Inhaler Tank Authentication Circuit Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing authentication systems for electronic inhalation devices require additional contacts and complex designs, leading to increased material and manufacturing costs, as well as mechanical complexity, due to the need for separate connections for voltage supply and data transfer between the base device and the tank apparatus.
Innovation Solution
Integrating the authentication circuit into existing connections between the base device and the tank apparatus, utilizing supply lines for both voltage supply and data transfer, allowing the authentication circuit to operate independently with reduced mechanical complexity and cost, and enabling the tank apparatus to function in two orientations regardless of polarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an independent authentication device with additional contacts is used, then authentication functionality is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the authentication circuit with the existing voltage supply circuitry in the tank apparatus. The authentication function is integrated into the power supply connections, eliminating the need for separate authentication contacts. This merging of functions reduces the number of contacts required while maintaining authentication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing voltage supply contacts in the tank apparatus are made to serve dual purposes: providing power to the heating apparatus and enabling authentication. By making the supply lines universal for both power delivery and authentication data transfer, the patent eliminates the need for dedicated authentication contacts, thereby reducing device complexity.
2Reliability
If additional contacts are added for authentication, then authentication capability is improved, but material and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication function is merged with the existing voltage supply circuitry, eliminating the need for additional authentication-specific contacts. This reduces the bill of materials and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining full authentication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage supply lines are designed to perform multiple functions: delivering electrical power to the heating apparatus and simultaneously carrying authentication signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate authentication contacts, reducing material costs and manufacturing complexity.
3Reliability
If spring contacts are used for connections, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the authentication connection function with the existing voltage supply connections. By using the same contact points for both power supply and authentication, the design eliminates the need for additional spring contacts and mechanical connection elements, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A tank apparatus for an electronic inhaler, including a receptacle configured to hold a liquid to be vaporized, two supply lines configured to apply an electrical supply voltage to an electrical heater, and an authentication circuit configured to authenticate the tank apparatus. The authentication circuit has two supply terminals configured to apply an electrical supply voltage, and at least one of the supply lines is connectable to at least one of the supply terminals in an electrically conductive manner.