Charger used together with incombustible aerosol supply device

Abstract

To provide a charger used together with an incombustible aerosol supply device.SOLUTION: A charger (200) comprises: a first power source (210); a first device (202) that supplies electric power to an incombustible aerosol supply device (100); and a second device (204) that receives the electric power from an external power source. In a first operation mode, the charger supplies the electric power to one or more aerosol generators of the incombustible aerosol supply device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a charging device for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars that generate tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Some examples are devices that generate aerosol / vapor with a tobacco flavor and / or air infused with a fragrance. Most of these devices include an internal battery that supplies energy to various components of the device, such as a heating element and a control circuit. As these devices become more sophisticated, the requirements for the internal battery are increasing.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present invention, a first power source, a first device that supplies power to a non-flammable aerosol supply device, a second device that receives power from an external power source, and in a first operating mode, there is provided a charging device configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of a non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0004] This charging device is preferably portable. According to one embodiment, this charging device includes a portable charging device.

[0005] According to one embodiment, in the first operating mode, the first power source is configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of a non-flammable aerosol supply device. According to various embodiments, in the first operating mode, it is also conceivable that the non-flammable aerosol supply device receives power from the battery of the portable charging case during use, rather than from an external power source.

[0006] Embodiments are also conceivable in which the non-flammable aerosol supply device receives power from the battery of a charging case (or another portable electronic device such as a mobile phone or smartphone) via a wired or wireless connection. Less preferable embodiments are also conceivable in which the non-flammable aerosol supply device receives power from an external power source (for example, the power grid) via a wireless connection.

[0007] In the first operation mode, this charging device may be configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol supply device so that the one or more aerosol generators generate an aerosol from one or more aerosol-forming materials.

[0008] The first device may be configured to supply power to the non-flammable aerosol supply device via (i) a wired connection and / or (ii) a wireless connection.

[0009] The second device may be configured to receive power from an external power source via (i) a wired connection and / or (ii) a wireless connection.

[0010] This charging device and / or the non-flammable aerosol supply device may be configured to detect the possibility that the non-flammable aerosol supply device is mechanically coupled to the charging device, held within the charging device, or inserted into or within the charging device in another manner.

[0011] This charging device and / or the non-flammable aerosol supply device may be configured to detect that the non-flammable aerosol supply device is electrically coupled to the charging device.

[0012] This charging device may further include a third device that receives a signal from the non-flammable aerosol supply device, where the non-flammable aerosol supply device is (i) mechanically coupled to the charging device, held within the charging device, or inserted into or within the charging device in another manner, and / or (ii) electrically coupled to the charging device.

[0013] In a second operating mode, this charging device may be configured to supply power to a second power source housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device. The second power source may include a rechargeable battery.

[0014] In a first operating mode, this charging device may be further configured to supply power to a first power source and / or a second power source housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device. In the first operating mode, this charging device may be configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol supply device while simultaneously supplying power to the first power source and / or the second power source housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0015] In a certain operating mode, power may be diverted from the supply to one or more aerosol generators and supplied for recharging the first power source and / or the second power source housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0016] Preferably, one or more indicators indicating the charge state of the first rechargeable battery and / or the second power source housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device may be arranged.

[0017] Preferably, the one or more indicators include one or more light-emitting diodes.

[0018] This charging device preferably includes a portable carrying case for storing the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0019] According to another aspect, a charging device as described above, a non-flammable aerosol supply device, and a system including the same are provided. The non-flammable aerosol supply device may be mechanically and / or electrically coupled to the charging device during use.

[0020] This system may further include one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally, one or more aerosol-forming materials are inserted into the non-flammable aerosol supply device or held in another manner during use.

[0021] According to another aspect, providing a charging device coupled to a non-flammable aerosol supply device comprising one or more aerosol generators; supplying power from the charging device to the one or more aerosol generators; and a method including the same are provided.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, it is preferable that the one or more aerosol generators generate aerosol at substantially the same timing as power is supplied from the charging device to the one or more aerosol generators.

[0023] Thus, it will be apparent that a preferred feature of the present invention is the provision of a non-flammable aerosol supply device such as a tobacco heating product, which may be charged and operated in real time by power supplied from a carry case or a charging case.

[0024] Conventionally, in order to generate aerosol by the operation of a non-flammable aerosol supply device, charging is first required. However, according to various embodiments of the present invention, the non-flammable aerosol supply device can operate without delay by power supply via an associated charging case.

[0025] According to another aspect, Comprising a charging device and / or a non-flammable aerosol supply device, There is provided an apparatus in which the charging device and / or the non-flammable aerosol supply device further comprises a fixing or holding mechanism for fixing or holding the non-flammable aerosol supply device to the charging device.

[0026] The fixing or holding mechanism may include one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials.

[0027] The charging device may include one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials.

[0028] The non-flammable aerosol supply device may include one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials.

[0029] For example, embodiments are also contemplated in which the charging device includes one or more magnets and a part of the non-flammable aerosol supply device includes one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials that are magnetically attached to the one or more magnets of the charging device.

[0030] Also contemplated are embodiments in which a part of the non-flammable aerosol supply device includes one or more magnets and the charging device includes one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials that are magnetically attached to the one or more magnets of the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0031] The charging device may include a portable carrying case for storing the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0032] This apparatus may further comprise one or more aerosol-forming materials or aerosol-generating materials, and optionally, one or more aerosol-forming materials or aerosol-generating materials are inserted into the non-flammable aerosol supply device or held in some other manner during use.

[0033] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming material" or "aerosol-generating material" refers to a material that can generate an aerosol when supplied with energy, for example, by heating, irradiation, or any other method. The aerosol-forming material or aerosol-generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain an active substance and / or a flavorant. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material or aerosol-generating material may include an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material capable of retaining some fluid such as a liquid inside. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may include, for example, from approximately 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% to approximately 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of an amorphous solid. The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0034] According to another aspect, a charging device, and a non-flammable aerosol supply device, are provided, and a system is provided in which the charging device and / or the non-flammable aerosol supply device further comprises a fixing or holding mechanism for fixing or holding the non-flammable aerosol supply device to the charging device.

[0035] The fixing or holding mechanism may include one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials.

[0036] According to another aspect, a step of providing a charging device and a non-flammable aerosol supply device, and a step of fixing or holding the non-flammable aerosol supply device to the charging device, are provided.

[0037] The step of fixing or holding the non-flammable aerosol supply device to the charging device may further include using one or more magnets to fix or hold the non-flammable aerosol supply device to the charging device.

[0038] However, it is not essential to use a magnet to fix the non-flammable aerosol supply device to the charging device. For example, other embodiments are conceivable in which a latch mechanism is used to fix the non-flammable aerosol supply device to the charging device.

[0039] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, which is shown by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0040]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10A

Figure 10B

[0041] FIG. 1 is a simplified schematic view of a non-combustible aerosol supply device 100.

[0042] According to the present disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply device is one in which the aerosol-forming material is not combusted in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user. In other words, a non-combustible aerosol supply device supplies an aerosol without combustion of the aerosol-forming material or the aerosol-generating material.

[0043] In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply device is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or an electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement. In such examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply device vaporizes the aerosol-forming material or the aerosol-generating material in liquid form.

[0044] In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply device is an aerosol-generating material heating device, also known as a non-combustion heating device, a tobacco heating device, etc., as described above. In such examples, the aerosol-generating material does not have to be in liquid form.

[0045] In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply device is a hybrid device that generates an aerosol by a combination of aerosol-forming materials. In some such examples, one or more of the aerosol-forming materials may be adapted to be heated. Each aerosol-forming material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, wax, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some examples, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-forming material and a solid aerosol-forming material. The solid aerosol-forming material may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0046] The non-combustible aerosol supply device 100 comprises a housing 101 that houses various components of the non-combustible aerosol supply device 100. The non-combustible aerosol supply device 100 comprises a chamber 102 configured to receive or contain an aerosol-forming material (not shown). The aerosol-forming material may be included in a consumable (not shown).

[0047] As used herein, the term "aerosol - generating material" refers to a material that can generate an aerosol when supplied with energy, for example, by heating, irradiation, or any other method. The aerosol - generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, a liquid, or a gel, and may or may not contain an active substance and / or a flavorant. In some embodiments, the aerosol - generating material may contain an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non - fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material capable of retaining some fluid, such as a liquid, inside. In some embodiments, the aerosol - generating material may contain, for example, from approximately 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% to approximately 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of an amorphous solid. The aerosol - generating material may contain one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol - forming materials, and optionally, one or more other functional materials.

[0048] The aerosol - forming material or the aerosol - generating material may include, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, extended tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol - generating material may be a combination or mixture of materials. The aerosol - generating material may contain one or more active substances and / or fragrances, one or more aerosol - forming materials, and optionally, one or more other functional materials. Also, the aerosol - generating material may be known as a "smoking material".

[0049] The active substance used in this specification may be a physiologically active material (a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological reaction). The active substance may be selected, for example, from nutraceuticals, psychotropic drugs, and psychoactive agents. The active substance may be naturally occurring or may be synthetically obtained. The active substance may contain, for example, vitamins such as nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, B6, B12, or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or their constituent substances, derivatives, or combinations. The active substance may contain one or more constituent substances, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or another plant.

[0050] In some examples, the active substance contains nicotine. In some examples, the active substance contains caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0051] The aerosol-forming material may contain one or more constituent substances capable of forming an aerosol. In some examples, the aerosol-forming material may contain one or more of glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl sulfate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0052] One or more other functional materials may contain one or more of a pH adjuster, a colorant, a preservative, a binder, a filler, a stabilizer, and / or an antioxidant.

[0053] As used herein, a consumable is an article that contains an aerosol-forming material or consists of an aerosol-forming material, and part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by the user. The consumable may comprise one or more other components such as an aerosol-forming material storage area, an aerosol-forming material transfer component, an aerosol-forming area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Further, the consumable may comprise an aerosol generator such as a heater that releases heat during use to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming material. The heater may include, for example, a combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0054] The non-combustible aerosol supply device 100 comprises an aerosol generator 104 for volatilizing at least one component of the aerosolizable material. Hereinafter, the non-combustible aerosol supply device 100 is referred to as device 100.

[0055] As used herein, an aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-forming material by applying thermal energy to the aerosol-forming material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to apply one or more of vibration, high pressure, or electrostatic energy to the aerosol-forming material.

[0056] In an example where the aerosol generator 104 is a heater, it may be, for example, a resistive heater or an inductive heater. When an inductive heater is used, the inductive heater generates a varying magnetic field to heat one or more susceptor elements. In such an example, the one or more susceptor elements may or may not form part of the aerosol generator 104.

[0057] The susceptor material is a material that can be heated by the intrusion of a fluctuating magnetic field such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor material may be a conductive material so that inductive heating of the heating material occurs due to the intrusion of the fluctuating magnetic field. The susceptor material may be a magnetic material so that magnetic hysteresis heating of the susceptor material occurs due to the intrusion of the fluctuating magnetic field. The susceptor may have both characteristics so that it can be heated by both the conductive and magnetic heating mechanisms.

[0058] Device 100 includes a power source 106 disposed within housing 101. Power source 106 supplies power to various components of device 100 including aerosol generator 104. Power source 106 may comprise a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium ion battery). Rechargeable battery 106 may comprise a plurality of sub - batteries. In the following examples, power source 106 is simply referred to as battery 106. Alternatively, power source 106 may comprise a capacitive charging device.

[0059] In the example of FIG. 1, device 100 includes a control circuit 108 in data communication with a computer - readable storage memory 110. Control circuit 108 is configured to control various aspects and operations of device 100. For example, control circuit 108 may control the delivery of power from battery 106 to aerosol generator 104. In some examples, control circuit 108 comprises a microprocessor and associated circuitry that controls the functions of device 100.

[0060] In the example of FIG. 1, device 100 includes an electrical connection port 112 that is in electrical communication with a control circuit 108 and a battery 106. Among several functions, in particular, the electrical connection port 112 facilitates charging of the battery 106 from an external power source (not shown) (e.g., a battery charger or a mains power supply). In some examples, the electrical connection port 112 is an industry-standard electrical connection port such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB), USB Type-C, Micro USB, etc., and in other examples, the electrical connection port 112 is a proprietary or custom connector configuration. Also, the electrical connection port 112 may be in the form of a wireless receiver that enables wireless charging of the battery 106.

[0061] Of course, device 100 includes other components not shown in FIG. 1, such as a ventilation inlet / outlet and a control interface. Note that FIG. 1 is only a schematic diagram showing the number of components that may be included in device 100. FIG. 1 is not intended to clarify the specific positions of the various components.

[0062] FIGS. 2-4 are simplified schematic diagrams of a charging device 200 to which various combinations of devices according to a first example are connected. The charging device 200 includes a housing 201 that encloses and protects various components of the charging device 200, including an internal battery 210. The internal battery 210 is a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery). The internal battery 210 may include a plurality of sub-batteries.

[0063] As will be described in more detail below, the charging device 200 can supply power to the battery 106 of the device 100 by connecting to the device 100. When the device 100 is connected to the charging device 200 and the charging device 200 itself is not connected to an external power source (e.g., a mains power supply), power for recharging the battery 106 of the device 100 is supplied from the internal battery 210 of the charging device 200.

[0064] The charging device 200 can also be connected to an external power source 206 (e.g., a power grid power source). When the charging device 200 is connected to the external power source 206 while not being connected to the device 100, if the internal battery 210 requires recharging, the external power source supplies power to charge the internal battery 210 of the charging device 200.

[0065] When the charging device 200 is connected to the external power source 206 and the device 100, it is configured to prioritize directing the power from the external power source 206 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100 rather than directing the power from the external power source 206 to charge the internal battery 210 of the charging device 200.

[0066] In this example, the charging device 200 is in the form of a portable carrying case that can be used to store and charge the device 100 when the user of the device 100 is on the move. In effect, this increases the battery life of the device 100 without increasing the size / weight of the device 100. This is because the user can use the device 100 just by taking it out of the carrying case. Hereinafter, the charging device 200 is referred to as the charging case 200.

[0067] As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the charging case 200 includes a first connection port 202 for connecting to the connection port 112 of the device 100. This connection may be a direct port-to-port connection via a suitably arranged connection cable or a wireless connection. In some examples, the first connection port 202 is a custom (i.e., proprietary) connection port. For example, the first connection port 202 may include two pins (e.g., ground and +5V). The advantage of the custom connection port 202 is that only a specific compatible device with a corresponding custom connection port can be removably connected to the charging case 200. For example, other proprietary devices manufactured by the manufacturer of the charging case 200.

[0068] The charging case 200 is configured to be able to transmit power from the charging case 200 or power via the charging case 200 to the device 100 via the first connection port 202. The power transmitted from the charging case 200 charges the battery 106 of the device 100.

[0069] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the charging case 200 includes a second connection port 204 for connecting to an external power source 206. This connection may similarly be a direct port - to - port connection via a suitably arranged connection cable or a wireless connection. The second connection port 204 is disposed within the housing 201 of the charging case 200 and provides a second electrical and / or data connection to the charging case 200. In this example, the second connection port 204 is an industry - standard electrical connection port (e.g., a USB connection port). This enables various types of power sources and / or various types of other devices to be removably connectable to the charging case 200. Of course, other examples of custom - made electrical connection sockets or other power - transmission configurations can also be used.

[0070] In some examples, the external power source 206 is connected to the power grid power via a wall outlet and supplies power via a cable connected to the second connection port 204. For example, such a power source can be a charger attached to the charging case 200 or another common USB charger connected to the power grid. In an alternative example, the external power source 206 is a power source from another device (e.g., a computer, a vehicle (vehicle power output socket), a solar panel, etc. connected to the second connection port 204 via a cable or wirelessly).

[0071] The second connection port 204 is electrically connected to the first connection port 202 through the control circuit 208. Therefore, the power supplied from the external power source 206 is transmitted to the device 100 via the second connection port 204, the control circuit 208, and the first connection port 202, as represented by the arrow 214 in FIG. 4. Examples of the control circuit 208 will be described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0072] The internal battery 210 of the charging case stores the power supplied from the external power source 206 and is configured to fully charge the device 100 multiple times (for example, at least twice). The internal battery 210 is electrically connected to the first connection port 202 and the second connection port 204 through the control circuit 208. The internal battery 210 can be charged by the external power source 206 when the external power source 206 is connected to the second connection port 204.

[0073] As described above, the flow of power from the external power source 206 to the internal battery 210 and the device 100 is controlled by the control circuit 208. In the example of FIG. 2, since only the device 100 is connected to the charging case 200, when the battery 106 of the device 100 needs to be charged, power is directed from the internal battery 210 to the device 100 through the first connection port 202 (indicated by arrow 212).

[0074] In the example of FIG. 3, only the external power source 206 is connected to the charging case 200. Therefore, when the internal battery 210 needs to be charged, the control circuit 208 directs the power from the external power source 206 to charge the internal battery 210 (indicated by arrow 216).

[0075] (As best seen in FIG. 4) When both the external power source 206 and the device 100 are connected to the charging case 200 and both the battery 106 of the device 100 and the internal battery 210 of the charging case 200 need to be charged, the control circuit 208 gives priority to directing the power from the external power source 206 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100 rather than directing the power from the external power source 206 to charge the internal battery 210.

[0076] In one example, while the battery 106 of the device 100 is being charged, the control circuit 208 will charge the internal battery 210 of the charging case 200 by the supply of power from the external power source 206 only if sufficient surplus power can be obtained from the external power source 206.

[0077] In another example, the control circuit 208 starts supplying power from the external power source 206 to charge the internal battery 210 of the charging case 200 only when the battery 106 of the device 100 is fully charged.

[0078] Naturally, the charging case 200 may include other components not shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, such as an input detector, a charge state indicator, and a switch. Further, the control unit 208 may include other components such as a processor, a sensor, and a voltage adjustment circuit. Note that FIGS. 2 to 4 are merely schematic diagrams showing the number of components that can be included in or connected to the charging case 200. FIGS. 2 to 4 are not intended to clarify the specific positions of various components.

[0079] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the charging case 200 in more detail as described with respect to FIGS. 2 to 4. In FIG. 5, solid arrows represent power lines between various internal components of the charging case 200, and dashed arrows represent control and / or monitoring lines. As described above, the charging case 200 includes a first connection port 202, a second connection port 204, a control circuit 208 (shown as a dashed box in FIG. 5), and an internal battery 210.

[0080] In this example, the charging case 200 further includes a first electrostatic discharge protection unit 230 and a second electrostatic discharge protection unit 238. The first electrostatic discharge unit 230 protects the first connection port 202 from electrostatic discharge and is disposed between the first connection port 202 and the control circuit 208. The second electrostatic discharge unit 238 protects the second connection port 204 from electrostatic discharge and is disposed between the second connection port 204 and the control circuit 208. Also, the charging case 200 includes one or more indicators 250 for indicating the charge state and / or other information of the internal battery 210 to the user of the charging case 200.

[0081] In some examples, one or more indicators 250 are a set of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) electrically connected to the control circuit 208 via the control line 288. The LEDs are used to indicate the charge state of the internal battery 210 (e.g., whether the internal battery 210 is fully charged, partially charged, or fully discharged). In one example, one or more indicators 250 comprise a single RGB LED, and different colors indicate different charge states of the internal battery 210. In another example, one or more indicators 250 comprise a plurality of single-color LEDs (e.g., white LEDs), and the number of LEDs switched on indicates the charge state of the internal battery 210. In another example, one or more indicators 250 indicate not only the charge state but also that the internal battery 210 is being charged. Of course, other indicators such as a screen, an LCD display, a speaker, etc. can equally well be used to indicate the charge state of the charging case 200.

[0082] In this example, the control circuit 208 is represented by a dashed box 209 surrounding various components. The control circuit 208 includes a microcontroller unit (MCU) 224 (e.g., model STM32G031G4). The MCU 224 monitors whether the device is connected to the charging case 200 and whether the first connection port 202 and the second connection port 204 are valid by monitoring the first connection port 202 via the monitoring line 270 and the second connection port 204 via the monitoring line 272. Since different external power supplies supply different voltage levels, the MCU 224 monitors the voltage level on the monitoring line 272 of the power supply or device connected to the second connection port 204. The voltage of the internal battery 210 is monitored by the MCU 224 on the monitoring line 290.

[0083] The control circuit 208 further includes an input voltage protection unit 240 for protecting the internal components of the charging case 200 from overvoltage and / or reverse voltage conditions. In one example, the charging case 200 is capable of handling a +20V supply from a USB Type-C power source without damaging the internal components, and the input protection unit 240 protects the charging case 200 when a non-compliant USB Type-C charger is connected. The control circuit 208 further includes an output voltage protection unit 228 for protecting the components of the device 100 from overcurrent conditions when connected to the first connection port 202.

[0084] The control circuit 208 further includes a low dropout voltage regulator (LDO) 242 for maintaining a constant voltage supply.

[0085] The control circuit 208 further includes a charging integrated circuit 226 (charging IC). The charging IC 226 adjusts the charging of the internal battery 210 when the power supply is connected to the second connection port 204 and the internal battery 210 is being charged under the control of the MCU 224. Also, the charging IC 226 adjusts the charging of the battery 106 of the device 100 when the device 100 is connected to the first connection port 202 and is being charged by the internal battery 210 under the control of the MCU 224. The charging IC 226 is connected to the MCU 224 via a suitable control line 280 (e.g., an I2C link).

[0086] The charging IC 226 monitors the temperature of the internal battery 210 via a battery temperature monitoring line 278 connected to the battery temperature sensor 252. The internal battery 210 is protected from overcharging by the battery protection unit 232. In one example, the battery temperature sensor 252 is in thermal contact with the internal battery 210 to provide an accurate temperature measurement of the internal battery 210. For example, when the internal battery 210 starts to reach a temperature considered too high during charging of the internal battery 210, the charging IC 226 will accordingly suppress the current supply to the internal battery 210. Alternatively, when the temperature of the internal battery 210 is considered too high when using the internal battery 210 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100 connected to the first electrical connection port 202, the charging IC 226 will accordingly suppress the current or stop the charging to prevent damage to the internal battery 210. Also, the charging IC 226 may adjust the power supply to and from the internal battery 210 when the temperature of the internal battery 210 is too low or below a specific threshold temperature.

[0087] The control circuit 208 further includes a first switch 220 and a second switch 222. The MCU 224 controls the first switch 220 via a first switch control line 274 and controls the second switch 222 via a second switch control line 276. As will be described in more detail below, the MCU 224 directs power between the first connection port 202, the second connection port 204, and the internal battery 210 by controlling the first switch 220 and the second switch 222 to be in on or off states in various combinations. In one example, the first switch 220 and the second switch 222 are low-resistance field-effect transistors (FETs), but other types of switches may be used.

[0088] Regarding the configuration shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, with reference to the components described in FIG. 5, the operation of the charging case 200 will be described in detail below.

[0089] In one example, as shown in FIG. 2, only the device 100 is connected to the charging case 200, and the battery 106 of the device 100 is being charged. In this scenario, the MCU 224 detects, via the monitoring line 272, that the device 100 is connected to the charging case 200 through the first connection port 202, and determines, via the monitoring line 270, that there is no fact that a power source or another device is connected to the charging case 200 through the second connection port 204. The MCU 224 sets the first switch 220 to the off state via the switch control line 274, and sets the second switch 222 to the on state via the switch control line 276. Therefore, with such a configured switch, power is supplied from the internal battery 210 through the charging IC 226 and the first connection port 202 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100. No power flows through the second connection port 204.

[0090] As described above, the charging IC 226 monitors the temperature of the internal battery 210 and adjusts the output voltage to the first connection port 202 to prevent damage to the internal battery 210 due to overheating and / or safety risks to the user.

[0091] In another example, as shown in FIG. 3, only the external power supply 206 is connected to the charging device 200 via the second connection port 204, and the internal battery 210 is being charged. In this configuration, the MCU 224 detects, via the monitoring line 270, that the external power supply 206 is connected to the second connection port 204, and determines from the monitoring line 272 that the device 100 is not connected to the charging case 200 through the first connection port 202. The MCU 224 sets the first switch 220 to the on state and the second switch 222 to the off state via the switch control lines 274 and 276, respectively. When the first switch 220 and the second switch 222 are set in this way and the internal battery is being charged, the power from the external power supply 206 is supplied to the internal battery 210 via the charging IC 226 to charge the internal battery 210. The internal battery 210 is protected from overcharging by the battery protection unit 232, and the temperature of the battery is monitored during charging by the temperature sensor 252. No power flows through the first connection port 202.

[0092] In another example, as shown in FIG. 4, both the device 100 and the external power supply 206 are connected to the charging case 200 via the first connection port 202 and the second connection port 204, respectively. The MCU 224 detects, via the monitoring line 272, that the device 100 is connected to the first connection port 202, and detects, via the monitoring line 270, that the external power supply 206 is connected to the second connection port 204. The power from the external power supply 206 can be supplied to the internal battery 210, the battery 106 of the device 100, or both.

[0093] The MCU 224 prioritizes charging the battery 106 of the device 100 over charging the internal battery 210 of the charging case 200.

[0094] In one example, the MCU 224 determines that the battery 106 of the device 100 is being charged, the internal battery 210 is also being charged, but the power obtained from the external power supply 206 is only sufficient to meet the charging requirements of the battery 106 of the device 100. For example, the battery 106 of the device 100 may require a certain minimum supply voltage (e.g., 5V) for charging, and the external power supply 206 can supply 5V. In this scenario, the MCU 224 sets both the first switch 220 and the second switch 222 to the on state via the switch control lines 274 and 276, respectively. The charging IC 226 prevents the supply of power from the power supply 206 to the internal battery 210 under the control of the MCU 224. Therefore, in this scenario, power is supplied to the device 100 from the external power supply 206 through the path defined by the second connection port 204, the first switch 220, the second switch 222, and the first connection port 202 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100.

[0095] The MCU 224 determines the timing when the battery 106 of the device 100 reaches a predetermined charging level (e.g., full charge) and power supply is no longer required by monitoring the charging state of the battery 106 of the device 100. In response to this determination, the MCU 224 sets the second switch 222 to the off state while maintaining the first switch 220 in the on state. The charging IC 226 thereby enables the supply of power from the power supply 106 to the internal battery 210 under the control of the MCU 224. The voltage of the internal battery 210 is monitored by the MCU 224 on the monitoring line 290.

[0096] By prioritizing the charging of the battery 106 of the device 100 over the internal battery 210, a scenario where the internal battery 210 is charged but the device 100 is not charged is prevented. When the user connects the charging case 200 to the external power source 206 to charge its internal battery 210 and then connects the device 100 to the charging case 200 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100, the MCU 224 detects that the device 100 is currently connected and that the charging of its battery 106 is necessary. In response, as described above, the MCU 224 sets the first switch 220 and the second switch 222 to the on state, and the charging IC 226 prevents the power supply to the internal battery 210. In this way, the power from the external power source 206 is directed to the battery 106 of the device 100 instead of the internal battery 210 of the charging case 200.

[0097] In another example, the MCU 224 determines that the device 100 and the internal battery 210 are being charged and that the power obtained from the external power source 206 is sufficient to simultaneously meet the charging requirements of the battery 106 of the device 100 and the internal battery 210. For example, while the external power source 206 can supply 20V, the battery of the device 100 only requires a supply voltage of 5V for charging. Similarly, in this scenario, the MCU 224 sets both the first switch 220 and the second switch 222 to the on state via the switch control lines 274 and 276, respectively. However, the charging IC 226 enables the power supply from the power source 206 to the internal battery 210 under the control of the MCU 224. Therefore, the battery 106 of the device 100 and the internal battery 210 are simultaneously charged by the external power source 206. The MCU 224 and the charging IC 226 monitor the voltage of the internal battery 210 via the monitoring line 290 to prevent overload and at the same time maintain the charging current of the internal battery 210 as large as possible to minimize the charging time.

[0098] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the internal components of the charging case 300 according to the second example. For simplicity, components that are the same as or equivalent to the components of the charging case 200 described above with reference to FIG. 5 have reference numbers that are 100 greater than the same reference numbers used in FIG. 5.

[0099] In this example, the charging case 300 includes a device detection unit 392 configured to detect the timing when a device such as the device 100 is connected to the first connection port 302. An example of the device detection unit 392 will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 7.

[0100] The MCU 324 is connected to the second connection port 304 via the monitoring line 383, and by using the monitoring line 383, it detects that a device or an external power source is connected to the second connection port 304.

[0101] The MCU 324 is connected to the first connection port 302 via the data line 385, and by using the data line 385, when the device 100 is connected to the first connection port 302, it receives data from the device 100 or transmits data to the device 100.

[0102] The charging case 300 includes an input protection unit 399 for protecting the charging IC 326.

[0103] Also, the charging case 300 includes a fuel gauge 394 in series with the electrical connection portion 396 between the internal battery 310 and the charging IC 326. The fuel gauge 394 measures the charge state of the internal battery 310.

[0104] In this example, the control circuit 308 includes a first switch 320, a second switch 322, and a third switch 398 controlled by the MCU 324 via the switch control line 374a (although there is a control line for each switch, only one line is shown in FIG. 6 for simplicity).

[0105] In the first example, the device 100 is connected to the first connection port 302 of the charging case 300, the battery 106 of the device 100 is being charged, and the second connection port 304 is not used (i.e., not active). In this scenario, the MCU 324 detects that the device 100 is connected to the charging case 300 by the device detection unit 392, and determines that the second connection port 304 is not in use via the monitoring line 383 and / or the monitoring line 372. The MCU 324 sets both the first switch 320 and the second switch 322 to the off state, and sets the third switch 398 to the on state. With such a switch setting, the power stored in the internal battery 310 is supplied via the charging IC 326 and the first connection port 302 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100. No power flows through the second connection port 304.

[0106] In the second example, an external power source 206 is connected to the charging case 300 via the second connection port 304, the internal battery 310 is being charged, and the first connection port 302 is not used. In this scenario, the MCU 324 detects that the external power source 206 is connected to the second connection port 304 via the monitoring line 383 and / or the monitoring line 372, and detects by the device detection unit 392 that the device 100 is not connected to the charging case 300. The MCU 324 sets the first switch 320 to the on state and sets both the second switch 322 and the third switch 398 to the off state. With such a switch setting, power is supplied from the external power source 206 via the charging IC 326 to charge the internal battery 310.

[0107] In the third example, a non-power device 400 (a schematic example of which is shown in FIG. 7) is connected to the charging case 300 via the second connection port 304. The non-power device 400 includes its own internal battery 401 and a connection port 402 similar to the above-described connection port that enables connection to the second connection port 304.

[0108] The non-power device may be, for example, a camera, a mobile phone, a GPS device, or the like.

[0109] In this example, the first connection port 302 is not used. In this scenario, when the MCU 324 detects via the monitoring line 383 and / or the monitoring line 372 that the non-power device 400 is connected to the second connection port 304, and the device detection unit 392 detects that the device 100 is not connected to the charging case 300, the MCU 324 sets the first switch 320 to the on state and the second switch 322 and the third switch 398 to the off state. With such a switch setting, power is supplied from the internal battery 310 via the charging IC 326 to charge the internal battery 401 of the non-power device 400.

[0110] In the fourth example, both the device 100 and the non-power device 400 are connected to the charging case 300 via the first connection port 302 and the second connection port 304, respectively. The MCU 324 detects via the device detection unit 392 that the device 100 is connected to the first connection port 302 and detects via the monitoring line 383 and / or the monitoring line 372 that the non-power device 400 is connected to the second connection port 304.

[0111] The MCU 324 prioritizes charging the battery 106 of the device 100 over charging the battery 401 of the non-power device 400.

[0112] In this example, the MCU 324 sets the first switch 320 and the second switch 322 to the off state and sets the third switch 398 to the on state. Therefore, power is supplied from the internal battery 310 via a path including the charging IC 326, the third switch 322, and the first connection port 302 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100.

[0113] The MCU 324 determines the timing when the battery 106 of the device 100 reaches a predetermined charge level (e.g., full charge) and power supply is no longer required by monitoring the charge state of the battery 106 of the device 100. In response to this determination, the MCU 324 sets the first switch 320 to the on state, the third switch 398 to the off state, and maintains the second switch 322 in the off state. With such switch settings, power is supplied from the internal battery 310 through a path including the charging IC 326, the first switch 320, and the second connection port 304 to charge the battery 401 of the non-power device 400.

[0114] In some examples, when sufficient power can be obtained from the internal battery 310, the batteries 401 of the non-power device 400 and 106 of the device 100 will be charged simultaneously. That is, the battery 106 of the device 100 is charged to full capacity, and the internal battery 310 can additionally supply power for charging the battery 401 of the device 400.

[0115] In the fifth example, both the device 100 and the external power supply 206 are connected to the charging case 300 through the first connection port 302 and the second connection port 304 respectively. The MCU 324 detects that the device 100 is connected to the first connection port 202 by the device detection unit 392, and detects that the external power supply 206 is connected to the second connection port 304 through the monitoring line 383 and / or the monitoring line 370.

[0116] The MCU 324 prioritizes charging the battery 106 of the device 100 over charging the internal battery 310.

[0117] In a certain scenario, the MCU 324 determines that while the battery 106 of the device 100 is being charged and the internal battery 310 is also being charged, the power obtained from the external power supply 206 is only sufficient to meet the charging requirements of the battery 106 of the device 100. For example, although the battery 106 of the device 100 may require a certain minimum supply voltage (e.g., 5V) for charging, the external power supply 206 can only supply 5V. In this scenario, the MCU 324 sets the first switch 320 and the third switch 398 to the off state and sets the second switch 322 to the on state. Therefore, in this scenario, power is supplied from the external power supply 206 through a path including the second connection port 304, the second switch 322, and the first connection port 302 to charge the battery 106 of the device 100.

[0118] By monitoring the charging state of the battery 106 of the device 100, the MCU 324 determines the timing when the battery 106 of the device 100 reaches a predetermined charging level (e.g., full charge) and power supply is no longer required. In response to this determination, the MCU 324 sets the first switch 320 to the on state, the second switch 322 to the off state, while maintaining the third switch 398 in the off state. With such a switch setting, power is supplied from the external power supply 206 to charge the internal battery 310. No power is supplied to the device 100.

[0119] In an alternative scenario, the MCU 324 determines that the battery of the device 100 and the internal battery 310 are being charged and the power obtained from the external power supply 206 is sufficient to simultaneously meet the charging requirements of both. In this scenario, the MCU 324 sets both the first switch 320 and the second switch 322 to the on state and sets the third switch 398 to the off state. With such a switch setting, power is supplied from the external power supply 206 to simultaneously charge the internal battery 310 and the battery 106 of the device 100.

[0120] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the MCU 324 and the device detection unit 392 (represented by a dashed box) of the charging case 300 and the device 100 as described above. The dashed line 401 represents the interface between the charging case 300 and the device 100 when the device 100 is connected to the charging case 300.

[0121] The MCU 324 includes a voltage output pin VO and a voltage detection pin VD. The device detection unit 392 includes a resistor 402, a diode 404, and a first contact 401a and a second contact 401b. The first end of the resistor 402 is connected to the voltage output pin VO, and the second end of the resistor 402 is connected to the voltage detection pin VD and the anode of the diode 404. The cathode of the diode 404 is connected to the first contact 401a. The second contact 401b is connected to the ground.

[0122] The device 100 includes a third electrical contact 401c and a fourth electrical contact 401d and a resistor 406 connected between the third electrical contact 401c and the fourth electrical contact 401d.

[0123] When the device 100 is connected to the charging case 300, the first electrical contact 401a contacts the third electrical contact 401c, and the second electrical contact 401b contacts the fourth electrical contact 401d.

[0124] During use, the voltage output pin VO of the MCU 324 outputs a low fixed voltage, and the MCU 324 monitors the detected voltage level at the detection pin VD.

[0125] When the device 100 is connected to the charging case 300, since the resistor 402 and the resistor 406 form a potential divider, the voltage level at the detection pin VD drops to a predetermined detection voltage, which is detected by the MCU 324.

[0126] When the device 100 is connected to the charging case, the voltage drop detected by the MCU 324 will be determined by the resistances of the two resistors 402 and 406. Therefore, by knowing the two resistances, the MCU can identify whether the device 100 is connected or whether a different non - compatible device is connected. Thus, it is also conceivable that when a non - compatible device with different internal resistances / resistors is connected, the MCU 324 can identify this and prevent the +5V supply 408.

[0127] The charging case 300 may be provided with an alternative configuration (e.g., a hall or mechanical switch) for detecting the timing when the device 100 is connected.

[0128] In the above example, the first electrical connection ports 202 and 302 are custom two - pin connection ports. Alternatively, the first electrical connection ports 202, 302 may be standard pin connection ports (e.g., USB Type - C or micro - USB, etc.). In the above example, the first connection ports 202, 302 and the second connection ports 204, 304 were described as pin connectors. Of course, alternative connection ports may be used for power and / or data transmission to the device. For example, there are wireless connection ports, wireless charging systems, etc.

[0129] FIG. 9 shows a charging case or carry case 500 and a non - combustible aerosol supply device 501 according to an embodiment of the present invention. According to one embodiment, a carry case 500 having a battery charging pack is provided. The battery charging pack has an opening or slot for receiving and charging the non - combustible aerosol supply device 501. According to one embodiment, the non - combustible aerosol supply device 501 may include an aerosol - generating material heating device, also known as a non - combustion heating device, a tobacco heating device, etc., as described above. In such an example, the aerosol - generating material may not be in liquid form.

[0130] In some examples, the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 is a hybrid device that generates an aerosol by a combination of aerosol generating materials 502. In some such examples, one or more of the aerosol generating materials 502 may be adapted to be heated. Each of the aerosol generating materials 502 may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, wax, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some examples, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material 502 may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0131] The aerosol supply device 501 is configured to receive a replaceable article 502 (or consumable) that contains an aerosol generating material and to generate an aerosol or a drawable medium from the material that the user of the device draws.

[0132] The device 501 further includes a mouthpiece 503 that engages with the housing of the body of the device 501 at its first end. The mouthpiece 503 includes a first end (i.e., the distal end) that forms a substantially flat surface adjacent to the first end of the body. The mouthpiece 503 extends from the first end to a second end (i.e., the proximal end) that is configured for the user to hold and draw an aerosol.

[0133] FIG. 10A is an exploded perspective view of an aerosol supply device 602 that generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating material 604. The aerosol supply device 602 is configured to receive a replaceable article 604 (or consumable) that contains an aerosol generating material and to generate an aerosol or a drawable medium from the material that the user of the device draws.

[0134] The aerosol supply device 602 includes a main body 606 having a housing 608 (or an outer cover) that surrounds and houses various components of the device 602 therein. The device 602 includes a chamber 610 within the housing 608 for receiving an article 604 into the device 602. The main body 606 has a first end 612 that may have a substantially flat or planar surface as shown. Since the first end 612 is closest to the user during use of the device, it may also be referred to as the proximal end. The main body 606 further includes a second end (i.e., the distal end) 614.

[0135] An opening 616 that connects the chamber 610 to the outside of the housing 608 is formed in the housing 608 at the first end 612 of the main body 606. Through the opening 616 at the first end 612, the article 604 may be inserted into the chamber 610. The chamber 610 is sized and shaped to receive the article 604 in a slip fit. The chamber 610 may have a shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) corresponding to the article 604 to be targeted, and may also be sized to have a cross-sectional area slightly larger than that of the article 604 in order to receive and hold the article 604 in a slip fit.

[0136] In the inserted state, only a part of the article 604 is received in the chamber 610. That is, a part of the article 604 protrudes through the opening 616 from the chamber 610 and extends outwardly of the housing 608 in a direction away from the first end 612 of the main body 606.

[0137] The device 602 further includes a heating system (not shown) within the housing 608 of the main body 606 that is in thermal communication with the chamber 610 to heat the article 604 to generate a suctionable medium. The heating system may include a coil inductor that surrounds the steel material in the chamber 610 and is powered by a battery disposed within the housing 608.

[0138] Device 602 further includes a mouthpiece 618 that engages with the housing 608 of the main body 606 at its first end 612. The mouthpiece 618 includes a first end (i.e., the distal end) that forms a substantially flat surface adjacent to the first end 612 of the main body 606. The mouthpiece 618 extends from the first end to a second end (i.e., the proximal end) configured for the user to hold and inhale the aerosol.

[0139] The mouthpiece 618 of the illustrated embodiment can be completely removed from and repositioned by the user with respect to the housing 608. When the mouthpiece 618 of the device 602 is removed from the first end 612 of the main body 606, it cannot be attached to any part of the main body 606 or its housing 608. When the mouthpiece 618 is repositioned on the main body 606, it can be re-engaged with the housing 608 at the first end 612 of the main body 606.

[0140] In other embodiments, the mouthpiece 618 may be partially removable by the user from the main body 606. When the mouthpiece 618 of the device 602 is partially removed from the first end 612 of the main body 606, it is held partially attached to the main body 606, for example, by a hinge attached to the housing 608 and the mouthpiece 618. The mouthpiece 618 may then be completely disengaged from the first end 612 of the main body 606 by the user.

[0141] The mouthpiece 618 includes a passage extending from a first opening at the first distal end to a second opening at the second proximal end. When the mouthpiece 618 is engaged with the first end 612 of the main body 606 and a part of the article 604 is received in the chamber 610 of the housing 608, the other part of the article 604, i.e., the protrusion, is received in the passage of the mouthpiece 618 through the first opening at the first distal end.

[0142] The passageway defines an inner wall that defines the boundary of the passageway. When the mouthpiece 618 is engaged with the first end 612 of the body 606, the article 604 contacts the inner wall of the passageway and forms a seal with the inner wall. The article 604 may form a sealing contact portion that completely defines the boundary of the passageway by contacting the inner wall substantially around the entire circumference of the inner wall. The engagement between the article 604 and the inner wall may seal part or all of the passageway and limit or prevent the free passage of aerosol or air in the portion of the passageway beyond the sealing contact portion.

[0143] The sealing contact portion may be formed by the shape and size of the passageway with respect to the article 604. The passageway may have a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the article 604 so as to receive the article 604. For example, both the passageway and the article 604 may have a circular cross-section, thereby forming a cylindrical shape. The cross-sectional size of the passageway may be slightly smaller than the cross-sectional size of the article 604, and the article 604 may be press-fitted against the inner wall of the passageway to form the sealing contact portion as described above.

[0144] The cross-section of the passageway may vary along the length between the distal end opening and the proximal end opening. The passageway may include a first portion of a first cross-section (i.e., the distal portion) and a second portion of a second cross-section (i.e., the proximal portion), and the area of the first cross-section is larger than the area of the second cross-section. The first portion of the passageway extends from the distal end opening along the entire length of the passageway to a transition point in the middle. The second portion extends from the transition point to the proximal end opening.

[0145] The first portion of the passageway may be configured to receive the article 604 such that the inner wall of the first portion contacts the article 604 as described above. For this reason, the first portion of the passageway may be sized to form a sealing contact portion by having a cross-sectional size slightly smaller than the cross-sectional size of the article 604. The second portion is sized smaller than the first portion so that the article 604 does not extend through the entire passageway to the second proximal end of the mouthpiece 618.

[0146] Device 602 includes attachment means for removably attaching the mouthpiece 618 to the housing 608. The attachment means generates a force that supports the mouthpiece 618 on the housing 608 at the first end 612 of the main body 606 and the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618. By supporting the mouthpiece 618 on the housing 608 of the device main body 606, the attachment means helps to form a contact portion and thus a sealed contact portion between the inner wall of the mouthpiece passage and the article 604.

[0147] In an embodiment, the attachment means may include magnets. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment means includes a plurality of magnets. The plurality of illustrated magnets includes a plurality of magnets disposed in or on the housing 608 at the first end 612 of the main body 606 and a plurality of magnets disposed at the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618. These two sets of a plurality of magnets may be arranged to adhere to each other by having opposite polarities, and at the first end 612 of the main body 606, the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618 is supported on the housing 608.

[0148] The magnets are recessed at the first end 612 of the main body 606 and the distal end of the mouthpiece 618, respectively, such that the housing 608 of the main body 606 and the mouthpiece 618 can form a flat contact portion along their respective surfaces. In other embodiments, one or more magnets or steel materials may be disposed under the surface of the housing 608 at the first end 612 of the main body 606 and under the surface of the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618, and may be covered by the surface and thus difficult to see. The magnets will also attach and integrate the mouthpiece 618 and the housing 608 in this case.

[0149] The plurality of magnets at the first distal end of the mouthpiece are arranged in a ring around the first opening formed therein. Similarly, the plurality of magnets of the housing 608 at the first end 612 of the device body 606 are arranged in a ring around the opening to the chamber 610. The plurality of magnets of the housing 608 and the mouthpiece 618 are arranged corresponding to each other such that when the mouthpiece 618 is engaged with the housing 608, the position of each magnet of the housing 608 coincides with each magnet of the mouthpiece 618. In the illustrated embodiment, four magnets are disposed at each of the first end 612 of the device body 606 and the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618.

[0150] In other embodiments, only one of the housing 608 of the mouthpiece 618 or the body 606 may include one or more magnets. In such an embodiment, the other of the housing 608 or the mouthpiece 618 includes a region of steel material at the first end 612 of the body 606 or the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618 to engage with the other magnet. The region of steel material may include a strip of steel material recessed at the first end 612 of the body 606 or the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618. Alternatively, it is also possible to include steel material on substantially the entire surface of the first end 612 of the body 606 or the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618.

[0151] Other attachment means are also conceivable within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the housing 608 and the mouthpiece 618 can also be supported by a screwing connection by each including male and female screw connection portions.

[0152] In use, the user removes the mouthpiece 618 from the housing 608 of the device 602 to expose the first end 612 and the opening of the chamber 610. The user inserts the article 604 into the chamber 610 through this opening. Thereafter, the user relocates the mouthpiece 618 onto the housing 608 at the first end 612 of the body 606. Thereby, through the first opening formed at the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618, the protrusion of the article 604 is received within the passage of the mouthpiece 618, and at the first end 612 of the body 606, the first distal end of the mouthpiece 618 is supported by the housing 608 by attachment means. The article 604 forms a sealing contact portion with the inner surface of the passage of the mouthpiece 618 as described above.

[0153] Thereafter, the user may turn on the device 602 or otherwise activate the heating system of the device 602. The heating system in thermal communication with the chamber 610 heats the portion of the article 604 disposed within the chamber 610. The heating of the article 604 generates an aerosol as described above. The aerosol passes upward through the article 604 and enters the passage of the mouthpiece 618 beyond the proximal sealing contact portion. Due to the sealing contact portion, instead of the aerosol returning downward through the mouthpiece passage to the first distal end, the aerosol is directed towards the second proximal end and the second opening of the mouthpiece 618, enabling the user to aspirate the aerosol.

[0154] When the user has finished using or the session of the device 602, the mouthpiece 618 can be removed from the housing 608 again, and the article 604 can be removed from the chamber 610 and discarded. Thus, the device 602 is ready to receive another article 604 for subsequent use.

[0155] In an embodiment where only a portion of the mouthpiece 618 is removable from the housing 608, it is to be understood that the step of removing the mouthpiece 618 as described above may include exposing the chamber 610 by a partial removal of the mouthpiece 618.

[0156] By directly receiving the consumable 604 into the mouthpiece 618, the device 602 can provide a compact aerosol generation solution. The contact between the article 604 and the mouthpiece 618 provides a direction for the generated aerosol towards the user, improving the user experience. By using the mouthpiece 618, the consumable and the user are separated, suppressing undesirable phenomena such as "hot puff", so the user experience can be further improved.

[0157] In one embodiment, the device 602 may include second attachment means for attaching the mouthpiece 618 to the housing 608 at a location on the body 606 other than the first end 612 of the body 606. For example, the second attachment means may be disposed on the side surface of the body 606, in or on the housing 608.

[0158] Also, in an embodiment where the attachment means includes one or more magnets, the second attachment means may include one or more magnets or regions of steel material disposed in or on the housing 608. Thus, according to one or more magnets or steel materials disposed in the housing 608 and constituting part of the attachment means, the mouthpiece 618 can be attached to the housing 608 at a location away from the first end 612 of the body 606.

[0159] During use, after the user removes the mouthpiece 618 from the housing 608 at the first end 612 of the body 606, the user may use the second attachment means to hold the mouthpiece 618 to the housing 608 before inserting the article 604 into the chamber 610. In this way, the second attachment means provides a convenient configuration for holding the mouthpiece 618 while the user is preparing the device 602 for use.

[0160] In addition, the device 602 may include a button or a switch and be equipped with an input interface that operates the device 602 when pressed. For example, the user may turn on the device 602 by operating the input interface. The input interface may be formed as a part of the housing 608. According to the input interface, the user can activate the heating system as described above.

[0161] Further, the device 602 may include an electrical connector / component such as a socket / port that can receive a cable and charge the battery of the device 602 disposed in the main body 606. For example, the socket may be a charging port such as a USB charging port. In some examples, the socket may be used for data transfer between the device 602 and another device such as a computer device as an addition or alternative to the above. The socket may be disposed in the housing 608.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 9 again, according to a preferred embodiment, it is preferable to provide a charging device 500 having a first power source (not shown). The first power source includes, for example, a rechargeable battery provided in the main body of the charging device 500.

[0163] The charging device 500 preferably includes a first device (e.g., an electrical port) that supplies power to the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501. According to a preferred embodiment, the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 includes a tobacco heating product device.

[0164] The charging device 500 preferably includes a second device (e.g., an electrical port) that receives power from an external power source (e.g., a power grid).

[0165] In the first operation mode, the charging device 500 is preferably configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501. As described above, one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 include one or more induction heaters or resistance heaters.

[0166] The charging device 500 is preferably portable. According to one embodiment, the charging device 500 includes a portable charging device.

[0167] According to one embodiment, in the first operation mode, the first power source (for example, a rechargeable battery housed in the charging device 500) is preferably configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501. According to various embodiments, in the first operation mode, it is also conceivable that the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 receives power from the battery of the portable charging case 500 instead of from an external power source during use.

[0168] In the first operation mode, this charging device may be configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol supply device and at the same time supply power to the first power source (for example, a rechargeable battery housed in the charging device 500) and / or a second power source housed in the non-flammable aerosol supply device (for example, a rechargeable battery housed in the non-flammable aerosol supply device). In some examples, simultaneous charging of one or both of the battery of the portable charging case 500 and the battery of the non-flammable aerosol supply device will be performed in parallel with the supply of power to one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol supply device when sufficient power is obtained from an external power source.

[0169] In particular, it is considered that the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 (for example, a tobacco heating product device) may be configured to operate while being housed in the charging case 500. The non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may be housed in the charging case 500 and may be configured to operate in a state where a second power source (for example, a rechargeable battery of the non-flammable aerosol supply device) is charged by the charging case 500. The non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may be housed in the charging case 500 and may be configured to operate in a state where a first power source (for example, a rechargeable battery of the charging case 500) is charged by an external power source. The non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may be housed in the charging case 500 and may be configured to operate in a state where both the first and second power sources are charged. In this case, the second power source may receive power from the first power source, and the first power source may receive power from the external power source, or both the first power source and the second power source may receive power from the external power source.

[0170] The non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 is considered to include a pen-type device and may be provided with a power source such as a relatively small rechargeable battery.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may have a battery that allows the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 to be used twice. Further, the carry case 500 may be such that the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 can be used 20 times, and in total between charges, the device can be used 22 times with the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 and the carry case 500.

[0172] According to one embodiment, the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may have a battery that enables the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 to be used six times. Further, the carry case 500 may be such that the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 can be used 15 times, and in total between charges, the device can be used 21 times with the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 and the carry case 500.

[0173] According to one embodiment, the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may have a battery that enables the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 to be used about 30 times.

[0174] Aerosol-generating articles for aerosol-generating devices (such as tobacco heating products) typically contain more moisture and / or aerosol-forming agent than combustible smoking articles, facilitating the formation of aerosol during use. When the content of moisture and / or aerosol-forming agent is high in this way, the risk of condensate collection in the aerosol-generating device during use can be increased, particularly at locations remote from the (one or more) heating units. This problem can be more pronounced in devices with an enclosed heating chamber, particularly devices with an external heater, than in devices with an internal heater (such as a "blade" heater). Without being bound by theory, it is thought that a larger proportion / surface area of the aerosol-forming material is heated by the external heating assembly, resulting in more aerosol being released than in a device that internally heats the aerosol-forming material 501 and more aerosol condensing within the device. It has been found to be advantageous to employ a programmed heating profile in a device 501 configured to supply a desired amount of aerosol to the user while keeping the amount of aerosol condensing inside the device 501 low. For example, the maximum operating temperature of the heating unit can affect the amount of condensate formed. It is thought that the lower the maximum operating temperature, the less undesirable condensate is formed. Also, the difference between the maximum operating temperatures of the heating units of the heating assembly can affect the amount of condensate formed. Further, the point in time during a use session at which each heating unit reaches its maximum operating temperature can affect the amount of condensate formed.

[0175] In some embodiments, the device 501 is operable in at least a first (e.g., base) mode and a second (e.g., boost) mode.

[0176] The heating assembly may be operable in up to two modes, or may be operable in three or more modes, such as three modes, four modes, or five modes.

[0177] Each mode may be associated with a heating profile predefined for each heating unit of the heating assembly, such as a programmed heating profile. One or more of the programmed heating profiles may be programmed by the user. As an addition or alternative to this, one or more of the programmed heating profiles may be programmed by the manufacturer. In these examples, one or more of the programmed heating profiles may be fixed so that the end user cannot change the one or more programmed heating profiles.

[0178] The operating mode may be selectable by the user. For example, the user may select the desired operating mode by interacting with the user interface. Preferably, power supply to the first heating unit is started substantially simultaneously with the selection of the desired operating mode.

[0179] Each mode may be associated with a temperature profile different from the temperature profiles of other modes. Further, different times when the device is ready for use may be associated with one or more modes. For example, the heating assembly may be configured such that in a first mode, the device 501 is ready for use after a first time from the start of the use session, and in a second mode, the device 501 is ready for use after a second time from the start of the use session. The first time may be different from the second time. The second time associated with the second mode is preferably shorter than the first time associated with the second mode.

[0180] In some examples, the heating assembly is configured such that the device is ready for use within 30 seconds, 25 seconds, 20 seconds, or 15 seconds of power being supplied to the first heating unit when operating in the first mode. Also, the heating assembly may be configured such that the device is ready for use in a shorter time (within 25 seconds, 20 seconds, 15 seconds, or 10 seconds of power being supplied to the first heating unit when operating in the second mode) when operating in the second operating mode. The heating assembly is preferably configured such that the device is ready for use within 20 seconds of power being supplied to the first heating unit when operating in the first mode and within 10 seconds of power being supplied to the second heating unit when operating in the second mode. Also, it is convenient that the second mode of the present embodiment can be associated with the first and / or second heating units having a higher maximum operating temperature during use.

[0181] In a particular preferred embodiment, the device 501 is configured such that an indicator indicates that the device is ready for use within 20 seconds of selection of the first (e.g., base) mode and within 10 seconds of selection of the second (e.g., boost) mode.

[0182] Providing a heating assembly operable in a plurality of modes (e.g., a base mode and a boost mode) in an aerosol-generating device 501 such as a tobacco heating product is advantageous as it gives consumers more choices, especially when each mode is associated with a different maximum heating temperature. Further, such a device 501 can supply various aerosols with different characteristics. This is because the volatile components in the aerosol-generating material have different evaporation rates and concentrations at different heating temperatures. Thereby, the user can select a specific mode based on the desired characteristics of the aerosol to be inhaled, such as the degree of tobacco flavor, nicotine concentration, and aerosol temperature. For example, in a mode where the device is ready for use more rapidly (e.g., a second mode, i.e., a "boost" mode), an increase in the provision of a more rapid first puff, an increase in the nicotine content per puff, or an increase in the flavor concentration per puff may occur. Conversely, in a mode where the device is ready for use in the second half of the session (e.g., a first mode, i.e., a base mode), an extension of the overall use session, a decrease in the nicotine content per puff, and an extension of the flavor delivery may occur.

[0183] In embodiments where the device 501 is ready for use more rapidly in the second (e.g., boost) mode and / or where the maximum operating temperature of the first and / or second heating units is higher in the second mode, the second mode may be referred to as the "boost" mode. It is preferred that an aerosol-generating device 501 operable in a first "normal" mode and a second "boost" mode be provided. The "boost" mode is advantageous as an increase in the provision of a more rapid first puff, an increase in the nicotine content per puff, or an increase in the flavor concentration per puff may occur.

[0184] The device 501 may comprise up to two heating units. In other examples, the device 501 may comprise three or more independently controllable heating units, such as three, four, or five independently controllable heating units.

[0185] An embodiment is also conceivable in which the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 receives power from the battery of the charging case 500 (or another portable electronic device such as a mobile phone or smartphone) via a wired or wireless connection. An embodiment that is less preferable is also conceivable in which the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 receives power from an external power source (for example, the power grid) via a wireless connection.

[0186] In the first operation mode, this charging device may be configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 so that the one or more aerosol generators generate an aerosol from one or more aerosol-forming materials.

[0187] The first device may be configured to supply power to the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 via (i) a wired connection and / or (ii) a wireless connection.

[0188] The second device may be configured to receive power from an external power source via (i) a wired connection and / or (ii) a wireless connection.

[0189] This charging device and / or the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may be configured to detect the possibility that the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 is mechanically coupled to the charging device 500, held within the charging device 500, or inserted into the charging device 500 or within the charging device 500 in another manner.

[0190] The charging device 500 and / or the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may be configured to detect the possibility that the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 is electrically coupled to the charging device 500.

[0191] The charging device 500 may further include a third device that receives a signal from the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501, where the non-flammable aerosol supply device is (i) mechanically coupled to the charging device 500, held within the charging device 500, or inserted into the charging device 500 or within the charging device 500 in another manner, and / or (ii) electrically coupled to the charging device 500.

[0192] In the second operating mode, the charging device 500 may be configured to supply power to a second power source housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501.

[0193] In the first operating mode, the charging device 500 may be further configured to supply power to a first power source and / or a second power source housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501.

[0194] In an operating mode, power may be diverted from the supply to one or more aerosol generators and supplied for recharging the first power source and / or the second power source housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501.

[0195] One or more indicators (not shown) indicating the charge state of the first power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery within the carry case 500) and / or the second power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery) housed within the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 may be provided.

[0196] The one or more indicators preferably comprise one or more light emitting diodes.

[0197] This charging device preferably includes a portable carry case for storing the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501.

[0198] According to a preferred embodiment, a charging device 500 as described above is combined with a non-flammable aerosol supply device 501.

[0199] The non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 may be mechanically and / or electrically coupled to the charging device 500 during use.

[0200] One or more aerosol-forming materials (e.g., tobacco rod consumables) 502 may be provided, and optionally, one or more aerosol-forming materials 502 are inserted into the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 or held in another manner during use.

[0201] Also, various embodiments relate to a method including the step of providing a charging device coupled to a non-combustible aerosol supply device having one or more aerosol generators. This method further includes the step of supplying power from the charging device to the one or more aerosol generators.

[0202] Also disclosed is an apparatus including a charging device 500 and / or a non-combustible aerosol supply device 501. The charging device 500 and / or the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 may further include a fixing or holding mechanism for fixing or holding the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 to the charging device 500.

[0203] According to one embodiment, the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 can be held within the charging device 500 by a fixing or holding mechanism that fixes or holds the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 to the charging device 500 such that the aerosol supply device 501 and the charging device 500 can be inverted or turned upside down.

[0204] The fixing or holding mechanism may include one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials.

[0205] The charging device may include one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials.

[0206] The non-combustible aerosol supply device may include one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the strength of the magnet is preferably greater than the weight of the device. According to one embodiment, the strength of the magnet of the mouthpiece, in combination with the magnetic force of the charger, is preferably greater than the weight of the device. Thereby, the device will not fall from the charger even when it is turned upside down. This also means that the consumer can remove the holder from the case by pulling the mouthpiece.

[0208] Alternatively, the strength of the magnet of the mouthpiece 503 may be less than the weight of the device, in combination with the magnet of the charger. This allows the mouthpiece 503 to be removable without accidental movement of the holder from the charger.

[0209] This charging device may comprise a portable carrying case 500 for storing the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501.

[0210] This device may further comprise one or more aerosol-forming materials 502, and optionally, one or more aerosol-forming materials 502 are inserted into the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 or held in some other manner during use.

[0211] A system comprising a charging device 500 and a non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 is disclosed. The charging device 500 and / or the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 further comprises a fixing or holding mechanism for fixing or holding the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 to the charging device 500.

[0212] The fixing or holding mechanism may include one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or steel materials.

[0213] A method is disclosed that includes the steps of providing a charging device 500 and a non-combustible aerosol supply device 501, and fixing or holding the non-combustible aerosol supply device 501 to the charging device 500.

[0214] The step of fixing or holding the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 to the charging device 500 may further include using one or more magnets to fix or hold the non-flammable aerosol supply device 501 to the charging device 500. However, the use of magnets is not essential, and other embodiments using mechanical latch mechanisms are also conceivable.

[0215] The above embodiments are to be understood as examples useful for explaining the present invention. Other embodiments of the present invention are also conceivable. It is understood that any feature described with respect to any one embodiment can be used alone or in combination with other described features, and also in combination with one or more features of any other or any combination thereof of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and improvements not described above as defined in the appended claims can also be employed without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A first power source; a first device that provides electrical power to the non-flammable aerosol delivery device; a second device that receives power from an external power source; Equipped with A charging device configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol delivery device in a first operating mode.

2. 10. The charging device of claim 1, which is portable.

3. The charging device of claim 1 or 2, wherein in the first operating mode, the first power source is configured to supply power to the one or more aerosol generators of the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.

4. A charging device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, configured to supply power to one or more aerosol generators of a non-flammable aerosol supply device in the first operating mode so that the one or more aerosol generators generate aerosol from one or more aerosol forming materials.

5. The charging apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first device is configured to supply power to the non-flammable aerosol delivery device via (i) a wired connection and / or (ii) a wireless connection.

6. 6. The charging apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second device is configured to receive power from an external power source via (i) a wired connection and / or (ii) a wireless connection.

7. A charging device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the charging device and / or the non-flammable aerosol delivery device are configured to detect when the non-flammable aerosol delivery device is mechanically coupled to the charging device, held within the charging device, or otherwise inserted in or within the charging device.

8. A charging device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the charging device and / or the non-flammable aerosol delivery device are configured to detect when the non-flammable aerosol delivery device is electrically coupled to the charging device.

9. 9. The charging device of claim 7 or 8, further comprising a third device that receives a signal from the non-flammable aerosol delivery device that the non-flammable aerosol delivery device is (i) mechanically coupled to, held within, or otherwise inserted in or within the charging device, and / or (ii) electrically coupled to the charging device.

10. The charging apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 9, configured in a second operational mode to supply power to a second power source contained within the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.

11. 11. The charging device of claim 1, further configured to, in the first operating mode, supply power to the first power source and / or a second power source contained within the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.

12. A charging device as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, in one operational mode, diverting power from the supply to the one or more aerosol generators to provide power for recharging the first power source and / or for recharging a second power source contained within a non-flammable aerosol supply device.

13. 13. The charging apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more indicators configured to indicate a charging status of the first power source and / or a second power source contained within the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.

14. The charging device of claim 13 , wherein the one or more indicators comprise one or more light emitting diodes.

15. 15. The charging apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a portable carry case for storing the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.

16. A charging device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, a non-flammable aerosol delivery device; A system equipped with.

17. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the non-flammable aerosol delivery device is mechanically and / or electrically coupled to the charging device during use.

18. 18. The system of claim 16 or 17, further comprising one or more aerosol forming materials, optionally inserted or otherwise held within the non-flammable aerosol delivery device during use.

19. Providing a charging device coupled to a non-flammable aerosol delivery device including one or more aerosol generators; providing power from the charging device to the one or more aerosol generators; The method includes:

20. A charging device and / or a non-flammable aerosol delivery device are provided; The apparatus, wherein the charging apparatus and / or the non-flammable aerosol delivery device further comprises a fastening or retention mechanism for fastening or retaining the non-flammable aerosol delivery device to the charging apparatus.

21. 21. The device of claim 20, wherein the securing or retaining mechanism comprises one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or ferrous materials.

22. 22. The device of claim 21, wherein the charging device comprises one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or ferrous materials.

23. 23. The apparatus of claim 21 or 22, wherein the non-flammable aerosol delivery device comprises one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or ferrous materials.

24. The apparatus of any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the charging apparatus comprises a portable carry case for storing the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.

25. 25. An apparatus according to any one of claims 30 to 24, further comprising one or more aerosol forming materials, optionally the one or more aerosol forming materials being inserted or otherwise held within the non-flammable aerosol delivery device in use.

26. A charging device; a non-flammable aerosol delivery device; Equipped with The system, wherein the charging device and / or the non-flammable aerosol delivery device further comprises a fastening or retention mechanism for fastening or retaining the non-flammable aerosol delivery device to the charging device.

27. 27. The system of claim 26, wherein the securing or retaining mechanism comprises one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or ferrous materials.

28. Providing a charging device and a non-flammable aerosol delivery device; fastening or retaining the non-flammable aerosol delivery device to the charging device; The method includes:

29. 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the step of fixing or holding the non-flammable aerosol delivery device to the charging device further comprises fixing or holding the non-flammable aerosol delivery device to the charging device using one or more magnets, magnetic materials, or ferrous materials.

Images