Personal vaporiser device with mode selection

Abstract

There is disclosed a portable vaporiser device with an energy store and a controller for controlling operation. The vaporiser device has a main body and a renewable component, which is arranged to be releasably coupled with the main body for operation. The manner in which the renewable component is coupled with the device is used by the controller to modify operation of the device. The controller may select or modify an operating mode or setting of the device based on how the renewable component is inserted. The controller may determine a repeated connection / disconnection event for the renewable component, such as a double, triple or quadruple reconnection sequence.

Description

[0001] Personal Vaporiser Device with Mode Selection

[0002] The present invention concerns personal vaporiser devices and, more specifically, although not exclusively, to multi-use devices or systems.

[0003] Personal vaporiser devices, sometimes referred to as e-cigarettes, vape devices or ‘vapes’, are handheld electronic devices that produce a vapour to be inhaled by a user. Such devices are also referred to as aroma diffusers since the ability to vaporise scented products is inherent. The vapour is commonly produced through the heating of a pod or tank, in which a vaporising medium, commonly a liquid, is contained. When in use, heat is applied using an element of the pod or tank and the vaporising medium forms a vapour, which is released, e.g. in order to be inhaled by the user through a mouthpiece of the device.

[0004] Personal vaporiser devices that form the current state of the art may be single-use or multi-use, and may provide the user of the device with options for altering the consumable liquid or the function of the device according to user preferences.

[0005] Many of the personal vaporiser devices available today are single-use, disposable items, intended to be thrown away by the user once the vaporising medium has been entirely depleted. Due to the intended disposable nature of such personal vaporiser devices, the features these provide a user are often limited, and a user of these devices may not be able to customise their use of the device, such as how much vapour the device produces, which is a desirable feature for a portion of users.

[0006] Single-use personal vaporiser devices also present a significant environmental problem, as such devices are often disposed of in general waste bins. This results in the devices ending up in landfill sites, rather than in recycling centres which could recycle the batteries and electronics contained in such devices. The environmental problem presented by such disposable personal vaporiser devices is intensified by the scale at which these devices are currently produced and subsequently used and disposed of.

[0007] Reusable, i.e. multi-use, personal vaporiser devices are also an option for users. Multi-use personal vaporisers allow the user to retain a main device unit, commonly comprising a battery and a majority of the device electronics, and use replaceable and / or refillable tanks or pods to continue using the device once a tank or pod is empty. Such personal

[0008] Confidential Internalvaporisers may also provide the user with controls, such as power mode options, so that the user can decide whether the device produces more or less vapour at any time, depending on which power mode is selected.

[0009] While multi-use personal vaporisers may provide a user with advantages over disposable personal vaporisers, the additional functionality adds to the complexity and cost of the device.

[0010] Another disadvantage of reusable personal vaporisers is in how the ability of the user to select power modes has been implemented. Vaporiser devices are relatively small and so the provision of a suitable user interface is not straightforward, e.g. often leading to inadvertent moisture ingress points. Where basic controls, such as switches, buttons or the like are implemented, these add to the complexity of the device but offer minimal functionality that may or may not address user preferences adequately.

[0011] It is not always clear to the user what function such controls perform.

[0012] Where more comprehensive user interfaces are provided, e.g. by way of a user interface having a screen, the complexity of the device is significantly increased, adding to the cost and the potential failure modes of the device. Such interfaces are generally reserved for expensive devices intended for the hobbyist user. Even then, the functionality may be limited, e.g. to controlling only one primary function, such as the power or intensity, albeit with an elevated degree of control.

[0013] Furthermore, there exists an issue with multi-use personal vaporisers in that end users may attempt to replace genuine pods with alternative pods or else may attempt to refill pods with consumable material that has not been intended by the device manufacturer.

[0014] It is an aim of the present invention is to provide a personal vaporiser device that mitigates or resolves one or more of the above defined problems. It may be considered an additional or alternative aim to provide a vaporiser device that allows a user to select an operating mode of the device in an alternative manner.

[0015] Summary of the Invention

[0016] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a portable vaporiser device comprising an energy store and a controller for controlling operation of the device

[0017] Confidential Internalusing the energy store, the vaporiser device having a main body and a replaceable or refillable component, wherein the component is arranged to be releasably or variably coupled with the device for operation, and wherein the manner in which the component is inserted into or coupled with the device is used by the controller to modify operation of the device.

[0018] The replaceable or refillable component may be defined as a renewable component.

[0019] The manner in which the component is inserted into the device may be used by the controller to select or modify an operating mode or setting, e.g. selecting from a plurality of predetermined operating modes or settings of the device.

[0020] The manner of insertion of the component may comprise a repeated connection / disconnection event (e.g. a double, triple or quadruple reconnection sequence). The component may be arranged to be releasably coupled with the device in a plurality of different orientations, e.g. angular or rotational orientations. A coupled orientation of the component with the device may be used by the controller to select or alter an operating mode / setting.

[0021] According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a replaceable or renewable component for coupling with a portable vaporiser device, wherein the component comprises a coupling formation allowing the manner of the coupling to be sensed. A plurality of spaced coupling formations may be provided, e.g. which may be angularly / rotationally spaced, linearly spaced or otherwise, e.g. as a matrix of positions.

[0022] The coupling formation may be releasably, repositionably or repeatably coupled or connected to the device. The coupling formation may comprise one or more electrical contact allowing the manner of the coupling to be sensed. The electrical contact may comprise a plurality of electrical contacts.

[0023] The coupling formation may allow coupling of the replaceable component in a plurality of different orientations. The coupling formation may provide an orientation indicator usable by the controller to determine the orientation in which the component is coupled.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a main body of a portable vaporiser device, wherein the main body of the device comprises a formation allowing

[0025] Confidential Internalvariable and / or repeatable coupling of a replaceable or refillable component, and a controller arranged to determine the manner in which the component is coupled or repeatably coupled and use said determination to affect a device operating mode / setting.

[0026] The controller may select from a plurality of predetermined operating modes or settings. The controller may select between an active and inactive status of the device, e.g. to control whether inhalation through the device will initiate operation / heating of the device.

[0027] The component may or may not be selectively coupled or recoupled to the device in a common orientation or a plurality of different orientations. The controller may determine a frequency of repeated decoupling and / or coupling (e.g. recoupling). The controller may determine a number of repeated coupling and / or decoupling actions over a predetermined time period of less than or equal to 5s, 4s, 3s, 2s or 1s.

[0028] The replaceable component may or may not comprise and identifier, instructions / code and / or usage information. The replaceable component may comprise a data store or data unit / device. The ID, instructions / code and / or usage information may be encrypted or provided in secure memory on the replaceable component. The ID or code may be a unique ID. Alternatively, the replaceable component may be authenticated without use of a predetermined ID.

[0029] Upon coupling, e.g. an initial / first coupling, the controller may communicate with the replaceable component, e.g. as a request, poll, handshake or information / data access event. The controller and replaceable component may undergo a security handshake or approval / authentication process. Upon approval or authentication, the device and replaceable component may become interoperable and / or the usage data of the replaceable component may be shared with the device controller. Failed authentication or disapproval may inhibit said interoperation and / or data exchange.

[0030] Upon decoupling / recoupling with the same replaceable component, the controller may determine a change to an operating mode or setting of the device based on the manner of said decoupling / recoupling, e.g. according to the frequency and / or number of decoupling / recoupling events. The controller may or may not implement the change at the end of a plurality / sequence of coupling events. The controller may confirm the component authentication prior to implementing the change of operation mode or setting.

[0031] Confidential InternalThe portable vaporiser may be free of any user-actuatable buttons, e.g. for normal operation or mode / temperature control. A robust and simple product may result.

[0032] The component may comprise a mouthpiece, a tank containing an atomisable / vaporisable medium, and / or an atomisation / vaporisation device (e.g. a heater). The component may comprise an onboard data store. The data store comprise a public and / or private memory portion. The data store may comprise encrypted data.

[0033] Different orientations in which the component may couple to the device may be angularly spaced about an axis of the component and / or device. An orientation indicator of the component or device may comprise one or more electrical contact.

[0034] The controller may determine one or more feature of the coupling or decoupling of the component to the device. The feature may comprise a time or timing of the coupling / decoupling of the component. The feature may comprise the timing or time spacing of a sequence of multiple couplings and / or de-couplings of the component, e.g. within in a set / predetermined amount of time. A timing threshold may be used by the controller. The timing threshold may comprise a duration and / or a count / number of sequential couplings / de-couplings of the replaceable component within said threshold, e.g. 2 or 3 couplings within 1 , 2 or 3 seconds, instead of a single coupling before use.

[0035] The controller may use variations other than frequency or orientation in the way in which the component is coupled to the device in selecting from the plurality of operating modes.

[0036] The controller of the device may determine the charging status of the device and / or whether an electrical port of the device has a cable inserted. The controller may use such a determination in selecting from the plurality of operating modes. The controller may determine a timing of coupling, de-coupling or re-coupling of the component relative to a timing of charging or cable connection. The controller may vary a mode selection or alter an operating mode based on a determination of concurrent coupling and charging or cable connection.

[0037] The operating modes of the device may include any of a power level, lighting mode, inhalation control mode, and / or any combination of these. The inhalation control mode may comprise a count, duration, timing or volume of inhalation. The inhalation control mode may comprise a puff count mode. The inhalation control mode may control the power level (e.g. heating temperature) for generation of vapour.

[0038] Confidential InternalThe device may comprise indication means for indicating to a user when an operating mode has been selected or modified / altered. The indication means may indicate the current operating mode of the device. The indication means may comprise a user interface, light or the like. Other indication means may be used.

[0039] The device may comprise means for indicating to the user the remaining charge or battery level of the device.

[0040] The device may comprise an electrical port for charging the energy store of the device.

[0041] The component and / or device may comprise a coupling alignment formation, e.g. such that the component reliably couples to the device in such a way to allow correct operation of the device. The device may comprise a corresponding / opposing alignment formation.

[0042] The alignment formation and / or corresponding formation may be range-taking. The formation may be self-aligning or tapered. The formation may be obliquely angled or ramped. The formation may urge the coupling motion between the component and device laterally into alignment, e.g. in response to an axial coupling force. The formation may taper to an apex or end, e.g. at which the replaceable component is fully coupled or correctly seated with the device.

[0043] The alignment formation may comprise opposingly angled or ramped formations, e.g. as a tapering or V-shaped arrangement.

[0044] The component and device may be correspondingly shaped for a close fit. The device may comprise an opening or recess shaped to correspond with a shape of the component. The component may be insertable, or releasably insertable, into the device.

[0045] The device and / or component may comprise a positive coupling formation, such as a latch. The positive coupling formation may be releasable. A mechanical latch or clip may be used. A magnetic coupling / latch may be used. A friction coupling may be used.

[0046] The component may comprise one or more (e.g. a plurality) electrical contact to allow the transfer of power and / or data between the component and device when in use. The main

[0047] Confidential Internalbody of the device may comprise one or more (e.g. a plurality) electrical contact to allow the transfer of power and / or data between the component and device when in use.

[0048] The coupling of the component to the device may form an electrical / data communication interface between the component and device. A polarity of electrical contacts of the component may be used as an orientation indicator for the coupling by the controller of the device.

[0049] The component may comprise an authentication member and / or other data store / module / carrier for communicating with the device through an electrical communication interface.

[0050] According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a portable vaporiser device comprising: a main body having a battery and a controller for controlling operation of the device to heat a consumable material using power supplied by the battery; and, a renewable component comprising a mouthpiece and a receptacle for the consumable material, wherein the main body comprises a recess to receive the receptacle of the renewable component, the main body and renewable component comprising corresponding tapered engagement formations arranged to be in abutment when the renewable component is coupled with the main body for use.

[0051] Either or both of the tapered engagement formations may comprise opposingly tapered portions, such as surfaces, sides or edges. The opposingly tapered portions may or may not meet at an apex. The opposingly tapered portions may be obliquely angled relative to a direction of insertion or coupling of the renewable component into the main body or recess thereof. The opposingly tapered portions may be obliquely angled relative to a central axis of the device.

[0052] The tapered engagement formation of the renewable component may be located between the mouthpiece and receptacle, e.g. at an interface between the mouthpiece and receptacle. A step or lip may or may not be provided at the interface, e.g. to define the engagement formation. The mouthpiece may be wider than the receptacle at the interface, e.g. to define the step. The tapered engagement formations may be V-shaped or chevronshaped.

[0053] Confidential InternalOne or more light may be provided at / along the engagement formation of the main body or replaceable component. The one or more light may extend along the full extent of the engagement formation. A lighting strip may be provided. The one or more light may be elongate in form and / or may be variably illuminated along its length.

[0054] The main body may be rounded in form, e.g. being ovoid in form. The main body may be oval or elliptical in cross section. The mouthpiece may taper towards an inhalation opening.

[0055] Any optional or essential feature define in relation to any one aspect of the invention may be applied to any further aspect of the invention, wherever practicable, for example as exemplified by the description below.

[0056] Practicable embodiments of the invention are described in further detail below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] Description of drawings

[0058] Figure 1 shows a three-dimensional view of a vaporiser device with a replaceable component coupled for operation.

[0059] Figure 2 shows the main body of the device from Figure 1.

[0060] Figure 3 shows a plan view into a cavity of the main body of the.

[0061] Figure 4 shows a plan view of an electrical port of the main body.

[0062] Figure 5 shows an example three-dimensional view of the replaceable component. Figure 6 shows a plan view of the end of the replaceable component.

[0063] Figure 7 shows the replaceable component of Figure 5, with certain internal parts being visible.

[0064] Figure 8 shows a schematic of the electrical system of an example device and replaceable component.

[0065] Figure 9 is a flow chart showing a control sequence for operating the device.

[0066] Figure 10 is a chart showing example steps for selecting operating modes.

[0067] Detailed Description

[0068] The present invention is a portable vaporiser device 10, comprising a main device body 12 and a replaceable component 14. Whilst the component 14 is described herein as a

[0069] Confidential Internal‘replaceable component’, it will be appreciated that it could instead be refillable for re-use. As such the component may equally be referred to as a ‘renewable component’, ‘re-couplable component’ or ‘reusable component’ more generally in that it allows for recoupling, repositioning and / or re-use in a manner as will be described herein.

[0070] The portable vaporiser device described herein is a handheld device, e.g. as a personal portable vaporiser device. Typically, the energy store (e.g. battery) of the device is rechargeable, removable, and / or replaceable.

[0071] Figure 1 shows the device 10, with the replaceable component 14 coupled in its operational position to the main body 12 of the device. The device 10 shown in this embodiment is a rounded, handheld device, i.e. fitting comfortably within the grip of a single hand. The device 10 is generally in the shape of a rounded oblong or oval in plan. The device 10 has a depth dimension that is shallower / shorter than the length or width of the device. As such the device may be described as being generally pebble shaped, lozenge shaped or a flattened ellipsoid. The device 10 is tapered towards a mouthpiece end by virtue of the shape of the replaceable component.

[0072] The main body 12 of the device is shown without the replaceable component 14 in Figure 2, and comprises a shell 16 and internal electronics.

[0073] The shell 16 encompasses the main electronics of the device 10, e.g. including a power source as will be described below. The main body 12 has a mouth or opening 18 at one end to expose one or more electrical contact 22 therein. The shell 16 is shaped to provide a cavity 20 for the insertion of the replaceable component 14 and to provide a tapering or ‘V-shape’ profile at the opening / mouth 18 of the cavity 20. The mouth profile is formed by opposingly oriented edges 18a at the opening 18, which slope inwards from the peripheral edge of the shell 16 towards a centre or central axis of the device.

[0074] The cavity 20 of this embodiment is shaped such that the replaceable component 14 can be inserted in two different orientations for operation. The is to say the cavity is symmetrical about a centreline of the device in one or two orthogonal directions. The cavity 20 and / or opening 18 may have rotational symmetry. When viewed in plan as shown in Figure 3, the opening 18 and cavity is oval in form. The cavity 20 has a constant cross-sectional profile throughout its length / depth so that the replaceable component 14 of corresponding profile can slide into and out of the cavity.

[0075] Confidential InternalThe tapering mouth formation 18 is arranged such that it forms at least part of the opening of the cavity 20. The tapering formation 18 is formed at an extremity / end of the shell 16 and an apex of the taper is located part-way along the shell 16 away from such extremity, end or lateral sides. The tapering formation 18 can guide the coupling of the component 14 to the main body 12 upon insertion.

[0076] An electrical port 24 is provided at the opposing end of the main body as shown in Figure 4. The port 24 provides for power and / or data connection and may comprise a conventional connector, e.g. such as a USB-C connector or the like.

[0077] Referring to Figures 5-7, the component 14 of this embodiment takes the form of a replaceable / renewable pod and comprises a reservoir or tank 28 of material to be consumed by heating in use. The consumable material 28 may comprise a vapourisable / atomisable liquid having active ingredient, such as a stimulant. The consumable material 28 may be / comprise a conventional so-called e-liquid arranged to be vapourised upon heating. The consumable material may comprise a propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine or equivalent. The consumable material may comprise one or more flavouring. Whilst the device 10 disclosed herein is referred to as a vaporization device (i.e. to vaporise the liquid by heating), it will be appreciated that also be referred to as an atomization device and may use other mechanisms to vaporise / atomize the liquid for inhalation. Any such vaporization / atomization mechanisms may be used on the device. The liquid consumable material 28 may be referred to as a precursor liquid for vaporization or atomization.

[0078] In this embodiment, the replaceable component 14 comprises a mouthpiece 26 by which a user can inhale the vapourised consumable material in use.

[0079] In this embodiment, the component 14 comprises a heater 30 as shown in Figure 7. The heater element is thus on-board the component 14 and may be located in / adjacent the tank 28. An additional / alternative vaporising / atomising device may be on-board the component 14.

[0080] The mouthpiece 26 is formed such that when the pod 14 is inserted into the cavity 20, the mouthpiece 26 protrudes from the cavity and provides an aperture 38 through which the user inhales vapour in use.

[0081] Confidential InternalThe replaceable pod 14 thus serves as a vaporiser for a consumable / vapourisable medium when supplied with power. The tank 28 may comprise a transparent wall material, allowing a user to visually inspect the vaporisable medium in the tank 28.

[0082] The pod 14 may have one or more light or illuminated portion 36, e.g. in the form of one or more LED, which may be used by the device 10 for indicating information to the user and / or may be decorative in purpose. The light(s) or illuminated portion of the device is elongate and may extend along the tapering formation 18 of the main body, i.e. at the interface between the pod / mouthpiece and the main body. The light(s) or illuminated portion may extend along an edge of the pod 14. The elongate nature allows it to be progressively or variably illuminated, e.g. by a plurality of LEDs along its length. Varying lengths / LEDs can be illuminated to provide variable feedback to the user.

[0083] In the embodiment shown, the pod 14 has a transparent portion 36 to be illuminated by a light / LED on the main body. However, one or more light on the pod 14 is also possible.

[0084] The electronics contained within the shell 16 of the main body 12 comprise an electronic controller 40, a battery 42, and an inhalation sensor 44, as shown in Figure 8. The light(s) 36 may be provided on the main body. In other examples, alternative indicia or display means could be used, controllable by the controller 40 to provide user feedback or inputs. A display, touchscreen, speaker, buzzer, haptic feedback or the like could be used.

[0085] The electronic controller has connected to it one or more electrical contact 22 which is exposed by the shell 16 at the base of the cavity 20, as shown in Figure 3. A plurality of contacts may be used. One or more contact may provide a power connection. One or more further contact may provide a data / communication connection. In this example a plurality / pair of power contacts are provided and a plurality / pair of data connections.

[0086] The battery of this embodiment is rechargeable and is connected to an electrical port 24, which is usable to charge the battery. The energy store or battery could be removable, and / or replaceable.

[0087] The electronics of the component 14 are connected to one or more electrical contact 32, corresponding to the one or more electrical contact 22 of the main body. The electrical contact(s) 32 of the component 14 is exposed to form a connection with the electrical

[0088] Confidential Internalcontact(s) 22 of the main device when coupled. The replaceable component 14 and main body 12 each have four electrical contacts.

[0089] The component 14 comprises a pod authenticator 46, see Figure 8, connected to electrical contacts 32. The pod authenticator is used by the device 10 for the communication of data between the pod 14 and device main body 12 when coupled. Such data can be used by the device 10, for example, to verify the validity of the pod 14 in use and / or correctly power the atomizer / vaporiser device. It will be appreciated that the authenticator 46 typically takes the form of circuitry allowing an authentication routine to be carried out.

[0090] Additionally / alternatively the component 14 includes an authenticator data unit and / or another data unit. Such data unit may comprise a data store, which may be used by the device 10 for the storing and / or transfer of data about the replaceable unit 14. Such data may inform how the device should operate and / or adjust its operation by the controller when the pod 14 is coupled. Such data may include information about the vaporisable medium stored in the tank 28 of the pod 14 and / or information about the vaporisation / atomisation device (e.g. heater 30) and / or any other information about the pod 14 relevant to the operation of the device 10.

[0091] Data stored on the replaceable component may comprise any, any combination or all of:

[0092] - the vaporisable medium (e.g. its content);

[0093] - a volume of the tank 28 and / or the vapourisable medium contained in the tank; - the age of the replaceable component or the vapourisable medium in the tank (e.g.

[0094] in the form of a ‘use by’ date or a manufacture date)

[0095] - authorisation data or a product ID (e.g. in the form of a machine-readable code or identifier, such as a unique identifier);

[0096] - puff count or historic use data for the pod, such as usage duration or volume; - vaporisation / atomisation device information / instructions, e.g. a heating temperature, profile and / or duration;

[0097] - threshold use data, such as a maximum puff count, frequency of use, or the like.

[0098] Any, any combination or all of the above data may optionally be stored in a secure manner, such as being encrypted or stored in a private memory portion of the data store. As such authentication and / or decryption may be required to retrieve, access and / or modify any such data. The replaceable unit or pod 14 may comprise a combination of

[0099] Confidential Internalsecure data and public / open data as necessary, e.g. whereby the above data provided on the pod may be split into secure and public data types. User selectable data / settings may be public, whereas other operation / usage data may be secure / private.

[0100] The device 10 and replaceable unit 14 may undergo an authorisation or security check upon coupling (e.g. upon first insertion of the pod). A security / authorisation check, handshake or routine may be performed, e.g. by one or both of the device 10 and pod 14 (e.g. a bi-directional handshake / routine). The device 10 may hold in secure memory a code or cryptographic key for accessing the data securely held on the pod.

[0101] Whilst in some embodiments, the authentication process could comprise an ID check for the replaceable unit 14, in the present embodiment a slave authentication write process is used. This can avoid the need to carry / share a unique ID for each pod and the authentication process, or individual steps thereof, may define a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0102] An example authentication process may be initiated by generating a random number by the controller, which is returned by the replaceable unit 14. The controller may then generate an initialisation vector and MAC, which is transmitted to the unit 14. The unit 14 can then compare the MAC and compute the stream cipher before returning the ES. Once verified by the controller, writing of data to the unit 14 may be permitted.

[0103] If one of the device or pod is not recognised by the other, the device may be unable to access the data on the pod, write data and / or unable to supply power to the pod.

[0104] Once authorised, the device 10 may access, retrieve, process and / or modify / update the data held on the replaceable unit. For example, the device may retrieve a heating temperature or profile for the pod (e.g. without being able to alter it). The device may be able to increment or update usage data (e.g. puff count) and / or certain pod data, such as the volume of the vapourisable medium on the pod.

[0105] Once authorised, the device may need to perform one or more further data check prior to enabling use of the device with the pod. The device may check that a usage threshold (e.g. puff count) or an age (e.g. use-by date) for the pod has not been exceeded. As such both a security check and a functional data check may be performed in sequence or parallel before enabling use of the pod with the device.

[0106] Confidential InternalThe user control system described herein allows a user to select predefined settings, modes or parameters that can affect the operation by the device controller. This is achieved by the manner of insertion of the pod by the user.

[0107] The replaceable component 14 is shaped to be inserted into the cavity 20 provided by the shell 16 of the device, such that the electrical contacts 32 of the pod 14 and electrical contacts 22 of the main body 12 align to form a connection when the replaceable component 14 is inserted. The pod 14 is also shaped such that it has a tapering formation 34 corresponding to the tapering formation 18 at the opening of the cavity 20 of the shell 16. The tapering formation 34 eases the coupling of the pod 14 to the main body 12. Other embodiments may provide alternative coupling formations for guiding the pod and device connection.

[0108] The shape of the pod 14 is rotationally symmetric, such that the pod 14 can be inserted into the cavity 20 in two different orientations for operation, angularly spaced by 180 degrees about a central axis of the pod 14. In other embodiments, the replaceable component 14 may be shaped to be inserted or coupled for operation to the main body 12 in any other number of orientations. The component 14 may be rotationally alignable with the main body 12 in any number from two to eight or ten orientations and alignment formations may be provided to define said different orientations.

[0109] In use, the manner of insertion or coupling of the pod 14 by the user allows the user to select a desired operating mode of the device 10. The manner of insertion / coupling is determined by the controller of the device, and such determination is then used by the controller to select from a plurality of predefined operating modes.

[0110] The controller determines whether the pod 14 is inserted / coupled once, twice, three times or four times within a predetermined time period of 2s, 3s or 4s. The controller may or may not determine the orientation of the pod 14 and / or the charging state of the device 10 when the pod 14 is inserted. The controller may be able to determine other manners of insertion / coupling than those mentioned here.

[0111] The corresponding electrical contacts of the main body and / or pod 14 are arranged such that a functional electrical connection is made between the electrical contacts 32, 22 for the two different / opposite orientations of the pod 14. That is to say, the electrical contacts

[0112] Confidential Internalwill align if the pod is inserted into the main body in a first orientation or a second orientation in which the pod is rotated about its central axis by 180“ relative to the first orientation. The tank 28 of the pod 14 is a close fit within the cavity 20 of the main body in either orientation so that the electrical contacts are aligned. If the pod had more degrees of rotational symmetry, then more coupling orientations may be achievable. This may also require a greater number of electrical contacts on the pod or main body of the device to accommodate the possible orientations.

[0113] Example operating modes / parameters of that can be altered by the user could comprise:

[0114] - choices between a plurality of power levels,

[0115] an LED lighting mode,

[0116] an inhalation control mode,

[0117] - an active / inactive device selection.

[0118] The choice between a plurality power levels allows a user to choose how much vapour the device 10 produces, e.g. a selection between a higher power and a lower power heating mode. This may control the output by the device to suit user preference or reduce power to conserve battery charge. A number of sequential connections between the pod and device may select the associated power level (e.g. one tap being power level one, two taps being power level two and / or three taps being power level three or max power).

[0119] The lighting mode may provide the user a choice between one or more light of the device being on or off during use, or else how the lighting / feedback is provided. For example, the light may illuminate upon detection of inhalation by the user in one mode, e.g. to confirm to the user that the vaporiser is operating and / or the level of charge. Changing the manner of insertion of the pod 14 may select whether or not this lighting mode is active.

[0120] The inhalation control mode may provide a choice to the user of whether or not the device 10 limits use of the device 10 to a predetermined usage or power / intensity threshold. When active, the device may be limited to a threshold usage constraint, e.g. such as a predetermined power / temperature for vaporisation; puff count within a time period, such as a day; a predetermined number of consecutive puffs within a short time window; and / or a predetermined puff duration / volume. A user may thus activate this mode to regulate usage of the device or may deactivate it preference the manner of pod insertion. Different levels of inhalation control may be made available for different numbers of consecutive pod insertions to the device.

[0121] Confidential InternalThe active / inactive selection mode may allow the device 10 to be put to sleep, locked or in a ‘safe’ mode, e.g. such that the device will not be usable to create vapour whilst in that mode. In this way, the user can have the device in an active state whilst it is on their person, e.g. in their pocket, bag or the like, and likely to be used. When the device is not intended to be used, the user can select the inactive state, e.g. by double / triple tapping the pod in / out of connection or by turning the pod around, so that it will not activate upon subsequent inhalation. This can be used to prevent unwanted use of the device by others. A more complicated, e.g. two-step or multi-step, process could be used to obfuscate this mode selection. This could entail turning or removal of the pod two or more times, e.g. as a sequence of steps to enable / disable normal operation.

[0122] The pod 14 is retained by the device main body 12 after the insertion of the pod 14. A specific retaining formation may hold the replaceable component 14 in the main body 12, e.g. being easily released by the user. Such a releasable retention formation may use a magnet, friction, a mechanical latch or clip, and / or any other manner for retention in order to releasably retain the replaceable component 14 in the main body 12.

[0123] Following the insertion of the pod 14 into the main body 12 of the device, the controller determines the manner in which the user inserted the pod 14 and selects the appropriate operating mode or setting change. As with the initial authentication of the pod by the device (and vice versa) the pod authentication process may be performed after recoupling (or a sequence of re-couplings) by the user. Thus the device controller can confirm the same pod has been re-coupled and apply the change. If a different pod is subsequently inserted, the associated settings may be reset to a default condition and the new pod authenticated for use.

[0124] The insertion of the pod 14 allows a connection to be formed by the contacts 32, 22 of the pod and device. This provides an electrical communication interface allowing power and / or data to be transferred and / or shared between the pod 14 and main device 12.

[0125] The electrical communication interface allows the controller to determine the orientation of the pod 14, as a polarity of one or more of the pod electrical contacts 32 is monitored by the controller through the electrical communication interface. This may be achieved implicitly within the circuitry of the device, e.g. by the use of one or more diode within the device circuitry. The orientation of the pod 14 can be determined by the one or more

[0126] Confidential Internalcontact of the main body electrical contacts 22 with which the one or more monitored electrical contact 32 of the pod forms a connection.

[0127] Alternative orientation indicators may include multiple sets of one or more electrical contact so that the orientation can be determined by which set of one or more electrical contact forms an electrical connection, and / or may monitor any of the electrical properties of the electrical contacts and / or the electrical connection formed, e.g. resistance.

[0128] Alternative orientation indicators may use a data unit of the replaceable component 14 to indicate the orientation of the replaceable component 14 relative to the main device 12.

[0129] The electrical communication interface allows the controller to determine the number of insertions of the pod 14 within the set time period, e.g. a short time period of 1 , 2, 3, 4 or 5 seconds. After the initial formation of the electrical communication interface, a timing feature of the device 10 is active. While such timing feature is active, the controller monitors the connection of the electrical communication interface and whether a disconnection and subsequent reconnection of the electrical communication interface occurs. Once the set time has elapsed and / or after a predetermined number of the electrical connections is detected within the time period, the controller implements the associated control change. A single insertion or plurality of insertions of the pod in quick succession can be used to select an operation parameter or select a mode of the device.

[0130] Other embodiments of the present invention may be able to determine similar connection / disconnection sequences, e.g. of different or variable number or count and / or time periods. A combination of orientation and reinsertion count could be used, e.g. as a more complex control sequence.

[0131] The charging status of the device can be monitored by the controller, as shown by the diagram in Figure 8. Whilst the device is charging, the methods of user input, e.g. the mode selection methods discussed above, may have a different function. One mode selection may be made whilst the pod is charging (or electrically connected at the port 24) and another mode selection may be made by the same user input gesture when the device is not charging (or not connected at port 24). For example, a user could disable the device using a control input whilst it is left on charge to prevent use by anyone else.

[0132] Since inhalation is sensed by the device 10 controller for normal operation, it is also possible that inhalation could be used as a control input. For example, when the device is

[0133] Confidential Internalon charge, inhalation by the user may be used to select any of the modes or parameters described herein. A single inhalation could be used to toggle on / off a mode / function. A sequence of inhalations within a predetermined time period (e.g. a few seconds) may be used for different user / level selections.

[0134] An example of how the controller may select the appropriate operating mode based on the determinations discussed above is shown by the chart in Figure 10. Following the insertion of the pod 14, the controller checks the successive pod insertion count and then checks the charging status of the device and makes the relevant determinations according to such checks. The controller then activates one of four operating modes A-D, according to the determinations made by the controller of the number of pod insertions (e.g. 1 , 2, 3 or 4) and / or charging status. Another check of the polarity of the one or more electrical contact 32 is made by the controller and a further operating mode (or change to the existing mode) may be activated according to the resulting determination.

[0135] The number of operating modes of the device 10 may be different for other embodiments of the present invention and may be the same as the number of different possible manners of coupling the replaceable component 14 to the device body 12. For example, the device may only allow selection between two, three, four of five modes and may not require all the control inputs described herein. Other embodiments of the present invention may use a different order, permutation, combination, and / or number of checks made by the controller for the determinations used in selecting the operating mode.

[0136] The selected operating mode of the device 10 may be changed or altered after the initial selection by the user through the removal and subsequent re-insertion of the same pod 14 into the cavity 20 in another manner.

[0137] The device 10 is configured such that the relationship between the manner of insertion of the pod 14 and the operating modes allows one of the choices of the operating modes to be changed by the user if the user changes the manner of insertion when re-inserting the pod 14. For example, if the device 10 is configured such that the lighting mode is activated when the pod 14 is inserted in one orientation, if the user removes the pod 14 and changes the orientation of the pod 14 to a second orientation, the lighting mode will not be deactivated for any manner of insertion in which the pod 14 is re-inserted in such second orientation. The other determined factors of the manner of pod insertion can configured to affect other options of the operating modes. The pod could be reinserted a number of

[0138] Confidential Internaltimes in either orientation to alter power level, inhalation control or to disable the device from unwanted use. Such configurations provide for user intuitive manipulation of the device 10 and its operating modes according to the manner of pod insertion.

[0139] Following the selection or change of an operating mode, the device 10 may indicate such a selection or change to the user through a light sequence / colour displayed by the light 36. Such an indication may be generic, e.g. simply lighting up, or may be specific to the change or operating mode selected. The light sequence displayed may include solid and / or flashing lights, e.g. altogether or in sequence, and / or may include one or a plurality of coloured lights. Any such lighting and / or alternative indicating means may also be used by to indicate other information about the device 10 (e.g. battery level, liquid level, inhalation, incorrect pod insertion, a fault or denial of operation). Flashing may indicate a fault, depleted battery or an incompatible pod. Colour may be used to indicate a pod content or flavour.

[0140] An example of how the device might operate in use is shown in Figure 9. Following an authentication check, the device 10 is ready for inhalation by the user following insertion of the pod 14. The insertion of the pod 14 automatically selects the default operating mode of the device 10 and an LED may indicate the remaining device battery level.

[0141] The inhalation sensor of the device detects when the user inhales through the mouthpiece 26 of the device 10. Such detection initiates the operation of the device in providing vapour to the user.

[0142] In operation for providing vapour to the user, the controller of the device 10 first reads the power level of the current operating mode and selects the appropriate power level. The controller then reads the lighting state of the current operating mode and turns on or off the LED 36 as appropriate.

[0143] The vaporiser of the device 10 is then activated by the controller and vapour is delivered through the aperture 38 of the mouthpiece 26 to the user. Upon activation of the vaporiser, power is provided by the main device 12 to the heater 30 through the electrical communication interface at the appropriate power level defined by the operating mode. The heater 30 applies heat to the vaporisable medium contained in the tank 28 and the vaporisable medium is vaporised. The vapour produced by the heated vaporisable medium is directed through the aperture 38 to the user.

[0144] Confidential InternalWhile the vaporiser is active, a ‘puff timer’ or ‘puff counter’ may be activated and the device 10 may monitor the duration / count of inhalations by the user while such timer is active. Once the user has stopped inhalation, the controller reads whether the inhalation control mode is selected as an operating mode. If the inhalation control mode is not part of the current operating mode, the user is able to continue using the device 10 without restriction. If inhalation control is active the controller compares the inhalation duration / count to a set threshold or limit. If the threshold has been reached by the user, the inhalation control is implemented and the device 10 will not provide vapour to the user during subsequent inhalations, e.g. until the end of the relevant time period.

[0145] The inhalation control mode may use a threshold or limit such as: a power threshold; an absolute limit of the volume of vapour the user has inhaled; the number of inhalations or puffs by the user; and / or, the length of time a user has been taking consecutive inhalations through the device. The threshold may be implemented such that a user is limited to a certain volume or intensity of vapour or number of puffs inhaled within a set length of time, e.g. within one hour or day.

[0146] The inhalation control may be implemented such that the user can only operate the device 10 after a certain amount of time has elapsed once the threshold or limit is reached or may be indefinite, e.g. requiring the user to remove and re-insert the pod 14 for subsequent use of the device 10.

[0147] In some embodiments, the component may not need to be fully removed or released from the main body to make the mode selection or change operation. The component may for example be decoupled and recoupled without pulling the pod fully from the main body.

[0148] Embodiments of the invention described herein therefore accommodate a wide variety of control inputs by a user to control a plurality of possible functions of the device. Any such combinations of control inputs and associated device function(s) are intended to be enabled by the current disclosure to the extent that they are within the scope of the described aspects of the invention or the appended claims.

[0149] Confidential Internal

Claims

Claims:

1. A portable vaporiser device comprising:an energy store and a controller for controlling operation of the device using the energy store,the vaporiser device having a main body and a renewable component, wherein the renewable component is arranged to be releasably coupled with the main body for operation of the device, andwherein the manner in which the renewable component is coupled with the main body is used by the controller to modify operation of the device.

2. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 1 , wherein the manner in which the renewable component is coupled with the main body is used by the controller to select or alter an operating mode of the device.

3. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the manner in which the renewable component is coupled comprises a frequency of coupling or recoupling of the renewable component determined by the controller.

4. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the controller counts the number of times the renewable component is repeatedly coupled over a predetermined time period and / or a time spacing between sequential couplings of the renewable component, and the controller selects or modifies operation of the device according thereto.

5. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein a time period of less than or equal to five seconds, four seconds, three seconds or two seconds is used by the controller to determine the manner in which the renewable component is coupled with the main body.

6. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the renewable component is arranged to be releasably coupled with the main body in a plurality of different orientations, wherein the controller selects an operating mode of the device in dependence upon the coupled orientation of the renewable component relative to the main body.idential Internal7. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the renewable component comprises a mouthpiece, a tank containing a vaporisable medium and / or an atomisation or vaporisation device, such as a heater.

8. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the controller determines whether an electrical port of the device has a cable connected concurrently with the coupling of the renewable component to the main body, and the controller selects or modifies a mode of the device in accordance with said determination.

9. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 8, wherein the controller selects one mode or mode change when a cable is inserted in the electrical port and a different mode or mode change when the electrical port has no cable inserted.

10. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the operation of the device modified by the controller according to the manner of insertion of the renewable component comprises any or any combination of: a power level of vaporisation or power supply to the renewable component, a lighting mode, andan inhalation control mode.

11. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 10, wherein the controller selects from a plurality of predetermined power levels according to the manner of coupling of the renewable component.

12. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein an inhalation control mode comprises the controller limiting operation of the device according to a count, duration, timing or volume of inhalation.

13. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the controller inhibits operation of the device according to the manner of coupling of the renewable component at least until the renewable component is recoupled in the same manner or a different predetermined manner.idential Internal14. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the renewable component and main body perform an authentication routine prior to the controller providing power for use of the vaporiser device.

15. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the renewable component comprises functional data accessed by the controller to affect operation of the vaporiser device.

16. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 15, wherein the functional data comprises any, any combination or all of the following for the renewable component:a vaporisable medium contained therein;a volume of vaporisable medium contained therein;an expiry date or age;historic use data, e.g. puff count, usage duration, usage temperature; vaporisation device instructions, such as heating temperature, a power setting / profile, a use duration or profile;threshold use data.

17. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the controller can update or amend functional data on the renewable component, e.g. subject to authorisation.

18. A portable vaporiser device according to claims 14-17, wherein data on the renewable component is encrypted or stored in secure memory.

19. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim wherein the controller undergoes an authentication check for the renewable component upon a first coupling with the main body and checks the same renewable component has been recoupled prior to modifying operation of the device according to the manner of recoupling.

20. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, comprising indication means for indicating to a user when an operating mode has been selected or modified.idential Internal21. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the renewable component and main body each comprise a coupling alignment formation arranged to correspond with each other as the reusable component and main body are brought together.

22. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 16, wherein the coupling alignment formation of the renewable component and / or main body is range-taking, selfaligning, tapered, obliquely angled or V-shaped.

23. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the main body comprises a recess and an opening to the recess, wherein the recess and opening are shaped to correspond with a shape of the renewable component.

24. A portable vaporiser device according to any preceding claim, wherein the main body comprises an orientation sensor for sensing the orientation of the coupled renewable component, such as a plurality of contacts arranged for contact with one or more electrical contact of the renewable component in different orientations.

25. A portable vaporiser device according to claim 24, wherein the controller determines the polarity of the plurality of electrical contacts to determine the orientation of the renewable component.

26. A main body of a portable vaporiser device arranged for coupling with a renewable component carrying a vaporisable medium, wherein the main body comprises a coupling formation allowing the manner of the coupling to be sensed and a controller arranged to assign or change an operational control of the vaporiser device for delivering vapor to a user according to the sensed manner of coupling.idential Internal

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