) can differentiate between the positive pressure signal caused by the user blowing into the cartridge (100) and negative pressure signal caused by the user drawing air through the cartridge (100). The control unit (300) can detect the cartridge insertion, the cartridge removal, the user inhalation, the user exhalation and reinsertion of the cartridge (100). The control unit (300) is operatively connected to the pressure sensor (307). The control unit (300) is configured to activate the aerosol -generating device upon detecting negative pressure signal, thereby preventing false triggering caused by the positive pressure signal. It can also change the operation mode of the aerosol generating device based on the cartridge insertion, the cartridge removal and the reinsertion of the cartridge (100). The aerosol-generating device displays the operation mode and battery charge level through one or more LEDs (308) and provides haptic feedback to the user corresponding to changes in the operation mode.

[0093] In an embodiment, the control unit (300) can be configured to detect the plurality of events (P, N) such as the user inhalation, the cartridge insertion, the user exhalation, the cartridge removal or specific combination of the plurality of the events (P, N) occurring within the predefined time interval (Pi) and can control the operation of the aerosol generating device such as indicating the charge status, changing the power level from one level to another, changing the mode of the aerosol generating device, switching / transitioning between the low power mode (low inhalation / low set heater temperature) and the high power mode (high inhalation / high set heater temperature) and the like.

[0094] In an embodiment, the control unit (300) can be configured to detect the event such as the user inhalation and can control the operation of the aerosol generating device such as activating the aerosol generating device or heating up of the heating element.

[0095] In an embodiment, the control unit (300) can be configured to detect the event such as the cartridge insertion and can control the operation of the aerosol generating device such as activating the aerosol generating device into active mode,checking and indicating whether the aerosol generating device is active or not, checking and indicating the charge status, changing the power level, transitioning between the low power mode and the high power mode, the cartridge detection and the like.

[0096] In an embodiment, the control unit (300) can be configured to detect the event such as the user exhalation and can control the operation of the operation of the aerosol generating device such as not activating the aerosol generating device for preventing false triggering of the aerosol generating device, checking and indicating the charge status, changing the mode of the aerosol generating device, transitioning between the low power mode and the high power mode, changing the power level, and the like.

[0097] In an embodiment, the control unit (300) can be configured to detect the event such as the cartridge removal and can control the operation of the aerosol generating device such as automatically transitioning the aerosol generating device to sleep mode, indicating whether the aerosol generating device is active or not, indicating the charge status, changing the power level, transitioning between the low power mode and the high power mode and the like.

[0098] In an embodiment, the specific combination of the plurality of the events (P, N) occurring within the predefined time interval (Ti) cannot include the cartridge removal event and the user exhalation event as a last event, when the control unit (300) is configured to activate the aerosol generating device.

[0099] In another embodiment, the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device eliminating the need for extra components including switches, thereby reducing the costs. This also leads to better design and aesthetic aspects of the device.

[0100] In another embodiment, the present invention discloses an aerosol generating device eliminating the need for a wireless interface, thereby reducing the complexity and manufacturing cost of the device.

[0101] Overall, these embodiments eliminate the need for extra components and wireless interface thereby reducing the cost and complexity. The present invention sets a new standard for user interaction with the device, regulatory compliance and device functionality in the aerosol generating device market.ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION

[0102] An advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the device is provided with an option to prevent false triggering of the aerosol generating device.

[0103] Another advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the aerosol generating device is provided with an option for cartridge detection.

[0104] Another advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the aerosol generating device is provided with an option for reducing the time between starting of inhalation and heating as well as optimizing the end of inhalation time.

[0105] Another advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the aerosol generating device is provided with an option for dynamic adjustment of power level.

[0106] Another advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the device is provided with an option for dynamic adjustment of operating temperature.

[0107] Another advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the aerosol generating device is provided with an option for change of operating mode.

[0108] Another advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the aerosol generating device is provided with an option for checking of battery charge level.

[0109] Another advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the aerosol generating device is provided with a cost- efficient design that eliminates the need for external switches, wireless interface and other complex internal components, thereby reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0110] Another advantage of the aerosol generating device as disclosed in the present invention is that the aerosol generating device uses existing components and avoids the need for additional components.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An aerosol generating device comprising: a pressure sensor (307) configured to detect pressure in at least one airflow channel of the aerosol generating device; and a control unit (300) operatively connected to the pressure sensor (307) and configured to: receive a pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307); determine a plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal; detect a plurality of events based on at least two of the determined plurality of pressure signal parameters; and control operation of the aerosol generating device in response to a detected event from the plurality of events, wherein the plurality of pressure signal parameters comprises instantaneous pressure signal, a time duration (T) of the pressure signal, a polarity of the pressure signal (P, N) and a signal pattern (S) of the pressure signal.

2. The aerosol generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a body (200) and a cartridge (100), wherein the body (200) is configured to hold the cartridge (100).

3. The aerosol generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of events comprises user inhalation, inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200) by a user, removing the cartridge (100) from the body (200) by the user and user exhalation.

4. The aerosol generating device as claimed in claim 1, determining the plurality of pressure signal parameters comprise determining whether the polarity of the pressure signal is a positive pressure signal (P) or a negative pressure signal (N), and wherein the positive pressure signal (P) is definedas the pressure signal above ambient pressure (PA) and the negative pressure signal (N) is defined as the pressure signal below the ambient pressure (PA).

5. The aerosol generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein determining the plurality of pressure signal parameters comprise determining the time duration (T) of the pressure signal, wherein the time duration (T) is a duration of time determined based on a difference of a first time (Ti) and a second time (T2), wherein the first time (Ti) is time from when the instantaneous pressure signal starts from the ambient pressure (PA) and the second time (T2) is time when the instantaneous pressure signal reaches back to the ambient pressure (PA).

6. The aerosol generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the signal pattern (S) is determined based on one or more events occurring within a predefined time interval (Ti).

7. The aerosol generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the instantaneous pressure signal depends on at least one of each event, the geometry of the aerosol generating device, construction of the aerosol generating device and user behavior for each event.

8. The aerosol generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (300) is further configured to: activate the aerosol generating device based on inhalation detection event; and prevent unintended activation of the aerosol generating device based on exhalation detection event.

9. The aerosol-generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (300) is configured to: continuously monitor the detected event; and automatically transition the aerosol generating device to a sleep mode when the cartridge (100) is removed and when no event is detected within a predefined time duration (T).

10. The aerosol-generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (300) is further configured to: continuously monitor the detected event; and activate the aerosol generating device into active mode when the cartridge (100) is inserted.

11. The aerosol-generating device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (300) is further configured to: periodically recalibrate a pressure sensor output to account for changes in the ambient pressure (PA) or temperature, ensuring accurate differentiation between the positive pressure signal and the negative pressure signal.

12. A method of operating an aerosol-generating device, the method comprising: detecting pressure, by a pressure sensor (307), in at least one airflow channel of the aerosol generating device; receiving, by a control unit (300), a pressure signal from the pressure sensor (307); determining, by the control unit (300), a plurality of pressure signal parameters from the received pressure signal; detecting, by the control unit (300), a plurality of events based on at least two of the determined plurality of pressure signal parameters; and controlling operation of the aerosol generating device, by the control unit (300), in response to a detected event from the plurality of events, wherein the control unit (300) is operatively connected to the pressure sensor (307) and wherein the plurality of pressure signal parameters comprises instantaneous pressure signal, a time duration (T) of the pressure signal, a polarity of the pressure signal (P, N) and a signal pattern (S) of the pressure signal.

13. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a body (200) and a cartridge (100), wherein the body (200) is configured to hold the cartridge (100).

14. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the plurality of events comprises user inhalation, inserting the cartridge (100) into the body (200) by a user, removing the cartridge (100) from the body (200) by the user and user exhalation.

15. The method as claimed in claim 12, determining the plurality of pressure signal parameters comprise determining whether the polarity of the pressure signal is a positive pressure signal (P) or a negative pressure signal (N), and wherein the positive pressure signal (P) is defined as the pressure signal above ambient pressure (PA) and the negative pressure signal (N) is defined as the pressure signal below the ambient pressure (PA).

16. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein determining the plurality of pressure signal parameters comprise determining the time duration (T) of the pressure signal, wherein the time duration (T) is a duration of time determined based on a difference of a first time (Ti) and a second time (T2), wherein the first time (Ti) is time from when the instantaneous pressure signal starts from the ambient pressure (PA) and the second time (T2) is time when the instantaneous pressure signal reaches back to the ambient pressure (PA).

17. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the signal pattern (S) is determined based on one or more events occurring within a predefined time interval (Ti).

18. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the instantaneous pressure signal depends on at least one of each event, the geometry of the aerosol generating device, construction of the aerosol generating device and user behavior for each event.

19. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the method further comprises activating the aerosol generating device based on inhalation detection event and preventing unintended activation of the aerosol generating device based on exhalation detection event.

20. The method as claimed in claim 12, further comprising: monitoring the detected event; and automatically transitioning the aerosol generating device to a sleep mode when the cartridge (100) is removed and when no event is detected within a predefined time duration (T).

21. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the method comprising continuously monitoring the event and activating the aerosol generating device into active mode when the cartridge (100) is inserted.

22. The method as claimed in claim 12, further comprising: recalibrating a pressure sensor output periodically to account for changes in the ambient pressure (PA) or temperature, ensuring accurate differentiation between the positive pressure signal and the negative pressure signal.

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