Locking system, aerosol generation device, and method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a locking system (200) for an aerosol generation device (100), the locking system comprising: a proximity sensor (210); an aerosol generation device component (220) configured to be sensed by the proximity sensor; and a processor (230) configured to: change the lock state of the aerosol generation device based on an output from the proximity sensor due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor. The present disclosure further relates to an aerosol generation device (100), and a related method.

Description

[0001] LOCKING SYSTEM, AEROSOL GENERATION DEVICE, AND METHOD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a locking system, in particular to a locking system for an aerosol generation device. The present disclosure further relates to an aerosol generation device comprising a locking system. The present disclosure further relates to a method, in particular to a method of controlling a lock state of an aerosol generation device.

[0003] Conventional aerosol generation devices incorporate locking systems to prevent undesired activation or unauthorised use of the aerosol generation device. Undesired activation may include the aerosol generation device being inadvertently made operational. Unauthorised use may include the aerosol generation device being used by a non-permitted user, such as an underage user. However, conventional approaches may be overly straightforward, intuitive, or accidentally replicable.

[0004] In one example of a conventional locking system, unlocking the device may be achieved by a series of repeated button presses. In a separate example of a conventional locking system, unlocking the device may be achieved by performing a series of repeated inhalation actions using the device. It will be appreciated that such approaches do not provide a high level of security or protection to prevent undesired activation or unauthorised use, and may lead to inadvertent or undesired unlocking and operation of the device.

[0005] It is desired to provide an improved locking system to prevent undesired activation, or unauthorised use, of an aerosol generation device. It may be desired to increase the complexity of unlocking or achieving operation of an aerosol generation device, and also to achieve this without undue burden on an authorised user. Additionally, or alternatively, it is desired to provide at least an alternative solution to locking and unlocking an aerosol generation device and / or to solve one or more problems referenced herein or discussed elsewhere.

[0006] Summary According to the present disclosure there is provided a locking system, an aerosol generation device, and a method, including the features as set out in the claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect, there is provided a locking system for an aerosol generation device, the locking system comprising: a proximity sensor; an aerosol generation device component configured to be sensed by the proximity sensor; and a processor configured to: change the lock state of the aerosol generation device based on an output from the proximity sensor due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor.

[0008] Advantageously, such a construction provides a higher level of security and / or protection to prevent undesired activation or unauthorised use. An improved locking system is provided, which prevents undesired activation, or unauthorised use, of the aerosol generation device. Complexity of unlocking or achieving operation of the device is increased, as it is unintuitive to use an aerosol generation device component, and interaction thereof with a proximity sensor, to change a lock state of the aerosol generation device. Despite this, an authorised user is not faced with undue burden to change the lock state of the device.

[0009] In one example, the processor is configured to: monitor an output from the proximity sensor; detect a perturbation in the output due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor; and change the lock state of the aerosol generation device.

[0010] In this way, perturbation in proximity sensor output can be used to trigger, initiate, or cause a change in the lock state of the aerosol generation device. The perturbation may provide an improved indication of an attempt to operate the device by an authorised user.

[0011] In one example, the component is configured to be sensed by the proximity sensor by electrically and / or magnetically interacting therewith.

[0012] In this way, a more robust manner of interaction to change a lock state is provided. Improvements in security are realised, in particular in contrast with conventional button presses or inhalation actions (i.e. , puffs). In one example, the proximity sensor is configured to be provided in the aerosol generation device.

[0013] In this way, the lock state can be changed without requiring additional equipment. The lock state can thereby be controlled by the authorised user without undue burden.

[0014] In one example, the proximity sensor is configured to be provided in an accessory which is separate to, or separatable from, the aerosol generation device.

[0015] In this way, space saving advantages in the aerosol generation device can be realised. Furthermore, such a construction may be particularly advantageous in a heated tobacco system, which typically incorporates a charging case.

[0016] In one example, the accessory is a case for housing the aerosol generation device. The case may be configured to provide charging power to the aerosol generation device when housed therein.

[0017] In this way, the aerosol generation device and accessory can be provided as a single unit, ensuring that all components are available to the authorised user for changing the lock state.

[0018] In one example, interaction of the component with the proximity sensor comprises relative movement of the component and the proximity sensor.

[0019] In this way, the lock state can be changed by the authorised user by performing the necessary relative movement. However, this is less intuitive to an unauthorised user.

[0020] In one example, the component is configured to be removably provided at the aerosol generation device such that the component can be removed from connection therewith to facilitate relative movement of the component and the proximity sensor.

[0021] In this way, the component and aerosol generation device can, at a time, be provided as a single unit, ensuring that all components are available to the authorised user for changing the lock state. Furthermore, this is less intuitive approach to changing the lock state for an unauthorised user. In one example, the proximity sensor comprises a Hall effect sensor, and wherein the aerosol generation device component comprises a metallic material. The aerosol generation device component may comprise a magnetic (i.e., ferrous) material. The proximity sensor may comprise a magnet. In some examples, the magnet is a permanent magnet. In some examples, the proximity sensor may comprise a magnet of a kind other than a permanent magnet, such as for example, an electromagnet.

[0022] In this way, the interaction of the component with the proximity sensor can provide an output which is usable in changing the lock state.

[0023] In one example, the component is an aerosol generation device consumable.

[0024] In this way, a component of the aerosol generation device can itself be used to change the lock state, which does not increase burden on the authorised user to change the lock state.

[0025] In one example, the component is a cartomizer.

[0026] In one example, the processor is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device thereby to: allow electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; cause electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generation device; prevent provision of electrical power to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; terminate provision of electrical power to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; and / or prevent air from being drawn through the aerosol generation device.

[0027] Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device to allow electrical power to be provided to the one or more heater components, the user is subsequently able to commence a vaping session at a desired time.

[0028] Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device to cause electrical power to be provided to the one or more heater components, the vaping session is commenced, facilitating usage of the device shortly after changing the lock state. Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device to allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generation device, usage of the device is facilitated (e.g., inhalation of aerosol) following changing the lock state.

[0029] Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device to prevent provision of electrical power to the one or more heater components, electrical power supply is prevented, inhibiting usage of the device until the lock state is subsequently changed.

[0030] Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device to terminate provision of electrical power to the heater, aerosol generation may be immediately terminated.

[0031] Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device to prevent air from being drawn through the aerosol generation device, usage of the device (e.g., inhalation of aerosol) is prevented following changing the lock state.

[0032] In one example, the processor is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device from a locked state to an unlocked state: for a predetermined period of time; for the duration of a vaping session; or until the lock state is changed based on an output from the proximity sensor due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor.

[0033] Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device from a locked state to an unlocked state for a predetermined period of time, if the device is left unmonitored, after the predetermined period of time the device will be locked.

[0034] Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device from a locked state to an unlocked state for the duration of a vaping session, the device may be used by an authorised user for a vaping session, but subsequent use prevented until the lock state is changed again to the unlocked state. Advantageously, by the processor being configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device from a locked state to an unlocked state until the lock state is changed based on an output from the proximity sensor due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor, the user is able to command the locking of the device. Security is thereby improved.

[0035] According to a second aspect, there is provided an aerosol generation device comprising the locking system according to the first aspect.

[0036] The aerosol generation device according to the second aspect may incorporate any or all of the features of the aerosol generation device power system according to the first aspect, as desired or as appropriate.

[0037] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of controlling a lock state of an aerosol generation device, the method comprising: changing the lock state based on an output from a proximity sensor due to interaction of an aerosol generation device component with the proximity sensor.

[0038] The method according to the third aspect may incorporate any or all of the features of the locking system according to the first aspect and / or any or all of the features of the aerosol generation device according to the second aspect, as desired or as appropriate.

[0039] In one example, the method comprises changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device thereby to: allow electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; cause electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generation device; prevent provision of electrical power to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; terminate provision of electrical power to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; and / or prevent air from being drawn through the aerosol generation device.

[0040] In one example, the method comprises changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device from a locked state to an unlocked state: for a predetermined period of time; for the duration of a vaping session; or until the lock state is changed based on an output from the proximity sensor due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor.

[0041] Further advantages, objectives and features of the present invention will be described, by way of example only, in the following description with reference to the figures. In the figures, like components in different embodiments can exhibit the same reference symbols.

[0042] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0043] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 shows an example of an aerosol generation device;

[0045] Figure 2 shows a locking system;

[0046] Figure 3 shows interaction of an aerosol generation device component with a proximity sensor;

[0047] Figure 4 shows interaction of an aerosol generation device component with a proximity sensor;

[0048] Figure 5 shows a plot of proximity sensor output;

[0049] Figure 6 shows an aerosol generation device; and

[0050] Figure 7 shows a schematic method.

[0051] Detailed Description

[0052] As used herein, the term “aerosol precursor material”, “vapour precursor material” or “vaporizable material” are used synonymously and may refer to a material and / or composition, which may for example comprise nicotine or tobacco and a vaporising agent. The aerosol precursor material is configured to release an aerosol when heated or otherwise mechanically stimulated (such as by vibrations). Tobacco may take the form of various materials such as shredded tobacco, granulated tobacco, tobacco leaf and / or reconstituted tobacco. Nicotine may be in the form of nicotine salts. Suitable vaporising agents include: a polyol such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols like propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; a non-polyol such as monohydric alcohols, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerin or vegetable glycerin. In some examples, the aerosol precursor material is substantially a liquid or a gel that holds or comprises one or more solid particles, such as tobacco particles extracted from tobacco materials or suspended in a solution or gel.

[0053] An aerosol generation device is configured to aerosolise an aerosol precursor material without combustion in order to facilitate delivery of an aerosol to a user. Furthermore, and as is common in the technical field, the terms “vapour” and “aerosol”, and related terms such as “vaporize”, “volatilize” and “aerosolise”, may generally be used interchangeably.

[0054] As used herein, the term “aerosol generation device” is synonymous with “aerosol generating device” or “device” and may include a device configured to heat an aerosol precursor material and deliver an aerosol to a user, typically without combusting the aerosol precursor material. The device may be portable. “Portable” may refer to the device being for use when held by a user. The device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol, which can be controlled by a user input.

[0055] As used herein, the term “aerosol” may include a suspension of vaporizable material as one or more of: solid particles; liquid droplets; gas. Said suspension may be in a gas including air. Aerosol herein may generally refer to / include a vapour. Aerosol may include one or more components of the vaporizable material.

[0056] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation device 100. The aerosol generation device 100 is suitable for receiving a consumable 102 therein. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 may include a chamber 104 in which the consumable 102 is received.

[0057] The invention is not limited to the specific aerosol generation device 100 or consumable 102 described herein. That is, the description of the aerosol generation device 100 and consumable 102 is provided for illustrative purposes only. The skilled person will appreciate that alternative constructions of aerosol generation devices and consumables will be compatible with the present invention.

[0058] A consumable 102 comprises aerosol precursor material, as described above.

[0059] The aerosol generation device 100 may comprise one or more heater components 106 configured to provide heat to the consumable 102, in use.

[0060] In one example, the consumable 102 contains a liquid and the one or more heater components comprise a heating element, such as a coil, a ceramic heater, a flat resistive heater, a mesh heater, a MEMS heater, or the like, configured to aerosolise the liquid for inhalation. A liquid delivery element or mechanism, such as a porous material, a capillary system, and / or valve, may transfer the liquid to the heating element, in use. In some examples, the aerosolised liquid may pass through a solid substrate within the aerosol generation device 100. In other examples, the consumable 102 may comprise a solid aerosol substrate.

[0061] In one example, the aerosol generation device 100 comprises a nebulizing engine, such as a vibrating mesh, to generate an aerosol from a liquid with or without heating thereof.

[0062] The aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a mouthpiece 116 through which a user may draw on the aerosol generation device 100 to inhale generated aerosol. The mouthpiece 116 includes a vent or channel 118 that may be connected to a region close to the consumable article 102 for passage of any generated aerosol from the consumable article 102, during use. The generated aerosol may pass from the aerosol precursor material of the consumable article 102, through the channel 118 along the path 119.

[0063] For example, the channel 118 may extend between an opening in the mouthpiece 116 and the chamber 104 in which the consumable article 102 is at least partially receivable. The mouthpiece 116 is arranged such it may be received in a user’s mouth in use. In other examples, a mouthpiece 116 is not required and a portion of the consumable article 102 may protrude from the aerosol generation device 100. In this example, the protruding portion of the consumable article 102 may work as the mouthpiece. In some other examples, the protruding portion of the consumable article 102 may be received in the channel 118 of the mouthpiece 116. The aerosol generation device 100 may comprise an activation input sensor 120. The activation input sensor 120 may be a button, a touchpad, or the like for sensing a user’s input, such as a tap or swipe. In other examples, the activation input sensor 120 comprises a consumable sensor configured to detect if a consumable 102 has been inserted into the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the input sensor 120 may comprise an authenticity detector that is configured to detect if an authentic consumable 102 has been inserted into the aerosol generation device 100. Additionally, or alternatively, the user input may also comprise an inhalation action by a user. User input via the activation input sensor 120 may initiate the vaping session, for example may initiate a heat-up mode. As described in greater detail below, initiation of the vaping session may depend on a lock state of the aerosol generation device 100. A vaping session may otherwise be referred to as an aerosolisation session.

[0064] The aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a puff sensor 122 (otherwise known as an inhalation sensor). The puff sensor 122 is configured to detect an inhalation action (or puff) by a user on the aerosol generation device 100. In one example, the puff sensor 122 comprises a microphone or a flow sensor configured to sense an airflow within the chamber 104 and / or an airflow channel extending from an opening in the device housing to the chamber 104 and through the mouthpiece 116 to an inhalation outlet thereof, the airflow being associated with a user’s inhalation action. In other examples, the puff sensor 122 is configured to detect a change in pressure indicative of a beginning of an inhalation action on the aerosol generation device by the user. In this case, the puff sensor 122 may be located anywhere on the aerosol device 100 in which there would be a change in pressure due to an inhalation action of the user. In one example, the puff sensor 122 is located in the channel 118 between the chamber 104 and the mouthpiece 116 of the aerosol generation device 100. The puff sensor 122 may also detect the end of an inhalation action by the user. For example, the puff sensor 122 may be configured to detect a further change in pressure due to the end of an inhalation action of a user.

[0065] The aerosol generation device 100 may include one or more temperature sensors 124 configured to directly or indirectly measure the temperature of the consumable 102 in the aerosol generation device 100. The one or more temperature sensors 124 may comprise a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple or thermistor, configured to be located within or adjacent to the consumable 102 when it is received in the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the one or more temperature sensors 124 may be located within the chamber 104 of the aerosol generation device 100. In other examples, the heater component 106 itself may operate as a temperature sensor if the heater 106 has PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) or NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) characteristic, or may indirectly provide a temperature based on the heater electrical resistance measurement as is well understood in the art.

[0066] The aerosol generation device 100 may include an aerosol generation device power system 400, which may be referred to as the “power system 400”.

[0067] In overview, the power system 400 may comprise energy units, such as batteries. The energy units may be comprised in a power supply. The power supply may provide the aerosol generation device 100 with electrical energy providing a voltage in the range of 3 V and 4.2 V. In a preferred embodiment the voltage source is one or more lithium-ion batteries delivering a voltage of 3.7 V. Such a voltage source is particularly advantageous for a modern aerosol generation device in view of rechargeability, high energy density and large capacity. The energy units may provide power for operation of the aerosol generation device 100, for example the necessary power to generate aerosol. In an example, the energy units may provide power to the one or more heater components 106.

[0068] The power system 400 may further comprise a controller 430. In summary, the controller 430 may be configured to receive data relating to various sensors / inputs (such as the activation input sensor 120, puff sensor 122 and / or temperature sensor 124) of the aerosol generation device 100. The controller 430 may be for electronic management of the aerosol generation device 100. The controller 430 may include a PCB or the like (not shown). The controller 430 may further be configured to control the one or more heater components 106.

[0069] The aerosol generation device 100 may further comprise a body or housing 126. The body 126 may be configured to connect to the consumable article 102. Alternatively, the body 126 may be configured to receive or engage with the consumable article 102. The body 126 may be formed of a non-ferrous material. For example, the body 126 may be formed of a non-ferrous metal (e.g., aluminium), or from plastic. Referring to Figure 2, a locking system 200 for an aerosol generation device 100 is shown.

[0070] The locking system 200 may be for controlling a lock state of the aerosol generation device 100. The locking system may be for controlling a lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 to enable or disable an operation or a function of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0071] The locking system 200 comprises a proximity sensor 210 and an aerosol generation device component 220. The aerosol generation device component 220 is configured to be sensed by the proximity sensor 210. The locking system 200 further comprises a processor 230. The processor 230 is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 based on an output from the proximity sensor 210 due to interaction of the aerosol generation device component 220 with the proximity sensor 210.

[0072] The proximity sensor 210 is a sensor able to detect the presence of the aerosol generation device component 220. Physical contact of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210 is not necessary in order to detect presence of the component 220. The proximity sensor 210 may be configured to sense instances of the component 220 being brought, or moved, within a threshold distance of the proximity sensor 210. The proximity sensor 210 may be any type of proximity sensor suitable for the present application, as will be understood by the skilled person from the description herein. The proximity sensor 210 may be a sensor configured to sense the component 220 by an electrical or magnetic interaction between the component 220 and the proximity sensor 210. In a particularly advantageous example, the proximity sensor 210 is a Hall effect sensor.

[0073] The processor 230 and the controller 430 may be the same component, or may be separate components. That is, a single processor (e.g., processor 230) may be provided and configured, or programmed, to perform all functions and operations of the processor 230 and controller 430.

[0074] The aerosol generation device component 220 may be any suitable component of the aerosol generation device 100, as will be appreciated from the description herein. Advantageously, using the aerosol generation device component 220 in the aforementioned manner is non-intuitive to unauthorised or unfamiliar persons attempting to use the aerosol generation device 100. It will be appreciated that use of an aerosol generation device component 220 is distinct from, e.g., using a hand to perform a command gesture for controlling an aerosol generation device, perform button presses, or performing inhalation actions. The component 220 may be configured, or may have a form such that, it is configured to be sensed by the proximity sensor 210 by electrically and / or magnetically interacting therewith.

[0075] The lock state may be a flag, condition, or parameter stored in a memory connected to the processor 230. Nevertheless, the aerosol generation device 100 may be referred to as being “in a lock state”.

[0076] Changing the lock state may involve changing the lock state from a first lock state to a second lock state. The first lock state may be a “locked” state, and the second lock state may be an “unlocked” state.

[0077] It will be appreciated that the present invention is distinct from using proximity detection to detect or monitor presence of an aerosol generation device component, for example a consumable. That is, as described herein, use of an aerosol generation device component 220 in changing of the lock state is distinct from simply ensuring presence of (e.g., insertion of) a consumable before commencing operation. Numerous advantages are associated with using the aerosol generation device component 220 in changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100, as will be appreciated from the description herein.

[0078] As introduced above, the processor 230 is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0079] The aerosol generation device 100 in the first lock state may be configured, controlled, or be operable, in one or more of the following ways.

[0080] The aerosol generation device 100 in the first lock state may be prevented from electrical power being provided to the one or more heater components 106. That is, with the aerosol generation device 100 in the first lock state, electrical power is prevented from being provided from the power system 400 (or a part thereof) to the one or more heater components 106. In this way, the aerosol generation device is in a state which does not allow for provision (e.g., selective provision, by further control) of electrical power to the one or more heater components 106. For example, an activation input at the activation input sensor 120 whilst the aerosol generation device 100 is in the first lock state would not result in provision of electrical power.

[0081] The aerosol generation device 100 in the first lock state may terminate provision of electrical power to one or more heater components 106. That is, the lock state being changed to the first lock state may result in termination of provision of electrical power from the power system 400 (or a part thereof) to the one or more heater components 106. In this way, aerosol generation can be terminated.

[0082] The aerosol generation device 100 in the first lock state may prevent air being drawn through the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the first lock state may prevent air being drawn through a part of the aerosol generation device 100, for example through the mouthpiece 116. Airflow may be prevented by closure of a valve, or other suitable blocking mechanism.

[0083] The aerosol generation device 100 in the second lock state may be configured, controlled, or be operable, in one or more of the following ways.

[0084] The aerosol generation device 100 in the second lock state may be allowed to provide electrical power to the one or more heater components 106. That is, with the aerosol generation device 100 in the second lock state, electrical power is allowed to be provided from the power system 400 (or a part thereof) to the one or more heater components 106. In this way, the aerosol generation device is in a state which allows for provision (e.g., selective provision, by further control) of electrical power to the one or more heater components 106. For example, an activation input at the activation input sensor 120 whilst the aerosol generation device 100 is in the second lock state would result in provision of electrical power.

[0085] The aerosol generation device 100 in the second lock state may cause provision of electrical power to one or more heater components 106. That is, the lock state being changed to the second lock state may result in the causation of, or commencement of, provision of electrical power from the power system 400 (or a part thereof) to the one or more heater components 106. In this way, aerosol generation can be initiated. The aerosol generation device 100 in the second lock state may allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the second lock state may allow air to be drawn through a part of the aerosol generation device 100, for example through the mouthpiece 116. Airflow may be allowed by opening of a valve, or other suitable blocking mechanism.

[0086] Changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 may configure, control, or operate the device 100 in one or more of the following ways.

[0087] Changing the lock state from the first lock state to the second lock state may allow provision of electrical power to one or more heater components 106, as described above. That is, upon changing the lock state, electrical power may then be allowed to be provided to one or more heater components 106. For avoidance of doubt, this does not necessarily mean that electrical power is provided - rather, the device 100 is configured such that electrical power may be provided if commanded, or instructed, possibly by an appropriate activation input at the activation input sensor 120.

[0088] Changing the lock state from the first lock state to the second lock state may cause electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components 106, as described above. That is, upon changing the lock state, electrical power supply to the one or more heater components 106 may commence. In an example, changing the lock state from the first lock state to the second lock state may initiate a heat-up phase, or other phase, of a vaping session. The changing of the lock state from the first lock state to the second lock state may itself be used as an activation input.

[0089] Changing the lock state from the first lock state to the second lock state may allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generation device 100. For example, a valve, or other blocking mechanism, may be opened thereby allowing airflow to be caused through the aerosol generation device 100.

[0090] Changing the lock state from the second lock state to the first lock state may prevent provision of electrical power to one or more heater components 106 of the aerosol generation device 100. That is, upon changing the lock state, electrical power may be prevented from being provided to one or more heater components 106. For avoidance of doubt, this does not necessarily mean that electrical power is being provided immediately prior to the changing of the lock state - rather, whereas in the first lock state it may be possible for electrical power to be provided by appropriate control of the device, after the change to the second lock state, electrical power supply is prevented.

[0091] Changing the lock state from the second lock state to the first lock state may terminate provision of electrical power to one or more heater components 106. That is, upon changing the lock state, electrical power may be terminated to one or more heater components 106. In this way, aerosol generation may be terminated.

[0092] Changing the lock state from the second lock state to the first lock state may prevent air from being drawn through the aerosol generation device 100. Changing the lock state may result in a valve, or other suitable blocking mechanism, being closed.

[0093] The processor 230 is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 from the first lock state (i.e., the locked state) to the second lock state (i.e. , the unlocked state) in one or more of the following ways.

[0094] The processor 230 is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 from the first lock state (i.e., the locked state) to the second lock state (i.e., the unlocked state) temporarily. That is, the aerosol generation device 100 may be configured in the unlocked state temporarily.

[0095] In one example, the processor 230 is configured to change the lock state from the first lock state to the second lock state for a predetermined period of time. That is, the processor 230 controls the aerosol generation device 100 to configure the device 100 in the unlocked state for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time may be a fixed or variable period of time, and may be stored in the memory. The predetermined period of time may be determined based on usage data or profile of the user, capacity of energy units, level of a consumable, or other factor. After the predetermined period of time, the processor 230 may change the lock state back to the first lock state. That is, after the predetermined period of time, the device 100 may then be locked by a “time out”. Advantageously, if the device 100 is left unmonitored, after the predetermined period of time the lock state will be changed back to the locked state.

[0096] In another example, the processor 230 is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 from the first lock state (i.e., the locked state) to the second lock state (i.e., the unlocked state) for the duration of a vaping session. That is, the aerosol generation device 100 may be maintained in the unlocked state for the duration of a vaping session, which may include a heat-up phase and a session phase.

[0097] In another example, the processor 230 is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 from the first lock state (i.e., the locked state) to the second lock state (i.e., the unlocked state) until the lock state is changed based on an output from the proximity sensor 210 due to interaction of the aerosol generation device component 220 with the proximity sensor 210. This will be described in further detail below.

[0098] In another example, the processor 230 is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 from the second lock state (i.e., the unlocked state) to the first lock state (i.e., the locked state) after a period of time has elapsed following last use. In this way, unwanted use of the aerosol generation device 100 is prevented in an automated and simple way, as failure of the user to interact with the device 100 will result in the device 100 being locked after a certain time period. This time period may be adjustable, and may be set by the user.

[0099] Operation of the proximity sensor 210, interaction of the aerosol generation device component 220 therewith, and further details of the processor 230, will now be described in greater detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0100] Referring to Figure 3, a first example of a locking system 200 is shown.

[0101] The proximity sensor 210 is configured to be provided in the aerosol generation device 100. As shown, the proximity sensor 210 is provided in the aerosol generation device 100. In this example, the proximity sensor 210 comprises a Hall effect sensor. The proximity sensor 210 may further comprise a magnet (not shown) proximal to the Hall effect sensor. In some examples, the magnet proximal to the Hall effect sensor in the proximity sensor 210 may be a permanent magnet. In some examples, the proximity sensor 210 may comprise another kind of magnet proximal to the Hall effect sensor, for example, an electromagnet, a temporary / soft magnet, etc. A baseline signal from the Hall effect sensor may thereby be provided, from which perturbations in the output of the proximity sensor 210 may be detected. In the first example, the aerosol generation device component 220 is configured to be removably provided at the aerosol generation device 100 such that the component can be removed from connection therewith to facilitate relative movement of the component 220 and the proximity sensor 210. In this example, the aerosol generation device component 220 comprises a metallic material, for interacting with the Hall effect sensor.

[0102] In the first example, as illustrated in Figure 3, the component 220 is a consumable (e.g., consumable 102). The consumable may be a cartomizer.

[0103] In the first example, interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210 is caused by producing relative movement of the component 220 and the proximity sensor 210. The component 220 may be brought within a threshold distance of the proximity sensor 210.

[0104] Changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device using the first example of the locking system 200 will now be described.

[0105] The component 220 is removed from connection with the aerosol generation device 100. Removal of the component 220 from connection with the aerosol generation device 100 may be detected by the processor 230. Based on detecting removal of the component, the processor 230 will expect either reinsertion of a replacement component (e.g., a new consumable 102), or an interaction used to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0106] The component 220 is moved relative to the proximity sensor 210. For example, the component 220 may be moved across a region of the aerosol generation device 100 where the proximity sensor 210 is located or provided. The proximity sensor 210 may be located or provided substantially at or toward the middle of the body 126 of the device 100, and the component 220 may be moved across the or toward the middle of the body 126 (e.g., as indicated by the arrows 310 in Figure 3). The component 220 may be moved toward the proximity sensor 210 to within a threshold distance from the proximity sensor 210, and optionally away from the proximity sensor 210 to outside of the threshold distance from the proximity sensor 210. As mentioned above, the component 220 comprises a metallic material. Moving the component 220 relative to the proximity sensor 210 thereby causes a change, or perturbation, in the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet (or the electromagnet and the like, as the case may be). That is, the magnetic field strength is perturbed. A change, or perturbation, in the output of the proximity sensor 210 thereby results.

[0107] The processor 230 is configured to monitor the output from the proximity sensor 210. The processor 230 is configured to detect a perturbation in the output due to interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210. That is, in the present example, the processor 230 monitors the output signal from the proximity sensor 210 and detects the change in the output from the proximity sensor 210 when the component 220 is moved to within the threshold distance.

[0108] The processor 230 may then control the aerosol generation device 100 based on the perturbation, or profile of perturbation, in the output of the proximity sensor 210. In this example, the processor 230 changes the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100. The processor 230 may change the lock state when a voltage increase (indicating an increase in magnetic field strength) is detected.

[0109] In an example, the processor 230 may change the lock state when a single voltage increase event, or occurrence, is detected. In another example, the processor 230 may change the lock state when a pattern of voltage increase events are detected. In this way, security may be improved, by requiring a particular movement, or gesture, of movement of the component 220 relative to the proximity sensor 210. Example movements may include two or three closely-spaced voltage increase events (indicating two or three “passes” of the component 220 across the proximity sensor 210), or may include a voltage increase event exceeding a threshold duration (indicating holding of the component 220 over the proximity sensor 210 for a time period exceeding a threshold).

[0110] Referring to Figure 4, a second example of a locking system 200 is shown.

[0111] The proximity sensor 210 is configured to be provided in an accessory 450. The accessory 450 is separate to, or is separatable from, the aerosol generation device 100.

[0112] In this example, the accessory 450 is a case 450 for housing the aerosol generation device 100. The case 450 may provide charging functionality. In an alternative example, the accessory 450 may be a dongle, charger, or any other hardware component associated with the aerosol generation device 100. Advantageously, by the second example, the proximity sensor 210 need not be included in the aerosol generation device 100, which is advantageous in space saving and enabling construction of a compact and / or lightweight device 100. Furthermore, such a construction is advantageous in a heated tobacco system implementation.

[0113] In this example, the proximity sensor 210 comprises a Hall effect sensor. The proximity sensor 210 may further comprise a permanent magnet or an electromagnet (not shown) proximal to the Hall effect sensor. A baseline signal from the Hall effect sensor may thereby be provided, from which perturbations in the output of the proximity sensor 210 may be detected.

[0114] The accessory 450 may further comprise a communicator unit 452. The communicator unit 452 is for communicating with the processor 230 of the aerosol generation device 100. The communicator unit 452 may provide the output of the proximity sensor 210 to the processor 230, or may provide an indication of an interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210 to the processor 230. The processor 230 may be configured to receive information from the communicator unit 452. The communicator unit 452 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with the processor 230. The processor 230 may be configured to receive (e.g., wirelessly) signals, or information, from the communicator unit 452. In respect of this, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a receiver 454 configured to receive signals, or information from the communicator unit 452.

[0115] In this example, the aerosol generation device component 220 is a part, or whole, of the aerosol generation device 100. The component 220 may be configured to be removably provided at the aerosol generation device 100 such that the component can be removed from connection therewith to facilitate relative movement of the component 220 and the proximity sensor 210. In this example, the aerosol generation device component 220 comprises a metallic material, for interacting with the Hall effect sensor. Additionally, or alternatively, the component 220 may not be removably provided at the aerosol generation device 100. The component 220 may be, for example, a part of the body 126 of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0116] In the second example, the component 220 may be any part of the aerosol generation device 100. The component 220 may be a removable component 220, such as a consumable (e.g., consumable 102). The consumable may be a cartomizer. Additionally, or alternatively, the component 220 may be an integral (e.g., non- removably) component 220, such as a part of the body 126. In this example, the aerosol generation device component 220 comprises a metallic material, for interacting with the Hall effect sensor.

[0117] In the second example, interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210 is caused by producing relative movement of the component 220 and the proximity sensor 210. The component 220 may be brought within a threshold distance of the proximity sensor 210.

[0118] Changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device using the second example of the locking system 200 will now be described.

[0119] In one instance, the component 220 may be removed from connection with the aerosol generation device 100. However, it will be appreciated that as the proximity sensor 210 is provided in the separate accessory 450, it may not be necessary to remove the component from connection with device 100.

[0120] The component 220 is moved relative to the proximity sensor 210. In the second example, this may involve moving the whole aerosol generation device 100 relative to the proximity sensor 210, or relative to the accessory 450 (e.g., as indicated by the arrows 410 in Figure 4). For example, the component 220 may be moved across a region of the accessory 450 where the proximity sensor 210 is located or provided. The component 220 may be moved toward the proximity sensor 210 to within a threshold distance from the proximity sensor 210, and optionally away from the proximity sensor 210 to outside of the threshold distance from the proximity sensor 210. As mentioned above, the component 220 comprises a metallic material. Moving the component 220 in this way thereby causes a change, or perturbation, in the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet (or electromagnet, etc., as the case may be). That is, the magnetic field strength is perturbed. A change, or perturbation, in the output of the proximity sensor 210 thereby results.

[0121] The processor 230 is configured to monitor the output from the proximity sensor 210. The processor 230 is configured to detect a perturbation in the output due to interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210. That is, in the present example, the processor 230 monitors the output signal from the proximity sensor 210 and detects the change in the output from the proximity sensor 210 when the component 220 is moved to within the threshold distance.

[0122] The processor 230 may then control the aerosol generation device 100 based on the perturbation, or profile of perturbation, in the output of the proximity sensor 210. In this example, the processor 230 changes the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100. The processor 230 may change the lock state when a voltage increase (indicating an increase in magnetic field strength) is detected.

[0123] In an example, the processor 230 may change the lock state when a single voltage increase event, or occurrence, is detected. In another example, the processor 230 may change the lock state when a pattern of voltage increase events are detected. In this way, security may be improved, by requiring a particular movement, or gesture, of movement of the component 220 relative to the proximity sensor 210. Example movements may include two or three closely-spaced voltage increase events (indicating two or three “passes” of the component 220 across the proximity sensor 210), or may include a voltage increase event exceeding a threshold duration (indicating holding of the component 220 over the proximity sensor 210 for a time period exceeding a threshold).

[0124] Referring to Figure 5, a plot of the output of the proximity sensor 210 is shown.

[0125] In the example illustrated in Figure 5, the proximity sensor 210 is a Hall effect sensor. Thus, the output is a voltage output, as indicated on the y axis. However, it will be appreciated that other sensor types may be employed which also provide output indicative of an interaction of the component 220 therewith.

[0126] Time is indicated on the x axis. A break in the x axis is indicated by double-slash lines. That is, the x axis is divided into a first time span on the left hand side, and a second time span on the right hand side, which may be some time after the first time span.

[0127] The Hall effect sensor voltage output is at a first, baseline, level 510 for a first time period. The first time period may be whilst the component 220 is not interacting with the proximity sensor 210, which may be whilst the component 220 is farther away from the proximity sensor 210 than the threshold distance, as described above. At time 530, the user may wish to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 from the first lock state to the second lock state. That is, the user may wish to unlock the device 100, to facilitate use or operation thereof, as described in detail above.

[0128] Therefore, at time 530, interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210 may be caused. The voltage output rises to a second level 520 due to interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210. The perturbation in the output is detected by the processor 230. The perturbation in the output can be used to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100. That is, the perturbation in the output can be used as a “trigger” to change the lock state, or as an activation input, used to change the lock state. The perturbation in the output at time 530 may be used to change the lock state from the first lock state to the second lock state - that is, from a locked state to an unlocked state.

[0129] At time 540, once the component 220 is removed, the aerosol generation device 100 may be maintained in the second lock state, as described above.

[0130] At a later time 550, the user may wish to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100 from the second lock state to the first lock state. That is, the user may wish to lock the device 100, to prevent use or operation thereof, as described in detail above.

[0131] Therefore, at time 550, interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210 may be caused. The voltage output rises to the second level 520 due to interaction of the component 220 with the proximity sensor 210. The perturbation in the output is detected by the processor 230. The perturbation in the output can be used to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device 100. That is, the perturbation in the output can be used as a “trigger” to change the lock state, or as an activation input, used to change the lock state. The perturbation in the output at time 550 may be used to change the lock state from the second lock state to the first lock state - that is, from an unlocked state to a locked state.

[0132] At time 560, once the component 220 is removed, the aerosol generation device 100 may be maintained in the first lock state, as described above.

[0133] Referring to Figure 6, an aerosol generation device 100 is schematically shown. The aerosol generation device 100 comprises a locking system 200 as described above. The locking system 200 may comprise any or all of the features of any example or examples of the locking system 200 as described above.

[0134] Referring to Figure 7, a method of controlling a lock state of an aerosol generation device is shown.

[0135] Step S710 comprises changing the lock state based on an output from a proximity sensor due to interaction of an aerosol generation device component with the proximity sensor.

[0136] Optional step S720 comprises changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device thereby to: allow electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; cause electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generation device; prevent provision of electrical power to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; terminate provision of electrical power to one or more heater components of the aerosol generation device; and / or prevent air from being drawn through the aerosol generation device.

[0137] Optional step S730 comprises changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device from a locked state to an unlocked state: for a predetermined period of time; for the duration of a vaping session; or until the lock state is changed based on an output from the proximity sensor due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor.

[0138] The method may comprise any or all of the features of any example or examples of the aerosol generation device 100 and / or locking system 200 as described above.

[0139] Although preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims and as described above.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A locking system (200) for an aerosol generation device (100), the locking system comprising: a proximity sensor (210); an aerosol generation device component (220) configured to be sensed by the proximity sensor; and a processor (230) configured to: change the lock state of the aerosol generation device based on an output from the proximity sensor due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor.

2. The locking system (200) according to claim 1 , wherein the processor (230) is configured to: monitor an output from the proximity sensor (210); detect a perturbation in the output due to interaction of the component with the proximity sensor (210); and change the lock state of the aerosol generation device (100).

3. The locking system (200) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the component (220) is configured to be sensed by the proximity sensor (210) by electrically and / or magnetically interacting therewith.

4. The locking system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proximity sensor (210) is configured to be provided in the aerosol generation device (100).

5. The locking system (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the proximity sensor (210) is configured to be provided in an accessory (450) which is separate to, or separatable from, the aerosol generation device, optionally wherein the accessory is a case for housing the aerosol generation device.

6. The locking system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein interaction of the component (220) with the proximity sensor (210) comprises relative movement of the component and the proximity sensor.

7. The locking system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the component (220) is configured to be removably provided at the aerosol generation device (100) such that the component can be removed from connection therewith to facilitate relative movement of the component and the proximity sensor.

8. The locking system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the proximity sensor (210) comprises a Hall effect sensor, and wherein the aerosol generation device component comprises a magnetic material.

9. The locking system (200) according to claim 8, wherein the proximity sensor comprises a permanent magnet proximal to the Hall effect sensor, and wherein the interaction of the component with the proximity sensor comprises a perturbation in a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet caused when the aerosol generation device component moves relative to the proximity sensor.

10. The locking system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the component is an aerosol generation device consumable (102), optionally a cartom izer.11 . The locking system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor (230) is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device (100) thereby to: allow electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components (106) of the aerosol generation device; cause electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components (106) of the aerosol generation device; allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generation device; prevent provision of electrical power to one or more heater components (106) of the aerosol generation device; terminate provision of electrical power to one or more heater components (106) of the aerosol generation device; and / or prevent air from being drawn through the aerosol generation device.

12. The locking system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor (230) is configured to change the lock state of the aerosol generation device (100) from a locked state to an unlocked state: for a predetermined period of time; for the duration of a vaping session; or until the lock state is changed based on an output from the proximity sensor (210) due to interaction of the component (220) with the proximity sensor (210).

13. An aerosol generation device (100) comprising the locking system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. A method of controlling a lock state of an aerosol generation device (100), the method comprising: changing the lock state based on an output from a proximity sensor (210) due to interaction of an aerosol generation device component (220) with the proximity sensor (210).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the method comprises changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device thereby to: allow electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components (106) of the aerosol generation device; cause electrical power to be provided to one or more heater components (106) of the aerosol generation device; allow air to be drawn through the aerosol generation device; prevent provision of electrical power to one or more heater components (106) of the aerosol generation device; terminate provision of electrical power to one or more heater components (106) of the aerosol generation device; and / or prevent air from being drawn through the aerosol generation device.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the method comprises changing the lock state of the aerosol generation device (100) from a locked state to an unlocked state: for a predetermined period of time; for the duration of a vaping session; oruntil the lock state is changed based on an output from the proximity sensor (210) due to interaction of the component (220) with the proximity sensor (210).

Images