Aerosol-generating device and method

Abstract

In accordance with the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising one or more electrical components comprising an aerosol generator component wherein the aerosol-generating device is selectively configurable to be in: an aerosol-generating mode in which the aerosol-generating device is selectively configured to generate an aerosol; generating an aerosol for inhalation by a user by providing power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component; and a discharge pattern based on the discharge input, thereby causing a battery cell of the aerosol-generating device to discharge, where the battery cell is configured to provide power to one or more of the one or more electrical components.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device. In addition, the present disclosure relates to a method. Background of the Invention

[0003] Battery cell recycling is a recycling activity aimed at reducing the amount of battery cells disposed of with household waste. Battery cells contain heavy metals and toxic chemicals, and their disposal methods are the same as household waste, raising concerns about soil and water contamination. Furthermore, battery cell recycling can help prevent future shortages of battery cell materials and enable a sustainable lifecycle for these technologies.

[0004] The aerosol-generating device is configured to heat an aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation. The aerosol-generating device includes a power supply in the form of a battery cell. The battery cell provides power for operation of the aerosol-generating device and, for example, can provide the power necessary to generate the aerosol. It may be desirable to access the battery cell for replacement and / or recycling.

[0005] Existing technology does not allow for access and removal of battery cells in a safe manner. Hazards associated with the removal of battery cells include electrical, chemical, and thermal hazards, as well as their potential interactions.

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least some of the problems mentioned above. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device and method comprising the features as set out in the claims.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating device is provided, which comprises: one or more electrical components, the one or more electrical components including an aerosol generator component, wherein the aerosol generating device can be selectively configured to be in: an aerosol generating mode, in which an aerosol for inhalation by a user is generated by supplying power from a battery cell to the aerosol generator component; and a discharge mode based on a discharge input, thereby causing the battery cell of the aerosol generating device to discharge, wherein the battery cell is configured to supply power to one or more of the one or more electrical components.

[0009] Through this configuration, the battery cells of the aerosol-generating device can be discharged (in other words, selectively and intentionally discharged). This is highly advantageous in terms of improving safety during the disassembly or recycling process, which can be performed by a disassembler (i.e., a person who disassembles the aerosol-generating device or a portion thereof, who may also be referred to as an "operator"). This configuration enables the battery cells to be discharged without requiring the disassembler to be exposed to or handle charged battery cells. Furthermore, because the disassembler does not need to handle or be exposed to charged battery cells, the risk to the disassembler due to thermal runaway of the battery cells is mitigated.

[0010] The discharge mode may cause the battery cells to be intentionally or deliberately discharged. That is, the goal, purpose, or function of the discharge mode is to discharge the battery cells. This contrasts with the aerosol generation mode, where the goal, purpose, or function is to generate aerosol. This also contrasts with the cleaning or maintenance mode, where the goal, purpose, or function is to clean or maintain components of the aerosol-generating device. For example, the cleaning or maintenance mode may include performing a "burn-off" of residue on components of the aerosol-generating device.

[0011] A discharge input may be a specific input for causing or initiating the discharge of a battery cell. This is in contrast to an input for causing or initiating aerosol generation, in which case the input is not a discharge input but rather an aerosol generation input or command. In general, a discharge input is any input that causes the aerosol generating device to enter a discharge mode, or is used to start or execute a discharge mode. A discharge input may be, for example, a button press or sequence of button presses that causes the device to enter a discharge mode, or in further examples may be achieved through connection to an external device, or may be a remote input or command. Similarly, a discharge mode may be a specific mode for executing the discharge of a battery cell. This is in contrast to a mode in which the aerosol generating device is capable of generating an aerosol or awaiting an input to generate an aerosol. Such a mode is not a discharge mode because the intention or focus of the mode is not to discharge the battery cell.

[0012] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that selective configuration of the aerosol-generating device may mean that the aerosol-generating device can be configured to operate in two different modes (e.g., at different times and / or upon command by a user, operator, or disassembler). This contrasts with conventional devices. Conventional devices typically operate to generate an aerosol (corresponding to the current aerosol generation mode), and during such operation, the battery cells may discharge due to the provision of power. However, conventional devices do not provide a further (potentially different or separate) discharge mode, the purpose of which is to facilitate the discharge of the battery cells. In contrast to conventional devices, the device described herein provides two modes: one aerosol generation mode (which may be conventional) and the other a specific discharge mode.

[0013] In one example, in an aerosol generation mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output (e.g., a non-zero aerosol output); and in a discharge mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output that is lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generation mode and / or to provide no aerosol output.

[0014] This example is very advantageous. In this way, the battery cells can thereby be discharged in a safe and controlled manner, and the convenience of the disassembler is improved. Lower aerosol output or no aerosol output may correspond to the use of reduced temperatures or currents during discharge, which has a number of associated advantages. Operating at a reduced temperature reduces the risk of overheating and / or reduces the risk of damage to the aerosol generating device or the battery cells. Extended discharge periods or extended discharge modes can be enabled. In addition, no aerosol output may correspond to the use of a discharge device, which may allow the use of higher currents, thereby facilitating faster discharge. In addition, no aerosol output may correspond to a situation where no consumables are provided, thereby avoiding the risk of overheating, burning or scorching of consumables within the device.

[0015] Furthermore, if any aerosol output is provided in discharge mode, that output may be lower than the aerosol output in aerosol generation mode. Clearly, if an aerosol is generated in discharge mode, the aerosol is not intended for inhalation by the user, and this may be indicated to and / or understood by the user. The lower aerosol output may be caused by the aerosol generating device being provided with a depleted or partially depleted consumable, or alternatively, by the discharge component (e.g., heater component) being operated such that the aerosol output is relatively low (e.g., by providing a relatively reduced current and / or by operating at a relatively low temperature compared to the aerosol generation mode temperature). Furthermore, no aerosol output may be generated if the aerosol generator component is operated at a temperature below a temperature sufficient to generate aerosol from the consumable. Furthermore, no aerosol output may be generated if power is provided to the discharge device (e.g., including a resistive load) from the battery cells.

[0016] In one example, in the discharge mode, the aerosol-generating device is configured to: sense the presence or absence of a consumable at the aerosol-generating device; and based on sensing the absence of a consumable, provide power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component.

[0017] This approach also differs from conventional operation of an aerosol-generating device to generate aerosol, which ultimately discharges the battery cells. In this example, it is sensed that the device is not provided with a consumable (e.g., no consumable is inserted into the device). The discharge mode can then be operated to provide power to the aerosol generator components, but without providing an aerosol output due to the absence of the consumable. This is advantageous because it avoids potential overheating risks or other issues that could occur if the consumable is exposed to heat for an extended period during the discharge mode. One or more sensors can be provided for such sensing.

[0018] In one example, the supply of power from the battery cells to the aerosol generator component is controlled such that the aerosol generator component operates at a temperature below an aerosol generation mode temperature.

[0019] The aerosol generation mode temperature may be the temperature of the aerosol generation mode, during which an aerosol is generated for inhalation by the user. This may, for example, exclude a preheating phase or a cooling phase. The aerosol generation mode temperature may be the temperature or temperature range at which the heater is operated to enable generation of an aerosol for inhalation by the user. The aerosol generation mode temperature may be relatively consistent compared to the temperature exhibited during the heating or cooling phases. It is advantageous for the aerosol generator component to be controlled to operate at a temperature below the aerosol generation mode temperature, as this approach facilitates discharge using the aerosol generator component while reducing the risk of overheating and / or reducing the risk of damage to the aerosol generating device or battery cells. This enables an extended discharge period or extended discharge mode.

[0020] Relatedly, the aerosol generation mode aerosol level (which may include quantity, or mass, or composition) may be an aerosol level (e.g., output level) (which may include quantity, or mass, or composition) at which the aerosol is suitable for inhalation by a user. For example, this may exclude a preheating phase and may also exclude a cooling phase. The aerosol level in aerosol generation mode may be a level or range of levels at which the heater is operated to enable generation of an aerosol for inhalation by the user. The aerosol level in aerosol generation mode may be relatively consistent compared to the level or amount that may be during a heating phase or a cooling phase. An aerosol generator component that is controlled to operate at an aerosol generation level below the aerosol generation mode level is advantageous because this approach facilitates discharge using the aerosol generator component while reducing the risk of overheating and / or reducing the risk of damage to the aerosol generating device or battery cells. This enables an extended discharge period or extended discharge mode.

[0021] In one example, the aerosol-generating device is connectable to the discharge device, and in the discharge mode, the aerosol-generating device is configured to provide power from the battery cell to the discharge device.

[0022] The discharge device will be described in further detail herein. However, regarding this feature, implementing a discharge mode that provides power to the discharge device is highly advantageous because, in some instances, a separate but connectable device can be used to facilitate the discharge of the battery cells. This means, for example, that discharge can be achieved without the provision of consumables including the aerosol generator component, and furthermore, the discharge device can enable faster discharge than would otherwise be permitted by discharging the battery via the aerosol generator component or other components of the aerosol-generating device. For example, safety can be enhanced by using a dedicated discharge device for discharge, and in some instances, the provision of the discharge device can allow for higher discharge currents than would otherwise be possible (e.g., safe) using the aerosol-generating device.

[0023] In one example, the aerosol-generating device further comprises an interface for displaying information related to the discharge mode, and wherein: the interface is configured to output an indication that the aerosol-generating device is configured to be in the discharge mode.

[0024] The interface will be described in further detail below. In short, in this manner, the interface can indicate to a user or disassembler that discharge mode is in progress. Advantageously, in instances where discharge occurs via the aerosol generator component of a consumable, or when the aerosol-generating device is provided with a consumable, the user or disassembler can thereby understand that any aerosol generated is due to the discharge mode and is not an aerosol intended for inhalation (e.g., compared to an aerosol intended for inhalation generated during aerosol generation mode). In other words, the indication of battery cell discharge can enable the user to determine that the aerosol-generating device is in discharge mode. The interface can indicate that the aerosol-generating device is in discharge mode. In this manner, as will be understood from the description provided herein, if any aerosol is generated while the aerosol-generating device is operating in discharge mode, the user will understand that the generated aerosol is not intended for inhalation (i.e., different from an aerosol generated in aerosol generation mode / during an aerosol inhalation session). It should be understood that aerosol generated during discharge mode is solely a result of discharge.

[0025] In one example, providing power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components does not result in the generation of aerosols.

[0026] In one example, power is supplied from the battery cells to one or more dedicated or specialized discharge components. These components can be independent of the aerosol-generating circuit. That is, supplying power to these components may not result in the generation of aerosols. Thus, supplying power to these components can draw energy from the battery cells without causing the generation of aerosols.

[0027] In this way, discharging the battery cells can be simplified. Furthermore, discharging the battery cells can thus be less cumbersome, more practical, or more convenient for the disassembler. Furthermore, this configuration is particularly advantageous where the activation system of the aerosol-generating device includes a puff sensor that requires air to be drawn through the aerosol-generating device in order to activate the aerosol-generating device to generate aerosol, as the requirement to activate the puff sensor can be eliminated.

[0028] Furthermore, in this manner, discharging the aerosol-generating device does not require the aerosol-generating device to include or be provided with consumables for aerosol generation. Discharging without generating aerosols may also improve safety, as the conditions for discharging the battery cells may include reduced power (e.g., reduced current when compared to aerosol generation mode) or lower temperatures than those used in aerosol generation.

[0029] In a related example, as further described herein, based on a discharge input provided at the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device may determine whether a consumable is provided to the device (e.g., inserted into a heating chamber). If the device determines that the device is not provided with a consumable (i.e., no consumable is present in the device), the device may then provide power to one or more discharge components (e.g., to a heater component).

[0030] In one example, an aerosol generating current is required to induce aerosol generation using the aerosol generating device, and in the discharge mode, a discharge current lower than the aerosol generating current and insufficient to induce aerosol generation is provided to the one or more electrical components.

[0031] In this way, the aerosol-generating device is operable to discharge without generating an aerosol. In other words, the discharge mode differs from the discharge mode in that each mode achieves a different result by performing or initiating a different function (discharging of the battery cells versus generating an aerosol).

[0032] In one instance, in an aerosol generation mode, the aerosol generating device provides an aerosol output by aerosolizing / vaporizing a given portion / mass of a consumable, while in a discharge mode, the aerosol generating device does not provide an aerosol output and / or provides an aerosol output that is significantly lower in terms of the portion / mass of the consumable than in an aerosol generation mode.

[0033] The battery cells can thereby be discharged in a safe and controlled manner, and the convenience for the disassembler is improved. Furthermore, the aerosol generation mode and the discharge mode are therefore different modes.

[0034] In one example, the provision of power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled based on one or more properties of the battery cell and / or the one or more electrical components.

[0035] In this way, the safety of the discharge process can be improved. The one or more attributes may be or may include a charge level (e.g., the charge level of the battery cell, or the charge level of an energy storage (or other) device to which the battery cell is connected). Additionally or alternatively, the attribute may be, for example, a current or voltage level of the battery cell, or the energy storage (or other) device to which the battery cell is connected. Furthermore, the one or more attributes may include temperature, such as the temperature of the battery cell and / or the temperature of one or more electrical components. By controlling the supply of power based on temperature, overheating can be prevented. Furthermore, by controlling the supply of power based on charge level, the battery cell can be discharged at a safe or appropriate rate, or discharged to a charge level that is safe for a disassembler to subsequently handle the battery cell.

[0036] The provision of power may be based on a curve that can be adjusted in real time and incorporates feedback such that the curve is based on one or more attributes.

[0037] In one example, supply of power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled to reduce a charge level of the battery cell below a threshold charge level.

[0038] In this way, the battery cell can be discharged to reduce the charge level to a level that is safe for a disassembler to handle and ultimately recycle the battery cell. The threshold charge level may be a charge level in the range of 0% to 30%, preferably 30%.

[0039] In one example, the supply of power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled to reduce the battery charge level to below a minimum charge level limit of the aerosol generating device in the aerosol generating mode.

[0040] In this way, the battery cells can be discharged to a charge level lower than that which would be achievable using the aerosol generation mode. For reliability reasons, an aerosol generating device may limit the minimum charge level of the battery cells in the aerosol generation mode. However, with this configuration, the battery cells can be discharged to a charge level lower than that which would be achievable using the aerosol generation mode, thereby improving the safety of the disassembler and reducing the risk of thermal runaway during handling of the battery cells during disassembly, repair, or maintenance. This lower charge level of the battery cells can be achieved using the discharge mode, whereas this lower charge level cannot be achieved simply using the aerosol generation mode.

[0041] In one example, the aerosol-generating device comprises a processor configured to configure the aerosol-generating device to be in the discharge mode based on the discharge input.

[0042] In this manner, the aerosol-generating device can be configured to be in a discharge mode, with the discharge mode being triggered or initiated by a discharge input. The discharge input can be a discharge instruction. The discharge instruction can be a specific action or command provided by a disassembler. The discharge instruction can be provided at the aerosol-generating device, or can be provided by a remote (or external) device. Alternatively, the discharge input can be provided by a connection (e.g., forming an electrical connection) to an external device.

[0043] In one example, the discharge input is provided by connecting a discharge device to the aerosol generating device.

[0044] The discharge device may be a device comprising one or more electrical components, by which the battery cells of the aerosol-generating device can be discharged. Connecting the discharge device to the aerosol-generating device may provide a discharge input to configure the aerosol-generating device into a discharge mode. In an example, it may be recorded at the aerosol-generating device that the discharge device is connected and the aerosol-generating device is configured into a discharge mode. Alternatively, it may not be recorded at the aerosol-generating device that the discharge device is connected and the aerosol-generating device is configured into a discharge mode, but rather the discharge mode may simply be discharging the aerosol-generating device by providing power to the one or more electrical components of the discharge device via a connection between the one or more electrical components of the discharge device.

[0045] In one example, the aerosol generating device is arranged to provide a direct electrical connection of the discharge device to the battery cell.

[0046] In this way, the life of the components of the aerosol-generating device may be increased. Furthermore, this may simplify the construction of the aerosol-generating device.

[0047] Direct electrical connection to the battery cells may be made without providing intermediate components such as one or more PCBs or any other components.

[0048] In one example, the discharge device may be provided as part of a housing of the aerosol-generating device. The discharge device may be provided as a removable housing part that replaces the aerosol-generating device. When connected to the aerosol-generating device, the discharge device may thus form part of the housing (e.g., a casing or cover) of the aerosol-generating device.

[0049] The discharge device may be integrally formed with the housing portion. That is, the housing portion may be or may provide the discharge device. In this manner, the housing portion may be electrically connected to the aerosol-generating device to facilitate discharge of the battery cells. In such an example, the existing housing portion of the aerosol-generating device may be removed and replaced with the housing portion including the discharge device. The housing portion may be electrically connected to the aerosol-generating device, thereby discharging the battery cells. Advantageously, this configuration enables discharge of the battery cells while ensuring that components of the aerosol-generating device remain protected (i.e., from user access) because the discharge device provides the housing portion to complete the housing (e.g., outer shell or cover) of the aerosol-generating device.

[0050] In one example, the one or more electrical components include an aerosol generator component and / or a resistive load. The aerosol generator component may include a heater component (which may include a resistive load that generates heat via the Joule effect). The aerosol generator component may alternatively be an atomizer or an induction heater component. The aerosol generator component may also be referred to as an aerosol engine or vapor generating unit (VGU).

[0051] In this manner, the discharge of the battery cells can be performed by supplying power from the battery cells to the aerosol generator component and / or to the resistive load. The aerosol generator component and / or the resistive load can be provided in the aerosol generating device and / or the discharge device. Preferably, the aerosol generator component is an aerosol generating component provided in the aerosol generating device. For example, the aerosol generating component can be an oven or heater, atomizer, or induction heater component of the aerosol generating device. Advantageously, in this manner, the discharge of the battery cells can be performed using existing components of the aerosol generating device, but using a specific discharge mode.

[0052] In one example, the one or more electrical components include the aerosol generator component, and the supply of power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component is controlled such that the aerosol generator component operates at a temperature below an aerosol generation temperature, for example below 180°C.

[0053] In this way, the battery cells can be discharged without generating aerosols, which can improve the convenience or practicality of the disassembler. Furthermore, advantageously, controlling the power in this way is improved, with a reduced risk of overheating of the device. Discharging in this way is possible with or without the presence of consumables (i.e., housed in the aerosol-generating device). The operating temperature of the aerosol generator components can be substantially constant during the discharge mode, or can vary over time according to a heating profile. In advantageous embodiments, a heating profile can be employed in which a target temperature is achieved and then heating is paused. This heating profile can be repeated one or more times according to a cycle or sequence. This improves safety, as it ensures that the aerosol generator components do not exceed a safe operating temperature. Furthermore, it ensures that other components of the aerosol-generating device can be reused and are not damaged during the discharge mode.

[0054] In one example, the one or more electrical components include the aerosol generator component, and the supply of power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component is controlled such that the aerosol generator component operates at a temperature in the range of 30°C to 160°C, for example 60°C.

[0055] Such temperatures advantageously ensure a balance between discharge mode time and remover safety due to exposure to component heating, while also ensuring component reusability by mitigating damage to the component.

[0056] In one example, the aerosol-generating device further comprises an interface for displaying information related to the discharge mode (as described above).

[0057] In this way, the remover can be informed that the battery cell is discharging or has discharged so that the battery cell can be accessed and handled in a safe manner.

[0058] In one example, the interface is configured to provide an indication of battery cell discharge and / or an indication of the charge level of the battery cell. In this way, a disassembler can determine that the battery cell has discharged or is discharging.

[0059] The interface may include an element configured to change or alter its characteristics based on the charge level of the battery cell. For example, the element may include a chemical that changes color based on the charge level of the battery cell.

[0060] Additionally, the interface can display information related to the temperature of one or more components (e.g., the temperature of the aerosol generator component or the resistive load). In this way, the disassembler can determine that the battery cells are substantially discharged due to the low heating temperature of the aerosol generator component or the resistive load.

[0061] In one example, the aerosol-generating device is configured to: generate or receive the discharge input based on an input at the aerosol-generating device; and / or receive the discharge input from a remote device.The input may be provided by a disassembler.

[0062] In this way, the disassembler may trigger or initiate a particular discharge mode by providing an input at the aerosol-generating device.Alternatively or additionally, the disassembler may command the discharge mode of the aerosol-generating device from a remote device such as a smartphone.

[0063] In one example, the discharge mode is distinct from the aerosol generation mode.

[0064] The discharge mode and aerosol generation mode may be separate modes that can be selected separately. Each mode has a different purpose or desired functionality: in the discharge mode, the purpose is to discharge the battery cells; in the aerosol generation mode, the purpose is to generate aerosol or to place the device in a state capable of generating aerosol. When the aerosol-generating device is in the discharge mode, no interaction with the disassembler or other user of the device may be required. Enabling or configuring the discharge mode may require confirmation from the disassembler in order to enter the discharge mode. The discharge mode and aerosol generation mode may have different characteristics, such as different minimum charge level parameters, different power parameters, and / or different temperature parameters or profiles.

[0065] While some residual aerosol may be produced in the discharge mode, such aerosol is not for inhalation and may be so indicated or understood by the disassembler, for example, through an interface or through understanding of the device operation and configuration in the discharge mode.

[0066] In one example, the processor is configured to configure the aerosol generating device to be in the discharge mode by switching from the aerosol generating mode to the discharge mode based on a discharge input (which may be a discharge instruction).

[0067] This is very advantageous during the disassembly and recycling process, as the disassembler can configure the aerosol-generating device to be in a specific mode for discharging the battery cells.

[0068] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling an aerosol generating device is provided, which aerosol generating device includes: one or more electrical components, the one or more electrical components including an aerosol generator component, wherein the aerosol generating device can be selectively configured to be in: an aerosol generating mode, in which an aerosol for inhalation by a user is generated by supplying power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component; and a discharge mode based on a discharge input, thereby causing the battery cell to discharge by supplying power from the battery cell of the aerosol generating device to one or more electrical components of the one or more electrical components. The method includes: configuring the aerosol generating device to be in the discharge mode based on the discharge input, thereby causing the battery cell to discharge by supplying power from the battery cell of the aerosol generating device to one or more electrical components of the one or more electrical components.

[0069] The second aspect of the present invention may combine any or all of the features of the first aspect of the present invention as needed or appropriate.

[0070] In one example, in the aerosol generation mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output; and in the discharge mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generation mode and / or to provide no aerosol output, the method comprising: configuring the aerosol generating device to be in the discharge mode to provide an aerosol output lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generation mode and / or to provide no aerosol output.

[0071] In one example, the method comprises: in the discharge mode, outputting, using an interface, an indication that the aerosol-generating device is configured in the discharge mode.

[0072] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a discharge device for connection to an aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect of the present invention, the discharge device being arranged to provide a discharge input to the aerosol-generating device.

[0073] The discharge input may be or may include the connection of the discharge device to the aerosol-generating device (or the connection of the discharge device to the aerosol-generating device). The discharge input may be a discharge instruction provided from the discharge device to the aerosol-generating device.

[0074] The discharge device may include one or more electrical components. The discharge device may be connectable to the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device being configurable in a discharge mode based on a discharge input, thereby discharging the battery cells of the aerosol-generating device by providing power from the battery cells to the one or more electrical components.

[0075] The third aspect of the present invention may combine any or all of the features of the above aspects of the present invention as needed or appropriate.

[0076] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating device is provided, comprising: a processor configured to: configure the aerosol generating device to be in a discharge mode based on a discharge input; and cause power to be supplied from a battery cell of the aerosol generating device to one or more electrical components of the aerosol generating device to discharge the battery cell.

[0077] The fourth aspect of the present invention may combine any or all of the features of the above aspects of the present invention as needed or appropriate.

[0078] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a discharge device for a battery cell connected to an aerosol generating device, the discharge device comprising: one or more electrical components, the one or more electrical components being connectable to one or more contacts directly electrically connected to the battery cell, thereby discharging the battery cell.

[0079] The fifth aspect of the present invention may combine any or all of the features of the above aspects of the present invention as needed or appropriate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0080] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0081] Figure 1 An aerosol generating device is shown;

[0082] Figure 2 An aerosol generating device and a discharge device are shown;

[0083] Figure 3 The general method principles are shown; and

[0084] Figure 4 An aerosol generating device is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0085] As used herein, the terms "aerosol precursor material," "vapor precursor material," or "vaporizable material" are used synonymously and may refer to materials and / or ingredients that may, for example, include nicotine or tobacco and a vaporizer. The aerosol precursor material is configured to release an aerosol when heated or otherwise mechanically stimulated (e.g., by vibration). Tobacco can take the form of a variety of different materials, such as cut tobacco, granulated tobacco, leaf tobacco, and / or reconstituted tobacco. Nicotine can be in the form of a nicotine salt. Suitable vaporizers include: polyols (e.g., sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol); non-polyols (e.g., monohydric alcohols); acids (e.g., lactic acid); glycerol derivatives; and esters (e.g., triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerol, or vegetable glycerin). In some examples, the aerosol precursor material is essentially a liquid containing or including one or more solid particles (e.g., tobacco). The aerosol-generating device is configured to aerosolize an aerosol precursor material without combustion, so as to deliver the aerosol to a user. In addition, and as is common in the art, the terms "vapor" and "aerosol" and related terms such as "vaporize," "volatize," and "aerosolize" are often used interchangeably.

[0086] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation device" is synonymous with "aerosol generating device," or "device" may include a device configured to heat an aerosol precursor material and deliver the aerosol to a user. The device may be portable. "Portable" may mean that the device is used while being held by a user or a disassembler. The device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol that can be controlled by user input.

[0087] As used herein, the term "aerosol" may include a suspension of vaporizable material (e.g., one or more of solid particles, liquid droplets, and gases). The suspension may be in a gas (including air). Aerosols herein generally refer to / include vapor. Aerosols may contain one or more components of vaporizable material.

[0088] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 , an aerosol-generating device 100 is shown. The aerosol-generating device 100 may be configured to be in a (deliberate, selective) discharge mode. The aerosol-generating device 100 may be configured to be in a discharge mode based on (e.g., in response to) a discharge input. The aerosol-generating device 100 may be configured to be in a discharge mode based on a discharge input, thereby causing the battery cells 102 of the aerosol-generating device 100 to discharge by providing power from the battery cells 102 to one or more electrical components 110, 210.

[0089] As described in more detail below, the one or more electrical components 110, 210 comprise an aerosol generator component 112, 212. The aerosol generation device 100 is selectively configurable in an aerosol generation mode and a discharge mode. In the aerosol generation mode, an aerosol for inhalation by a user is generated by providing electrical power from the battery cell 102 to the aerosol generator component 112, 212. In contrast, in the discharge mode, the battery cell 102 is caused to discharge, and the battery cell 102 is configured to provide electrical power to one or more of the one or more electrical components 110, 210.

[0090] It will be appreciated that this contrasts with conventional devices, which are operable to provide an aerosol generation mode, but which are not further configured in an intentional, selective and / or dedicated discharge mode to discharge the battery cell 102.

[0091] As Figure 1 shown in a first embodiment, the one or more electrical components are provided in the aerosol generation device 100. The one or more electrical components are indicated by reference numeral 110. That is, the one or more electrical components 110 can be an integral part of (e.g. integral with) the aerosol generation device 100.

[0092] However, as Figure 2 shown in a second embodiment, the one or more electrical components are not provided in the aerosol generation device 100. Rather, the one or more electrical components are provided in a discharge device 200. The one or more electrical components are indicated by reference numeral 210. That is, the one or more electrical components 210 can be an integral part of (e.g. integral with) an external device in the form of the discharge device 200. The discharge device 200 can be arranged to provide a discharge input to the aerosol generation device 100.

[0093] It will be appreciated from the description provided herein that the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be combined. In particular, the aerosol-generating device 100 can provide one or more electrical components 110, and the discharge device 200 can provide one or more electrical components 210. Discharging of the battery cells 102 can be performed by providing power from the battery cells 102 to the one or more electrical components 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and / or to the one or more electrical components 210 of the discharge device 200. That is, the aerosol-generating device 100 can be configured to perform discharge through the one or more electrical components 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and / or to the one or more electrical components 210 of the discharge device 200. This can depend on whether the discharge device 200 is connected, whether it is an input, and / or whether it is a specific discharge mode. Discharging through the one or more electrical components 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and discharging to the one or more electrical components 210 of the discharge device 200 can occur simultaneously or at different times.

[0094] In other words, the discharge mode is a mode of the aerosol-generating device in which the battery cells are intentionally or deliberately discharged. That is, the discharge mode functions to discharge the battery cells. During the discharge mode, power is supplied from the battery cells 102 to one or more electrical components 110, 210 to facilitate the discharge of the battery cells 102. The discharge mode may be initiated or incorporated into the disassembly or recycling process of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0095] The current drawn from the battery cells 102 during the discharge mode may be lower than the current drawn from the battery cells 102 during the aerosol generation mode. In this way, the battery cells 102 may be discharged in a safe and controlled manner, and the risk of overheating may be mitigated.

[0096] In an example, a discharge input is a specific input that causes or initiates the discharge of the battery cell 102. In response to the discharge input, the aerosol-generating device 100 can be configured in a discharge mode. Confirmation may be required in order to configure the aerosol-generating device 100 in the discharge mode. Once the aerosol-generating device 100 is configured in the discharge mode, no further input or interaction is required to perform the discharge of the battery cell 102. The discharge of the battery cell 102 can continue until a threshold charge level of the battery cell 102 is reached, at which point the discharge can be terminated. This is in contrast to the aerosol generation mode, in which power is only provided when a user interacts with the aerosol-generating device (e.g., by taking a puff on the aerosol-generating device 100, thereby activating a puff sensor, etc.) or when a consumable product including an aerosol substrate is inserted and retained in the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0097] As a general overview, the aerosol-generating device 100 can be configured to be in a discharge mode to intentionally discharge the battery cells 102 so that a disassembler can safely access the battery cells 102 to recover the battery cells 102 without exposing the disassembler to charged battery cells 102 or requiring the disassembler to handle charged battery cells 102. This differs from the typical aerosol-generating mode of the aerosol-generating device 100 in that the discharge mode enables lower charge levels of the battery cells 102 to be achieved, where the discharge of the battery cells 102 rather than the generation of aerosol is the primary consideration. That is, the primary purpose of the discharge mode is to discharge the battery cells 102. After the battery cells 102 are discharged, the battery cells 102 can be safely removed from the aerosol-generating device 100 for disposal or recovery. The aerosol-generating device 100 can be provided with new battery cells, i.e., to facilitate replacement of battery cells.

[0098] In an example, providing power from the battery cell 102 to the one or more electrical components 110 , 210 does not cause the generation of aerosols.

[0099] That is, power from the battery cell 102 may be provided to one or more electrical components 110, 210 such that the power provided to the one or more electrical components 110, 210 does not result in the generation of aerosols. This may involve providing power to components other than components arranged to heat consumables in order to generate aerosols, or providing power to components arranged to heat consumables at a level (e.g., power level) that is insufficient to generate aerosols. In an example, the power provided to such components may be at a sufficiently low level that a temperature suitable for generating aerosols cannot be achieved. Discharging the battery cell 102 without generating aerosols is very advantageous for increasing the lifespan of the aerosol-generating components of the aerosol-generating device 100 and for improving the convenience and practicality of the recycling process.

[0100] In other examples, aerosol may be generated during the discharge of the battery cell in the discharge mode, but may be at a lower level than that generated during the aerosol generating mode of the aerosol-generating device. Furthermore, aerosol may be generated during the discharge of the battery cell in the discharge mode without activating the activation system of the aerosol-generating device, for example, via a puff sensor (or other sensor indicating user usage).

[0101] As described elsewhere in the specification, if any aerosol is generated during discharge of the battery cell in discharge mode, it can be indicated to the user or to the disassembler that the aerosol was not generated during aerosol generation mode and is not intended for inhalation. Aerosol generated during discharge mode may be referred to as "residual aerosol" and may be caused by the operation of the heater component that heats the consumable during discharge.

[0102] In other words, in relation to the above, in the aerosol generation mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output; whereas in the discharge mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output that is lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generation mode and / or to provide no aerosol output. The lower aerosol output may mean a relatively lower aerosol generation rate (e.g., amount per unit time) compared to the aerosol generation mode.

[0103] In some examples, sensors that sense the presence of consumables or the level of consumables may be disabled during discharge mode, or information provided by such sensors may not be used. That is, discharge mode can operate in the absence of consumables or when the consumable level is low or zero. This is in contrast to aerosol generation mode, which can only be initiated if a consumable is present or detected, or if the consumable level is sufficient to generate an aerosol.

[0104] In a related example, a sensor that senses the presence of a consumable can be enabled to facilitate the initiation or execution of the discharge mode. Based on the received discharge input, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the aerosol-generating device 100 is provided with a consumable, and only provide power from the battery cell 102 to the one or more electrical components 110, 210 when it is determined that the aerosol-generating device 100 is not provided with a consumable.

[0105] In more detail, in the discharge mode, the aerosol generating device 100 is configured to: sense the presence or absence of a consumable at the aerosol generating device; and based on sensing the absence of the consumable, provide power from the battery cell 102 to the aerosol generator component 112 , 212 .

[0106] As described above, the current drawn from the battery cells 102 during the discharge mode can be lower than the current drawn from the battery cells 102 during the aerosol generation mode. The current drawn from the battery cells 102 during the aerosol generation mode can be an aerosol generation current (i.e., a current sufficient to generate an aerosol by heating the consumable), while the current drawn from the battery cells 102 during the discharge mode can be a discharge current that is lower than the aerosol generation current (i.e., a current insufficient to generate an aerosol because the aerosol generator components cannot reach a sufficient temperature). This can facilitate safe and controlled discharge of the battery cells 102.

[0107] In related examples further described herein, the current drawn from the battery cells 102 during the discharge mode may be a discharge current sufficient to generate an aerosol when provided to the heater component, but an interface (e.g., interface 130) may indicate that the aerosol-generating device 100 is operating in the discharge mode (and, therefore, generating aerosol in the discharge mode). A user may then understand that the generated aerosol is not intended for inhalation. For example, the generated aerosol may be a relatively low level of aerosol generation due to the use of at least partially or substantially depleted consumables, or due to the relatively low temperature or current employed during the aerosol generation mode.

[0108] In an example, in the aerosol generation mode, the aerosol generating device 100 provides an aerosol output (e.g., a non-zero aerosol output), while in the discharge mode, the aerosol generating device 100 provides an aerosol output that is lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generation mode and / or does not provide an aerosol output.

[0109] This is very advantageous because the aerosol-generating device 100 can thereby be configured to be in two different operating modes, including: an aerosol generation mode in which an aerosol is provided for inhalation; and a discharge mode for discharging the battery cells 102, which may involve generating a certain level of aerosol, but the user can understand that the aerosol is not for inhalation, for example due to the indication provided by the interface 130 described herein. The battery cells can thereby be discharged in a safe and controlled manner, and the convenience of the disassembler is improved.

[0110] In other words, in the aerosol generation mode, the aerosol generating device 100 provides an aerosol output by aerosolizing / vaporizing a given portion / mass of the consumable, while in the discharge mode, the aerosol generating device 100 does not provide an aerosol output and / or provides an aerosol output that is significantly lower in terms of the portion / mass of the consumable compared to in the aerosol generation mode.

[0111] The battery cell 102 can thereby be discharged in a safe and controlled manner, and the convenience of the disassembler is improved.In addition, the aerosol generation mode and the discharge mode are therefore different modes.

[0112] In an example, the provision of power from the battery cells 102 to the one or more electrical components 110 , 210 is controlled based on one or more properties of the battery cells 102 and / or the one or more electrical components 110 , 210 .

[0113] The provision of power may be controlled by a processor of the aerosol-generating device 100, as discussed in more detail below. Additionally or alternatively, the provision of power may be controlled by the discharge device 200. Additionally or alternatively, the provision of power may be controlled by a remote device, such as a smartphone.

[0114] The one or more attributes may be or include a charge level (e.g., the charge level of a battery cell), or the charge level of an energy storage device to which the battery cell is connected. Voltage and current levels may also be useful attributes. Additionally, the one or more attributes may include temperature, such as the temperature of the battery cell and / or the temperature of one or more electrical components. By controlling the provision of power based on temperature, overheating may be prevented. Additionally, by controlling the provision of power based on charge level, the battery cell may be discharged at a safe or appropriate rate, or to a charge level that is safe for subsequent handling of the battery cell by a disassembler.

[0115] In an example, the supply of power from the battery cell 102 to the one or more electrical components 110 , 210 is controlled to reduce the charge level of the battery cell 102 below a threshold charge level.

[0116] The threshold charge level may be a charge level at which the battery cell 102 is determined to present a low risk to a disassembler or operator handling the battery cell 102. The threshold charge level may be a charge level that is 30% of the maximum charge level (i.e., maximum charge capacity) of the battery cell. The threshold charge level may be a threshold charge level in discharge mode. The threshold charge level may not be achieved in aerosol generation mode or other normal operating modes of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0117] In some examples, reaching a threshold charge level may terminate the discharge mode. In other examples, the battery protection mode may automatically disconnect the battery cells when the voltage reaches a threshold level (e.g., 2.5 V), or the processor of the aerosol-generating device 100 (e.g., the processor 120 described above) may be programmed to terminate operation of the aerosol-generating device 100 when the voltage of the battery cells 102 drops below a threshold level (e.g., 3 V). In this way, the discharge mode can be terminated without monitoring the battery charge level during the discharge mode, which can simplify the discharge mode.

[0118] In an example, in the aerosol generating mode, power supplied from the battery cell 102 to the one or more electrical components 110 , 210 is controlled to reduce the battery charge level below a minimum charge level limit of the aerosol generating device 100 .

[0119] That is, in aerosol generation mode, a minimum charge level limit can be set or controlled in the aerosol generating device 100. This minimum charge level limit is the minimum charge level of the battery cell 102 that can be achieved in aerosol generation mode. Further depletion of the battery cell beyond this limit can be prevented to ensure the reliability of the battery cell. However, in discharge mode, the battery cell 102 can be discharged to a charge level lower than the minimum charge level of the battery cell 102 that can be achieved in aerosol generation mode. This is advantageous in terms of improving the safety of the disassembler. The charge level can be the voltage of the battery cell 102.

[0120] In an example, the aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a processor 120 configured to configure the aerosol-generating device to be in a discharge mode based on a discharge input.

[0121] The processor 120 may process the discharge input to configure the aerosol-generating device 100 to be in the discharge mode. The processor 120 may configure the aerosol-generating device 100 to be in the discharge mode. The processor 120 may configure the aerosol-generating device 100 to be in the discharge mode by initiating or controlling the supply of power from the battery cell 102 to one or more electrical components 110, 210.

[0122] The discharge input may be a discharge instruction. The discharge instruction may be provided at the aerosol generating device, or may be provided by a remote (or external) device. Alternatively, the discharge input may be provided by connecting to an external device (e.g., forming an electrical connection).

[0123] In an example, the discharge input is provided by connecting the discharge device 200 to the aerosol-generating device 100. More generally, the discharge device 200 may be arranged to provide the discharge input to the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0124] The connection between the discharge device 200 and the aerosol-generating device 100 may be a physical connection or may be a wireless connection (eg, a wireless connection having a wireless power transfer function).

[0125] The one or more electrical components 210 of the discharge device 200 can enable the battery cells 102 to discharge by providing power to the one or more electrical components 210. For example, the one or more electrical components 210 may include a resistive load (e.g., a resistor or resistor arrangement) and / or an aerosol generator component (e.g., an oven or heater, or an atomizer, or an induction heater component). The discharge device 200 can be configured to be provided with power to be dissipated as heat, or to be provided with power to be stored at the discharge device 200 (e.g., in its battery cells). The function of the discharge device 200 is to discharge the battery cells 102 of the aerosol-generating device 100, for example, by receiving power from the battery cells 102 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and / or drawing power from the battery cells 102 of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0126] Connecting the discharge device 200 to the aerosol-generating device 100 may provide a discharge input to configure the aerosol-generating device 100 in the discharge mode. In an example, it may be recorded at the aerosol-generating device 100 that the discharge device 200 has been connected and that the aerosol-generating device is configured in the discharge mode. Alternatively, it may not be recorded at the aerosol-generating device 100 that the discharge device 200 has been connected and that the aerosol-generating device 100 is configured in the discharge mode, but rather the discharge mode may simply be discharging the aerosol-generating device 100 by providing power to one or more electrical components 210 of the discharge device 200 via a connection between the one or more electrical components.

[0127] Additionally or alternatively, the discharge input from the discharge device 200 may be a discharge instruction. The discharge instruction may be provided to the processor 120 of the aerosol generating device 100. The discharge instruction may be provided to configure the aerosol generating device 100 in a discharge mode to initiate discharge via the discharge device 200.

[0128] As will be understood from the description herein, the aerosol-generating device 100 may be connectable to the discharge device 200 , and in a discharge mode, the aerosol-generating device 100 is configured to provide power from the battery cells 102 to the discharge device 200 .

[0129] In an example, the discharge device 200 may be provided as a housing part of the aerosol-generating device 100. The discharge device 200 may be provided to replace a removable housing part of the aerosol-generating device 100. When connected to the aerosol-generating device 100, the discharge device 200 may thus form part of the housing (e.g., a housing or cover) of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0130] The discharge device 200 may be integrally formed with the housing portion. That is, the housing portion may be or may provide the discharge device 200. In this manner, the housing portion may be electrically connected to the aerosol-generating device 100 to facilitate the discharge of the battery cells 102. In such an example, the existing housing portion of the aerosol-generating device 100 may be removed and replaced with the housing portion including the discharge device 200. The housing portion may be electrically connected to the aerosol-generating device 100, thereby discharging the battery cells 102. Advantageously, this configuration enables the battery cells 102 to be discharged while ensuring that components of the aerosol-generating device (particularly the battery cells 102) remain protected (i.e., from being accessible to a user) because the discharge device provides the housing portion to complete the housing (e.g., outer shell or cover) of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0131] In an example, the aerosol-generating device 100 is arranged to provide a direct electrical connection of the discharge device 200 to the battery cell 102 .

[0132] A direct electrical connection may mean that the electrical connection is made without intermediary components, such as one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs). That is, the electrical connection point may not be, for example, a charging point or connector of the aerosol-generating device 100 that provides charging power to the battery cell 102 via the PCB of the aerosol-generating device 100. Instead, the electrical connection is made directly to the battery cell 102, thereby bypassing any PCB of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0133] A direct electrical connection may be provided by a connection element that is in direct contact or connection with the battery cell 102. The connection may be achieved via one or more contacts 108 that are electrically connected to the battery cell 102. During normal use and when the discharge device 200 is not connected, the contacts 108 may be covered. This may advantageously reduce the risk of a short circuit. The contacts 108 may be exposed so as to become accessible for connection using the discharge device 200. The contacts 108 may be exposed by removing one or more covers or cover elements. The one or more covers or cover elements may be removable, for example, may be removably mounted to prevent access to the contacts 108. Removing one or more covers or cover elements may facilitate connection of the discharge device 200 to the battery cell 102.

[0134] A direct electrical connection may mean that the connection is via a discharge circuit that is configured to enable the battery cell 102 to discharge. The discharge circuit may include the battery cell 102, the connection element, and the contacts 108. Other components may be provided, such as one or more PCBs or protective elements (e.g., fuses). However, these components do not form part of the charging circuit. The discharge circuit may passively or actively manage the discharge of the battery cell 102. The discharge circuit may bypass or avoid the use of one or more components of the aerosol-generating device 100 (e.g., one or more components of the charging circuit).

[0135] It will be appreciated that one or more of the contacts 108 may be different from the charging contacts of the aerosol-generating device 100. Examples of conventional aerosol-generating devices include contacts with which the aerosol-generating device can be electrically connected to charge its battery cells. However, the contacts 108 are not charging contacts, but rather contacts specifically used to discharge the battery cells.

[0136] One or more covers or cover elements may be destructible. The term "destructible" is used to refer to the property of one or more covers or cover elements. The term "destructible" is used to refer to one or more covers or cover elements that are configured (e.g., intentionally configured) to be at least partially destructible, such that one or more of their mechanical properties or mechanical integrity (e.g., hardness or mechanical strength) are lost or reduced, for example, by appropriate treatment. Typically, treatment may include applying heat or a liquid, such as a water-based solution or solvent, to the one or more covers or cover elements. This configuration (e.g., intentional configuration) can be achieved by selecting one or more materials from which to form the one or more destructible covers or cover elements. However, the effects of heat or liquid do not necessarily cause complete destruction of the one or more covers or cover elements. Instead, the one or more covers or cover elements may be formed from a destructible material such that the application of heat or solvent reduces the material's mechanical properties or integrity. For example, the one or more covers or cover elements may become soft or weakened, making them easier or more susceptible to being cut, torn, sheared, or broken. That is, the mechanical properties or integrity may be degraded such that one or more covers or closure elements are more easily cut, torn, sheared, or broken (i.e., contacts 108 are generally more accessible) than at a time prior to treatment (e.g., application of heat or solvent).

[0137] Other components of the aerosol-generating device 100 may be indestructible components. That is, unlike the destructible cover or capping element, which is intentionally configured to be destroyed, the other components are not intentionally configured to be destroyed. Under the same conditions to which the destructible cover or capping element is exposed, the other components may be destroyed at a significantly lower rate, or not be destroyed at all. For example, one or more other components of the aerosol-generating device 100 may not dissolve or be destroyed in a solvent, while the destructible cover or capping element would dissolve or be destroyed in the same solvent.

[0138] In highly advantageous embodiments, one or more of the covers or capping elements are dissolvable. The one or more covers or capping elements may be dissolvable in a water-based solution or solvent, or may be made dissolvable in a water-based solution or solvent by application of water or a solvent to the one or more covers or capping elements. As discussed with respect to the term "destructible", the one or more covers or capping elements may be fully or partially dissolvable. Partial dissolution may mean that a component of the one or more covers or capping elements is dissolved, thereby allowing easier removal or manipulation of the portion, or allowing removal (e.g., peeling) of the remainder of the one or more covers or capping elements. Dissolving the one or more covers or capping elements may comprise immersing the aerosol generating device 100, or a portion thereof, in water or a solvent.

[0139] In one example, one or more covers or cover elements can be formed from fibers (e.g., natural fibers or glass fibers) and a binder that bonds the fibers together to form one or more covers or cover elements with strong mechanical resistance. The binder can be soluble, thereby reducing the mechanical properties of the material. The fibers can then be pierced, peeled off, or otherwise removed, thereby facilitating access to the contacts 108.

[0140] The destruction of the one or more caps or closure elements may occur at room temperature, for example in a solvent at room temperature. Alternatively, the destruction of the one or more caps or closure elements may occur by applying heat or a solvent at a temperature between 50°C and 90°C, and preferably between 70°C and 90°C.

[0141] In an example, the one or more electrical components 110 , 210 include an aerosol generator component 112 , 212 and / or a resistive load 114 , 214 .

[0142] The aerosol generator component 112, 212 may be an oven, heater, atomizer, or induction heater component. The aerosol generator component 112, 212 may be a heat dissipating component or element. The resistive load 114, 214 may be a resistor or any other load that can dissipate energy by supplying power to the resistive load 114, 214. The aerosol generator component 112, 212 and / or the resistive load 114, 214 may be provided with a protective element (such as an insulating cover) to protect disassemblers from contact with heated components.

[0143] The oven may be provided in the aerosol-generating device 100. The heater may be provided in the aerosol-generating device 100 or may be incorporated into a consumable (e.g., incorporated into a pod or cartridge to be received in the aerosol-generating device 100). Providing a heater in the aerosol-generating device 100 facilitates enabling a discharge mode, or discharging of the battery cells 102, even when the aerosol-generating device 100 is not provided with a consumable.

[0144] Providing power to the aerosol generator component 112, 212 causes the battery cell 102 to discharge. However, this differs from the standard heating cycle of the aerosol-generating device 100 in aerosol generation mode. In aerosol generation mode, power may be provided to the aerosol generator component to generate an aerosol for consumption by the user. In aerosol generation mode, power may be provided cyclically or according to a curve to optimize aerosol generation. Aerosol generation mode may provide heating to deliver a predefined aerosol dose, or provide heating for a fixed duration during a puff taken by the user to deliver a constant dose. However, in discharge mode, power may be provided continuously to the aerosol generator component 112, 212, thereby generating continuous heating using the aerosol generator component 112, 212. In discharge mode, no consumables are required to be present and no aerosol is required to be generated in order to discharge the battery cell 102. Power may be provided to the aerosol generator component 112, 212 and / or the resistive load 114, 214 until a threshold charge level is reached.

[0145] As described in detail elsewhere herein, it will be appreciated that discharge mode may also be performed with a consumable present and providing a non-zero level of aerosol output, but may indicate to the user that the aerosol generating device is operating in discharge mode. This allows the user to determine that the aerosol is not intended for inhalation.

[0146] In an example, one or more electrical components 110, 210 include an aerosol generator component 112, 212, and power is supplied from the battery cell 102 to the aerosol generator component 112, 212 such that the aerosol generator component operates at a temperature below an aerosol generation temperature, for example, below 180°C.

[0147] This is possible in discharge mode because the function of discharge mode is not to generate aerosols. Rather, the purpose of discharge mode is to discharge the battery cells 102 in a safe and controlled manner. The aerosol generation temperature can be the boiling point of one or more chemicals included in the consumable. The boiling point of liquid-based consumables can be 188°C to 190°C, and therefore maintaining a temperature of 180°C ensures that no aerosols are generated during discharge mode.

[0148] The processor 120 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and / or the discharge device 200 may control the provision of electrical power.

[0149] In another example, the supply of power can be controlled so that the aerosol generator component is intermittently operated at an aerosol generating temperature (e.g., at a temperature otherwise employed in an aerosol generating mode). A heating profile can be employed to cause heating to an aerosol generating temperature and then to a lower temperature, and this process can be repeated one or more times. Such a profile reduces the risk of overheating.

[0150] In an example, the one or more electrical components include an aerosol generator component, and power supplied from the battery cells to the aerosol generator component is controlled such that the aerosol generator component operates at a temperature in the range of 30°C to 160°C, such as 60°C.

[0151] The processor 120 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and / or the discharge device 200 may control the provision of electrical power.

[0152] Operating the aerosol generator components within this temperature range ensures that the battery cells 102 are discharged in a safe and controlled manner while minimizing the risk of overheating components of the aerosol-generating device 100 and / or the discharge device 200 .

[0153] In an example, the aerosol-generating device 100 further comprises an interface 130 for displaying information related to the discharge mode.

[0154] The interface 130 can indicate that the aerosol generating device 100 is in discharge mode, or is configured to be in a discharge state, or is performing a discharge function or cycle. That is, the interface 130 can provide information to inform the disassembler that the battery cell 102 is discharging. The interface 130 is configured to output an indication that the aerosol generating device 100 is configured to be in discharge mode. In addition, the interface 130 can provide information to inform the disassembler of the charge level of the battery cell 102. When the charge level of the battery cell 102 reaches a threshold charge level or has dropped below a threshold charge level, the interface 130 can provide an indication to the disassembler. In this way, the disassembler can determine that it is safe to handle or remove the battery cell 102 from the aerosol generating device 100.

[0155] In an example, the interface 130 is configured to provide an indication of battery cell discharge and / or an indication of the charge level of the battery cell. In this way, the disassembler can determine that the battery cell 102 has discharged or is discharging based on the information provided by the interface 130.

[0156] The indication of discharge mode (or similarly, an indication that the device is configured to be in a discharge state, or is performing a discharge function or cycle) can allow the user to understand that when the device 100 is in discharge mode, any aerosol being generated is not for inhalation. This is different from the aerosol generation mode, or from the situation during an aerosol inhalation session, during which the user can understand that the aerosol being generated is for inhalation.

[0157] The interface 130 may include an element configured to change or alter its characteristics based on the charge level of the battery cell 102. For example, the element may include a chemical that changes color based on the charge level of the battery cell 102.

[0158] In addition, the interface 130 can display information related to the temperature of one or more components 110, 210 (e.g., the temperature of the aerosol generator component 112, 212 or the resistive load 114, 214). In this way, the disassembler can determine that the battery cell 102 is substantially discharged due to the low heating temperature of the aerosol generator component 112, 212 or the resistive load 114, 214 (e.g., when the power provided by the battery cell 102 is insufficient to cause high-temperature heating).

[0159] The interface 130 may comprise a display, a screen etc. The interface 130 may comprise an arrangement of one or more LEDs that are illuminated (eg in a particular colour) to indicate that the aerosol-generating device 100 is configured in the discharge mode.

[0160] In an example, the aerosol generation device 100 is configured to: generate or receive a discharge input based on an input at the aerosol generation device 100; and / or receive a discharge input from a remote device.

[0161] The disassembler can provide an input at the aerosol generation device 100 as a discharge input to cause the aerosol generation device 100 to enter the discharge mode. The input can be a button press or a series of button presses. Alternatively or additionally, the disassembler can command the discharge mode of the aerosol generation device 100 from a remote device, such as a smartphone.

[0162] In an example, the discharge mode is different from the aerosol generation mode.

[0163] The discharge mode and the aerosol generation mode can be separate modes that are separately selectable. Each mode has a different purpose or desired functionality - in the discharge mode, the purpose is to discharge the battery cell 102; while in the aerosol generation mode, the purpose is to generate aerosol or be in a state in which aerosol can be generated. When the aerosol generation device 100 is in the discharge mode, there can be no need for interaction with the disassembler. Enabling or configuring the discharge mode can require confirmation by the disassembler. The discharge mode and the aerosol generation mode can have different characteristics, for example different minimum power level parameters, different power parameters and / or different temperature parameters or profiles.

[0164] In an example, the processor 120 is configured to configure the aerosol generation device 100 to be in the discharge mode by switching from the aerosol generation mode to the discharge mode based on a discharge input, which can be a discharge instruction.

[0165] This is highly advantageous in the disassembly and recycling process, as the disassembler can configure the aerosol generation device 100 to be in a specific mode for discharging the battery cell.

[0166] Referring to Figure 3 , a method of controlling an aerosol generation device is shown. The aerosol generation device comprises one or more electrical components, including an aerosol generator component, wherein the aerosol generation device is selectively configurable to be in: an aerosol generation mode in which aerosol for inhalation by a user is generated by providing electrical power from a battery cell to the aerosol generator component; and a discharge mode based on a discharge input, whereby the battery cell of the aerosol generation device is caused to discharge, wherein the battery cell is configured to provide electrical power to one or more of the one or more electrical components. Step S310 comprises configuring the aerosol generation device to be in the discharge mode based on the discharge input, whereby the battery cell of the aerosol generation device is caused to discharge by providing electrical power from the battery cell to one or more of the one or more electrical components.

[0167] The method may include the above-mentioned Figure 1 and Figure 2 Any or all of the features described.

[0168] In the aerosol generation mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output (e.g., suitable for inhalation by a user); and in the discharge mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output that is lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generation mode and / or to provide no aerosol output. Optional step S320 includes configuring the aerosol generating device in the discharge mode to provide an aerosol output that is lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generation mode and / or to provide no aerosol output.

[0169] Optional step S330 comprises, in the discharge mode, outputting, using the interface, an indication that the aerosol generating device is configured to be in the discharge mode.

[0170] A further optional step includes disconnecting the battery cell from the aerosol-generating device after discharge. A further optional step includes removing the battery cell from the aerosol-generating device after discharge. A further optional step includes providing the aerosol-generating device with a new battery cell after removing the battery cell from the aerosol-generating device. In other words, the optional step includes replacing the discharged battery cell with a new battery cell. A further optional step includes recycling the removed battery cell.

[0171] See also Figure 4 , a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 100 is shown.

[0172] The aerosol-generating device 100 may be according to the first embodiment and / or the second embodiment described above.

[0173] The aerosol-generating device 100 is adapted to receive therein a consumable product 1002. For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 may comprise a chamber 1004 in which the consumable product 1002 is received.

[0174] The present invention is not limited to the specific aerosol-generating device 100 or consumable 1002 described herein. That is, the description of the aerosol-generating device 100 and consumable 1002 is provided for illustrative purposes only. The skilled person will understand that alternative configurations of aerosol-generating devices and consumables will be compatible with the present invention.

[0175] Consumable product 1002 includes an aerosol matrix. The term "aerosol matrix" is a label used to refer to a medium that generates an aerosol or vapor when heated. Aerosol matrix can be interpreted as an aerosol precursor. In one example, aerosol matrix is ​​synonymous with smokeable material, aerosol-generating matrix, and aerosol-generating medium. Aerosol matrix includes a material that provides a volatile component (typically in the form of a vapor or aerosol) when heated. The aerosol matrix can be a non-tobacco material or a tobacco-containing material. The aerosol matrix can, for example, include one or more of the following: tobacco itself, a tobacco derivative, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, a tobacco extract, homogenized tobacco, or a tobacco substitute. The aerosol matrix can also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. The aerosol matrix can include one or more humectants, such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0176] The aerosol-generating device 100 may comprise one or more heaters 1006 configured to provide heat to the consumable 1002 in use.

[0177] In one example, consumable 1002 contains a liquid, and one or more heaters comprise heating elements (e.g., coils, ceramic heaters, flat resistive heaters, mesh heaters, MEMS heaters, etc.) configured to aerosolize the liquid for inhalation. A liquid delivery element or mechanism (e.g., a porous material, a capillary system, and / or a valve) can deliver the liquid to the heating element during use. In some examples, the aerosolized liquid can pass through a solid substrate within aerosol-generating device 100. In other examples, consumable 1002 can include a solid aerosol substrate.

[0178] In one example, the aerosol-generating device 100 includes an atomizing engine (such as a vibrating mesh) to generate an aerosol from a liquid with or without heating.

[0179] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a mouthpiece 1012 through which the user draws suction on the aerosol generating device 100 to inhale the generated aerosol. The mouthpiece 1012 includes a vent or passage 1014 connected to an area near the consumable 1002 for allowing any aerosol generated from the consumable 1002 to pass during use. For example, the passage 1014 may extend between an opening in the mouthpiece 1012 and a chamber 1004 in which the consumable 1002 may be at least partially received. The mouthpiece 1012 is arranged so that it can be received in the user's mouth during use. In other examples, the mouthpiece 1012 is not required, and a portion of the consumable 1002 may protrude from the aerosol generating device 100. In this example, the protruding portion of the consumable 1002 may serve as a mouthpiece.

[0180] The aerosol generation device 100 can include a control unit 1008 (or control circuitry) for electronically managing the device. The control unit 1008 can include a PCB or the like (not shown). The control unit 1008 is configured to control the one or more heaters 1006.

[0181] The aerosol generation device 100 can include an activation input sensor 1018. The activation input sensor 1018 can be a button, a touchpad, or the like, for sensing an input of a user, such as a tap or a swipe. In other examples, the activation input sensor 1018 includes a consumable sensor configured to detect whether a consumable 1002 has been inserted into the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the input sensor 1018 can include an authenticity detector configured to detect whether a genuine consumable 1002 has been inserted into the aerosol generation device 100. Additionally or alternatively, the user input can also include an inhalation action of the user.

[0182] The aerosol generation device 100 can include a puff sensor 1020 (also referred to as an inhalation sensor). The puff sensor 1020 is configured to detect an inhalation action (or a puff) of a user on the aerosol generation device 100. In one example, the puff sensor 1020 includes a microphone or a flow sensor configured to detect airflow within the chamber 1004 and / or airflow within an airflow channel extending from the chamber 1004 through the mouthpiece 1012 to an inhalation outlet of the mouthpiece 1012, the airflow being associated with an inhalation action of the user. In other examples, the puff sensor 1020 is configured to detect a pressure change indicative of a start of an inhalation action of the user on the aerosol generation device 100. In this case, the puff sensor 1020 can be positioned at any location on the aerosol device 100 at which there will be a pressure change due to an inhalation action of the user. In one example, the puff sensor 1020 is positioned in the channel 1014 between the chamber 1004 and the mouthpiece 1012 of the aerosol generation device 100. The puff sensor 1020 can also detect an end of an inhalation action of the user. For example, the puff sensor 1020 can be configured to detect another pressure change due to an end of an inhalation action of the user.

[0183] The aerosol generation device 100 can comprise one or more temperature sensors 1022 configured to measure, directly or indirectly, the temperature of the consumable 1002 in the aerosol generation device 100. The one or more temperature sensors 1022 can comprise a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple or a thermistor, configured to be located within or adjacent to the consumable when the consumable 1002 is received in the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the one or more temperature sensors 1022 can be positioned within the chamber 1004 of the aerosol generation device 100. In other examples, the temperature of the consumable 1002 can be measured indirectly by using a thermal imaging sensor. In further other examples, the heater 1006 itself acts as a temperature sensor if it has PTC (positive temperature coefficient) or NTC (negative temperature coefficient) properties.

[0184] The aerosol generation device 100 can comprise a power supply 1050, such as a battery cell. The power supply 1050 can be the battery cell 102 described above. The power supply 1050 can comprise or be a battery module. The power supply can provide electrical energy to the aerosol generation device 100, which provides a voltage in the range of 3 V to 18 V, preferably in the range of 3 V to 4.2 V. In a preferred embodiment, the voltage source, which can be the battery cell 102, is a lithium-ion secondary battery delivering a value of 3.6 V to 3.7 V. Such a voltage source is particularly advantageous for modern aerosol generation devices in view of the chargeability, high energy density, and large capacity. The power supply 1050 can provide power for the operation of the aerosol generation device 100, e.g. the power necessary for generating an aerosol. In an example, the power supply 1050 can provide power to the one or more heaters 1006.

[0185] The aerosol generation device 100 can comprise a controller or processor 1030. The processor 1030 is connected to the control unit 1008. The processor 1030 is configured to receive data from the control unit 1008. In particular, the processor 1030 is configured to receive data from the control unit 1008 related to various sensors / inputs of the aerosol generation device 100, such as the activation input sensor 1018, the puff sensor 1020, and / or the temperature sensor 1022.

[0186] The processor 1030 can be configured to configure the aerosol generation device 100 in a discharge mode based on a discharge input in the form of a discharge instruction. The processor 1030 can be configured to cause the provision of power from the battery cell 102, 1050 to one or more electrical components, such as the one or more heaters 1006, to discharge the battery cell 102, 1050.

[0187] In another example, the discharge input may be provided through electrical contacts of the aerosol-generating device 100 (eg, using a dedicated discharge device as discussed herein).

[0188] The processor 1030 and the control unit 1008 may be integral with each other. In one example, a single component performs the functions of the control unit 1008 and the processor 1030. In other examples, the control unit 1008 and the processor 1030 are different components.

[0189] The aerosol-generating device 100 may include a USB port 1052 (eg, a USB receiving port). The USB port may provide a connection to the controller 1030.

[0190] It will be appreciated that the invention as described and defined above may allow devices and methods to facilitate, comply with, or more easily comply with legal and regulatory requirements, guidelines, and standards. In particular, this may relate to one or more of the following: device (e.g., battery or related device) inspection, indication / status, recycling, reuse, repair, replacement, and maintenance, whether by an end user or a service provider.

[0191] With reference generally to the description herein, further details are hereby provided with respect to the terms used above and features described in this disclosure, or with respect to additional terms relevant to this disclosure:

[0192] - "battery" may mean any device that delivers electrical energy generated by direct conversion of chemical energy, has internal or external storage means, and is composed of one or more non-rechargeable or rechargeable battery cells or modules thereof, and includes batteries that have been prepared for reuse, prepared for recycling, reused or remanufactured;

[0193] - "Battery module" may mean one or more battery module components (e.g., any group of one or more battery cells and / or one or more other components as described above) connected together or enclosed within a housing, casing, surround, envelope, wrapping, etc. to protect the battery cells from internal impact and intended for use alone or in combination with other modules. In some instances, in the context of this specification, a "battery module" may be otherwise referred to as a "battery pack";

[0194] - "battery cell" may mean the basic functional unit in a battery, which is composed of electrodes, electrolyte, container, terminals, and (if applicable) separator, and contains active materials whose reaction produces electrical energy;

[0195] - "Active material" means a material that undergoes a chemical reaction to generate electrical energy when the battery cell is discharged or stores electrical energy when the battery is charged.

[0196] While preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims and described herein.

[0197] Examples of or relating to the present invention may be further or alternatively defined or described as follows:

[0198] 1. An aerosol-generating device configurable in a discharge mode based on a discharge input, thereby causing a battery cell of the aerosol-generating device to discharge by providing power from the battery cell to one or more electrical components.

[0199] 2. The aerosol-generating device of embodiment 1, wherein supplying power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components does not cause generation of aerosol.

[0200] 3. An aerosol-generating device according to example 1 or example 2, wherein the supply of power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled based on one or more properties of the battery cell and / or the one or more electrical components.

[0201] 4. An aerosol-generating device according to example 3, wherein the supply of power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled to reduce the charge level of the battery cell to below a threshold charge level.

[0202] 5. An aerosol generating device according to example 3 or example 4, wherein the power supplied from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled to reduce the battery charge level to below a minimum charge level limit of the aerosol generating device in the aerosol generating mode.

[0203] 6. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding embodiment, comprising:

[0204] A processor configured to:

[0205] The aerosol-generating device is configured to be in the discharge mode based on the discharge input.

[0206] 7. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding example, wherein the discharge input is provided by connecting a discharge device to the aerosol generating device.

[0207] 8. An aerosol-generating device according to example 7, wherein the aerosol-generating device is arranged to provide a direct electrical connection between the discharge device and the battery cell.

[0208] 9. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding example, wherein the one or more electrical components comprise: an aerosol generator component and / or a resistive load.

[0209] 10. An aerosol generating device according to Example 9, wherein the one or more electrical components include the aerosol generator component, and wherein the supply of power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component is controlled so that the aerosol generator component operates at a temperature below the aerosol generation temperature, for example, below 180°C.

[0210] 11. An aerosol generating device according to Example 10, wherein the one or more electrical components include the aerosol generator component, and wherein the supply of power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component is controlled so that the aerosol generator component operates at a temperature in the range of 30°C to 160°C, for example, at 60°C.

[0211] 12. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding example, further comprising an interface for displaying information related to the discharge mode.

[0212] 13. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to:

[0213] generating or receiving the discharge input based on an input at the aerosol-generating device; and / or

[0214] The discharge input is received from a remote device.

[0215] 14. A discharge device for connection to an aerosol-generating device according to any preceding example, the discharge device being arranged to provide a discharge input to the aerosol-generating device.

[0216] 15. A method of controlling an aerosol-generating device, the method comprising:

[0217] The aerosol-generating device is configured in a discharge mode based on a discharge input, thereby causing discharge of the battery cells of the aerosol-generating device by providing power from the battery cells to one or more electrical components.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device comprising: one or more electrical components, the one or more electrical components including an aerosol generator component, The aerosol generating device can be selectively configured to: an aerosol generating mode in which an aerosol is generated for inhalation by a user by supplying power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component; and A discharge mode is based on a discharge input, thereby causing a battery cell of the aerosol-generating device to discharge, wherein the battery cell is configured to provide power to one or more of the one or more electrical components.

2. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein: In the aerosol generating mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output; and In the discharge mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output that is lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generating mode and / or to provide no aerosol output.

3. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: In the discharge mode, the aerosol-generating device is configured to: sensing the presence or absence of a consumable product at the aerosol-generating device; as well as Based on sensing the absence of the consumable product, power is provided from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component.

4. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein The supply of power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component is controlled so that the aerosol generator component operates at a temperature below an aerosol generation mode temperature.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: The aerosol-generating device is connectable to a discharge device, and in the discharge mode, the aerosol-generating device is configured to provide power from the battery cell to the discharge device.

6. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, further comprising: An interface for displaying information related to the discharge mode, and in: The interface is configured to output an indication that the aerosol-generating device is configured in the discharge mode.

7. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein: The provision of power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled based on one or more properties of the battery cell and / or the one or more electrical components.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein: The supply of power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled to reduce the charge level of the battery cell below a threshold charge level.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein: The supply of power from the battery cell to the one or more electrical components is controlled to reduce the battery charge level to below a minimum charge level limit of the aerosol generating device in an aerosol generating mode.

10. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, comprising: A processor configured to: The aerosol-generating device is configured to be in the discharge mode based on the discharge input.

11. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein The aerosol-generating device is configured to: generating or receiving the discharge input based on an input at the aerosol-generating device; and / or The discharge input is received from a remote device.

12. A discharge device for connection to an aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, the discharge device being arranged to provide a discharge input to the aerosol-generating device.

13. A method of controlling an aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device comprising: one or more electrical components, the one or more electrical components including an aerosol generator component, The aerosol generating device can be selectively configured to: an aerosol generating mode in which an aerosol is generated for inhalation by a user by supplying power from the battery cell to the aerosol generator component; and a discharge mode based on a discharge input, thereby causing a battery cell of the aerosol-generating device to discharge, wherein the battery cell is configured to provide power to one or more of the one or more electrical components, The method includes: The aerosol-generating device is configured to be in the discharge mode based on the discharge input, thereby causing the battery cells of the aerosol-generating device to discharge by providing power from the battery cells to one or more of the one or more electrical components.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: In the aerosol generating mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output; and In the discharge mode, the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an aerosol output that is lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generating mode and / or to provide no aerosol output, The method includes: The aerosol generating device is configured in the discharge mode to provide an aerosol output that is lower than the aerosol output in the aerosol generating mode and / or to provide no aerosol output.

15. The method according to claim 13 or claim 14, comprising: In the discharge mode, the usage interface outputs an indication that the aerosol-generating device is configured in the discharge mode.

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