Flexible cover for charging or holding cartridge for aerosol-generating device

Abstract

A flexible cover for a charging or holding cartridge of an aerosol-generating device includes an attachment portion for removably attaching the flexible cover to the charging or holding cartridge. The flexible cover also includes a rigid portion including a stack of layers. The stacked layer includes an antenna coil for wirelessly receiving power for wirelessly charging the charging or holding cartridge, a heat dissipation layer, and an electromagnetic shielding layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a flexible cover for a charging or holding box of an aerosol generating device, and a corresponding aerosol generating system including the charging or holding box and the aerosol generating device. Background Technology

[0002] Different types of aerosol generating devices are known. For example, aerosol generating devices of the heated non-combustible type typically include a device battery, control electronics, and an electric heater for heating the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol for user consumption. The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol forming matrix, such as tobacco segments or tobacco sticks, and when the aerosol generating article is received in the aerosol generating device, the electric heater housed within the aerosol generating device is inserted into or positioned around the aerosol forming matrix. Depending on the vaporizer type, another type of aerosol generating device may include a device battery to heat the aerosol generating liquid from the cartridge to provide an aerosol for user consumption.

[0003] Aerosol generating devices are also used as drug nebulizers or aerosol generators for generating inhalable drug components.

[0004] WO 2021 / 074420 discloses a retainer for an elongated aerosol generating apparatus. The retainer defines a docking space for accommodating the aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus can be accommodated in the docking space to protect the apparatus battery and to recharge the apparatus battery using power from a main battery in the retainer. The retainer includes a cover movable between a covered position and an uncovered position, in which the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space.

[0005] Typically known charging or holding cases are equipped with a USB charging adapter, to which a cable can be connected and plugged into a power outlet to recharge the main battery. Summary of the Invention

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

[0007] The attachment portion allows the cover to be removably attached to the charging or holding case. The rigid portion includes stacked layers. These stacked layers include an antenna coil for wirelessly receiving power for wireless charging of the charging or holding case, a heat dissipation layer, and an electromagnetic shielding layer. Therefore, users do not need to use a USB charging adapter to recharge the main battery each time. Furthermore, the cover, as a whole, can be removably attached to and detached from the charging or holding case, allowing users to replace the cover when it wears out. This also enables the cover to be used as a user-replaceable accessory. Therefore, the cover can also be used for decorative and personalization purposes. The heat dissipation layer and electromagnetic shielding layer improve the charging efficiency of wireless charging.

[0008] The flexible cover can be elastically deformable or plastically deformable to unfold into a flat surface. When unfolded into a flat surface, the flexible cover can create a larger charging and device receiving surface compared to when the wireless charging antenna is integrally formed into the charging or holding case.

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

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

[0011] The thickness of the heat dissipation layer can range from 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm. Preferably, the thickness of the heat dissipation layer can be 0.5 mm. The heat dissipation layer may contain or be composed of graphite, and furthermore, the thickness of the heat dissipation layer can range from 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm. The thicker the graphite layer, the better the charging efficiency may be. Preferably, the heat dissipation layer may contain or be composed of graphite, and furthermore, the thickness of the heat dissipation layer is 0.5 mm.

[0012] The electromagnetic shielding layer may comprise nanocrystalline materials. Alternatively, it may comprise FeCo50 alloys. These materials are characterized by narrow and steep hysteresis loops, nearly reversible magnetization processes, low hysteresis losses, low coercivity, and high permeability. Therefore, nanocrystalline materials or FeCo50 alloys (or combinations thereof) can significantly contribute to reducing energy loss during wireless charging. The magnetic field generated during wireless power transmission can be concentrated. This maximizes charging efficiency.

[0013] The thickness of the electromagnetic shielding layer can range from 0.01 mm to 1 mm. The electromagnetic shielding layer can be configured to cover at least a portion of the area of ​​the charging or holding box exposed to the antenna coil when the flexible cover is attached to the charging or holding box. Alternatively, the electromagnetic shielding layer can be configured to cover the entire area of ​​the charging or holding box exposed to the antenna coil when the flexible cover is attached to the charging or holding box. This can improve charging efficiency.

[0014] The stacked layers may also include a reinforcing layer. This prevents the antenna coil from being bent, folded, wrinkled, or twisted, which could cause a portion of the antenna coil to break or tear. Therefore, the reinforcing layer ensures charging efficiency. The reinforcing layer may contain metal. Alternatively, the reinforcing layer may contain a plastic material. The reinforcing layer may contain polycarbonate (PC), aluminum alloy, or stainless steel, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the reinforcing layer may contain PC. This prevents power loss during wireless power transmission because PC attracts almost no additional current during wireless power transmission. The thickness of the reinforcing layer can range from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. The thickness of the reinforcing layer can range from 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

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

[0016] Referring to the vertical direction from the outer surface of the flexible cover toward the charging or holding case, the following stacking order can be observed in the thickness direction of the cover. In this thickness direction, an electromagnetic shielding layer may be disposed above the antenna coil. A heat dissipation layer may be disposed above the electromagnetic shielding layer. If the stacked layers also include a reinforcing layer, the antenna coil may be disposed above the reinforcing layer. Alternatively, the reinforcing layer may be disposed above the heat dissipation layer.

[0017] Viewed from the outside in the thickness direction of the cover, with the cover attached to the charging or holding case, the layers can be stacked in any of the following order:

[0018] - Outer reinforcing layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, inner reinforcing layer;

[0019] - Antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, reinforcement layer;

[0020] - Reinforcing layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer.

[0021] This layer arrangement ensures optimized functionality for each layer in the stack. Therefore, charging efficiency can be optimized.

[0022] The stacked layer may also include electronic components configured to provide information to the user. The electronic components may include a display screen. Alternatively, the electronic components may include at least one LED. When viewed from the inside of the cover in the thickness direction of the cover, the electronic components may be arranged on top of the stacked layer, wherein the inside of the cover is configured to point towards the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case. The information provided may be a wireless charging status. The wireless charging status may be a battery capacity level. Alternatively, the wireless charging status may be a charging mode. Alternatively, the wireless charging status may be a charging progress. The information provided may reflect the positional alignment of the antenna coil relative to the wireless power transmitter.

[0023] The lid may include a flexible wrapping element. The flexible wrapping element may be configured to reversibly wrap around at least a portion of the charging or holding case. Stacked layers may be attached to the flexible wrapping element. Stacked layers may be partially embedded in the flexible wrapping element. Stacked layers may be fully embedded in the flexible wrapping element. The flexible wrapping element may include an inner layer, wherein the inner layer is configured to face the charging or holding case when the lid is attached to the charging or holding case. The flexible wrapping element may include an outer layer, wherein the outer layer is configured to be exposed outside the lid when the lid is attached to the charging or holding case. The flexible wrapping element may comprise fabric, leather, artificial leather, suede, faux suede, velvet material, felt material, fibrous material, multilayer 3D printed layers, embossed layers, fur or faux fur-like material, or polyurethane (PU) material, or combinations thereof. The outer layer may comprise fabric, leather, artificial leather, suede, faux suede, velvet material, felt material, fibrous material, multilayer 3D printed layers, embossed layers, fur or faux fur-like material, or polyurethane (PU) material, or combinations thereof. The outer layer may be translucent, porous, or reflective (or a combination thereof), allowing the underlying display screen or LED (or combination thereof) to emit light through it. The display screen or LED may be at least partially embedded in the outer layer. The inner layer may comprise fabric, leather, artificial leather, suede, faux suede, velvet, felt, fibrous material, multilayer 3D printed layers, embossed layers, fur or faux fur-like material, or polyurethane (PU) material, or a combination thereof. The inner layer may be translucent, porous, or reflective (or a combination thereof), allowing the underlying display screen or LED (or combination thereof) to emit light through it. The display screen or LED may be at least partially embedded in the inner layer. The material of the inner layer may be different from the material of the outer layer. The thickness of the inner layer may be in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm. The thickness of the outer layer may be in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm. The thickness of the inner layer may be different from the thickness of the outer layer. Stacked layers may be sandwiched between the inner and outer layers. Any one of the antenna coil, heat dissipation layer, electromagnetic shielding layer, and reinforcement layer can be combined with any one of the inner and outer layers.

[0024] The attachment portion may include a self-aligning structure. This self-aligning structure can be configured to prevent misalignment between the cover and the charging or holding case. Therefore, proper orientation and alignment between the cover and the charging or holding case can be ensured. This provides proper mechanical alignment of the flexible cover with the cavity or opening to be covered. Furthermore, proper orientation and alignment between the cover and the charging or holding case provides proper electrical interconnection between the flexible flap and the charging or holding case. Therefore, wireless charging functionality of the flexible cover can be ensured.

[0025] The self-alignment structure may include at least one attachment device. The attachment device may be a magnet, a metal structure susceptible to magnetic interactions, or a snap-fit ​​or press-fit structure (or a combination thereof). This improves the robustness of the connection between the cover and the charging or holding case. The self-alignment structure may include at least two attachment devices. The attachment devices may differ in size from each other. Alternatively, the attachment devices may differ in shape from each other.

[0026] Alternatively, the attachment device may exhibit asymmetry relative to the plane of symmetry of the cover, wherein the plane of symmetry is parallel to the thickness direction of the cover. The asymmetry can be caused by the positioning of the attachment device. The attachment device may be a magnet or a metallic structure susceptible to magnetic interactions (or a combination thereof), and the asymmetry may be established by means of the polarity of the attachment device.

[0027] According to a second aspect of the invention, a charging or holding case for an aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The charging or holding case includes a cover according to the first aspect described above.

[0028] According to a third aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is provided. The aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generation apparatus. The aerosol generation system also includes a charging or holding box according to the second aspect described above.

[0029] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for wirelessly charging a charging or holding case for an aerosol generating apparatus. The method includes the step of attaching a cover to the charging or holding case. The cover is the cover according to the first aspect described above.

[0030] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a cover according to the first aspect is provided for wireless charging of a charging or holding case.

[0031] This disclosure includes various aspects, embodiments, and examples. The features, advantages, and explanations disclosed with reference to any of these aspects, embodiments, and examples may be combined with or transferred to any of the other aspects, embodiments, and examples described herein.

[0032] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0033] Example Ex1: A flexible cover for a charging or holding case for an electronic device, particularly for a charging or holding case for an aerosol generating device, the cover comprising:

[0034] An attachment portion, the attachment portion being used to removably attach the cover to the charging or holding case; and

[0035] The rigid portion, comprising stacked layers,

[0036] The stacked layer includes an antenna coil for wirelessly receiving power for wirelessly charging the charging or holding box, a heat dissipation layer, and an electromagnetic shielding layer.

[0037] Example Ex2: According to the cover of Example Ex1, the heat dissipation layer includes at least one of the following features:

[0038] a. The heat dissipation layer comprises a metal, preferably aluminum, copper, silver and / or gold;

[0039] b. The heat dissipation layer comprises graphite;

[0040] c. The heat dissipation layer is composed of graphite;

[0041] d. The thickness of the heat dissipation layer is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.5 mm.

[0042] Example Ex3: According to the cover of Example Ex1 or Ex2, the electromagnetic shielding layer includes at least one of the following features:

[0043] a. The electromagnetic shielding layer comprises nanocrystalline materials and / or comprises FeCo50 alloy;

[0044] b. The thickness of the electromagnetic shielding layer is in the range of 0.01 mm to 1 mm.

[0045] Example Ex4: A cover according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the stacked layer further includes a reinforcing layer, the reinforcing layer comprising at least one of the following features:

[0046] a. The reinforcing layer comprises metal and / or plastic materials;

[0047] b. The reinforcing layer comprises polycarbonate (PC), aluminum alloy, and / or stainless steel;

[0048] c. The thickness of the reinforcing layer is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0049] Example Ex5: According to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex4, the antenna coil includes at least one of the following features:

[0050] a. The antenna coil is bonded using a pressure-sensitive adhesive;

[0051] b. The thickness of the antenna coil is approximately 1 mm.

[0052] Example Ex6: A cover according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex5, wherein, when viewed in the thickness direction of the cover from a direction perpendicular to the outer surface portion of the flexible cover toward the charging or holding case, the layers are stacked in any of the following orders:

[0053] a. Outer reinforcing layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, inner reinforcing layer;

[0054] b. Antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, and reinforcement layer;

[0055] c. Reinforcing layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer.

[0056] Example Ex7: According to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex6, the stacked layer further includes electronic components configured to provide information to a user, wherein the electronic components include a display screen and / or LEDs.

[0057] Example Ex8: The cover according to the aforementioned Example Ex7, wherein when viewed from the inside of the cover in the thickness direction of the cover, the electronic components are arranged on top of the stacked layer, wherein the inside of the cover is configured to point towards the charging or holding box when the cover is attached to the charging or holding box.

[0058] Example Ex9: A cover according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex8, comprising a flexible wrapping element configured to reversibly wrap around at least a portion of the charging or holding case, wherein the stacked layer is secured to the flexible wrapping element, preferably partially embedded in the flexible wrapping element, particularly preferably fully embedded in the flexible wrapping element.

[0059] Example Ex10: According to the cap of the aforementioned Example Ex9, the flexible wrapping element includes at least one of the following features:

[0060] a. An inner layer configured to face the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case;

[0061] b. An outer layer configured to be exposed to the outside of the cover when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case;

[0062] c. Fabrics, leather, artificial leather, suede, artificial suede, velvet materials, felt materials, fiber materials, fur materials, multi-layer 3D printing layers, embossed layers, artificial fur-like materials and / or polyurethane (PU) materials.

[0063] d. The thickness of the inner layer and / or the outer layer is in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm;

[0064] e. The stacked layer is sandwiched between the inner layer and the outer layer;

[0065] f. Any one of the antenna coil, the heat dissipation layer, the electromagnetic shielding layer, the reinforcing layer, and the electronic components is combined with any one of the inner layer and the outer layer;

[0066] f. Either the inner layer or the outer layer is translucent, porous, and / or reflective, allowing the underlying display screen and / or LEDs to emit light through.

[0067] Example Ex11: A cover according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex10, wherein the attachment portion includes a self-alignment structure configured to prevent misalignment between the cover and the charging or holding case.

[0068] Example Ex12: According to the cover of the aforementioned Example Ex11, the self-aligning structure includes at least one attachment device, which is a magnet, a metal structure susceptible to magnetic interaction, a snap-fit ​​structure, and / or a press-fit structure.

[0069] Example Ex13: According to the cover of the aforementioned Example Ex12, the self-aligning structure includes at least two attachment devices, the attachment devices

[0070] a. Different from each other in size and / or shape; and / or

[0071] b. Exhibits asymmetry relative to a plane of symmetry parallel to the thickness direction of the cover.

[0072] Example Ex14: The cover according to the aforementioned Example Ex13, wherein the asymmetry is caused by the positioning of the attachment device.

[0073] Example Ex15: According to the cover of Example Ex13 or Ex14, the attachment device is a magnet and / or a metal structure susceptible to magnetic interaction, and the asymmetry is established by means of the polarity of the attachment device.

[0074] Example Ex16: A charging or holding case for an electronic device, the charging or holding case comprising a cover according to any one of the preceding Examples Ex1 to Ex15.

[0075] Example Ex17: The charging or holding box according to Example Ex16, wherein the electronic device is an aerosol generating device.

[0076] Example Ex18: A system including an electronic device and a charging or holding box according to the aforementioned Example Ex16.

[0077] Example Ex19: In the system of the aforementioned Example Ex18, the electronic device is an aerosol generating device.

[0078] Example Ex20: A method for wirelessly charging a charging or holding case for an electronic device, the method comprising:

[0079] a. Attach a cover to the charging or holding box, the cover being a cover according to any one of the foregoing examples Ex1 to Ex15;

[0080] b. Wirelessly transmit power to the antenna coil of the cover.

[0081] Example Ex21: The cover according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex15 above is used for wireless charging of the charging or holding case. Attached Figure Description

[0082] The examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0083] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of an aerosol generation system is shown;

[0084] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an aerosol generation system is shown, illustrating the charging or holding box of the aerosol generation system in a partially disassembled state.

[0085] Figure 3 A perspective view of the flexible cover according to the first embodiment is shown;

[0086] Figure 4 A perspective view of the flexible cover according to the first embodiment is shown, wherein the flexible wrapping element and the upper reinforcing layer are omitted;

[0087] Figure 5 An enlarged perspective view of the stacked layers of the flexible cover according to the first embodiment is shown, wherein the flexible wrapping element and the upper reinforcing layer are omitted;

[0088] Figure 6 The arrangement of the first layer along the thickness direction of the flexible cover is shown;

[0089] Figure 7 The arrangement of the second layer along the thickness direction of the flexible cover is shown;

[0090] Figure 8 The figure shows the test results of wireless power transmission efficiency for different combinations of materials;

[0091] Figure 9 The first example of a self-aligned structure is shown.

[0092] Figure 10 A second example of a self-aligned structure is shown.

[0093] Figure 11 A third example of a self-aligned structure is shown.

[0094] Figure 12 A fourth example of a self-aligned structure is shown.

[0095] Figure 13 The fifth example of a self-aligned structure is shown.

[0096] Figure 14 The sixth example of a self-aligned structure is shown.

[0097] Throughout the claims, the same features are indicated by the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0098] Figure 1 An aerosol generation system 1 is shown. The aerosol generation system 1 includes an aerosol generation device 3. The aerosol generation device 3 may be a handheld electronic device for heating a rod-shaped aerosol generation article to generate aerosols for consumption by a user. The aerosol generation device 3 includes a receiving cavity 5 for receiving the aerosol generation article. The aerosol generation device 3 also includes a heater 7 for heating the aerosol generation article, particularly the aerosol generation segment of the aerosol generation article. For example, the heater 7 may include a resistance heater element or an induction component configured to heat the aerosol generation segment. The aerosol generation device 3 also includes a rechargeable device battery 9 for powering one or more functions of the aerosol generation device 3. In particular, the device battery 9 powers the heater 7. In a variant, the aerosol generation device 3 is a vaporizer-type device for vaporizing a liquid containing one or more active agents.

[0099] The aerosol generation system 1 also includes a charging or holding box 11. The charging or holding box 11 includes a flexible cover 13. Figure 1 In the diagram, the charging or holding case 11 is shown with a flexible cover 13 in a configuration in which the flexible cover 13 is attached to and surrounds the charging or holding case. In this state, the charging or holding case 11 is in a closed state.

[0100] Figure 2 The charging or holding case 11 is shown in a partially disassembled state. (See diagram.) Figure 2 As shown, the charging or holding case 11 also includes a case body 31. The case body 31 defines a docking compartment (or holding cavity or opening) 33. The docking compartment 33 is configured to receive the aerosol generating device 3. The user can store or place the aerosol generating device 3 in the docking compartment 33 of the charging or holding case 11 between uses.

[0101] Furthermore, the charging or holding case 11 includes a charging or holding case battery 35. The charging or holding case battery 35 is received in a battery compartment 37 defined by the case body 31. The charging or holding case battery 35 is in electrical contact with the battery interface of the charging or holding case 11. The battery interface is electrically connected to an electrical device interface disposed in the docking compartment 33. When the aerosol generating device 3 is received in the docking compartment 33, the aerosol generating device 3 can be electrically connected to the electrical device interface to allow charging of the device battery 9 from the charging or holding case battery 35. Therefore, the device battery 9 can be recharged between uses, or while stored or placed in the docking compartment 33.

[0102] like Figure 2 As further shown, the charging or holding case 11 includes a battery compartment cover 39. The battery compartment cover 39 is operable between a closed state and an open state. In the closed state, the battery compartment cover 39 prevents the charging or holding case battery 35 within the battery compartment 37 from being accessed and removed. In the closed state, the battery compartment cover 39 is reversibly attached to the case body 31, for example, via a snap-fit ​​connection. The snap-fit ​​connection includes a structure 41 provided at the battery compartment cover 39 and a corresponding structure 43 provided at the case body 31. Figure 2 The image shows the open state. In the open state, the battery compartment cover 39 allows access to the battery compartment 37 to remove or insert the charging or holding battery 35.

[0103] In addition, the charging or holding case 11 includes a housing portion 45 attached to the case body 31. The housing portion 45 may be made of metal and forms at least a portion of the appearance of the charging or holding case 11.

[0104] The flexible cover 13 can be removably attached to the box body 31. For this purpose, the flexible cover 13 includes an attachment portion 19. Figure 3 A flexible cover 13 removed from the box body 31 is shown. The flexible cover 13 includes a flexible wrapping member 15. The flexible wrapping member 15 includes a free end 27 of the flexible cover 13. The flexible wrapping member 15 is configured to reversibly wrap around the box body 31, while the flexible cover 13 is attached to the box body 31 via an attachment portion 19.

[0105] A latch 29 is provided at the free end 27 of the flexible cover 15. The latch 29 is configured to be reversibly attached to the box body 31. Preferably, the latch 29 includes a magnet, which is included in or attached to the flexible cover 13. The free end 27 can be attached to the box body 31 to charge or keep the box 11 in a closed configuration. Figure 1 The closed construction is shown in the figure.

[0106] The flexible wrapping element 15 includes an inner surface 47 and an outer surface 49. The flexible cover 13... Figure 1 With the structure shown attached to the box body 31, the inner surface 47 faces the box body 31. Additionally, in this state, the outer surface 49 points outwards, meaning it is exposed to the outside of the flexible cover 13.

[0107] The inner surface 47 and the outer surface 49 are formed by an inner layer 51 and an outer layer 52, respectively. The inner layer 51 and the outer layer 52 may be formed of the same material or they may be formed of different materials. For example, the outer layer 52 may comprise fabric or polyurethane (PU), and the inner layer 51 may comprise microwoven fabric. Furthermore, as an example, the layer thickness of the outer layer 52 may be 0.65 mm, and the layer thickness of the inner layer 51 may be 0.55 mm.

[0108] Figure 4 The diagram shows the state of the flexible cover 13, with the flexible wrapping element 15 and the outer reinforcing layer 53 omitted. As can be seen from the figure, a first reinforcing element 63 is embedded at the free end 27 of the flexible wrapping element 15. The first reinforcing element 63 can be embedded between the inner layer 51 and the outer layer 52. The first reinforcing element 63 can also be combined with either the inner layer 51 or the outer layer 52. The first reinforcing element 63 is formed of a plastic material and enhances the stiffness and durability of the free end 27.

[0109] Furthermore, at least within the wireless charging area 61, the flexible cover 13 includes a stacked layer 17. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the embodiment depicted, the stacked layer 17 is embedded in the flexible package 15. Figure 2 In the diagram, stacked layer 17 is indicated by a dashed line, which lies within the dashed line indicating the wireless charging area 61. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 3 As can be seen, the stacked layer 17 is embedded in the flexible cover 15, creating a slight protrusion in the wireless charging region 61. Alternatively, the stacked layer 17 may be embedded in the flexible cover 15 such that the outer surface 49 of the flexible cover 13 within the wireless charging region 61 is flush with the outer surface 49 surrounding the wireless charging region 61.

[0110] Figure 5 An enlarged perspective view of the stacked layer 17 is shown, omitting the flexible wrapping 15 and the outer reinforcing layer 53. (See attached image.) Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the stacked layer 17 includes an inner reinforcing layer 60, an antenna coil 55, an electromagnetic shielding layer 57, and a heat dissipation layer 59. The inner reinforcing layer 60, the antenna coil 55, the electromagnetic shielding layer 57, and the heat dissipation layer 59 at least partially overlap each other.

[0111] An exemplary first layer of the flexible cover 13 is arranged within the wireless charging area 61. Figure 6 It is shown along the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. (As shown) Figure 6 As shown, the stacked layer 17 is completely embedded between the inner layer 51 and the outer layer 52 of the flexible cover 15. The stacked layer 17 includes an outer reinforcing layer 53, an antenna coil 55, an electromagnetic shielding layer 57, a heat dissipation layer 59, and an inner reinforcing layer 60. Starting from the outer layer 52, these layers are directly stacked on top of each other in this order along the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. Coupling agents, such as adhesives, may be applied between some or all of these layers.

[0112] As described above, various aspects of the present invention are not limited to Figure 6 The layer arrangement is as depicted. Specifically, either the inner reinforcing layer 60 or the outer reinforcing layer 53 may be omitted. Furthermore, the inner reinforcing layer 60 may be merged with the inner layer 51. For example, the inner reinforcing layer 60 may be merged with the inner layer 51 such that the inner reinforcing layer 60 forms at least a portion of the inner surface 47. In this case, the inner reinforcing layer 60 is preferably flush with the remainder of the inner layer 51. Alternatively, the outer reinforcing layer 53 may be merged with the outer layer 52. For example, the outer reinforcing layer 53 may be merged with the outer layer 52 such that the outer reinforcing layer 53 forms at least a portion of the outer surface 49. In this case, the outer reinforcing layer 53 is preferably flush with the remainder of the outer layer 52.

[0113] An exemplary second layer of the flexible cover 13 is arranged within the wireless charging area 61. Figure 7 The image is shown along the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. Except for the differences described below, the explanation provided above regarding the first layer arrangement also applies to the second layer arrangement.

[0114] like Figure 7 As shown, stacked layer 17 may also include a display 54. Display 54 is positioned as the top layer of stacked layer 17, or at least partially embedded in the underlying layer (e.g., outer reinforcing layer 53). Figure 7In the fully embedded state depicted, the display 54 is sandwiched between the outer layer 52 and the outer reinforcing layer 53. In this state, the thickness and material of the outer layer 52 are chosen to conceal the display 54, making the electronic components forming the display 54 invisible from the outside of the flexible cover 13. Simultaneously, the thickness and material of the outer layer 52 are chosen to allow light from the display 54 to pass through, thereby providing information to the user. For example, the outer layer 52 can be a translucent, porous, or reflective layer (or a combination thereof). The outer layer 52 may comprise fabric, leather, artificial leather, suede, faux suede, velvet material, felt material, fibrous material, fur or faux fur-like material, multilayer 3D printed layers, embossed layers, or polyurethane (PU) material, or a combination thereof.

[0115] Exemplary materials for either of the aforementioned reinforcing layers 53 and 60 may be polycarbonate (PC), stainless steel, or aluminum alloy. These materials provide a stable support structure for the antenna coil 55. In particular, at least one reinforcing layer 53, 60 is included to prevent the antenna coil 55 from bending, folding, wrinkling, or twisting. Otherwise, a bent, folded, or twisted coil would significantly reduce the efficiency of wireless power transmission and could lead to breakage or tearing of one or more windings of the coil, which could cause malfunctions and potentially pose a risk of electric shock and fire.

[0116] To improve heat dissipation, the heat dissipation layer 59 comprises graphite, aluminum, copper, silver, or gold (or a combination thereof). For optimal heat dissipation, it is preferred that the heat dissipation layer 59 comprises graphite.

[0117] In the tests, different combinations of materials were examined to assess their impact on wireless power transmission efficiency. The tests were conducted at room temperature. During the tests, the transmitter board was supplied with DC voltage, and the receiver board was connected to a load. The input DC voltage and current, as well as the output DC voltage and current, were measured.

[0118] Test results in Figure 8 The diagram shows the application of the first-layer layout ( Figure 6 (Shown in the diagram) is the layer arrangement to be inspected. For each group, the inner layer 51 and the outer layer 52 comprise fabric. As the antenna coil 55, a 20uH antenna is used for each group. In addition, as the electromagnetic shielding layer 57, a 1 mm thick nanocrystalline layer is used for each group.

[0119] Figure 8 The diagram shown illustrates the power transmission efficiency depending on the load current of the receiving antenna coil. Table 1 below shows the materials and layer thicknesses (in mm) tested for the outer reinforcing layer 53, inner reinforcing layer 60, and heat dissipation layer 59:

[0120]

[0121] like Figure 8The test results shown indicate that using stainless steel as the material for either of the reinforcing layers 53 or 60 significantly reduces charging efficiency. In particular, stainless steel (and aluminum alloys) may draw additional current from the transmitter, resulting in additional power loss in the power path between the transmitter and receiver, and causing additional unwanted heat generation. Furthermore, according to the test results, a thicker graphite layer in the heat dissipation layer 59 results in better charging efficiency. Graphite reduces the resistance of the receiver and thus improves transmission efficiency.

[0122] The electromagnetic shielding layer 57 may comprise nanocrystalline materials or FeCo50 (or a combination thereof). These materials help concentrate the magnetic field generated during wireless power transmission. Specifically, as described above, the flexible cover 13 wraps around the housing body 31 during use. Generally, the housing body 31 is made of aluminum alloy. This material significantly reduces charging efficiency. Therefore, the electromagnetic shielding layer 57 is disposed below the antenna coil 55, i.e., between the housing body 31 and the antenna coil 55. The electromagnetic shielding layer 57 extends at least over a certain area to cover the portion of the housing body 31 exposed to the antenna coil 55. Preferably, the electromagnetic shielding layer 57 extends at least over a certain area to cover the entire portion of the housing body 31 that may be exposed to the wireless charging transmitter.

[0123] like Figure 2 , 3 As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the attachment portion 19 of the flexible cover 13 includes a plurality of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25. In the embodiments depicted in these figures, the attachment portion 19 includes three attachment devices 21, 23, and 25. However, the invention is not limited to this number of attachment devices.

[0124] like Figure 4 As shown, attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 can be supported by a second reinforcing element 65. For example, the second reinforcing element 65 can be made of a plastic material. The second reinforcing element 65 is provided to secure the relative positioning of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25. Furthermore, the second reinforcing element 65 facilitates the attachment of the flexible cover 13 to and the removal of the flexible cover from the charging or holding case 31.

[0125] For each of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25, corresponding counterparts 67, 69, and 71 are respectively provided at the charging or holding case 31. Attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 and their corresponding counterparts 67, 69, and 71 are configured such that the flexible cover 13 can be reversibly attached to the charging or holding case 31. This reversible attachment can be achieved, for example, through snap-fit ​​and press-fit structures and mechanisms, hook-and-loop fasteners, magnets, or metal structures susceptible to magnetic interactions. Attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 do not necessarily have to be equal to each other.

[0126] According to some aspects of the invention, the attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 form a self-aligning structure. This self-aligning structure prevents or inhibits the user from attaching the flexible cover 13 to the case body 31 with incorrect orientation. Otherwise, wireless charging would be impossible.

[0127] Figures 9 to 14 A non-exhaustive number of instances of self-aligned structures are provided. Figures 9 to 14 Each of them is viewed from the bottom (i.e., in the state where the flexible cover 13 is attached to the box body 31 and wraps around the box body). Figure 1 (As shown below) When viewed from the side facing the box body 31 along the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13, the flexible cover 13 is shown. Figures 9 to 14 In each of these, the chain line indicates the plane of symmetry 300 of the flexible cover 13. The plane of symmetry 300 is parallel to the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. Furthermore, in Figures 9 to 14 In each of these, the dotted line indicates the arrangement direction 400, along which the attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 are arranged. The arrangement direction 400 is perpendicular to the plane of symmetry 300.

[0128] exist Figure 9 In the example depicted, attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 are magnets. Each magnet is polarized in a direction parallel to the plane of symmetry 300 and parallel to the thickness direction 200 of the flexible cover 13. In other words, the magnetic field lines of each of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 extend parallel to the plane of symmetry 300, perpendicular to the arrangement direction 400, and parallel to the thickness direction 200. A self-aligned structure is established by means of the polarities of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25. Specifically, when viewed along the thickness direction 200, the N poles of two adjacent attachment devices 21 and 23 are located on the same side. The S pole of the remaining attachment device 25 is located on the same side as the N poles of the two adjacent attachment devices 21 and 23. Therefore, the polarities of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 exhibit an asymmetry relative to the plane of symmetry 300. The corresponding counterparts 67, 69, and 71 exhibit polarity such that when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented and attached to the box body 31, the attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 are attracted. Therefore, if a user attempts to incorrectly engage the flexible cover 13, the flexible cover 13 cannot be pushed toward the box body 31, making it impossible to attach to the box body 31 in the wrong orientation.

[0129] exist Figure 10In the example depicted, attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 are magnets. Each magnet is polarized in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction 400 and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry 300. Therefore, the magnetic field lines of each attachment device 21, 23, and 25 extend parallel to the arrangement direction 400 and perpendicular to the plane of symmetry 300. The self-aligned structure is established by means of the polarities of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25. Specifically, when viewed along the arrangement direction 400, the magnetic field lines of two adjacent attachment devices 21 and 23 of the three attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 are shown in the same direction. For example, in Figure 10 In the diagram, the magnetic field lines of adjacent attachment devices 21 and 23 point to the right. The magnetic field lines of the remaining attachment device 25 are shown pointing towards the opposite side, i.e. towards... Figure 10 The left side of the plane of symmetry. Therefore, the polarities of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 exhibit asymmetry relative to the plane of symmetry 300. Corresponding counterparts 67, 69, and 71 show polarities such that attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 are attracted when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented and attached to the box body 31. Therefore, if a user attempts to incorrectly engage the flexible cover 13, the flexible cover 13 cannot be pushed toward the box body 31, making it impossible to attach to the box body 31 in the wrong orientation.

[0130] exist Figure 11 In the examples depicted, attachment devices 21, 23 and 25 each include a snap-fit ​​structure configured to engage with corresponding counterparts 67, 69 and 71, respectively. Figure 11 The attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 shown are of the same size but are arranged asymmetrically along the arrangement direction 400 relative to the plane of symmetry 300. Figure 11 In the example shown, when viewed along the arrangement direction 400, the outer attachment devices 21 and 25 are equidistant from the right and left edges of the flexible cover 13, respectively. Additionally, the middle attachment device 23 is positioned closer to the left-side attachment device 25 than to the right-side attachment device 21. Therefore, the positioning of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 exhibits asymmetry with respect to the plane of symmetry 300. Corresponding devices 67, 69, and 71 are correspondingly positioned at the box body 31. Thus, the flexible cover 13 can only be attached to the box body 31 when it is correctly oriented relative to it.

[0131] Similar to Figure 11 , Figure 12The example depicted establishes a self-aligned structure via the asymmetrical positioning of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 relative to the plane of symmetry 300. In this example, attachment device 23, located between attachment devices 21 and 25 (on the right and left sides respectively), is symmetrically positioned relative to the plane of symmetry 300. However, the distance between the right-side attachment device 21 and the right edge of the flexible cover 13 is greater than the distance between the left-side attachment device 25 and the left edge of the flexible cover 13. Therefore, the positioning of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 exhibits asymmetry relative to the plane of symmetry 300. Correspondingly, attachments 67, 69, and 71 are positioned at the box body 31. Thus, the flexible cover 13 can only be attached to the box body 31 when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented relative to the box body 31.

[0132] exist Figure 13 In the examples depicted, self-aligned structures are established through the sizing and positioning of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25. For example... Figure 13 As shown, when measured along the arrangement direction 400, the length 230 of the attachment device 23 in the middle is shorter than the length 210 of the attachment device 21 located on the right. Furthermore, the length 230 is shorter than the length 250 of the attachment device 25 located on the left. Additionally, the position of the attachment device 23 located between attachment devices 21 and 25 is asymmetrically positioned relative to the plane of symmetry 300. Correspondingly, objects 67, 69, and 71 are correspondingly sized and positioned at the box body 31. Therefore, the flexible cover 13 can only be attached to the box body 31 when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented relative to the box body 31.

[0133] exist Figure 14 In the examples depicted, self-aligned structures are established through the dimensional settings of attachment devices 21, 23, and 25. For example... Figure 14 As shown, when measured along the arrangement direction 400, the length 230 of the attachment device 23 in the middle is longer than the length 250 of the attachment device 25 located on the left. Furthermore, the length 250 is longer than the length 210 of the attachment device 21 located on the right. Corresponding devices 67, 69, and 71 are correspondingly sized and positioned at the box body 31. Therefore, the flexible cover 13 can only be attached to the box body 31 when the flexible cover 13 is correctly oriented relative to the box body 31.

[0134] Apart from Figures 9 to 14In addition to the examples depicted and described above, attachment devices 21, 23, and 25 may also be established using snap-fit ​​elements. Furthermore, the type of attachment device is not necessarily the same for all attachment devices 21, 23, and 25. For example, one attachment device may include a magnet, and the remaining attachment devices may be formed by snap-fit ​​elements, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other reversible attachment mechanisms. Additionally, the self-aligning structures described above may be combined. That is, self-aligning structures can be established through any combination of sizing, shaping, positioning, or polarization of the attachment devices.

[0135] like Figure 3 and 4 Further depiction shows that the flexible cover 13 is provided with an electrical interface 73. The electrical interface 73 may include a spring pin attached to the second reinforcing element 65. The electrical interface 73 may be electrically connected to the antenna coil 55, for example, by means of a flexible printed circuit board 75. The flexible printed circuit board 75 may be integrally formed in the flexible enclosure 15. The antenna coil 55 itself may be part of the flexible printed circuit board 75.

[0136] The charging or holding box 11 may also be equipped with a wireless charging circuit system (not shown in the figure). The wireless charging circuit system may be equipped with a rectifier circuit to convert AC power into DC power. The wireless charging circuit system may also be equipped with a communication module for communicating with the wireless charging transmitter.

[0137] The box body 31 is provided with a box-side electrical interface (not shown in the figure). When the flexible cover 13 is attached to the box body 31, the electrical interface 73 is electrically connected to the box-side electrical interface.

[0138] When combined with a suitable wireless charging station, antenna coil 55 can charge charging or holding case battery 35. For example, antenna coil 55 receives AC wireless signals from a wireless charging transmitter. The received AC power is converted into DC power by the rectifier circuit of the wireless charging circuit system. The converted DC power is transmitted via electrical interface 73 to the battery charger IC for charging charging or holding case battery 35.

[0139] The charging or holding battery 35 powers the main control unit (MCU). The charging or holding battery 35 can also power other modules, such as the heating module.

[0140] The MCU can check the electrical connection between electrical interface 73 and the box-side electrical interface. For example, the wireless charging circuitry system can be an IC that also includes a communication circuitry system for reporting wireless charging activity to the MCU.

[0141] When display 54 is provided, the MCU can instruct display 54 to provide information about the charging status. The MCU can instruct display 54 to display the capacity level, charging mode, or charging progress of the charging or holding battery 35 (or any combination thereof). For example, under normal conditions, in the event of a wireless charging event, the MCU instructs display 54 to display information indicating that wireless charging is enabled.

[0142] If the antenna coil 55 and the wireless charging transmitter are not properly aligned, the receiving IC may have a low-level pin signal indicating unsuccessful communication. That is, before power transmission, the wireless power transmitter sends a pin signal to check for the presence of any wireless charging receiver. In the event of a low-level pin signal, the MCU can instruct the display 54 to show a message indicating that wireless charging is on but has not been successful. For example, the message could indicate that the charging area 61 is not correctly positioned.

[0143] The MCU can sample the temperature of the antenna coil 55. Alternatively, the MCU can sample the temperature of the flexible cover 13. Multiple temperatures can be detected by a thermistor. The thermistor can be provided to the flexible cover 13 and electrically connected to the flexible printed circuit board 75. The output of the thermistor can be converted by an analog-to-digital converter. By sampling the temperature, the MCU can control the charging current. For example, if the temperature of the flexible cover 13 becomes too high, the MCU can send a command to the battery charger IC to reduce the charging current, and vice versa. The MCU can also sample the charging current and voltage of the charging or holding battery 35 to monitor the state of the charging or holding battery 35.

[0144] For example, when a user has just finished using the aerosol generating device 3, the device 3 may still be at a high temperature. If the user recharges the device 3 in this state, the charging process will generate even more heat. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 3, or the charging or holding box 11, may overheat, thus posing a risk to user safety, battery life, and lifespan.

[0145] Therefore, the power delivered to the battery can be regulated using a thermistor. Specifically, the MCU can request temperature measurements of the antenna coil 55 and / or the flexible cover 13. An analog-to-digital converter is used to convert the voltage generated by a voltage divider circuit consisting of the thermistor and another resistor into a digital value, which can be processed by the MCU to determine the temperature. If the temperature inside the flexible cover 13 is greater than a threshold (e.g., 60°C), the MCU will send a command to the charger IC to reduce the charging current. If the temperature inside the flexible cover is lower than the threshold, the MCU will send a command to the charger IC to increase the charging current. Therefore, the normal operating temperature can be set within the range of 0°C to 60°C.

Claims

1. A flexible cover for a charging or holding box of an aerosol generating device, the cover comprising: An attachment portion for removably attaching the cover to the charging or holding case; as well as The rigid portion, comprising stacked layers, The stacked layer includes an antenna coil for wirelessly receiving power for wirelessly charging the charging or holding box, a heat dissipation layer, and an electromagnetic shielding layer.

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

3. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electromagnetic shielding layer comprises at least one of the following features: a. The electromagnetic shielding layer comprises nanocrystalline materials and / or comprises FeCo50 alloy; b. The thickness of the electromagnetic shielding layer is in the range of 0.01 mm to 1 mm.

4. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stacked layer further comprises a reinforcing layer, the reinforcing layer comprising at least one of the following features: a. The reinforcing layer comprises metal and / or plastic materials; b. The reinforcing layer comprises polycarbonate (PC), aluminum alloy, and / or stainless steel; c. The thickness of the reinforcing layer is in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

5. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the antenna coil comprises at least one of the following features: a. The antenna coil is bonded using a pressure-sensitive adhesive; b. The thickness of the antenna coil is approximately 1 mm.

6. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, viewed from the outer side of the cover pointing outward in the thickness direction of the cover when the cover is configured to be attached to the charging or holding case, the layers are stacked in any of the following order: a. Outer reinforcing layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, inner reinforcing layer; b. Antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer, and reinforcement layer; c. Reinforcing layer, antenna coil, electromagnetic shielding layer, heat dissipation layer.

7. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stacked layer further comprises electronic components configured to provide information to a user, wherein the electronic components include a display screen and / or LEDs.

8. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein electronic components are arranged on top of the stacked layer when viewed from the inside of the cover in the thickness direction of the cover, wherein the inside of the cover is configured to point towards the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case.

9. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, the cover comprising a flexible wrapping member configured to reversibly wrap around at least a portion of the charging or holding case, wherein the stacked layer is secured to the flexible wrapping member, preferably partially embedded in the flexible wrapping member, particularly preferably fully embedded in the flexible wrapping member.

10. The cap of claim 9, wherein the flexible wrapping element comprises at least one of the following features: a. An inner layer configured to face the charging or holding case when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case; b. An outer layer configured to be exposed to the outside of the cover when the cover is attached to the charging or holding case; c. Fabrics, leather, and / or polyurethane (PU) materials; d. The thickness of the inner layer and / or the outer layer is in the range of 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm; e. The stacked layer is sandwiched between the inner layer and the outer layer; f. Any one of the antenna coil, the heat dissipation layer, the electromagnetic shielding layer, and the reinforcing layer is combined with any one of the inner layer and the outer layer; g. Either the inner layer or the outer layer is translucent, porous, and / or reflective, allowing the underlying display screen and / or LEDs to emit light through.

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

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

13. A charging or holding case for an aerosol generating apparatus, the charging or holding case comprising a cover according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. A method for wirelessly charging a charging or holding box for an aerosol generating apparatus, the method comprising: a. Attaching a cover to the charging or holding case, the cover being the cover according to any one of claims 1 to 12; b. Wirelessly transmit power to the antenna coil of the cover.

15. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 12 is used for wirelessly charging the charging or holding case.

Images