U.S. patent application number 16/105622 was filed with the patent office on 2019-02-14 for apparatus and method for communication and negotiation of charge rate between electronic smoking device and charger.
The applicant listed for this patent is Fontem Holdings 1 B.V.. Invention is credited to James R. Conrey, Adam Hoffman.
Application Number | 20190045845 16/105622 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59714069 |
Filed Date | 2019-02-14 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190045845 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hoffman; Adam ; et
al. |
February 14, 2019 |
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATION AND NEGOTIATION OF CHARGE
RATE BETWEEN ELECTRONIC SMOKING DEVICE AND CHARGER
Abstract
Aspects of the instant disclosure relate to electronic
cigarettes; more particularly, to electronic cigarettes and
chargers. In various embodiments, the e-cigarette includes a power
supply portion comprising a power supply, an atomizer/liquid
reservoir portion comprising a liquid reservoir and an atomizer,
the atomizer operable when connected to the power supply to atomize
liquid stored in the liquid reservoir, and control electronics,
where the control electronics are configured to execute a set of
computer readable instructions to place the electronic smoking
device in an operation mode, a communication mode, and a charge
mode. Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a charger for an
electronic smoking device. Aspects of the disclosure are further
directed to a system comprising an electronic smoking device and a
charger. Aspects of the disclosure are further directed to a method
for charging an electronic smoking device.
Inventors: |
Hoffman; Adam; (San Jose,
CA) ; Conrey; James R.; (San Jose, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Fontem Holdings 1 B.V. |
Amsterdam |
|
NL |
|
|
Family ID: |
59714069 |
Appl. No.: |
16/105622 |
Filed: |
August 20, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15219195 |
Jul 25, 2016 |
10051893 |
|
|
16105622 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02J 7/00 20130101; A24F
47/008 20130101; A61M 15/06 20130101; H05B 3/03 20130101; A61M
2205/35 20130101; H02J 7/0042 20130101; A61M 11/042 20140204; H05B
1/0297 20130101; G06F 1/3296 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A24F 47/00 20060101
A24F047/00; A61M 11/04 20060101 A61M011/04; A61M 15/06 20060101
A61M015/06; H02J 7/00 20060101 H02J007/00; G06F 1/32 20060101
G06F001/32; H05B 3/03 20060101 H05B003/03; H05B 1/02 20060101
H05B001/02 |
Claims
1. An electronic smoking device comprising: a power supply portion
comprising a power supply, an atomizer/liquid reservoir portion
comprising a liquid reservoir and an atomizer, the atomizer
operable when connected to the power supply to atomize liquid
stored in the liquid reservoir, and control electronics, wherein
the control electronics are configured to execute a set of
computer-readable instructions to place the electronic smoking
device in an operation mode, a communication mode, and a charge
mode.
2. The electronic smoking device of claim 1, wherein the control
electronics are further configured to execute a set of
computer-readable instructions to place the electronic smoking
device in a low power sleep mode and a light sleep mode.
3. The electronic smoking device of claim 1, wherein the control
electronics comprise a plurality of connectors, wherein the
plurality of connectors are inside the electronic smoking device
and accessible through a corresponding plurality of apertures.
4. The electronic smoking device of claim 3, wherein the plurality
of connectors further comprises three connectors that are
configured to be electrically connected to a charger.
5. The electronic smoking device of claim 2, wherein the control
electronics executes the communication mode after the electronic
smoking device is electrically coupled to a charger and the
communication mode is configured to determine a charge parameter of
the electronic smoking device.
6. The electronic smoking device of claim 2, wherein the charge
parameter comprises at least one of a voltage and a current.
7. A charger for an electronic smoking device comprising: a first
connection, wherein the first connection further comprises a
plurality of connecting pins for electrically connecting to the
electronic smoking device, a second connection, wherein the second
connection is configured for electrically connecting to a computing
device, charger control electronics, wherein the charger control
electronics comprises a memory, wherein the memory further
comprises a set of computer-readable instructions to place the
charger in an idle mode, a communication mode and a charge
mode.
8. The charger of claim 7, wherein the charger control electronics
are further configured to execute a set of computer-readable
instructions to place the charger in a disconnect mode.
9. The charger of claim 7, wherein the control electronics further
comprise a plurality of connecting pins, wherein a portion of the
plurality of connecting pins extend above a surface of the
charger.
10. The charger of claim 9, wherein the plurality of connecting
pins further comprises three connecting pins that are configured to
be electrically connected to the corresponding connectors on the
electronic smoking device.
11. A system comprising: an electronic smoking device comprising a
battery, an eCig memory storing a first set of computer-readable
instructions, and control electronics configured to execute the
first set of computer-readable instructions to place the electronic
smoking device in a first plurality of modes; and a charger
comprising a charger memory storing a second set of
computer-readable instructions, and a charger processor configured
to execute the second set of computer-readable instructions to
place the charger in a second plurality of modes; wherein each of
the first plurality of modes has at least one complementary mode in
the second plurality of modes, and wherein the control electronics
and the charger processor are configured to communicate and to
negotiate a charge rate for charging the battery when the
electronic smoking device is electrically connected to the
charger.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein the first plurality of modes
comprises an operation mode, a low power sleep mode, a light sleep
mode, a communication mode, and a charge mode: and wherein the
second plurality of modes comprises an idle mode, a disconnect
mode, a communication mode, and a charge mode.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the communication mode is
initiated after the electronic smoking device is electrically
connected to a charger, and wherein the communication mode is
configured to determine a charge parameter of the electronic
smoking device.
14. The system of claim 11, further comprising an external
processor, wherein the external processor is external to the
electronic smoking device and to the charger, and the external
processor is configured to communicate with the control electronics
when the electronic smoking device is electrically connected to the
charger.
15. (canceled)
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first eCig mode of the
electronic smoking device is selected from the group consisting of
a low power sleep mode, a communication mode, an operation mode,
and a light sleep mode, and wherein the second eCig mode is a
charge mode.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the first charger mode of the
charger is selected from a group consisting of an idle mode, a
disconnect mode, and a communication mode, and wherein the second
charger mode is a charge mode.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein the first eCig mode comprises
an eCig sub-mode selected from the group consisting of a diagnostic
mode, a stealth mode, an update mode, a full sleep mode, a travel
sleep mode, and a deep sleep mode.
19. The method of claim 15, wherein the first charger mode
comprises a charger sub-mode selected from the group consisting of
a diagnostic mode, and an update mode.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/219,195, filed 25 Jul. 2016 (the '195 application). The '195
application is hereby incorporated by reference as though fully set
forth herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] a. Field
[0003] The present invention relates generally to electronic
smoking devices and in particular electronic cigarettes.
[0004] b. Background Art
[0005] An electronic smoking device, such as an electronic
cigarette (or e-cigarette or eCig), typically has a housing
accommodating an electric power source (e.g., a single use or
rechargeable battery, electrical plug, or other power source), and
an electrically operable atomizer. The atomizer vaporizes or
atomizes liquid supplied from a reservoir and provides vaporized or
atomized liquid as an aerosol. Control electronics control the
activation of the atomizer. In some electronic cigarettes, an
airflow sensor is provided within the electronic smoking device,
which detects a user puffing on the device (e.g., by sensing an
under-pressure or an airflow pattern through the device). The
airflow sensor indicates or signals the puff to the control
electronics to power up the device and generate vapor. In other
e-cigarettes, a switch is used to power up the e-cigarette to
generate a puff of vapor.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0006] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there
is provided an electronic smoking device comprising a power supply
portion comprising a power supply, an atomizer/liquid reservoir
portion comprising a liquid reservoir and an atomizer, the atomizer
operable when connected to the power supply to atomize liquid
stored in the liquid reservoir, and control electronics, wherein
the control electronics are configured to execute a set of
computer-readable instructions to place the electronic smoking
device in an operation mode, a communication mode, and a charge
mode.
[0007] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention
there is provided a charger for an electronic smoking device
comprising a first connection, wherein the first connection further
comprises a plurality of connecting pins for electrically
connecting to the electronic smoking device, a second connection,
wherein the second connection is configured for electrically
connecting to a computing device, charger control electronics,
wherein the charger control electronics comprises a memory, wherein
the memory further comprises a set of computer-readable
instructions to place the charger in an idle mode, a communication
mode and a charge mode.
[0008] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention
there is provided a system comprising an electronic smoking device
comprising a battery, an eCig memory storing a first set of
computer-readable instructions, and control electronics configured
to execute the first set of computer-readable instructions to place
the electronic smoking device in a first plurality of modes; and a
charger comprising a charger memory storing a second set of
computer-readable instructions, and a charger processor configured
to execute the second set of computer-readable instructions to
place the charger in a second plurality of modes; wherein each of
the first plurality of modes has at least one complementary mode in
the second plurality of modes, and wherein the control electronics
and the charger processor are configured to communicate and to
negotiate a charge rate for charging the battery when the
electronic smoking device is electrically connected to the
charger.
[0009] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present
invention there is provided a method for charging an electronic
smoking device comprising connecting the electronic smoking device
to a charger, wherein control electronics of the electronic smoking
device are in a first eCig mode and wherein a charger processor of
the charger is in a first charger mode, switching the control
electronics from the first eCig mode to a second eCig mode,
switching the charger processor from the first charger mode to a
second charger mode, negotiating, between the control electronics
and the charger processor, while the electronic smoking device is
in the second eCig mode, and while a charge rate for charging a
battery of the electronic smoking device, the charger is in the
second charger mode, and charging the battery at the negotiated
charge rate.
[0010] The characteristics, features and advantages of these
embodiments and the manner in which they are obtained as described
above, will become more apparent and be more clearly understood in
connection with the following description of exemplary embodiments,
which are explained with reference to the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] In the drawings, the same element numbers indicate the same
elements in each of the views:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of an
exemplary e-cigarette.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of an e-cigarette,
consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 3A is an isometric side and top view of a charger for
the e-cigarette shown in FIG. 2, consistent with various aspects of
the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 3B is a top, cross-sectional view of the charger shown
in FIG. 3A, taken along line B-B of FIG. 3A, consistent with
various aspects of the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 3C is a side, cross-sectional view of the charger shown
in FIGS. 3A and 3B, taken along line C-C of FIG. 3B, consistent
with various aspects of the present disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a state diagram that shows exemplary modes for an
e-cigarette, consistent with various aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a state diagram that shows exemplary modes for the
charger for the e-cigarette of FIG. 2, consistent with various
aspects of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a chart that shows exemplary times that the
e-cigarette can be turned on and turned off while in the light
sleep mode, consistent with various aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating data communication
pathways between an exemplary e-cigarette and a processor,
consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0021] Throughout the following, an electronic smoking device will
be exemplarily described with reference to an e-cigarette. As is
shown in FIG. 1, an e-cigarette 10 typically has a housing
comprising a cylindrical hollow tube having an end cap 12. The
cylindrical hollow tube may be a single-piece or a multiple-piece
tube. In FIG. 1, the cylindrical hollow tube is shown as a
two-piece structure having a power supply portion 14 and an
atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16. Together the power supply
portion 14 and the atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16 form a
cylindrical tube which can be approximately the same size and shape
as a conventional cigarette, typically about 100 mm with a 7.5 mm
diameter, although lengths may range from 70 to 150 or 180 mm, and
diameters from 5 to 28 mm.
[0022] The power supply portion 14 and atomizer/liquid reservoir
portion 16 are typically made of metal (e.g., steel or aluminum, or
of hardwearing plastic) and act together with the end cap 12 to
provide a housing to contain the components of the e-cigarette 10.
The power supply portion 14 and the atomizer/liquid reservoir
portion 16 may be configured to fit together by, for example, a
friction push fit, a snap fit, a bayonet attachment, a magnetic
fit, or screw threads. The end cap 12 is provided at the front end
of the power supply portion 14. The end cap 12 may be made from
translucent plastic or other translucent material to allow a
light-emitting diode (LED) 18 positioned near the end cap to emit
light through the end cap. Alternatively, the end cap may be made
of metal or other materials that do not allow light to pass.
[0023] An air inlet may be provided in the end cap, at the edge of
the inlet next to the cylindrical hollow tube, anywhere along the
length of the cylindrical hollow tube, or at the connection of the
power supply portion 14 and the atomizer/liquid reservoir portion
16. FIG. 1 shows a pair of air inlets 20 provided at the
intersection between the power supply portion 14 and the
atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16.
[0024] A power supply, preferably a battery 22, the LED 18, control
electronics 24 and, optionally, an airflow sensor 26 are provided
within the cylindrical hollow tube power supply portion 14. The
battery 22 is electrically connected to the control electronics 24,
which are electrically connected to the LED 18 and the airflow
sensor 26. In this example, the LED 18 is at the front end of the
power supply portion 14, adjacent to the end cap 12; and the
control electronics 24 and airflow sensor 26 are provided in the
central cavity at the other end of the battery 22 adjacent the
atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16.
[0025] The airflow sensor 26 acts as a puff detector, detecting a
user puffing or sucking on the atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16
of the e-cigarette 10. The airflow sensor 26 can be any suitable
sensor for detecting changes in airflow or air pressure, such as a
microphone switch including a deformable membrane which is caused
to move by variations in air pressure. Alternatively, the sensor
may be, for example, a Hall element or an electro-mechanical
sensor.
[0026] The control electronics 24 are also connected to an atomizer
28. In the example shown, the atomizer 28 includes a heating coil
30 which is wrapped around a wick 32 extending across a central
passage 34 of the atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16. The central
passage 34 may, for example, be defined by one or more walls of the
liquid reservoir and/or one or more walls of the atomizer/liquid
reservoir portion 16 of the e-cigarette 10. The coil 30 may be
positioned anywhere in the atomizer 28 and may be transverse or
parallel to a longitudinal axis of a cylindrical liquid reservoir
36. The wick 32 and heating coil 30 do not completely block the
central passage 34. Rather an air gap is provided on either side of
the heating coil 30 enabling air to flow past the heating coil 30
and the wick 32. The atomizer may alternatively use other forms of
heating elements, such as ceramic heaters, or fiber or mesh
material heaters. Nonresistance heating elements such as sonic,
piezo, and jet spray may also be used in the atomizer in place of
the heating coil.
[0027] The central passage 34 is surrounded by the cylindrical
liquid reservoir 36 with the ends of the wick 32 abutting or
extending into the liquid reservoir 36. The wick 32 may be a porous
material such as a bundle of fiberglass fibers or cotton or bamboo
yarn, with liquid in the liquid reservoir 36 drawn by capillary
action from the ends of the wick 32 towards the central portion of
the wick 32 encircled by the heating coil 30.
[0028] The liquid reservoir 36 may alternatively include wadding
(not shown in FIG. 1) soaked in liquid which encircles the central
passage 34 with the ends of the wick 32 abutting the wadding. In
other embodiments, the liquid reservoir may comprise a toroidal
cavity arranged to be filled with liquid and with the ends of the
wick 32 extending into the toroidal cavity.
[0029] An air inhalation port 38 is provided at the back end of the
atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16 remote from the end cap 12.
The inhalation port 38 may be formed from the cylindrical hollow
tube atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16 or may be formed in an
end cap.
[0030] In use, a user sucks on the e-cigarette 10. This causes air
to be drawn into the e-cigarette 10 via one or more air inlets,
such as air inlets 20, and to be drawn through the central passage
34 towards the air inhalation port 38. The change in air pressure
which arises is detected by the airflow sensor 26, which generates
an electrical signal that is passed to the control electronics 24.
In response to the signal, the control electronics 24 activate the
heating coil 30, which causes liquid present in the wick 32 to be
vaporized creating an aerosol (which may comprise gaseous and
liquid components) within the central passage 34. As the user
continues to suck on the e-cigarette 10, this aerosol is drawn
through the central passage 34 and inhaled by the user. At the same
time, the control electronics 24 also activate the LED 18 causing
the LED 18 to light up, which is visible via the translucent end
cap 12. Activation of the LED may mimic the appearance of a glowing
ember at the end of a conventional cigarette. As liquid present in
the wick 32 is converted into an aerosol, more liquid is drawn into
the wick 32 from the liquid reservoir 36 by capillary action and
thus is available to be converted into an aerosol through
subsequent activation of the heating coil 30.
[0031] Some e-cigarette are intended to be disposable and the
electric power in the battery 22 is intended to be sufficient to
vaporize the liquid contained within the liquid reservoir 36, after
which the e-cigarette 10 is thrown away. In other embodiments, the
battery 22 is rechargeable and the liquid reservoir 36 is
refillable. In the cases where the liquid reservoir 36 is a
toroidal cavity, this may be achieved by refilling the liquid
reservoir 36 via a refill port (not shown in FIG. 1). In other
embodiments, the atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16 of the
e-cigarette 10 is detachable from the power supply portion 14 and a
new atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16 can be fitted with a new
liquid reservoir 36 thereby replenishing the supply of liquid. In
some cases, replacing the liquid reservoir 36 may involve
replacement of the heating coil 30 and the wick 32 along with the
replacement of the liquid reservoir 36. A replaceable unit
comprising the atomizer 28 and the liquid reservoir 36 may be
referred to as a cartomizer.
[0032] The new liquid reservoir may be in the form of a cartridge
(not shown in FIG. 1) defining a passage (or multiple passages)
through which a user inhales aerosol. In other embodiments, the
aerosol may flow around the exterior of the cartridge to the air
inhalation port 38.
[0033] Of course, in addition to the above description of the
structure and function of a typical e-cigarette 10, variations also
exist. For example, the LED 18 may be omitted. The airflow sensor
26 may be placed, for example, adjacent to the end cap 12 rather
than in the middle of the e-cigarette. The airflow sensor 26 may be
replaced by, or supplemented with, a switch which enables a user to
activate the e-cigarette manually rather than in response to the
detection of a change in airflow or air pressure.
[0034] Different types of atomizers may be used. Thus, for example,
the atomizer may have a heating coil in a cavity in the interior of
a porous body soaked in liquid. In this design, aerosol is
generated by evaporating the liquid within the porous body either
by activation of the coil heating the porous body or alternatively
by the heated air passing over or through the porous body.
Alternatively the atomizer may use a piezoelectric atomizer to
create an aerosol either in combination or in the absence of a
heater.
[0035] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of an e-cigarette,
consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure. As shown
in FIG. 2, the e-cigarette 10 can include a battery 22 and a
controller circuitry 40. Electrical contact apertures 42.sub.A-C
can be located on the e-cigarette 10. Electrical contacts or
connectors 44.sub.A-C can be electrically coupled with the
controller circuitry 40, and extend through at least a portion of
the electrical contact apertures 42.sub.A-C. As discussed in more
detail below, the electrical connectors 44.sub.A-C facilitate
electrical communication between the controller circuitry 40 and
external circuitry, as well as charging of the battery 22 by
transmitting a current to the battery 22 from an external power
source (e.g., external battery, charger, electronic device, among
others).
[0036] The e-cigarette 10 can utilize software, hardware, firmware,
and/or logic to perform a number of functions described herein. The
e-cigarette 10 can include a combination of hardware and
instructions to share information. The hardware, for example can
include the controller circuitry 40 and/or a memory (not shown)
(e.g., non-transitory computer-readable medium (CRM) database,
etc.). The memory, as used herein, can include a number of
processors capable of executing instructions stored by the memory
resource. The memory can be integrated in a single device or
distributed across multiple devices. The instructions (e.g.,
computer-readable instructions) can include instructions stored on
the memory and executable by the memory for providing control over
the e-cigarette 10 and/or performing various steps discussed in
relation to FIGS. 4 and 5, in an example.
[0037] FIGS. 3A-C are a drawings that shows an exemplary embodiment
of the charger for charging a battery of the e-cigarette. FIG. 3A
is an isometric side and top view of a charger for the e-cigarette
shown in FIG. 2, consistent with various aspects of the present
disclosure. FIG. 3B is a top, cross-sectional view of the charger
shown in FIG. 3A, taken along line B-B of FIG. 3A, consistent with
various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 3C is a side,
cross-sectional view of the charger shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, taken
along line C-C of FIG. 3B, consistent with various aspects of the
present disclosure.
[0038] A plurality of connecting pins 48.sub.A-C can be configured
to electrically connect to a plurality of connectors 44.sub.A-C in
the e-cigarette 10. As shown in an exemplary embodiment in FIGS.
3A-C, the charger 46 can have three connecting pins 48.sub.A-C. The
number of connectors 44.sub.A-C/connecting pins 48.sub.A-C can
range from, for example, 2-20. The connecting pins 48.sub.A-C can
have, for example a round cross-section and be cylindrically
shaped. Other embodiments can use different sizes or shapes for the
connecting pins (e.g., one round, one square, smaller or larger
diameter and/or length, etc.) to aid with the desired configuration
of the connection between the e-cigarette 10 and the charger
46.
[0039] The three connecting pins 48.sub.A-C can be used to connect
with the corresponding connectors 44.sub.A-C in the e-cigarette 10
for charging the battery 22 and to facilitate signals or messages
between the e-cigarette 10 and the charger 46. For example, a
connecting pin 48.sub.C can be connected to a ground and a
connecting pin 48.sub.B can be used for transmitting current from
to a charging circuit, and a connecting pin 48.sub.A can be used
for sending a transmission of one or more signals or messages from
the charger 46 to the e-cigarette 10 (e.g., sending a charge
message, or a disconnect message, etc.). The connecting pin
48.sub.B can, in some embodiments, be used to by the e-cigarette 10
to receive a signal or transmission from the charger 46 when the
e-cigarette 10 is in the communication mode (and not in the
charging mode). The signal going through the connector 48.sub.B can
be, for example, a high or a low signal. In some embodiments, the
high and/or low signals can be used to trigger a switch between
modes described in greater detail below.
[0040] In other embodiments, the arrangement/order of the
connectors/connecting pins can be varied (e.g.,
connector/connecting pin 44.sub.A/48.sub.A is ground,
connector/connecting pin 44.sub.B/48.sub.B is hot,
connector/connecting pin 44.sub.C/48.sub.C is sending/receiving, or
connector 44.sub.A/48.sub.A is hot, connector/connecting pin
44.sub.B/48.sub.B is ground, and connector/connecting pin
44.sub.C/48.sub.C is for sending/receiving, etc.). Additional
connectors/connecting pins could be used (e.g., four
connectors/connecting pins) to permit dedicated paths for sending
and receiving signals. However, due to space constraints, a single
connector that alternates between acting as the path that can send
and receive signals can reduce the size of space needed in the
e-cigarette 10 for the connectors.
[0041] The connectors/connecting pins can also be arranged in a
configuration to prevent reversing a connection between the
e-cigarette 10 and the charger 46. For example, the spacing of the
connectors/connecting pins can vary so that the charger 46 only
connects to the e-cigarette 10 in one configuration. For example, a
distance between connectors 44.sub.A and 44.sub.B can be different
from the distance between connectors 44.sub.B and 44.sub.C. Other
embodiments can use different sizes and/or different shapes for the
connectors/connecting pins (e.g., one round, one square, etc.) to
aid with the desired configuration of the connection between the
e-cigarette 10 and the charger 46.
[0042] The window 54 can facilitate viewing, by a user, a display
or a light on the e-cigarette 10 that is located to correspond with
the window 54 when the e-cigarette 10 is connected with the charger
46. The window 54 can also be located to facilitate viewing a logo
or other marking on the e-cigarette 10 when the e-cigarette 10 is
connected with the charger 46. One or more windows 54 can be
included on the charger 46 and located at any suitable location.
FIG. 3A shows an exemplary embodiment of the charger 46 with two
windows 54.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 3A, the charger 46 can be configured to
electrically connect with the e-cigarette 10 to charge the battery
22 or to connect the e-cigarette 10 to, for example, a PC/computing
device or some other processor using the charger 46 as a bridge.
When acting as the bridge between the PC/mobile computing device
and the e-cigarette 10, the charger 46 can translate the
information or data going between the PC/computing device and the
e-cigarette 10 to facilitate the exchange. In the bridging
scenario, the charger 46 does not edit or change the data. The
PC/mobile computing device are exemplary embodiments of processors
that can be connected to the charger 46. Other embodiments can
include, for example, a mobile phone (e.g., a "smart" phone),
laptop or tablet computer or other similar device.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 3B, the charger 46 can include, for
example, three connecting pins 48.sub.A-C, a charger control
electronics 50, a charger memory 52. A window 54 (not marked in
FIG. 3B) is shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C. The charger control
electronics 50 can be electrically connected to a wire (not shown).
The wire can also be connected to a connector (not shown). The
connector can be any suitable connector including, for example, a
universal serial bus (USB) connector.
[0045] The charger control electronics 50 can include a charger
memory 52 and a charger processor (not shown). The charger 46 can
be a synchronous state machine. The charger 46 can include one or
more circuits in, for example, the charger control electronics 50.
The one or more circuits can be digital circuits that allow the
charger processor of the charger 46 to be in various states or
modes. The states or modes of the charger processor can include,
for example, idle, communication, charging, disconnect, or other
modes. Any of the states or modes can include one or more
sub-modes. For example, the communication mode can include a
diagnostic sub-mode and an update sub-mode. The charger modes are
described in greater detail below.
[0046] The charger control electronics 50 can collect data from the
e-cigarette 10 and the charger memory 52 can store the collected
data. For example, the charger control electronics 50 can collect
data about the last several batteries and/or atomizer/fluid
reservoirs 16 that were connected to the charger 46 and the number
of hours the e-cigarette 10 has been in use.
[0047] The charger 46 can utilize software, hardware, firmware,
and/or logic to perform a number of functions described herein. The
charger 46 can include a combination of hardware and instructions
to share information. The hardware, for example can include the
control electronics 50 and/or the charger memory 52 (e.g.,
non-transitory computer-readable medium (CRM) database, etc.). The
charger memory 52, as used herein, can include a number of
processors capable of executing instructions stored by the memory
resource. The charger memory 52 can be integrated in a single
device or distributed across multiple devices. The instructions
(e.g., computer-readable instructions) can include instructions
stored on the charger memory 52 and executable by the charger
processor and/or the charger memory 52 for providing control over
the charger 46 and/or performing various steps discussed in
relation to FIGS. 4 and 5, in an example.
[0048] In some embodiments, the charger 46 can include a wireless
transmitter/receiver (not shown) to facilitate communication
between the charger 46/e-cigarette 10 and a PC/mobile computing
device. This can include the use of Bluetooth technology or other
wireless protocols.
[0049] The e-cigarette 10 can be a synchronous state machine. The
e-cigarette 10 can include one or more circuits in, for example,
the control electronics 24. The one or more circuits can be digital
circuits that allow the e-cigarette 10 to be in various states or
modes. The states or modes of the e-cigarette 10 can include, for
example, operation, charging, lower power sleep, light sleep, idle,
disconnected, communication or other modes. Any of the states or
modes can include one or more sub-modes. For example, the
communication mode can include a diagnostic sub-mode and an update
sub-mode.
[0050] An e-cigarette and a charger can be synchronous state
machines. The e-cigarette and charger can each include one or more
circuits. The one or more circuits can be digital circuits that
allow the e-cigarette and the charger to be in various states or
modes. The e-cigarette can synchronize with other devices (e.g.,
the charger, a case, etc.) and the charger can synchronize with
other devices (e.g., the e-cigarette).
[0051] FIG. 4 is a state diagram that shows exemplary modes for an
e-cigarette, consistent with various aspects of the present
disclosure. The modes 60 of the e-cigarette 10 can include a low
power sleep mode 62, a communication mode 64, a charge mode 66, an
operation mode 68, and a light sleep mode 70. In some embodiments,
the low power sleep mode 62 can be the default mode for the
e-cigarette 10 in order to maximize battery life.
[0052] The low power sleep mode 62 can maximize an operating time
of the battery 22 in the e-cigarette 10 by, for example, limiting
power used during various processes. For example, the airflow
sensor 26 can be turned off to conserve power. While in the low
power sleep mode 62, the e-cigarette 10 cannot be used by a user
(e.g., no puffs are possible). In some embodiments, the e-cigarette
10 can be in low power sleep mode 62 as a default mode and various
actions and/or events can trigger a change in mode from the low
power sleep mode 62 to a different mode.
[0053] For example, the low power sleep mode 62 can start when the
atomizer/liquid reservoir 16 is disconnected from the e-cigarette
10 which is represented by connector link 72 in FIG. 4. As shown in
FIG. 4, changes between some modes 60 (e.g., from the operation
mode 68 to the communication mode 64, or from the charge mode 66
the communication mode 64, etc.) can require the e-cigarette 10 to
transition through the low power sleep mode 62. Other
configurations are possible for the arrangement of modes 60 in the
synchronous machine arrangement. For example, in other embodiments,
the communication mode 64 can be the transitional mode (instead of
the lower power sleep mode 62 shown as in FIG. 2).
[0054] The e-cigarette 10 can be operated by a user in an operation
mode 68. The operation mode 68 can be activated when a user uses
the e-cigarette 10 (e.g., sucks/puffs on the e-cigarette 10). The
operation mode 68 can also be trigged by, for example, connecting
the atomizer/liquid reservoir 16 to the e-cigarette 10 (represented
by connector link 74) as a user may intend to use the e-cigarette
10 after the connection (e.g., puff right after inserting a
cartridge or connecting the atomizer/liquid reservoir 16).
[0055] The operation mode 68 can cause the e-cigarette 10 to, for
example, activate the airflow sensor 26 during a puff causing the
heating coil 30 to heat. In some embodiments, when the
atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16 is connected the e-cigarette
10 can switch from the low power sleep mode 62 to the operation
mode 68. In other embodiments, when the atomizer/liquid reservoir
26, for example, is disconnected from the e-cigarette 10, the
e-cigarette 10 can switch into the low power sleep mode 62.
[0056] During the operation mode 68, the e-cigarette 10 can
periodically check for use (e.g., detect puffs by a user). As the
frequency of use decreases, the frequency of checks for use can
also decrease. For example, while in the operation mode 68, the
e-cigarette 10 can check for use every 50 ms, and after 4 minutes
of no use (e.g., no puffs by user) the e-cigarette 10 can increase
the time between checks to four minutes.
[0057] The operation mode 68 can also have various sub-modes. For
example, a stealth mode could vary one or more features of the
e-cigarette 10 to minimize the visibility or other
characteristic/feature of the e-cigarette 10. For example, the
stealth mode could reduce or disable light from an LED 18, reduce
power output so the heater coil 30 is a lower temperature which can
cause the e-cigarette 10 to generate less vapour during use.
[0058] In some embodiments, the e-cigarette 10 can transition from
the operation mode 68 to the light sleep mode 70 which can be
represented by connector link 76 in FIG. 4. Similar to the low
power sleep mode 62, the light sleep mode 70 can also reduce power
usage of the e-cigarette to maximize battery life. In the light
sleep mode 70 the airflow sensor 26 is still active but the
e-cigarette 10 is in a reduced polling mode where the control
electronics 24 check for usage less frequently compared to the
operation mode 68. This allows the e-cigarette 10 to transition
from the light sleep mode 70 to the operation mode 68 (represented
by a connector line 76) in a shorter amount of time compared to
transitioning from the low power sleep mode 62 to the operation
mode 68.
[0059] In some embodiments, the power usage of the e-cigarette 10
while in the light sleep mode 70 can be equal to the power
consumption of the e-cigarette 10 while in the low power sleep mode
62. In other embodiments, one of the modes could use less power
(e.g., the low power sleep mode 62 could use less power than the
light sleep mode 70 or the low power sleep mode 62 could use more
power than the light sleep mode 70).
[0060] The low power sleep mode 62 can have various different
sub-modes. For example, the e-cigarette 10 can be in a full sleep
mode, a travel sleep mode, or a deep sleep mode. The full sleep
mode can occur when the e-cigarette 10 is, for example, connected
to a charger that is connected to a power supply and the battery is
fully charged. The travel sleep mode can be, for example, while the
e-cigarette 10 is connected to a charger that is not connected to a
power supply. The deep sleep mode can occur, for example, when the
e-cigarette 10 does not have the atomizer/liquid reservoir 16
connected (e.g., no puffs are possible) and the e-cigarette 10 is
not connected to a charger. All sleep modes effectively reduce the
power consumption (e.g., to a lowest possible level).
[0061] In some embodiments, the e-cigarette 10 can include a
communication mode 64 as seen in FIG. 4. The communication mode 64
can be triggered by, for example, connecting the e-cigarette 10 to
a charger 46 (represented by connector link 80). While in the
communication mode 64, the e-cigarette 10 can detect the charger 46
and announce itself by sending a first signal or message to the
charger 46 (e.g., passively or actively). In response, the charger
46 can send a second signal to the e-cigarette 10, acknowledging
the announcement. The second signal can trigger the start of the
communication mode 64. The communication mode 64 can end when the
e-cigarette 10 receives, for example, a sleep message from the
control electronics 24 or when the e-cigarette 10 switches to the
charge mode 66. The communication mode 64 can end and the
e-cigarette 10 can transition to the low power sleep mode 62
(represented by connector link 82) or the e-cigarette 10 can
transition to the charge mode 66 (represented by connector link
84).
[0062] The sleep message can be generated by, for example,
disconnecting the e-cigarette 10 from the charger 46. In another
embodiment, if the e-cigarette 10 is connected to a charger 46 that
is not connected to an external power source (e.g., external
battery, charger, electronic device, connected to an AC outlet
among others) the e-cigarette 10 can return and/or stay in the low
power sleep mode 62 or the light sleep mode 70. The sleep message
can cause the e-cigarette 10 to change from the charger mode 66 to
the low power sleep mode 62 after the battery 22 is at a maximum
charge. If the e-cigarette 10 is in the communication mode 64 and
connected to the charger 46, the charger can also be in the
communication mode 64.
[0063] When the e-cigarette 10 is in the communication mode 64 and
connected to the charger 46, a charge message can cause the
e-cigarette 10 switch from the communication mode 64 to the charge
mode 66 and begin charging the battery 22. The e-cigarette 10 can
continue charging the battery 22 until, for example, the charger 46
is disconnected or the e-cigarette 10 attains a full charge on a
battery 22. If the charger 46 is disconnected from the e-cigarette
10 or the battery 22 has a full charge the e-cigarette 10 can
switch from the charge mode 66 to the low power sleep mode 62.
[0064] As discussed above, in some embodiments, the e-cigarette 10
can be disposable. For disposable e-cigarettes the battery may not
be rechargeable. In some embodiments, the disposable e-cigarette
may not have low power modes. In this embodiment, the low power
sleep and light sleep modes may not exist but other modes discussed
herein may still be used and other additional modes may be
included.
[0065] In some embodiments, the e-cigarette 10 can periodically
change from a low power mode (e.g., the low power sleep mode 62 or
the light sleep mode 70) to another mode. This periodic change can
be thought of as "waking" from the low power mode to, for example,
perform a task and/or monitor an operation, system or hardware. The
periodic waking can control the various sleep modes (e.g., full
sleep, travel sleep, and deep sleep) and can ensure the control
electronics 24 is operating properly. For example, the e-cigarette
10 can wake to run a diagnostic operation in the diagnostic
sub-mode of the communication mode 64. The periodicity of the
waking can be controlled by a timer or triggered by some other
event (e.g., connecting the e-cigarette 10 to the charger 46, the
atomizer/liquid reservoir 16, a carry case, etc.). Connecting or
disconnecting the e-cigarette 10 from an accessory or other device
(e.g., a PC/computing device, a mobile phone, or other processor)
can change the periodicity of the waking.
[0066] The communication mode 64 can include various other
sub-modes. For example, after the e-cigarette 10 is in the
communication mode 64, a diagnostic mode or an update mode can be
started. The diagnostic mode can be used to diagnose various parts
of the e-cigarette 10. For example, one more tests can be run on
the constituent systems of the e-cigarette 10 (e.g., the control
electronics 24, the battery 22, the atomizer/liquid reservoir
portion 16, etc.). The diagnostic mode can also allow an
e-cigarette memory to be collected (e.g., downloaded to a PC/mobile
computing device, uploaded to a web site, etc.). Information stored
in the e-cigarette memory can include, for example, the serial
number of the e-cigarette 10, the serial number of the
atomizer/liquid reservoir portion 16, or other information. The
update mode can be used to, for example, provide firmware and/or
software updates to the e-cigarette 10.
[0067] If the e-cigarette 10 is in the communication mode 64, the
charger 46 can also synchronize to be in the communication mode 64
(shown in FIG. 3). Similarly, if the e-cigarette 10 is in the
charge mode 66, the charger 46 can also synchronize to be a charge
mode (discussed in more detail below). Other combinations of modes
are possible when the e-cigarette 10 and the charger 46 synchronize
(e.g., if the e-cigarette is in the lower power sleep mode 62, and
connected to the charger 46, the charger 46 can be in an idle mode
(discussed in more detail below)).
[0068] In some embodiments, the charger 46 can include the control
electronics 50 that includes, for example, a memory 52. The charger
memory 52 can collect data from the e-cigarette 10. For example,
the charger memory 52 can collect data about the last several
batteries that were connected to the charger 46 and the number of
hours the e-cigarette 10 has been in use.
[0069] FIG. 5 is a state diagram that shows exemplary modes for the
charger for the e-cigarette of FIG. 2, consistent with various
aspects of the present disclosure. The charger 46 can have various
modes 90, including an idle mode 92, a communication mode 94, a
charge mode 96, and a disconnect mode 98. The communication mode 94
and the charge mode 96 are described herein. The idle mode 92 can
reduce energy used by the battery 22 by, for example, turning down
a processor clock in the control electronics 24 and turning off
peripheral electronics (e.g., the LED 18) and any other processes
not necessary.
[0070] The charger 46 can be in an idle mode 92. In some
embodiments, the idle mode 92 can be the default mode for the
charger 46. If the charger 46 is not connected to the e-cigarette
10 or a PC/mobile computing device the charger 46 can be in the
idle mode 92. If the e-cigarette 10 is initially connected to the
charger 46 and then disconnected from the charger 46, the charger
46 can switch to the idle mode 92.
[0071] Connecting the e-cigarette 10 to the charger 46 can cause
the charger 46 to switch from the idle mode 92 to the communication
mode 94 (represented by connector link 100 in FIG. 5). Conversely,
disconnecting the e-cigarette 10 from the charger 46 can cause the
charger 46 to switch from the communication mode 94 to the idle
mode 92 (represented by connector link 102 in FIG. 5).
[0072] In some embodiments, the charger 46 can determine or
negotiate a rate of charging of the battery 22 in the e-cigarette
10. The negotiation can occur when the charger 46 and the
e-cigarette 10 are connected and both in communication mode (e.g.,
the e-cigarette 10 in communication mode 64 and the charger 46 in
communication mode 94). The charge message can be sent by the
charger 46 to the e-cigarette 10. In response, the e-cigarette 10
can send a response signal back to the charger 46. The charger 46
can then determine a rate of charging for the battery 22.
[0073] The rate of charging can vary for a number of reasons. For
example, connecting the e-cigarette 10 to a PC/mobile computing
device via a USB connection (or other similar connection) may not
allow the same charge rate compared to using a charger 46 with a
charge block that accepts a charge block (e.g., as a USB plug) and
also fits into electrical outlets (e.g., to metal prongs that fit
into and electrical outlet) or other adapter connected to a typical
household AC circuit (e.g., 120 v/60 Hz or 220V/50 Hz) or other
external power source (e.g., external battery, etc.). As an
example, the charger 46 can be rated for 150-500 mA. In some
embodiments, a higher charge rate can be negotiated (e.g., 1000 mA)
depending on the properties of the battery 22 and the type of
connection supplying electricity to the charger 46.
[0074] The charger 46 can switch from the communication mode 94 to
the charge mode 96 (represented by connector link 104 in FIG. 5)
after the charge message/reply message are sent between the
e-cigarette 10 and the charger 46 (e.g., the e-cigarette 10 is in
control of a charge negotiation) and the charge negotiation is
complete. In another embodiment, instead of the charge message
being sent from the e-cigarette 10 to the charger 46, the charger
46 can send a message to the e-cigarette 10 after the e-cigarette
10 is connected to the charger 46 (e.g., the charger 46 is in
control of the charge negotiation).
[0075] When the e-cigarette 10 has a battery 22 that is fully
charged the e-cigarette can switch to a low power mode (e.g., the
low power sleep mode 62, the light sleep mode 70, etc.) and the
charger 46 can switch from the charge mode 96 to the idle mode 92
(represented by connector link 106 in FIG. 5). If the e-cigarette
10 in the charge mode 66 and is connected to the charger 46, the
charger 46 can also synchronize to be in the charge mode 96.
[0076] The charger 46 can be placed in the disconnect mode 98 by,
for example, disconnecting the charger 46 from the PC/computing
device if the e-cigarette is already connected to the charger 46
(represented by connector link 108 in FIG. 5). The disconnect mode
98 can be ended by connecting the charger 46 to the PC/computing
device (represented by connector link 110 in FIG. 5) if the charger
is not connected to the PC/computing device.
[0077] FIG. 6 is a chart that shows exemplary times that the
e-cigarette can be turned on and turned off while in the light
sleep mode, consistent with various aspects of the present
disclosure. The light sleep mode 70 can reduce energy used by the
battery 22 by, for example, turning down a processor clock and
turning off peripheral electronics and any other processes not
necessary (e.g., the LED 18 etc.). In one example shown in FIG. 6,
the e-cigarette 10 can be turned on for 10 ms and then turned off
for 125 ms. In another embodiment, the e-cigarette 10 can be turned
on for 50 ms and then turned off for 256 ms. Longer periods with
the e-cigarette 10 off can be used in the low power modes (e.g.,
low power sleep mode 62, light sleep mode 70, etc.). The length of
time the e-cigarette 10 is turned off can vary. For example, "on"
times can range between 10-50 ms and "off" times can range between
125-4000 ms depending on the activity of the user with the
e-cigarette 10. In one example, immediately after the e-cigarette
10 is used (e.g., the user sucks/puffs on the e-cigarette 10) a
first off time can be 0 ms. After a first period of time the
e-cigarette 10 can change to a second off time of 128 ms. After a
second period of time the e-cigarette 10 can change to a third off
time of 256 ms. The number of different off times can vary.
[0078] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating data communication
pathways between an exemplary e-cigarette and a processor,
consistent with various aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 7
shows exemplary connections between an e-cigarette 10 and a charger
46 and the charger 46 and a processor 112 (e.g., a PC/computing
device, a mobile phone, a remote server, etc.). A first connection
114 between the e-cigarette 10 and the charger 46 can be, for
example, a serial connection. The serial connection is previously
described above in more detail. A second connection 116 can be
between the charger 46 and a processor 112 (e.g., a personal
computer, a tablet computer, a mobile "smart" phone, or other
similar device). The second connection 116 can be any suitable
electrical connection between the charger 114 and the processor
116.
[0079] The e-cigarette 10 can connect to a charger 46 in order to
charge the battery 22 (see FIG. 1) of the e-cigarette 10. In
addition to this charging function, the charger 46 can exchange
data with the e-cigarette 10. The data exchange can occur, for
example, through a dedicated data line or signals obtained from a
power line connecting the charger 46 and the e-cigarette 10 during
charging. When a data line is used to transfer data between the
e-cigarette 10 and the charger 46, the data line can be a physical
wire connection or a wireless communication. In an embodiment, the
data that can be transferred from the e-cigarette 10 to the charger
46 includes identifying data, such as a serial number, a
calibration parameter, a batch code, a line number, or a barcode
associated with the e-cigarette 10. In another embodiment, the data
that can be transferred from the e-cigarette 10 to the charger 46
includes usage data, such as a number of puffs taken, an average
length of puffs taken, a smoke juice level, a smoke juice flavor,
or a location of use.
[0080] The charger 46 can act as a bridge connection between the
e-cigarette 10 and the processor 112 (e.g., a personal computer
(PC). While acting as the bridge connection between the e-cigarette
10 and the processor 112 the charger 46 does not add to or change
the content of the data or information transmitted between the
e-cigarette 10 and the processor 112. The processor 112 can be, for
example, an external processor that is external to the e-cigarette
10 and to the charger 46. The external processor can be configured
to communicate with the control electronics 24 and the charger
control electronics 50 when the e-cigarette 10 is electrically
connected to the charger 46.
[0081] The serial connection can be used to, for example, connect
the e-cigarette 10 to the charger 46 to, for example, negotiate the
charge rate of the e-cigarette 10 by the charger 46 or transmit
signals or messages between the e-cigarette 10 and the charger 46
as described herein.
[0082] The second connection 116 can be used to, for example,
update firmware on the e-cigarette 10 and/or the charger 46. The
firmware can be transmitted from the memory that is part of the
processor 112 or from a remote server, passing through the charger
46, to the e-cigarette 10. In other embodiments, the second
connection 116 can permit the exchange of data (e.g., diagnostic
data) between the processor 112 and the e-cigarette 10. In another
embodiment, the second connection 116 can permit data stored on a
memory device on the e-cigarette 10.
[0083] In summary, various embodiments of the present disclosure
are directed to an electronic smoking device comprising a power
supply portion comprising a power supply, an atomizer/liquid
reservoir portion comprising a liquid reservoir, and an atomizer,
the atomizer operable when connected to the power supply to atomize
liquid stored in the liquid reservoir, and a control electronics,
wherein the control electronics comprise a set of computer-readable
instructions capable of executing an operation mode, a
communication mode and a charge mode. The plurality of modes
further comprise further comprise a low power sleep mode, and a
light sleep mode. The control electronics comprise a plurality of
connectors, wherein the plurality of connectors are inside the
electronic smoking device and accessible through a corresponding
plurality of apertures. The plurality of connectors further
comprises three connectors that are configured to be electrically
connected to a charger. The control electronics execute the
communication mode is after the electronic smoking device is
electrically coupled to a charger and the communication mode is
configured to determine a charge parameter of the electronic
smoking device. The charge parameter comprises at least one of a
voltage and a current.
[0084] Some embodiments of an electronic cigarette charger include
a first connection, wherein the first connection further comprises
a plurality of connecting pins for electrically connecting to the
electronic smoking device, a second connection, wherein the second
connection is configured for electrically connecting to a computing
device, a control electronics, wherein the control electronics
comprises a memory, wherein the memory further comprises a set of
computer-readable instructions capable of executing an idle mode, a
communication mode and a charge mode. The plurality of modes
further comprises a disconnect mode. The control electronics
further comprise a plurality of connecting pins, wherein a portion
of the plurality of connecting pins extend above a surface of the
charger. The plurality of connecting pins further comprises three
connecting pins that are configured to be electrically connected to
the corresponding connectors on the electronic smoking device.
[0085] In various embodiments consistent with the present
disclosure a system can include an electronic smoking device
comprising a battery, an eCig memory storing a first set of
computer-readable instructions, and control electronics configured
to execute the first set of computer-readable instructions to place
the electronic smoking device in a first plurality of modes; and a
charger comprising a charger memory storing a second set of
computer-readable instructions, and a charger processor configured
to execute the second set of computer-readable instructions to
place the charger in a second plurality of modes; wherein each of
the first plurality of modes has at least one complementary mode in
the second plurality of modes, and wherein the control electronics
and the charger processor are configured to communicate and to
negotiate a charge rate for charging the battery when the
electronic smoking device is electrically connected to the charger.
The first plurality of modes comprises an operation mode, a low
power sleep mode, a light sleep mode, a communication mode, and a
charge mode: and wherein the second plurality of modes comprises an
idle mode, a disconnect mode, a communication mode, and a charge
mode. The communication mode is initiated after the electronic
smoking device is electrically connected to a charger, and wherein
the communication mode is configured to determine a charge
parameter of the electronic smoking device. The system can further
comprise an external processor, wherein the external processor is
external to the electronic smoking device and to the charger, and
the external processor is configured to communicate with the
control electronics when the electronic smoking device is
electrically connected to the charger.
[0086] Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a method
of connecting an electronic smoking device to a charger, wherein
the electronic smoking device is in a first mode and the charger is
in a first charger mode, switching from the first mode of the
electronic smoking device to a charging mode, switching from the
first charger mode of the charger to a second charger mode,
negotiating, by the electronic smoking device while in the second
mode, a charge rate for charging a battery of the electronic
smoking device by the charger while in the second mode, charging
the battery at the negotiated charge rate. The first mode of the
electronic smoking device is selected from the group consisting of
a low power sleep mode, a communication mode, an operation mode,
and a light sleep mode and wherein the second mode is a charging
mode. The first charger mode of the charger is selected from a
group consisting of an idle mode, a disconnect mode, and a
communication mode, and wherein the second charger mode is a
charging mode. The first mode further comprises a sub-mode, wherein
the sub-mode is selected from the group consisting of a diagnostic
mode, a stealth mode, an update mode, a full sleep mode, a travel
sleep mode, and a deep sleep mode. The first charger mode further
comprises a sub-mode, wherein the sub-mode is selected from the
group consisting of a diagnostic mode and an update mode.
[0087] It should be noted that the features illustrated in the
drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and features of one
embodiment may be employed with other embodiments as the skilled
artisan would recognize, even if not explicitly stated herein.
Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques may
be omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments of
the disclosure. The examples used herein are intended merely to
facilitate an understanding of ways in which the disclosure may be
practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to
practice the embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, the
examples and embodiments herein should not be construed as limiting
the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, it is noted that like
reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the several
views of the drawings.
[0088] The terms "including," "comprising" and variations thereof,
as used in this disclosure, mean "including, but not limited to,"
unless expressly specified otherwise.
[0089] The terms "a," "an," and "the," as used in this disclosure,
means "one or more," unless expressly specified otherwise.
[0090] Although process steps, method steps, algorithms, or the
like, may be described in a sequential order, such processes,
methods and algorithms may be configured to work in alternate
orders. In other words, any sequence or order of steps that may be
described does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the
steps be performed in that order. The steps of the processes,
methods or algorithms described herein may be performed in any
order practical. Further, some steps may be performed
simultaneously.
[0091] When a single device or article is described herein, it will
be readily apparent that more than one device or article may be
used in place of a single device or article. Similarly, where more
than one device or article is described herein, it will be readily
apparent that a single device or article may be used in place of
the more than one device or article. The functionality or the
features of a device may be alternatively embodied by one or more
other devices which are not explicitly described as having such
functionality or features.
[0092] Although several embodiments have been described above with
a certain degree of particularity, those skilled in the art could
make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without
departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. It is intended
that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the
accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and
not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without
departing from the present teachings. The foregoing description and
following claims are intended to cover all such modifications and
variations.
[0093] Various embodiments are described herein of various
apparatuses, systems, and methods. Numerous specific details are
set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall
structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as
described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying
drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art,
however, that the embodiments may be practiced without such
specific details. In other instances, well known operations,
components, and elements have not been described in detail so as
not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification.
Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the
embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting
examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific
structural and functional details disclosed herein may be
representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the
embodiments, the scope of which is defined solely by the appended
claims.
[0094] Reference throughout the specification to "various
embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "an
embodiment," or the like, means that a particular feature,
structure, or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus,
appearances of the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some
embodiments," "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," or the like,
in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all
referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described
in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in
part, with the features structures, or characteristics of one or
more other embodiments without limitation.
[0095] It will be appreciated that the terms "proximal" and
"distal" may be used throughout the specification with reference to
a clinician manipulating one end of an instrument used to treat a
patient. The term "proximal" refers to the portion of the
instrument closest to the clinician and the term "distal" refers to
the portion located furthest from the clinician. It will be further
appreciated that for conciseness and clarity, spatial terms such as
"vertical," "horizontal," "up," and "down" may be used herein with
respect to the illustrated embodiments. However, surgical
instruments may be used in many orientations and positions, and
these terms are not intended to be limiting and absolute.
[0096] Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in
whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference
herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the
incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions,
statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this
disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as
explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material
incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof,
that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which
conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other
disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to
the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated
material and the existing disclosure material.
[0097] Various embodiments of the present disclosure are directed
to an electronic cigarette battery housing apparatus including a
power supply portion comprising a power supply, an atomizer/liquid
reservoir portion comprising a liquid reservoir and an atomizer,
the atomizer operable when connected to the power supply to atomize
liquid stored in the liquid reservoir, and control electronics,
wherein the control electronics are configured to execute a set of
computer-readable instructions to place the electronic smoking
device in an operation mode, a communication mode, and a charge
mode. The control electronics are further configured to execute a
set of computer-readable instructions to place the electronic
smoking device in a low power sleep mode and a light sleep mode.
The control electronics comprise a plurality of connectors, wherein
the plurality of connectors are inside the electronic smoking
device and accessible through a corresponding plurality of
apertures. The plurality of connectors further comprises three
connectors that are configured to be electrically connected to a
charger. The control electronics executes the communication mode
after the electronic smoking device is electrically coupled to a
charger and the communication mode is configured to determine a
charge parameter of the electronic smoking device. The charge
parameter comprises at least one of a voltage and a current.
[0098] Some embodiments of an electronic cigarette charger include
a first connection, wherein the first connection further comprises
a plurality of connecting pins for electrically connecting to the
electronic smoking device, a second connection, wherein the second
connection is configured for electrically connecting to a computing
device, charger control electronics, wherein the charger control
electronics comprises a memory, wherein the memory further
comprises a set of computer-readable instructions to place the
charger in an idle mode, a communication mode and a charge mode.
The charger control electronics are further configured to execute a
set of computer-readable instructions to place the charger in a
disconnect mode. The control electronics further comprises a
plurality of connecting pins, wherein a portion of the plurality of
connecting pins extend above a surface of the charger. The
plurality of connecting pins further comprises three connecting
pins that are configured to be electrically connected to the
corresponding connectors on the electronic device.
[0099] In various embodiments consistent with the present
disclosure a system can comprise a battery, an eCig memory storing
a first set of computer-readable instructions, and control
electronics configured to execute the first set of
computer-readable instructions to place the electronic smoking
device in a first plurality of modes; and a charger comprising a
charger memory storing a second set of computer-readable
instructions, and a charger processor configured to execute the
second set of computer-readable instructions to place the charger
in a second plurality of modes; wherein each of the first plurality
of modes has at least one complementary mode in the second
plurality of modes, and wherein the control electronics and the
charger processor are configured to communicate and to negotiate a
charge rate for charging the battery when the electronic smoking
device is electrically connected to the charger.
[0100] Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a method
for charging an electronic smoking device comprising connecting the
electronic smoking device to a charger, wherein control electronics
of the electronic smoking device are in a first eCig mode and
wherein a charger processor of the charger is in a first charger
mode, switching the control electronics from the first eCig mode to
a second eCig mode, switching the charger processor from the first
charger mode to a second charger mode, negotiating, between the
control electronics and the charger processor, while the electronic
smoking device is in the second eCig mode, and while a charge rate
for charging a battery of the electronic smoking device, the
charger is in the second charger mode, and charging the battery at
the negotiated charge rate. The first eCig mode of the electronic
smoking device is selected from the group consisting of a low power
sleep mode, a communication mode, an operation mode, and a light
sleep mode, and wherein the second eCig mode is a charge mode. The
first charger mode of the charger is selected from a group
consisting of an idle mode, a disconnect mode, and a communication
mode, and wherein the second charger mode is a charge mode. The
first eCig mode comprises an eCig sub-mode selected from the group
consisting of a diagnostic mode, a stealth mode, an update mode, a
full sleep mode, a travel sleep mode, and a deep sleep mode. The
first charger mode comprises a charger sub-mode selected from the
group consisting of a diagnostic mode, and an update mode.
LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS
[0101] 10 electronic smoking device [0102] 12 end cap [0103] 14
power supply portion [0104] 16 atomizer/liquid reservoir portion
[0105] 18 light emitting diode (LED) [0106] 20 air inlets [0107] 22
battery [0108] 24 control electronics [0109] 26 airflow sensor
[0110] 28 atomizer [0111] 30 heating coil [0112] 32 wick [0113] 34
central passage [0114] 36 liquid reservoir [0115] 38 air inhalation
port [0116] 40 controller circuitry [0117] 42 electrical contact
apertures [0118] 44 electrical contacts (or connectors) [0119] 46
charger [0120] 48 connecting pins [0121] 50 charger control
electronics [0122] 52 charger memory [0123] 54 window [0124] 56
wire [0125] 60 e-cigarette modes [0126] 62 low power sleep mode
[0127] 64 communication mode [0128] 66 charge mode [0129] 68
operation mode [0130] 70 light sleep mode [0131] 72 connector link
from operation mode to low power sleep mode [0132] 74 connector
link from low power sleep mode to operation mode [0133] 76
connector link from operation mode to light sleep mode [0134] 78
connector link from light sleep mode to operation mode [0135] 80
connector link from low power sleep mode to communication mode
[0136] 82 connector link from communication mode to low power sleep
mode [0137] 84 connector link from communication mode to charge
mode [0138] 86 connector link from charge mode to low power sleep
mode [0139] 90 charger modes [0140] 92 idle mode [0141] 94
communication mode [0142] 96 charge mode [0143] 98 disconnect mode
[0144] 100 connector link from idle mode to communication mode
[0145] 102 connector link from communication mode to idle mode
[0146] 104 connector link from communication mode to charge mode
[0147] 106 connector link from charge mode to idle mode [0148] 108
connector link from idle mode to disconnect mode [0149] 110
connector link from disconnect mode to idle mode [0150] 112
processor [0151] 114 first connection [0152] 116 second
connection
* * * * *