Modular Aerosol Provision Assembly for Custom Features and Easy Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerosol provision devices face challenges in adding functionality without increasing size, weight, and cost, as well as the need for users to select specific features, while existing solutions often require permanent additions that are costly and inconvenient to replace when components become fatigued.
Innovation Solution
The design of modular components that can be operatively connected to an aerosol provision device, providing additional functionality such as enhanced power supply, user interaction, and communication, allowing users to customize their device with desired features without permanently altering the device's size or weight, and enabling easy replacement of worn-out components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional functionality is added to the aerosol provision device, then the device's capabilities are improved, but the device's size, weight, and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a base unit and separate interchangeable modules. Each module provides specific functionality (heating, vaporization, cooling, etc.) and can be independently attached or removed. This segmentation allows users to add only the functionality they need without permanently increasing the base device's weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The device configuration is made dynamic through interchangeable modules that can be attached or removed based on user needs. The system transitions from a static, fixed-configuration device to a dynamic, adaptable system where functionality can be changed without modifying the base device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional functionality is added to the aerosol provision device, then the device's capabilities are improved, but the device's size, weight, and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a base unit and separate interchangeable modules. Each module provides specific functionality (heating, vaporization, cooling, etc.) and can be independently attached or removed. This segmentation allows users to add only the functionality they need without permanently increasing the base device's size.
Solution Approach 2:
Modules are designed to attach to or nest within the base device structure. The modular components can be stored within or alongside the main device when not in use, optimizing space utilization and reducing the overall footprint when full functionality is not required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional functionality is added to the aerosol provision device, then the device's capabilities are improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a base unit and separate interchangeable modules. Each module provides specific functionality (heating, vaporization, cooling, etc.) and can be independently attached or removed. This segmentation allows users to add only the functionality they need without permanently increasing the base device's size.
Solution Approach 2:
The base device is designed with universal connection interfaces that can accommodate multiple different module types. This allows a single base unit to support various functionalities through module attachment, reducing the need to manufacture multiple complete device variants and thereby lowering overall manufacturing costs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If components are permanently added to the device, then functionality is improved, but replacement of worn-out components becomes costly and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a base unit and separate interchangeable modules. Each module provides specific functionality (heating, vaporization, cooling, etc.) and can be independently attached or removed. This segmentation allows users to add only the functionality they need without permanently increasing the base device's size.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables easy replacement of worn-out modules. Instead of repairing or replacing individual components within a permanent structure, users can simply detach the worn module and attach a fresh one, significantly reducing maintenance complexity and cost.
Data Source
AI summary
A module for use with an aerosol provision device is described, the module including a housing and one or more connectors configured to interact with an aerosol provision device or another module. In use, the module is configured to be operatively connected by means of the one or more connectors to the aerosol provision device, either directly or via one or more further modules. The module can include one or more components configured to provide the operatively connected aerosol provision device with additional functionality, in use. There is also provided an aerosol provision device and a system.