Aerosol generator with dual battery heating device

Abstract

The aerosol generating device (100) comprises a first power source (120), an aerosolizer (110) configured to receive power from the first power source and to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substrate (170), a second power source (130), and a heating circuit (160) configured to receive power from the second power source and heat the first power source.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR AEROSOL GENERATION FIELD OF THE INVENTION Some aerosol generating devices include a power source. [Background technology]

[0002] Batteries are known and used as power sources for portable devices, including aerosol generators. Some batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries, have the capability of high power storage capacity to operate aerosol generators for longer periods of time. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may include a first power source and a second power source. The aerosol generating device may also include a heating circuit. The heating circuit may be configured to receive power from the first power source for heating the second power source in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source falling below a first temperature threshold. The aerosol generating device may also include an aerosolizer. The aerosolizer may be operably coupled to the first power source and may be configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate in response to a temperature exceeding a second temperature threshold.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided. The method may include detecting a temperature of a first power source or a second power source. The method may also include, in response to the temperature falling below a first temperature threshold, heating the second power source using a heating circuit that receives power from the first power source. The method may further include, in response to the temperature exceeding a second temperature threshold, generating an aerosol from an aerosolizer using power from the first power source.

[0005] Including at least one secondary power source in a device or method may facilitate high-capacity operation over a wide temperature range, particularly at low temperatures where the first power source may be ineffective. The use of a second power source may facilitate increased overall battery capacity during operation at lower temperature ranges, for example, by using the first power source when adequately heated or by using the first power source for short periods of time to heat the second power source while below a threshold temperature. The use of a second power source may also enable designs that facilitate faster heating of the aerosol-generating substrate in low-temperature ranges, for example, by bringing the first power source to temperature more quickly or by using the second power source to begin heating the aerosol-generating substrate before the first power source is at the appropriate temperature. Furthermore, the use of a second power source to heat the first power source in low-temperature ranges may facilitate extended life of the first power source.

[0006] In one or more aspects, the second power source may be sized and shaped to heat up faster than the first power source. In one example, the second power source may have a larger surface area per unit volume than the first power source. A larger surface area per unit volume may facilitate faster heating.

[0007] The first power source may have a cylindrical shape. The second power source may have a planar shape. In one embodiment, the first power source, the second power source, or both may be formed as a thin-film battery. In some embodiments, the first power source, the second power source, or both may be formed by printing onto a substrate. Printing one or more power sources onto a substrate may facilitate ease of manufacturing compared to assembling multiple individual power sources on a substrate.

[0008] In one or more aspects, the secondary power source may be removably coupled to the heating circuit. Removable coupling to the heating circuit may allow for a disposable or replaceable power source to be used as the secondary power source.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the first power source may be permanently coupled to the aerosolizer. The first power source may benefit from improved lifetime through use of the second power source at lower temperatures, which may allow battery chemistries with greater energy storage capacity to be used.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the heating circuit may be activated or the temperature of the first power source or the second power source may be detected in response to movement detected by the motion sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature of the heating circuit or the first power source may be detected in response to turning on the aerosol generating device.

[0011] In one or more aspects, the first power source may have a higher energy storage capacity than the second power source. The first power source may have a larger physical volume than the second power source.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating device may include a heating circuit configured to heat one or both of the first power source and the second power source, and in particular, the heating circuit may be configured to heat the second power source faster than the first power source.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the heating circuit may be configured to receive power from the first power source, the second power source, or both. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol generating device may include a capacitor for storing electrical energy, which may be used in addition to or instead of providing power to the heating circuit to heat the first power source, the second power source, or both.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, a second power source may be operably coupled to the aerosolizer to provide power to the aerosolizer when the temperature exceeds a first temperature threshold. The second power source may provide power to the aerosolizer until the temperature exceeds a second temperature threshold. The second temperature threshold may be higher than the first temperature threshold.

[0015] The controller of the aerosol generating device may be configured to detect the temperature of the first power source, the second power source, or both. The controller may be operably coupled to one or more temperature sensors. The temperature sensors may be actively or passively powered.

[0016] In one or more aspects, the heating circuit may be configured to receive power from the first power source to heat the second power source when the temperature of the second power source is below a first temperature threshold. In particular, the temperature of the second power source may be compared to the first temperature threshold. In response to the temperature of the second power source exceeding the first temperature threshold, the heating circuit may power supply The second power source may be configured to receive power from the second power source to heat the first power source when the temperature of the first power source falls below a second temperature threshold. In particular, the temperature of the first power source may be compared to a second temperature threshold. After the temperature of the first power source exceeds the second temperature threshold, the first power source may be used to provide power to the aerosolizer. The second power source may also be recharged using the first power source.

[0017] Below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more features of which may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0018] Example 1: An aerosol-generating device includes a first power source, a second power source, a heating circuit configured to receive power from the first power source and heat the second power source in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source falling below a first temperature threshold, and an aerosolizer operably coupled to the first power source and configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate in response to a temperature exceeding a second temperature threshold.

[0019] Example 2: A method includes detecting a temperature of a first power source or a second power source, heating the second power source using a heating circuit that receives power from the first power source in response to the temperature being below a first temperature threshold, and generating an aerosol from an aerosolizer using power from the first power source in response to the temperature being above a second temperature threshold.

[0020] Example 3: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-2, wherein the second power source is sized and shaped to heat faster than the first power source.

[0021] Example 4: An apparatus or method according to any of Examples 1-3, wherein the second power source has a larger surface area per unit volume than the first power source.

[0022] Example 5: An apparatus or method according to any of Examples 1-4, wherein the first power source has a cylindrical shape.

[0023] Example 6: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-5, wherein the second power source has a planar shape.

[0024] Example 7: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-6, wherein the first power source or the second power source comprises a thin film battery.

[0025] Example 8: An apparatus or method according to any of Examples 1-7, wherein the first power source has a higher energy storage capacity than the second power source.

[0026] Example 9: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-8, wherein the first power source has a larger volume than the second power source.

[0027] Example 10: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-9, wherein the heating circuit is configured to heat the second power source faster than the first power source.

[0028] Example 11: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-10, wherein the heating circuit is further configured to receive power from a first power source, a second power source, or both.

[0029] Example 12: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-11, wherein the heating circuit is further configured to receive power from a capacitor to heat the first power source, the second power source, or both.

[0030] Example 13: The device or method of any of Examples 1-12, wherein a second power source provides power to the aerosolizer when the temperature exceeds a first temperature threshold.

[0031] Example 14: The apparatus or method of Example 13, wherein the second power source provides power to the aerosolizer until the temperature exceeds a second temperature threshold.

[0032] Example 15: The apparatus or method of example 13 or 14, wherein in response to the temperature exceeding a second temperature threshold, the second power source is recharged using the first power source.

[0033] Example 16: An apparatus or method according to any of Examples 13-15, wherein the second temperature threshold is a temperature higher than the first temperature threshold.

[0034] Example 17: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-16, further comprising a controller configured to detect a temperature of the first power source, the second power source, or both.

[0035] Example 18: An apparatus or method according to any of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the temperature of the second power source is compared to a first temperature threshold and the temperature of the first power source is compared to a second temperature threshold.

[0036] Example 19: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-18, wherein the first power source or the second power source is formed on the substrate by printing.

[0037] Example 20: The apparatus or method of any of Examples 1-19, wherein a second power source is removably coupled to the heating circuit.

[0038] Example 21: A device or method according to any of Examples 1-20, wherein the first power source is non-removably coupled to the aerosolizer.

[0039] Example 22: A device or method according to any of Examples 1-21, wherein the heating circuit is activated or the temperature is detected in response to movement detected by the motion sensor.

[0040] Example 23: A device or method according to any of Examples 1 to 21, wherein a heating circuit is activated or a temperature is detected in response to turning on the aerosol generating device.

[0041] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the following figures: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0042] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an aerosol generating device with a dual battery heating device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first power supply. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the second power supply. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a flow diagram of one embodiment of a method for using a dual battery heating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] Lithium-ion battery operation can be problematic at low temperatures. These cold conditions can reduce both the battery capacity and the voltage a battery can generate at its terminals. This can degrade or even render a device powered by a lithium-ion battery inoperable. For example, if a device equipped with a battery is used when the battery capacity falls below a specified level (typically 5 or 10%), the device may be configured to shut off to protect it from potential use while its energy supply is cut off, potentially leaving it in an unrecoverable state. Also, if the battery's voltage output falls below an expected level, electronic devices powered by the battery may fail or function in an erratic and unpredictable manner. When the battery returns to normal conditions, it may begin operating normally, but the device it is powering may need to be reset to allow the device to resume normal operation. However, attempting to charge a lithium-ion battery at low temperatures can lead to lithium plating onto the anode, resulting in irreversible damage. This damage can accumulate over time and, if continued, may, at some point, leave the battery inoperable. Therefore, it may be advantageous to maintain the battery at a higher temperature to allow it to operate at a preferred voltage and battery capacity, and to allow it to be charged.

[0044] Lithium battery capacity generally decreases with temperature, even at temperatures considered normal. For example, the capacity of a lithium-ion battery may decrease as the battery's temperature decreases, even above 0°C. The capacity reduction may be more pronounced as temperatures approach 0°C and may be considered significant below 0°C. Device operation may be problematic at these low temperatures. Additionally, charging the battery may be detrimental to its lifespan at these low temperatures, depending on both device and battery design. Typically, temperatures above the 0°C to 5°C range (depending on battery design) may be considered normal for charging, while temperatures below this level may be considered disadvantageously cold.

[0045] The present disclosure relates to restoring a battery to a favorable state by applying heat when the battery enters a cold state. The heat may be applied by the device itself, allowing for self-heating. When the battery returns to a higher temperature, the capacity may also return to a favorable state, and the battery output may return to normal and perform in a more predictable manner.

[0046] During heating from a cold state, the battery may remain at a disadvantage. This duration may be extended due to the battery's shape factor. For example, some batteries have a cylindrical shape. Heat applied to the outer surface of such a battery may take some time to propagate to the battery's internal volume. Complete heating, depending on the battery's shape, may facilitate more rapid heating. In one example, the entire surface area of ​​a flat battery may be positioned in close proximity to a heater or heating circuit. However, such a flat battery shape may not be practical for providing a high energy capacity within an aerosol generating device compared to a cylindrical shape.

[0047] The present disclosure relates to providing an energy storage unit within an aerosol generating device to meet both the requirements of quickly heating the battery to an operable temperature and being able to store enough energy for multiple uses of the device.

[0048] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device 100 that may include various components to facilitate a dual-battery heating device for use at low temperatures. The aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one of an aerosolizer 110, a first power source 120, a second power source 130, a controller 140, an optional non-battery power source 150, a heating circuit 160, and an aerosol-generating substrate 170. The device 100 may also include one or more other components, such as a housing 105, a mouthpiece, an external device interface, an actuator, a communication interface, a display, a speaker, a switch, and a puff sensor. Although shown separately, in some embodiments, the aerosolizer 110 and the heating circuit 160 may be part of the same heating system. The first power source 120, the second power source 130, or both may be batteries. Each battery may be disposable or rechargeable.

[0049] As illustrated, the device may include at least two power sources, such as a first power source 120 and a second power source 130. Although only one of each power source is shown, more than one of each power source may be provided.

[0050] The design of each power source may be optimized for different purposes. The first power source 120 may be optimized for energy storage capacity. The second power source 130 may be optimized for rapid heating of the first power source 120. The second power source 130 may have a size, shape, and location within the device to facilitate rapid heating, while the first power source 120 may have a configuration that allows for efficient storage of large amounts of energy. In one embodiment, the second power source 130 may have a shape and location within the device 100 to facilitate easier rapid heating, such as having a flat configuration with a large surface area in close proximity to the heating circuit 160. In some cases, this configuration may be used when the second power source 130 can be printed on the same substrate as the other electronics of the device 100.

[0051] In one or more embodiments, the first power source 120 may have a higher energy storage capacity than the second power source 130. The first power source 120 may have a larger physical volume than the second power source 130. In one embodiment, the first power source 120 and the second power source 130 may have the same general shape, but the first power source 120 may be larger than the second power source 130 and may have a smaller surface area per unit volume than the second power source.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, the second power source 130 may be configured to heat up faster than the first power source 120. The second power source 130 may be sized and configured to facilitate faster heating compared to the first power source 120. In one embodiment, the second power source 130 may have a larger surface area per unit volume than the first power source 120. The larger surface area per unit volume may facilitate faster heating.

[0053] The shape of the power source may refer to the surface area per unit volume. In one embodiment, the first power source 120 may have a cylindrical shape. The second power source 130 may have a planar shape, such as a rectangular cone that is wide and deep, but relatively thin. In one embodiment, the first power source 120, the second power source 130, or both may be formed as a thin-film battery. In some embodiments, the first power source 120, the second power source 130, or both may be formed by printing onto an electronics substrate. The non-battery power source 150 may also be printed onto the substrate. The substrate may be a printed circuit board (PCB), which may mechanically or electrically couple the first power source and the second power source to other components of the aerosol generating device.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a heating circuit configured to heat one or both of the first power source and the second power source. In particular, the heating circuit may be configured to heat the second power source faster than the first power source. The heating circuit may be thermally coupled to one or both of the first power source and the second power source. The heating circuit may be electrically coupled to one or both of the first power source and the second power source. In one embodiment, the heating circuit may be directly thermally coupled to the second power source with a higher thermal conductivity than the thermal coupling to the first power source. In another embodiment, the thermal conductivity between the heating circuit and the first and second power sources may be managed by a controller.

[0055] In some embodiments, at low temperatures, the device 100 may perform a process of heating the first power source 120 or the second power source 130 using a heating circuit 160, which may use energy from the first power source 120, the second power source 130, or another energy or power source 150, such as a capacitor or supercapacitor.

[0056] The second power source 130 may be designed for rapid heating. Thus, the time period for the second power source 130 to heat up to a particular temperature may be faster than the first power source 120, even when the same heating is applied. The second power source 130 may also have a shorter lifespan than the first power source 120, which is designed for energy storage. In some cases, the second power source 130 may be a replaceable power source (see FIG. 2).

[0057] In some embodiments, more than one power source may be included and used for one or both of the first or second power sources. In one example, multiple small power sources may be used. The small power sources may be easily and quickly heated to reach full capacity. The small power sources may then generate heat, which may be used in part to enable use of the device or in part to heat another small power source. Heating of the small power source may continue. In one example, multiple small power sources may be printed on the substrate of the electronic device. Each small power source may represent a division or segment of a larger power source. In one example, a single battery may be used for the first power source 120, and multiple small batteries may be used for the second power source 130.

[0058] The controller 140 of the aerosol generating device 100 may be configured to detect the temperature of the first power source 120 or the second power source 130 individually, or at least detect temperatures indicative of the temperatures of the first power source 120 and the second power source 130, such as the ambient temperature proximate either or both of the power sources. The controller 140 may be operatively coupled to or include a temperature sensor used to detect such temperatures. The temperature sensor may be actively or passively powered.

[0059] In some embodiments, heating of the first power source 120 or the second power source 130 may be signaled by one or more sensors on the device 100, such as a motion sensor or a temperature sensor, that provide information that the device will soon be placed in a cold condition. For example, a motion sensor may detect when the device 100 is removed from a pocket or placed on lips. In another example, a temperature sensor may detect the external temperature to which the device 100 is exposed and whether the device has cooled. In such a case, heating of the first power source 120 by the heating circuit 160 may be implemented to stop the first power source 120 from cooling down and therefore exhibiting degraded performance.

[0060] In one or more embodiments, the heating circuit 160 may be activated or the temperature may be detected in response to movement detected by a motion sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the temperature of the heating circuit 160 or first power supply 120 may be detected in response to turning on the aerosol generating device 100.

[0061] The aerosol device charger may be external to the aerosol generating device and removably coupleable to the aerosol generating device for charging one or more of the power sources of the device 100. For example, the device 100 may include an external device interface, which may include a charging interface that may be operably coupled to an interface of the charger. The charger may be portable, allowing a user to hold and transport the aerosol generating device coupled to the charger. One example of a charger is the IQOS charger sold by Philip Morris Products SA (Neuchatel, Switzerland).

[0062] The housing 105 of the device 100 may be used to house the components. Some of the components may be coupled to the housing 105. The housing 105 may be provided with a size and shape suitable for being held by a user's hand and for being drawn into by the user's mouth. The housing 105 may be integrally formed in one piece, or may be multiple pieces removably coupled together.

[0063] The aerosol generating device may include a controller portion and a consumable portion. The housing 105 may be divided between the controller portion and the consumable portion. Generally, the controller portion may include components that are not intended to be replaced, and the consumable portion may include components that are intended to be replaced over the useful life of the aerosol generating device. For example, the controller portion may include a switch, a puff sensor, at least a portion of the aerosolizer 110, the heating circuit 160, the controller 140, the first power source 120, the second power source 130, an actuator, a communication interface, a display, or a speaker. The consumable portion may include, for example, the aerosol-generating substrate, a portion of the aerosolizer, and optionally, the second power source 130. The controller and consumable portion may be permanently or removably coupled together. The consumable portion may be replaced in its entirety, or various components of the consumable portion may be removed and replaced. The consumable portion may also be described as a mouth portion and may include a mouthpiece to facilitate easy puffing by the user.

[0064] The aerosol-generating substrate 170 may take any suitable form. For example, the substrate 170 may be solid or liquid. The substrate 170 may be coupled to a consumable portion of a housing or may be contained within a substrate housing or cartridge. The aerosolizer 110 may be operably coupled to the aerosol-generating substrate 170 and generate an aerosol when activated.

[0065] The aerosolizer 110 may also be coupled to the housing 105 of the device 100. Part or all of the aerosolizer 110 may be coupled to the consumable portion of the housing 105. Part or all of the aerosolizer may be coupled to the controller portion of the housing 105.

[0066] The aerosolizer 110 may utilize any suitable technique for generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate 170. In some cases, the aerosolizer 110 may be thermally or fluidly coupled to the aerosol-generating substrate 170. The aerosolizer 110 may be adaptable for use with various types of aerosol-generating substrates.

[0067] The aerosolizer 110 may include a heater, a heater coil, a chemical heat source (such as a carbon heat source), or any suitable means for heating the substrate 170 to generate an aerosol. The aerosolizer 110 may be coupled to a controller portion of the housing 105 to receive power from the first power source 120 or the second power source 130 and may be disposed adjacent to the substrate 170. For example, the aerosolizer 110 may be provided in the form of a heater, and the substrate 170 may be contained within a substrate housing. The heating element of the heater may be disposed adjacent to the substrate housing and may be heated to generate an aerosol from a liquid or solid substrate. A portion of the aerosolizer may also be coupled to a consumable portion of the housing 105. For example, a heater coil may include a susceptor coupled to the consumable portion and an induction coil coupled to a controller portion configured to transfer energy to the susceptor to heat the substrate.

[0068] The aerosolizer 110 may include an atomizer. A liquid aerosol-generating substrate may be contained within a substrate housing and in fluid communication with the atomizer. The atomizer may mechanically generate the aerosol from the liquid substrate.

[0069] The aerosolizer 110 may be compatible for use with an aerosol-generating substrate having a nicotine source and a lactic acid source. The nicotine source may include a sorption element, such as a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) wick, having nicotine adsorbed thereon, which may be inserted into a chamber forming a first compartment. The lactic acid source may include a sorption element, such as a PTFE wick, having lactic acid adsorbed thereon, which may be inserted into a chamber forming a second compartment. The aerosolizer 110 may include a heater for heating both the nicotine source and the lactic acid source. The nicotine vapor may then react with the lactic acid vapor in the gas phase to form an aerosol.

[0070] The switch may be coupled to the controller portion of the housing 105 and operably coupled to the controller 140. The switch may be located in or on the housing 105 so as to be accessible by a user. The switch may utilize any suitable mechanism for accepting input from a user. For example, the switch may include a button or a lever. The switch may be activated or deactivated in response to being pressed, toggled, or otherwise manipulated by a user.

[0071] A switch may be associated with one or more functions. In particular, engagement of a switch may initiate various functions of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the aerosolizer 110 may be activated in response to engagement of a switch. The switch may be engaged to turn on (e.g., activate) power to the aerosolizer 110 or other components, and may be released to turn off (e.g., deactivate) power to the aerosolizer 110 or other components.

[0072] In addition to, or as an alternative to, a switch, a puff sensor may be operably coupled to the aerosolizer to activate the aerosolizer. The puff sensor may be operably coupled to the controller 140 of the aerosol generating device 100. The puff sensor may detect inhalation of the mouthpiece of the consumable portion by a user. The puff sensor may be positioned in an airflow channel within the aerosol generating device to detect when a user inhales or puffs on the device 100. Puffs may be detected by the controller 140 using the puff sensor. Non-limiting types of puff sensors may include one or more of a vibrating membrane, a piezoelectric sensor, a mesh-like membrane, a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive pressure sensor), and an airflow switch.

[0073] The switch may be described as part of the user interface of the aerosol generating device 100. The user interface may include any component that interacts with any one of the user's senses, such as touch, sight, hearing, taste, or smell.

[0074] The speaker may also be described as part of the user interface. The speaker may be coupled to the controller portion of the housing 105. The speaker may be located within or on the housing 105, allowing the user to hear sounds generated by the speaker. The speaker may be of any size and type suitable for generating sounds for the portable aerosol generating device. The speaker may be simple or may include a buzzer to generate one or more sounds. The speaker may have higher fidelity than a buzzer and may be capable of providing vocal or even musical sounds.

[0075] The display may also be described as part of the user interface. The display may be coupled to the controller portion of the housing 105. The display may be located within or on the housing 105 so that the display is visible to the user. The display may be of any size and type suitable for displaying images on the portable aerosol generating device. The display may be simple and may include a single light source, such as a light-emitting diode, to generate one or more pixels or one or more colors. The display may have a higher resolution than a single light source and may be capable of displaying images.

[0076] The external device interface of the aerosol generating device 100 may include a communication interface. The communication interface may be coupled to a controller portion of the housing 105. The communication interface may be located within the housing 105 or may be located on the housing 105.

[0077] The communication interface may be operatively coupled to another device and may be used to communicate data over a wired or wireless connection. The communication interface may be connected to one or more networks. For example, the communication interface may be connected to a low-power wide-area network (LPWAN), such as one using technology from the Sigfox company or the LoRa Alliance organization.

[0078] The communication interface may be operably coupled to a remote user device. For example, the remote user device may be a smartphone, tablet, or other device remote from the aerosol generating device. The remote user device may include its own communication interface to connect to the aerosol generating device. The communication interface of the aerosol generating device may be connected to the Internet directly, through the remote user device (e.g., a smartphone), or indirectly through a network such as an LPWAN.

[0079] The communication interface may include an antenna for wireless communication. The wireless communication interface may utilize a Bluetooth protocol, such as Bluetooth Low Energy. The communication interface may include a mini universal serial bus (mini USB) port for wired communication. The wired communication interface may also be used as a power connection for charging.

[0080] Any suitable external power source may be used to recharge the first power source, the second power source, or even the capacitor. The external device interface may be integral with or separate from the wired communication interface and may include a charging interface operatively coupled to the first power source 120, the second power source 130, the non-battery power source 150, or any combination thereof to recharge the power source. Each power source 120, 130, 150 may be coupled to a controller portion of the housing 105.

[0081] Each power source 120, 130, 150 may be disposed within or on the housing 105. Each power source 120, 130, 150 may be removably coupled (intended to be replaced) or permanently coupled (not intended to be replaced) to the housing 105. A permanent power source may also be described as a non-removably or non-removably coupled power source.

[0082] Each power source 120, 130, 150 may provide power to the various components. Each power source 120, 130, 150 may be operably coupled to at least the aerosolizer 110. Each power source 120, 130, 150 may be operably coupled to the aerosolizer 110 using the controller 140.

[0083] In some embodiments, a first power source 120 may be operably coupled to the aerosolizer 110 to provide power. The first power source 120 may be operably coupled to a second power source 130 to charge the second power source, or to a non-battery power source 150 to charge the non-battery power source. The first power source 120 may be operably coupled to a heating circuit 160 to provide power for heating one or more of the power sources. The second power source 120 may be operably coupled to a heating circuit 160 to provide power for heating one or more of the power sources. The non-battery power source 150 may be operably coupled to a heating circuit 160 to provide power for heating one or more of the power sources. A controller 140 may be operably coupled between any of the power sources and the heating circuit 160 to manage the source of power to the heating circuit 160.

[0084] 2 shows one embodiment of an aerosol generation device 200 that includes many of the same components as the device 100 of FIG. 1. The device 200 differs in that the second power source 230 may be removable and replaceable. In particular, the second power source 230 may be removably coupled to the heating circuit 160. Additionally or alternatively, the second power source 230 may be removably coupled to the aerosolizer 110, the controller 140, the first power source 120, or even the non-battery power source 150. The second power source 230 may be received within a compartment 232 within the housing 205 of the device 200. Removable coupling to the heating circuit may allow for a disposable or replaceable type of power source to be used as the second power source 130.

[0085] The shape of the power source may contribute to the rate of heating, particularly the threshold temperature. Figure 3 shows one embodiment of a first power source 120 that may be used in device 100 or device 200 as a cylindrical battery. Figure 4 shows one embodiment of a second power source 130 that may be used in device 100 or device 200 as a flat, planar battery. In general, the rate of heat dissipation and the rate at which a power source heats up are proportional to the surface area to volume ratio of a particular power source. The flat, planar shape of second power source 130 may be more suitable for rapid heating.

[0086] In some embodiments (not shown), first power source 120 may have a flat shape (e.g., similar to a cell phone battery). First power source 120 may be larger than second power source 130 and therefore may consume more energy to heat. A smaller second power source 130 may have the same shape as first power source 120 but consume less energy to heat.

[0087] FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a method for using a dual battery heating device. Method 300 may include, in block 302, heating a second power source until the temperature exceeds a first temperature threshold. The temperature compared to the first temperature threshold may be an indication of the temperature of the second power source. The first temperature threshold may represent a minimum operating temperature for the second power source. A heating circuit may be used to heat the second power source. The heating circuit may be powered by the first power source, the second power source, or even a non-battery power source such as a capacitor. In one embodiment, a first power source having a larger capacity than the second power source may be used.

[0088] The method 300 may also include, at block 304, heating the first power supply using a heating circuit powered by the second power supply until the temperature exceeds a second temperature threshold. The temperature compared to the second temperature threshold may be an indication of the temperature of the first power supply. The second temperature threshold may represent a minimum operating temperature for the first power supply. In some cases, the second temperature threshold may be higher than the first temperature threshold.

[0089] In some cases, heating of individual power sources may be used. In other cases, the power sources may be heated together. Similarly, sensing the temperature of individual power sources may be used. In other cases, the temperature of a power source may be represented by a single temperature measurement or value.

[0090] In some embodiments, the second power source may also be used to begin powering the aerosolizer before the temperature reaches a second temperature threshold that may allow use of the aerosol generating device. Powering the aerosolizer and use of the aerosol generating device may increase the temperature of the first power source in addition to, or as an alternative to, powering a heating circuit to directly heat the first power source.

[0091] Method 300 may further include, in block 306, heating the aerosol-generating substrate using the first power source in response to reaching a second temperature threshold. Optionally, the second power source may continue to be used simultaneously with the first power source to heat the aerosolizer. In some cases, after the first power source reaches the second temperature threshold, the second power source may be recharged using the first power source to make the second power source ready for the next use of the device.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: Housing and a first power source disposed within or on the housing; a second power source disposed within or on the housing; a heating circuit configured to receive power from the first power source to heat the second power source in response to a temperature of the first power source or the second power source falling below a first temperature threshold, and to receive power from the second power source to heat the first power source in response to a temperature of the second power source exceeding the first temperature threshold when the temperature of the first power source falls below a second temperature threshold; an aerosolizer operably coupled to the first power source and configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substrate in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeding the second temperature threshold.

2. 1. A method comprising: Detecting a temperature of a first power source or a second power source, wherein the first power source and the second power source are disposed within or on a housing; heating the second power source using a heating circuit receiving power from the first power source in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source falling below a first temperature threshold; heating the first power source using a heating circuit receiving power from the second power source in response to the temperature of the second power source exceeding the first temperature threshold when the temperature of the first power source is below a second temperature threshold; generating an aerosol from an aerosolizer using power from the first power source in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeding the second temperature threshold.

3. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the second power source is sized and shaped to heat up faster than the first power source.

4. 4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the second power source has a larger surface area per unit volume than the first power source.

5. 5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the first power source has a higher energy storage capacity than the second power source.

6. 6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the first power source has a larger volume than the second power source.

7. 7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heating circuit is configured to heat the second power source faster than the first power source.

8. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 and 3 to 7, wherein the heating circuit is further configured to receive power from a capacitor to heat the first power source, the second power source, or both.

9. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 and 3 to 8, wherein the second power source provides power to the aerosolizer when the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeds the first temperature threshold.

10. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 and 3 to 9, wherein the second power source provides power to the aerosolizer until the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeds the second temperature threshold.

11. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 and 3 to 10, wherein the second power source is recharged using the first power source in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeding the second temperature threshold.

12. 12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the second temperature threshold is higher than the first temperature threshold.

13. 13. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 and 3 to 12, further comprising a controller configured to detect the temperature of the first power supply, the second power supply, or both.

14. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 and 3 to 13, wherein the temperature of the second power source is compared to the first temperature threshold, and the temperature of the first power source is compared to the second temperature threshold.

15. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 and 3 to 14, wherein the heating circuit is activated or the temperature of the first power source or the second power source is detected in response to turning on the aerosol generating device.

16. An aerosol generating device, comprising: Housing and a first power source disposed within or on the housing; a second power source disposed within or on the housing; a heating circuit configured to receive power from the first power source and heat the second power source in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source falling below a first temperature threshold; an aerosolizer operably coupled to the first power source and configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substrate in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeding a second temperature threshold; The aerosol generating device, wherein the second power source provides power to the aerosolizer when the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeds the first temperature threshold.

17. An aerosol generating device, comprising: Housing and a first power source disposed within or on the housing; a second power source disposed within or on the housing; a heating circuit configured to receive power from the first power source and heat the second power source in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source falling below a first temperature threshold; an aerosolizer operably coupled to the first power source and configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substrate in response to the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeding a second temperature threshold; The aerosol generating device, wherein the second power source provides power to the aerosolizer until the temperature of the first power source or the second power source exceeds a second temperature threshold.

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