Electromechanical E-Cigarette Feedback Circuit for Short Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic cigarette and vaporizer systems rely on digital control mechanisms that are prone to failure due to aberrant activation caused by software issues, leading to potential safety hazards from short circuits and overheating.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanical feedback system with MOSFET switches and circuitry for short and cartridge detection, disabling power to the atomizer upon detecting a short circuit and signaling user via LED and vibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If digital control mechanisms are used to modulate user experience feedback, then user experience can be controlled, but the system becomes prone to failure due to software issues and aberrant activation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces digital control mechanisms with an electromechanical feedback system that uses physical electrical connections and analog circuitry. The system employs electrical switches (transistors), resistors, capacitors, and feedback loops to control atomizer activation without relying on software or microcontrollers. This substitution eliminates software bugs and digital communication failures while maintaining the ability to modulate user experience through electrical control of the heating element.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive electrical components such as transistors, resistors, and capacitors that can be easily replaced if failed. These basic electronic components are more reliable than complex digital systems and can be manufactured at lower cost. The system uses readily available off-the-shelf components rather than specialized digital controllers, improving both reliability and cost-effectiveness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex digital control systems are implemented, then functionality can be enhanced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex digital control systems with a streamlined electromechanical feedback system using basic electrical components. Instead of microcontrollers, software, and digital communication protocols, the system uses analog electrical circuits with transistors for switching, resistors for current limiting, and capacitors for timing and feedback. This reduction in complexity maintains essential functionality while eliminating software dependencies and reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses universal, standard electrical components that can be found in any electronics manufacturer's inventory. Transistors, resistors, capacitors, and PCBs are common components used across countless applications. This universality allows the system to maintain functionality while reducing complexity, as these components are well-understood, easily sourced, and do not require specialized digital control infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If continuous power is supplied to detection devices, then detection accuracy can be maintained, but battery life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic activation of the electromechanical feedback system components rather than continuous operation. The system uses idle detection cycles where the microcontroller briefly activates to check for cartridge presence and battery status, then enters low-power sleep mode. This periodic operation maintains sufficient detection accuracy for safety monitoring while dramatically extending battery life by minimizing power consumption during non-critical periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous safety monitoring through a low-power voltage divider circuit that continuously monitors battery voltage without requiring active microcontroller intervention. This passive continuous monitoring ensures safety functions remain operational while consuming minimal power, allowing the system to maintain useful detection capability throughout the battery's entire lifespan without frequent high-power activation cycles.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides reliable short circuit protection, preventing overheating and user harm by disabling the device and alerting the user, while being cost-effective and reducing reliance on complex digital systems.
Implementation Method 1
The electromechanical feedback UI includes an LED light and a vibration motor
Implementation Method 2
The electromechanical feedback UI includes an LED light and a vibration motor
Implementation Method 3
The switch comprises two electrically controlled switches with a higher current switch and a lower current switch carrying abilities allow controlling power delivery to separate circuits; the higher current switch feeds the power to the atomizer for normal usage, and the lower current switch controls of the power to the EoCPI and short detection device
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are systems and apparatuses for a dispensing device with an electromechanical feedback system including safety features and short circuit protection for the electrical cigarette by additional circuitry.