Aerosol-generating system with adhesive between electrode unit and envelope

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating system (1) having a battery (2). The battery (2) comprises an electrode unit (3) and an envelope (4). An adhesive element (5) is arranged between the electrode unit (3) and the sleeve (4) for fixing the electrode unit (3) to the sleeve (4). The invention also relates to a method for producing a battery for an aerosol-generating device and to the use of an adhesive element (5) between an electrode unit (3) and an envelope (4) in an aerosol-generating system (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an aerosol generating system having a battery. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating system and the use of an adhesive in an aerosol generating system. Background Art

[0002] Known handheld electrically operated aerosol generating systems typically include an aerosol generating device including a battery, control electronics and an electric heating element for heating an aerosol generating article specifically designed for use with the aerosol generating device. Some aerosol generating systems include an associated device for holding the aerosol generating device, such as a charging device.

[0003] In prior art aerosol generating devices, soft pack batteries are used to achieve a compact design. However, because the electrodes are removably enclosed in a soft soft pack housing and the aerosol generating device is susceptible to impact when dropped by a consumer, soft pack batteries in handheld electrically operated smoking systems may suffer from electrode tab breakage and accelerated aging. Increasing mechanical robustness through rigid packaging will result in an increase in the size of the battery. Therefore, either the user experience is reduced due to the increased size of the aerosol generating device, or the battery life may be shortened. Summary of the invention

[0004] It would be preferable to provide an aerosol generating device with a battery that had a relatively long life and was small enough to be used in a highly compact aerosol generating device.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising a battery. The battery comprises an electrode unit and a casing. An adhesive element is provided between the electrode unit and the casing.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a battery for an aerosol generating system, wherein an electrode unit is provided. An adhesive element may be attached to an outer surface of the electrode unit. An envelope may be arranged around the electrode unit such that the adhesive element is in contact with the envelope.

[0007] An aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating device.

[0008] The aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating device and an accessory device. The accessory device may be a charging device or a charging case for the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may be mechanically coupled to the accessory device. The accessory device may be arranged to receive the aerosol generating device or may be adapted to receive the aerosol generating device.

[0009] The companion device may comprise a receiving cavity for receiving a part of the aerosol generating device or the entire aerosol generating device therein.

[0010] The battery may be located in the aerosol generating device or in the associated device.

[0011] The battery may be located within the aerosol generating device, and the system may further comprise one or more second batteries located within the companion device.The one or more second batteries may comprise an electrode unit and a casing, wherein the adhesive element is disposed between the electrode unit and the casing.

[0012] The one or more second batteries may be at least one of the same structure, the same shape and / or the same material as the battery in / for the aerosol generating device. The one or more second batteries may be of a larger size and / or have a higher storage capacity to enable several charging cycles of the battery of the aerosol generating device.

[0013] The companion device may comprise an electrical connection port for engaging with an electrical connection port of the aerosol generating device, preferably for charging a battery of the aerosol generating device.

[0014] The adhesive element may enable fixation of the electrode unit to the envelope.

[0015] Adhesive elements may be used to limit movement of the electrode unit relative to the envelope.

[0016] The adhesive element may comprise one or more of styrene-isoprene block copolymers, acrylates, silicone rubber and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The modified polypropylene may have an initial adhesion greater than or equal to 0.1 Newton / mm and greater than or equal to 0.3 Newton / mm after heating, particularly hot pressing. The adhesive material may withstand temperatures of up to 30 to 40 degrees Celsius. The adhesive material may be corrosion resistant.

[0017] The electrode unit may be formed by one or more electrode assemblies. Each electrode assembly comprises two electrodes, in particular a cathode and an anode, and a separator arranged between the electrodes.

[0018] The electrodes and separator may be in the form of sheet material. The separator may be a single layer of polymer material. The separator may include multiple layers of polymer material.

[0019] The electrode unit also includes an electrolyte. The electrolyte may be disposed between the electrode and the separator.

[0020] The one or more electrode assemblies may be wound around the longitudinal direction to form a plurality of windings. The bonding element may be arranged to connect at least the last winding with the penultimate winding.

[0021] The main extension direction of the electrode unit (i.e. the direction in which the electrode unit has its maximum length) may be in the longitudinal direction. The transverse direction may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The circumferential direction may be defined around the longitudinal direction. In an upright orientation of the aerosol generating device, the longitudinal direction may be the height direction, and the transverse direction may be the horizontal direction. Any indications below about "upper", "top", "lower" and "bottom" are height directions relative to the longitudinal direction.

[0022] The electrode unit may have a jelly roll shape, or may be referred to as a jelly roll.

[0023] The electrode unit can have a thickness of 2 mm to 12 mm, in particular between 7 mm and 9 mm, and preferably between 8 mm and 9 mm.

[0024] The electrode unit can have a width of between 10 mm and 50 mm, in particular between 15 mm and 30 mm and preferably between 23 mm and 24 mm.

[0025] The electrode unit may have a length of 20 mm to 80 mm, in particular between 45 and 70 mm, and preferably between 55 mm and 60 mm. The electrode assembly may be stacked in a transverse direction. The bonding element may be arranged on the outer side of the electrode unit, preferably on the circumferential surface of the electrode unit.

[0026] The adhesive may be disposed on a circumferential surface of the electrode unit.

[0027] The adhesive element may be arranged on the longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit. The adhesive element may be connected to the circumferential surface so as to connect or compress the electrode unit.

[0028] The adhesive strip or adhesive pad can apply a clamping force to the electrode unit so that the electrode assembly or winding or both of the electrode assembly and winding of the electrode unit can be connected. Connecting the electrode assembly or winding or both of the electrode assembly and winding can extend the battery life by avoiding local peaks in the current density of the electrode due to movement of the electrode assembly or winding or both of the electrode assembly and winding.

[0029] The adhesive element may be in the form of an adhesive strip or an adhesive pad. The electrode unit may be provided with at least two tabs, wherein the tabs extend from a longitudinal end face of the electrode unit. The adhesive element may be arranged between the tabs.

[0030] The tab may extend across a longitudinal end surface of the sleeve.

[0031] In particular, the tab enables current to flow to or from the electrode.The tab may be integrally formed with the electrode or directly attached to the electrode.

[0032] In particular, the battery comprises at least two terminals, wherein at least a portion of the terminals are accessible from outside the envelope for connecting the electrode unit to the circuit of the aerosol generating device.

[0033] In particular, the cathode and the anode are each provided with one or more tabs, and wherein the first terminal is attached or integrally connected to the one or more tabs of the cathode, and the second terminal is attached or integrally connected to the one or more tabs of the anode.

[0034] The binder may be in contact with the electrode.

[0035] The adhesive may extend across edges of longitudinal end surfaces of the electrode unit.

[0036] The adhesive may be in contact with the envelope.

[0037] The adhesive elements may be in the form of glue dots.

[0038] The adhesive element may include a substrate layer. The substrate layer may be at least partially coated with an adhesive. The substrate layer may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and / or polyimide. This may improve high temperature resistance.

[0039] At least a portion of at least one side of the base layer may be coated with an adhesive.

[0040] The adhesive element may be a double-sided adhesive element. At least a portion of each side of the substrate layer may be coated with an adhesive. The first coated side portion may be in contact with the electrode unit, preferably in contact with the circumferential surface of the electrode unit. The second coated side portion may be in contact with the envelope.

[0041] The double-sided adhesive element can have a thickness of 0.01 mm to 0.07 mm, in particular between 0.02 mm and 0.5 mm and preferably between 0.03 and 0.04 mm.

[0042] The double-sided adhesive element can have a width of 5 mm to 40 mm, in particular between 10 mm and 30 mm and preferably between 15 mm and 25 mm.

[0043] The double-sided adhesive element can have a length of 20 to 80 mm, in particular between 30 and 70 mm and preferably between 42 and 48 mm.

[0044] The aerosol generating system may further comprise a second adhesive element. The second adhesive element may be attached across the longitudinal end face of the electrode unit so as to connect or compress the electrode unit. The second adhesive element may be arranged between the tabs of the electrode unit, on the bottom longitudinal end face of the electrode unit, or on the edge of the upper longitudinal end face of the electrode unit.

[0045] The second adhesive element may be a single-sided adhesive element.

[0046] The second bonding element may have a thickness of 5 to 30 micrometers, in particular between 10 and 20 micrometers, and preferably between 14 and 18 micrometers.

[0047] The second adhesive element can have a width of 5 mm to 40 mm, in particular between 10 mm and 25 mm and preferably between 13 mm and 17 mm.

[0048] The second adhesive element can have a length of more than 25 mm, in particular between 25 mm and 50 mm and preferably between 28 mm and 40 mm.

[0049] The envelope may be a packaging for the electrode unit.

[0050] The envelope may partially or completely enclose the electrode unit.

[0051] At least the edges of the envelope may be sealed.

[0052] The envelope may include a protective layer and a packaging layer, wherein the protective layer is arranged between the packaging layer and the electrode unit. The adhesive may be in contact with the protective layer. The protective layer may be non-conductive.

[0053] The packaging layer may be made of a soft or flexible or soft and flexible material such as a foil.

[0054] The packaging layer may include one or more of modified polypropylene acrylate, silicone rubber and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The modified polypropylene may have an initial adhesion of greater than or equal to 0.1 Newton / mm, and after heating, especially hot pressing, has an initial adhesion of greater than or equal to 0.3 Newton / mm.

[0055] The protective layer may be provided with an adhesive or include an adhesive. The adhesive of the protective layer may be less viscous than the adhesive of the adhesive element.

[0056] The adhesive of the protective layer or the bonding element or the protective layer and the bonding element may include a styrene-isoprene block copolymer, wherein the styrene-isoprene block copolymer is composed of hard segments and soft segments. A higher ratio of soft segments to hard segments can provide stronger adhesion. The ratio of soft segments to hard segments in the protective layer can be lower than the ratio in the bonding element.

[0057] After heating, preferably heat pressing, the adhesion of the protective layer may be increased to within about 10% of the adhesion of the adhesive element.

[0058] The adhesive of the protective layer can be activated at a temperature above ambient temperature, preferably between 50 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, in particular between 70 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius.

[0059] The adhesive of the protective layer may have a smaller adhesive force than the adhesive of the adhesive element. The smaller adhesive force may facilitate the assembly of the battery, in particular, facilitate wrapping the electrode unit in the envelope with the adhesive element.

[0060] The intermediate layer may be disposed between the packaging layer and the protective layer. The protective layer may include polypropylene, the intermediate layer may include aluminum, and the packaging layer may include nylon.

[0061] In some examples, the envelope may include three, four, five or more layers. From the outer layer toward the inner layer in contact with the electrode unit, the layers of the envelope may be two or more of the following in the corresponding order: a nylon layer, an adhesive layer, a moisture impermeable layer including aluminum, an adhesive layer, and a non-conductive layer including polypropylene.

[0062] The outer side of the electrode unit may be partially or completely formed by the electrode.

[0063] The battery may be configured to supply power for aerosol generation.

[0064] The battery may be configured to supply power to the heating element for aerosol generation.

[0065] The battery may be a pouch cell, preferably having a cylindrical or prismatic shape.

[0066] The battery may be a secondary battery, in particular a lithium secondary battery comprising at least one of the following: lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, lithium-nickel-cobalt-aluminum oxide and lithium-cobalt oxide.

[0067] In other examples, the battery may include at least one of the following: lithium iron phosphate, lithium-nickel-cobalt-aluminum oxide, lithium-cobalt oxide, lithium-manganese oxide, lithium-nickel-manganese oxide, and lithium-manganese-cobalt oxide. In still other examples, the battery may include at least one of the following: lithium sulfur; lithium metal. In still other examples, the battery may be a sodium secondary battery or a solid-state battery.

[0068] The method may further include inserting the electrode unit into the envelope.

[0069] The method may further include wrapping the envelope around the electrode unit.The battery may include a protective layer and a packaging layer, wherein the protective layer may be wrapped to face the electrode unit.

[0070] The method may further comprise heating the battery so that the protective layer increases its adhesive properties.The battery may be heated above ambient temperature, preferably between 50 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, in particular between 70 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius.

[0071] The method may further include sealing an opening for the tab of the sleeve.

[0072] The method may further include attaching a second adhesive element across the longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit to connect or compress the electrode unit. The second adhesive element may be arranged between the tabs of the electrode unit, arranged on the bottom longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit, or arranged on the edge of the upper longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit.

[0073] The second adhesive element may be a single-sided adhesive element.The second adhesive element may have a thickness of 5 to 30 micrometers, in particular between 10 and 20 micrometers, and preferably between 14 and 18 micrometers.

[0074] The second adhesive element can have a width of 5 mm to 40 mm, in particular between 10 mm and 25 mm and preferably between 13 mm and 17 mm.

[0075] The second adhesive element can have a length of more than 25 mm, in particular between 25 mm and 50 mm and preferably between 28 mm and 40 mm.

[0076] The electrode unit can be formed by one or more electrode assemblies, the one or more electrode assemblies comprising two electrodes, in particular a cathode and an anode, and a separator arranged between the electrodes, the electrodes and the separator can be in the form of sheet material, and providing the electrode unit can include at least one of the following: winding one or more electrode assemblies around a longitudinal direction to form a plurality of windings, or stacking the electrode assemblies along a transverse direction.

[0077] The method may further include connecting the last winding with the penultimate winding using an adhesive element, preferably by arranging the adhesive element so as to overlap between the last winding and the penultimate winding on a circumferential surface of the electrode unit.

[0078] An aerosol generating system or an aerosol generating device may be used to generate an aerosol comprising nicotine.

[0079] An aerosol-generating system may comprise an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate comprising nicotine.

[0080] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the use of an adhesive element between an electrode unit and a casing in an aerosol generating device for attaching the electrode unit to the casing.

[0081] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples and embodiments is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

[0082] Example Ex1: An aerosol generating system comprising a battery, wherein the battery comprises an electrode unit and a casing, wherein an adhesive element is disposed between the electrode unit and the casing.

[0083] Example Ex2: An aerosol generating system according to Ex1, wherein the electrode unit is formed by one or more electrode assemblies comprising two electrodes, in particular a cathode and an anode, and a separator arranged between the electrodes.

[0084] Example Ex3: An aerosol generating system according to Ex2, wherein the electrodes and the separator are in the form of sheet materials.

[0085] Example Ex4: The aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the electrode unit further comprises an electrolyte.

[0086] Example Ex5: An aerosol generating system according to Ex4, wherein the electrolyte is disposed between the electrode and the separator.

[0087] Example Ex6: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the one or more electrode assemblies are wound around the longitudinal direction to form a plurality of windings, and wherein the bonding element is arranged to connect at least the last winding with the second to last winding.

[0088] Example Ex7: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the electrode unit has a jelly roll shape.

[0089] Example Ex8: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex2 to Ex7, wherein the electrode assembly is stacked along a lateral direction, and wherein the bonding element is arranged on an outer side of the electrode unit, preferably on a circumferential face of the electrode unit.

[0090] Example Ex9: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein an adhesive is arranged on a circumferential surface of the electrode unit.

[0091] Example Ex10: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the adhesive element is arranged on a longitudinal end face of the electrode unit, wherein the adhesive element is connected to the circumferential face so as to connect or compress the electrode unit.

[0092] Example Ex11: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adhesive element is in the form of an adhesive strip or an adhesive pad.

[0093] Example Ex12: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the electrode unit is provided with at least two tabs, wherein the tabs extend from a longitudinal end face of the electrode unit, and wherein the adhesive element is arranged between the tabs.

[0094] Example Ex13: An aerosol generating system according to example Ex12, any one of the preceding examples, wherein the tab extends through a longitudinal end surface of the envelope.

[0095] Example Ex14: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex2 to Ex13, wherein the battery comprises at least two terminals, wherein at least a portion of the terminals are accessible from outside the enclosure for connecting the electrode unit to a circuit of the aerosol generating system.

[0096] Example Ex15: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the cathode and the anode are each provided with one or more tabs, and wherein a first terminal is attached and / or collects one or more tabs of the cathode, and a second terminal is attached and / or collects one or more tabs of the anode.

[0097] Example Ex16: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the adhesive is in contact with the electrode.

[0098] Example Ex17: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex2 to Ex16, wherein the adhesive extends across the edge of the longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit.

[0099] Example Ex 18: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adhesive is in contact with the envelope.

[0100] Example Ex 19: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adhesive elements are in the form of glue dots.

[0101] Example Ex20: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adhesive element comprises a substrate layer, wherein the substrate layer is at least partially coated with an adhesive.

[0102] Example Ex21: An aerosol generating system according to example Ex20, wherein at least a portion of at least one side of the substrate layer is coated with the adhesive.

[0103] Example Ex22: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein at least a portion of each side of the base layer is coated with the adhesive, wherein a first coated side portion is in contact with the electrode unit, preferably in contact with a circumferential surface of the electrode unit, and a second coated side portion is in contact with the envelope.

[0104] Example Ex23: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the envelope is a packaging of the electrode unit.

[0105] Example Ex24: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the envelope partially or completely encloses the electrode unit.

[0106] Example Ex25: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the edges of the envelope are sealed.

[0107] Example Ex26: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the envelope comprises a protective layer and a packaging layer, wherein the protective layer is arranged between the packaging layer and the electrode unit, and wherein the adhesive is in contact with the protective layer, wherein the protective layer is non-conductive, and optionally wherein the protective layer is provided with an adhesive or comprises an adhesive, wherein the adhesive of the protective layer has a smaller adhesive force than the adhesive of the adhesive element.

[0108] Example Ex27: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the packaging layer is made of a soft and / or flexible material, such as a foil, in particular an aluminium foil.

[0109] Example Ex29: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex26 to Ex29, wherein the adhesive of the protective layer is activatable at a temperature above ambient temperature, preferably between 50 and 300 degrees Celsius, in particular between 70 and 150 degrees Celsius.

[0110] Example Ex30: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the outer side of the electrode unit is partially or completely formed by electrodes.

[0111] Example Ex31: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the battery is configured to supply power for aerosol generation.

[0112] Example Ex32: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the battery is configured to supply power to the heating element for aerosol generation.

[0113] Example Ex33: An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the battery is a pouch battery, preferably having a cylindrical or prismatic shape.

[0114] Example Ex34: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the aerosol generating system comprises an aerosol generating device.

[0115] Example Ex35: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the aerosol generating system comprises an aerosol generating device and a supporting device.

[0116] Example Ex36: An aerosol generating system according to the previous example, wherein the supporting device is a charging device or a charging case for the aerosol generating device.

[0117] Example Ex37: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples Ex36 to Ex37, wherein the aerosol generating device can be mechanically connected to the supporting device.

[0118] Example Ex38: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples Ex36 to Ex38, wherein the accessory device is arranged to receive the aerosol generating device or is suitable for receiving the aerosol generating device.

[0119] Example Ex39: An aerosol generating system according to the preceding example, wherein the accessory device comprises a cylindrical receiving cavity defined within a proximal portion of the accessory device for receiving at least a distal portion of the aerosol generating device therein.

[0120] Example Ex40: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the battery is located in the aerosol generating device or the supporting device.

[0121] Example Ex41: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples Ex35 to Ex39, wherein the battery is located in the aerosol generating device, and the aerosol generating system further comprises one or more second batteries located in the supporting device.

[0122] Example Ex42: An aerosol generating system according to the preceding example, wherein the one or more second batteries comprise an electrode unit and a casing, wherein an adhesive element is disposed between the electrode unit and the casing.

[0123] Example Ex43: An aerosol generating system according to the preceding example, wherein the one or more second batteries are at least one of the same in structure, shape and / or material as the batteries in / used in the aerosol generating device.

[0124] Example Ex44: An aerosol generating system according to the preceding example, wherein the one or more second batteries are of a larger size and / or have a higher storage capacity to enable several charging cycles of the batteries used in the aerosol generating device.

[0125] Example Ex45: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the aforementioned Examples Ex35 to Ex44, wherein the matching device comprises an electrical connection port, which is used to engage with the electrical connection port of the aerosol generating device, preferably for charging a battery used in the aerosol generating device.

[0126] Example Ex46: The aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, further comprising a second adhesive element, wherein the second adhesive element is attached across a longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit so as to connect or press the electrode unit.

[0127] Example Ex47: An aerosol generating system according to the previous example, wherein the second adhesive element is arranged between the tabs of the electrode unit, on the bottom longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit, or on the edge of the upper longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit.

[0128] Example Ex48: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples Ex45 to Ex47, wherein the second adhesive element is a single-sided adhesive element.

[0129] Example Ex49: A method for manufacturing a battery for an aerosol generating system, comprising the following steps:

[0130] providing an electrode unit,

[0131] attaching an adhesive element to an outer surface of the electrode unit,

[0132] A sheath is arranged around the electrode unit such that the adhesive element is in contact with the sheath.

[0133] Example Ex50: The method according to Example Ex49, further comprising inserting the electrode unit into the envelope.

[0134] Example Ex51: The method according to any one of Examples Ex49 to Ex50, wherein arranging the envelope around the electrode unit comprises wrapping the envelope around the electrode unit, wherein the battery comprises a protective layer and a packaging layer, the protective layer facing the electrode unit.

[0135] Example Ex52: The method according to any one of Examples Ex49 to Ex51, further comprising heating the battery so that the protective layer increases its viscosity.

[0136] Example Ex53: The method according to example Ex52, wherein the battery is heated above ambient temperature, in particular between 70 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius, preferably between 50 degrees Celsius and 300 degrees Celsius, in particular between 70 degrees Celsius and 150 degrees Celsius.

[0137] Example Ex54: The method according to any one of Examples Ex49 to Ex53, further comprising sealing an opening for a tab of the envelope.

[0138] Example Ex55: The method according to any one of Examples Ex49 to Ex54 also includes attaching a second adhesive element across the longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit so as to connect or compress the electrode unit, wherein the second adhesive element is arranged between the tabs of the electrode unit, on the bottom longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit, or on the edge of the upper longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit.

[0139] Example Ex56: A method according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the electrode unit is formed by one or more electrode assemblies, the one or more electrode assemblies comprising two electrodes, in particular a cathode and an anode, and a separator arranged between the electrodes, the electrodes and the separator being in the form of sheet material.

[0140] Example Ex57: The method according to any one of Examples Ex49 to Ex56, wherein providing the electrode unit comprises winding the one or more electrode assemblies around a longitudinal direction to form a plurality of windings.

[0141] Example Ex58: According to the method of any one of Examples Ex49 to Ex56, the method also includes connecting the last winding with the penultimate winding using the bonding element, preferably by arranging the bonding element so that it overlaps between the last winding and the penultimate winding on the circumferential surface of the electrode unit.

[0142] Example Ex59: Use of an adhesive element between an electrode unit and a casing for fixing the electrode unit to the casing in an aerosol generating system.

[0143] The methods according to Examples Ex49 to Ex58 can be performed with the systems according to Examples Ex1 to Ex57. The systems according to Examples Ex1 to Ex57 can be used according to Example Ex59. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0144] Several examples will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0145] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment of the invention is shown.

[0146] Figure 2 Shown according to Figure 1 Schematic perspective view of a battery of a first embodiment of an aerosol generating system in an upright orientation.

[0147] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 2 Schematic cross-sectional view of a battery.

[0148] Figure 4 A schematic side view of an unfolded electrode is shown.

[0149] Figure 5 A schematic top view of an expanded electrode having one or more tabs that can be used according to Figure 2 or Figure 3 of the battery.

[0150] Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 1 Schematic perspective view of a battery of a second embodiment of an aerosol generating system.

[0151] Figure 7 Shown according to Figure 1 Schematic perspective view of a battery of a third embodiment of an aerosol generating system.

[0152] Figure 8 Shown according to Figure 1 Schematic perspective view of a battery of a fourth embodiment of an aerosol generating system.

[0153] Fig. 9 Shown according to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a supporting device in the form of a charging shell for a fifth embodiment of an aerosol generating system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0154] refer to Figures 1 to 4 , an aerosol generating system 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention is described in conjunction with a battery 2 having an electrode unit 3 and a cover 4 for the electrode unit 3. An adhesive element 5 is provided between the electrode unit 3 and the cover 4 for fixing the electrode unit 3 to the cover.

[0155] Figure 1An aerosol generating system 1 is schematically shown in a lying position, wherein the longitudinal axis 100 extends in the horizontal direction. The aerosol generating system 1 comprises an aerosol generating device 6 and an aerosol generating article 7 for use with the aerosol generating device 1. The aerosol generating article 7 comprises an aerosol generating substrate 8 to be heated to form an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol generating article 7 is a consumable, which comprises four segments arranged sequentially in a coaxial alignment: an aerosol forming strip segment 9, a support segment 10 having a central air passage, an aerosol cooling segment 11 and a mouthpiece segment 12 comprising a filter. The aerosol forming strip segment 9 is arranged at the distal end of the article 7 and comprises a susceptor 13 and an aerosol generating substrate 8 to be heated. The mouthpiece segment 12 is arranged at the proximal end of the article 7. The support segment 10 and the aerosol cooling segment 11 are arranged in the middle. Each of the four segments may be a substantially cylindrical element having substantially the same diameter to create a strip shape of the aerosol-generating article. The four segments may be defined by an outer wrapper 14 to connect the four segments. The wrapper 14 may be made of paper.

[0156] The aerosol generating device 6 comprises a cylindrical receiving cavity defined in the proximal portion of the aerosol generating device 6 for receiving at least the distal portion of the product 7 therein. The aerosol generating device 6 also comprises a heating element 15 having an inductor for generating an alternating high frequency magnetic field. In the present embodiment, the inductor may be a spiral coil circumferentially surrounding the cylindrical receiving cavity. In an alternative embodiment, the heating element may be a resistive heating member. The coil is arranged so that the susceptor 13 of the aerosol generating product 7 is exposed to the alternating magnetic field when the product 7 is engaged with the device 1. Therefore, when the heating element 15 is activated, the susceptor 13 heats up due to eddy currents and hysteresis losses induced in the susceptor 13 by the alternating magnetic field, depending on the magnetic and electrical material properties of the susceptor. The susceptor 13 is heated until an operating temperature sufficient to vaporize the aerosol generating substrate 8 surrounding the susceptor 13 in the product 7 is reached. In the distal portion, the aerosol generating device 6 also comprises a battery 2 and a power supply electronics 16 for powering and controlling the heating process.

[0157] When the aerosol generating system 1 is in use, when a consumer draws on the mouthpiece element 12 of the article 7, air is drawn into the receiving cavity at the edge of the cavity. The airflow further extends towards the distal end of the cavity through a passage formed between the inner surface of the cylindrical cavity and the outer surface of the article 7. At the distal end of the cavity, the airflow enters the aerosol generating article 7 through the substrate element 9 and further passes through the support element 10, the aerosol cooling element 11 and the mouthpiece element 12, from which the airflow finally leaves the article 7. In the substrate element 9, vaporized material from the aerosol generating substrate 8 is entrained in the airflow. Subsequently, when passing through the support element 10, the cooling element 11 and the mouthpiece element 12, the airflow including the vaporized material cools down so as to form an inhalable aerosol, which escapes from the article 7 through the mouthpiece element 12.

[0158] Figures 2 to 3 It is shown in Figure 1 A more detailed illustration of battery 2. Figure 2 A perspective view of the battery 2 in an upright orientation is provided, wherein the longitudinal axis 100 extends in the vertical direction. Figure 3 It shows that when the battery 2 is rotated 90 degrees Figure 2 Cross section of battery 2.

[0159] As shown in the figure, the battery 2 includes an electrode unit 3 and an envelope 4 having a cavity for accommodating the electrode unit 3 .

[0160] The electrode unit 3 has the form of a jelly roll having a plurality of windings around a longitudinal axis 100. The electrode unit 3 comprises two or more tabs 16. The tabs 16 extend from an upper longitudinal end face 17 of the electrode unit 3.

[0161] Figure 2 and 3 The electrode unit 3 is formed by one or more electrode assemblies stacked or rolled along the longitudinal axis 100 .

[0162] Figure 4 Shows the formation in an expanded state according to Figure 2 and 3 An example electrode assembly 18 of an electrode unit 3.

[0163] The electrode assembly 18 includes two electrodes, namely a cathode 19 and an anode 20 .

[0164] The cathode 19 is formed of a multilayer sheet material. The multilayer sheet material of the cathode 19 includes a cathode current collector layer 21. The cathode current collector layer 21 is formed of a sheet material and includes two large surfaces relative to each other. The cathode current collector layer 21 is coated with a cathode active material on both surfaces, so that a cathode active material layer 22 is formed on both surfaces of the cathode current collector layer 21. In some examples, only one surface of the cathode current collector layer 21 may be coated with a cathode active material. Similar to the cathode 19, the anode 20 is formed of a multilayer sheet material. The multilayer sheet material of the anode 20 includes an anode current collector layer 23. The anode current collector layer 23 is formed of a sheet material and includes two large surfaces relative to each other. The anode current collector layer 23 is coated with a cathode active material on both surfaces, so that an anode active material layer 24 is formed on both surfaces of the anode current collector layer 23. In some examples, only one surface of the anode current collector layer 23 may be coated with an anode active material.

[0165] The electrode unit 3 further includes a separator 25. The separator 25 is formed of a sheet material. The separator is provided between the cathode 19 and the anode 20.

[0166] Examples of cathode current collector layer 21 are Figure 5 It is shown in a top view. Figure 5 The vertical extension of the cathode current collector layer 21 shown in Figure 2 The height of the electrode unit 3 is shown in . The horizontal extension of the cathode current collector layer 21 corresponds to the length of the cathode current collector layer 21 and is perpendicular to the vertical extension.

[0167] The anode current collector layer 23 may be formed with a structure similar to or identical to that of the cathode current collector layer 21 .

[0168] like Figure 2 One or more tabs 16 of the electrode unit 3 shown in FIG. 1 are arranged on the edge of the cathode current collector layer 21 at a distance from each other.

[0169] Return to reference Figure 2 and 3 In the rolled-up state of the electrode assembly 18 , the tabs extend from the upper longitudinal end surface 17 of the electrode unit 3 through the upper longitudinal end surface 26 of the envelope 4 .

[0170] like Figure 3 As shown in , the envelope 4 provides a cavity for the electrode unit 3 to protect the electrode unit from the surrounding environment outside the battery. The envelope 4 can be made of a soft material such as foil. In this embodiment, the envelope 4 completely encapsulates the electrode unit 3. The edges of the envelope 7 can be sealed to provide a waterproof package.

[0171] The envelope 4 includes a packaging layer 27 and a protective layer 28. The protective layer 28 is arranged between the packaging layer 27 and the electrode unit 3 and is made of a non-conductive material. The side of the protective layer 28 facing the electrode unit 3 is provided with an adhesive.

[0172] In some examples, an intermediate layer (not shown) is disposed between packaging layer 27 and protective layer 28. The protective layer comprises polypropylene, the intermediate layer comprises aluminum, and the packaging layer comprises nylon.

[0173] Between the electrode unit 3 and the protective layer 28 , an adhesive element 5 is provided.

[0174] The adhesive element 5 includes a base layer 29 having a double-sided adhesive coating. The first coated side portion 30 is adhered to the electrode unit 3, and the second coated side portion 31 is adhered to the protective layer 28. The adhesive of the protective layer 28 has a smaller adhesive force than the adhesive of the adhesive element 5, which facilitates the assembly of the battery 2, especially wrapping the electrode unit 3 in the envelope 4 with the adhesive element 5.

[0175] The substrate layer 29 is in the form of a mat and is arranged to connect at least the last winding 32 of the electrode unit 3 with the second to last winding 33, the electrode unit being in the form of a jelly roll. In other examples, the substrate layer 29 is in the form of a strip. In still other examples, the adhesive element is a glue dot.

[0176] The sleeve 4 also includes an opening 34 for receiving the tab 16. In some examples, and Figure 2 Indicated by dashed lines in FIG. 2 , the battery 12 comprises two terminals 35 , 36 for connecting to the circuit system (eg a protective circuit module) of the aerosol generating device 2 . The terminals 35 , 36 are provided on the same preferably upper longitudinal end face 26 of the envelope 4 .

[0177] The terminals 35, 36 are respectively connected to the cathode 18 to provide a positive terminal, and connected to the anode 19 to provide a negative terminal. The battery 2 may have a pouch shape. Alternatively, the battery 2 may have a cylindrical shape. The terminals 35, 36 may be arranged on the same side of the battery 2. Alternatively, the terminals 35, 36 are provided on opposite longitudinal end faces.

[0178] In other examples, the tabs 16 are folded inside the enclosure 4 and attached to the bottom end faces of the terminals 35 , 36 .

[0179] refer to Figures 6 to 8 , describes an aerosol generating device 6 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figures 1 to 4 An alternative or supplement to the battery 2 of the aerosol generating device 1 of the first embodiment shown in Figures 6 to 8 The battery 2 in FIG. 4 is provided with a second adhesive element 37 between the sheath 4 , in particular the protective layer 28 , and the electrode unit 3 .

[0180] The second adhesive element 37 may be arranged on at least one of the following: on the upper longitudinal end surface 26 of the envelope 4 between the tabs 16 of the electrode unit 3 ( Figure 6 ), the edge 38 of the upper longitudinal end surface 17 of the electrode unit 3 ( Figure 7 ), or on the bottom longitudinal end surface 39 of the electrode unit 3 ( Figure 8 ).

[0181] The second adhesive element 37 comprises a substrate layer in the form of a strip or a mat. At least the opposite end portions 40 of the substrate layer comprise an adhesive coating and adhere to a circumferential face 41 of the electrode unit 3, whereby an intermediate portion 42 between the end portions 40 of the second adhesive element 37 extends over the longitudinal end faces 17, 39 of the electrode unit 3, thereby applying a clamping force to the electrode unit 3.

[0182] In some examples, the base layer of the second adhesive element 37 has a single-sided adhesive coating extending over the entire side connected to the electrode unit 3 .

[0183] like Fig. 9 As schematically shown in FIG. 1 , the aerosol generating system 1 may further include a matching device 43 adapted to receive the aerosol generating device 6 for charging the battery 2. In particular, the matching device 43 includes a cylindrical receiving cavity defined in a proximal portion of the matching device 43 for receiving at least a distal portion of the aerosol generating device 6 therein.

[0184] The accessory device 43 includes one or more second batteries 44. Figure 2 , 3 and Figures 6 to 8 The battery 2 shown, one or more second batteries 44 include an electrode unit and a casing, wherein the bonding element is disposed between the electrode unit and the casing. In some examples, one or more second batteries may be larger in size and / or have a higher storage capacity to achieve several charging cycles of the battery 2.

[0185] The accessory device 43 comprises an electrical connection port 45 for engaging with a corresponding electrical connection port 46 of the aerosol generating device 6 to transfer electrical energy between the accessory device 43 and the aerosol generating device 1 , preferably for charging the battery 2 .

[0186] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about." Additionally, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating system comprising Battery, The battery comprises an electrode unit and a casing, The adhesive element is arranged between the electrode unit and the envelope.

2. An aerosol generating system according to the preceding claim, wherein the electrode unit is formed by one or more electrode assemblies comprising two electrodes, in particular a cathode and an anode, and a separator arranged between the electrodes.

3. An aerosol generating system according to the preceding claim, wherein the one or more electrode assemblies are wound around a longitudinal direction to form a plurality of windings, and wherein the bonding element is arranged to connect at least the last winding with the second to last winding.

4. An aerosol generating system according to claim 2, wherein the electrode assemblies are stacked along a transverse direction, and wherein the bonding element is arranged on an outer side of the electrode unit, preferably on a circumferential face of the electrode unit.

5. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adhesive element is arranged on a longitudinal end face of the electrode unit, wherein the adhesive element is connectable to the circumferential face so as to connect or compress the electrode unit.

6. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode unit is provided with at least two tabs, wherein the tabs extend from a longitudinal end face of the electrode unit, and wherein the adhesive element is arranged between the tabs.

7. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the battery comprises at least two terminals, wherein at least a portion of the terminals are accessible from outside the enclosure for connecting the electrode unit to the circuit of the aerosol generating system.

8. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adhesive element comprises a substrate layer, wherein the substrate layer is at least partially coated with an adhesive.

9. An aerosol generating system according to the preceding claim, wherein at least a portion of each side of the substrate layer is coated with the adhesive, wherein a first coated side portion is in contact with the electrode unit, preferably in contact with a circumferential surface of the electrode unit, and a second coated side portion is in contact with the envelope.

10. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the envelope comprises a protective layer and a packaging layer, wherein the protective layer is arranged between the packaging layer and the electrode unit, and wherein the adhesive is in contact with the protective layer, wherein the protective layer is non-conductive.

11. An aerosol generating system according to the preceding claim, wherein the protective layer is provided with or comprises an adhesive, wherein the adhesive of the protective layer has a lower adhesive force than the adhesive of the adhesive element.

12. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, further comprising an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate, optionally wherein the aerosol-generating substrate comprises nicotine.

13. A method of manufacturing a battery for an aerosol generating system, comprising the steps of: providing an electrode unit, attaching an adhesive element to an outer surface of the electrode unit, A sheath is arranged around the electrode unit such that the adhesive element is in contact with the sheath.

14. The method according to the previous claim further includes attaching a second adhesive element across the longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit so as to connect or compress the electrode unit, wherein the second adhesive element is arranged between the tabs of the electrode unit, on the bottom longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit, or on the edge of the upper longitudinal end surface of the electrode unit.

15. Use of an adhesive element between an electrode unit and an envelope for securing the electrode unit to the envelope in an aerosol generating system.

Images