Control device for an aerosol provision device

Abstract

A control device (110) for use with an aerosol provision device (102) comprising an energy storage device (106), wherein the control device (110) is configured to determine whether the energy storage device (106) has reached the end of its life. When it is determined that the energy storage device (106) has reached the end of its life, charging of the energy storage device (106) is permitted and charging parameters of the energy storage device (106) are set such that charging of the energy storage device (106) is altered compared to charging of the energy storage device (106) prior to having reached the end of its life; and / or discharging of the energy storage device (106) is permitted and discharging parameters of the energy storage device (106) are set such that discharging of the energy storage device (106) is altered compared to discharging of the energy storage device (106) prior to having reached the end of its life.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a control device for an aerosol supply apparatus. The invention also relates to an aerosol supply apparatus including such a control device, an aerosol supply system including an aerosol supply apparatus and an article including aerosol generating materials, and a method for controlling the operation of an energy storage device in the aerosol supply apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Smoking products (such as cigarettes, cigars, etc.) produce tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Efforts have been made to provide alternatives to these products by producing products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are so-called "heated but not burned" products or tobacco heating devices or products that release compounds by heating a material that does not burn. This material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, a control arrangement is provided for use with an aerosol supply device including an energy storage device. The control arrangement is configured to determine whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan; and when it is determined that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan: allow charging of the energy storage device and set charging parameters for the energy storage device such that charging of the energy storage device is modified (e.g., restricted) compared to charging the energy storage device before it has reached the end of its lifespan; and / or allow discharging of the energy storage device and set discharging parameters for the energy storage device such that discharging of the energy storage device is modified (e.g., restricted) compared to discharging the energy storage device before it has reached the end of its lifespan.

[0004] The end of the lifespan of an energy storage device may occur when its condition deteriorates to the point where further use becomes unsafe or restricted.

[0005] Energy storage devices may include one or more batteries.

[0006] Charging parameters may include at least one of the following: charging voltage and charging current for a charging cycle of the energy storage device. The charging voltage may be the maximum charging voltage applied during a charging cycle. The control device may be configured to set the charging parameters by reducing the charging voltage compared to a previous charging voltage applied during a charging cycle that occurred before the energy storage device reached the end of its lifespan. This can reduce the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage device. The charging current may be the maximum charging current applied during a charging cycle. The control device may be configured to set the charging parameters by reducing the charging current compared to a previous charging current applied during a previous charging cycle that occurred before the energy storage device reached the end of its lifespan. This can reduce the charging rate during a charging cycle.

[0007] Discharge parameters may include the maximum number of discharges of the energy storage device during a discharge cycle. Discharge parameters may not be set before the end of the device's lifespan. The maximum number of discharges may not exceed 5 times, for example, not more than 4 times, or even more than 3 times. Discharging the energy storage device may include providing sufficient power for the aerosol supply device to supply a usage cycle. A usage cycle may include multiple inhalations from the aerosol supply device (e.g., at least 2 and at most 10 inhalations). A usage cycle may correspond to a period of time during which the energy storage device can provide power for consumption by the aerosol supply device for 200 to 350 seconds, for example, 220 to 330 seconds, 240 to 310 seconds, or 260 to 290 seconds.

[0008] Discharge parameters can include the discharge rate of the energy storage device. The discharge rate can be the maximum discharge rate.

[0009] Setting discharge parameters may include reducing the discharge rate compared to the discharge rate set during discharge cycles that have occurred before the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan. The discharge rate determines the rate at which the heating element's temperature rises / heats. Setting discharge parameters may include limiting the discharge current / voltage below a predetermined discharge current / voltage threshold.

[0010] Determining the end of the lifespan of an energy storage device may include measuring the characteristics of the energy storage device. These characteristics may be at least one of the following: expansion rate, amount of expansion, storage capacity, change in storage capacity, health status, time spent charging the energy storage device, number of times the energy storage device has been discharged, and the number of usage cycles for which the energy storage device has supplied power. Control equipment may be configured to determine that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan when these characteristics meet predetermined thresholds (e.g., 10,000 usage cycles, or a 10% expansion, or a 50% reduction in storage capacity).

[0011] The control device may further include sensors configured to measure (i.e., determine) characteristics of the energy storage device. The sensors may be configured to measure the storage capacity of the energy storage device. For example, the sensor may be a capacitance sensor. The sensors may be configured to detect expansion of the energy storage device. The sensors may measure the force exerted by the energy storage device due to expansion, such as a pressure / force sensor.

[0012] The control device may further include a timer configured to measure the amount of time the energy storage device has been charged and / or discharged, and wherein the control device is configured to determine whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its life based on the amount of time the energy storage device has been charged and / or discharged.

[0013] The control device may further include a timer and / or a counter configured to determine the number of usage cycles for which the energy storage device has been powered.

[0014] In another aspect, an aerosol supply device is provided. The aerosol supply device includes: an energy storage device; and a control device according to any of the above embodiments.

[0015] The aerosol supply device can be configured to receive articles including aerosol generating media.

[0016] In another aspect, an aerosol supply system is provided. The aerosol supply system includes: an article comprising an aerosol generating medium; and an aerosol supply device according to any of the above embodiments.

[0017] In another aspect, a method is provided for controlling the operation of an energy storage device in an aerosol supply apparatus. The method includes determining whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan; and when it is determined that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan, allowing charging of the energy storage device and setting charging parameters for the energy storage device such that charging of the energy storage device is modified (e.g., limited) compared to charging of the energy storage device before it reached the end of its lifespan; and / or allowing discharging of the energy storage device and setting discharging parameters for the energy storage device such that discharging of the energy storage device is modified (e.g., limited) compared to discharging of the energy storage device before it reached the end of its lifespan.

[0018] Charging parameters can be the charging voltage applied during a charging cycle. Additionally or alternatively, charging parameters can be the charging current applied during a charging cycle. The charging voltage can be less than the previous charging voltage applied during a previous charging cycle that occurred before the energy storage device reached the end of its life. The charging current can be less than the charging current applied during a previous charging cycle that occurred before the energy storage device reached the end of its life. Discharging parameters can include the maximum number of times the energy storage device discharges during a discharge cycle. Discharging parameters can include the discharge rate of the energy storage device. Setting discharge parameters can include limiting the discharge current / voltage below a predetermined discharge current / voltage threshold.

[0019] Any feature of the control device described above can be properly implemented by any of the methods described above.

[0020] In another aspect, an aerosol supply device is provided. The aerosol supply device includes an energy storage device, a control device configured to determine whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan, and a display communicatively connected to the control device, the display being configured to display information indicating that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan.

[0021] A display may include a screen (e.g., an LCD screen or an LED screen). The information may be in the form of text or one or more symbols.

[0022] In another aspect, a method for operating an aerosol supply device is provided. The method includes determining, via a control device, whether an energy storage unit of the aerosol supply device has reached the end of its lifespan; and displaying, via a display communicatively connected to the control device, information indicating that the energy storage unit has reached the end of its lifespan.

[0023] Any feature of the aerosol supply device including the aforementioned display can also be appropriately implemented using the methods described above. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, in which: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown (not drawn to scale). Figure 2 A schematic diagram (not drawn to scale) of another aerosol supply system according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown; and Figure 3 A flowchart is shown of a method for controlling the operation of an energy storage device in an aerosol supply device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0025] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" is a material capable of generating aerosols, for example, when heated, irradiated, or electrified in any other way. Aerosol-generating materials may be in solid, liquid, or gel form, and may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. Aerosol-generating materials may include any plant-based material, such as tobacco-containing materials, and may include, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating materials may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. Aerosol-generating materials may be in solid, liquid, gel, wax, or other forms, for example. Aerosol-generating materials may also be combinations or blends of materials. Aerosol-generating materials may also be referred to as "smokable materials."

[0026] Aerosol-generating materials may include binders and aerosol-forming agents. Optionally, activators and / or fillers may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0027] Aerosol-generating materials may include or may be "amorphous solids". Amorphous solids may be "monolithic solids". In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid (e.g., liquid) within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may, for example, include from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of amorphous solids.

[0028] Aerosol-generating materials may include aerosol-generating membranes. Aerosol-generating membranes may include or be sheets, which may optionally be shredded to form shredded sheets. The aerosol-generating sheets or shredded sheets may be substantially tobacco-free.

[0029] According to this disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system (sometimes referred to as an "aerosol supply system") is an aerosol supply system in which the aerosol generating material is non-flammable or non-ignitable in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0030] In some implementations, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0031] In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vapor device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END); however, it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not necessary.

[0032] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heated non-combustible system. One embodiment of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0033] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a mixing system that uses a combination of aerosol-generating materials to generate aerosols, wherein one or more of these aerosol-generating materials can be heated. Each aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the mixing system includes liquid or gel aerosol-generating materials and solid aerosol-generating materials. Solid aerosol-generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0034] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and consumables (sometimes referred to as “produced goods”) for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0035] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with non-flammable aerosol supply devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles in this disclosure.

[0036] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as its non-flammable aerosol supply device, may include a power source (e.g., an energy storage device) and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power source or a heat source. In some embodiments, the heat source includes a carbon matrix, which may be energized to distribute power in the form of heat to the aerosol-generating material or heat-transfer material adjacent to the heat source.

[0037] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0038] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, aerosol generating material storage area, aerosol generating material conveying component, aerosol generator, aerosol generating area, housing, packaging paper, filter, nozzle, and / or aerosol modifier.

[0039] The aerosol generating apparatus may receive articles comprising aerosol generating material for heating. In this context, "article" refers to a component that includes or contains aerosol generating material that is heated to cause the aerosol generating material to volatilize, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into the aerosol generating apparatus before heating it to generate an aerosol, after which the user inhales the aerosol. The article may be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size, configured to be placed within the heating chamber of the apparatus, the chamber being sized to receive the article.

[0040] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply system 100 (which may be in the form of a non-flammable aerosol supply system) including an aerosol supply device 102, the aerosol supply device including a product receiving portion 104 (e.g., in the form of a cavity within the device 102) for receiving an aerosol-generated article 105 in use. The aerosol-generated article 105 may be provided separately from the aerosol supply device 102 and may be removed from the product receiving portion 104. The aerosol supply device 102 may further include an energy storage device 106, a heating arrangement 108, and a control arrangement 110. The heating arrangement 108 may be arranged to heat the aerosol-generated article 105. The heating arrangement 108 may include any suitable means for heating the aerosol-generated article 105. For example, the heating arrangement 108 may include a heating element configured to heat the aerosol-generated article 105. The heating element may include a resistive or inductive heating element. In other embodiments, the heating arrangement may at least partially house the aerosol-generated article 105. In some embodiments, the article receiving portion 104 and / or heating device 108 and / or energy storage device 106 may be omitted.

[0041] Aerosol generating article 105 may include aerosol generating materials / mediums. The aerosol generating materials can generate aerosols when heat is applied. Energy storage device 106 may include one or more batteries or one or more capacitors or any other component capable of storing electrical energy. Heating device 108 can heat the aerosol generating article 105 receiving portion 104 within the article-in-process receiving portion. Heating of the aerosol generating article 105 can cause the generation of an aerosol therefrom that can be inhaled by a user.

[0042] In some embodiments, as depicted, control device 110 may be provided as part of aerosol supply device 102. However, in other embodiments, control device 110 may be provided as a separate entity separate from aerosol supply device 102. Thus, while the components and / or features of control device 110 are described herein with respect to an aerosol supply device, the following similarly applies to separate, individual control devices. For example, the control device described herein can be applied to a retrofit kit configured to adapt an existing aerosol supply device to have at least some of the components and / or features of aerosol supply device 102.

[0043] In some embodiments, control device 110 may include processor 114. Processor 114 may be configured to perform one or more of the functions of control device 110 discussed herein. In other embodiments, control device 110 does not include a processor. In such embodiments, control device 110 may include any suitable means to perform the functions described herein.

[0044] According to the embodiments described herein, control device 110 may be configured to determine whether energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its service life. The end of the service life of energy storage device 106 may occur when the energy storage device deteriorates to a point where further use of the energy storage device becomes unsafe or limited. This deterioration may be the result of repeated use of energy storage device 106 and / or wear and tear experienced by energy storage device 106. Energy storage device 106 may expand, for example, swell, with increasing usage and / or years of use. In this case, the end of the service life of energy storage device 106 may occur when energy storage device 106 swells to a point where further expansion may cause energy storage device 106 to leak or rupture. In this case, further use may cause injury to nearby personnel, such as users, and / or other components of aerosol supply device 102. Another embodiment of the end of life for energy storage device 106 is when the current (i.e., current) maximum (storage) capacity of energy storage device 106 (e.g., current maximum energy storage capacity / maximum amount of energy that energy storage device 106 can store and subsequently deliver for consumption) decreases below a threshold capacity, for example, 80% of the original capacity, i.e., 80% of the capacity of energy storage device 106 at its new state. This reduction in maximum capacity may be due to or may cause breakdown of energy storage device 106 during charging or discharging (e.g., chemical or electrical breakdown). In this case, the risk of short circuits from energy storage device 106 may also increase.

[0045] In some embodiments, the end of life of the energy storage device 106 can be defined as when the ratio of the current (i.e., current) maximum capacity of the energy storage device 106 to its maximum capacity at a new time (i.e., before its capacity is exhausted by use or aging, also referred to as its rated capacity) is lower than a threshold ratio, such as lower than 85%, for example lower than 80%. This ratio can be considered as the health status of the energy storage device 106.

[0046] Determining the end of the lifespan of the energy storage device 106, performed by the control device 110, may include measuring one or more characteristics of the energy storage device 106. The characteristics of the energy storage device 106 may include at least one of the following: expansion (e.g., rate of expansion), amount of expansion (e.g., increase), storage capacity (e.g., current / current maximum storage capacity), change in storage capacity (e.g., change in current / current maximum storage capacity), health status (e.g., the ratio of current / current maximum charging capacity to its capacity / rated capacity at new), time spent charging the energy storage device 106, number of times the energy storage device 106 has been discharged (e.g., the number of times it has discharged at least a certain percentage of its stored power), and the number of sessions of use for which the energy storage device 106 has supplied power. These one or more characteristics of the energy storage device 106 may include total energy storage device operating time (i.e., the total operating time for the energy storage device). Total energy storage device operating time may be the total time since the energy storage device 106 was first supplied for use by the aerosol supply device 102. This can be defined, for example, by the point at which the aerosol supply device 106 exits the shipping mode (e.g., when electricity is first drawn from the energy storage device). This total energy storage device operating time can encompass the total time that the energy storage device 106 supplies power, the time it receives power (i.e., charges), and the time it does not supply / receive power.

[0047] In some implementations, such as Figure 1 As depicted, control device 110 may include sensor 112. Sensor 112 may be configured to measure parameters / characteristics of energy storage device 106. However, in other embodiments, sensor 112 may be omitted entirely.

[0048] Sensor 112 can be configured to detect expansion / inflation of energy storage device 106. For example, sensor 112 can be configured to measure the force exerted by energy storage device 106 due to expansion; for example, sensor 112 may include a pressure and / or force sensor. For example, pressure and / or force sensors can be configured to measure the force between energy storage device 106 and the compartments in which energy storage device 106 resides or is positioned. This is a force / pressure that can indicate the amount of expansion / inflation exhibited by energy storage device 106.

[0049] Additionally or alternatively, control device 110 may be configured to determine the maximum storage capacity of energy storage device 106. This can be achieved by any suitable means. For example, aerosol supply device 102 (e.g., its control device 110) may include a capacity sensor configured to measure the maximum capacity of energy storage device 106. For example, the capacity sensor may be a capacitive sensor configured to measure the capacitance of energy storage device 106. The capacity sensor may also be a voltage or current sensor configured to measure the voltage or current output by energy storage device 106. The capacity sensor may be considered sensor 112 or a part thereof.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, control device 110 may include a timer configured to measure the amount of time that energy storage device 106 has been charged and / or discharged. This amount of time can be determined from the time when energy storage device 106 is new (i.e., when energy storage device 106 has not even been charged / discharged once). The timer may be considered as sensor 112 or part thereof. In other embodiments, the timer may be configured to measure the time that energy storage device has been charged during a single charging cycle, or the time it has been discharged between two charging cycles. A charging cycle can be considered as increasing the energy stored in energy storage device 106 from at least partially (e.g., completely) empty to at least partially (e.g., full) its maximum capacity. For example, a charging cycle can be considered as increasing the energy stored in energy storage device 106 by at least 50%, such as at least 60%, such as at least 70%, such as at least 80%, such as at least 90%, such as at least 100%, of its current storage capacity. A charging cycle may begin when energy is supplied to energy storage device 106 and end when energy supply stops.

[0051] In some embodiments, control device 110 may be configured to count the number of times energy storage device 106 has discharged and / or the number of usage cycles in which energy storage device 106 has powered it. In other words, control device 110 may include a counter configured to count the number of times energy storage device 106 has discharged and / or the number of usage cycles in which energy storage device 106 has powered it. The counter may be considered as sensor 112 or part thereof. Usage cycles may include multiple inhalations from aerosol supply device 102 (e.g., article 105 received therein) (e.g., 2 or more inhalations, or 3 or more inhalations, or 4 or more inhalations, or 5 or more inhalations, or 6 or more inhalations, or 7 or more inhalations, or 8 or more inhalations, or 9 or more inhalations, or 10 or more inhalations, or up to 10 inhalations). In some embodiments, the multiple inhalations include 2 to 10 inhalations, such as 3 to 8 inhalations, such as 4 to 6 inhalations. In some embodiments, the usage period may correspond to the energy storage device 106 being able to provide power for consumption by the aerosol supply device 102 within a time period of 200 to 350 seconds, such as 220 to 330 seconds, such as 240 to 310 seconds, or such as 260 to 290 seconds. In this embodiment, the control device 110 may include both a counter and a timer.

[0052] When one or more of these characteristics meet one or more corresponding predetermined thresholds, the control device 110 can determine that the energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its lifespan. For example, when the number of usage cycles in which the energy storage device has provided power to it exceeds a threshold number of cycles, such as 7,000, 8,000, 9,000, or 10,000 cycles, or when the capacity of the energy storage device 106 drops below a threshold capacity (e.g., a percentage of the charging capacity of the energy storage device 106), such as below 85% of the charging capacity when the energy storage device 106 was new, for example, below 80%, the control device can determine that the energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its lifespan. Other embodiments include determining that the energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its lifespan when the charging capacity of the energy storage device drops below a threshold, such as approximately 2000 mAh (where the original storage capacity is approximately 2500 mAh, for example, 2580 mAh), or when the number of charging cycles is at least 250, such as at least 500, such as at least 600, or when the pressure detected by a pressure sensor exceeds a threshold pressure, such as 20 kPa, or when the force detected by a force sensor exceeds a threshold force, such as 0.7 N. Other embodiments include when the total charging and / or discharging time exceeds 800 hours, such as 1000 hours, and / or when the discharge power of the energy storage device exceeds 1400 Ah, and / or when the operating time of the device exceeds 1.5 years, such as 2 years. As will be understood, the various embodiments set forth above may depend on the specific parameters of the energy storage device 106, such as its size and initial capacity, and the parameters of the aerosol supply device 102, such as the size of the article receiving portion 104 and / or the energy consumed by the heating device 108.

[0053] In some embodiments, the control device 110 may be further configured to allow charging of the energy storage device 106 when it is determined that the energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its lifespan, and to set charging parameters of the energy storage device 106 such that the charging of the energy storage device 106 is changed (e.g., restricted) compared to charging the energy storage device 106 before it has reached the end of its lifespan.

[0054] The charging parameter can be the charging voltage applied to the energy storage device 106 during a charging cycle, such as the maximum charging voltage. The charging voltage can determine the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage device 106. The charging voltage can be limited to a predetermined voltage value. As a result, the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage device 106 can be limited. The charging voltage / maximum charging voltage can be lower than the previous charging voltage / maximum charging voltage, that is, the charging voltage / maximum charging voltage used when the energy storage device 106 is new or during a charging cycle before the energy storage device 106 reaches the end of its lifespan.

[0055] Charging parameters can be the charging current applied to the energy storage device 106 during a charging cycle, such as the maximum charging current. The charging current can determine the charging rate of the energy storage device 106 during this charging cycle. The charging current can be limited to a predetermined current value. As a result, the charging rate can be limited. The charging current / maximum charging current can be less than the previous charging current / maximum charging current, that is, the charging current / maximum charging current used during charging cycles when the energy storage device 106 is new or before the energy storage device 106 reaches the end of its lifespan.

[0056] The following describes specific embodiments of variations in charging voltage and / or charging current. In one embodiment, when energy storage device 106 is new, it can be charged with a (e.g., maximum) charging voltage of 4.40 V, which results in sufficient charging to provide energy for approximately 20 usage cycles. Conversely, when energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its lifespan, the (e.g., maximum) charging voltage can be reduced to 3.84 V, which reduces the number of cycles that energy storage device 106 can power to it to approximately 5. Similarly, when it is new, the (e.g., maximum) charging current applied to energy storage device 102 can be 3008 mA, while when it has reached the end of its lifespan, the (e.g., maximum) charging current applied can be 192 mA. This can increase the charging time to approximately 6 hours.

[0057] Advantageously, limiting charging by reducing the charging voltage and / or charging current can reduce the risks associated with operating the energy storage device 106 after it has reached the end of its lifespan, such as short circuits and / or leaks. Additionally, the reduced maximum charging capacity and / or charging rate of the energy storage device 106 can be detected by the user, as they may notice that the aerosol supply device 102 is only usable for a limited number of inhalations and / or takes significantly longer to charge. This can be used to prompt the user to replace the aerosol supply device 102 and / or the energy storage device 106 contained therein. This can reduce the risk of operating the energy storage device 106 and / or effectively indicate to the user that the energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its lifespan while maintaining the availability of the aerosol supply device 102 (i.e., while continuing to supply energy from the energy storage device 106). This can, for example, contrast with prior art devices, in which further use of the aerosol supply device is prevented once the end of its lifespan has been reached, i.e., the aerosol supply device is "limited".

[0058] In the above embodiments, when the charging parameters are set such that they are changed compared to before the end of the life of the energy storage device 106, the control device 110 can be considered to increase the charging time (for charging cycles) and / or reduce the energy stored by the energy storage device 106, thereby reducing the amount of energy that can be supplied by the energy storage device 106 (e.g., reducing the number of cycles that the energy storage device 106 can supply).

[0059] In addition to or as an alternative to the above embodiments, the control device 110 may be configured to allow the energy storage device 106 to discharge when it is determined that the energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its lifespan, and to set the discharge parameters of the energy storage device 106 such that the discharge of the energy storage device 106 is changed (e.g., restricted) compared to the discharge of the energy storage device 106 before it has reached the end of its lifespan.

[0060] In this context, the discharge of energy storage device 106 can be considered as the release of energy stored in energy storage device 106 sufficient to allow at least one instance of generating aerosol, for example, by energizing heating device 108 or actuating a pump / valve. In some embodiments, the discharge of energy storage device 106 may include sufficient power to provide a usage cycle by the aerosol supply device. A usage cycle may include multiple inhalations from the aerosol supply device (e.g., 2 or more inhalations, or 3 or more inhalations, or 4 or more inhalations, or 5 or more inhalations, or 6 or more inhalations, or 7 or more inhalations, or 8 or more inhalations, or 9 or more inhalations, or 10 or more inhalations, or up to 10 inhalations). In some embodiments, the multiple inhalations include 2 to 10 inhalations, such as 3 to 8 inhalations, such as 4 to 6 inhalations. In some implementations, the usage period may correspond to the energy storage device 106 being able to provide power for consumption by the aerosol supply device 102 for a period of 200 to 350 seconds, such as 220 to 330 seconds, such as 240 to 310 seconds, such as 260 to 290 seconds.

[0061] In some embodiments, the discharge parameter may be the maximum number of discharges of the energy storage device during a discharge cycle. A discharge cycle may be considered as releasing the energy stored in the energy storage device 106 from at least partially (e.g., full) its maximum capacity to at least partially (completely) empty. For example, a discharge cycle may be considered as releasing the energy stored in the energy storage device 106 from 100% to 0%, or from 90% to 10%, or from 80% to 20%, or from 70% to 30%, or from 60% to 40%. In some embodiments, a discharge cycle may be considered as releasing the storage capacity of the energy storage device 106 or at least 50%, such as at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100% of the energy stored in the energy storage device 106.

[0062] The maximum number of discharges can be less than the previous number of discharges. For example, the maximum number of discharges when the energy storage device is new or before reaching the end of its lifespan may not be set in this embodiment (i.e., before its end of life). In some embodiments, the maximum number of discharges may be set to no more than 5 times, for example, no more than 4 times, or no more than 3 times, or no more than 2 times, or no more than 1 time. Discharging can provide sufficient power for the usage cycle.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively, discharge parameters may include the discharge rate of energy storage device 106. Setting discharge parameters in this way may include setting / limiting the discharge parameters to a reduced discharge rate. The reduced discharge rate may be a smaller value compared to a value set during a discharge cycle that has occurred before energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its life. The discharge rate may be a maximum discharge rate. In some embodiments, the discharge rate may determine the rate at which the temperature of heating device 108 rises / heats. Thus, a reduced discharge rate may result in a slower temperature rise / heating of heating device 108 compared to the rate at which the temperature of heating device 108 rises / heats when energy storage device 106 is new or before it reaches the end of its life. In some embodiments, setting / limiting discharge parameters includes limiting the discharge current / voltage to below a predetermined discharge current / voltage threshold. The threshold may be any suitable value, depending on the characteristics of energy storage device 106. As an example, if the voltage of energy storage device is greater than or equal to 3.66 V, energy storage device 106 may be able to supply power for further intake cycles, and the current supply may be up to 6 A. Conversely, if the voltage of the energy storage device 106 is greater than or equal to 2.9 V but less than 3.66 V, the device 102 can be configured to prevent power supply for a new usage cycle, but still allow the user to power the aerosol supply device 102, for example, to supply a reduced current of up to 120 mA (i.e., a predetermined discharge current threshold) to the haptic motor or any other suitable electrical component. The voltage supplied by the energy storage device 106 can be limited in a similar manner.

[0064] In the above embodiments, by setting the discharge parameters such that they are changed compared to before the end of its lifespan, the control device 110 can be considered as limiting the amount of energy (regardless of how much energy is stored therein) that the energy storage device can deliver before it needs to be recharged, for example, reducing the number of cycles that a user can obtain before needing to recharge the device. Additionally or alternatively, the control device 110 can be considered as limiting the discharge rate of the energy storage device 106 to a point that increases the time spent generating aerosols and / or decreases the rate of aerosol generation compared to before the aerosol supply device has reached the end of its lifespan.

[0065] Advantageously, the aforementioned control / limitation of discharge can reduce the risk of injury to nearby personnel, for example, due to short circuits and / or leaks, while maintaining the availability of the aerosol supply device. Similar to the adaptation of the charging parameters described above, setting the discharge parameters in this manner can be used to provide the user with an indication that the energy storage device 106 has reached the end of its lifespan. Specifically, the reduced functionality of the aerosol supply device 102, i.e., the reduced number of potentially available cycles and / or the increased time spent generating aerosols, can be detected by prompting the user to replace the aerosol supply device 102 and / or the energy storage device 106.

[0066] Figure 2 A schematic diagram (not drawn to scale) of an aerosol supply system 200 including an aerosol supply device 202 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Similar to the embodiment described above, the aerosol supply device 202 includes a product receiving portion 204 (e.g., in the form of a cavity) for receiving an aerosol-generated product 205. The aerosol supply device 202 further includes an energy storage device 206, a heating device 208, and a control device 210. The components of the aerosol supply device 202 may be similar to those described above. Figure 1 The components described are the same. This avoids redundant descriptions of these components.

[0067] In some implementations, such as Figure 2 As depicted, the aerosol supply device 202 may further include a display 214. The display 214 may be communicatively connected to the control device 210. The display 214 may be configured to display information indicating that the energy storage device 206 has reached the end of its lifespan. The control device 210 may determine that the energy storage device 202 has reached the end of its lifespan in the same manner as the control device 110 described above. Once the control device 210 has determined that the energy storage device 202 has reached the end of its lifespan, it may cause the display 214 to output information indicating that the energy storage device 206 has reached the end of its lifespan. The display 214 may include any suitable display, such as an LCD display or an LED display. The information indicating that the energy storage device 206 has reached the end of its lifespan may be in the form of text or one or more symbols. For example, in response to determining that the energy storage device 206 has reached the end of its lifespan, the display 214 may display text such as "Battery lifespan reached" or "Please replace the battery." In other embodiments, in response to determining that the energy storage device 206 has reached the end of its lifespan, the display 214 may display code to direct the user to a location where more detailed information can be found, such as a website. This can allow a large amount of information to be provided in a small and compact manner.

[0068] Typically, end-of-life indications can be provided by LED lights, which can also be used to provide a variety of other indications. Thus, the inventors found that such prior indications can make it difficult for users to determine when an energy storage device has reached the end of its life. This is because the user would have to decipher or otherwise interpret the LED light. This can be a daunting task, as it may involve reference manuals. Advantageously, a display included in some embodiments allows for a clear and easy understanding of the indication of when the energy storage device 202 has reached the end of its life.

[0069] Display 214 can be used to display other suitable information. For example, display 214 can display one or more of the following: the operating mode of aerosol supply device 202, the charging status of energy storage device 206, the type of aerosol-generated article 205 received by article receiving section 204, and / or the number of remaining cycles to which energy storage device 206 can provide power, and / or the progress of individual cycles, such as the remaining time of a preheating cycle or the remaining time of an actual cycle.

[0070] Figure 3 A flowchart of a method 300 for controlling the operation of an energy storage device in an aerosol supply device is shown. This method can be applied to any of the aforementioned control devices. Method 300 includes determining whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan (302).

[0071] Step 302 may include measuring parameters of the energy storage device using a sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor may be configured to detect expansion / inflation of the energy storage device, for example, via a pressure / force sensor as described above. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor may be configured to measure the capacity of the energy storage device, for example, via a capacitance sensor as described above. Additionally or alternatively, a timer may be configured to measure the amount of time the energy storage device has been charged and / or discharged. Additionally or alternatively, the control device 110 may be further configured to count the number of times the energy storage device 106 has been discharged and / or the number of usage cycles for which the energy storage device 106 has supplied power.

[0072] Furthermore, step 302 may further include comparing the measured parameters with predetermined thresholds. Determining whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its life (302) may also include determining that the energy storage device has reached the end of its life when the measured parameters drop below or above or meet predetermined thresholds. For example, the energy storage device may reach the end of its life when it expands / increases by more than 10% of its original volume, or when its capacity drops below 80% of its original capacity, or when the charging and / or discharging time exceeds 1000 hours, or when the energy storage device has discharged more than 20,000 times, or when the total power discharged by the energy storage device 106 exceeds 1400 Ah, or when the number of power-providing cycles of the energy storage device exceeds 5000, such as 10,000 cycles, or when the operating time of the energy storage device 106 exceeds 2 years.

[0073] In some embodiments, method 300 further includes allowing charging of the energy storage device (304) when it is determined that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan. This step 304 may further include setting charging parameters for the energy storage device such that charging of the energy storage device is modified (e.g., limited) compared to charging the energy storage device before it has reached the end of its lifespan. The charging parameters can be any of the charging parameters described above, such as maximum charging current, maximum charging voltage, and the maximum amount of energy stored in the energy storage device. The charging parameters can be selected to be less than their corresponding values ​​before the energy storage device reaches the end of its lifespan.

[0074] In addition to or as an alternative to step 304 described above, when it is determined that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan, the method may include step 306, which includes allowing the energy storage device to discharge. Step 306 may further include setting discharge parameters for the energy storage device such that the discharge of the energy storage device is altered (e.g., limited) compared to the discharge of the energy storage device prior to reaching the end of its lifespan. The discharge parameters may be any of the discharge parameters described above, such as discharge rate, maximum discharge current / voltage, and the number of discharges per discharge cycle (e.g., sufficient discharges to provide power for a cycle).

[0075] In addition to, or as an alternative to, steps 304 and 306 described above, method 300 may further include displaying information (308) indicating that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan via a display. The display is communicatively connected to a control device.

[0076] The steps described above are merely illustrative, and the order in which they are described is not essential. In practice, any of the above steps may be performed before, after, or simultaneously with any other step. Furthermore, any step may be omitted entirely. Any features of the aerosol supply apparatus and system described in the above embodiments can be implemented in the methods described above as well.

[0077] The various embodiments described herein are presented only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of implementations and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, implementations, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on the equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, comprise, or substantially comprise suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc., rather than those specifically described herein. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. A control device for use with an aerosol supply device including an energy storage device, wherein, The control device is configured as follows: Determine whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan; and When it is determined that the energy storage device has reached the end of its service life: The energy storage device is allowed to be charged, and the charging parameters of the energy storage device are set such that the charging of the energy storage device is changed compared to the charging of the energy storage device before it has reached the end of its lifespan. and / or The energy storage device is allowed to discharge, and the discharge parameters of the energy storage device are set such that the discharge of the energy storage device is changed compared to the discharge of the energy storage device before it has reached the end of its lifespan.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein, The charging parameters include at least one of the following parameters: the charging voltage and charging current of the charging cycle of the energy storage device.

3. The control device according to claim 2, wherein, The charging voltage is the maximum charging voltage applied during a charging cycle, and / or the charging current is the maximum charging current applied during a charging cycle.

4. The control device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The control device is configured to set the charging parameters by reducing the charging voltage and / or the charging current compared to the previous charging voltage and / or the previous charging current applied during a previous charging cycle that occurred before the energy storage device had reached the end of its lifespan.

5. The control device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The discharge parameters include the maximum number of discharges of the energy storage device during a discharge cycle.

6. The control device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The discharge parameters include the discharge rate of the energy storage device.

7. The control device according to claim 6, wherein, Setting the discharge parameters includes reducing the discharge rate compared to the discharge rate set during a discharge cycle that occurs before the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan.

8. The control device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, Setting the discharge parameters includes limiting the discharge current and / or voltage to below a predetermined discharge current and / or voltage threshold.

9. The control device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a sensor configured to determine a measurement of a characteristic of the energy storage device; and optionally wherein the characteristic is at least one of the following: expansion rate, expansion amount, storage capacity, change in storage capacity, health status, time spent charging the energy storage device, number of times the energy storage device has been discharged, and number of usage cycles in which the energy storage device has been powered.

10. The control device according to claim 9, wherein, The control device is configured to determine that the energy storage device has reached the end of its life when the measured characteristics meet a predetermined threshold.

11. An aerosol supply device, comprising: Energy storage devices; as well as The control device according to any of the preceding claims.

12. An aerosol supply system, comprising: Products, including aerosol generating media; as well as The aerosol supply device according to claim 11.

13. A method for controlling the operation of an energy storage device in an aerosol supply apparatus, the method comprising: Determine whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan; as well as When it is determined that the energy storage device has reached the end of its service life: The energy storage device is allowed to be charged, and the charging parameters of the energy storage device are set such that the charging of the energy storage device is changed compared to the charging of the energy storage device before it has reached the end of its lifespan. and / or The energy storage device is allowed to discharge, and the discharge parameters of the energy storage device are set such that the discharge of the energy storage device is changed compared to the discharge of the energy storage device before it has reached the end of its lifespan.

14. An aerosol supply device, comprising: Energy storage devices; A control device configured to determine whether the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan; as well as A display is communicatively connected to the control device, wherein the display is configured to display information indicating that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan.

15. A method for operating an aerosol supply device, the method comprising: The control equipment determines whether the energy storage device of the aerosol supply device has reached the end of its service life. as well as A display connected communicatively to the control device shows information indicating that the energy storage device has reached the end of its lifespan.

Images