Aerosol-generating system comprising aerosol-generating device and separate power supply unit

Abstract

An aerosol-generating system comprises a host device 2, a control unit 13 and a power supply unit (18). The power supply unit is configured to be electrically connected to and disconnected from the master device. The main device includes a battery assembly (30) and a power consuming device (14). The aerosol-generating system operates in a first mode of operation in which the battery assembly powers the power consuming device when the power supply unit is electrically disconnected from the host device and a second mode of operation in which the power supply unit powers the power consuming device when the power supply unit is electrically connected to the host device. The power supply unit and / or the battery assembly comprises a plurality of power supplies (19, 20, 21; 10, 11, 12), and the control unit is configured to supply power to the power consuming device by selecting from any one of the plurality of power supplies.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus including a separate power supply unit and an aerosol generating system. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional aerosol generation systems or devices are configured to release aerosols or vapors by heating solid, liquid, or amorphous aerosol-forming substances.

[0003] In particular, some aerosol generation systems are designed to operate by heating tobacco products. For this purpose, aerosol generation systems typically include a handheld electronic device with an integrated heating unit. Once the tobacco product is inserted into the device, the heating unit provides the necessary heat output to release the active ingredients from the tobacco product.

[0004] Another type of aerosol generation system, based on the vaporizer type, heats the aerosol-generating liquid from the cylinder to provide aerosol for user consumption.

[0005] Aerosol generating devices are also used as drug nebulizers or aerosol generators for generating inhalable drug components.

[0006] Generally, the portability of such systems is provided to consumers by integrating a power source that meets the electrical needs of the electronic components within the handheld electronic device. In some known systems, the power source includes a rechargeable battery housed within the casing of the handheld electronic device. Alternatively, in other designs, the aerosol generation system may integrate the main unit and a removable power source, such as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or a conventional removable battery.

[0007] During use, users may experience power outages due to limited battery capacity and may need to replace or recharge the battery frequently. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is provided. The aerosol generation system includes a main device, a control unit, and a power supply unit. The power supply unit is configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from the main device. The main device includes a battery assembly and a power consumption device. The control unit is configured to control the aerosol generation system to operate in a first operating mode, in which the battery assembly supplies power to the power consumption device when the power supply unit is electrically disconnected from the main device. The control unit is configured to control the aerosol generation system to operate in a second operating mode, in which the power supply unit supplies power to the power consumption device when the power supply unit is electrically connected to the main device. In the second operating mode, the power supply unit can directly supply power to the power consumption device. The power supply unit may be a portable power supply unit. The main device may include the control unit.

[0009] Therefore, in the event of a depleted main device battery, it is not necessary to first at least partially recharge the main device's battery before it can be used again. Thus, even when the battery is depleted and / or while it is being charged, the user or consumer can continue using the main device without any time delay. Therefore, in the event of a power outage or malfunction, especially when access to a power outlet or charging options are limited, any waiting time for battery charging is eliminated. This significantly extends the interval between consumable consumption events in a convenient and flexible manner.

[0010] In the second operating mode, the power supply unit can supply power to the power-consuming device without charging the main device's battery pack. Therefore, the power demand of the power-consuming device can be supplied directly using the power from the power supply unit, bypassing the power supply line from the battery pack to the power-consuming device.

[0011] In the second operating mode, the control unit can disconnect the battery pack from the operational interconnection with the power-consuming device. This allows the battery pack to be charged while the main unit continues to be used without any waiting time.

[0012] The control unit can be configured to verify the battery pack's degradation level. When the degradation level is below a predefined threshold and the power unit is electrically connected to the main device, the control unit can control the aerosol generation system to operate in a second operating mode, in which the power unit supplies power to the power-consuming device without charging the battery pack of the main device. Alternatively, when the degradation level is below the predefined threshold and the power unit is electrically connected to the main device, the control unit can control the aerosol generation system to operate in a second operating mode, in which the control unit disconnects the battery pack from its operational interconnection with the power-consuming device.

[0013] The predefined threshold can be equal to or lower than 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of the battery module's capacity. This threshold can be equal to or lower than the battery module's capacity required for at least one utilization cycle, user process, or user experience of the main device. This allows the user to start and complete a full utilization cycle, user process, or user experience of the main device without any risk of power outage. For example, a utilization cycle, user process, or user experience can be defined as the duration for which a user can perform a certain number of pumps from the aerosol generating device or consume a certain amount of aerosol.

[0014] The control unit can be configured to verify whether the aerosol generation system is operating in a first operating mode. If the first operating mode is not operating correctly, the control unit can be configured to enable a second operating mode.

[0015] The main device may include a user interface. In the second operating mode, the control unit may provide notifications via the user interface to instruct operation in the second operating mode.

[0016] The main device may include a first power supply interface and a second power supply interface. The first power supply interface and the second power supply interface may be separate power supply interfaces. The first power supply interface and the second power supply interface may be different types of power supply interfaces. Either the first power supply interface and the second power supply interface may be a charging port. Either the first power supply interface and the second power supply interface may be a standardized charging port, such as a USB charging port, preferably a USB-C charging port. Either the first power supply interface and the second power supply interface may be a wireless charging port.

[0017] Either the first power supply interface or the second power supply interface can be configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from the charging device. Either the first power supply interface or the second power supply interface can be configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from the charging device for charging the battery assembly. The power supply unit can be configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from the main device via at least one of the first and second power supply interfaces. Therefore, the battery assembly can be charged, while the power demand of the main device's power-consuming devices can be supplied from the power supply unit.

[0018] The power unit may include a battery compartment for holding a commercially available battery unit. For example, the battery unit may be a type A, AA, AAA, C, D, PP3, 18650, CR2032, or a combination thereof, which are available for retail purchase. Commercially available battery units are readily available everyday products. Therefore, even when access to power outlets or charging options are limited, users can continue to use the main device by using the power unit and powering it with readily available everyday products.

[0019] The control unit can be configured to control the aerosol generation system to operate in a third operating mode, in which the power unit supplies power to the battery pack when it is electrically connected to the main unit.

[0020] The power-consuming device may include a heater. The heater may be configured to heat the consumable article. The consumable article may have an aerosol-forming matrix having an aerosol-forming material that aerosolizes upon heating by the heater. The aerosol-forming matrix may be a tobacco article, or may include tobacco. The consumable article may include a cylinder having an evaporable liquid (e.g., a nicotine-containing liquid).

[0021] The power supply unit can be configured to be reversibly attached to the host device. The power supply unit can be configured to be reversibly attached to the host device via a snap-fit ​​structure, a button snap-fit ​​structure, a press-fit structure, a hook-and-loop fastener, a magnet, a metal structure susceptible to magnetic interaction, a sliding and locking structure, or a combination thereof. This allows the power supply unit to be mechanically attached to the host device in an easy and reversible manner. Therefore, the electrical connection between the power supply unit and the host device can be mechanically stable and secure.

[0022] The power supply unit can be configured to enable wireless power transfer. The power supply unit can be configured to achieve wireless power transfer via inductive coupling to the main device. The power supply unit can be configured to achieve wireless power transfer to supply the power needs of power-consuming devices. Alternatively, the power supply unit can be configured to achieve wireless power transfer for charging battery components. Therefore, the watertightness of the main device may not be affected by the power supply unit, as it may not be necessary to provide any openings in the main device for electrical connection between the power supply unit and the main device. This can improve the watertightness, security, and lifespan of the main device.

[0023] A power supply unit may include a single power source. Preferably, the power supply unit may include multiple power sources. A battery assembly may include a single power source. Preferably, the battery assembly may include multiple power sources. The power supply unit and / or battery assembly may include multiple power sources, and the control unit may be configured to supply power to the power-consuming device by selecting from any of the multiple power sources. The power supply unit and / or battery assembly may include at least two different types of multiple power sources. By including multiple types of power sources and portable power supply units, continuous power supply to the main device can be ensured. In particular, it is possible to appropriately supply the different power demands required during the operation of the main device. During the initial operation phase, the power-consuming device of the main device may require a power surge. For example, during the initial operation phase, the heating unit of the aerosol generating device typically requires a power surge to reach the required temperature. This energy peak may impose significant strain on the power source, potentially leading to accelerated degradation and a shortened overall lifespan. By employing multiple power sources, preferably multiple power sources of different types, a specific type of power source can be used for peak power demands, and another specific type of power source can be used to switch to a larger capacity battery for the regular operation of the main device. Therefore, efficient energy distribution and optimal power utilization can be ensured throughout the operation of the main device. Therefore, accelerated degradation of battery components and / or power units and shortening of overall battery life can be suppressed.

[0024] At least one power source may include a thin-film battery, a removable battery, a supercapacitor, a rechargeable battery, a waste battery, or a combination thereof. As explained above, the integration of various batteries can allow for efficient energy management and can extend the overall battery life of the main unit and / or power supply unit.

[0025] Including a thin battery within the main unit and / or power unit optimizes the use of internal space. The thin battery is designed to be compact, occupying minimal space while providing sufficient power capacity. This efficient use of internal space allows for compact and portable device designs without compromising performance or power requirements.

[0026] Thin batteries may include flexible batteries and / or planar batteries. Thin batteries may include single-cell or multi-cell batteries. Thin batteries may include lithium polymer (Li-Po) batteries, solid-state batteries, printed batteries, or thin-film batteries.

[0027] Including replaceable, rechargeable, discardable, and / or removable batteries can provide users with flexibility in power management. This solves the problem of relying on a single power source and allows users to choose the most suitable option based on their specific needs and available resources.

[0028] Removable batteries may include alkaline batteries, lithium batteries, zinc-carbon batteries, silver oxide batteries, zinc-air batteries, or mercury batteries.

[0029] Supercapacitors can be provided to supply peak power demand and thus prevent the accelerated degradation of surplus power.

[0030] Supercapacitors can include electrochemical double-layer capacitors, pseudocapacitors, or hybrid capacitors.

[0031] The power unit may include a supercapacitor and a battery. The battery may be a removable battery, a rechargeable battery, a waste battery, or a combination thereof. Therefore, the power unit includes a supercapacitor as one of at least two power sources. This eliminates any drawbacks in power performance when the aerosol generation system operates in a second operating mode. For example, in the aforementioned use case, the heater can quickly reach its operating temperature without waiting for the limited power (current) that can be provided by the battery from another unit. This accelerates the startup and user process / experience of using the power unit and provides added value as a separate accessory.

[0032] The battery assembly can be housed in a casing. The casing material may include plastic, metal, composite material, or a combination thereof. Casing materials may include ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, PET, aluminum, stainless steel, metal alloy, or a combination thereof.

[0033] The battery assembly and / or power unit may be supported by a printed circuit board (PCB). At least one power source of the battery assembly may be supported by a PCB. At least one power source of the power unit may be supported by a PCB. The PCB may be single-sided, double-sided, multilayer, flexible, rigid-flexible, HDI, metal-core PCB, or a combination thereof.

[0034] The main device can be an aerosol generating device. The main device can also be a charging or holding box for the aerosol generating device.

[0035] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for supplying power to an aerosol generation system according to the first aspect is provided. The method includes operating the aerosol generation system in a first operating mode, in which a battery assembly supplies power to a power-consuming device when a power supply unit is electrically disconnected from a main device. The method further includes operating the aerosol generation system in a second operating mode, in which the power supply unit supplies power to the power-consuming device when the power supply unit is electrically connected to the main device.

[0036] According to a third aspect of the invention, an aerosol generation system according to the first aspect is provided for use in supplying power to an electrical consumption device.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] Example Ex1: An aerosol generation system, comprising a main unit, a control unit, and a power supply unit.

[0040] The power supply unit is configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from the main device.

[0041] The main device includes a battery pack and a power consumption device.

[0042] The control unit is configured to control the aerosol generation system to operate in a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein in the first operating mode, the battery assembly supplies power to the power-consuming device when the power unit is electrically disconnected from the main device, and in the second operating mode, the power unit supplies power to the power-consuming device when the power unit is electrically connected to the main device.

[0043] Example Ex2: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex1, wherein in the second operating mode, the power supply unit supplies power to the power consuming device without charging the battery assembly of the main device.

[0044] Example Ex3: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein in the second operating mode, the control unit disconnects the battery assembly from the operational interconnection with the power consuming device.

[0045] Example Ex4: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the control unit is configured to verify the depletion level of the battery assembly, and when the depletion level is below a predefined threshold and the power supply unit is electrically connected to the main device, the control unit is configured to control the aerosol generation system to operate in a second operating mode, in which the power supply unit supplies power to the power-consuming device without charging the battery assembly of the main device, and / or in the second operating mode, the control unit disconnects the battery assembly from the operational interconnection with the power-consuming device.

[0046] Example Ex5: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex4, wherein the control unit is configured to verify whether the aerosol generation system is operating in the first operating mode, and to enable the second operating mode if the first operating mode is not operating correctly.

[0047] Example Ex6: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex5, wherein the main unit includes a user interface, and in the second operating mode, the control unit provides a notification via the user interface to instruct operation in the second operating mode.

[0048] Example Ex7: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex6, wherein the main device includes a first power supply interface (preferably USB-C or a wireless charging port) and a second power supply interface (preferably USB-C or a wireless charging port).

[0049] Example Ex8: According to the aerosol generation system of the previous Example Ex7, wherein the first power supply interface is configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from a charging device preferably used to charge the battery assembly, and wherein the power supply unit is configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from the main device via the second power supply interface.

[0050] Example Ex9: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex8, wherein the power unit includes a battery compartment for holding a commercially available battery cell, preferably a type A, AA, AAA, C, D, PP3, 18650, CR2032 or a combination thereof.

[0051] Example Ex10: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex9, wherein the control unit is configured to control the aerosol generation system to operate in a third operating mode, wherein the power supply unit supplies power to the battery assembly when the power supply unit is electrically connected to the main device.

[0052] Example Ex11: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex10, wherein the main device includes the control unit.

[0053] Example Ex12: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex11, wherein the power consuming device includes a heater.

[0054] Example Ex13: An aerosol generation system according to the previous Example Ex12, wherein the heater is configured to heat a consumable article having an aerosol forming matrix having an aerosol forming material that aerosolizes when heated by the heater, wherein preferably, the aerosol forming matrix is ​​a tobacco article or includes tobacco.

[0055] Example Ex14: An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex12, wherein the heater is configured to heat a consumable article, wherein the consumable article includes a cylinder having an evaporable liquid (preferably a nicotine-containing liquid).

[0056] Example Ex15: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex14, wherein the power supply unit is configured to be reversibly attached to the main device, preferably by means of a snap-fit ​​structure, a button snap-fit ​​structure, a press-fit structure, a hook-and-loop fastener, a sliding and locking structure, a magnet and / or a metal structure susceptible to magnetic interaction.

[0057] Example Ex16: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex15, wherein the power unit is configured to enable wireless power transmission, preferably via inductive coupling to the main device, particularly preferably for charging the battery assembly.

[0058] Example Ex17: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex16, wherein the power supply unit includes at least one power supply, preferably multiple power supplies.

[0059] Example Ex18: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the battery assembly includes at least one power source, preferably multiple power sources.

[0060] Example Ex19: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex17 or Ex18, wherein the power unit and / or the battery assembly includes a plurality of power sources, and the control unit is configured to supply power to the power-consuming device by selecting from any one of the plurality of power sources.

[0061] Example Ex20: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex17 to Ex19, wherein the power unit and / or the battery assembly comprises at least two different types of multiple power sources.

[0062] Example Ex21: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex17 to Ex20, wherein the at least one power source comprises a thin battery, a removable battery, a supercapacitor, a rechargeable battery, a waste battery, or a combination thereof.

[0063] Example Ex22: The aerosol generation system according to Example Ex21, wherein the thin battery includes a flexible battery, a planar battery, preferably a single-cell or multi-cell battery, particularly preferably a lithium polymer (Li-Po) battery, a solid-state battery, a printed battery or a thin-film battery.

[0064] Example Ex23: The aerosol generation system according to Example Ex21, wherein the removable battery includes an alkaline battery, a lithium battery, a zinc-carbon battery, a silver oxide battery, a zinc-air battery, or a mercury battery.

[0065] Example Ex24: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex21, wherein the supercapacitor comprises an electrochemical double-layer capacitor, a pseudocapacitor, or a hybrid capacitor.

[0066] Example Ex25: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex24, wherein the battery assembly is housed in a housing.

[0067] Example Ex26: An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex25, wherein the material of the housing includes plastic, preferably ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene or PET; metal, preferably aluminum or stainless steel; metal alloy; composite material; or a combination thereof.

[0068] Example Ex27: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex26, wherein the battery assembly and / or the power unit is supported by a printed circuit board (PCB), preferably by a single-sided, double-sided, multi-layer, flexible, rigid-flexible, HDI, or metal core PCB.

[0069] Example Ex28: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex27, wherein the main device is an aerosol generation device.

[0070] Example Ex29: An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex27, wherein the main device is a charging or holding box for the aerosol generation device.

[0071] Example Ex30: A method for supplying power to an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex29, the method comprising:

[0072] The aerosol generation system is operated in the first operating mode, in which the battery assembly supplies power to the power-consuming device when the power unit is electrically disconnected from the main device.

[0073] The aerosol generation system is operated in the second operating mode, in which the power supply unit supplies power to the power consumption device when the power supply unit is electrically connected to the main device.

[0074] Example Ex31: The use of an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex29 for supplying power to the power-consuming device. Attached Figure Description

[0075] The examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0076] Figure 1 A perspective view of an aerosol generation system according to a first embodiment is shown, wherein the main unit and the power supply unit are decoupled;

[0077] Figure 2 A perspective view of an aerosol generation system according to a first embodiment is shown, wherein the main unit and the power supply unit are coupled.

[0078] Figure 3 A perspective view of the main unit is shown;

[0079] Figure 4 It shows along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the main device taken from plane BB in the diagram;

[0080] Figure 5 It shows along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system taken from plane AA;

[0081] Figure 6 A block diagram illustrating the first operating mode of the aerosol generation system is shown;

[0082] Figure 7 A block diagram illustrating a second operating mode of the aerosol generation system is shown;

[0083] Figure 8A perspective view of the modified main device and charging adapter according to the first embodiment is shown;

[0084] Figure 9 A perspective view of an aerosol generation system according to a second embodiment is shown, wherein the main unit and the power supply unit are decoupled;

[0085] Figure 10 It shows along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the power supply unit taken from the plane CC.

[0086] Throughout the specification, the same features are indicated by the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0087] Figure 1 An aerosol generation system 1 in a decoupled state is shown. Figure 2 An aerosol generation system 1 in a coupled state is shown. The aerosol generation system 1 includes a main unit 2 and a power supply unit 18. Figure 1 Also shown is a consumable article 100. As a non-limiting example, the consumable article 100 has an aerosol-forming matrix having an aerosol-forming material that aerosolizes upon heating. The aerosol-forming matrix may be a tobacco article, or may include tobacco.

[0088] The main device 2 is an aerosol generating device and is capable of performing a heating operation to release aerosol from the consumable product 100. Figure 3 A perspective view of the main device 2 is shown, and Figure 4 It shows the result of Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the main device 2 generated by the intersection of the horizontal plane BB in the middle.

[0089] The main unit 2 includes an elongated housing 3 extending longitudinally along a vertical axis. The housing 3 defines a top wall 6, a bottom wall 7, and side walls 8. The side walls 8 are formed by concave and convex sections 4 defining a curved profile 5. The curved profile 5 begins with a gradually widening constricting edge 51 and curves towards a rounded edge 52. Thus, the side walls 8 define a concave side 81 and a convex side 82. The resulting characteristic curved geometry of the housing 3 provides an ergonomic grip for the user to hold the main unit 2.

[0090] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the housing 3 houses a tubular heating cavity 15. Preferably, the heating cavity 15 is adapted to removably receive the consumable article 100. As a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the heating unit 14, an induction coil may be configured concentrically with the heating cavity 15 to generate an electromagnetic field that inductively couples with and heats an internal sensor within the consumable article 100. The heating cavity 15 and the induction coil configure the heating unit 14. The heating unit 14 may also include other components for efficient heating operation of the consumable article 100, such as a control circuitry and a temperature sensor. Furthermore, different heater types may be part of the main device 2 as the heating unit 14, such as resistance heating, dielectric heating, suction-based heating, radiative heating, or combinations thereof. Additionally, the heating cavity 15 may include a thermal shielding structure 16 to provide thermal confinement and prevent electromagnetic interference to surrounding electronic components.

[0091] Additionally, housing 3 houses control unit 13 and battery assembly 30. Battery assembly 30 includes multiple power sources 10, 11, and 12. For example, battery assembly 30 includes a thin battery 10, a removable battery 11, and a supercapacitor 12. Control unit 13 is electrically connected to the thin battery 10, the removable battery 11, and the supercapacitor 12.

[0092] Electronic components housed within housing 3 can be independently mounted within housing 3 using conventional mounting devices, while being electrically interconnected with appropriate wiring. Alternatively, the electronic components can be compactly integrated with a supporting PCB printed circuit board to form a PCB assembly. The PCB assembly can be arranged within housing 3 to efficiently utilize its available internal space.

[0093] Alternatively, rigid or flexible PCBs can be used to achieve efficient electrical integration across PCB assemblies.

[0094] like Figure 4 As shown, the control unit 13, battery assembly 30, and heating chamber 15 are arranged in an asymmetrical layout within the housing 3. Specifically, the control unit 13 is positioned toward the constricted edge 51 of the housing 3, the thin battery 10 extends beside the convex side 82 of the housing 3, the removable battery 11 is positioned within the middle section of the housing 3, and the supercapacitor 12 is positioned toward the rounded edge 52.

[0095] Preferably, the supercapacitor 12 is located near the heating chamber 15 to establish an efficient electrical connection with the heating unit 14 (e.g., but not limited to the induction coil). This addresses the requirement for repeated heating operations over short periods. Unlike common battery cells that may not meet high power demands or may experience excessive strain leading to shortened lifespan, the implementation of the supercapacitor 12 enables the delivery of instantaneous power loads to the heating unit 14. In particular, during the preheating phase when the induction coil of the heating unit 14 requires a power surge, the supercapacitor 12 can be rapidly charged and discharged, providing an instantaneous supply of the required current. Therefore, the supercapacitor 12 not only ensures efficient heating but also significantly reduces heating time, enhancing the overall performance of aerosol generation by ensuring that the consumable article 100 can reach the desired temperature quickly and efficiently. The supercapacitor 12 used in this configuration can be selected from a variety of suitable types, including electrochemical double-layer capacitors, pseudocapacitors, or hybrid capacitors, depending on the specific design considerations and desired performance characteristics of the heating unit. Preferably, optimal power delivery and efficiency are achieved by positioning the supercapacitor 12 adjacent to or directly below the heating chamber 15.

[0096] exist Figure 4 In the first embodiment depicted, the thin battery 10 is a rechargeable, curved battery. The thin battery 10 is shaped to conform to the curved profile of the convex side 82. Suitable examples of thin batteries for this purpose are also referred to as “flexible batteries” or “planar batteries.” This type of battery can efficiently occupy available space within a device while providing a stable and consistent power supply. This can be ideal for maintaining power demands over extended periods. The thin battery 10 has a large surface area, which ensures long-term operation of the main device 2 without frequent recharging or replacement.

[0097] Another advantageous effect of including the thin battery 10 is that, after the supercapacitor 12 meets the initial peak of power demand, energy consumption can be switched to the thin rechargeable battery 10 for regular operation, thereby optimizing power usage. Compared to the supercapacitor 12, the thin rechargeable battery 10 has a higher energy storage capacity, making it more suitable for meeting continuous power demand after an initial power surge, such as during the preheating phase. Typically, thin rechargeable batteries exhibit a lower voltage than supercapacitors, but they are suitable for delivering this voltage more consistently over longer periods. Therefore, the thin rechargeable battery 10 is able to provide a stable and consistent power supply, which is ideal for maintaining heating unit operation during extended consumption periods.

[0098] Furthermore, the rechargeable battery 10 can serve as the main power source for the general operation of the main device 2, including the operation of any additional or complementary electronics. Examples of additional or complementary electronics include user interfaces such as buttons or LED indicators. Examples of thin batteries include single-cell or multi-cell batteries, such as lithium polymer (Li-Po) batteries, solid-state batteries, printed batteries, or thin-film batteries.

[0099] Preferably, the housing 3 defines a hollow column along its longitudinal axis to define a battery compartment 26. The battery compartment 26 can receive a removable battery 11. The battery compartment 26 may include a removable cover to provide access to the removable battery 11 for a user. In this case, the battery compartment 26 may include electrical terminals to electrically couple the removable battery 11 to the control unit 13. Suitable removable batteries include generally available types, often referred to as “consumer batteries” or “commercial batteries.” These types include both primary batteries (i.e., the primary type) and rechargeable batteries (i.e., the secondary type). Examples of such batteries include single-cell or multi-cell alkaline batteries, lithium batteries, zinc-carbon batteries, silver oxide batteries, zinc-air batteries, and mercury batteries.

[0100] The inclusion of a removable battery 11, such as a commercially available AA battery, enhances versatility. The inclusion of a removable battery 11 provides an alternative power option, allowing the user to easily replace it when needed. This provides convenience and flexibility, especially in situations where recharging may be limited or other power sources are nearby. By utilizing common consumer or commercial batteries, the device becomes compatible with a wide range of available power sources, enabling users to extend their usage without relying on specific charging infrastructure or time-consuming recharging processes. Furthermore, the inclusion of a removable battery 11 ensures that the device can quickly resume operation by replacing a depleted battery with a fully charged one, thereby reducing downtime and enhancing the user experience.

[0101] The control unit 13 may include a load management circuit designed to control the power distribution from the battery assembly 30, specifically from the thin battery 10, the removable battery 11, and the supercapacitor 12. The load management circuit may include a switching device that operates according to a specific operating mode of the main device 2. For example, the switching device may enable the supercapacitor 12, the thin battery 10, or the removable battery 11 to supply power to the heating unit according to parameters related to a specific heating profile during heating operation. Depending on the state of charge for each battery, the switching device may enable the rechargeable battery 10, the removable battery 11, or a combination thereof to become the main power source for the main device 2. The switching device may selectively enable the thin battery 10 and the removable battery 11 to become the main power source for supplying a charging load to the supercapacitor 12 or for electrically maintaining the general operation of the main device 2. Furthermore, the switching device may control the charging operation of the rechargeable battery. In this case, to ensure safe charging operation and prevent dangerous charging of the non-rechargeable battery, the switching device may include a battery detection circuit that allows the charging procedure only after a suitable rechargeable battery is detected in the battery compartment 26.

[0102] Generally, a load management circuit controlling multiple (types of) batteries may include subsystem electronics to manage charging, discharging, and switching operations. For example, the load management circuit may include monitoring circuitry that measures battery voltage, current, and state of charge. The load management circuit can then make decisions based on predefined algorithms to determine which batteries should be charged, discharged, or connected to a load. The load management circuit may also include relays or solid-state devices to control the current flow between the batteries and the load (e.g., a heating unit). These components ensure proper battery management, balancing, and efficient utilization of available energy. Additionally, safety features (e.g., overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, and short-circuit protection) may be included to protect the batteries and the entire system. The design and implementation of the load management circuit can vary depending on factors such as the number and capacity of the batteries, the desired switching speed, or the power requirements of specific components within the main unit 2.

[0103] As is apparent from the above, the main device 2 is configured to operate independently of the power supply unit 18 by drawing current from its own power sources 10, 11, and 12, i.e., from the battery assembly 30. Additionally, the main device 2 is configured to be coupled to the power supply unit 18 to obtain supplemental power. The power supply unit 18 is configured to supplement the power requirements of the main device 2. This supplemental power can be used to maintain operational capability, recharge the battery assembly 30, or increase the battery capacity of the battery assembly 30.

[0104] in this regard, Figure 6 and Figure 7The first and second operating modes of the aerosol generation system 1 are schematically illustrated. Solid lines between components indicate electrical connections, and open lines indicate electrical disconnections. Dashed lines indicate interconnections between the control unit 13, heating unit 14, battery assembly 30, and power supply unit 18 for control purposes. Figure 6 As schematically shown, when the power supply unit 18 is electrically disconnected from the main device 2, the control unit 13 can control the aerosol generation system 1 to operate in a first operating mode. In this first operating mode, the battery assembly 30 supplies power to the power-consuming devices of the main device 2 (e.g., to the heating unit 14, i.e., the induction coil or other heating device).

[0105] like Figure 7 As schematically shown, when the power supply unit 18 is electrically connected to the main device 2, the control unit 13 can control the aerosol generation system 1 to operate in a second operating mode. In this second operating mode, the power supply unit 18 directly supplies power to the power-consuming devices of the main device 2 (e.g., to the heating unit 14, i.e., the induction coil or other heating device). Specifically, the power supply unit 18 directly supplies power to the power-consuming devices of the main device 2 without charging the battery assembly 30. Furthermore, in the second operating mode, the control unit 13 can disconnect the battery assembly 30 from the operational interconnection with the power-consuming device (i.e., the heating unit 14).

[0106] like Figure 1 , 2 As depicted in Figure 5, the main unit 2 and the power supply unit 18 can be shaped oppositely to provide an ergonomic and relatively smooth transition between their respective surfaces when joined together. In this case, curved geometry can provide a matching profile that allows the main unit 2 to be seamlessly integrated with the oppositely shaped power supply unit 18 to form a tubular body, such as... Figure 2 As shown in the image.

[0107] The power supply unit 18 can be magnetically attached to the main device 2. For example, a first set of embedded magnets 9 can be positioned on the mating side of the main device 2. A corresponding second set of magnets 24 can be positioned on the corresponding mating side of the power supply unit 18. This allows for a secure magnetic connection with the main device 2.

[0108] Alternatively, the power supply unit 18 and the main device 2 can be mechanically and reversibly coupled by other means. Examples include snap-fit ​​structures, button snap-fit ​​structures, press-fit structures, or hook-and-loop fasteners.

[0109] like Figure 5As shown, the power supply unit 18 includes multiple power sources 19, 20, and 21. Specifically, the power supply unit 18 includes a thin power source 19, a first battery 20, and a second battery 21. The first battery 20 and the second battery 21 can be removable batteries. In particular, similar to the battery compartment 26 described above with respect to the main device 2, the power supply unit 18 may include at least one battery compartment for receiving removable batteries. The thin power source 19 can be a supercapacitor. Alternatively or additionally, the thin power source 19 can be a rechargeable battery. The first battery 20 and the second battery 21 can be both non-removable and rechargeable.

[0110] Preferably, one of the power sources 19, 20, and 21 in the power supply unit 18 is a supercapacitor. Any of the remaining power sources 19, 20, and 21 in the power supply unit 18 can be a removable battery, a rechargeable battery, a waste battery, or a combination thereof. Specifically, the power supply unit 18 includes a supercapacitor as one of the multiple power sources 19, 20, and 21. Furthermore, the number of power sources in the power supply unit 18 is not limited to three. For example, the number of power sources in the power supply unit 18 can be two, four, five, etc. As a preferred but non-limiting example, the power supply unit 18 includes two different power sources. One of the two power sources is a supercapacitor, and the other is a removable battery, a rechargeable battery, a waste battery, or a combination thereof.

[0111] The advantages of the multi-battery type configuration of the main device 2 described above also apply to the power supply unit 18.

[0112] Once attached, the power supply unit 18 can be configured to perform wireless power transmission to the main device 2. Specifically, the power supply unit 18 may include a power transmission circuit 22. The power transmission circuit 22 may be connected to a transmitter 23. The transmitter 23 may be a transmitting coil antenna and may be arranged next to the mating side of the power supply unit 18. The transmitter 23 is then capable of inductive coupling with a receiver 17 provided to the main device 2. The receiver 17 may be a receiving coil antenna and may be arranged next to the mating side of the main device 2. The transmitter 23 is responsible for generating an alternating electromagnetic field to achieve charge transfer from the power supply unit 18 to the main device 2.

[0113] Specifically, the power transmission circuit 22 can be enabled to perform wireless power transmission from the power supply unit 18 to the main device 2 in response to a power demand signaled from the main device 2.

[0114] For example, the control unit 13 of the main device 2 can be configured to verify the depletion level of the battery assembly 30. If the depletion level falls below a predefined threshold, the control unit 13 of the main device 2 can switch the aerosol generation system 1 to a second operating mode by signaling the power transmission circuit 22 to initiate power transmission. In this sense, wireless power transmission allows the power supply unit 18 to become the main power source for the main device 2, preventing the main device 2 from depleting its own battery. For example, the load management system within the main device 2 may include methods for determining and implementing optimal power usage to increase autonomy.

[0115] Generally, a wireless power transmission system may include subsystems for rectifying, regulating, and storing the transmitted charge. For example, receiver 17 may be connected to a rectifier circuit to convert the alternating current received from transmitter 23 into direct current (DC). This rectified DC power can then be regulated by a voltage regulation circuit system to ensure a stable and consistent voltage level.

[0116] In addition to the wireless power transmission described above, power can also be transmitted between the power supply unit 18 and the host device 2 via other known power supply interfaces. Examples include standardized charging ports, such as USB charging ports, and in particular USB-C charging ports.

[0117] Figure 8 A perspective view of the modified main device 2 and charging adapter 25 according to the first embodiment is shown. Specifically, the aerosol generation system 1 may additionally include the charging adapter 25. The charging adapter 25 may include a base 27 configured to connect the main device 2 and the power unit 18 and to wirelessly charge both the main device and the power unit. The charging adapter 25 also includes a power cord 28 that can be connected to a power outlet to receive an external power supply. By including the charging adapter 25, the aerosol generation system 1 allows the main device 2 and the power unit 18 to be connected to a power outlet, enabling both to receive electrical energy to recharge their internal rechargeable batteries.

[0118] Alternatively, the charging adapter 25 can be configured to connect to and wirelessly charge only one of the main device 2 and the power unit 18. Furthermore, the charging adapter 25 does not necessarily have to be able to wirelessly connect to and charge the main device 2 and / or the power unit 18. Alternatively, the charging adapter 25 may be adapted to connect to and charge the main device 2 and / or the power unit 18 via other charging ports, such as a USB charging port.

[0119] Figure 9 A perspective view of an aerosol generation system 1 according to a second embodiment is shown, wherein the main unit 2 and the power supply unit 18 are decoupled. Figure 10 It shows that by along Figure 9The image shows a cross-sectional view of the power supply unit 18 obtained by cutting it open with plane CC. Except for the differences described below, the same explanations provided with respect to the first embodiment described above also apply to the second embodiment.

[0120] According to the second embodiment, the main device 2 and the power supply unit 18 can be configured to exhibit a U-shaped cross-section. For example... Figure 10 As shown, similar to the first embodiment, the power supply unit 18 includes multiple power sources, namely a thin power source 19, a first battery 20, and a second battery 21. Due to the external shape of the power supply unit 18, the thin power source 19 is arranged to extend along the U-shaped wall of the power supply unit 18. Furthermore, the first battery 20, the second battery 21, and the power transmission circuit 22 are arranged along the longitudinal axis of the power supply unit 18. Additionally, the first battery 20, the second battery 21, and the power transmission circuit 22 are at least partially surrounded by the thin power source 19. An additional set of magnetic retainers 24 can be provided to achieve secure attachment of the power supply unit 18 to the main device 2. For this purpose, a corresponding set of magnets 9 can be embedded in the main device 2.

Claims

1. An aerosol generation system, comprising a main unit, a control unit, and a power supply unit. The power supply unit is configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from the main device. The main device includes a battery pack and a power consumption device. The control unit is configured to control the aerosol generation system to operate in a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first operating mode, the battery assembly supplies power to the power-consuming device when the power unit is electrically disconnected from the main device. In the second operating mode, the power unit supplies power to the power-consuming device when it is electrically connected to the main device. The power supply unit and / or the battery assembly includes multiple power sources, and the control unit is configured to supply power to the power-consuming device by selecting one of the multiple power sources.

2. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, wherein in the second operating mode, the power supply unit supplies power to the power consumption device without charging the battery assembly of the main device.

3. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the second operating mode, the control unit disconnects the battery assembly from the operational interconnection with the power consumption device.

4. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is configured to verify the depletion level of the battery assembly, and, when the depletion level is below a predefined threshold and the power supply unit is electrically connected to the main device, the control unit is configured to control the aerosol generation system to operate in a second operating mode, in which the power supply unit supplies power to the power-consuming device without charging the battery assembly of the main device, and / or, in the second operating mode, the control unit disconnects the battery assembly from the operational interconnection with the power-consuming device.

5. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is configured to verify whether the aerosol generation system is operating in the first operating mode, and to enable the second operating mode if the first operating mode is not operating correctly.

6. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main device includes a first power supply interface and a second power supply interface, wherein the first power supply interface is configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from a charging device preferably used for charging the battery assembly, and wherein the power supply unit is configured to be electrically connected to and electrically disconnected from the main device via the second power supply interface.

7. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power unit includes a battery compartment for holding commercially available battery cells, preferably type A, type AA, type AAA, type C, type D, type PP3, type 18650, type CR2032 or combinations thereof.

8. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power unit is configured to enable wireless power transmission, preferably via inductive coupling to the main device, and particularly preferably for charging the battery assembly.

9. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power supply unit comprises at least one power supply, preferably multiple power supplies.

10. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery assembly includes at least one power source, preferably multiple power sources.

11. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power unit and / or the battery assembly comprises at least two different types of power sources.

12. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding three claims, wherein at least one power source comprises a thin battery, a removable battery, a supercapacitor, a rechargeable battery, a waste battery, or a combination thereof.

13. A power supply method for an aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising: The aerosol generation system is operated in the first operating mode, in which the battery assembly supplies power to the power-consuming device when the power unit is electrically disconnected from the main device. The aerosol generation system is operated in the second operating mode, in which the power supply unit supplies power to the power consumption device when the power supply unit is electrically connected to the main device.

14. The use of the aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 12 for supplying power to the power-consuming device.

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