Aerosol generator or case with multiple power sources

Abstract

A charging case for an aerosol generating device includes a case connector for receiving power from an external source, a plurality of case cavities, a mounting section for connecting the aerosol generating device to the charging case, and a case control unit, each of the plurality of case cavities configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power sources, the case control unit configured to charge a first power source of the plurality of power sources via the case connector using power from the external power source, and to charge an aerosol generating device connected to the mounting section via a second power source of the plurality of power sources or via the case connector using power from the external power source.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device or case having multiple power sources, each of which may be removable and / or selectable. [Background technology]

[0002] In some systems, the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate, such as a collection of crimped sheets of tobacco. In these systems, the device typically includes an atomizer arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate when the article is received within the device. The aerosol-generating article may also include a filter wound with the aerosol-forming substrate in the form of a rod, similar to a conventional cigarette. In other systems, the device is configured to receive a cartridge comprising an atomizer and a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Such cartridges are often referred to as cartomizers. A common type of atomizer used in cartomizers includes a coil of heater wire wrapped around an elongated core wetted with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0003] Heating the aerosol-forming substrate can be an energy-intensive process: it may require large energy storage units that increase the size and weight of the aerosol-generating device, and may adversely affect the handling of such devices.

[0004] Some systems utilize an aerosol generating device with sufficient energy storage for a single use in conjunction with a charging station or case with larger energy storage. The aerosol generating device may be removed from the charging station or case before use and reinserted into the charging station after use. The charging station or case may recharge the aerosol generating device between uses. Other systems include a charging station or case with an additional aerosol generating device. However, including a second aerosol generating device may also double the need to clean such devices. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It would be desirable to provide a solution to allow uninterrupted use of the aerosol generating device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, a charging case for an aerosol generating device is provided, the charging case including a case connector, a plurality of case cavities, a mounting section, and a case control unit. The case connector is for receiving power from an external source. Each of the plurality of case cavities is configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power sources. The mounting section is for connecting the aerosol generating device to the charging case. The case control unit is arranged to charge a first power source of the plurality of power sources via the case connector using power from the external power source, and to charge the aerosol generating device connected to the mounting section via a second power source of the plurality of power sources or via the case connector using power from the external power source.

[0007] Advantageously, incorporating multiple case cavities configured to receive at least one of the multiple power sources may provide power redundancy and ensure continued operability in the event of a failure of one of the multiple power sources. Additionally, incorporating a case control unit arranged to charge the aerosol generating device via one of the multiple power sources or via a case connector may reduce the load placed on the multiple power sources, thereby extending their lifespan. For example, the multiple power sources may not be charged and discharged simultaneously, and the charging case may charge the aerosol generating device directly from external power. Furthermore, the mounting section may provide power and charge the aerosol generating device while the device is in use.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising: a heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate; a device housing having a plurality of power supply cavities, each of the plurality of power supply cavities configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power supplies; and a selector arranged to select a first power supply from the plurality of power supplies inserted into the plurality of power supply cavities and to provide power from the selected first power supply to the heater.

[0009] Advantageously, incorporating multiple power supply cavities configured to receive at least one of multiple power sources may provide power redundancy and ensure continued operability in the event that one of the multiple power sources fails. This may also allow one of the multiple power sources to be used to power the heater while another, different power source is being charged for later use.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, a kit is provided that includes an aerosol generating device and a charging case.

[0011] The case control unit may be arranged to charge the plurality of power supplies via the case connector using power from an external power source. Each of the plurality of power supplies may be removable from and insertable into any one of the plurality of case cavities. Access to the case cavities may be provided via the mounting section.

[0012] Advantageously, providing a charging case with multiple device cavities for charging removable power sources allows for depleted removable power sources to be recharged while the aerosol generating device is in use, and defective power sources may be removed and replaced without having to replace the entire charging case.

[0013] The outer surface of the mounting section may be shaped to receive the aerosol generating device. The mounting section may include one or more connectors for connecting the aerosol generating device to the charging case. Each of the multiple power sources may be removable from and insertable into a corresponding one of the multiple power source cavities.

[0014] The device housing may further comprise a charging port for charging a power source received in any of the plurality of power source cavities. The aerosol generating device may be configured to control power supplied to the heater from one or more of the plurality of power sources and to maintain power provided to the heater using any one or more of the plurality of power sources remaining in the power source cavities.

[0015] Advantageously, providing an aerosol generating device with a charging port allows the power sources to be charged without removing them from the device. Additionally, providing an aerosol generating device that can selectively provide power from any one of the power sources allows for continued use even if one of the batteries fails, is depleted, or is removed from the aerosol generating device.

[0016] The device housing may include a power supply portion and a cover portion. The power supply portion may include a plurality of power supply cavities. The cover portion may be for covering and providing access to the power supply cavities of the power supply portion. The power supply portion and the cover portion may be configured to rotate relative to each other. The device housing may further include a mounting pin. The power supply portion and the cover portion may be rotatably coupled to the mounting pin. The cover portion may include a window portion. The power supply portion may be rotatable relative to the cover portion to expose at least one of the plurality of power supply cavities through the window portion.

[0017] Advantageously, providing a device housing with a power supply portion and a cover portion as described herein allows for the power supply to be removably removed and replaced without being used.

[0018] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a body portion comprising a protrusion, and the power supply portion may comprise at least one locking recess, and the protrusion may be configured to engage with the at least one locking recess to maintain the rotatable position of the power supply portion.

[0019] Advantageously, providing an aerosol generating device with protrusions and locking recesses allows for easy rotatable selection of one of the power sources or charging ports while preventing the power source portion from rotating freely.

[0020] Each power supply cavity may include a biasing element and an electrical contact. The biasing element may be configured to be compressed. The biasing element may be operable to engage at least one of the plurality of power sources. The electrical contact may be configured to electrically couple to at least one of the plurality of power sources when the biasing element is compressed by at least one of the plurality of power sources.

[0021] Advantageously, providing the biasing element and contacts as described herein allows for securing the battery within the aerosol generating device and ensuring proper connection of the electrical contacts.

[0022] The present disclosure further provides an aerosol generating device comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a heater for heating a device housing, the device housing comprising a plurality of power supply cavities, each of the plurality of power supply cavities configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power sources.

[0023] The present disclosure further provides an aerosol generation system including a charging case and an aerosol generation device. The charging case includes a case power supply and a case housing including a plurality of case cavities. Each of the plurality of case cavities is configured to receive at least one of a plurality of removable power supplies. The case power supply is configured to charge each of the plurality of removable power supplies inserted into the plurality of case cavities. The aerosol generation device includes a heater for heating the aerosol-forming substrate and the device housing. The device housing includes a power supply cavity configured to receive at least one of the plurality of removable power supplies.

[0024] Providing multiple power supply cavities as described provides improved functionality for the aerosol generating device because each of the multiple power supply cavities can accommodate a removable power source. For example, each of the multiple power supply cavities can accommodate a removable power source, thereby allowing the aerosol generating device to accommodate at least two removable power sources. This may allow the aerosol generating device to continue providing power to the heater while a depleted removable power source is replaced with a charged removable power source. In addition, the aerosol generating device may switch power consumption from a low or depleted removable power source to a charged removable power source. Such functionality may provide an aerosol generating device suitable for continued use by multiple users or a single user who desires to use the device for longer than a single use. Additionally, the removable power source may be replaced when the removable power source wears out or no longer holds an adequate charge.

[0025] Preferably, the device housing further comprises a charging port for charging a removable power source received within any of the plurality of power source cavities.

[0026] The aerosol generating device is preferably configured to control the power supplied to the heater from one or more of the plurality of removable power sources and to maintain the power provided to the heater using any one or more of the plurality of removable power sources remaining within the power source cavity.

[0027] The device housing preferably includes a power supply portion including a plurality of power supply cavities and a cover portion for covering and providing access to the power supply cavities of the power supply portion. The power supply portion and the cover portion may be configured to rotate relative to one another. The aerosol generation device may further include a mounting pin. The power supply portion and the cover portion may be rotatably coupled to the mounting pin. The cover portion preferably includes a window portion. The power supply portion may be rotatable relative to the cover portion to expose at least one of the plurality of power supply cavities through the window portion. The cover portion may be rotatable to expose at least one of the plurality of power supply cavities through the window portion.

[0028] Preferably, the aerosol generating device further comprises a body portion comprising a protrusion, and the power supply portion comprises at least one locking recess, and the protrusion may be configured to engage with the at least one locking recess to maintain the rotatable position of the power supply portion.

[0029] The device cavity preferably comprises a biasing element and an electrical contact. The biasing element may be configured to be compressed. The biasing element may be operable to engage at least one of the plurality of removable power sources. The electrical contact may be configured to electrically couple to at least one of the plurality of removable power sources when the biasing element is compressed by at least one of the plurality of removable power sources.

[0030] Preferably, each of the plurality of power cavities has a hexagonal cross section.

[0031] Preferably, the charging case further comprises electronics configured to charge one or more of the plurality of power sources based on the current supply capabilities of the case power source.

[0032] The charging case preferably further comprises a charger port for charging the case power supply, one or more of the plurality of power supplies, or both the case power supply and one or more of the plurality of power supplies.

[0033] Preferably, the charging case further includes a mounting section configured to receive the aerosol generating device. The mounting section may include one or more connectors for connecting to the aerosol generating device. Access to the case cavity may be provided through the mounting section. The shape of the outer surface of the mounting section may be shaped to receive the aerosol generating device.

[0034] Preferably, one or more of the couplers comprises one or more magnets.

[0035] Advantageously, an aerosol generating device including multiple power supply cavities as described herein may provide a simple way to extend the duration of continuous use without requiring a significant increase in the size and weight of the device. As a result, a single aerosol generating device may be used as long as a charged power source is available. Furthermore, the removable power source can be replaced when the removable power source wears out or no longer holds a sufficient charge to power the aerosol generating device. Still further, providing a charging case with multiple device cavities for charging the removable power source allows for a depleted removable power source to be recharged while the aerosol generating device is in use.

[0036] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" is used herein to mean an article in which an aerosol-generating substrate is heated to generate and deliver to a consumer an inhalable aerosol. As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating substrate" means a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating to generate an aerosol.

[0037] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that includes a heater element that interacts with an aerosol-generating substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0038] As used herein, the term "charging case" refers to a case that receives at least one power source within each of a plurality of case cavities and has the ability to charge the received power source. The charging case may include a housing and a mounting section. The housing may generally form the shape of the charging case. The mounting section may be configured to receive an aerosol generating device. The charging case may be configured to charge the power source of the aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating device is received within the mounting section. The charging case may include a case power source configured to charge the received power source. The charging case may include electronics configured to charge the one or more power sources based on the current supply capability of the case power source.

[0039] As used herein, the term "cavity" refers to a volumetric space defined within a body or housing that may extend between an open end and a closed end. The sides of the cavity extending between the ends may be enclosed by the body or housing.

[0040] As used herein, the term "power source" refers to an energy storage device. The energy storage device may include, for example, a battery, a lithium-ion battery, a rechargeable battery, a fuel cell, or other forms of energy storage. The removable power source may include a body, a head, and electrical contacts. The body may be configured to store energy. The stored energy may be electrical energy, chemical energy, or other forms of energy storage. The power source may have an energy capacity in the range of about 250 mAh to about 600 mAh. The electrical contacts may be configured to electrically couple with electrical contacts of the aerosol generating device or the charger case.

[0041] The removable power source may have a hexagonal cross-sectional area. Alternatively, the power source may have a square or circular cross-sectional area, or any other suitable cross-sectional area. The head may have a larger cross-sectional area than the body. Providing a head with a larger cross-sectional area than the body may provide easier handling for the user. The body may extend along a length or axis between the head and the electrical contacts. In other words, the head may be located at a distal end of the removable power source, and the electrical contacts may be located at a proximal end of the removable power source. The electrical contacts may electrically couple energy stored in the removable power source to the aerosol generating device, the charging case, the power source, or the energy providing source. The electrical contacts may comprise any suitable conductive material.

[0042] The aerosol generating system may include a charging case and an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may include a heater and a device housing. The device housing may include a heater portion, a cover portion, a power supply portion, and a power supply cavity. The device housing may have a length extending along an axis between the distal end and the proximal end. The device housing may have a length in the range of about 200 mm to about 120 mm. Preferably, the device housing may have a length in the range of about 140 mm to about 160 mm. The device housing may have a length in the range of about 150 mm to about 155 mm. The device housing may have a length in the range of about 153 mm. The device housing may have a diameter or width in the range of about 25 mm to about 35 mm. Preferably, the device housing has a diameter or width of about 30 mm.

[0043] The heater portion may have a length extending axially from the distal end of the aerosol-generating device. The heater portion may include or define a heater cavity. The heater may be located within the heater cavity. The heater cavity may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. The heater cavity may have a diameter in the range of about 6 mm to about 10 mm. Preferably, the heater cavity may have a diameter of about 8 mm. The heater may be configured to penetrate an aerosol-generating article received within the heater cavity. Additionally, the heater may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating article received therein.

[0044] The power supply portion may abut the heater portion. The power supply portion may be rotatably attached or coupled to the heater portion. For example, the power supply portion may include a mounting pin rotatably coupled to the heater portion. The power supply portion may be rotatable about an axis extending along the length of the aerosol generating device and the device housing. In other words, the power supply portion may be rotatable relative to the heater portion or the cover portion. The power supply portion may include one or more locking recesses. As used herein, the term "recess" refers to an indentation, dimple, or notch. The one or more locking recesses may be configured to interact with one or more protrusions to maintain the rotational position of the power supply portion or the cover portion. The power supply portion or the cover portion may include numerous rotational or locking positions. The heater portion or the cover portion may include one or more protrusions configured to engage with one or more locking recesses.

[0045] The power supply portion may have a diameter within the range of about 24 mm to about 34 mm. Preferably, the power supply portion may have a diameter of about 29 mm. The power supply portion may have a length extending axially from the heater portion toward the proximal end of the aerosol generating device.

[0046] The cover portion may cover at least a portion of the power source portion. The cover portion may have a length extending along the axis from the heater portion to the proximal end of the aerosol generating device. The cover portion may include a gap along its length that exposes a surface of the power source portion along its length. The gap in the cover portion may have a length within a range of about 10 mm to about 20 mm. Preferably, the gap in the cover portion has a length of about 15 mm. The gap in the cover portion may allow the power source portion to rotate relative to the heater portion or the cover portion. In other words, a user may be able to rotate the power source portion by gripping the heater portion or the cover portion and applying pressure on the power source portion exposed by the gap in the cover portion, thereby turning or rotating the power source portion. The cover portion may be fixed relative to the heater portion. Alternatively, the cover portion may be rotatable relative to the heater portion, and the power source portion may be fixed relative to the heater portion.

[0047] The power supply portion may include or define multiple power supply cavities. The power supply cavities may have an open end toward the proximal end of the aerosol generating device and a closed end toward the heater portion. Each of the power supply cavities may have a biasing element configured to be compressed. The biasing element may be located at the closed end of the power supply cavity. The biasing element may be operable to engage a removable power supply received within the power supply cavity. The biasing element may include a resilient protrusion, a spring, or other suitable device for engaging the removable power supply. The biasing element may enable easy removal of the removable power supply when such a removable power supply is not secured within the power supply cavity. The removable power supply may not be secured within the power supply cavity when the cover portion exposes the removable power supply.

[0048] The power supply cavity may include electrical contacts. The electrical contacts may be located proximal to the closed end of the power supply cavity. The electrical contacts may be operably coupled to the heater by a circuit. The aerosol generating device may be configured to control power provided to the heater from one or more of the multiple removable power sources received within the power supply cavity. The aerosol generating device may be further configured to maintain power provided to the heater using any one or more of the multiple removable power sources remaining within the power supply cavity. The circuit may include any suitable electronics or devices for controlling the power provided to the heater. For example, the circuit may operably couple each of the power supply cavities to the heater or may receive removable power sources in parallel. Such a configuration would enable the aerosol generating device to provide power at a voltage less than or equal to the maximum voltage of the removable power sources. In another embodiment, the circuit may include a controller for controlling the power provided to the heater. The controller may include one or more processors, memories, logic units, or other electronics to provide power control of the aerosol generating device.

[0049] Dynamically providing power from one or more power sources, as described herein, allows power to be provided to the heater while a depleted power source is removed and replaced with a charged power source. This allows for sustained, uninterrupted use of the aerosol generating device, even if one of the power sources is depleted. As a result, an aerosol generating device as described herein may be used for multiple sessions or for multiple people without having to wait for the battery to be recharged between each single use or after use by a single user.

[0050] The power supply portion may include a charger port. The charger port may be located at a proximal end of the power supply portion. The charger port may be located adjacent to or proximal to the open end of the power supply cavity. The charger port may be configured to couple to a charging cable. The charger port may be electrically coupled to electrical contacts to provide power for charging the removable power source. The charger port may be operably coupled to circuitry of the aerosol generation device. The circuitry of the aerosol generation device may include a controller. The controller may be configured to control charging of the removable power source through the charging port.

[0051] The cover portion may include a window portion. The window portion may be located at a proximal end of the aerosol generating device. The window portion may be configured to expose at least one of a charging port or a plurality of power cavities. The window portion may be configured to expose one of these features in each rotational position provided by the one or more locking recesses.

[0052] The cover portion may hold the removable power supply within the power supply cavity. The cover portion may press the removable power supply against the biasing element such that the biasing element is compressed when the cover portion covers the removable power supply. The cover portion may include an angled edge along an edge of the window portion to allow the cover portion to smoothly press the removable power supply into the power supply cavity during rotation of the power supply portion or the cover portion. When the removable power supply is exposed by the window portion, the biasing element may press a head of the removable power supply out of the power supply cavity to allow easy removal of the removable power supply.

[0053] Alternatively, each power source cavity may include a retaining element at the cavity opening. The retaining element may include a resilient protrusion, a releasable tab, or other device for retaining the removable power source within the power source cavity. The retaining element may be used when the aerosol generating device does not have a cover portion. When the retaining element is released or removed, a biasing element may push the head of the removable power source out of the power source cavity, allowing for easy removal of the removable power source.

[0054] The charging case may include a case power supply and a case housing. The length of the aerosol generating device configured for use with the charging case and the length of the charging case are preferably substantially the same. The length of the aerosol generating device configured for use with the charging case and the length of the charging case may be different from each other. In one embodiment, the charging case may include multiple power supplies.

[0055] The case housing may have a length within a range of approximately 130 mm to approximately 180 mm. The case housing may have a length within a range of approximately 140 mm to approximately 160 mm. The case housing preferably has a length within a range of approximately 150 mm to approximately 155 mm. The case housing preferably has a length of approximately 153 mm. The case housing may have a width within a range of approximately 30 mm to approximately 50 mm. The case housing preferably has a width of approximately 40 mm. The case housing may have a height within a range of approximately 40 mm to approximately 75 mm. The case housing preferably has a height of approximately 57 mm.

[0056] The charging case may include a mounting section configured to receive the aerosol generating device. The mounting section may extend along the length of a side of the charging case. The mounting section may be shaped to receive the aerosol generating device. For example, the mounting section may include a semicircular depression or groove extending along the length of a side of the charging case. The mounting section may include one or more connectors to releasably hold the aerosol generating device to the mounting section. The one or more connectors may include one or more magnets or magnetic materials.

[0057] In another example, the mounting section may include a device cavity extending into a surface of the charging case. The device cavity may be shaped to receive at least a portion of an end of the aerosol generating device. The device cavity may include a charger port of the mounting section configured to operably couple to a charger port of the aerosol generating device. The device cavity may include one or more couplers for releasably holding the aerosol generating device to the mounting section. The one or more couplers may include one or more magnets or magnetic materials.

[0058] The case housing may include multiple case cavities. Each case cavity may be configured to receive at least one of the multiple power sources. The charging case may be configured to charge one or more of the multiple power sources when received within the multiple case cavities. Each case cavity may include a biasing element at a closed end of the case cavity to engage with a power source received therein. The biasing element may be configured to be compressed. Each case cavity may include one or more electrical contacts to electrically couple any received power source to the charging case. The electrical contacts may be located proximate the closed end of the case cavity. The electrical contacts may comprise any suitable conductive material. Access to the case cavity may be located within the mounting section. In other words, the open end of the case cavity may be located within the mounting section. The open end of the case cavity may be exposed upon removal of the aerosol generating device from the mounting section. Upon removal of the aerosol generating device from the mounting section, the power source located within the case cavity may be pushed out of the case cavity by the biasing element. The presence of the aerosol-generating element within the mounting section may be configured to retain the power source within the case cavity.

[0059] The charging case may include electronics configured to charge one or more power sources received within the charging case based on the current supply capabilities of the case power sources. The electronics may be further configured to charge the multiple power sources based on the voltage of each of the multiple power sources. The electronics may include one or more processors, memories, logic units, or other circuitry for controlling the charging of the power sources.

[0060] The charging case may further include a charger port for charging the case power supply, one or more of the multiple power supplies, or both the case power supply and one or more of the multiple power supplies. The charger port may be operably coupled to the electronics, the case power supply, or electrical contacts. The charger port may include an interface for coupling to any suitable input or charging cable.

[0061] In another embodiment, the charger port is operably coupled to a case control unit. The case control unit may be operably coupled to the charger port of the mounting section and each of the plurality of power sources. The case control unit may be arranged to charge one or more of the plurality of power sources via external power from the charger port. The case control unit may be further configured to charge the aerosol generating device using external power from the charger port or using power from one or more of the plurality of power sources. The control unit may be configured to detect when the aerosol generating device is received within the mounting section. The control unit may be configured to determine charge levels of the plurality of power sources or the aerosol generating device. The control unit may be configured to charge the plurality of power sources or the aerosol generating device based on the detected charge levels.

[0062] The charging case may include a storage portion, which may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article or an aerosol-generating device accessory.

[0063] All scientific and technical terms used herein have meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions provided herein are intended to facilitate understanding of certain terms used frequently herein.

[0064] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include embodiments having plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0065] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense including "and / or" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0066] As used herein, the words "have," "having," "include," "including," "comprise," "comprising," and the like are used in their open-ended sense and generally mean "including, but not limited to." It should be understood that "consisting essentially of," "consisting of," and the like are encompassed by "comprising" and the like.

[0067] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may offer certain advantages, under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims.

[0068] Below is provided a non-exhaustive numbered list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any other one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0069] 1: A charging case for an aerosol generating device, the charging case comprising: a case connector for receiving power from an external source; a plurality of case cavities, each of the plurality of case cavities configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power sources; a mounting section for connecting the aerosol generating device to the charging case; and a case control unit arranged to charge a first power source of the plurality of power sources via the case connector using power from the external power source, and to charge the aerosol generating device connected to the mounting section via a second power source of the plurality of power sources or via the case connector using power from the external power source.

[0070] 2: The charging case of example 1, wherein the case control unit is arranged to charge the multiple power sources via the case connector using power from an external power source.

[0071] 3: A charging case as described in Example 1 or Example 2, wherein each of the power sources is removable and insertable into any one of the case cavities.

[0072] 4: An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the mounting section comprises one or more connectors for connecting the aerosol generating device to the charging case.

[0073] 5: Aerosol generation system as described in Example 4, where access to the case cavity is provided through the mounting section.

[0074] 6: An aerosol generation system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the shape of the outer surface of the mounting section is configured to receive an aerosol generating device.

[0075] 7: An aerosol generating device comprising: a heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate; a device housing having a plurality of power supply cavities, each of the plurality of power supply cavities configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power supplies; and a selector arranged to select a first power supply from a plurality of power supplies inserted into the plurality of power supply cavities, and arranged to provide power from the selected first power supply to the heater.

[0076] 8: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 7, wherein each of the plurality of power sources is removable from and insertable into a corresponding one of the plurality of power source cavities.

[0077] 9: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 7 or Example 8, wherein the device housing further comprises a charging port for charging a removable power source received in any of the multiple power source cavities.

[0078] 10: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 7 to 9, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to control the power supplied to the heater from one or more of the multiple removable power sources and to maintain the power provided to the heater using any one or more of the multiple removable power sources remaining in the power source cavity.

[0079] 11: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 7 to 10, wherein the device housing comprises a power supply portion having a plurality of power supply cavities and a cover portion for covering and providing access to the power supply cavities of the power supply portion, and the power supply portion and the cover portion are configured to rotate relative to each other.

[0080] 12: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 7 to 11, wherein the device further comprises a mounting pin, and the power supply portion and the cover portion are rotatably coupled to the mounting pin.

[0081] 13: An aerosol generating device described in one of Examples 7 to 12, wherein the cover portion has a window portion and the power supply portion is rotatable relative to the cover portion to expose at least one of the multiple power supply cavities through the window portion.

[0082] 14: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 7 to 13, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a body portion having a protrusion, and the power supply portion comprises at least one locking recess, and the protrusion is configured to engage with the at least one locking recess to maintain the rotatable position of the power supply portion.

[0083] 15: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 7 to 14, wherein each power supply cavity comprises a biasing element configured to be compressed, the biasing element operable to engage with at least one of the plurality of removable power sources, and an electrical contact configured to electrically connect to at least one of the plurality of removable power sources when the biasing element is compressed by at least one of the plurality of removable power sources.

[0084] 16: A kit comprising the aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 7 to 15 and the charging case according to any one of Examples 1 to 6.

[0085] 17: An aerosol generating device comprising: a heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate; and a device housing comprising a plurality of power supply cavities, each of which is configured to receive at least one of a plurality of removable power sources.

[0086] 18: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 17, wherein the device housing further comprises a charging port for charging a removable power source received in any of the multiple power source cavities.

[0087] 19: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 17 to 18, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to control the power supplied to the heater from one or more of the multiple removable power sources and to maintain the power provided to the heater using any one or more of the multiple removable power sources remaining in the power source cavity.

[0088] 20: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 17 to 19, wherein the device housing comprises a power supply portion having a plurality of power supply cavities and a cover portion for covering and providing access to the power supply cavities of the power supply portion, and the power supply portion and the cover portion are configured to rotate relative to each other.

[0089] 21: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 17 to 20, wherein the device further comprises a mounting pin, and the power supply portion and the cover portion are rotatably connected to the mounting pin.

[0090] 22: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 17 to 21, wherein the cover portion has a window portion and the power supply portion is rotatable relative to the cover portion to expose at least one of the multiple power supply cavities through the window portion.

[0091] 23: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 17 to 22, wherein the cover portion is rotatable to expose at least one of the multiple power supply cavities through the window portion.

[0092] 24: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 20 to 23, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a main body portion having a protrusion, and the power supply portion comprises at least one locking recess, and the protrusion is configured to engage with the at least one locking recess to maintain the rotatable position of the power supply portion.

[0093] 25: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 17 to 24, wherein the power supply cavity comprises a biasing element configured to be compressed, the biasing element operable to engage with at least one of the plurality of removable power sources, and electrical contacts configured to electrically connect to at least one of the plurality of removable power sources when the biasing element is compressed by at least one of the plurality of removable power sources.

[0094] 26: An aerosol generation system comprising: a charging case having a case power supply; a case housing having a plurality of case cavities, each of the plurality of case cavities configured to receive at least one of a plurality of removable power supplies, and the case power supply configured to charge each of the plurality of removable power supplies inserted into the plurality of case cavities; an aerosol generation device having a heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate; and a device housing having a power supply cavity configured to receive at least one of the plurality of removable power supplies.

[0095] 27: An aerosol generating system as described in Example 26, wherein the charging case further comprises electronics configured to charge one or more of the multiple removable power sources based on the current supply capacity of the case power source.

[0096] 28: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 26 to 27, wherein the charging case further comprises a charger port for charging the case power supply, one or more of the multiple removable power supplies, or both the case power supply and one or more of the multiple removable power supplies.

[0097] 29: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 26 to 28, wherein the charging case further comprises a mounting section configured to receive an aerosol generating device, and the mounting section comprises one or more connectors for connecting to the aerosol generating device.

[0098] 30: The aerosol generating system of Example 29, wherein access to the case cavity is provided through the mounting section.

[0099] 31: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 29 to 30, wherein the shape of the outer surface of the mounting section is configured to receive an aerosol generating device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0100] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of the charging case. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the charging case and the aerosol generating device. [Figures 3A-3D] 3A to 3D are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating device. [Figures 4A-4C] 4A to 4C are schematic diagrams of the power supply part of the aerosol generating device. [Figures 5A-5D] 5A-5D are schematic diagrams of the position of the power supply portion relative to the cover portion to cover and provide access to the power supply cavity of the power supply portion. [Figures 6A-6C] 6A-6C are schematic diagrams of a removable power supply. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of the interaction of a cover portion and a removable power source. [Figures 8A-8D] 8A-8D are schematic diagrams of a charging case having multiple case cavities.

[0101] The aerosol generating devices and systems shown in Figures 1-8 illustrate one or more embodiments of the aerosol generating devices, charging cases, and aerosol generating systems described above. The schematic diagrams are not necessarily to scale and are presented for illustrative purposes, not limitation. The drawings illustrate one or more aspects described in the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that other aspects not shown in the drawings are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0102] 1A illustrates an aerosol-generating device 10 that includes a device housing 11 and a heater 12 for heating an aerosol-forming substrate. The device housing 11 includes a plurality of power supply cavities 18. Each of the plurality of power supply cavities 18 is configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power sources.

[0103] Each of the multiple power sources may be removable from or insertable into the aerosol generation device 10. For example, each of the multiple power sources may be removable from the aerosol generation device 10 without the use of tools, such that the power source can be removed using only a user's hands. Alternatively, the multiple power sources may be permanently fixed within the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the use of a tool (such as a screwdriver) may be required to remove each of the multiple power sources from the aerosol generation device 10, such that the power source cannot be removed using only a user's hands.

[0104] The aerosol generating device 10 includes a selector arranged to select a power source from among a plurality of power sources inserted into a plurality of power source cavities 18 and provide power from the selected removable power source to the heater 12. The selector may include any suitable circuitry or electronics, such as circuitry 14, for selecting a removable power source and providing power from such removable power source to the heater 12. The selector may include any suitable arrangement, including a switch or a rotatable battery chamber, for selecting the power source. The selector may include a rotatable power source portion, such as the power source portions shown in Figures 3A-3D, 4A-4C, and 5A-5D.

[0105] The aerosol generating device 10 includes circuitry 14. The circuitry 14 may include any suitable electronics or devices for controlling the power provided to the heater 12. For example, the circuitry 14 may operatively couple each of the power supply cavities 18 to the heater 12 or may accept a removable power supply in parallel. Such a configuration would allow the aerosol generating device to provide power at a voltage up to the maximum voltage of the removable power supply. In another embodiment, the circuitry 14 may include a controller for controlling the power provided to the heater 12. The controller may include one or more processors, memories, logic units, or other electronic devices to provide power control.

[0106] The aerosol generating device 10 includes a circuit 16 and a charging port 17. The circuit 16 may include any suitable electronics or device for controlling power received from the charging port 17. The charging port 17 may be coupled to an external power source, such as a charging case, or may be coupled to an electrical outlet using an adapter. The circuit 16 may operably couple each of the power supply cavities 18 or the received power sources to the external power source in parallel and control charging of the received power sources. In one embodiment, the circuit 16 may include a controller for controlling power provided to the received power sources. The controller may include one or more processors, memories, logic units, or other electronics to provide power control. In another embodiment, the circuit 14 and the circuit 16 are a single controller configured to control charging of the power sources and provide power to the heater 12.

[0107] 1B illustrates a charging case 20 including a case housing 21, a case connector 28, a plurality of case cavities 22, a mounting section 24, and a case control unit 26. The case connector 28 is arranged to receive power from an external source. Each of the plurality of case cavities 22 is configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power sources. The mounting section 24 can be connected to an aerosol generating device, such as the aerosol generating device 10 of FIG. 1A.

[0108] The case control unit 26 is arranged to control the charging of the multiple power sources within the multiple case cavities 22 and the aerosol generating devices received within the mounting section 24. The case control unit 26 receives power via the case connector 28 and provides power to the multiple power sources and the aerosol generating devices. The case control unit 26 may also receive power from one or more of the multiple power sources and provide such power to the aerosol generating devices. The case control unit 26 may provide power based on the charging of the multiple power sources and the aerosol generating devices. In one embodiment, the case control unit 26 is arranged to charge a first power source of the multiple power sources via the case connector 28 using power from an external power source and to charge the aerosol generating device connected to the mounting section 24 via a second power source of the multiple power sources or via the case connector using power from the external power source. The case control unit 26 may include one or more processors, memories, logic units, or other electronics to provide power control.

[0109] The case control unit 26 may provide power to at least one of the power sources within the case cavity 22 directly (i.e., not via or through another power source) from an external power source. The case control unit 26 may provide power to the aerosol generating device 10 directly (i.e., not via or through another power source) from at least one of the power sources within the case cavity 22.

[0110] The aerosol generating system illustrated in Figure 2 illustrates an example aerosol generating system 30 including a charging case 32, an aerosol generating device 34, and an aerosol-generating article 36. The charging case 32 may include a case power source and a case housing. The case housing may include multiple case cavities. Each of the multiple case cavities may be configured to receive at least one of multiple power sources.

[0111] Each of the multiple power sources may be removable from and insertable into the charging case 32. For example, each of the multiple power sources may be removable from the charging case 32 without the use of tools, such that the power source can be removed using only the user's hands. Alternatively, the multiple power sources may be permanently fixed within the charging case 32. For example, the use of a tool (such as a screwdriver) may be required to remove each of the multiple power sources from the charging case 32, such that the power source cannot be removed using only the user's hands.

[0112] The case power supply may be configured to charge each of a plurality of removable power supplies inserted into a plurality of case cavities. The charging case 32 may receive the aerosol generating device 34 in a mounting section 38. The charging case 32 may include one or more couplers configured to releasably hold the aerosol generating device 34 to the mounting section 38.

[0113] The aerosol-generating device 34 may include a heater for heating the aerosol-forming substrate and a device housing that may include a plurality of power supply cavities. Each of the plurality of power supply cavities may be configured to receive at least one of a plurality of removable power sources. The aerosol-generating device 34 may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article, such as the article 36. The aerosol-generating article 34 may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating device 36.

[0114] The aerosol generating device depicted in Figures 3A-3D illustrates an aerosol generating device 40 including a housing 41. Figure 3A illustrates a distal end view of the aerosol generating device 40. Figure 3B illustrates a side view of the aerosol generating device 40. Figure 3C illustrates a proximal end view of the aerosol generating device 40. Figure 3D illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the aerosol generating device 40. The housing 41 may include a heating portion 42, a cover portion 44, and a power supply portion 46. The heating portion 42 may include a heater cavity 48 at the distal end of the aerosol generating device 40, as depicted in Figure 3A. The heater cavity 48 may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. The heater cavity 48 may include a heater 56 for heating an aerosol-generating article received within the heater cavity.

[0115] The power supply portion 46 may include power supply cavities 50. An opening to the power supply cavities may be located at the proximal end of the aerosol generation device 40, as shown in FIG. 3C. The power supply cavities 50 may each be configured to receive at least one removable power source. The cover portion 44 may be configured to cover and provide access to the power supply cavities 50. The power supply portion 46 and the cover portion 44 may be configured to rotate relative to each other. The cover portion may include a window portion 52. The power supply portion 46 may be rotatable relative to the cover portion 44 to expose at least one of the power supply cavities 50 through the window portion 52. In other words, the cover portion 44 may be configured to cover the power supply cavities 50 unless the power supply portion 46 is rotated to expose one of the power supply cavities. The aerosol generation device 40 may further include a mounting pin 54. The power supply portion 46 and the cover portion 44 may be rotatably coupled to the mounting pin 54. One of the power supply portion 46 or the cover portion 44 may be rotatable relative to the other about a mounting pin 54 .

[0116] The power supply cavity 50 may include electrical contacts 58. The electrical contacts 58 may be located proximate the closed end of the power supply cavity 50. The electrical contacts 58 may be operably coupled to the heater 56 by a circuit 60. The aerosol generating device 40 may be configured to control the power provided to the heater 56 from one or more of the multiple removable power sources received within the power supply cavity 50. The aerosol generating device may further be configured to maintain the power provided to the heater 56 using any one or more of the multiple removable power sources remaining within the power supply cavity 50. The circuit 60 may include any suitable electronics or device for controlling the power provided to the heater 56. For example, the circuit 60 may operably couple each of the power supply cavities 50 to the heater 56 or may receive removable power sources in parallel. Such a configuration would enable the aerosol generating device to provide power at a voltage less than or equal to the maximum voltage of the removable power sources. In another embodiment, the circuit 60 may include a controller for controlling the power provided to the heater 56. The controller may include one or more processors, memories, logic units, or other electronic devices to provide power control.

[0117] The power supply portion depicted in Figures 4A-4C illustrates a power supply portion 70 including a mounting pin 72, a power supply cavity 74, a cavity opening 75, a charger port 76, and a locking recess 78. Figure 4A illustrates a proximal end view of the power supply portion 70. Figure 4B illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the power supply portion 70. Figure 4C illustrates a distal end view of the power supply portion 70.

[0118] The power supply portion 70 may have a cylindrical shape. A mounting pin 72 may define a protrusion from the center of the power supply portion 70. The mounting pin 72 may be used to rotatably couple the power supply portion 70 to the cover portion and allow the power supply portion to be rotated. The power supply portion 70 may have a locking recess 78 at its distal end, as shown in FIG. 4A . The locking recess 78 may allow the position of the power supply portion 70 to be maintained. The locking recess 78 may be configured to engage with a resilient protrusion on the case portion. In other words, the resilient protrusion on the cover portion (not shown) may interact with the locking recess 78 and lock the power supply portion 70 in a specified position until a user applies a force to rotate the power supply portion.

[0119] The power supply portion 70 may include a cavity opening 75 at its proximal end to a power supply cavity 74, as shown in FIG. 4C . The power supply cavity 74 may have a cross-sectional area slightly larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the cavity opening and the removable power supply that the power supply is configured to receive. The power supply cavities 74 may have a hexagonal cross-sectional area. Each of the power supply cavities 74 may have a biasing element 80 configured to be compressed. The biasing element 80 may be located at a closed end of the power supply cavity 74. The biasing element 80 may be operable to engage a removable power supply received within the power supply cavity. The biasing element 80 may include a resilient protrusion, a spring, or other biasing device. The biasing element 80 may enable easy removal of the removable power supply when such a removable power supply is not secured within the power supply cavity 74. The power supply cavity 74 may further include an electrical contact 82. The electrical contacts 82 may be configured to electrically couple to a power source received within the power source cavity 74 when the biasing element 80 is compressed by the power source. The electrical contacts 82 may electrically couple the power source to the controller, the heating element, or the charger port 76.

[0120] The power supply portion 70 may include a charger port 76. The charger port 76 may be located at the proximal end of the power supply portion, as shown in FIG. 4C. The charger port 76 may be located adjacent to or proximal to the cavity opening 75 of the power supply cavity 74. The charger port 76 may be configured to couple to a charging cable. The charger port 76 may be electrically coupled to electrical contacts 82 to provide power for charging the removable power supply. The charger port 76 may be operably coupled to a controller of the aerosol generating device.

[0121] Each power supply cavity 74 may include a retention element at the cavity opening 75. The retention element may include a resilient protrusion, a releasable tab, or other device for retaining the removable power supply within the power supply cavity 74. The retention element may be used when the aerosol generating device does not have a cover portion. When the retention element is released or removed, the biasing element 80 may push the head of the removable power supply out of the power supply cavity 74, allowing for easy removal of the removable power supply.

[0122] The aerosol generating device depicted in Figures 5A-5D illustrates an aerosol generating device 100 having a power supply portion 102 in various positions relative to a cover portion 104. The cover portion may include a window portion 106 configured to expose a portion of the proximal end of the power supply portion 102, as depicted in Figures 5A-5D. The power supply portion 102 and the cover portion 104 may be rotatably coupled by a mounting pin 108. The power supply portion 102 may be rotatable about the mounting pin 108. Alternatively, the cover portion 104 may be rotatable about the mounting pin 108.

[0123] Rotation of either the power supply portion 102 or the cover portion 104 to various locking positions may expose one of the charger ports 110 and one of the multiple power supply cavities 112A-112C, which may or may not have a removable power supply 114 received therein. FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate four different locking positions. In one locking position, the charger port 110 may be exposed by the window portion 106, as shown in FIG. 5A. In this locking position, the power supply cavities 112A-112C are covered, thereby securing any removable power supply received therein. In the other locking position, one of the power supply cavities 112A-112C is exposed, allowing the removable power supply 114 to be received in or removed from the exposed power supply cavity.

[0124] The power supply device illustrated in Figures 6A-6C illustrates a removable power supply 120 for an aerosol generating device such as that illustrated in Figures 1-5. The removable power supply 120 may include a body 122, electrical contacts 124, and a head 126.

[0125] The removable power source 120 may be an energy storage device. The energy storage device may include, for example, a battery, a lithium-ion battery, a rechargeable battery, a fuel cell, or other forms of energy storage. The body 122 may be configured to store energy. The stored energy may be electrical energy, chemical energy, or other forms of energy storage. In one embodiment, the removable power source is, for example, a Trustfire 10440, 600 mAh 3.7 V rechargeable Li-ion battery. The removable power source 120 may have an energy capacity in the range of approximately 250 mAh to approximately 600 mAh. The electrical contacts 124 may be configured to electrically couple with electrical contacts on the aerosol generating device or the charger case.

[0126] The removable power source 120 may have a hexagonal cross-sectional area. The head 126 may have a larger cross-sectional area than the body 122. A head 126 with a larger cross-sectional area than the body 122 may provide easier handling for a user. The body 122 may extend along a length or axis between the head 126 and the electrical contacts 124. In other words, the head 126 may be located at a distal end of the removable power source, and the electrical contacts may be located at a proximal end of the removable power source. The electrical contacts 124 may electrically couple energy stored within the removable power source 120 to an aerosol generating device, a charging case, a power source, or an energy-providing source. The electrical contacts 124 may comprise any suitable conductive material.

[0127] The aerosol generating device illustrated in FIG. 7 illustrates the interaction between the cover portion 152 and the removable power source 154 of the aerosol generating device 150. The aerosol generating device may also include a power source cavity 156 and a power source portion 158. The cover portion 152 may include a window portion. The removable power source 154 may be received or inserted into the power source cavity 156 through the window portion. When the power source portion 158 rotates, the cover portion 152 may engage with the removable power source 154 and push the removable power source further into the power source cavity 156 and against the biasing element. The cover portion 152 may include an angled edge 164 that allows the cover portion to smoothly push the removable power source 154 into and out of the power source cavity 156. Pressing the removable power source 154 against the biasing element may electrically couple electrical contacts of the removable power source 154 with electrical contacts of the aerosol generating device 150.

[0128] The charging case illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8D illustrates a charging case 170 that may include a case power supply 172 and a case housing 174. The case housing 174 may include a plurality of case cavities 176. Each of the case cavities 176 may be configured to receive at least one of a plurality of removable power sources 178. FIG. 8A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the charging case 170. FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the case cavity 176 side of the charging case 170. FIG. 8C is an overhead view of the mounting section 188 side of the charging case 170. FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view of the case power supply 172 side of the charging case 170.

[0129] Charging case 170 may be configured to charge one or more of a plurality of removable power sources 178 when received within a plurality of case cavities 176. Each of case cavities 176 may include a biasing element 180 at a closed end of the cavity to engage a removable power source 178 received therein. Each of case cavities 176 may include one or more electrical contacts 182 to electrically couple the received power source 178 to charging case 170. Electrical contacts 182 may be located at the closed end of case cavity 176. Electrical contacts 182 may comprise any suitable conductive material.

[0130] Charging case 170 may further include electronics 184 configured to charge one or more of the plurality of removable power sources 176 based on the current supply capabilities of case power source 172. Electronics 184 may be further configured to charge the plurality of removable power sources 176 based on the voltage of each of the plurality of removable power sources 176. Electronics 184 may include one or more processors, memories, logic units, or other circuitry to control the charging of the power sources.

[0131] The charging case may further include a charger port 186 for charging the case power supply 172, one or more of the plurality of removable power sources 172, or both the case power supply and one or more of the plurality of removable power sources. The charger port 186 may be operably coupled to the electronics 184, the case power supply 172, or the electrical contacts 182. The charger port 186 may include an interface for coupling to any suitable input or charging cable.

[0132] The charging case 170 may further include a mounting section 188 configured to receive the aerosol generating device. The mounting section may include one or more connectors 190 to releasably hold the aerosol generating device to the mounting section. The one or more connectors 190 may include one or more magnets or magnetic materials. Access to the case cavity 174 may be provided through the mounting section 188. The outer surface of the mounting section 188 may be shaped to receive the aerosol generating device. The mounting section 188 may include a wireless charging device for charging the aerosol generating device.

[0133] Charging case 170 may include a storage portion 192. Storage portion 192 may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article or an aerosol-generating device accessory.

[0134] The exemplary embodiments described above are not limiting, and other embodiments consistent with the exemplary embodiments described above will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. 1. A charging case for an aerosol generating device, comprising: a case connector for receiving power from an external power source; a plurality of case cavities, each configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power sources; a mounting section for connecting the aerosol generating device to the charging case, the mounting section including one or more connectors for connecting the aerosol generating device to the charging case, access to the case cavity being provided through the mounting section, and an open end of the case cavity being exposed upon removal of the aerosol generating device from the mounting section; A case control unit comprising: charging a first power source of the plurality of power sources via the case connector using power from the external power source; and a case control unit arranged to charge the aerosol generating device connected to the mounting section via a second power source of the plurality of power sources; A charging case, wherein each of the power sources is removable and insertable into any one of the plurality of case cavities.

2. The charging case of claim 1 , wherein the case control unit is arranged to charge the plurality of power sources via the case connectors using power from the external power source.

3. The charging case according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer surface of the mounting section is shaped to receive the aerosol generating device.

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