RU2846013C2 - Charging device for aerosol-generating devices - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: smoking accessories.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to means for charging aerosol-generating devices, such as charging devices used as a public node for recharging, in particular, simplifying social communication. To this end, the device comprises a charging interface connected during operation to a battery for an aerosol-generating device, an air sensor configured to detect a contaminant, and a controller connected during operation to the charging interface and to the air sensor. Controller is configured to detect a contaminant using an air sensor and activating the air displacement device in response to detection of the contaminant. Charging device can charge several batteries in parallel or simultaneously. Charging device can associate a battery identifier of one or more batteries with a user.

EFFECT: enabling diagnosis and cleaning of aerosol-generating devices during their charging.

15 cl, 6 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to charging devices, such as a public recharging node, capable of charging aerosol generating devices and facilitating social communication.

Aerosol generating devices, such as cartomizer e-cigarettes, are known to be hand-held and use a vaporizable liquid or a heated solid material (which may contain tobacco) to generate an inhalable aerosol. These devices may provide an alternative experience to conventional combustible cigarettes. Some devices may have an appearance and feel similar to conventional cigarettes, which may be familiar, easy to use, portable, and easy to manufacture. Many aerosol generating devices require a power source, such as a battery, to power the aerosol generator to generate the aerosol.

Some aerosol-generating devices may require different maintenance that is unknown to conventional cigarette users. For example, some aerosol-generating devices contain a battery that must be regularly recharged to function properly. During recharging, the aerosol-generating device may not be in use. Conventional cigarette users may experience discomfort due to the lack of interaction with the aerosol-generating device during recharging, which is not required for conventional cigarettes, particularly in public places and social interactions. Additionally, in some social interactions in a group, users may want to use their devices simultaneously (e.g., during a work break or while waiting for public transportation), so multiple users in the group may need to recharge their aerosol-generating devices at the same time.

In general, the present invention relates to a charging device for an aerosol generating device, capable of charging a battery for an aerosol generating device and associating a battery identifier with a user of the aerosol generating device. The charging device can charge several batteries in parallel or simultaneously. The user of the aerosol generating device can also be a user of a mobile device of the user, which can establish a connection with the charging device and establish communication with the charging device by using a communication interface. User data, such as preferences, interests and even music, can be transmitted from the user's mobile device to the charging device and can be used to improve social interaction opportunities for the user, especially in public or public places together with other users, or to provide a more comfortable space around the user.

Various aspects of the present invention relate to a charger for an aerosol generating device. The charger comprises a charging interface operatively connected to a battery for the aerosol generating device. The charger also comprises a communication interface for communicating with a user's mobile device, at least while the battery is connected to the charging interface. The user's mobile device is separate from the battery. The charger further comprises a controller operatively connected to the charging interface and the communication interface. The controller is configured to determine a unique battery identifier corresponding to the battery to provide the controller with the ability to distinguish one battery from other batteries connected to the charging interface. The controller is also configured to establish a connection with the user's mobile device by using the communication interface. The connection is intended to transmit user data. The controller is further configured to associate the battery identifier with the user's mobile device in response to determining the battery identifier and establishing a connection with the user's mobile device.

Various aspects of the present invention relate to a charging device for an aerosol generating device. The charging device comprises a charging interface operatively connected to a battery for the aerosol generating device and at least one other battery for aerosol generating devices of other users. The charging device also comprises a communication interface for communicating with the user's mobile device, at least while the battery is connected to the charging interface. The charging device further comprises a controller operatively connected to the charging interface and the communication interface. The controller is configured to establish a connection with the user's mobile device by using the communication interface, at least when the battery is connected to the charging interface. The connection is intended to transmit user data. The controller is also configured to receive user data from the user's mobile device by using the connection. The controller is further configured to provide social content based on the user data to one or both of the charging interface and the communication interface in order to share with other users whose batteries are connected to the charging interface.

Various aspects of the present invention relate to a charging device for an aerosol-generating device. The charging device comprises a charging interface operatively connected to a battery for the aerosol-generating device. The charging device also comprises an air sensor configured to detect a pollutant. The charging device further comprises a controller operatively connected to the charging interface and the air sensor. The controller is configured to detect the pollutant by using the air sensor. The controller is also configured to activate the air movement device in response to detecting the pollutant.

Various aspects of the present invention relate to a charging device for an aerosol generating device. The charging device comprises a charging interface operatively connected to a battery for the aerosol generating device. The charging device also comprises a cleaning slot for accommodating at least a portion of the aerosol generating device for cleaning, wherein the cleaning slot has an actuatable cleaning element for cleaning the aerosol generating device when at least a portion is placed in the cleaning slot. The charging device further comprises a controller operatively connected to the charging interface and the cleaning element. The controller is configured to activate the cleaning element for cleaning the aerosol generating device. The controller is also configured to establish a connection with the user's mobile device.

In one or more aspects, the controller is operatively connected to a communication interface for communicating with the user's mobile device, at least while the battery is connected to the charging interface. The controller is configured to establish a connection with the user's mobile device by using the communication interface. The connection is intended for transmitting user data. The controller is also configured to associate a battery identifier with the user's mobile device after establishing a connection with the user's mobile device.

In one or more aspects, the user data includes one or more of the following: a user name associated with the user's mobile device, an identifier of the user's mobile device, a maximum battery charge time, one or more battery identifiers associated with the user's mobile device, cleaning data, calendar data, movement data, media data, user preference data, and social content.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to establish a connection using a Bluetooth protocol.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to associate the battery identifier with the user's mobile device based on user data transmitted between the communication interface and the user's mobile device.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to receive a battery identifier by using the charging interface in response to connecting the battery to the charging interface.

In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to send a battery identifier to the user's mobile device by using a communication interface. The controller is also configured to receive a result of determining from the user's mobile device that the battery identifier corresponds to the user's mobile device after sending the battery identifier to the user's mobile device.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to send a battery identifier to any user mobile device connected to the controller to associate the battery with a specific user mobile device.

In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to receive one or more battery identifiers associated with the user's mobile device from the user's mobile device. The controller is also configured to determine whether the battery identifier matches one of the received one or more battery identifiers.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to disconnect from the user's mobile device in response to determining that the battery identifier does not match.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to search for another mobile device of the user in response to determining that the battery identifier does not match.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to be disconnected from the user's mobile device in response to disconnecting the battery from the charging interface.

In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to detect a user action associated with a battery. The controller is also configured to send a battery identifier to the user's mobile device by using a communication interface in response to detecting the user action.

In one or more aspects, the charging interface comprises a screen, and the controller is further configured to generate a display element based on user data received from the user's mobile device and display the display element on the screen.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to modulate the battery charging current based on a maximum battery charging time received from the user's mobile device.

In one or more aspects, the maximum battery charge time is determined in response to one or more of calendar data, movement data, and user preference data.

In one or more aspects, the controller is configured to store a connection between the battery and the user's mobile device. The controller is also configured to search for the user's mobile device by using the communication interface in response to reconnecting the battery to the charging interface.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to send charger data to the user's mobile device by using a communication interface. The charger data includes one or more of the following: battery charge level, time until full battery charge, warning that full battery charge is complete, warning that the battery remains functionally connected to the charging interface in response to upcoming user events, time elapsed since the last cleaning of the aerosol generating device by means of this charger, geographic location of the charger, and maintenance recommendations.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to charge the battery in accordance with one or more of the following: a fast charging mode and a load balancing mode.

In one or more aspects, the controller is operatively coupled to a wireless network for sending a message to the user's mobile device regarding battery charging.

In one or more aspects, the controller is further configured to determine social content based on user data received from the user's mobile device. The controller is also configured to distribute social content to other user mobile devices that have an established connection by using a communication interface.

In one or more aspects, a charging device comprises a housing having a charging interface. The housing further comprises a locking component assignable to one or more users.

In one or more aspects, the charging interface allows a user to lock the battery at the charging interface to prevent others from using the battery.

Advantageously, the use of a charger can transform the problem of several users needing to charge their aerosol generating devices into an opportunity for social interaction. The charger can also provide a personalized recharging experience that can take into account the user's calendar and travel schedule, as well as the user's entertainment preferences. In addition, the charger can improve the ability to socially interact with other users of the charger by exchanging social information with other users. Moreover, the charger can provide convenient cleaning of one or more parts of the aerosol generating device, which can be carried out in combination with charging the battery. In addition, the charger can contribute to a more comfortable environment for the user located near the charger by communicating with one or more environmental control devices remote from the charger. Other advantages will be apparent to a person skilled in the art when using the present invention. The present invention describes the charger in more detail.

All scientific and technical terms used in this document have the meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions provided in this document are intended to facilitate the understanding of certain terms frequently used in this document.

The term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device configured to use an aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the aerosol generating device also comprises an aerosol generator, such as a nebulizer, cartomizer or heater.

The term "aerosol generating substrate" refers to a device or substrate that, when heated, releases volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user. Suitable aerosol generating substrates may comprise a plant-based material. For example, the aerosol generating substrate may comprise tobacco or a tobacco-containing material that contains volatile tobacco aromatic compounds that are released from the aerosol generating substrate when heated. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol generating substrate may comprise a non-tobacco-containing material. The aerosol generating substrate may comprise homogenized plant-based material. The aerosol generating substrate may comprise at least one aerosol forming substance. The aerosol generating substrate may comprise other additives and ingredients, such as flavoring agents. Preferably, the aerosol generating substrate is a liquid at room temperature. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate may be a liquid solution, suspension, dispersion, or the like. Preferably, the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise glycerol, propylene glycol, water, nicotine, and optionally one or more flavoring agents. Preferably, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises nicotine.

The term "tobacco material" refers to a material or substance containing tobacco, including, for example, tobacco blends or flavoured tobacco.

The term "cartomizer" refers to the combination of cartridge and atomizer that is part of an e-cigarette.

The present invention provides a charging device for aerosol generating devices. The charging device can be described as a public recharging node, configured to charge several aerosol generating devices and to facilitate social communication between users of aerosol generating devices.

The aerosol generating device may use or contain an aerosol generating substrate. The aerosol generating substrate may be made of or contained in a cartridge or a heated wand that may be connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device.

The aerosol generator may be operatively connected to the aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol upon activation. In particular, the aerosol generator may be thermally connected to the aerosol generating substrate. The aerosol generator may also be connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generator may be at least partially or completely located in the mouthpiece portion of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generator may be at least partially located in the controller portion.

The aerosol generator may employ any suitable technology for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol generator may utilize heat to generate the aerosol and comprise one or more heating components such as a heating plate, a heater, or an induction coil and a susceptor (using induction heating). The susceptor may have any suitable structure capable of being heated by induction, such as a mesh heater. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol generator may comprise a vibrating element that may not require heating to generate the aerosol. The heating plate may be useful for insertion into a solid substrate and heating to form an aerosol. The heater may comprise a heating element located adjacent to a liquid substrate that is heated to form an aerosol. The heater may be a mesh heater. The mesh heater may allow liquid substrate stored in the storage compartment to pass through voids in the mesh heater from one surface of the mesh to an opposite surface of the mesh.

The aerosol generating substrate may be contained in a substrate housing. The substrate may be described as a heated stick or as its contents. The aerosol generator may be connected to a dispensing device for converting the heated stick or the contents of the heated stick into an aerosol. The heat supplied by the heating plate to the heated stick cannot ignite the smoking material. The smoking material may contain tobacco.

The aerosol generator may comprise a heater, a heater coil, a chemical heat source such as a carbon heat source, or any suitable means that heats a liquid substrate to generate an aerosol from the liquid substrate. The aerosol generator may receive electrical energy or power to release or generate an aerosol from the liquid substrate. The aerosol generator may be a heater whose temperature changes depending on the electrical energy received. For example, the temperature of the heater may increase in response to a higher received voltage. The aerosol generator may be located adjacent to the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the aerosol generator may be connected adjacent to the liquid substrate.

The aerosol generator may be compatible for use with an aerosol generating substrate having a nicotine source and a lactic acid source. The nicotine source may comprise a sorption element, such as a PTFE wick, with nicotine adsorbed thereon, which may be inserted into a chamber forming a first compartment. The lactic acid source may comprise a sorption element, such as a PTFE wick, with lactic acid adsorbed thereon, which may be inserted into a chamber forming a second compartment. The aerosol generator may comprise a heater for heating both the nicotine source and the lactic acid source. In this case, the nicotine vapor may react with the lactic acid vapor in the gas phase to form an aerosol.

The aerosol generator may be compatible for use with an aerosol-generating substrate having a capsule that contains nicotine particles and is located in a cavity. When the user inhales, the air flow may rotate the capsule. The rotation may suspend and turn the nicotine particles into an aerosol.

The aerosol generating device may comprise an actuator. The actuator may comprise a button or other type of switch. The actuator may be actuated in response to pressing, switching, or other manipulation performed by the user. Actuation of the actuator may initiate various functional capabilities of the aerosol generating substrate. The aerosol generator may be activated in response to actuation of the actuator.

The actuator may be connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device. For example, the actuator may be located in the housing of the aerosol generating device or on it for user access. In particular, the actuator may be located on the control portion of the aerosol generating device. The actuator may be associated with one or more functions. The actuator may be used to turn on (e.g., activate) and turn off (e.g., deactivate) the aerosol generator or other components of the aerosol generating device. The actuator may use any suitable mechanism for receiving input from the user, such as a mechanical button that can be pressed by the user.

As a complement or alternative to the actuator, a puff sensor may be operatively connected to the aerosol generator to activate the aerosol generator. The puff sensor may be operatively connected to a controller of the aerosol generating device. The puff sensor may detect a user inhaling on a mouthpiece portion of the aerosol generating device. The puff sensor may be located within an air flow channel in the aerosol generating device to detect a user inhaling or puffing on the device. A puff may be detected by the controller using the puff sensor. Non-limiting types of puff sensors may include one or more of the following: a vibrating membrane, a piezoelectric sensor, a mesh membrane, a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive pressure sensor), or an air flow switch.

The power source can be used to supply power to the aerosol generator or other components of the aerosol generating device. The power source can be operatively connected to at least the aerosol generator. The power source can also be operatively connected to the display or the control circuit. The power source can be located in a controller portion of the aerosol generating device. The power source can be a battery. The aerosol generating device can use disposable or rechargeable batteries. The power source can comprise a charging interface configured to be operatively connected to an external power source for charging the battery.

The battery may contain a battery identifier, such as a serial number, which can be used to identify the battery. The battery identifier may be stored in a battery memory and may be accessible through a connection on the battery, such as battery terminals. The battery identifier may be output through the battery terminals even when the battery is being charged or before or after charging. Preferably, the charger may receive the battery identifier before charging or at the very beginning of the charging process.

In addition or alternatively, the battery identifier may be visible to the user of the battery. For example, the battery identifier may be printed on a label attached to the surface of the battery that the user can read. The battery identifier may be printed as a code, such as a barcode or QR code, that can be read by any suitable barcode reader. The charger may receive the battery identifier in response to user input, such as input on the user's mobile device operatively connected to the charger, or even in response to input on the charger itself if there is a user interface.

The charger may be located in any suitable or convenient area for one or more users of the aerosol generating devices to access and recharge their batteries. For example, a user may use the aerosol generating device one or more times while in a public place, such as during the workday or while traveling. The battery may require recharging in these public and public places, which may include locations in an office or at or near airplane, train, or bus stops. The charger may be a permanently installed piece of equipment in the area or may be a portable charger.

The charger may be adapted to recharge one or more batteries. Preferably, several batteries may be recharged in parallel (e.g., together or simultaneously). Each battery may relate to different users or aerosol generating devices. The charger may comprise a charging interface operatively connected to one or more batteries. The charging interface may be configured to work with a plurality of different ones. In particular, the charger may comprise one or more charging ports, each of which may accommodate a battery for charging.

The power supply may provide a connection of the charger to an electrical outlet to supply power to the charger. The charger may also contain a battery to provide portable charging of the battery of the aerosol generating device.

The charger may comprise a graphical user interface, such as one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or display screens. Various information, such as identifiers, names, messages, warnings, alerts, etc., may be provided by the graphical user interface to one or more users located near the charger. The graphical user interface may also provide user input, such as via an actuator or a touch screen. The graphical user interface may be used to display the charging status of the battery being charged by the charger. For example, by using an LED located near or adjacent to the battery being charged. The graphical user interface may be used to improve social functionality (e.g., social games). For example, one or more LEDs located near or adjacent to the battery being charged may be modulated, such as to light up or blink simultaneously to indicate user interest or a coincidence of common interests among several users. As another example, visual elements may be displayed on the screen indicating users who have common interests via a message displayed on the screen.

The graphical user interface may comprise one or more display screens. The graphical user interface may comprise a special screen associated with one or more of the charging ports. For example, each charging port may have a separate special screen associated with it. Information about the user may be displayed on the special screen based on user data, such as the user's name or a particular preference or interest.

The graphical user interface may include a common or main screen associated with multiple charging ports (e.g., some or all). The common screen may be located in the center of the charging device and visible to multiple users. Global messages may be displayed on the common screen, which may be used to improve socialization between users. For example, the charging device may include one or more speakers that may be used to inform or entertain users, such as broadcasting music. The common screen may display the title of a song being played through the speaker of the charging device, which may be transmitted from one of the user's connected mobile devices to the charging device.

The charger may provide the user with the ability to lock an aerosol generating device connected to the charger, such as connected to a charging interface or a cleaning interface. For example, the charger may provide the user with the ability to lock a battery connected to the charging interface. If the battery is locked, it cannot be removed from the charging interface immediately. Locking the battery may prevent the user from accidentally removing the wrong battery from the charger (for example, a battery belonging to another user). The user can unlock the battery by user input. The user can perform input to lock or unlock the battery by using the user's mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, which is available to the user.

The charging interface may comprise one or more actuators, such as a button, which may be provided as a supplement to or alternative to a touch screen on the charging interface. For example, at least one actuator may be associated with one of the batteries connected to the charging interface. A user action, such as pressing a button, may be received as user input. The user input may be used for various functionalities of the charger. For example, pressing a button may send a command to the charger to send an identifier of the battery associated with the button to the user's mobile device.

The charger may include a speaker to provide additional interaction for the user. For example, music may be sent from the user's mobile device to the charger for playback through the speaker. The speaker may also be used for informational purposes to notify the user, such as with messages about the charging status or schedule.

A cleaning port may be provided that is accessible to one or more users. One or more components of the aerosol generating device may occasionally require cleaning, such as a heating plate. The cleaning port may comprise an actuatable cleaning element used to clean one or more components of the aerosol generating device before, during, or after charging the battery. A non-limiting example of an actuatable cleaning element is a rotating brush at least partially located in the cleaning port.

The charging device may comprise a housing that holds or at least partially contains one or more components of the charging device. One or more of the power supply unit, the graphical user interface, the charging interface, the speaker, and the cleaning connector may be connected to the housing and at least partially located in the housing or on it. One or more of the graphical user interface, the charging interface containing one or more charging connectors, and one or more cleaning connectors may form at least a part of the outer surface of the housing. For example, the charging connectors and the cleaning connectors may be located in the housing or formed in it to create receptacles for containing components of the aerosol generating device.

The charger and the housing may be modular. In other words, the charger may contain one or more modules or a plurality of modules for performing various functionalities. For example, the housing of the charger may contain one or more parts that are detachably attached. Each of the modules or each of the parts that are detachably attached may be attached to form a package. One module may contain a charging interface. Another module may provide a power supply for the charger, which may contain a battery or a connection to an external power source (for example, an electrical outlet). Another module may provide an air quality sensor and may be functionally connectable to the air moving device for controlling the air moving device (for example, by using a wired or wireless connection). An additional module may contain a cleaning connector, which may contain, for example, a rotating brush for cleaning the heating plate. In this way, the functionality of the charger can be conveniently individually selected in accordance with the requirements of a specific location.

One or more locking components may be operatively connected to the charging device. For example, the locking component may be a compartment with the ability to lock (e.g., a drawer or cabinet) or a component with the ability to attach (e.g., a fastening wire attached to the aerosol generating device). The charging device may assign one or more users, which may be identified by user data or a battery identifier, to each locking component. The locking component may be connected to the housing of the charging device. The locking component may be removed from the housing, but is configured to control the charging device. The locking component may be used to retain or store various aerosol generating substrates or any other elements, such as organoleptic materials or other auxiliary equipment for generating an aerosol. As a complement to or an alternative to traditional mechanical locks, the locking component may use an electronically controlled lock that is locked or unlocked in response to the presence of a user or in response to user input. For example, when a user connects a battery to a charger that identifies the user, a locking component assigned to the user may be unlocked due to the presence of the user. When the user disconnects the battery from the charger, the locking component may be locked. As another example, the user may provide user input to a graphical user interface or a mobile device of the user in communication with a charger that identifies the user, whereby a command may be sent to lock or unlock the associated locking component.

The locking and unlocking properties of the locking component may be similar to or different from the properties of the battery latch, and vice versa.

The charger may provide a communication interface that may be used to communicate with one or more other devices, such as a user's mobile device. The communication interface may be configured to communicate with one or more user's mobile devices. In particular, the communication interface may establish communication with the user's mobile device, at least while the battery associated with this user is connected to the charging interface. The user's mobile device may also be used to control various functionalities of the charger (e.g., charging, cleaning, determining air quality, etc.).

The communication interface may use any suitable technology for establishing communication with other devices. The communication interface may use wireless communication. A non-limiting example of wireless communication includes using a Bluetooth connection, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). As an addition or alternative, the communication interface may use wired communication, such as via a universal serial bus (USB) or communication over power lines. In addition, the charger may be configured to charge one or more mobile devices via the communication interface (or via another interface), such as by using a USB connection.

A sensor, such as an air sensor for monitoring air quality, may be provided in the charger. The air sensor may be used to detect a pollutant near the charger. The air sensor may be located on the charger or located at a distance from the charger (e.g., functionally connected via a wired or wireless connection). Non-limiting examples of pollutants detected by the air sensor include: volatile organic compounds (VOC), carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ), etc. When a pollutant is detected, an alert may be sent to the user's mobile device indicating that the air quality is low.

The charger may comprise a controller operatively coupled to one or more other components of the charger to perform various functionalities described herein. The controller may comprise a memory device or memory unit for storing one or more instructions that can be executed by a processor or processing unit of the controller.

The controller may be functionally connected to the charging interface and the communication interface. The controller may receive a battery identifier, for example, by using the charging interface. In response to connecting the battery to the charging interface, the controller may be able to access the battery identifier.

The controller may determine a battery identifier corresponding to a battery connected to the charging interface, for example by using charging connectors. The controller may be connected to multiple charging connectors. In response to connecting the battery to the charging interface, the controller may determine the corresponding battery identifier.

The controller can establish a connection with the user's mobile device by using a communication interface, for example, at least when the battery is connected to the charging interface. The controller can be activated by connecting the battery to the charging interface or can be configured to detect it, and can then initiate a connection with the user's mobile device. The charger can establish a connection with the user's mobile device before connecting the battery to the charging interface. For example, the user can establish contact with an actuator or a touch screen element associated with a certain charging connector to establish a connection with the user's mobile device, and then the battery can be connected to the specified charging connector. The connection can be used to transmit user data, for example from the user's mobile device to the charger, or vice versa. Other types of data can also be transmitted via the connection.

The controller may send the battery identifier to the user's mobile device by using the communication interface. For example, the user's mobile device may not store the battery identifier associated with the battery for the aerosol generating device. In response to detecting a user action (for example, the user establishing contact with the actuator corresponding to one of the charging ports), the battery identifier received by the controller by using the charging interface may be transmitted by connecting to the user's mobile device. The user's mobile device may then store the battery identifier.

The controller may also receive a determination result from the user's mobile device that the battery identifier corresponds to the user's mobile device. The user's mobile device may store one or more battery identifiers associated with a battery or batteries for the aerosol generating device. The battery identifier may be sent from the charger to the user's mobile device after connecting the battery to the charging interface. The user's mobile device may determine that the received battery identifier corresponds to one of the stored battery identifiers. The user's mobile device may send a determination result to the charger that the identifier of the battery connected to the charging interface corresponds to or is associated with the user of the mobile device.

The controller may receive one or more battery identifiers from the user's mobile device. One or more battery identifiers may be stored in the user's mobile device, which may be associated with the user's mobile device (e.g., previously identified as associated with the user of the user's mobile device), or may be sent from the user's mobile device to the charger. The controller may receive one or more battery identifiers for comparison with the battery identifier received by using the charging interface, after connecting the battery to the charging interface. In response to the matching of the battery identifier received from the connected battery with the battery identifiers received from the user's mobile device, the controller may determine that the battery identifier is associated with the user's mobile device.

The controller may associate the battery identifier with the user's mobile device in response to determining the battery identifier and establishing a connection with the user's mobile device (e.g., sending or receiving one or more battery identifiers for comparison). Additionally or alternatively, the battery identifier may be associated with the user's mobile device based on user data transmitted between the communication interface and the user's mobile device. For example, the user may interact with the user's mobile device to indicate that the battery connected to the charging interface may be associated with a specific user's mobile device after establishing a connection.

The controller may receive user data from the user's mobile device by using a connection. User data may include any data associated with the user of the user's mobile device. Non-limiting examples of user data include: a user name associated with the user's mobile device, an identifier of the user's mobile device, a maximum battery charge time, one or more battery identifiers associated with the user's mobile device, cleaning data (e.g., the last time an aerosol generating device was cleaned), calendar data (e.g., appointments), movement data (e.g., a movement schedule or a history of the last movement), media data (e.g., music or other files), user preference data (e.g., air quality preferences, room lighting, or entertainment preferences such as a genre of music or a movie), or social content (such as hobbies, interests, or favorite music). Non-limiting examples of a user's mobile device identifier include: an international mobile equipment identity (IMEI), a mobile equipment identifier (MEID), an electronic device serial number (ESN), or an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI).

The controller may provide social content based on user data that may be received from the user's mobile device. For example, the controller may display on the user's graphical interface the number of users who like a certain music genre based on data from the user's connected mobile devices that indicate a love for a certain music genre. The controller may exchange social content from the user's connected mobile device with other connected mobile devices of the user by using the communication interface.

The controller may also be connected to an air sensor for detecting one or more pollutants near the charger. The controller may be further operatively connected to an air movement device. The air movement device may be part of the charger or may be located at a distance from the charger (e.g., connected via a wired or wireless connection). The air movement device may be located near the charger, adjacent to it, or in the space or room where the charger is located. Non-limiting examples of the air movement device include: an electric fan, an air conditioning unit, or a heating unit. Non-limiting examples of a wireless connection include: Wi-Fi or a connection via a smart switch.

The air movement device may blow air, accelerate air, or remove pollutants from the air. The air movement device may be described as an air purifier, air blower, or air circulator. For example, the air movement device may include a replaceable activated carbon filter for filtering odors in an enclosed space where the charger is located (which may be used in the pollutant extraction device mode). The air movement device may also include an air freshening substrate, which may be positioned to release an air freshening substance into the air flow of the air movement device manually or automatically on a regular basis.

The controller may activate or turn on the air movement device (e.g. automatically) in response to automatic detection of a pollutant or send a recommendation to the user. When receiving, for example, user preference data from the user's mobile device or via user input, the controller may configure the activation of the air movement device. After the air movement device is activated by the controller, the fan may be deactivated or turned off, for example, after a specified amount of time or in response to the results of the air sensor readings falling below a preset threshold (e.g. threshold concentration) or a general threshold level of air quality.

The user's mobile device can be operatively connected, for example, to the air movement device for activating or deactivating the air movement device in response to a user input or for changing the mode of the air movement device (for example, between a fan mode or a pollutant extraction device mode). The air movement device can be operatively connected to the user's mobile device by using a communication interface of the charger. The user's mobile device can receive an alert about low air quality, and the user can respond by means of a user input to the user's mobile device, the charger or the actuator operatively connected to the air movement device. When several user's mobile devices are connected to the controller, any user can be able to control the fan.

The controller may be connected to a light sensor for determining the lighting conditions around the charging device. The controller may be further functionally connected to a room lighting device. When receiving, for example, user preference data from the user's mobile device or via user input, the controller may automatically adjust the room lighting or send a recommendation to the user.

The controller may be additionally connected to the cleaning element. The controller may activate the cleaning element for cleaning the aerosol generating device, for example automatically in response to detecting the presence of the aerosol generating device in the cleaning connector. As a supplement or alternative, the controller may activate the cleaning element in response to a user action (for example, establishing contact with an actuator associated with the cleaning connector).

The controller may be disconnected from the user's mobile device. For example, the user's mobile device may be disconnected in response to determining that the battery identifier received by using the charging interface does not match the user's mobile device connected by using the communication interface. In response to determining that the battery identifier does not match, the controller may search for the user's mobile device that matches the battery connected to the charging interface. Also, the user's mobile device may be disconnected in response to disconnecting the battery from the charging interface or removing it. For example, when the user removes the battery from the charging interface, the controller may also disconnect the user's mobile device.

The controller may detect a user action associated with the battery. For example, the user may establish contact with an actuator associated with a charging port containing the battery. Establishing contact may indicate that the controller should establish a connection with the user's mobile device, or may even indicate that the controller should disconnect the user's mobile device associated with the battery.

The controller may generate a visible element (e.g., visible on a graphical user interface associated with a charging interface) based on user data from the user's mobile device. For example, the user data may include calendar data, and the visible element displayed on the screen may be a reminder of the user's next meeting.

The controller may modulate the battery charging current for the battery based on the maximum battery charging time. The controller may charge the battery in a fast charging mode (more current for a specific battery) or a load balancing mode (for example, the charger is running on batteries and is not connected to an electrical outlet). The maximum battery charging time may be determined by the controller in response to one or more of calendar data, movement data, and user preference data. The controller may enter the fast battery charging mode in response to a user's calendar that includes an urgent meeting that may be more important than other users' battery charging schedules.

The charger data may be sent to the user's mobile device by using the communication interface. The charger data may be any data related to the charger. Non-limiting examples of charger data include: battery charge level, time until the battery is fully charged, a warning that the battery is fully charged, a warning that the battery remains functionally connected to the charging interface in response to upcoming user events, the time elapsed since the last cleaning of the aerosol generating device by this charger, the geographic location of the charger, and maintenance recommendations (cleaning, fast charging, etc.).

The geographic location of the charger may be used by the user's mobile device, for example, to track locations where the user has previously charged the battery. The geographic location history may be useful as social content. For example, the location data history may be used for social functionality, such as correlating the user's data with data from other users who have or have not visited the same geographic locations. The geographic location data may be useful as user preference data. For example, the controller may adjust the air quality threshold based on the user's preference, such as the local air quality standard (e.g., based on the air quality standard at the user's place of residence), before turning on the air movement device.

In addition or alternatively, the charging controller may be connected to a wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi or cellular), which may or may not include the user's mobile device. The controller may use the wireless network to send a message to the user's mobile device, such as charging the battery. The user may insert the battery into the charging interface. The controller may establish a connection with the user's mobile device and retrieve the user's mobile device's phone number or other communication identifier. The user may then move away from the charging device (e.g., returning to the office or going to a store or restroom), so the user cannot see the graphical user interface of the charging device, which may display the battery charging status. After charging is complete, the user may be notified via a message, such as a text message, email, or app notification, to return and retrieve the charged battery.

One or more of the controllers described herein may include a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a computer, a logic array, or other device capable of directing data entering or leaving the charger. The controller may include one or more computing devices having hardware for storing, processing, and communicating. The functions of the controller may be performed by hardware and/or as computer instructions on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

The controller processor may include any one or more of the following: a microprocessor, a controller, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and/or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuit. In some examples, the processor may include multiple components, such as any combination of one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers, one or more DSPs, one or more ASICs, and/or one or more FPGAs, as well as other discrete or integrated logic circuits. The functions referred to as a controller or processor herein may be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof. Although the controller is described herein as a processor-based system, an alternative controller may use other components, such as relays and timers, to achieve the desired results, either alone or in combination with a microprocessor-based system.

Examples of systems, methods and interfaces may be implemented by using one or more computer programs with a computing device that may include one or more processors and/or memory devices. The program codes and/or logic described herein may be applied to input data/information to implement the functionality described herein and to generate the desired output data/information. The output data/information may be applied as input to one or more other devices and/or methods as described herein, or they may be applied in a known manner. From the foregoing, it will be apparent that the controller functionality described herein may be implemented in any manner known to those skilled in the art.

In addition to other components, the user's mobile device may comprise a user interface. The user interface may comprise a touch screen on which various elements, such as a keyboard, may be displayed. The user interface may allow the user to enter various information, such as user data, one or more battery identifiers, controls for the air movement device, or controls for the cleaning element. The entered battery identifier may be stored on the user's mobile device (e.g., before or after connection to the charger) or used for comparison with the battery identifier received by using the charging interface of the charger. The user interface may also display various information, such as social content from the charger or a message from the charger. Non-limiting examples of messages from the charger include: status messages (e.g., battery charging status), reminders (e.g., appointment or cleaning reminders), or alerts (e.g., a suggestion to clean the aerosol generating device based on cleaning data).

The charger and the user's mobile device may use any suitable wireless protocol to establish a connection. The charger and the user's mobile device may use the Bluetooth protocol to establish a connection. Different methods may be used to establish a connection via Bluetooth, for example depending on the version of Bluetooth used.

When using Bluetooth 4.0 or another star-type network (e.g., one that provides only one master node and multiple slave nodes, in which only one master node and multiple slave nodes are present that operate from a clock generator), the charger may act as a "slave node" in a master-slave configuration of the Bluetooth protocol. The charger may enter an informing mode so that it can be discovered by nearby mobile devices of the user. The mobile devices of the user may act as a "master node", while the charger may act as a slave node. When the mobile device of the user detects an informing packet from the charger, the mobile device of the user may provide a wireless Bluetooth connection between the charger and the mobile device of the user. Once the connection is established, the charger and the mobile device of the user may switch roles, such that the charger becomes the master node, and the mobile device of the user becomes the slave node.

When using Bluetooth 4.1 and above or other dual star topology networks that have multi-master properties (which, for example, provides multiple master nodes and also multiple slave nodes), the charger can establish a connection with multiple user mobile devices, with some acting as slave nodes and some acting as master nodes.

After establishing a connection with a new nearby mobile device of the user, the charger can continue to associate the batteries and the mobile devices of the user by using battery identifiers for at least each of the batteries that have not yet been associated with the mobile device of the user by the charger. For this purpose, a special application can be installed on the mobile devices of the user, in which various information can be recorded and stored, such as one or more battery identifiers associated with the aerosol generating device, or user data (for example, name or status).

The charger may read one or more battery identifiers transmitted from the user's mobile device or send an identifier of a battery connected to the charger to one or more user's mobile devices to check for matches. Preferably, the charger may receive one or more battery identifiers from the user's mobile devices and perform the check at the expense of the controller, which may be advantageous, for example, from a data protection point of view.

The aerosol generating device may establish communication with the user's mobile device or charger. For example, the aerosol generating device may comprise a communication interface configured to establish a Bluetooth connection or other wireless connection. The battery identifier may be received from the aerosol generating device, which has a controller configured to detect the battery identifier from the battery (e.g., by using the technology of transmitting information over electric networks). The battery identifier may be transmitted from the aerosol generating device to the charger or may be transmitted to the user's mobile device and then to the charger.

When a new battery or aerosol generating device is connected to the charger, the charger may retrieve the battery identifier from the connected battery. The charger may then attempt to match the battery identifier with one connected user mobile device. If no match is found, the charger may continue to establish connections with new user mobile devices until a match is found. If the charger finds a match for the battery identifier, the user mobile device may be added to the Bluetooth network, or piconet, of the charger. If the connected user mobile device does not match any battery identifier, the user mobile device may be disconnected.

Fig. 1 shows an environment 10 in which one or more users 12 may be located near a charging device 5. The environment 10 may be a public or public place, such as a transit point for trains, airplanes or buses. Each of the users 12 may have an aerosol generating device that can be charged in parallel by the charging device 5. The charging device 5 may be located in an open space or in a closed space so that the users can gather around the charging device. The charging device 5 may facilitate social interaction among the users 12 using a graphical user interface, a speaker or the user's mobile devices connected to the charging device.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of an example of one device 16 generating an aerosol. The device 16 may include a housing 14, a mouthpiece portion 24 and a controller portion 28. A battery 60, or other portable power source, may be operatively connected to one or more components to power other components of the device 16 generating an aerosol. An actuator 26 may be located on the controller portion 28. The mouthpiece portion 24 may include an aerosol generator 35 in the form of a heating plate. An aerosol-generating substrate 37 in the form of a heating rod may be inserted inside the mouthpiece portion 24 and onto the aerosol generator. A container with an aerosol-generating substrate 37 may include a mouthpiece 40 or may be connected to it. The user may inhale on the mouthpiece 40 to register a puff by the user.

The thermal limiter 62 can be located between at least a part of the aerosol generator 35 and the control circuit 54. The aerosol generator 35 can pass through the thermal limiter 62. The control circuit 54 can contain components for providing various functional capabilities of the device 16, which can be sensitive to the effect of heat generated by the aerosol generator 35.

The control circuit 54 may comprise a controller 50, which may be a microcontroller or a microprocessor, and a communication interface 52. The controller 50 may be operatively connected to the aerosol generator 35 and the communication interface 52. The communication interface 52 may be built into the controller 50. The communication interface 52 may be configured to communicate using the Bluetooth protocol. The puff sensor 51 may be operatively connected to the control circuit 54 and located with the ability to detect the user's inhalation on the mouthpiece portion 24. The control circuit 54 may comprise a memory device 56, operatively connected to the controller 50. The memory device 56 may be used to store data.

Although the aerosol generating device 16 is shown, other types of aerosol generating devices having a battery 60 are also possible, for example with other types of aerosol generators and other components.

Fig. 3 schematically shows one example of a charging device 100 for an aerosol generating device, such as an aerosol generating device 16. The charging device 100 may comprise a housing 116 that may at least partially accommodate one or more components of the charging device 100. The charging device 100 may comprise a charging interface 102 operatively connected to a battery 60 of the aerosol generating device 16 (Fig. 2). The charging interface 102 may comprise one or more charging ports 104, one or more cleaning ports 114, and a user graphical interface 120. The charging ports 104 and the cleaning ports 114 may be located in the housing 116 or formed therein to create receptacles for accommodating components of the aerosol generating device 16. The graphical user interface 120 may comprise one or more special screens 122 and one or more common screens 124. The graphical user interface 120 may comprise one or more touch screens associated with the screens 122, 124, or one or more associated actuators that are part of the charging interface 102 for receiving user input.

The battery 60 (FIG. 2) can be at least partially inserted into one of the ports 104 for charging or connected to it. Another component of the aerosol generating device 16 (FIG. 2), such as the mouthpiece 24 having the aerosol generator 35 (FIG. 2), can be connected to one of the ports 114 for cleaning. When the battery 60 is connected, a special screen 122 associated with the port 104 for charging can display information, such as the battery charging status or the user name. The common screen 124 can be used to display information for several users charging their batteries in one or more ports 104 for charging. The charging ports 104 and the cleaning ports 114 may be generally located around a common screen 124. Each charging port 104 may be located near or adjacent to an associated cleaning port 114 or an associated special screen 122.

The charging device 100 may comprise a communication interface 106 for establishing communication with the user's mobile device 108, at least while the battery 60 (FIG. 2) is connected to the charging interface 102. Various information and data may be transmitted between the charging device 100 and the user's mobile device 108, which may increase the convenience of charging or simplify social interaction with other users of the charging device. The user's mobile device 108 may comprise a screen 110, on which information may be displayed for the user related to user data or charging data, and which may have a touch screen for receiving user input. The communication interface 106 may also establish communication via a wireless network 140, for example, to send a message to the user's mobile device 108, which may be connected to the same wireless network.

The charger 100 may comprise a controller 130 operatively connected to the charging interface 102 and the communication interface 106 to provide various functionalities of the charger 100. The controller 130 may also be operatively connected to the locking component 118 (for example, a compartment with the ability to lock) to facilitate locking and unlocking in response to user input, for example, via the user's mobile device 108.

The charger 100 may comprise an air sensor 112. The air sensor 112 may be used to detect one or more pollutants near the charger 100.

The charging device 100 may comprise one or more speakers 126 for providing sound to one or more users located near the charging device. For example, music may be played through the speakers 126 via the user's mobile devices.

Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of another charging device 200. The charging device 200 can be similar to the charging device 100 (Fig. 3) and can contain many similar components, however, the charging device 200 can be modular. In other words, the housing 216 of the charging device 200 can have one or more detachably attached modules, each of which has different functional capabilities. As shown, the charging device 200 can include a first module 202, a second module 204, a third module 206 and a fourth module 208. Each of the modules 202, 204, 206, 208 can be operatively connected to form a package. The first module 202 can include a charging interface 220. The second module 204 can provide a power supply, which can include a battery or a connection to an external power source (for example, an electrical outlet). The third module 206 can include an air quality sensor 212. The third module 206 can also be operatively connected to the air moving device 210 for controlling the air moving device (for example, by using a wired or wireless connection). The fourth module 208 can contain one or more cleaning connectors 214, each of which can contain, for example, a rotating brush for cleaning the heating plate.

Fig. 5 shows a flow chart illustrating one example of a method 300 for establishing a connection between a charger and a user's mobile device by using a wireless protocol, in particular a Bluetooth protocol. In process 302, the charger can act as a slave node. In process 304, the charger can inform about the possibility of establishing a connection with the user's mobile devices that are nearby. In process 306, if the user's mobile device, acting as a master node, connects to the charger, the method 300 can continue with process 308. If the user's mobile device is not connected, then the process can return to process 304. In process 308, after the user's mobile device is connected, the user's mobile device and the charger can switch roles. In other words, the charger can act as a master node, and the user's mobile device can act as a slave node. The method 300 may end with a process 310, in which the user's mobile device may be added to the piconet, or to the Bluetooth network, of the charging device.

Fig. 6 shows a flow chart illustrating another example of a method 400 for establishing a connection between a charger and a user's mobile device by using a wireless protocol, in particular a Bluetooth protocol. In process 402, the charger may detect a connection of a new battery to the charging interface. In process 404, a battery identifier may be derived from the battery. In process 406, the charger may determine whether all connected user mobile devices have been checked for the battery identifier derived from the battery. If not all user mobile devices have been checked, method 400 may continue with process 408 to derive the battery identifier from an unverified user mobile device (for example, from an application installed on the user's mobile device). In process 410, the charger may check whether the battery identifier from the user's mobile device matches the battery identifier derived from the connected battery. If not, method 400 may return to process 406 to continue checking the user's mobile devices for a matching identifier. If the battery identifiers match in process 410, method 400 may continue with process 412 to link the connected battery and the user's mobile device.

If all connected mobile devices of the user have been checked in the process 406, the method 400 can continue with the process 414 for informing about the presence of the charger to other mobile devices of the user that are nearby. In the process 416, the charger can determine whether a new mobile device of the user has been connected. If not, then the process 414 according to the method 400 can be repeated. If a new mobile device of the user has been connected to the charger (for example, the charger, acting as a slave node, connects to the mobile device of the user, acting as a master node), the method 400 can continue with the process 418 for changing the roles of the mobile device of the user and the charger. In other words, the charger can act as a master node, and the mobile device of the user can act as a slave node. The mobile device of the user can be added to the piconet of the charger in the process 420.

The charger may output one or more battery identifiers from the user's mobile device in process 422. In particular, an application installed on the user's mobile device may provide the battery identifier to the charger. The charger may then determine whether the battery identifier output from the connected battery matches the battery identifier received from the user's mobile device in process 424. If so, the method 400 may proceed to process 412 to associate the connected battery with the user's mobile device. If the battery identifiers do not match, the charger may be disconnected from the user's mobile device in process 426. The method 300 then proceeds to process 414 to continue informing potential user mobile devices about the possibility of performing a connection.

The specific embodiments described above are intended to illustrate the present invention. However, other embodiments may also be proposed without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims, and it should be understood that the specific embodiments described above are not intended to be limiting.

As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include embodiments with plural references unless the content clearly indicates otherwise.

In the context of this document, the conjunction "or" is generally used in its meaning, including "and/or", unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. The term "and/or" means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

As used in this document, the words "have", "having", "include", "including", "contain", "containing" or the like are used in their broad sense and generally mean "including, but not limited to". It will be understood that the expressions "consisting essentially of", "consisting of", etc., are included in the category of "comprising", etc.

The terms "connected" and "connected" refer to elements attached to each other either directly (being in direct contact with each other) or indirectly (having one or more elements between them and attaching two elements). Both terms may be modified by the words "operably" and "functionally", which may be used interchangeably, to describe that a connection or coupling is configured to allow components to interact to perform at least some functionality (e.g., a user's mobile device may be functionally connected to a cellular network to transmit data or to receive data from it).

The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the present invention that may provide certain advantages under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the disclosure of one or more preferred embodiments does not mean that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present invention, including the claims.

Claims (30)

1. A charging device for an aerosol generating device comprising a charging interface that is connected to the battery for the aerosol generating device when operating; an air sensor configured to detect a pollutant; and a controller connected during operation with the charging interface and with the air sensor, wherein the controller is configured to: detecting the pollutant using an air sensor; and activating an air movement device in response to detection of a pollutant. 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the controller, during operation, is connected to a communication interface for communication with the user's mobile device, at least when the battery is connected to the charging interface, and the controller is configured to establishing a connection with the user's mobile device by using a communication interface, wherein the connection is configured to transmit user data; and associating the battery identifier with the user's mobile device after establishing a connection with the user's mobile device. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the user data includes one or more of the following: a user name associated with the user's mobile device, an identifier of the user's mobile device, a maximum battery charge time, one or more battery identifiers associated with the user's mobile device, cleaning data, calendar data, movement data, media data, user preference data, and social content. 4. The device according to any one of paragraphs 2, 3, in which the controller is additionally configured with the possibility of establishing a connection by using the Bluetooth protocol. 5. The device according to any one of paragraphs 2-4, in which the controller is further configured to associate the battery identifier with the user's mobile device based on user data transmitted between the communication interface and the user's mobile device. 6. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 2-5, in which the controller is further configured to receive the battery identifier by using the charging interface in response to communication of the battery with the charging interface. 7. The device according to any one of paragraphs 2-6, in which the controller is additionally configured to sending a battery identifier to the user's mobile device using a communication interface; and receiving a result of determining from the user's mobile device that the battery identifier corresponds to the user's mobile device after sending the battery identifier to the user's mobile device. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the controller is further configured to send a battery identifier to any user mobile device connected to the controller to associate the battery with a specific user mobile device. 9. The device according to any one of paragraphs 2-8, in which the controller is additionally configured to receiving one or more battery identifiers associated with the user's mobile device from the user's mobile device; and determining whether a battery identifier matches one or more received battery identifiers. 10. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 7-9, in which the controller is further configured to be disconnected from the user's mobile device in response to determining that the battery identifier does not match. 11. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 7-10, in which the controller is further configured to search for another mobile device of the user in response to determining that the battery identifier does not match. 12. The device according to any one of paragraphs 2-10, in which the charging interface comprises a screen, and wherein the controller is further configured to generating a visible element based on user data received from the user's mobile device; and displaying a visible element on the screen. 13. The device according to any one of paragraphs. 2-12, in which the controller is communicable when operating with a wireless network for sending a message regarding battery charging to the user's mobile device. 14. The device according to any one of paragraphs 2-13, in which the controller is additionally configured to determining social content based on user data obtained from the user's mobile device; and distributing social content to other user mobile devices that have an established connection, through the use of a communication interface. 15. The device according to any one of claims 1-14, comprising a housing having a charging interface, wherein the housing further comprises a locking component assignable to one or more users.