Wow. I get back to the board and not only did I get a "sticky", but my comments are actually thoughtfully considered! Talk about pleasant surprises!
Well, I must admit that you are correct in that the device is not entirely "fool proof", which it absolutely should be, given that we who smoke surely exhibit some degree of foolishness for becoming addicted in the first place. As for modifying the microchip, that is well beyond the scope of my knowledge. However, after reading the patent (which I tried to recommend to everyone in an earlier post) and subsequently trying the device, I tend to agree with "mt horeb bank" and "Tim H" in that the problem may be much easier to solve.
Firstly, in section [0031] of the patent, parts #26 and #35, the filter and the connector on which it is placed, are supposed to form an "airtight" connection, which they currently do not seem to do. Simply enlarging the outer radius of part #26 (or maybe 20.1, I'm not sure exactly how to read the drawings) or reducing the inner radius of the filter (part #35, I think) could solve the issue.
Also, section [0032] of the patent allows for variation in the air-inlets "from several millimeters to a degree that they are invisible to the naked eye", thus can be changed on the production line, maybe easily.
It seems to me that the quest for the perfect, fool-proof hit may be more of a quality control issue than a design flaw. (Better yet, because easier to rectify.)
As for being able to jam in a band with the device held in your lips "hands free", this thing is great because, unless you're Kieth Richards, the smoke almost always gets in your eyes. Plus, the soft filter allows you to stick the cig between your string and your headstock, as many guitarists and bassists like to do during a song. Just try that with a big plastic vapor stick! Probably put you right out of tune! This little invention can end up being a Real blessing for musicians playing the no-smoking circuit.
Thanks a lot for reading my posts, and it is great to put our heads together on this whole deal, both financially and practically.
Good luck to everybody, and "here's to no longer choking our lungs on smoke!" (that was supposed to be a toast!)
Ed
