Flexible cover for charging or holding case of aerosol generator

Abstract

A flexible cover for a charging or holding case of an aerosol generator includes mounting portions for removably attaching the flexible cover to the charging or holding case. The flexible cover further includes a rigid portion comprising a stack of layers. The stack of layers includes an antenna coil for wirelessly receiving power for wireless charging of the charging or holding case, a heat dissipation layer, and an electromagnetic shielding layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a flexible cover for a charging or holding case of an aerosol generating device, and to a corresponding aerosol generating system including the charging or holding case and the aerosol generating device.

Background Art

[0002] Different types of aerosol generating devices are known. For example, a heat-not-burn type aerosol generating device generally comprises a device battery, control electronics, and an electric heater for heating an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol for consumption by a user. The aerosol-generating article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate such as a tobacco segment or a tobacco plug, and the electric heater housed in the aerosol generating device heats the aerosol when the aerosol-generating article is received in the aerosol generating device. It is inserted into, or positioned around, the forming substrate. Another type of aerosol generating device of the vaporizer type may comprise a device battery that heats an aerosol generating liquid from a cartridge to provide an aerosol for consumption by a user.

[0003] Aerosol generating devices are also used as pharmaceutical type atomizers or aerosol generators for generating inhalable pharmaceutical ingredients.

[0004] WO2021 / 074420 discloses a holder for an elongated aerosol generating device. The holder defines a docking space for accommodating the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device can be accommodated in the docking space for protection and for recharging the device battery of the aerosol generating device with power from the primary battery of the holder. The holder comprises a cover movable between a covered position, in which the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space, and an uncovered position.

[0005] Generally known charging or holding cases come with a USB charging adapter, to which you can connect a cable and plug it into a power outlet to recharge the primary battery. [Overview of the project]

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a flexible case for a charging or holding case for an aerosol generator is provided. The cover comprises a mounting portion and a rigid portion. The cover includes at least one flexible portion. The flexible portion may be adjacent to the mounting portion. The flexible portion may be adjacent to the rigid portion. The flexible portion may be located between the rigid portion and the mounting portion.

[0007] The mounting section is for removably attaching the cover to the charging or holding case. The rigid section includes a stack of layers. The stack of layers includes an antenna coil for wirelessly receiving power for wireless charging of the charging or holding case, a heat dissipation layer, and an electromagnetic shielding layer. Therefore, the user does not need to use a USB charging adapter every time to recharge the primary battery. Furthermore, the cover as a whole is removably attached to and can be removed from the charging or holding case, thereby allowing the user to replace the outer cover if it becomes worn. This also allows the cover to be used as a user-replaceable accessory. Thus, the cover can additionally serve decorative and personalization purposes. The heat dissipation layer and electromagnetic shielding layer improve the charging efficiency of wireless charging.

[0008] The flexible cover may be elastically or plastically deformable so that it can be spread flat. When the flexible cover is spread flat, it may form a larger charging and device receiving surface compared to when the wireless charging antenna is incorporated into the charging or holding case.

[0009] The thermal conductivity of the heat dissipation layer may be superior to that of the other layers in the stack. The heat dissipation layer can significantly improve heat diffusion and dissipation. Therefore, the heat dissipation layer can help diffuse and dissipate the heat generated during wireless charging, thereby improving charging efficiency.

[0010] The heat dissipation layer may contain metal. The metal may be aluminum, copper, silver, or gold, or any combination thereof. Alternatively, or additionally, the heat dissipation layer may contain graphite. The heat dissipation layer may consist of graphite. Graphite can help diffuse and dissipate the heat generated during wireless charging. In addition, graphite can act as a receiver resistance reducer. Therefore, graphite can improve charging efficiency.

[0011] The thickness of the heat dissipation layer may be in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm. Preferably, the thickness of the heat dissipation layer may be 0.5 mm. The heat dissipation layer may contain graphite or consist of graphite, and in addition, the thickness of the heat dissipation layer may be in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm. The thicker the graphite layer, the better the charging efficiency may be. The heat dissipation layer may contain graphite or consist of graphite, and in addition, preferably the thickness of the heat dissipation layer is 0.5 mm.

[0012] The electromagnetic shielding layer may contain nanocrystalline materials. In addition, or by other means, the electromagnetic shielding layer may contain an FeCo50 alloy. These materials have the properties of a narrow and steep hysteresis loop, a nearly reversible magnetization process, small hysteresis loss, low coercivity, and high permeability. Therefore, nanocrystalline materials or FeCo50 alloys (or combinations thereof) can be quite useful in reducing energy loss during wireless charging. The magnetic field generated during wireless power transmission can be concentrated. This can maximize charging efficiency.

[0013] The thickness of the electromagnetic shielding layer may be in the range of 0.01 mm to 1 mm. The electromagnetic shielding layer may be configured to cover at least a portion of the area of ​​the charging or retaining case that is exposed to the antenna coil when the flexible cover is attached to the charging or retaining case. The electromagnetic shielding layer may be configured to cover the entire area of ​​the charging or retaining case that is exposed to the antenna coil when the flexible cover is attached to the charging or retaining case. This may increase charging efficiency.

[0014] The stacking of layers may further include a reinforcing layer. This can prevent the antenna coil from being bent, folded, wrinkled, or distorted, which could lead to damage or breakage of part of the antenna coil. Therefore, the reinforcing layer can ensure charging efficiency. The reinforcing layer may contain metal. Additionally, or by other means, the reinforcing layer may contain plastic material. The reinforcing layer may contain polycarbonate (PC), aluminum alloy, or stainless steel, or a combination thereof. It is preferable that the reinforcing layer contains PC. This is because PC draws little additional current during radio power transmission, thus preventing power loss during radio power transmission. The thickness of the reinforcing layer may be in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. The thickness of the reinforcing layer may be in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0015] The antenna coil may be bonded to a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The thickness of the antenna coil may be 1 mm. Therefore, the rigidity of the antenna coil can be ensured, and distortion of the antenna coil can be suppressed.

[0016] The following stacking order can be viewed in the thickness direction of the cover, with reference to the direction perpendicular to the charging or retaining case from the outer surface portion of the flexible cover. As seen in the thickness direction described above, the electromagnetic shielding layer may be positioned above the antenna coil. The heat dissipation layer may be positioned above the electromagnetic shielding layer. If the stacking of layers further includes a reinforcing layer, the antenna coil may be positioned above the reinforcing layer. Additionally, or by other means, the reinforcing layer may be positioned above the heat dissipation layer.

[0017] When viewed from the outside of the cover in the thickness direction of the cover, with the cover configured to face outward when attached to the charging or holding case, the layers are in the following order: Outer reinforcement layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, inner reinforcement layer; Antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, reinforcing layer; It can be stacked with one of the following: a reinforcing layer, an antenna coil, an electromagnetic shielding layer, or a heat dissipation layer.

[0018] The above layer arrangement ensures the optimization of the function of each layer in the stacked structure. Therefore, charging efficiency can be optimized.

[0019] The stack of layers may further include electronic components configured to provide information to the user. The electronic components may include a display screen. Additionally, or otherwise, the electronic components may include at least one LED. The electronic components may be arranged on top of the stack of layers when viewed from the inside of the cover in the thickness direction of the cover, and the inside of the cover is configured to face the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case. The information provided may be the wireless charging status. The wireless charging status may be the battery capacity level. Additionally, or otherwise, the wireless charging status may be the charging method. Additionally, or otherwise, the wireless charging status may be the charging progress. The information provided may reflect the positional alignment of the antenna coil relative to the wireless power transmitter.

[0020] The cover may include a flexible wrap. The flexible wrap may be configured to reversibly wrap around at least a portion of the charging or holding case. The stack of layers may be fixed to the flexible wrap. The stack of layers may be partially embedded within the flexible wrap. The stack of layers may be fully embedded within the flexible wrap. The flexible wrap may include an inner layer, which may be configured to face the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case. The flexible wrap may include an outer layer, which may be configured to be exposed to the outside of the cover when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case. The flexible wrap may include cloth, leather, synthetic leather, suede, synthetic suede, velvet material, felt-like material, fibrous material, multilayer 3D printed layer, embossed layer, fur or synthetic fur-like material or polyurethane (PU) material, or a combination thereof. The outer layer may include fabric, leather, synthetic leather, suede, synthetic suede, velvet material, felt-like material, fibrous material, multilayer 3D printed layer, embossed layer, fur or synthetic fur-like material, or polyurethane (PU) material, or a combination thereof. The outer layer may be translucent, porous, or reflective (or a combination thereof), so that the underlying display screen or LED (or a combination thereof) can shine through the outer layer. The display screen or LED may be at least partially embedded in the outer layer. The inner layer may include fabric, leather, synthetic leather, suede, synthetic suede, velvet material, felt-like material, fibrous material, multilayer 3D printed layer, embossed layer, fur or synthetic fur-like material, or polyurethane (PU) material, or a combination thereof. The inner layer may be translucent, porous, or reflective (or a combination thereof), so that the underlying display screen or LED (or a combination thereof) can shine through the inner layer. The display screen or LED may be at least partially embedded in the inner layer. The material of the inner layer may be different from the material of the outer layer. The thickness of the inner layer may be in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm. The thickness of the outer layer may be in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm.The thickness of the inner layer may differ from that of the outer layer. The layers may be stacked with the inner and outer layers sandwiched in between. An antenna coil, heat dissipation layer, electromagnetic shielding layer, or reinforcing layer may be merged with either the inner or outer layer.

[0021] The mounting portion may include a self-aligning structure. The self-aligning structure may be configured to prevent misalignment between the cover and the charging or retaining case. Thus, correct orientation and alignment between the cover and the charging or retaining case can be ensured. This can provide proper mechanical alignment between the flexible cover and any cavities or openings that need to be covered. Furthermore, the correct orientation and alignment between the cover and the charging or retaining case can provide proper electrical interconnection between the flexible flap and the charging or retaining case. Therefore, the wireless charging function of the flexible cover can be guaranteed.

[0022] The self-aligning structure may include at least one mounting means. The mounting means may be a magnet, a metal structure susceptible to magnetic interaction, or a snap-fit ​​or press-fit structure (or a combination thereof). Thus, connection robustness between the cover and the charging or retaining case may be improved. The self-aligning structure may include at least two mounting means. The mounting means may differ in size from one another. Additionally, or by other means, the mounting means may differ in shape from one another.

[0023] Additionally, or otherwise, the mounting means may exhibit asymmetry with respect to the plane of symmetry of the cover, which is parallel to the thickness direction of the cover. The asymmetry may be caused by the positioning of the mounting means. The mounting means may be a magnetic or metallic structure susceptible to magnetic interactions (or combinations thereof), and the asymmetry may be established by the polarity of the mounting means.

[0024] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a charging or holding case for an aerosol generating device. The charging or holding case comprises the cover according to the first aspect described above.

[0025] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating system comprises an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating system further comprises the charging or holding case according to the second aspect described above.

[0026] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for wireless charging of a charging or holding case for an aerosol generating device. The method comprises the step of attaching a cover to the charging or holding case. The cover is the cover according to the first aspect described above.

[0027] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided use of the cover according to the first aspect described above for wireless charging of a charging or holding case.

[0028] The present disclosure includes various aspects, embodiments, and examples. The features, advantages, and descriptions disclosed with reference to any one of these aspects, embodiments, and examples may be combined with, or applied to, any one of the other aspects, embodiments, and examples described herein.

[0029] The present invention is defined by the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more of the features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0030] Example 1: A flexible cover for a charging or holding case of an electronic device, in particular a charging or holding case of an aerosol generating device, an attachment portion for removably attaching the cover to the charging or holding case; and a rigid portion comprising a stack of layers, A flexible cover comprising stacked layers, including an antenna coil for wirelessly receiving power for wireless charging of a charging or holding case, a heat dissipation layer, and an electromagnetic shielding layer.

[0031] Example 2: The heat dissipation layer has the following characteristics: a. The heat dissipation layer comprises a metal, preferably aluminum, copper, silver, and / or gold. b. The heat dissipation layer contains graphite. c. The heat dissipation layer is made of graphite. d. The cover according to Example 1, comprising at least one of the following: the thickness of the heat dissipation layer is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.5 mm.

[0032] Example 3: The electromagnetic shielding layer has the following characteristics: a. The electromagnetic shielding layer comprises a nanocrystalline material and / or an FeCo50 alloy. b. The cover according to Example 1 or Example 2, comprising at least one of the following: the thickness of the electromagnetic shielding layer is in the range of 0.01 mm to 1 mm.

[0033] Example 4: The stacking of layers has the following characteristics: a. The reinforcing layer includes metal and / or plastic material, b. The reinforcing layer includes polycarbonate (PC), aluminum alloy, and / or stainless steel. c. The cover according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, further comprising a reinforcing layer having at least one of the following thicknesses: 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0034] Example 5: The antenna coil has the following characteristics: a. The antenna coil is bonded to a pressure-sensitive adhesive. b. A cover according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, comprising at least one of the following: the thickness of the antenna coil is approximately 1 mm.

[0035] Example 6: When the layers are viewed in the thickness direction of the cover, with reference to the direction perpendicular to the outer surface portion of the flexible cover toward the charging or holding case, the order is as follows: a. Outer reinforcement layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, inner reinforcement layer; b. Antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, reinforcing layer; c. A cover according to any of Examples 1 to 5, which is stacked with one of the following: a reinforcing layer, an antenna coil, an electromagnetic shielding layer, or a heat dissipation layer.

[0036] Example 7: The cover according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the stacked layers further include electronic components configured to provide information to the user, and the electronic components include a display screen and / or LEDs.

[0037] Example 8: The cover according to Example 7, wherein the electronic components are arranged on a stack of layers when viewed from the inside of the cover in the thickness direction of the cover, and the inside of the cover is configured to face the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case.

[0038] Example 9: A cover according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, comprising a flexible wrap configured to be reversibly wrapped around at least a portion of a charging or holding case, wherein the stack of layers is fixed to the flexible wrap, preferably partially embedded therein, and particularly preferably completely embedded therein.

[0039] Example 10: The flexible wrap has the following characteristics: a. An inner layer configured to face the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case, b. An outer layer configured to be exposed to the outside of the cover when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case, c. Fabric, leather, synthetic leather, suede, synthetic suede, velvet material, felt-like material, fur material, fibrous material, multilayer 3D printed layer, embossed layer, synthetic fur-like material, and / or polyurethane (PU) material. d. The thickness of the inner and / or outer layers is in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm. e. The stack of layers is sandwiched between the inner and outer layers. f. An antenna coil, heat dissipation layer, electromagnetic shielding layer, reinforcing layer, and electronic components are merged with either an inner layer or an outer layer. f. The cover according to Example 9, comprising at least one of the following: an inner layer and an outer layer, either of which is translucent, porous, and / or reflective, so that a display screen and / or LEDs underneath can light through it.

[0040] Example 11: The cover according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the mounting portion has a self-aligning structure configured to prevent misalignment between the cover and the charging or holding case.

[0041] Example 12: The cover according to Example 11, wherein the self-aligning structure includes at least one mounting means, which is a magnet, a metal structure susceptible to magnetic interaction, a snap-fit ​​structure, and / or a press-fit structure.

[0042] Example 13: The self-aligning structure includes at least two mounting means, and the mounting means are a. Different in size and / or shape from one another, and / or b. The cover described in Example 12 above, which exhibits asymmetry with respect to the plane of symmetry of the cover parallel to the thickness direction of the cover.

[0043] Example 14: The cover according to Example 13, wherein the asymmetry is caused by the positioning of the mounting means.

[0044] Example 15: The cover according to Example 13 or Example 14, wherein the mounting means is a metal structure susceptible to magnets and / or magnetic interactions, and the asymmetry is established by the polarity of the mounting means.

[0045] Example 16: A charging or holding case for an electronic device, comprising a cover as described in any of Examples 1 to 15.

[0046] Example 17: The charging or holding case according to Example 16, wherein the electronic device is an aerosol generator.

[0047] Example 18: A system comprising an electronic device and the charging or holding case described in Example 16.

[0048] Example 19: The system described in Example 18 above, wherein the electronic device is an aerosol generator.

[0049] Example 20: A method for wireless charging of a charging or holding case for an electronic device, a. Attaching a cover to a charging or holding case, wherein the cover is one of the covers described in Examples 1 to 15, b. A method comprising wirelessly transmitting power to the antenna coil of the cover.

[0050] Example 21: Use of any of the covers described in Examples 1 to 15 above for wireless charging of the charging or holding case.

[0051] Here, we will further describe the examples with reference to the figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0052] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of the aerosol generation system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of the aerosol generating system, with the charging or holding case of the aerosol generating system shown in a partially disassembled state. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a flexible cover according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a flexible cover according to the first embodiment, in which the flexible wrap and upper reinforcing layer are omitted. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an enlarged perspective view of the stacking of flexible cover layers according to the first embodiment, with the flexible wrap and upper reinforcing layer omitted. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the arrangement of the first layer along the thickness direction of the flexible cover. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the arrangement of the second layer along the thickness direction of the flexible cover. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a diagram illustrating the test results of wireless power transmission efficiency for different sets of material combinations. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a first embodiment of the self-aligning structure. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a second embodiment of the self-aligning structure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a third embodiment of the self-aligning structure. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows a fourth embodiment of the self-aligning structure. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows a fifth embodiment of the self-aligning structure. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a sixth embodiment of the self-aligning structure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0053] Similar features are indicated by the same reference numbers throughout the claims.

[0054] Figure 1 shows an aerosol generating system 1. The aerosol generating system 1 comprises an aerosol generator 3. The aerosol generator 3 can be a handheld electronic device for heating a stick-shaped aerosol generating article to produce an aerosol for user consumption. The aerosol generator 3 comprises a receiving cavity 5 for receiving the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generator 3 further comprises a heater 7 for heating the aerosol generating article, in particular the aerosol generating segment of the aerosol generating article. The heater 7 may comprise, for example, a resistance heater element or an inductive assembly configured to heat the aerosol generating segment. The aerosol generator 3 further comprises a rechargeable device battery 9 for powering one or more functions of the aerosol generator 3. In particular, the device battery 9 powers the heater 7. In a variation, the aerosol generator 3 is a vaporizer-type device for vaporizing a liquid having one or more activators.

[0055] The aerosol generating system 1 further comprises a charging or holding case 11. The charging or holding case 11 includes a flexible cover 13. In Figure 1, the charging or holding case 11 is shown with the flexible cover 13 attached and rolled up. In this state, the charging or holding case 11 is closed.

[0056] Figure 2 shows the charging or holding case 11 in a partially disassembled state. As shown in Figure 2, the charging or holding case 11 further comprises a case body 31. The case body 31 defines a docking compartment (or holding cavity or opening) 33. The docking compartment 33 is configured to receive the aerosol generator 3. The user may store or place the aerosol generator 3 in the docking compartment 33 of the charging or holding case 11 between uses.

[0057] Furthermore, the charging or holding case 11 includes a charging or holding case battery 35. The charging or holding case battery 35 is housed in a battery compartment 37 defined by the case body 31. The charging or holding case battery 35 is electrically in contact with the electric battery interface of the charging or holding case 11. The electric battery interface is electrically connected to an electrical device interface provided in the docking compartment 33. When the aerosol generator 3 is housed in the docking compartment 33, the aerosol generator 3 may be electrically connected to the electrical device interface to allow the device battery 9 to be charged from the charging or holding case battery 35. Therefore, the device battery 9 may be recharged between uses while stored or located in the docking compartment 33.

[0058] As further shown in Figure 2, the charging or retaining case 11 includes a battery compartment cover 39. The battery compartment cover 39 is operable between a closed and an open state. In the closed state, the battery compartment cover 39 prevents the charging or retaining case battery 35 in the battery compartment 37 from being accessed and removed. In the closed state, the battery compartment cover 39 is reversibly attached to the case body 31, for example, by a snap-fit ​​connection. The snap-fit ​​connection comprises a structure 41 provided to the battery compartment cover 39 and a corresponding counter structure 43 provided to the case body 31. The open state is shown in Figure 2. In the open state, the battery compartment cover 39 allows access to the battery compartment 37 to remove or insert the charging or retaining case battery 35.

[0059] Furthermore, the charging or holding case 11 includes a housing portion 45 attached to the case body 31. The housing portion 45 may be made of metal and forms at least a part of the appearance of the charging or holding case 11.

[0060] The flexible cover 13 can be removably attached to the case body 31. For this purpose, the flexible cover 13 is provided with an attachment portion 19. Figure 3 shows the flexible cover 13 removed from the case body 31. The flexible cover 13 is provided with a flexible wrap 15. The flexible wrap 15 is provided with a free end 27 of the flexible cover 13. The flexible wrap 15 is configured to be reversibly wrapped around the case body 31, while the flexible cover 13 is attached to the case body 31 via the attachment portion 19.

[0061] A latch portion 29 is provided at the free end 27 of the flexible wrap 15. The latch portion 29 is configured to be reversibly attached to the case body 31. Preferably, the latch portion 29 includes a magnet that is incorporated into or attached to the flexible cover 13. The free end 27 can be attached to the case body 31 to form a closed configuration of the charging or holding case 11. The closed configuration is shown in Figure 1.

[0062] The flexible wrap 15 includes an inner surface 47 and an outer surface 49. When the flexible cover 13 is attached to the case body 31 in the configuration shown in Figure 1, the inner surface 47 faces the case body 31. In addition, in this state, the outer surface 49 is facing outwards, i.e., exposed to the outside of the flexible cover 13.

[0063] The inner surface 47 and the outer surface 49 are formed by an inner layer 51 and an outer layer 52, respectively. The inner layer 51 and the outer layer 52 may be formed from the same material or from different materials. For example, the outer layer 52 may contain cloth or polyurethane (PU), and the inner layer 51 may contain microfibers. Furthermore, as an example, the thickness of the outer layer 52 may be 0.65 mm, and the thickness of the inner layer 51 may be 0.55 mm.

[0064] Figure 4 shows the state of the flexible cover 13, with the flexible wrap 15 and outer reinforcing layer 53 omitted. As can be seen from this figure, the first reinforcing element 63 is embedded in the free end 27 of the flexible wrap 15. The first reinforcing element 63 may also be embedded between the inner layer 51 and the outer layer 52. The first reinforcing element 63 may also be merged with either the inner layer 51 or the outer layer 52. The first reinforcing element 63 is formed of a plastic material and enhances the rigidity and durability of the free end 27.

[0065] Furthermore, at least within the wireless charging area 61, the flexible cover 13 includes a stack of layers 17. In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the stack of layers 17 is embedded within the flexible wrap 15. In Figure 2, the stack of layers 17 is indicated by a dashed line and is located within the dashed line indicating the wireless charging area 61. As can be seen in Figure 3, the stack of layers 17 is embedded within the flexible wrap 15 such that a small protrusion is formed within the wireless charging area 61. Alternatively, the stack of layers 17 may be embedded within the flexible wrap 15 such that the outer surface 49 of the flexible cover 13 within the wireless charging area 61 is coplanar with the outer surface 49 around the wireless charging area 61.

[0066] Figure 5 shows an enlarged perspective view of the stacked layers 17, with the flexible wrap 15 and outer reinforcing layer 53 omitted. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the stacked layers 17 include an inner reinforcing layer 60, an antenna coil 55, an electromagnetic shielding layer 57, and a heat dissipation layer 59. The inner reinforcing layer 60, the antenna coil 55, the electromagnetic shielding layer 57, and the heat dissipation layer 59 overlap each other at least partially.

[0067] An exemplary first layer arrangement of the layers of the flexible cover 13 within the wireless charging area 61 is shown in Figure 6 along the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. As shown in Figure 6, the layer stack 17 is completely embedded between the inner layer 51 and the outer layer 52 of the flexible wrap 15. The layer stack 17 includes an outer reinforcing layer 53, an antenna coil 55, an electromagnetic shielding layer 57, a heat dissipation layer 59, and an inner reinforcing layer 60. These layers are stacked directly on each other in this order along the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13, starting with the outer layer 52. A binder, such as an adhesive, may be applied between some or all of these layers.

[0068] As already mentioned above, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the layer arrangement shown in Figure 6. In particular, either the inner reinforcing layer 60 or the outer reinforcing layer 53 may be omitted. Furthermore, the inner reinforcing layer 60 may be merged with the inner layer 51. For example, the inner reinforcing layer 60 may be merged with the inner layer 51 such that the inner reinforcing layer 60 forms at least a portion of the inner surface 47. In this case, it is preferable that the inner reinforcing layer 60 is coplanar with the rest of the inner layer 51. Additionally, or by other means, the outer reinforcing layer 53 may be merged with the outer layer 52. For example, the outer reinforcing layer 53 may be merged with the outer layer 52 such that the outer reinforcing layer 53 forms at least a portion of the outer surface 49. In this case, it is preferable that the outer reinforcing layer 53 is coplanar with the rest of the outer layer 52.

[0069] Figure 7 shows an exemplary second layer arrangement of the flexible cover 13 within the wireless charging area 61, along the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. Except for the differences described below, the above description of the first layer arrangement also applies to the second layer arrangement.

[0070] As shown in Figure 7, the stack of layers 17 may additionally include a display 54. The display 54 is positioned as an upper layer of the stack of layers 17, or at least partially embedded in a lower layer, such as an outer reinforcing layer 53. In the fully embedded state shown in Figure 7, the display 54 is sandwiched between the outer layer 52 and the outer reinforcing layer 53. In this state, the thickness and material of the outer layer 52 are selected to conceal the display 54 so that the electronic components forming the display 54 are not visible from the outside of the flexible cover 13. At the same time, the thickness and material of the outer layer 52 are selected to allow light to pass through it, thereby providing information to the user. For example, the outer layer 52 may be a translucent, porous, or reflective layer (or a combination thereof). The outer layer 52 may include fabric, leather, synthetic leather, suede, synthetic suede, velvet material, felt-like material, fibrous material, fur or synthetic fur-like material, multilayer 3D printed layer, embossed layer or polyurethane (PU) material, or a combination thereof.

[0071] Polycarbonate (PC), stainless steel, or aluminum alloy may be used as an exemplary material for either of the reinforcing layers 53 and 60 described above. These materials provide a stable support structure for the antenna coil 55. In particular, including at least one reinforcing layer 53, 60 prevents the antenna coil 55 from bending, folding, creasing, or becoming distorted. Otherwise, a bent, folded, or distorted coil can lead to a significant decrease in the efficiency of radio power transmission and may result in the breakage or rupture of one or more windings of the coil, which can cause malfunctions and pose a risk of electric shock and fire.

[0072] To improve heat dissipation, the heat dissipation layer 59 contains graphite, aluminum, copper, silver, or gold (or a combination thereof). For optimal heat dissipation, it is preferable that the heat dissipation layer 59 contains graphite.

[0073] The tests examined sets of different material combinations in relation to their effects on the efficiency of wireless power transmission. The tests were conducted at room temperature. In the tests, a DC voltage was supplied to the transmitter board and a load was connected to the receiver board. The input DC voltage and current, as well as the output DC voltage and current, were measured.

[0074] The test results are shown in Figure 8. The first layer configuration (shown in Figure 6) was applied as the layer configuration to be investigated. For each set, the inner layer 51 and outer layer 52 were made of cloth. A 20uH antenna was used as the antenna coil 55 for each set. Furthermore, a 1mm thick nanocrystalline layer was used as the electromagnetic shielding layer 57 for each set.

[0075] The diagram shown in Figure 8 illustrates the power transmission efficiency of the receiving antenna coil according to the load current. The materials and layer thicknesses (in mm) tested for the outer reinforcement layer 53, inner reinforcement layer 60, and heat dissipation layer 59 are shown in Table 1 below. [Table 1]

[0076] As is clear from the test results shown in Figure 8, applying stainless steel as the material for either the reinforcing layers 53 or 60 significantly reduces charging efficiency. In particular, stainless steel (as well as aluminum alloys) can draw additional current from the transmitter, resulting in extra power loss from the power path between the transmitter and receiver and additional undesirable heat generation. Furthermore, the test results show that the thicker the graphite layer of the heat dissipation layer 59, the better the charging efficiency. Graphite reduces the resistance of the receiver and therefore improves transmission efficiency.

[0077] The electromagnetic shielding layer 57 may include a nanocrystalline material or FeCo 50 (or a combination thereof). These materials help concentrate the magnetic field generated during wireless power transmission. In particular, as described above, the flexible cover 13 is wrapped around the case body 31 during use. Generally, the case body 31 is made of an aluminum alloy. Such materials significantly reduce charging efficiency. Therefore, the electromagnetic shielding layer 57 is provided below the antenna coil 55, i.e., between the case body 31 and the antenna coil 55. The electromagnetic shielding layer 57 extends over an area that covers at least the portion of the case body 31 exposed to the antenna coil 55. Preferably, the electromagnetic shielding layer 57 extends over an area that covers at least the entire portion of the case body 31 that may be exposed to the wireless charging transmitter.

[0078] As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the mounting portion 19 of the flexible cover 13 comprises a plurality of mounting means 21, 23, and 25. In the embodiments shown in these figures, the mounting portion 19 comprises three mounting means 21, 23, and 25. However, the present invention is not limited to this number of mounting means.

[0079] As shown in Figure 4, the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 may be supported by a second reinforcing element 65. The second reinforcing element 65 may be made of, for example, a plastic material. Providing the second reinforcing element 65 fixes the relative positioning of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25. Furthermore, providing the second reinforcing element 65 facilitates handling for attaching the flexible cover 13 to and removing it from the charging or retaining case 31.

[0080] For each of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25, corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71 are provided to the charging or retaining case 31, respectively. The mounting means 21, 23, and 25 and their corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71 are configured so that the flexible cover 13 can be reversibly attached to the charging or retaining case 31. Such reversible attachment can be achieved, for example, by snap-fit ​​and press-fit structures and mechanisms, hook-and-loop fasteners, magnets, or metal structures susceptible to magnetic interaction. The mounting means 21, 23, and 25 do not necessarily have to be equal to one another.

[0081] According to certain aspects of the present invention, the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 form a self-aligning structure. The self-aligning structure prevents or deters the user from mounting the flexible cover 13 to the case body 31 in the wrong orientation. Otherwise, wireless charging would be impossible.

[0082] Figures 9-14 provide a non-exhaustive number of examples of self-aligning structures. Each of Figures 9-14 is a bottom view, i.e., the flexible cover 13 as seen from a side facing the case body 31, with the flexible cover 13 attached to the case body 31 and wrapped around the case body 31 (as shown in Figure 1), along the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. In each of Figures 9-14, the dashed line indicates the plane of symmetry 300 of the flexible cover 13. The plane of symmetry 300 is parallel to the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. Furthermore, in each of Figures 9-14, the dashed line indicates the arrangement direction 400 along which the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 are arranged. The arrangement direction 400 is perpendicular to the plane of symmetry 300.

[0083] In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 are magnets. The direction in which each magnet is polarized is parallel to the plane of symmetry 300 and parallel to the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. In other words, the magnetic field lines of each mounting means 21, 23, and 25 extend parallel to the plane of symmetry 300, perpendicular to the arrangement direction 400, and parallel to the thickness direction 200. The self-aligning structure is established by the polarity of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25. In particular, the north poles of two adjacent mounting means 21 and 23 are located on the same side when viewed along the thickness direction 200. The south pole of the remaining mounting means 25 is located on the side where the north poles of the two adjacent mounting means 21 and 23 are located. Thus, the polarity of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 is asymmetric with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. The corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71 are polarized so that the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 are attracted to the flexible cover 13 when it is mounted to the case body 31 in the correct orientation. Therefore, if a user attempts to engage the flexible cover 13 incorrectly, the flexible cover 13 cannot be pushed toward the case body 31 so that it is mounted to the case body 31 in the wrong orientation.

[0084] In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 are magnets. The direction in which each magnet is polarized is parallel to the arrangement direction 400 and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry 300. Therefore, the magnetic field lines of each mounting means 21, 23, and 25 extend parallel to the arrangement direction 400 and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry 300. The self-aligning structure is established by the polarity of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25. In particular, the magnetic field lines of two adjacent mounting means 21 and 23 of the three mounting means 21, 23, and 25 are shown in the same direction when viewed along the arrangement direction 400. For example, in Figure 10, the magnetic field lines of adjacent mounting means 21 and 23 point to the right. The magnetic field lines of the remaining mounting means 25 point to the opposite side, i.e., to the left in Figure 10. Thus, the polarity of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 is asymmetric with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. The corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71 are polarized so that the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 are attracted to the flexible cover 13 when it is mounted to the case body 31 in the correct orientation. Therefore, if a user attempts to engage the flexible cover 13 incorrectly, the flexible cover 13 cannot be pushed toward the case body 31 so that it is mounted to the case body 31 in the wrong orientation.

[0085] In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 each have a snap-fit ​​structure configured to engage with corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71, respectively. The mounting means 21, 23, and 25 shown in Figure 11 are the same size but are arranged along the mounting direction 400 in an asymmetrical manner with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the outer mounting means 21 and 25 are at the same distance from the right and left edges of the flexible cover 13 when viewed along the mounting direction 400. In addition, the mounting means 23 located between them is positioned closer to the left mounting means 25 than to the right mounting means 21. Thus, the positioning of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 is asymmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. The corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71 are positioned correspondingly on the case body 31. Thus, the flexible cover 13 can only be attached to the case body 31 when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented relative to the case body 31.

[0086] Similar to Figure 11, the embodiment shown in Figure 12 establishes a self-aligning structure through the asymmetrical positioning of mounting means 21, 23, and 25 with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. In this example, the mounting means 23, located between the right and left mounting means 21 and 25 respectively, are positioned symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. However, the right mounting means 21 is further from the right edge of the flexible cover 13 than the left mounting means 25 is further from the left edge of the flexible cover 13. Thus, the positioning of mounting means 21, 23, and 25 is asymmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. The corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71 are positioned correspondingly on the case body 31. Thus, the flexible cover 13 can only be attached to the case body 31 when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented with respect to the case body 31.

[0087] In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, the self-aligning structure is established through the dimensional setting and positioning of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25. As shown in Figure 13, when measured along the arrangement direction 400, the length 230 of the central mounting means 23 is shorter than the length 210 of the mounting means 21 located on the right side. Furthermore, the length 230 is shorter than the length 250 of the mounting means 25 located on the left side. In addition, the position of the mounting means 23 located between the mounting means 21 and 25 is positioned asymmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. The corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71 are dimensionally set and positioned on the case body 31. Thus, the flexible cover 13 can only be attached to the case body 31 when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented relative to the case body 31.

[0088] In the embodiment shown in Figure 14, the self-aligning structure is established through the dimensional setting of the mounting means 21, 23, and 25. As shown in Figure 14, when measured along the arrangement direction 400, the length 230 of the central mounting means 23 is longer than the length 250 of the mounting means 25 located on the left side. Furthermore, the length 250 is longer than the length 210 of the mounting means 21 located on the right side. The corresponding parts 67, 69, and 71 are dimensionally set and positioned on the case body 31. Thus, the flexible cover 13 can only be attached to the case body 31 when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented relative to the case body 31.

[0089] In addition to the embodiments illustrated in Figures 9-14 and described above, the mounting means 21, 23, and 25 may also be established by snap-fit ​​elements. Furthermore, the type of mounting means does not necessarily have to be the same for all mounting means 21, 23, and 25. For example, one of the mounting means may include a magnet, and the remaining mounting means may be formed by snap-fit ​​elements, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other reversible mounting mechanisms. In addition, the self-aligning structures described above may also be combined. That is, the self-aligning structures may be established by any combination of sizing, shaping, positioning, or polarization of the mounting means.

[0090] As further shown in Figures 3 and 4, the flexible cover 13 is provided with an electrical interface 73. The electrical interface 73 may comprise pogo pins attached to the second reinforcing element 65. The electrical interface 73 can be electrically connected to the antenna coil 55, for example, by a flexible printed circuit board 75. The flexible printed circuit board 75 may be integrated with the flexible wrap 15. The antenna coil 55 can itself be part of the flexible printed circuit board 75.

[0091] The charging or holding case 11 may further include a wireless charging circuit (not shown). The wireless charging circuit may include a rectifier circuit for converting AC power to DC power. The wireless charging circuit may further include a communication module for communicating with a wireless charging transmitter.

[0092] The case body 31 is provided with an electrical interface (not shown) on the case side. When the flexible cover 13 is attached to the case body 31, the electrical interface 73 is electrically connected to the electrical interface on the case side.

[0093] In combination with a suitable wireless charging station, the antenna coil 55 may charge the rechargeable or retained case battery 35. For example, the antenna coil 55 receives an AC wireless signal from a wireless charging transmitter. The received AC power is converted to DC power by the rectifier circuit of the wireless charging circuit. The converted DC power is transmitted to the battery charger IC via the electrical interface 73 to charge the rechargeable or retained case battery 35.

[0094] The charging or retaining case battery 35 supplies power to the master control unit (MCU). The charging or retaining case battery 35 may also supply power to other modules, such as a heating module.

[0095] The MCU may check the electrical connection between the electrical interface 73 and the electrical interface on the case side. For example, the wireless charging circuit may be an IC, which additionally includes a communication circuit for reporting wireless charging activity to the MCU.

[0096] When the display 54 is provided, the MCU may instruct the display 54 to provide information regarding the charging status. The MCU may instruct the display 54 to indicate the capacity level of the charging or holding case battery 35, the charging method, or the progress of charging (or any combination thereof). For example, under normal conditions, in the case of a wireless charging event, the MCU may instruct the display 54 to display information indicating that wireless charging is turned on.

[0097] If the antenna coil 55 and the wireless charging transmitter are not properly aligned, the receiving IC may have a low pin signal indicating that communication is not functioning correctly. That is, before power transmission, the wireless power transmitter sends a pin signal to check if there is a wireless charging receiver. In the case of a low pin signal, the MCU may instruct the display 54 to show information indicating that wireless charging is on but wireless charging is not functioning correctly. For example, the information shown may indicate that the charging area 61 is not properly positioned.

[0098] The MCU may sample the temperature of the antenna coil 55. Additionally, or by other means, the MCU may sample the temperature of the flexible cover 13. The temperature may be detected by a thermistor. The thermistor may be provided to the flexible cover 13 or electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board 75. The output of the thermistor may be converted by an analog-to-digital converter. The sampled temperature allows the MCU to control the charging current; for example, if the temperature of the flexible cover 13 becomes too high, the MCU may send a command to the battery charger IC to reduce the charging current, and vice versa. The MCU may also sample the charging current and voltage of the charging or retaining case battery 35 to monitor the state of the charging or retaining case battery 35.

[0099] For example, immediately after a user has finished using the aerosol generator 3, the device 3 may still be hot. If the user recharges the device 3 in this state, the charging process will generate even more thermal energy. Therefore, the aerosol generator 3 or the charging or holding case 11 may overheat, thereby creating risks to user safety, battery life, and lifecycle.

[0100] Therefore, the thermistor can regulate the power delivered to the battery. In particular, the MCU may request temperature measurements of the antenna coil 55 and / or the flexible cover 13. An analog-to-digital converter is used to convert the voltage generated by a voltage divider circuit consisting of the thermistor and another resistor into a digital value that can be processed by the MCU to determine the temperature. If the temperature inside the flexible cover 13 is above a threshold (e.g., 60°C), the MCU will instruct the charger IC to reduce the charging current. If the temperature inside the flexible cover is below the threshold, the MCU will instruct the charger IC to increase the charging current. Thus, the normal operating temperature can be set in the range of 0°C to 60°C.

Claims

1. A flexible cover for a charging or holding case of an aerosol generator, A mounting portion for detachably attaching the cover to the charging or holding case, It comprises a rigid section that includes layers, A flexible cover in which the stacked layers include an antenna coil for wirelessly receiving power for wireless charging of the charging or holding case, a heat dissipation layer, and an electromagnetic shielding layer.

2. The heat dissipation layer has the following characteristics: a. The heat dissipation layer comprises a metal, preferably aluminum, copper, silver, and / or gold. b. The heat dissipation layer contains graphite, c. The heat dissipation layer is made of graphite, d. The cover according to claim 1, comprising at least one of the following: the thickness of the heat dissipation layer is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.5 mm.

3. The electromagnetic shielding layer has the following characteristics: a. The electromagnetic shielding layer comprises a nanocrystalline material and / or an FeCo50 alloy. b. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the thickness of the electromagnetic shielding layer is in the range of 0.01 mm to 1 mm, comprising at least one of these.

4. The stacking of the aforementioned layers has the following characteristics: a. The reinforcing layer includes metal and / or plastic material, b. The reinforcing layer includes polycarbonate (PC), aluminum alloy, and / or stainless steel. c. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a reinforcing layer having at least one of the thicknesses of the reinforcing layer being in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

5. The aforementioned antenna coil has the following characteristics: a. The antenna coil is bonded to a pressure-sensitive adhesive. b. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising at least one of the following: the thickness of the antenna coil is about 1 mm.

6. When the layers are viewed from the outside of the cover in the thickness direction of the cover, with the cover facing outward when attached to the charging case or retaining case, they are in the following order: a. Outer reinforcement layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, inner reinforcement layer; b. Antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, reinforcing layer; c. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein it is made up of a reinforcing layer, an antenna coil, an electromagnetic shielding layer, or a heat dissipation layer.

7. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the stack of the layers further includes electronic components configured to provide information to a user, and the electronic components include a display screen and / or LEDs.

8. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the electronic components are arranged on top of the stack of layers when viewed from the inside of the cover in the thickness direction of the cover, and the inside of the cover is configured to face the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case.

9. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a flexible wrap configured to be reversibly wrapped around at least a portion of the charging or holding case, wherein the stack of layers is fixed to the flexible wrap, preferably partially embedded therein, and particularly preferably completely embedded therein.

10. The aforementioned flexible wrap has the following characteristics: a. An inner layer configured to face the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case, b. An outer layer configured to be exposed to the outside of the cover when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case, c. Fabric, leather, and / or polyurethane (PU) materials, d. The thickness of the inner layer and / or outer layer is in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm. e. The stack of the aforementioned layers is sandwiched between the inner layer and the outer layer. f. The antenna coil, the heat dissipation layer, the electromagnetic shielding layer, and the reinforcing layer are merged with either the inner layer or the outer layer. g. The cover according to claim 9, comprising at least one of the inner layer and the outer layer being translucent, porous, and / or reflective, so that a display screen and / or LEDs below can emit light through it.

11. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the mounting portion comprises a self-aligning structure configured to prevent misalignment between the cover and the charging or holding case.

12. The cover according to claim 11, wherein the self-aligning structure includes at least one mounting means, which is a magnet, a metal structure susceptible to magnetic interaction, a snap-fit ​​structure, and / or a press-fit structure.

13. A charging or holding case for an aerosol generator, wherein the charging or holding case comprises the cover described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A method for wireless charging of a charging or holding case for an aerosol generator, a. Attaching a cover to the charging or holding case, wherein the cover is the cover described in any of claims 1 to 12, b. A method comprising wirelessly transmitting power to the antenna coil of the cover.

15. Use of the cover according to any one of claims 1 to 12 for wireless charging of the charging or holding case.

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