Aerosol Provision System Lockout Timer Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-combustible aerosol provision systems lack a mechanism to limit usage time, leading to potential overconsumption of resources and security concerns, as they do not inherently terminate operation like traditional cigarettes.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a lockout timer functionality that allows the system to be used for a set period before locking, which can be set by the user, to restrict aerosol generation and conserve resources, and enhance security by preventing unauthorized use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lockout timer functionality is implemented, then resource consumption is limited and security is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically locks itself after the predetermined time period without requiring external intervention. The controller monitors the elapsed time and autonomously executes the locking function, eliminating the need for additional manual security mechanisms while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lockout timer is pre-configured with a predetermined time period before use. The system automatically initiates the counting-down period when activated, and the locking action is prepared in advance based on the elapsed time, reducing the need for complex real-time decision-making mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If continuous operation is allowed, then ease of operation is improved, but resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system operates in periodic cycles: it allows aerosol generation during the locked period, then automatically locks after the predetermined time elapses. This periodic locking mechanism maintains ease of operation during active use while automatically conserving resources through time-based restrictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors the elapsed time and provides feedback to the locking mechanism. When the predetermined time period is reached, the system automatically transitions from unlocked to locked state, creating a self-regulating feedback loop that balances operational ease with resource conservation without requiring user intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method of locking a non-combustible aerosol provision system. The method can include receiving user input representative of a request to lock the non-combustible aerosol provision system after a given period of time, and allowing the non-combustible aerosol provision system to be used to generate aerosols during the given period of time. The method further can include locking, in response to determining that the given period of time has elapsed, the non-combustible aerosol provision system to prevent the non-combustible aerosol provision system from being used to generate aerosols.