Electronic cigarette device with temperature-activated battery vent port
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2022579888
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2020-08-07
- Filing Date
- 2021-07-16
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-20
- Estimated Expiration
- 2041-07-16
AI Technical Summary
Existing electronic cigarette devices lack an effective mechanism to safely relieve pressure within the housing due to battery overheating, which can lead to explosions, as existing safety valves either react too late or require rapid pressure buildup to activate.
A temperature-controlled safety valve using a shape memory alloy (SMA) that automatically opens when the battery temperature exceeds a certain threshold, providing rapid pressure relief before significant pressure buildup occurs, and re-closes when the temperature returns to normal.
The SMA-based safety valve effectively prevents explosions by quickly relieving pressure during battery overheating, ensuring device safety while maintaining a sealed environment against external contaminants.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic cigarette device.
Background Art
[0002] In recent years, among consumers, there is a tendency to use an electronic cigarette device that is basically used in the same way as a conventional paper cigarette instead of the conventional paper cigarette. In particular, in order to inhale the aerosol, the lips contact the cartomizer at the first end of the device.
[0003] Such a device is usually powered by a battery mounted in a housing. In order to protect the battery from external influences such as dirt, dust, or moisture, it is necessary to hermetically seal the housing from the outside.
[0004] However, although it is a rare case, the battery has overheated and released high-pressure gas, which may cause an explosion if the pressure in the housing cannot be released. Therefore, in order to improve the safety of the device, it is necessary to provide a means for reducing such pressure.
[0005] A battery pack for an electronic cigarette provided with a safety valve for pressure release in case of malfunction of the battery is disclosed, for example, in Chinese Patent No. 107432498. Since the safety valve opens only when the pressure in the battery pack rises, there is still a risk of explosion when the pressure rises very rapidly.
[0006] A battery monitoring and protection system not applicable to electronic cigarettes, particularly a system characterized by a safety exhaust valve provided with a shape memory alloy (SMA) sheet, is disclosed in Chinese Patent No. 108091805. As long as the temperature is below a specific value, the SMA sheet closes the vent hole. When the value is exceeded, the SMA sheet deforms and the vent hole opens. A battery cell module provided with a similar safety valve is disclosed in US Patent No. 9231237B2.
[0007] U.S. Patent No. 7,607,402,B2 discloses, among other things, the use of SMA in a wide variety of applications for generating pathways through the shell walls of drug delivery devices to release substances into the human body. [Overview of the project]
[0008] In view of the above, the fundamental objective of the present invention is to provide an electronic cigarette device equipped with a sealed battery compartment and means for reliably releasing pressure in the event of battery overheating ("thermal event").
[0009] This objective is addressed by the subject matter of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are described in further claims.
[0010] Accordingly, the present invention relates to an electronic cigarette device comprising a housing configured to hold a battery, a vent port disposed within the housing, and a safety valve means disposed on the vent port, wherein the safety valve means is configured to open and / or close the vent port depending in part and / or entirely on the temperature inside the housing.
[0011] Since the valve automatically opens when the battery temperature exceeds a certain level, the risk of explosion due to pressure rise inside the housing caused by battery malfunction can be reduced.
[0012] Because the battery heats up before it emits gas, the valve opens even before pressure builds up inside the housing. In contrast, a pressure-controlled valve will only open after a certain pressure has built up inside the housing, which can be dangerous, especially if the pressure rises very rapidly.
[0013] The safety valve mechanism is preferably configured to close the vent port by taking a first shape during normal conditions (below the temperature threshold) and to open the vent port by taking a second shape when the temperature exceeds the threshold. A valve mechanism that opens the vent port by changing the shape of the vent port in the event of a thermal event is a reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-implement method for temperature-controlled safety valves.
[0014] Preferably, the safety valve means is further configured to return to its first shape when the temperature falls below a threshold in order to partially or completely close the vent port. Advantageously, after the thermal event has ceased and the battery has cooled down, the valve means can close the vent port again to prevent the user from being exposed to potentially toxic residues remaining in the housing.
[0015] The threshold temperature is preferably between 59°C and 74°C. A threshold within this temperature range has been shown to reliably indicate thermal events in the battery and cause deformation of the SMA to open the vent ports.
[0016] It is even more preferable that the reaction time for the safety valve mechanism to fully open is less than 100 milliseconds. A shorter reaction time for the valve mechanism enhances the safety of the e-cigarette device because, in the event of a thermal event, pressure can rise rapidly within the housing, which can be avoided by quickly opening the safety valve.
[0017] The safety valve mechanism may further include at least SMA elements, including shape memory alloy (SMA). SMA is suitable as a valve mechanism for temperature-controlled safety valves because it is durable, reliable, relatively cost-effective, and available in a wide range of specifications.
[0018] The SMA element may further contain a mixture of 45Ni-50Ti-5Cu. This particular type of SMA has been proven to be very suitable for its intended application because its deformation temperature falls within the specified range above, corresponding to the temperature at which thermal events occur.
[0019] The safety valve means may preferably further include at least an elastic seal made of silicone. Such an elastic seal helps prevent dust or moisture from entering the housing when the valve is closed and can be elastically deformed by the valve means in the event of a thermal event.
[0020] The safety valve means may be configured to bend, straighten, shrink, expand, harden, soften, melt, or decompose, at least partially, when a temperature threshold is exceeded. All of the above transitions can cause the valve means to open a vent port in the event of a temperature rise due to a thermal event and are relatively easy to implement.
[0021] The SMA element may have a circular or semicircular shape and may be attached to an elastic seal and configured to partially straighten when heated, thereby increasing the diameter of its circular or semicircular shape and radially pushing the elastic seal apart to increase the diameter of the valve opening.
[0022] This embodiment is particularly cost-effective and easy to implement compared, for example, to a configuration featuring a safety valve means comprising two separate components.
[0023] The SMA element may have a curved shape and may be attached to the elastic seal of the first portion of the safety valve means and may be configured to partially straighten when heated, thereby separating the first portion at least partially from the second portion of the safety valve means, thereby creating and / or increasing the valve opening.
[0024] The SMA element may have a longitudinal shape and may be configured to bend when heated, thereby partially lifting the safety valve means from the vent port to create and / or increase the valve opening.
[0025] The SMA element can have an elongated shape, be attached to the first part of the safety valve means, and be configured to contract when heated, thereby separating the first part from the second part of the safety valve means and creating and / or increasing the valve opening.
[0026] These embodiments allow the vent port to be completely sealed by the safety valve means when closed.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0027] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings showing exemplary embodiments.
[0028] [Figure 1] A schematic top view of an electronic cigarette device according to the present invention is shown. [Figure 2a] An enlarged view of region "A" of FIG. 1 according to the first embodiment in the closed state is shown. [Figure 2b] An enlarged view of region "A" of FIG. 1 according to the first embodiment in the open state is shown. [Figure 3a] A cross-sectional view taken along line "B" of FIG. 2a according to the first embodiment in the closed state is shown. [Figure 3b] A cross-sectional view taken along line "C" of FIG. 2b according to the first embodiment in the open state is shown. [Figure 4a] An enlarged view of region "A" of FIG. 1 according to the second embodiment in the closed state is shown. [Figure 4b] An enlarged view of region "A" of FIG. 1 according to the second embodiment in the open state is shown. [Figure 5a] A cross-sectional view taken along line "D" of FIG. 4a according to the second embodiment in the closed state is shown. [Figure 5b] A cross-sectional view taken along line "E" of FIG. 4b according to the second embodiment in the open state is shown. [Figure 6a] An enlarged view of region "A" of FIG. 1 according to the third embodiment in the closed state is shown. [Figure 6b] An enlarged view of region "A" of FIG. 1 according to the third embodiment in the open state is shown. [Figure 7a]A cross-sectional view along line "F" in Figure 6a is shown according to the third embodiment in a closed state. [Figure 7b] Figure 6b shows a cross-sectional view along line "G" in the third embodiment with the opening mechanism. [Figure 8a] This shows an enlarged view of region "A" in Figure 1 according to the fourth embodiment in a closed state. [Figure 8b] This shows an enlarged view of area "A" in Figure 1 according to the fourth embodiment in the open state. [Figure 9a] A cross-sectional view along line "H" in Figure 8a is shown, representing the fourth embodiment in a closed state. [Figure 9b] Figure 8b shows a cross-sectional view along line "I" in the fourth embodiment with the opening mechanism. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0029] The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments and should be understood as illustrative and not limiting. Features of the embodiments described below can also be used to further characterize the device defined in the claims.
[0030] Further embodiments can be formed by combining variations in features. Features described in individual embodiments can be provided in a single embodiment if they are not interchangeable. Similarly, features described in a single embodiment can be provided individually or in any suitable subcombination in several embodiments.
[0031] The same reference number in different figures refers to the same, corresponding, or functionally similar element.
[0032] Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of an electronic cigarette device 10 according to the present invention. Inside the housing 12 is a battery 14 that supplies energy to a cartomizer (not shown) to produce vapor for the user to inhale. Since the housing 12 is substantially hermetically sealed, the battery 14 is protected from external influences such as dirt, dust, or moisture.
[0033] The housing 12 further includes a vent port 16, preferably located near the battery 14, to release pressure from inside the housing 12 in case of a thermal event in which the battery 14 overheats and emits high-pressure gas.
[0034] The vent port 16 is covered by a temperature-operated valve mechanism 18 that automatically opens the vent port 16 in the event of a thermal event to release the pressure inside the housing 12 caused by the gases emitted from the battery 14. The valve mechanism 18 can have various designs, as illustrated in the following embodiments.
[0035] Figures 2a and 2b show enlarged views of area "A" in Figure 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in a closed and open state, respectively. In this example, the vent port 16 is a circular hole in the housing 12 and is covered by a circular valve mechanism 18. However, they are not limited to circular. The valve mechanism 18 consists of a semicircular SMA element 20, which covers the vent port 16 and is attached to an elastic seal 22 having a small (valve) opening 24 in the center, which can be completely closed by additional means (not shown).
[0036] In the thermal event, the SMA element 20 expands or partially straightens, thereby increasing the diameter of its semicircular shape, radially pushing the silicone seal 22 apart, and increasing the diameter of the valve opening 24.
[0037] Figures 3a and 3b show cross-sectional views along lines "B" and "C" in Figures 2a and 2b, respectively. A valve mechanism 18, consisting of an SMA element 20 and an elastic seal 22, is positioned on the vent port 16 of the housing 12. When the SMA element 20 unfolds, the valve opening 24 located in the center of the elastic seal 22 also opens. In this embodiment, since the vent port 16 is not completely covered when closed, additional sealing elements, such as a central pin, may be provided to cover the small valve opening 24 when closed.
[0038] Figures 4a and 4b show enlarged views of area "A" in Figure 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention, in a closed and open state, respectively. In this example, the vent port 16 is a circular hole in the housing 12 and is covered by a substantially rectangular valve mechanism 18 consisting of two separate parts. Here again, various shapes can be used. Both parts of the valve mechanism 18 consist of semicircular SMA elements 20a, 20b and elastic seals 22a, 22b, which abut the center of the vent port 16 and thereby completely cover it.
[0039] In the event of thermal activity, the SMA elements 20a and 20b unfold or partially straighten, thereby separating the adjacent elastic seals 22a and 22b and creating a gap, or valve opening 24, between the two parts of the valve means 18.
[0040] Figures 5a and 5b show cross-sectional views along lines "D" and "E" in Figures 4a and 4b, respectively. Both portions of the valve mechanism 18, each consisting of SMA elements 20a and 20b and elastic seals 22a and 22b, are positioned on the vent port 16 of the housing 12. When the SMA elements 20a and 20b are straightened, a valve opening 24 is created between the two portions of the valve mechanism 18. In this embodiment, the vent port 16 is completely covered when closed, so no additional sealing elements are required.
[0041] Figures 6a and 6b show enlarged views of area "A" in Figure 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention in a closed and open state, respectively. In this example, the vent port 16 is a circular hole in the housing 12 and is covered by a substantially rectangular valve mechanism 18. Here again, various shapes can be used. The valve mechanism 18 comprises a straight or flat SMA element 20 attached to an elastic seal 22 and covers the vent port 16 in the closed state.
[0042] In the thermal event, the SMA element 20 bends upward, thereby lifting the elastic seal 22 and creating a gap, or valve opening 24, between the vent port 16 and the valve means 18.
[0043] Figures 7a and 7b show cross-sectional views along lines "F" and "G" in Figures 6a and 6b, respectively. A valve mechanism 18, consisting of an SMA element 20 and an elastic seal 22, is positioned on the vent port 16 of the housing 12. When the SMA element 20 is bent upward, the elastic seal 22 is partially separated from the housing 12, creating a valve opening 24. In this embodiment, the vent port 16 is completely covered when closed, so no additional sealing element is required.
[0044] Figures 8a and 8b show enlarged views of area "A" in Figure 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, in a closed and open state, respectively. In this example, the vent port 16 is a circular hole in the housing 12 and is covered by a substantially rectangular valve mechanism 18 consisting of two separate parts. Here again, various shapes can be used. Both parts of the valve mechanism 18 consist of straight SMA elements 20a, 20b and elastic seals 22a, 22b, which abut the center of the vent port 16 and thereby completely cover it.
[0045] In the event of thermal activity, the SMA elements 20a and 20b contract, thereby pulling apart the adjacent elastic seals 22a and 22b and creating a gap, or valve opening 24, between the two parts of the valve means 18.
[0046] Figures 9a and 9b show cross-sectional views along lines "H" and "I" in Figures 8a and 8b, respectively. Both parts of the valve mechanism 18, each consisting of SMA elements 20a and 20b and elastic seals 22a and 22b, are positioned on the vent port 16 of the housing 12. When the SMA elements 20a and 20b contract, a valve opening 24 is created between the two parts of the valve mechanism 18. In this embodiment, the vent port 16 is completely covered when closed, so no additional sealing elements are required.
[0047] It should be noted that the valve means 18 shown in the second and fourth embodiments do not necessarily have to be arranged symmetrically. For example, it is possible that only one side of the valve means 18 is equipped with an SMA element 20.
[0048] It should also be noted that it may be even more advantageous if the valve means 18 does not completely seal the vent port 16, as long as the valve opening 24 is sufficiently small when closed. In this case, for example, in the first embodiment, no additional sealing element is provided, and both portions of the valve means 18 in the second and fourth embodiments are arranged with a gap when closed. [Explanation of symbols]
[0049] 10 Electronic Cigarette Devices 12 Housing 14 batteries 16 Vent Ports 18 Valve mechanism 20, 20a, 20b SMA elements 22, 22a, 22b Elastic seals 24 valve opening
Claims
1. An electronic cigarette device (10), comprising: a housing (12) configured to hold a battery (14); a vent port (16) disposed within the housing (12); a relief valve means (18) disposed on said vent port (16); Equipped with the relief valve means (18) is configured to partially and / or completely open and / or close the vent port (16) depending on the temperature within the housing; An electronic cigarette device (10).
2. the relief valve means (18) is configured to assume a first shape to at least partially block the vent port (16) during normal conditions when the temperature is below a threshold value, and to assume a second shape to at least partially open the vent port (16) when the temperature exceeds the threshold value.
2. The electronic cigarette device (10) of claim 1.
3. the relief valve means (18) is configured to return to its first shape to partially or completely block the vent port (16) when the temperature falls below the threshold.
3. The electronic cigarette device (10) of claim 2.
4. The threshold is between 59° C. and 74° C. An electronic cigarette device (10) according to any one of claims 2 or 3.
5. said relief valve means (18) having a response time to full opening of less than 100 milliseconds; An electronic cigarette device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
6. The safety valve means (18) includes at least an SMA element (20) including a shape memory alloy. An electronic cigarette device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.
7. The SMA element (20) comprises a mixture of 45Ni-50Ti-5Cu; 7. The electronic cigarette device (10) of claim 6.
8. The safety valve means (18) includes at least a resilient seal (22). An electronic cigarette device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.
9. An electronic cigarette device (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the safety valve means (18) includes at least a silicone seal.
10. An electronic cigarette device (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the safety valve means (18) includes a seal that completely covers the vent port (16) when the vent port (16) is in a closed position.
11. An electronic cigarette device (10) as described in claim 10, wherein when the temperature exceeds a threshold value, the seal at least partially separates from the housing (12), thereby generating a valve opening.
12. An electronic cigarette device (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the vent port (16) is sealed by the safety valve means (18) when the vent port (16) is in a closed state.
13. An electronic cigarette device (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the vent port (16) is circular.
14. An electronic cigarette device (10) as described in claim 13, wherein the vent port (16) is covered by a circular valve means.
15. the relief valve means (18) being configured to at least partially bend, straighten, contract, expand, harden, soften, melt, or decompose when the temperature exceeds the threshold value; An electronic cigarette device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.
16. 8. The electronic cigarette device (10) of claim 6 or 7, wherein the SMA element (20) has a circular or semicircular shape, is attached to an elastomeric seal (22), and is configured to partially straighten when heated, thereby increasing the diameter of its circle or semicircle and pushing the elastomeric seal (22) radially apart to increase the diameter of the valve opening (24).
17. 8. The electronic cigarette device (10) of claim 6 or 7, wherein the SMA element (20) has a curved shape, is attached to an elastic seal (22) of a first portion of the safety valve means (18) and is configured to partially straighten when heated, thereby at least partially separating the first portion from a second portion of the safety valve means (18) and creating and / or increasing a valve opening (24).
18. 8. The electronic cigarette device (10) of claim 6 or 7, wherein the SMA element (20) has an elongated shape and is configured to bend when heated, thereby lifting the safety valve means (18) partially out of the vent port (16) and creating and / or increasing a valve opening (24).
19. 8. The electronic cigarette device (10) of claim 6 or 7, wherein the SMA element (20) has an elongated shape, is attached to a first portion of the safety valve means (18) and is configured to contract when heated, thereby spacing the first portion from a second portion of the safety valve means (18) and creating and / or increasing a valve opening (24).
20. An electronic cigarette device (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the vent port (16) is positioned within the housing (12) near the battery (14).
21. An electronic cigarette device (10) as described in claim 20, wherein the housing (12), together with the vent port (16) having the safety valve means (18), protects the battery (14) from external influences.