Control unit for aerosol generation device

Abstract

To provide an improved control unit for an aerosol generation device.SOLUTION: A control unit for an aerosol generation device includes: a sensor 160 for outputting a value on a temperature of a lithium ion secondary battery which is a rechargeable power source dischargeable to a load for atomizing an aerosol source; and a control unit configured so as to execute one or more functions for operating the power source when an output value of the sensor belongs to a first range having a first upper limit and a first lower limit. The first upper limit is smaller than a second upper limit in a second range having the second upper limit and a second lower limit, and the first lower limit is the second lower limit or more. At least one of an absolute value of a difference between the two upper limits and an absolute value of a difference between the two lower limits is a maximum value or more of an error in an output value to an input value of the sensor. The control unit is configured so as to execute the plurality of functions, and the first range varies for each function.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control unit for an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Instead of cigarettes, an aerosol generating device is known that allows users to enjoy an aerosol generated by atomizing an aerosol source with an electric load such as a heater (Patent Documents 1 and 2). The aerosol generating device includes a heating element that atomizes the aerosol source, a power source that supplies power to the heating element, and a control unit that controls the heating element and the power source.

[0003] US Patent No. 5,399,633 discloses an aerosol generating device having a temperature sensor configured to measure the ambient temperature during use. The device described in US Patent No. 5,399,633 remains in a standby mode after measuring the temperature if the temperature measured by the temperature sensor during use exceeds a threshold value, or leaves the standby mode if the temperature falls below the threshold value. It also describes disabling the device when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor during use exceeds a limit threshold value.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a method for charging a power source mounted on an aerosol generating device. Patent Document 2 also describes changing the rate of the charging current supplied to the power source or prohibiting charging depending on the ambient temperature. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2017-079747 [Patent Document 2] Special table number 2017-518733 Summary of the Invention

[0006] A first feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device, comprising: a sensor that outputs a value related to the temperature of a power source that is rechargeable and dischargeable to a load that atomizes an aerosol source; and a control unit configured to execute a function of operating the power source when the output value of the sensor falls within a first range having at least one of a first upper limit and a first lower limit, wherein the first upper limit or the first lower limit is smaller or larger than a second upper limit or a second lower limit of a second range that is a range of values ​​related to the temperature at which the function can be executed, a range of values ​​related to the temperature that suppresses deterioration of the power source, a range of values ​​related to the temperature at which the power source deteriorates due only to the same factors as room temperature, or a range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power source.

[0007] Here, the value related to temperature may be the temperature itself, or may be a physical quantity different from temperature, for example, a physical quantity that can be converted to temperature. In other words, the value related to temperature may be a physical quantity that has a correlation with temperature. The physical quantity that can be converted to or has a correlation with temperature may be, for example, an electrical resistance value of a resistor provided near the power source or attached to the surface of the power source, or a voltage drop amount (potential difference) in the resistor. The sensor may be any sensor that can obtain a value related to the temperature of the power source, such as a thermistor. For example, when the value related to the temperature of the power source is the temperature itself, the sensor may be a temperature sensor. When the value related to the temperature of the power source is a voltage drop amount, the sensor may be a voltage sensor.

[0008] Here, the function of manipulating the power supply is a function that, when executed, has some effect on the power supply directly or indirectly. This refers to something that directly affects the power supply. Examples of this function include charging and discharging to vary the remaining capacity of the power supply, and detecting or estimating the state of the power supply used as an input for controls that affect the power supply. Note that since the temperature of the power supply is already acquired before the function is executed, acquiring the temperature of the power supply is excluded from this function.

[0009] A second feature is summarized in the control unit for the aerosol generating device of the first feature, wherein the first range has a first upper limit, and the first upper limit is smaller than the second upper limit.

[0010] A third feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in the first or second feature, wherein the first range has a first lower limit, and the first lower limit is greater than the second lower limit.

[0011] A fourth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the first to third features, wherein the first range has the first upper limit and the first lower limit, and the sign of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit is different from the sign of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit.

[0012] A fifth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the first to fourth features, wherein at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is greater than or equal to the maximum value of the error in the output value relative to the input value of the sensor.

[0013] A sixth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the first to fifth features, wherein the control unit is configured to vary at least one of the first upper limit and the first lower limit.

[0014] A seventh feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the first to sixth features, wherein the sensor is positioned inside or near an electronic component that is separate from the power source, and the distance between the sensor and the electronic component is shorter than the distance between the sensor and the power source.

[0015] An eighth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in the seventh feature, wherein at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is greater than or equal to an amount of change corresponding to the temperature change until the temperature of the power source is transmitted to the sensor or the electronic component.

[0016] A ninth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in the seventh feature, wherein at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is greater than or equal to the absolute value of the difference between the output value of the sensor in the absence of error and a value corresponding to the true value of the temperature of the power source.

[0017] A tenth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in the seventh feature, wherein at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is greater than or equal to the amount of change equivalent to the temperature change until the temperature of the power source is transmitted to the sensor or the electronic component, or the absolute value of the difference between the output value of the sensor in the absence of error and a value equivalent to the true value of the temperature of the power source, added to the maximum value of the error of the output value relative to the input value of the sensor.

[0018] An eleventh feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the seventh to tenth features, wherein the electronic component is the control unit, and the control unit is configured to adjust at least one of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit based on the amount of calculations per specified time of the control unit.

[0019] A twelfth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the seventh to tenth features, wherein the control unit is configured to adjust at least one of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit based on an output value of the sensor.

[0020] A thirteenth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the first to twelfth features, wherein the functions include at least one of discharging, charging, and deterioration diagnosis of the power source.

[0021] A fourteenth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any one of the first to thirteenth features, wherein the second upper limit is a temperature at which a change in structure or composition of an electrode or an electrolyte in the power supply occurs.

[0022] A fifteenth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the first to fourteenth features, wherein the function includes at least one of discharging the power supply and diagnosing deterioration, and the second upper limit is 60°C.

[0023] A 16th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the 1st to 15th features, wherein the functions include at least one of discharging the power supply and diagnosing deterioration, and the first upper limit is 54°C.

[0024] A 17th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the first to fourteenth features, wherein the function is charging the power source and the second upper limit is 45°C.

[0025] An 18th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any one of the first to fourteenth features or the seventeenth feature, wherein the function is charging the power source and the first upper limit is 39°C.

[0026] A 19th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any one of the first to sixteenth features, wherein the function is charging the power source, and the second lower limit is a temperature at which electrochemical deposition occurs in the power source.

[0027] A twentieth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any one of the first to sixteenth features or the nineteenth feature, wherein the second lower limit is 0°C.

[0028] A twenty-first feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any one of the first to sixteenth features, the nineteenth feature, and the twentieth feature, wherein the first lower limit is 6°C.

[0029] A 22nd feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the 1st feature to the 16th feature or the 19th feature, wherein the function includes at least one of discharging the power source and diagnosing deterioration of the power source, and the second lower limit is -10°C.

[0030] A 23rd feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any one of the first to sixteenth features, the nineteenth feature, and the twentieth feature, wherein the function includes at least one of discharging the power source and diagnosing deterioration, and the first lower limit is -4°C.

[0031] A 24th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the 1st to 23rd features, wherein the control unit is configured to be able to execute a plurality of the functions, and the first range differs for each of the functions.

[0032] A 25th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in any of the 1st to 24th features, wherein the control unit is configured to be able to execute a plurality of the functions, and at least one of the first upper limit, the first lower limit, the second upper limit, the second lower limit, the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is the same for the plurality of functions.

[0033] A twenty-sixth feature is an aerosol generating device having a control unit according to any one of the first to twenty-fifth features, and the load that atomizes the aerosol source.

[0034] The 27th feature is summarized as a method including the steps of: acquiring or estimating a value related to a temperature of a power source that is rechargeable and capable of discharging to a load that atomizes an aerosol source; and executing a function to operate the power source when the value related to the temperature of the power source falls within a first range having at least one of a first upper limit and a first lower limit, wherein the first upper limit or the first lower limit is smaller or larger than a second upper limit or a second lower limit of a second range that is a range of temperature values ​​for which the function can be executed, a range of temperature values ​​for which deterioration of the power source is suppressed, a range of temperature values ​​for which the power source deteriorates due to only the same factors as room temperature, or a range equivalent to the operating temperature of the power source.

[0035] A twenty-eighth feature is summarized as a program for causing a computer to execute the method in the twenty-seventh feature. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded view showing the aerosol generation device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the atomization unit according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the power supply unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the power supply unit. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an electric circuit of the power supply unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an electric circuit of the atomization unit including the load and the power supply unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a control flow in discharging the power supply. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a control flow for charging the power source. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the temperature of the power supply 10 and whether each function can be executed. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a control flow in discharging the power supply in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a control flow for charging the power source in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an electric circuit of a power supply unit and a charging unit in the third embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of the charging unit. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a control flow on the charging unit side in charging the power source in the third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a control flow on the power supply unit side in charging the power supply in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0037] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and the ratio of dimensions may differ from the actual ones.

[0038] Therefore, specific dimensions should be determined with reference to the following explanation. In addition, the drawings may of course include parts with different dimensional relationships and ratios.

[0039] [Disclosure Summary] According to one aspect, a control unit for an aerosol generating device includes a sensor that outputs a value related to a temperature of a power source that is rechargeable and dischargeable to a load that nebulizes the aerosol source, and a controller configured to execute a function to operate the power source when the output value of the sensor falls within a first range having at least one of a first upper limit and a first lower limit, the first upper limit or the first lower limit being smaller or larger than a second upper limit or a second lower limit of a second range that is a range of values ​​related to a temperature at which the function can be executed, a range of values ​​related to a temperature at which degradation of the power source is suppressed, a range of values ​​related to a temperature at which the power source is deteriorated only by the same factors as at room temperature, or a range corresponding to an operating temperature of the power source.

[0040] Since the temperature sensor has unavoidable measurement errors and manufacturing errors, the output value of the temperature sensor may deviate from the true value of the temperature of the power supply. In the following, unless otherwise specified, the "true value of the temperature of the power supply" refers to the exact value of the temperature of the power supply. In other words, the output value of an ideal temperature sensor that does not have measurement errors or manufacturing errors coincides with the "true value of the temperature of the power supply." Therefore, if the sensor is configured to execute a function to operate the power supply when the output value of the sensor is within the second range, the function to operate the power supply may be executed when the true value of the power supply is outside the second range. Note that a similar problem may occur even if the temperature sensor does not directly output the temperature of the power supply.

[0041] In this embodiment, the control unit executes a function of operating the power supply when the output value of the temperature sensor is within a first range that deviates from a second range in response to a deviation between the output value of the temperature sensor and the true value of the temperature of the power supply, thereby enabling the control unit to execute the function of operating the power supply only when the temperature of the power supply is within a more suitable range.

[0042] [First embodiment] The aerosol generating device according to the first embodiment will be described below. FIG. 1 is an exploded view showing the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a view showing the atomization unit according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of the power supply unit. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the power supply unit. FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the aerosol generating device. FIG. 6 is a view showing an electric circuit of the power supply unit. FIG. 7 is a view showing an electric circuit of the atomization unit and the power supply unit including a load.

[0043] The aerosol generating device 100 may be a non-combustion inhaler for inhaling an aerosol without combustion. More preferably, the aerosol generating device 100 may be a portable inhaler.

[0044] The aerosol generation device 100 may have a shape extending along a predetermined direction A, which is a direction from the non-suction end E2 toward the mouth end E1. In this case, the aerosol generation device 100 may include one end E1 having a mouth 141 for inhaling flavor, and the other end E2 opposite the mouth 141.

[0045] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a power supply unit 110 and an atomizing unit 120. The atomizing unit 120 may include a case 123 and a load 121R disposed inside the case 123. The case 123 may form a part of the outermost outer surface of the aerosol generating device.

[0046] The atomization unit 120 may be configured to be detachable from the power supply unit 110 via mechanical connection parts 111, 121. When the atomization unit 120 and the power supply unit 110 are mechanically connected to each other, the load 121R in the atomization unit 120 is electrically connected to the power supply 10 provided in the power supply unit 110 via electrical connection terminals (first connection parts) 111t, 121t. In other words, the electrical connection terminals 111t, 121t constitute a connection part that can electrically connect the load 121R and the power supply 10.

[0047] The atomization unit 120 includes an aerosol source that is inhaled by a user, and an electric load 121R that atomizes the aerosol source using electric power from the power source 10.

[0048] The load 121R may be any element capable of generating an aerosol from an aerosol source using power from a power source. For example, the load 121R may be a heating element such as a heater, or an element such as an ultrasonic generator. Examples of the heating element include a heating resistor, a ceramic heater, and an induction heater.

[0049] A more detailed example of the atomization unit 120 will be described below with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The atomization unit 120 may have a reservoir 121P, a wick 121Q, and a load 121R. The reservoir 121P may be configured to store a liquid aerosol source. The reservoir 121P may be a porous body made of a material such as a resin web. The wick 121Q may be a liquid holding member that draws the aerosol source from the reservoir 121P by utilizing capillary action. The wick 121Q may be made of, for example, glass fiber or porous ceramic.

[0050] The load 121R heats the aerosol source held by the wick 121Q. The load 121R is formed, for example, of a resistance heating element (for example, a heating wire) wound around the wick 121Q.

[0051] The air flowing in from the inlet 125, which takes in outside air into the flow path, passes near the load 121R in the atomizing unit 120 in the flow path 122A. The aerosol generated by the load 121R flows toward the suction port 141 together with the air. Hereinafter, the flow path 122A refers to the path between the inlet 125 and the suction port 141 among the paths through which a fluid can flow. In other words, this flow path 122A passes the airflow generated by the user's inhalation. In this embodiment, the flow path 122A runs from the connection between the atomizing unit 120 and the power supply unit 110 through the atomizing unit 120 to the suction port 141.

[0052] In this embodiment, the inlet 125 is provided in the connection part 121 of the atomization unit 120. Alternatively, the inlet 125 may be provided in the connection part 111 of the power supply unit 110. Alternatively, the inlet 125 may be provided in the connection part 121 of the atomization unit 120 and the connection part 111 of the power supply unit 110. In either embodiment, the inlet 125 is provided in the connection part between the atomization unit 120 and the power supply unit 110.

[0053] The aerosol source may be liquid at room temperature. For example, the aerosol source may be a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin or propylene glycol. The aerosol source may contain a tobacco raw material or an extract derived from a tobacco raw material that releases a flavor component when heated.

[0054] In the above embodiment, an example of an aerosol source that is liquid at room temperature has been described in detail, but instead, an aerosol source that is solid at room temperature may be used. In this case, the load 121R may be in contact with or close to the solid aerosol source to generate aerosol from the solid aerosol source.

[0055] The atomization unit 120 may include a replaceable flavor unit (cartridge) 130. The flavor unit 130 may have a cylindrical body 131 that contains a flavor source. The cylindrical body 131 may include a membrane member 133 and a filter 132 that allow air, aerosol, etc. to pass through. The flavor source may be provided in a space defined by the membrane member 133 and the filter 132.

[0056] According to one preferred embodiment, a flavor source in the flavor unit 130 imparts flavor components to the aerosol generated by the load 121R of the atomization unit 120. The flavor imparted to the aerosol by the flavor source is delivered to the mouthpiece 141 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0057] The flavor source in the flavor unit 130 may be solid at room temperature. As an example, the flavor source is composed of raw material pieces of plant material that impart flavor components to the aerosol. The raw material pieces constituting the flavor source may be a molded product obtained by molding tobacco material such as cut tobacco or tobacco raw material into particles. Alternatively, the flavor source may be a molded product obtained by molding tobacco material into a sheet. The raw material pieces constituting the flavor source may be composed of plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint, herbs, etc.). The flavor source may be imparted with flavorings such as menthol.

[0058] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a mouthpiece having an inhalation port for a user to inhale the inhaled components. The mouthpiece may be configured to be detachable from the atomizing unit 120 or the flavor unit 130, or may be configured as an inseparable unit. Note that the flavor unit 130 may function as a mouthpiece by exposing a part of the flavor unit 130, including the filter 132, from the case 123.

[0059] A more detailed example of the power supply unit 110 will be described below with reference to Figures 1, 3, and 4. The power supply unit 110 may include a case 113, a power supply 10, a pressure sensor 20, a control unit, and a temperature sensor 160. The power supply 10, the pressure sensor 20, the control unit, and the temperature sensor 160 may be provided in the case 113. The case 113 may form a part of the outermost outer surface of the aerosol generating device.

[0060] As described above, the power source 10 is electrically connected or configured to be connectable to a load 121R that nebulizes the aerosol source. That is, the power source 10 is capable of discharging to the load 121R. The power source 10 may be replaceable with respect to the power supply unit 110. The power source 10 may be, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0061] The secondary battery may include a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator separating the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and an electrolyte or ionic liquid. In a lithium ion secondary battery, the positive electrode is made of a positive electrode material such as lithium oxide, and the negative electrode is made of an anode material such as graphite. The electrolyte may be, for example, a lithium salt organic solvent.

[0062] The pressure sensor 20 is configured to output a value of a pressure change in the aerosol generation device 100 caused by the user inhaling or blowing through the suction port 141. Specifically, the pressure sensor 20 may be a sensor that outputs an output value (e.g., a voltage value or a current value) according to the air pressure that changes according to the flow rate of air sucked from the non-suction port side to the suction port side (i.e., the user's puffing operation). The output value of the pressure sensor 20 may have a dimension of pressure, or may have the flow rate or flow velocity of the sucked air instead of the dimension of pressure. Examples of such pressure sensors include a condenser microphone sensor and a known flow rate sensor.

[0063] The control unit may include a control board, a CPU, and a memory. The CPU, memory, etc. constitute a first control unit 50 that performs various controls of the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the first control unit 50 may control the power supplied to the load 121R. The aerosol generation device 100 may include a first switch 172 that can electrically connect and disconnect the load 121R and the power source 10 (see FIG. 6). The first switch 172 is opened and closed by the first control unit 50. The first switch 172 may be composed of, for example, a MOSFET.

[0064] When the first switch 172 is turned ON, power is supplied from the power source 10 to the load 121R. On the other hand, when the first switch 172 is turned OFF, the supply of power from the power source 10 to the load 121R is stopped. The ON / OFF of the first switch 172 is controlled by the first control unit 50.

[0065] The power supply unit 110 may include a request sensor capable of outputting an operation request signal, which is a signal requesting the operation of the load 121R. The request sensor may be, for example, a push button 30 pressed by a user, or the pressure sensor 20 described above. The first control unit 50 acquires the operation request signal to the load 121R and generates a command for operating the load 121R. In one example, the first control unit 50 outputs a command for operating the load 121R to the first switch 172, and the first switch 172 turns ON in response to this command. In this manner, the first control unit 50 may be configured to control the power supply from the power supply 10 to the load 121R. When power is supplied from the power supply 10 to the load 121R, the aerosol source is vaporized or atomized by the load 121R.

[0066] Furthermore, the power supply unit 110 may have a voltage sensor 150 capable of acquiring or estimating the output voltage of the power supply 10, as necessary. In this case, the first control unit 50 can perform a predetermined control according to the output value of the voltage sensor 150. For example, the first control unit 50 can detect or estimate the remaining charge of the power supply 10 or an abnormality in the power supply 10 based on the output value from the voltage sensor 150. When the first control unit 50 detects a decrease in the remaining charge of the power supply 10 or an abnormality in the power supply 10, the first control unit 50 may notify the user by controlling the notification unit 40.

[0067] The voltage sensor 150 may be configured to convert an analog voltage value of the power supply 10 into a digital voltage value using a predetermined correlation, and output the digital voltage value. Specifically, the voltage sensor 150 may have an A / D converter that converts an analog input value into a digital output value. Note that the first control unit 50, rather than the voltage sensor 150, may have the A / D converter.

[0068] In this embodiment, the power supply unit 110 may have a first resistor 152 and a second resistor 153 electrically connected in series to each other. The first resistor 152 is electrically connected to the power supply 10 and is provided to connect a pair of electrical terminals 111t to each other. One end of the second resistor 153 is connected to the first resistor 152, and the other end of the second resistor 153 is connected to the first control unit 50. The electrical resistance values ​​of the first resistor 152 and the second resistor 153 are known. Preferably, the electrical resistance values ​​of the first resistor 152 and the second resistor 153 may be constant regardless of the state of the power supply 10. These resistors 152 and 153 can be used to detect the connection of an external unit to the electrical terminal 111t.

[0069] The notification unit 40 issues a notification to inform the user of various information. The notification unit 40 may be, for example, a light-emitting element such as an LED. Instead, the notification unit 40 may be an acoustic element that generates sound, or a vibrator that generates vibration. Furthermore, the notification unit 40 may be configured by any combination of a light-emitting element, an acoustic element, and a vibrator. The notification unit 40 may be provided at any location of the aerosol generating device 100. In this embodiment, the notification unit 40 may be built into the first control unit 50, or may be located at a location different from the first control unit 50. The notification unit 40 may be provided anywhere as long as it can cause the user to recognize the notification.

[0070] The power supply unit 110 may have a sensor that outputs a value related to the temperature of the power supply 10. Such a sensor is preferably the above-mentioned temperature sensor 160. The output value of the temperature sensor 160 is sent to the first control unit 50.

[0071] The temperature sensor 160 may be provided anywhere as long as it can acquire or estimate the temperature of the power source 10. The temperature sensor 160 may be disposed inside or near an electronic component that is separate from the power source 10. In this case, the distance between the temperature sensor 160 and the electronic item may be shorter than the distance between the temperature sensor 160 and the power source 10. Such an electronic component may be the first controller 50. For example, the temperature sensor 160 may be built into the first controller 50.

[0072] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the power supply unit 110 has a first member 300 and a second member 310 that encase the pressure sensor 20, the temperature sensor 160, and the first control unit 50. The first member 300 and the second member 310 are formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. The second member 310 is fitted to one end of the first member 300. A cap 330 is provided on the other end of the first member 300. An opening 114 that is open to the atmosphere may be formed in the cap 330. This allows the inside of the first member 300 and the second member 310 to be open to the atmosphere.

[0073] The power supply unit 110 may be configured to be connectable to a charging unit capable of charging the power supply 10. In the example shown in FIG. 6, electrical terminals of the charging unit are electrically connected to a pair of electrical terminals 111t of the power supply unit 110. When the charging unit is connected to the power supply unit 110, the charging unit passes a charging current toward the power supply 10. In this case, the first control unit 50 may have a conversion unit capable of converting the power value and / or current value of the charging current and outputting it toward the power supply 10. Such a conversion unit may have a DC / DC converter capable of stepping up and / or stepping down a direct current voltage. This allows the first control unit 50 to change the charging rate (charging speed) of the power supply 10.

[0074] In this embodiment, the charging unit may be electrically connected to the power supply unit 110 by a pair of connection terminals 111t. Alternatively, the power supply unit 110 may have a separate dedicated port for connecting the charging unit. Note that the charging unit does not necessarily have to be mechanically connected to the power supply unit 110. As another example, the charging unit may be configured to charge the power supply unit 110 by contactless charging or non-contact charging.

[0075] The power supply unit 110 may include a second switch 174 between the power supply 10 and the electrical connection terminal 111t. The second switch 174 is opened and closed by the first control unit 50. The second switch 174 may be configured of, for example, a MOSFET. The ON / OFF of the second switch 174 is controlled by the first control unit 50.

[0076] When the second switch 174 is turned ON, the charging current from the charging unit can flow into the power source 10. When the second switch 174 is turned OFF, the charging current from the charging unit cannot flow into the power source 10. In other words, even if a charging unit is connected to the power source unit 110, the first control unit 50 can temporarily or permanently stop charging of the power source 10 by the second switch 174.

[0077] The first control unit 50 may be configured to be able to determine whether or not a charging unit is connected. The first control unit 50 can determine whether or not a charging unit is connected based on, for example, a change in the amount of voltage drop in the second resistor 153 described above.

[0078] The amount of voltage drop in the second resistor 153 differs between when nothing is connected to the pair of electrical terminals 111t and when an external unit such as a charging unit or an atomization unit 120 is connected to the pair of electrical terminals 111t. Therefore, the first control unit 50 can detect the connection of an external unit such as a charging unit or an atomization unit 120 by acquiring the amount of voltage drop in the second resistor 153.

[0079] For example, when the first control unit 50 detects a high-level voltage value at the second resistor 153, it can infer that a charging unit is not connected to the connection terminal 111t. Also, when the first control unit 50 detects a low-level or zero-level voltage value at the second resistor 153, it can infer that a charging unit is connected to the connection terminal 111t.

[0080] More specifically, when the charging unit is not connected to the connection terminal 111t, a current flows from the power source 10 to the first control unit 50 through the first resistor 152 and the second resistor 153. Therefore, a voltage drop occurs in the second resistor 153 due to the current flowing through the second resistor 153, and the first control unit 50 detects a high-level voltage value at the second resistor 153. On the other hand, if the main negative bus of the charging unit connected between the first resistor 152 and the second resistor 153 of the pair of electrical terminals 111t is at ground potential due to grounding, the portion between the first resistor 152 and the second resistor 153 drops to ground potential by connecting the charging unit to the connection terminal 111t. Therefore, when the charging unit is connected to the connection terminal 111t, a current does not flow through the second resistor 153, and the first control unit 50 detects a low-level voltage value at the second resistor 153.

[0081] Instead of the above-described embodiment, the first control unit 50 may detect the connection of the charging unit based on, for example, a change in the potential difference between the pair of connection terminals 111t.

[0082] (Power supply discharge control) Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a control flow in discharging the power source 10. Specifically, Fig. 8 shows a control flow related to the supply of power from the power source 10 to the load 121R. Such a control flow is performed in a state in which the atomization unit 120 is connected to the power source unit 110.

[0083] With the atomization unit 120 connected to the power supply unit 110, the first control unit 50 waits until it receives an operation request signal for the load 121R (step S100). The operation request signal is input to the first control unit 50 from the request sensor described above in response to the user's action. The request sensor may be the pressure sensor 20 or the push button 30, as described above. That is, in step S100, the first control unit 50 detects the inhalation action by the user or the pressing of the push button 30 by the user.

[0084] When the first control unit 50 receives the operation request signal, it acquires or estimates a value related to the temperature of the power source 10 (step S102). In the example shown in Fig. 8, the temperature of the power source 10 itself is acquired or estimated. More specifically, the first control unit 50 acquires the output value (temperature) of the temperature sensor 160.

[0085] Next, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (step S104). This range preferably includes room temperature. The room temperature may be, for example, in the range of 15°C to 25°C (the same applies below). In the example shown in FIG. 8, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to the range of -10°C to 54°C.

[0086] Next, the first control unit 50 executes a function of operating the power source 10 when the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within the above range. Here, the function of operating the power source 10 includes discharging the power source 10. More specifically, the first control unit 50 starts supplying power from the power source 10 to the load 121R (step S106). This causes aerosol to be generated from the aerosol source.

[0087] It is preferable that the power from the power source 10 to the load 121R is supplied in the form of a power pulse. In this case, the first control unit 50 can control the amount of power (amount of power per unit time) supplied to the load 121R by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulse.

[0088] When the load 121R is a heater, the temperature control of the load 121R can be realized by known feedback control. Specifically, the first control unit 50 preferably supplies the power from the power source 10 to the load 121R in the form of a pulse by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In the feedback control, the first control unit 50 measures or estimates the temperature of the load 121R, and controls the power supplied to the load 121R, for example, the above-mentioned duty ratio, based on the difference between the measured or estimated temperature of the load 121R and a target temperature, etc. The feedback control may be, for example, PID control.

[0089] The temperature of the load 121R can be measured or estimated by a temperature sensor placed near the load 121R. Alternatively, the temperature of the load 121R can be estimated by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance of the load 121R, since the electrical resistance of the load 121R varies with temperature. The electrical resistance of the load 121R can be estimated, for example, by measuring the amount of voltage drop across the load 121R. The amount of voltage drop across the load 121R can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the load 121R.

[0090] When the output value of the temperature sensor 160 is not within the above range, the first control unit 50 determines that the temperature of the power source 10 is abnormal (step S130). When a temperature abnormality of the power source 10 is detected in this manner, the first control unit 50 prohibits the power source 10 from discharging (step S132). The prohibition of discharging the power source 10 can be realized, for example, by opening the first switch 172.

[0091] When the first control unit 50 starts supplying power to the load 121R (step S106), the first control unit 50 acquires or estimates a value related to the temperature of the power source 10 (step S108). In the example shown in Fig. 8, the temperature of the power source 10 itself is acquired or estimated. More specifically, the first control unit 50 acquires the output value (temperature) of the temperature sensor 160.

[0092] Next, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (step S110). This range preferably includes room temperature. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range of 15°C to 54°C. The output value of the temperature sensor 160 used in step S110 may be the one acquired in step S102. In this way, the process of step S108 can be omitted.

[0093] In step S110, if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within the above range, the first control unit 50 starts a deterioration diagnosis of the power source 10. In FIG. 8, SOH (State Of Health) is used as an example of deterioration diagnosis of the power source 10. The SOH is defined as a value obtained by dividing the current full charge capacity of the power source 10 by the initial full charge capacity of the power source. The SOH can be estimated by a known method. For example, the first control unit 50 can acquire or estimate the state of health (SOH) of the power source 10 based on an integrated value of the current flowing out of the power source 10, an integrated value of the current flowing into the power source 10, the impedance, and a temperature measured using the temperature sensor 160 (step S120).

[0094] Next, the first control unit 50 judges whether the acquired or estimated SOH is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (step S122). If the acquired or estimated SOH is less than the predetermined threshold, the first control unit 50 judges that the power source 10 has deteriorated (step S124). In this case, the first control unit 50 stops discharging the power source 10 and stores information that deterioration of the power source 10 has occurred in the memory (steps S126, 128). The discharge of the power source 10 can be stopped, for example, by opening the first switch 172. The first control unit 50 may also notify the user that an abnormality has occurred in the power source 10 via the notification unit 40. Also, charging may be prohibited by opening the second switch 174 in addition to the first switch 172.

[0095] If the acquired or estimated SOH is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that the power source 10 is not degraded, and the process proceeds to step S114. If, in step S110, the output value of the temperature sensor 160 is not within the above range, the first control unit 50 proceeds to step S114 without diagnosing the degradation of the power source 10. In step S114, the first control unit 50 determines whether it is time to end the power supply to the load 121R.

[0096] The timing of the end of the power supply to the load 121R may be determined, for example, by the timing of detecting the end of the user's inhalation action, the timing of detecting the release of the user's push button, or the timing when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of the power supply to the load 121R.

[0097] When the first control unit 50 determines that it is time to end the power supply to the load 121R, it ends the power supply to the load 121R (step S116). After ending the power supply to the load 121R, the first control unit 50 waits again until it acquires an operation request signal for the load 121R (step S100).

[0098] When the first control unit 50 determines that it is not time to end the power supply to the load 121R, it continues the power supply to the load 121R and acquires the output value of the temperature sensor 160 again (step S108). Then, the first control unit 50 performs deterioration diagnosis of the power supply 10 according to the output value of the temperature sensor 160 (steps S120 to S128). In this way, it is preferable that the first control unit 50 repeats the deterioration diagnosis of the power supply 10 according to the temperature of the power supply 10 until the power supply to the load 121R ends. If the determination in step S114 is No (negative), the process of steps S106 to S122 may be performed only once in one sequence by repeating step S114. Also, as another example, if the determination in step S114 is No (negative), the process may return to step S102 to determine again whether or not the power supply 10 has a temperature abnormality.

[0099] (Power supply charging control) 9 is a diagram showing a control flow for charging the power source 10. Specifically, in FIG. 9, such a control flow is performed in a state where an external charging unit is connected to the power source unit 110.

[0100] The first control unit 50 determines whether or not the charging unit 200 is connected to the power supply unit 110 (step S300). The first control unit 50 waits until the charging unit 200 is connected to the power supply unit 110.

[0101] When the charging unit 200 is connected, the first control unit 50 acquires or estimates a value related to the temperature of the power source 10 (step S302). In the example shown in Fig. 9, the temperature itself of the power source 10 is acquired or estimated. More specifically, the first control unit 50 acquires the output value of the temperature sensor 160.

[0102] Next, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (step S304). This range preferably includes room temperature. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range of 10°C to 54°C.

[0103] When the output value of the temperature sensor 160 is within the above range, the first control unit 50 starts quick charging (step S306). Here, the charging rate can be expressed using a C rate. In general, the charging rate at which the power source 10 in the discharge end state is charged to a fully charged state in one hour is expressed as 1.0C as a reference. In quick charging, charging may be performed at a charging rate of, for example, 2.0C. However, it should be noted that the C rate in quick charging is not limited to this value.

[0104] The first control unit 50 may have a conversion unit capable of converting and outputting the power value or current value of the charging current from the charging unit. This allows the control unit 50 to convert the charging current from the charging unit to a desired power value or current value and supply it to the power source 10. Therefore, the control unit 50 can switch between quick charging and normal charging, which will be described later.

[0105] In step S304, if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 does not belong to a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to another range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (step S504). This range preferably includes room temperature. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the first control unit 50 determines in step S504 whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range of 6°C to 10°C.

[0106] If the output value of the temperature sensor 160 is within the different range, the control unit 50 starts normal charging (step S506). Here, normal charging may be a charging mode having a C-rate lower than the C-rate of quick charging. In normal charging, charging may be performed at a C-rate of 1.0C, for example.

[0107] If the output value of the temperature sensor 160 does not fall within the range specified in step S504, the first control unit 50 determines that the temperature of the power source 10 is abnormal (step S330). If a temperature abnormality of the power source 10 is detected in this manner, the first control unit 50 prohibits charging of the power source 10 (step S332). Prohibition of charging of the power source 10 can be achieved, for example, by opening the second switch 174. Also, discharging may be prohibited by opening the first switch 172 in addition to the second switch 174.

[0108] When quick charging or normal charging is started (steps S306 and S506), the first control unit 50 acquires or estimates a value related to the temperature of the power source 10 (step S308). In the example shown in Fig. 9, the temperature of the power source 10 itself is acquired or estimated. More specifically, the first control unit 50 acquires the output value (temperature) of the temperature sensor 160.

[0109] Next, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (step S310). This range preferably includes room temperature. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range of 15°C to 54°C. The output value of the temperature sensor 160 used in step S310 may be the one acquired in step S302. In this way, the process of step S308 can be omitted.

[0110] In step S310, if the output value of temperature sensor 160 is within the above range, first control unit 50 starts deterioration diagnosis of power supply 10 (step S320). In Fig. 9, SOH (State Of Health) is used as an example of deterioration diagnosis of power supply 10. Deterioration diagnosis of power supply 10 is as described above in steps S110 and S120.

[0111] The first control unit 50 determines whether the acquired or estimated SOH is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (step S322). If the acquired or estimated SOH is less than the predetermined threshold, the first control unit 50 determines that the power source 10 has deteriorated (step S324). In this case, the first control unit 50 stops charging the power source 10 and stores information that deterioration of the power source 10 has occurred in the memory (steps S326, S328). The stopping of charging the power source 10 can be achieved, for example, by opening the second switch 174. The first control unit 50 may also notify the user, via the notification unit 40, that an abnormality has occurred in the power source 10.

[0112] If the acquired or estimated SOH is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that the power source 10 is not degraded, and the process proceeds to step S314. If the output value of the temperature sensor 160 is not within the above range in step S310, the first control unit 50 proceeds to step S314 without diagnosing the degradation of the power source 10. In step S314, the first control unit 50 determines whether charging of the power source 10 is complete. The completion of charging can be detected by monitoring the magnitude of the charging current, etc. When the first control unit 50 determines that charging of the power source 10 is complete, it opens the second switch 174 to stop charging (step S316).

[0113] When the first control unit 50 determines that the charging of the power source 10 is not complete, it continues the charging and acquires the output value of the temperature sensor 160 again (step S308). Then, the first control unit 50 performs deterioration diagnosis of the power source 10 according to the output value of the temperature sensor 160 (steps S320 to S328). In this manner, it is preferable that the first control unit 50 repeats the deterioration diagnosis of the power source 10 according to the temperature of the power source 10 until the charging is completed. If the determination in step S314 is No (negative), the process of steps S308 to S322 may be performed only once in one sequence by repeating step S314. As another example, if the determination in step S314 is No (negative), the process may return to step S302 to determine again whether or not the power source 10 has a temperature abnormality.

[0114] (Range of temperature values ​​for each function) Next, the relationship between each function and temperature regarding the operation of the power supply 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0115] As described above, the first control unit 50 includes a step of executing a function of operating the power source 10 when the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a first range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit. Here, the function of operating the power source 10 includes at least one of discharging, charging, and deterioration diagnosis of the power source 10.

[0116] 8, the first control unit 50 executes the supply of power (discharge) from the power source 10 to the load 121R when the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within the first range. Discharge is a function that operates the power source 10 because the remaining capacity of the power source 10 decreases due to discharge.

[0117] 9, the first control unit 50 performs quick charging of the power source 10 when the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to another first range. Also, in steps S504 and S506 in Fig. 9, the first control unit 50 performs normal charging of the power source 10 when the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to another first range. Quick charging or charging increases the remaining capacity of the power source 10, so quick charging or charging is a function that operates the power source 10.

[0118] 8 and steps S310 and S320 in Fig. 9, the first control unit 50 executes a degradation diagnosis of the power supply 10 when the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to yet another first range. Since the control of the power supply 10 differs depending on the result of the degradation diagnosis, the degradation diagnosis is a function of operating the power supply 10.

[0119] Here, the operating temperature is usually determined for the power supply 10. Such an operating range may be an operating temperature (for example, a guaranteed operating range) that is determined in advance for the power supply (product) by the power supply manufacturer.

[0120] Furthermore, it is desirable for a power source 10 such as a secondary battery to be used in a temperature range that suppresses degradation of the power source 10, more specifically, in a temperature range in which the power source degrades due to only the same factors as at room temperature. For example, the power source 10 has degradation (specific degradation) that occurs due to conditions (low temperature or high temperature conditions) different from the normal conditions, in addition to degradation (normal degradation) that occurs under normal conditions. Therefore, it is preferable for the power source 10 to be used under conditions in which such specific degradation does not occur. Examples of specific degradation include electrolytic deposition that can occur at low temperatures and changes in the physical properties inside the power source that can occur at high temperatures. Details of these specific degradations will be described later.

[0121] Additionally, each of the functions described above that operate the power supply 10 may have a temperature range within which that function is operable.

[0122] From the above viewpoints, the temperature ranges specified in steps S104, S110, S304, S310, and S504 are usually determined based on a range of values ​​related to the temperature at which degradation of the power supply is suppressed, a range of values ​​related to the temperature at which the power supply 10 degrades due to only the same factors as at room temperature (temperature at which peculiar degradation does not occur), or a range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power supply (second range). Once the type of power supply 10 and the type of function to be executed are determined, such a second range can ideally be determined based on the true value related to the temperature of the power supply 10.

[0123] However, in this embodiment, the upper limit (first upper limit) or the lower limit (first lower limit) of the temperature range (first range) specified in steps S104, S110, S304, S310, and S504 is smaller or larger than the upper limit (second upper limit) or the lower limit (second lower limit) of the second range, which is a range of values ​​related to the temperature at which the deterioration of the power supply is suppressed, a range of values ​​related to the temperature at which the power supply 10 deteriorates due to only the same factors as at room temperature, or a range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power supply. In this specification, the first range is specified by the range to be actually compared with the output value of the sensor in the control flow. Hereinafter, the upper limit of the first range may be referred to as the "first upper limit" and the lower limit of the first range may be referred to as the "first lower limit". Similarly, the upper limit of the second range may be referred to as the "second upper limit" and the lower limit of the second range may be referred to as the "second lower limit".

[0124] The deviation between the first range and the second range is preferably determined due to the deviation between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10. For example, the output value of the temperature sensor 160 may include an error due to the accuracy of the temperature sensor 160. Examples of errors of the temperature sensor 160 include gain error, offset error, and hysteresis error. These errors may be obtained experimentally, or may be those described in a spec sheet or specification of the temperature sensor 160.

[0125] Furthermore, if the temperature sensor 160 is provided at a position away from the power source 10, the output value of the temperature sensor 160 may deviate from the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 due to heat loss from the power source 10 to the temperature sensor 160. Furthermore, if a heat source other than the power source 10 is present near the temperature sensor 160, the output value of the temperature sensor 160 may deviate from the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 due to the influence of heat from the heat source.

[0126] In this embodiment, the first upper limit or the first lower limit of the temperature range (first range) defined in steps S104, S110, S304, S310, and S504 may be made smaller or larger than the second upper limit or the second lower limit of the second range depending on the deviation between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10. In this way, by determining whether or not to execute each of the above functions based on the deviation between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10, the first control unit 50 can execute each function within an appropriate temperature range.

[0127] Here, the second upper limit of the second range may be defined by the upper limit of the operating temperature of the power source 10 (the recommended use temperature defined by the manufacturer). Alternatively, the second upper limit of the second range may be defined by the temperature at which a change in the structure or composition of the electrodes or electrolyte in the power source 10 occurs. For example, the second upper limit of the second range may be 60°C. The change in the structure or composition of the electrodes or electrolyte is an example of the specific deterioration described above. It should be noted that the second upper limit of the second range is not limited to 60°C, and may be selected from the range of preferably 40°C to 80°C, more preferably 50°C to 70°C, and even more preferably 55°C to 65°C, depending on the type of the power source 10, etc.

[0128] The first upper limit of the first range defined in steps S104, S110, S304, S310, and S504 is preferably smaller than the second upper limit of the second range. As a result, even if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 deviates from the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 in either a positive or negative direction, the first control unit 50 can execute the above function only when the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 is within the second range. As a result, deterioration of the power source 10 is suppressed even when the above function is executed, and there is an energy-saving effect that the power source 10 can be used for a long period of time without being replaced with a new one.

[0129] The difference between the second upper limit of the second range and the first upper limit of the first range may be about 6 to 10° C. Therefore, the first upper limit may be, for example, 50 to 54° C. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the first upper limit of the first range is the same for all of the functions of discharging, charging, and power supply degradation diagnosis. This is because, for all of the functions, it is preferable to avoid changes in the structure or composition of the electrodes or electrolyte in the power supply 10 under high temperature conditions.

[0130] The first upper limit of the first range may be different for each function. Because the degree of degradation of the power source is higher in charging than in discharging, the first upper limit of the first range at which normal charging or rapid charging is permitted may be lower than 54° C. Preferably, the second upper limit of the second range may be 45° C., so that the first upper limit of the first range at which normal charging or rapid charging is permitted may be 39° C.

[0131] The difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit is the same for all functions shown in Fig. 10. Alternatively, the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit may be the same for at least two functions. The difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit is preferably determined according to the difference (maximum difference) between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10. From this perspective, it is preferable that the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit is the same for each function.

[0132] Moreover, it is preferable that the first lower limit of the first range defined in steps S104, S110, S304, S310, and S504 is greater than the second lower limit. This allows the first control unit 50 to execute the above function only when the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 is within the second range, even if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 deviates from the true value of the temperature of the power source 10. This has the effect of saving energy, since deterioration of the power source 10 is suppressed even when the above function is executed, allowing the power source 10 to be used for a long period of time without replacing it with a new one.

[0133] 10, the first lower limit of the first range is different for each of the functions of discharging, charging, and power supply deterioration diagnosis. As a result, the first range for determining whether to execute each function is different for each function. This allows the first control unit 50 to determine whether to execute each function under optimal conditions for each function.

[0134] Here, in the discharge and charge functions of the power source, the second lower limit of the second range may be defined by the lower limit of the operating temperature of the power source 10 (the recommended operating temperature defined by the manufacturer).

[0135] Alternatively, in the discharge function of the power source, the second lower limit of the second range may be defined by a temperature at which electrolyte solidification may cause excessive internal resistance, for example, the second lower limit of the second range may be −10° C.

[0136] In addition, in the charging function of the power source, the second lower limit of the second range may be defined by the temperature at which a positive electrode material, such as lithium, can be deposited on the surface of the negative electrode by electrodeposition. In this case, for example, the second lower limit of the second range may be 0°C. In particular, electrodeposition is likely to occur when the power source is charged. Therefore, particularly in terms of the charging function, it is preferable that the second lower limit of the second range is 0°C.

[0137] In the normal charging function of the power source, the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit of the second range and the first lower limit of the first range may be about 6 to 10° C. That is, in the normal charging function of the power source, the first lower limit of the first range may be, for example, 6 to 10° C.

[0138] In addition, in the power supply degradation diagnosis function, the second lower limit of the second range is determined by the temperature range in which the power supply degradation diagnosis function can be executed. Specifically, the degradation of the power supply is diagnosed using a quantity such as SOH as described above. Here, the internal impedance of the power supply may affect the estimation of a quantity such as SOH. When the power supply 10 becomes cold, the internal impedance increases, so that a quantity such as SOH may not be accurately estimated at low temperatures. From this perspective, in the power supply degradation diagnosis function, the second lower limit of the second range may be set to, for example, 15°C. In addition, in the power supply degradation diagnosis function, the first lower limit of the first range may also be set to the same 15°C.

[0139] In charging the power source 10, particularly in the function of normal charging, it is preferable that the sign of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit is different from the sign of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit. That is, if the second upper limit is greater than the first upper limit, the second lower limit is smaller than the first lower limit. Conversely, if the second upper limit is smaller than the first upper limit, the second lower limit is greater than the first lower limit. Most preferably, the second upper limit is greater than the first upper limit, and the second lower limit is smaller than the first lower limit. As a result, even if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 deviates from the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 in both the positive and negative directions, the first control unit 50 can charge the power source 10 only when the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 is within the second range. As a result, even when the above function is executed, deterioration of the power source 10 is suppressed, and there is an energy-saving effect that the power source 10 can be used for a long time without being replaced with a new one.

[0140] At least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is preferably equal to or greater than the maximum error in the output value of temperature sensor 160 relative to the input value.

[0141] More preferably, at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is greater than or equal to the absolute value of the difference between the output value of temperature sensor 160 in the absence of error and the value corresponding to the true value of the temperature of power supply 10.

[0142] Furthermore, when the power source 10 and the temperature sensor 160 are separated from each other, it is preferable that at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is equal to or greater than the amount of change corresponding to the temperature change (heat loss) until the temperature of the power source 10 is transmitted to the temperature sensor 160 or to an electronic component incorporating the temperature sensor 160. This allows the first control unit 50 to appropriately take into account the difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 caused by heat loss and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10.

[0143] More preferably, at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is equal to or greater than the amount of change corresponding to the temperature change (heat loss) until the temperature of the power source 10 is transmitted to the temperature sensor 160 or the electronic component, or the absolute value of the difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 in the absence of error and the value corresponding to the true value of the temperature of the power source 10, added to the maximum value of the error in the output value relative to the input value of the temperature sensor 160. This allows the first control unit 50 to take into account both the difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 caused by the above-mentioned heat loss, and the difference from the true value caused by the error of the temperature sensor 160.

[0144] In the example shown in FIG. 10, in the functions of discharge, rapid charge, and power supply degradation diagnosis, the first lower limit of the first range is the same as the second lower limit of the second range. Instead, in at least one of the functions of discharge, rapid charge, and power supply degradation diagnosis, the first lower limit of the first range may be greater than the second lower limit of the second range, as in normal charge. In this case, the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit may be the same in at least two of the functions of discharge, normal charge, rapid charge, and power supply degradation diagnosis, and more preferably in all of the functions. Note that, when the absolute value of the difference between the first lower limit and the second lower limit is set to 6°C, as in normal charge, the first lower limit of discharge is -4°C, the first lower limit of rapid charge is 16°C, and the first lower limit of degradation diagnosis is 21°C.

[0145] In the above embodiment, the absolute value of the difference between the first lower limit and the second lower limit and the absolute value of the difference between the first upper limit and the second upper limit are the same value, but they may be different values.

[0146] [Second embodiment] (Power supply discharge control) Next, a control flow for discharging the power supply in the second embodiment will be described. In the following, the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0147] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a control flow in discharging the power source in the second embodiment. The control flow in discharging the power source in the second embodiment is generally similar to the control flow in the first embodiment (Fig. 8). However, in the second embodiment, the upper limit (first upper limit) of the first range defined in steps S104 and S110 is configured to be variable.

[0148] Specifically, the first control unit 50 acquires an operation request signal (step S100), acquires an output value of the temperature sensor 160 (step S102), and then acquires a parameter that generates a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 (step S103a).The control unit 50 then calculates a difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 from the acquired parameter (step S103b).

[0149] Next, the first control unit 50 adjusts the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit based on the calculated difference ε. Specifically, the first control unit 50 reduces the first upper limit used in the first embodiment by the calculated difference ε. Then, in step S104, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a new first range that takes into account the difference ε (step S104). In this way, the first control unit 50 makes the first range, which is used to determine whether to discharge the power source 10, variable depending on the situation.

[0150] Similarly, before diagnosing the deterioration of the power supply 10 (step S120), the first control unit 50 may obtain a parameter that generates a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10 (step S109a), and calculate a difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10 from the obtained parameter (step S109b). In this case, the first control unit 50 determines in step S110 whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a new first range that takes the difference ε into consideration. In this way, the first control unit 50 may vary the first range for determining whether to perform a deterioration diagnosis of the power supply 10 depending on the situation.

[0151] Here, the difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 may be due to, for example, the amount of heat lost while heat is transmitted from the power source 10 to the temperature sensor 160. Furthermore, if there is another heat source near the temperature sensor 160, the difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 may be due to the influence of heat that the other heat source has on the temperature sensor 160.

[0152] In one example, the parameter that causes a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 may be the temperature itself acquired by the temperature sensor 160. It is considered that the higher the temperature of the power source 10, the higher the amount of heat lost in the process of being transmitted from the power source 10 to the temperature sensor 160. In this way, the difference ε that can occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 may vary depending on the temperature of the temperature sensor 160. Therefore, in this case, the first control unit 50 may adjust the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit based on the output value of the temperature sensor 160.

[0153] In another example, the parameter that causes a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 may be the amount of calculations per given time of the control unit 50. The greater the amount of calculations per given time of the control unit 50, the greater the amount of heat generated by the control unit 50. If the temperature sensor 160 is provided near the control unit 50 or inside the control unit 50, the output value of the temperature sensor 160 is affected by the heat generated by the control unit 50. Therefore, the difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 may vary depending on the amount of calculations per given time of the control unit 50. Therefore, in this case, the first control unit 50 may adjust the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit based on the amount of calculations per given time of the control unit 50.

[0154] The amount of calculations per given time of the control unit 50 may be calculated, for example, from the amount or usage rate of the calculation resources of the control unit 50. As another example, the amount of calculations per given time of the control unit 50 may be calculated from the content or number of functions controlled by the control unit 50.

[0155] 11, the control unit 50 is configured to vary only the upper limit of the first range and adjust the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit. Alternatively, the control unit 50 may be configured to vary at least one of the upper limit and lower limit of the first range and adjust at least one of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit. As to which of the upper limit and the lower limit of the first range is adjusted and the amount of adjustment, a parameter that generates a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 and the relationship between the output value and the true value may be appropriately set in advance through experiments.

[0156] As described above, by varying the first range depending on the usage environment and usage situation, the first control unit 50 can execute the function of operating the power source 10 under more appropriate conditions.

[0157] (Power supply charging control) Next, a control flow for charging the power source in the second embodiment will be described. In the following, the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0158] Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a control flow for charging a power source in the second embodiment. The control flow for charging a power source in the second embodiment is generally similar to the control flow (Fig. 9) in the first embodiment. However, in the second embodiment, the first upper limit of the first range defined in steps S304 and S310 and the first lower limit of the first range defined in step S504 are configured to be variable.

[0159] Specifically, before steps S304 and S310, the control unit 50 acquires parameters that create a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 (steps S303a and S309a), and calculates a difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power source 10 from the acquired parameters (steps S303b and S309b).

[0160] Next, the first control unit 50 adjusts the first upper limit of the first range in steps S304 and S310 based on the calculated difference ε. Specifically, the first control unit 50 reduces the first upper limit by the calculated difference ε. Then, in steps S304 and S310, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to the new first range that takes into account the difference ε.

[0161] Similarly, the control unit 50 adjusts the first lower limit of the first range in step S504 based on the calculated difference ε. Specifically, the first control unit 50 increases the first lower limit by the calculated difference ε. Then, in step S504, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to the new first range that takes into account the difference ε.

[0162] In this way, the first control unit 50 varies the first range for determining whether to charge the power source 10 or diagnose deterioration of the power source depending on the situation. By varying the first range depending on the usage environment and usage situation, the first control unit 50 can execute the function of operating the power source 10 under more appropriate conditions.

[0163] The parameter that generates a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10, and the difference ε are as explained in the description of the discharge control of the power supply.

[0164] [Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0165] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an electric circuit of a power supply unit and a charging unit in the third embodiment. Fig. 14 is a block diagram of the charging unit. The power supply unit 110 may have the same configuration as in the first embodiment.

[0166] The power supply unit 110 is configured to be connectable to the charging unit 200. When the charging unit 200 is connected to the power supply unit 110, the charging unit 200 is electrically connected to the power source 10 of the power supply unit 110. The charging unit 200 may include a current sensor 230, a voltage sensor 240, a second control unit 250, and a second temperature sensor 260.

[0167] The charging unit 200 is electrically connected to the power supply unit 110 through a pair of connection terminals 211t. The pair of electrical terminals of the power supply unit 110 for electrically connecting the charging unit 200 may be the same as the pair of electrical terminals 111t of the power supply unit 110 for electrically connecting the load 121R. Alternatively, the pair of electrical terminals of the power supply unit 110 for electrically connecting the charging unit 200 may be provided separately from the pair of electrical terminals 111t.

[0168] When the external power source 210 is an AC power source, the charging unit 200 may have an inverter (AC / DC converter) that converts AC to DC. The current sensor 230 is a sensor that acquires the value of the charging current supplied from the charging unit 200 to the power source 10. The voltage sensor 240 is a sensor that acquires the voltage between a pair of electric terminals of the charging unit 200. In other words, the voltage sensor 240 acquires the potential difference applied between a pair of connection terminals 111t of the power source unit.

[0169] The second control unit 250 is configured to control charging to the power source 10. The second control unit 250 may control charging to the power source 10 by using output values ​​from the second temperature sensor 260, the current sensor 230, and / or the voltage sensor 240. Note that the charging unit 200 may further include a voltage sensor that acquires a DC voltage output by the inverter, and a DC / DC converter that can step up and / or step down the DC voltage output by the inverter or the external power source 210.

[0170] The charging unit 200 may include a conversion unit 290 capable of converting and outputting the voltage or current of the input power. The second control unit 250 is configured to be able to adjust the value of the voltage or current output by the conversion unit 290 by operating the conversion unit 290. This allows the second control unit 250 to adjust the charging current for charging the power source 10.

[0171] Therefore, in the third embodiment, the second control unit 250 of the charging unit 200 is responsible for switching between rapid charging and normal charging. Meanwhile, the first control unit 50 of the power supply unit 110 can select whether or not to charge by opening and closing the second switch 174. That is, even if the charging unit 200 is connected to the power supply unit 110, the first control unit 50 can temporarily or permanently stop charging of the power supply 10 by the second switch 174.

[0172] (Power supply charging control) FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a control flow on the charging unit side in charging the power source in the third embodiment.

[0173] The second control unit 250 of the charging unit determines whether or not it is connected to the power supply unit 110 (step S600). The second control unit 250 waits until it is connected to the power supply unit 110.

[0174] When connected to the power supply unit 110, the second control unit 250 acquires or estimates a value related to the temperature of the power supply 10 (step S602). The value related to the temperature of the power supply 10 may be the temperature of the power supply 10. In this case, the second control unit 250 may estimate the temperature of the power supply 10 from the output value of the second temperature sensor 260.

[0175] Next, the second control unit 250 determines whether the output value of the second temperature sensor 260 belongs to a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (step S604). This range preferably includes room temperature. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the second control unit 250 determines whether the output value of the second temperature sensor 260 belongs to a range of 15°C to 54°C.

[0176] If the output value of the second temperature sensor 260 is within the above range, the second control unit 250 starts rapid charging (step S606). Specifically, the second control unit 250 supplies a current to the power supply unit 110 at a charging rate corresponding to rapid charging.

[0177] In step S604, if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 does not fall within a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit, the second control unit 250 starts normal charging (step S607). Specifically, the second control unit 250 supplies a current to the power supply unit 110 at a charging rate equivalent to normal charging.

[0178] When the second control unit 250 determines that the charging is completed, it stops the supply of current (step S614). For example, the second control unit 250 may determine that the charging is completed when the charging current becomes equal to or lower than the charging completion current during the constant voltage charging.

[0179] 16 is a diagram showing a control flow on the power supply unit side in charging a power supply in the third embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the first control unit 50 of the power supply unit 110 determines whether a charging unit is connected to the power supply unit 110 (step S300). The first control unit 50 waits until the charging unit 200 is connected to the power supply unit 110.

[0180] When the charging unit 200 is connected, the first control unit 50, similar to the first embodiment, acquires the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 belongs to a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (steps S302, S304).

[0181] When the output value of the temperature sensor 160 is within the above range, the first control unit 50 closes the second switch 174 (step S704). This allows the charging current from the charging unit 200 to reach the power source 10.

[0182] In step S304, if the output value of temperature sensor 160 does not fall within a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit, first control unit 50 determines that there is an abnormal temperature of power source 10 (step S330). When an abnormal temperature of power source 10 is detected in this manner, first control unit 50 prohibits charging of power source 10 (step S332). Prohibition of charging of power source 10 can be achieved, for example, by opening second switch 174.

[0183] When quick charging or normal charging is started, the first control unit 50 acquires or estimates a value related to the temperature of the power source 10, and performs deterioration diagnosis of the power source as necessary (steps S308, S310, S320, S322, S324, S326, S328). These steps are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0184] In this embodiment, when the first control unit 50 determines that charging of the power source is completed, it opens the second switch 174. This prevents the charging current from the charging unit from reaching the power source 10.

[0185] As described above, in this embodiment, the first control unit 50 of the power supply unit 110 and the second control unit 250 of the charging unit 200 jointly execute the charging function. Even in this case, the first control unit 50 and / or the second control unit 250 may be configured to execute the function of operating the power supply when the output value of the temperature sensor 160, 260 belongs to a first range having at least one of a first upper limit and a first lower limit. In this case, the first upper limit or the first lower limit of the first range may be smaller or larger than the range of values ​​related to the temperature at which the function can be executed, the range of values ​​related to the temperature at which deterioration of the power supply is suppressed, the range of values ​​related to the temperature at which the power supply deteriorates only due to the same factors as at room temperature, or the second upper limit or the second lower limit of the second range which is the range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power supply. That is, the upper limit and / or the lower limit of the temperature range in step S604 of FIG. 15 and steps S304 and S310 of FIG. 16 may be set as described in the above-mentioned column "Range of values ​​related to temperature for each function".

[0186] In the third embodiment, the upper and / or lower limits of the temperature range in step S604 in FIG. 15 and steps S304 and S310 in FIG. 16 may be configured to be variable as described in the second embodiment.

[0187] (Programs and storage media) Any of the above-mentioned control flows, more specifically, the control flows described in Figs. 8, 9, 11, 12, 15, and 16, can be executed by the first control unit 50 or the second control unit 250. That is, the first control unit 50 or the second control unit 250 may have a program that causes a computer mounted on a device such as an aerosol generating device, a power supply unit, or a charging unit to execute the above-mentioned method. Such a program may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium may be, for example, a non-transitory medium.

[0188] [Other embodiments] Although the present invention has been described by the above-mentioned embodiment, the description and drawings forming a part of this disclosure should not be understood as limiting the present invention. From this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples and operating techniques will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0189] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 includes both an aerosol source that generates an aerosol and a flavor source that includes a tobacco raw material or an extract derived from a tobacco raw material that generates a flavor component. Alternatively, the aerosol generating device 100 may include only one of the aerosol source and the flavor source.

[0190] In the above-described aerosol generating device, the power supply unit 110 and the atomization unit 120 are configured to be separable from each other. Alternatively, the power supply unit 110 and the atomization unit 120 may be configured as an inseparable unit.

[0191] In the above-described embodiment, the temperature of the power source 10 itself was used as the value related to the temperature of the power source 10. Therefore, the sensor that outputs the value related to the temperature was the temperature sensor 160, 260. Instead, the value related to the temperature may be a physical quantity different from the temperature, for example, a physical quantity that can be converted to temperature. The physical quantity that can be converted to temperature may be, for example, the electrical resistance value of a resistor (provided near the power source) or the voltage drop (potential difference) across the resistor. In this case, the sensor that outputs the value related to the temperature of the power source may be a sensor that measures the electrical resistance value of an electrical resistor provided near the power source, or a voltage sensor that measures the voltage drop across an electrical resistor.

Claims

[Claim 1] A sensor that outputs a value related to the temperature of a lithium ion secondary battery that is a power source that can be charged and discharged to a load that atomizes the aerosol source; a controller configured to perform one or more functions to operate the power source when an output value of the sensor is within a first range having a first upper limit and a first lower limit; the first upper limit is smaller than a second upper limit of a second range having a second upper limit and a second lower limit, the second range being a range of values ​​related to the temperature of the power supply at which the one or more functions can be executed, a range of values ​​related to the temperature of the power supply in which deterioration of the power supply is suppressed, a range of values ​​related to the temperature of the power supply in which the power supply deteriorates only due to the same factors as at room temperature, or a range corresponding to an operating temperature of the power supply, and the first lower limit is equal to or greater than the second lower limit; at least one of an absolute value of a difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit and an absolute value of a difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is equal to or greater than a maximum value of an error in an output value of the sensor with respect to an input value of the sensor, The control unit is configured to be able to execute a plurality of the functions, The first range is different for each of the functions. A control unit for an aerosol generating device.

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