Control unit for aerosol generator

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

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

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an aerosol generating device having a temperature sensor configured to measure the ambient temperature during use. In the device described in Patent Document 1, when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor exceeds a threshold value during use, the device remains in a standby mode after the temperature measurement, or when the temperature is below the threshold value, the standby mode ends. It is also described that the device can be made inoperable when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor exceeds a limit threshold value during use.

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

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

[0006] The first feature is a control unit for an aerosol generator, comprising: a sensor that outputs a value relating to the temperature of a rechargeable power supply capable of discharging to a load that atomizes an aerosol source; and a control unit configured to perform a function to operate the power supply when the output value of the sensor falls within a first range having at least one of a first upper limit and a first lower limit, wherein the first upper limit or the first lower limit is smaller than or larger than a second upper limit or second lower limit of a second range which is a range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which the function can be performed, a range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which the power supply deteriorates, a range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which the power supply deteriorates only due to the same factors as room temperature, or a range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power supply.

[0007] Here, the temperature-related value may be the temperature itself, or it may be a different physical quantity, such as a physical quantity that can be converted to temperature. In other words, the temperature-related value may be a physical quantity that correlates with temperature. Examples of physical quantities that can be converted to or correlated with temperature may be the electrical resistance value of a resistor installed near the power supply or attached to the surface of the power supply, or the voltage drop (potential difference) across the resistor. The sensor may be any sensor that can acquire a temperature-related value of the power supply, such as a thermistor. For example, if the temperature-related value of the power supply is the temperature itself, the sensor may be a temperature sensor. If the temperature-related value of the power supply is the voltage drop, the sensor may be a voltage sensor.

[0008] Here, a function that manipulates the power supply, when executed, directly or indirectly affects the power supply in some way. This refers to actions that have an indirect effect. Examples of this function include charging and discharging, which changes the remaining capacity of the power supply, and detecting or estimating the state of the power supply, which is used as an input for control that affects the power supply. Note that since the power supply temperature is already obtained before the function is executed, the acquisition of the power supply temperature is excluded from this function.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0017] The tenth feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device in the seventh feature, wherein at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, is greater than or equal to the amount of change corresponding to the temperature change until the temperature of the power supply is transmitted to the sensor or the electronic component, or the absolute value of the difference between the output value of the sensor in the case of no error and the true value of the temperature of the power supply, plus the maximum value of the error in the output value relative to the input value of the sensor.

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

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

[0020] The 13th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 12th features, and the gist is that the function includes at least one of discharging, charging, and deterioration diagnosis of the power source.

[0021] The 14th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 13th features, and the gist is that the second upper limit is the temperature at which a change in the structure or composition of the electrode or electrolyte in the power source occurs.

[0022] The 15th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 14th features, and the gist is that the function includes at least one of discharging and deterioration diagnosis of the power source, and the second upper limit is 60°C.

[0023] The 16th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 15th features, and the gist is that the function includes at least one of discharging and deterioration diagnosis of the power source, and the first upper limit is 54°C.

[0024] The 17th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 14th features, and the gist is that the function is charging of the power source, and the second upper limit is 45°C.

[0025] The 18th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 14th features or the 17th feature, and the gist is that the function is charging of the power source, and the first upper limit is 39°C.

[0026] The 19th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 16th features, and the gist is that the function is charging of the power source, and the second lower limit is the temperature at which electrodeposition occurs in the power source.

[0027] The 20th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 16th features or the 19th feature, and the gist is that the 2nd lower limit is 0°C.

[0028] The 21st feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 16th features, the 19th feature, and the 20th feature, and the gist is that the 1st lower limit is 6°C.

[0029] The 22nd feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 16th features or the 19th feature, the function includes at least one of discharging and deterioration diagnosis of the power supply, and the gist is that the 2nd lower limit is -10°C.

[0030] The 23rd feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 16th features, the 19th feature, and the 20th feature, the function includes at least one of discharging and deterioration diagnosis of the power supply, and the gist is that the 1st lower limit is -4°C.

[0031] The 24th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 23rd features, the control unit is configured to be capable of executing a plurality of the functions, and the gist is that the 1st range is different for each of the functions.

[0032] The 25th feature is a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to any one of the 1st to 24th features, the control unit is configured to be capable of executing a plurality of the functions, and the gist is that at least one of the 1st upper limit, the 1st lower limit, the 2nd upper limit, the 2nd lower limit, the difference between the 2nd upper limit and the 1st upper limit, and the difference between the 2nd lower limit and the 1st lower limit is the same in a plurality of the functions.

[0033] The 26th feature is an aerosol generating device comprising a control unit as described in any of the 1st to 25th features, and a load for atomizing the aerosol source.

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

[0035] The 28th feature is essentially a program that causes a computer to execute the method described in the 27th feature. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0036] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an exploded view showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an atomizing unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the power supply unit. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a disassembled perspective view showing a portion of the power supply unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a block diagram of the aerosol generation apparatus. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the electrical circuit of the power supply unit. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the electrical circuits of the atomization unit and power supply unit, including the load. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the control flow during power supply discharge. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the control flow during power supply charging. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows the temperature of the power supply 10 and whether or not each function can be performed. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the control flow during power supply discharge in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the control flow for charging the power supply in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows the electrical circuits of the power supply unit and charging unit in the third embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a block diagram of the charging unit. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows the control flow on the charging unit side during power supply charging in the third embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows the control flow on the power supply unit side during power supply charging in the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0037] Embodiments will be described below. In the following drawings, identical or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic, and the proportions of the dimensions may differ from those of reality.

[0038] Therefore, specific dimensions should be determined by referring to the following explanation. Furthermore, it is important to note that there may be differences in the relationships and ratios of dimensions between different drawings.

[0039] [Summary of Disclosure] According to one embodiment, a control unit for an aerosol generator includes a sensor that outputs a value relating to the temperature of a power supply that is rechargeable and can be discharged to a load that atomizes an aerosol source, and a control unit configured to perform a function to operate the power supply when the output value of the sensor falls within a first range having at least one of a first upper limit and a first lower limit. The first upper limit or first lower limit is smaller than or larger than a second upper limit or second lower limit of a second range which is a range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which the function can be performed, a range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which the power supply deteriorates, a range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which the power supply deteriorates only due to the same factors as room temperature, or a range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power supply.

[0040] Temperature sensors have unavoidable measurement and manufacturing errors, so the output value of the temperature sensor may deviate from the true value of the power supply temperature. Unless otherwise specified, "true value of the power supply temperature" below refers to the accurate value of the power supply temperature. In other words, the output value of an ideal temperature sensor, free from measurement and manufacturing errors, would coincide with the "true value of the power supply temperature." Therefore, if a function is configured to operate the power supply when the sensor output value is within a second range, the function may be executed even when the true value of the power supply is outside the second range. Note that a similar problem may occur even if the temperature sensor does not directly output the power supply temperature.

[0041] In this configuration, the control unit executes a function to operate the power supply when the output value of the temperature sensor falls within a first range that is outside a second range, based on the difference between the output value of the temperature sensor and the true temperature of the power supply. This allows the control unit to execute the power supply operation function only when the temperature of the power supply is within a more suitable range.

[0042] [First Embodiment] The following describes an aerosol generating apparatus according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 is an exploded view showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the atomization unit according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of the power supply unit. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the power supply unit disassembled. Figure 5 is a block diagram of the aerosol generating apparatus. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the electrical circuit of the power supply unit. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the electrical circuit of the atomization unit and power supply unit including the load.

[0043] The aerosol generator 100 may be a non-combustion type suction device for aspirating aerosols without combustion. More preferably, the aerosol generator 100 may be a portable suction device.

[0044] The aerosol generator 100 may have a shape that extends along a predetermined direction A, which is the direction from the non-mouthpiece end E2 toward the mouthpiece end E1. In this case, the aerosol generator 100 may include one end E1 having a mouthpiece 141 for drawing in flavor, and the other end E2 opposite to the mouthpiece 141.

[0045] The aerosol generator 100 may have a power supply unit 110 and an atomizing unit 120. The atomizing unit 120 may have a case 123 and a load 121R located inside the case 123. The case 123 may constitute part of the outermost outer surface of the aerosol generator.

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

[0047] The atomizing unit 120 includes an aerosol source that is drawn in by the user, and an electrical load 121R that atomizes the aerosol source using power from the power supply 10.

[0048] Load 121R can be any element capable of generating aerosols from an aerosol source using power from a power supply. For example, load 121R may be a heating element such as a heater, or an element such as an ultrasonic generator. Examples of heating elements include heat-generating resistors, ceramic heaters, and induction heating heaters.

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

[0050] Load 121R heats the aerosol source held in wick 121Q. Load 121R is composed of, for example, a resistance heating element (e.g., a heating wire) wound around wick 121Q.

[0051] Air flowing in from the inlet 125, which takes in outside air, passes through the vicinity of the load 121R inside the atomizing unit 120 in the flow path 122A. The aerosol generated by the load 121R flows together with the air towards the suction port 141. Hereinafter, flow path 122A refers to the passage between the inlet 125 and the suction port 141 among the passages through which fluid can flow. In other words, this flow path 122A carries the airflow generated by the user's suction. In this embodiment, flow path 122A extends from the connection between the atomizing unit 120 and the power supply unit 110, through the atomizing unit 120, to the suction port 141.

[0052] In this embodiment, a configuration in which the inlet 125 is provided at the connection portion 121 of the atomizing unit 120 has been described. Alternatively, the inlet 125 may be provided at the connection portion 111 of the power supply unit 110. Alternatively, the inlet 125 may be provided at both the connection portion 121 of the atomizing unit 120 and the connection portion 111 of the power supply unit 110. In either configuration, the inlet 125 is provided at the connection portion between the atomizing unit 120 and the power supply unit 110.

[0053] The aerosol source may be a liquid at room temperature. For example, polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin or propylene glycol can be used as the aerosol source. The aerosol source may also contain tobacco raw materials or extracts derived from tobacco raw materials that release flavor components when heated.

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

[0055] The atomizing unit 120 may include a replaceable flavoring unit (cartridge) 130. The flavoring unit 130 may have a cylindrical body 131 that houses a flavoring source. The cylindrical body 131 may include a membrane member 133 and a filter 132 through which air or aerosols can pass. The flavoring source may be provided in the space formed by the membrane member 133 and the filter 132.

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

[0057] The flavor source within the flavor unit 130 may be solid at room temperature. For example, the flavor source is composed of raw material pieces of plant material that impart flavor components to the aerosol. As the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source, molded bodies made by shaping tobacco materials such as shredded tobacco or tobacco raw materials into granules can be used. Alternatively, the flavor source may be molded bodies made by shaping tobacco materials into a sheet. Furthermore, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source may be composed of plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint, herbs, etc.). The flavor source may be imparted with flavorings such as menthol.

[0058] The aerosol generator 100 may include a mouthpiece having an inhalation port for the user to inhale the inhaled components. The mouthpiece may be detachably attached to the atomizing unit 120 or the flavoring unit 130, or it may be an integral and inseparable part. In addition, the flavoring unit 130 may function as a mouthpiece if a part of it, including the filter 132, is exposed from the case 123.

[0059] Below, a more detailed example of the power supply unit 110 will be described with reference to Figures 1, 3, and 4. The power supply unit 110 may include a case 113, a power supply 10, a pressure sensor 20, a control unit, and a temperature sensor 160. The power supply 10, pressure sensor 20, control unit, and temperature sensor 160 may be housed inside the case 113. The case 113 may constitute a part of the outermost surface of the aerosol generator.

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

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

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

[0063] The control unit may include a control board, a CPU, and memory. The CPU and memory constitute a first control unit 50 that performs various controls on the aerosol generator 100. For example, the first control unit 50 may control the power supplied to the load 121R. The aerosol generator 100 may include a first switch 172 that can electrically connect and disconnect the load 121R and the power supply 10 (see Figure 6). The first switch 172 is switched on and off by the first control unit 50. The first switch 172 may be configured as, for example, a MOSFET.

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

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

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

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

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

[0069] The notification unit 40 issues notifications to inform the user of various types of information. The notification unit 40 may be a light-emitting element such as an LED. Alternatively, the notification unit 40 may be an acoustic element that generates sound, or a vibrator that emits vibrations. Furthermore, the notification unit 40 may be composed of any combination of a light-emitting element, an acoustic element, and a vibrator. The notification unit 40 may be provided at any location on the aerosol generator 100. In this embodiment, the notification unit 40 may be built into the first control unit 50, or it may be located in a different location from the first control unit 50. The notification unit 40 may be provided anywhere as long as it can allow the user to recognize the notification.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0077] The first control unit 50 may be configured to determine whether or not a charging unit is connected. For example, the first control unit 50 can determine whether or not a charging unit is connected by the change in the voltage drop across the second resistor 153 described above.

[0078] The voltage drop across the second resistor 153 differs depending on whether nothing is connected to the pair of electrical terminals 111t or whether an external unit such as a charging unit or atomizing unit 120 is connected to the pair of electrical terminals 111t. Therefore, the first control unit 50 can detect the connection of an external unit such as a charging unit or atomizing unit 120 by obtaining the voltage drop across the second resistor 153.

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

[0080] More specifically, when the charging unit is not connected to the connection terminal 111t, current flows from the power supply 10 to the first control unit 50 via the first resistor 152 and the second resistor 153. Therefore, a voltage drop occurs at the second resistor 153 due to the current flowing through it, causing the first control unit 50 to detect a high voltage value at the second resistor 153. On the other hand, if the main and negative buses of the charging unit connected between the first resistor 152 and the second resistor 153 of the pair of electrical terminals 111t are grounded, then connecting the charging unit to the connection terminal 111t causes the portion between the first resistor 152 and the second resistor 153 to fall to ground potential. Therefore, when the charging unit is connected to the connection terminal 111t, current no longer flows through the second resistor 153, causing the first control unit 50 to detect a low voltage value at the second resistor 153.

[0081] Alternatively, the first control unit 50 may detect the connection of the charging unit by, for example, a change in the potential difference between a pair of connection terminals 111t.

[0082] (Power supply discharge control) Figure 8 shows the control flow during the discharge of power supply 10. Specifically, Figure 8 shows the control flow related to the supply of power from power supply 10 to load 121R. This control flow is performed with the atomizing unit 120 connected to the power supply unit 110.

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

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

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

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

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

[0088] If the load 121R is a heater, temperature control of the load 121R can be achieved by known feedback control. Specifically, it is preferable that the first control unit 50 supplies power from the power supply 10 to the load 121R in the form of pulses obtained by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In feedback control, the first control unit 50 measures or estimates the temperature of the load 121R and controls the power supplied to the load 121R, such as the duty cycle mentioned above, based on the difference between the measured or estimated temperature of the load 121R and the target temperature. The feedback control may be, for example, PID control.

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

[0090] The first control unit 50 determines that there is a temperature abnormality in the power supply 10 if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 does not fall within the above range (step S130). When a temperature abnormality in the power supply 10 is detected in this way, the first control unit 50 prohibits the discharge of the power supply 10 (step S132). Disabling the discharge of the power supply 10 can be achieved, for example, by opening the first switch 172.

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

[0092] Next, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (step S110). This range preferably includes room temperature. In the example shown in Figure 8, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within the range of 15°C to 54°C. The output value of the temperature sensor 160 used in step S110 may be the one obtained in step S102. Doing so allows the processing in step S108 to be omitted.

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

[0094] Next, the first control unit 50 determines whether the acquired or estimated SOH is above a predetermined threshold (step S122). If the acquired or estimated SOH is below the predetermined threshold, the first control unit 50 determines that the power supply 10 has deteriorated (step S124). In this case, the first control unit 50 stops the discharge of the power supply 10 and stores information in memory that the power supply 10 has deteriorated (steps S126, 128). Stopping the discharge of the power supply 10 can be achieved, for example, by opening the first switch 172. The first control unit 50 may also notify the user that an abnormality has occurred in the power supply 10 via the notification unit 40. In addition to the first switch 172, the second switch 174 may also be opened to prohibit charging.

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

[0096] The timing of the termination of power supply to load 121R may be defined, for example, by the timing of the detection of the end of the user's suction operation, the timing of the detection of the user releasing the push button, or the timing of a predetermined period elapsed since the start of power supply to load 121R.

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

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

[0099] (Power supply charging control) Figure 9 shows the control flow during charging of power supply 10. Specifically, Figure 9 shows that this control flow is performed when an external charging unit is connected to power supply unit 110.

[0100] The first control unit 50 determines whether the charging unit has been connected to the power supply unit 110 (step S300). The first control unit 50 waits until the charging unit 200 is connected to the power supply unit 110.

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

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

[0103] The first control unit 50 starts rapid charging if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 is within the above range (step S306). Here, the charging speed can be expressed using the C rate. Generally, the charging speed that charges the power supply 10 from a discharged state to a fully charged state in one hour is expressed as 1.0C as a reference. In rapid charging, charging may be performed at a charging rate of, for example, 2.0C. However, it should be noted that the C rate in rapid charging is not limited to this value.

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

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

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

[0107] The first control unit 50 determines that there is a temperature abnormality in the power supply 10 if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 does not fall within the range specified in step S504 (step S330). When a temperature abnormality in the power supply 10 is detected in this way, the first control unit 50 prohibits charging of the power supply 10 (step S332). Prohibiting charging of the power supply 10 can be achieved, for example, by opening the second switch 174. Alternatively, discharge may be prohibited by opening the first switch 172 in addition to the second switch 174.

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

[0109] Next, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within a range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit (step S310). This range preferably includes room temperature. In the example shown in Figure 9, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within the range of 15°C to 54°C. The output value of the temperature sensor 160 used in step S310 may be the one obtained in step S302. Doing so allows the processing in step S308 to be omitted.

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

[0111] The first control unit 50 determines whether the acquired or estimated SOH is above a predetermined threshold (step S322). If the acquired or estimated SOH is below the predetermined threshold, the first control unit 50 determines that the power supply 10 has deteriorated (step S324). In this case, the first control unit 50 stops charging the power supply 10 and stores information in memory that the power supply 10 has deteriorated (steps S326, 328). Stopping the charging of the power supply 10 can be achieved, for example, by opening the second switch 174. The first control unit 50 may also notify the user via the notification unit 40 that an abnormality has occurred in the power supply 10.

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

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

[0114] (Range of temperature values ​​for each function) Next, based on Figure 10, the relationship between each function of the power supply 10 and temperature will be explained.

[0115] As described above, the first control unit 50 includes the step of performing a function to operate the power supply 10 when the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within a first range having at least one of an upper limit and a lower limit. Here, the function to operate the power supply 10 includes at least one of discharging, charging, and degradation diagnosis of the power supply 10.

[0116] For example, in steps S104 and S106 of Figure 8, the first control unit 50 supplies power from the power supply 10 to the load 121R (discharges) when the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within a first range. Since the remaining capacity of the power supply 10 decreases due to the discharge, the discharge is a function that operates the power supply 10.

[0117] Furthermore, in steps S304 and S306 of Figure 9, the first control unit 50 performs rapid charging of the power supply 10 if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within a different first range. Also, in steps S504 and S506 of Figure 9, the first control unit 50 performs normal charging of the power supply 10 if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within a different first range. Rapid charging or normal charging increases the remaining capacity of the power supply 10, and therefore rapid charging or normal charging is a function that operates the power supply 10.

[0118] Furthermore, in steps S110 and S120 in Figure 8, and steps S310 and S320 in Figure 9, the first control unit 50 performs a degradation diagnosis of the power supply 10 if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within yet another first range. Since the control of the power supply 10 differs depending on the result of the degradation diagnosis, the degradation diagnosis is a function that operates the power supply 10.

[0119] Here, the power supply 10 typically has a defined operating temperature. This operating range may be the operating temperature (e.g., guaranteed operating range) predetermined by the power supply manufacturer for the power supply (product).

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

[0121] Furthermore, each of the aforementioned functions that operate the power supply 10 may have a temperature range in which it can be performed.

[0122] From the above perspective, the temperature ranges specified in steps S104, S110, S304, S310, and S504 are usually determined based on a range of values ​​relating to a temperature that suppresses power supply degradation, a range of values ​​relating to a temperature at which the power supply 10 degrades due to the same factors as ambient temperature (a temperature at which no specific degradation occurs), or a range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power supply (second range). Ideally, such a second range can be determined based on the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10 once the type of power supply 10 and the type of function to be performed are determined.

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

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

[0125] Furthermore, if the temperature sensor 160 is located far from the power supply 10, the output value of the temperature sensor 160 may deviate from the true temperature of the power supply 10 due to heat loss from the power supply 10 to the temperature sensor 160. In addition, if there is a heat source other than the power supply 10 near the temperature sensor 160, the output value of the temperature sensor 160 may deviate from the true temperature of the power supply 10 due to the influence of heat from the heat source.

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

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

[0128] It is preferable that the first upper limit of the first range defined in steps S104, S110, S304, S310, and S504 is smaller than the second upper limit of the second range. This allows the first control unit 50 to perform the above function only if the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10 is within the second range, even if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 deviates from the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10 by either positive or negative. As a result, the deterioration of the power supply 10 is suppressed even when the above function is performed, resulting in an energy-saving effect where the power supply 10 can be used for a long period of time without having to replace it with a new one.

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

[0130] Note that the first upper limit of the first range may differ for each function. Since the degree of power supply degradation is higher during charging than during discharging, the first upper limit of the first range in which normal charging or rapid charging is permitted may be lower than 54°C. Preferably, by setting the second upper limit of the second range to 45°C, the first upper limit of the first range in which normal charging or rapid charging is permitted may be 39°C.

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

[0132] Furthermore, it is preferable that the first lower limit of the first range defined in steps S104, S110, S304, S310, and S504 is greater than the second lower limit. This allows the first control unit 50 to perform the above function only if the true temperature of the power supply 10 is within the second range, even if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 deviates from the true temperature of the power supply 10. As a result, the deterioration of the power supply 10 is suppressed even when the above function is performed, resulting in an energy-saving effect where the power supply 10 can be used for a long period of time without having to replace it with a new one.

[0133] In the example shown in Figure 10, the first lower limit of the first range differs for each function: discharge, charge, and power supply degradation diagnosis. As a result, the first range used to determine whether to perform each function differs for each function. This allows the first control unit 50 to determine whether or not to perform each function under the optimal conditions for each function.

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

[0135] Alternatively, in the power supply's discharge function, the second lower limit of the second range may be defined by the temperature at which the internal resistance becomes excessive due to electrolyte solidification. In this case, for example, the second lower limit of the second range may be -10°C.

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

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

[0138] Furthermore, in the power supply degradation diagnosis function, the second lower limit of the second range is defined by the temperature range in which the power supply degradation diagnosis function can be performed. Specifically, power supply degradation is diagnosed using quantities such as SOH, as mentioned above. Here, the internal impedance of the power supply can affect the estimation of quantities such as SOH. When the power supply 10 is cold, the internal impedance increases, so it may not be possible to accurately estimate quantities such as SOH at low temperatures. From this perspective, in the power supply degradation diagnosis function, the second lower limit of the second range may be set to, for example, 15°C. Also, in the power supply degradation diagnosis function, the first lower limit of the first range may be set to the same 15°C.

[0139] In the charging of the power supply 10, particularly in the normal charging function, it is preferable that the sign of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit is different from the sign of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit. That is, if the second upper limit is greater than the first upper limit, then the second lower limit is less than the first lower limit. Conversely, if the second upper limit is less than the first upper limit, then the second lower limit is greater than the first lower limit. Most preferably, the second upper limit is greater than the first upper limit, and the second lower limit is less than the first lower limit. As a result, even if the output value of the temperature sensor 160 deviates from the true temperature of the power supply 10 by both positive and negative values, the first control unit 50 can perform charging of the power supply 10 only if the true temperature of the power supply 10 is within the second range. This suppresses the deterioration of the power supply 10 even when the above function is performed, resulting in an energy-saving effect where the power supply 10 can be used for a long period of time without having to replace it with a new one.

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

[0141] More preferably, at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, is greater than or equal to the absolute value of the difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10 when there is no error.

[0142] Furthermore, when the power supply 10 and the temperature sensor 160 are far apart, it is preferable that at least one of the absolute values ​​of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the absolute values ​​of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, is greater than or equal to the change in temperature (heat loss) that occurs when the temperature of the power supply 10 reaches the temperature sensor 160 or the electronic component containing the temperature sensor 160. This allows the first control unit 50 to appropriately consider the difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 due to heat loss and the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10.

[0143] More preferably, at least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, is greater than or equal to the amount of change corresponding to the temperature change (heat loss) until the temperature of the power supply 10 is transmitted to the temperature sensor 160 or electronic component, or the absolute value of the difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 in the case of no error and the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10, plus the maximum value of the error in the output value relative to the input value of the temperature sensor 160. This allows the first control unit 50 to consider both the difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true value of the temperature of the power supply 10 due to the aforementioned heat loss, and the difference from the true value due to the error in the temperature sensor 160.

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

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

[0146] [Second Embodiment] (Power supply discharge control) Next, the control flow in the power supply discharge in the second embodiment will be described. In the following, explanations of configurations similar to those in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0147] Figure 11 shows the control flow during power supply discharge in the second embodiment. The control flow during power supply discharge in the second embodiment is generally the same as the control flow in the first embodiment (Figure 8). However, in the second embodiment, the upper limit of the first range (first upper limit) defined in steps S104 and S110 is configured to be variable.

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

[0149] Next, the first control unit 50 adjusts the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit based on the calculated difference ε. Specifically, the first control unit 50 reduces the first upper limit used in the first embodiment by the calculated difference ε. Then, in step S104, the first control unit 50 determines whether the output value of the temperature sensor 160 falls within the new first range considering the difference ε (step S104). In this way, the first control unit 50 makes the first range for determining whether to discharge the power supply 10 variable depending on the situation.

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

[0151] Here, the difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true temperature of the power supply 10 may be due, for example, to the amount of heat lost while heat is transferred from the power supply 10 to the temperature sensor 160. Also, if another heat source is present near the temperature sensor 160, the difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true temperature of the power supply 10 may be due to the effect of the heat that the other heat source imparts to the temperature sensor 160.

[0152] For example, the parameter that causes a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true temperature of the power supply 10 may be the temperature itself obtained by the temperature sensor 160. It is thought that the higher the temperature of the power supply 10, the greater the amount of heat lost as it travels from the power supply 10 to the temperature sensor 160. Thus, the difference ε that may occur between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true temperature of the power supply 10 can vary depending on the temperature of the temperature sensor 160. Therefore, in this case, the first control unit 50 should adjust the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit based on the output value of the temperature sensor 160.

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

[0154] The computational load of the control unit 50 per predetermined time can be determined, for example, from the amount or rate of computing resources used by the control unit 50. Alternatively, the computational load of the control unit 50 per predetermined time can be determined from the content and number of functions controlled by the control unit 50.

[0155] In the example shown in Figure 11, the control unit 50 is configured to vary only the upper limit of the first range and adjust the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit. Alternatively, the control unit 50 may be configured to vary at least one of the upper and lower limits of the first range and adjust at least one of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit. The choice of which of the upper or lower limits of the first range to adjust, and the amount of adjustment, can be determined by pre-setting, through experimentation, the parameters that create a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true temperature of the power supply 10, and the relationship between the output value and the true value.

[0156] As described above, the first control unit 50 can perform the function of operating the power supply 10 under more appropriate conditions by varying the first range according to the operating environment and usage conditions.

[0157] (Power supply charging control) Next, the control flow for charging the power supply in the second embodiment will be described. In the following, explanations of configurations similar to those in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0158] Figure 12 shows the control flow for charging the power supply in the second embodiment. The control flow for charging the power supply in the second embodiment is generally the same as the control flow in the first embodiment (Figure 9). However, in the second embodiment, the first upper limit of the first range defined in steps S304 and S310, and the first lower limit of the first range defined in step S504 are configured to be variable.

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

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

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

[0162] In this way, the first control unit 50 varies the first range for determining whether to charge the power supply 10 or perform a power supply degradation diagnosis, depending on the situation. By varying the first range according to the operating environment and usage conditions, the first control unit 50 can perform a function to operate the power supply 10 under more appropriate conditions.

[0163] The parameters that create a difference between the output value of the temperature sensor 160 and the true temperature of the power supply 10, as well as the difference ε, are as explained in the section on power supply discharge control.

[0164] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, components similar to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted.

[0165] Figure 13 shows the electrical circuits of the power supply unit and charging unit in the third embodiment. Figure 14 is a block diagram of the charging unit. The power supply unit 110 may have the same configuration as in the first embodiment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0172] (Power supply charging control) Figure 15 shows the control flow on the charging unit side during power supply charging in the third embodiment.

[0173] The second control unit 250 of the charging unit determines whether it is connected to the power supply unit 110 (step S600). The second control unit 250 waits until it is connected to the power supply unit 110.

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

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

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

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

[0178] The second control unit 250 stops supplying current when it determines that charging is complete (step S614). For example, the second control unit 250 may determine that charging is complete when the charging current falls below the charging completion current during constant voltage charging.

[0179] Figure 16 shows the control flow on the power supply unit side during power supply charging in the third embodiment. The first control unit 50 of the power supply unit 110 determines whether the charging unit has been connected to the power supply unit 110, similar to the first embodiment (step S300). The first control unit 50 waits until the charging unit 200 is connected to the power supply unit 110.

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

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

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

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

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

[0185] As described above, in this embodiment, the first control unit 50 of the power supply unit 110 and the second control unit 250 of the charging unit 200 jointly perform the charging function. Even in this case, the first control unit 50 and / or the second control unit 250 may be configured to perform a function to operate the power supply when the output values ​​of the temperature sensors 160 and 260 fall within a first range having at least one of a first upper limit and a first lower limit. In this case, the first upper limit or first lower limit of the first range may be smaller or larger than the second upper limit or second lower limit of the second range, which is the range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which the function can be performed, the range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which power supply degradation is suppressed, the range of values ​​relating to the temperature at which the power supply degrades only due to the same factors as room temperature, or the range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power supply. That is, the upper and / or lower limits of the temperature range in step S604 in Figure 15 and steps S304 and S310 in Figure 16 may be set as described in the "Range of Temperature Values ​​in Each Function" section described above.

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

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

[0188] [Other embodiments] Although the present invention has been described by the embodiments described above, the descriptions and drawings that constitute part of this disclosure should not be understood as limiting the invention. Various alternative embodiments, examples, and operational techniques will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0189] For example, in the embodiment described above, the aerosol generator 100 includes both an aerosol source that generates aerosols and a flavor source containing tobacco raw materials or extracts derived from tobacco raw materials that generate flavor components. Alternatively, the aerosol generator 100 may include only one of the aerosol source or the flavor source.

[0190] Furthermore, in the aerosol generating apparatus described above, the power supply unit 110 and the atomizing unit 120 are configured to be separable from each other. Alternatively, the power supply unit 110 and the atomizing unit 120 may be configured to be an integral and inseparable unit.

[0191] In the embodiment described above, the temperature of the power supply 10 itself was used as the value related to the temperature of the power supply 10. Therefore, the sensors that output the temperature value were temperature sensors 160 and 260. Alternatively, the value related to temperature may be a physical quantity other than temperature, for example, a physical quantity that can be converted to temperature. A physical quantity that can be converted to temperature may be, for example, the electrical resistance value of a resistor (provided near the power supply) or the voltage drop (potential difference) across the resistor. In this case, the sensor that outputs the temperature value of the power supply may be a sensor that measures the electrical resistance value of an electrical resistor provided near the power supply, or a voltage sensor that measures the voltage drop across the electrical resistor.

Claims

1. A sensor that outputs a temperature value of a lithium-ion secondary battery, which is a power source that is rechargeable and can discharge to a load that atomizes an aerosol source, The system includes a control unit configured to perform one or more functions for operating the power supply when the output value of the sensor falls within a first range having a first upper limit and a first lower limit, The first upper limit is smaller than the second upper limit of a second range having a second upper limit and a second lower limit, which is a range of values ​​relating to the temperature of the power supply that allows one or more functions to be performed, a range of values ​​relating to the temperature of the power supply that suppresses degradation of the power supply, a range of values ​​relating to the temperature of the power supply that degrades only due to the same factors as room temperature, or a range corresponding to the operating temperature of the power supply; and the first lower limit is greater than or equal to the second lower limit. At least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, is greater than or equal to the maximum error in the output value of the sensor with respect to the input value of the sensor. The sensor is located inside or near an electronic component that is separate from the power supply. The distance between the sensor and the electronic component is shorter than the distance between the sensor and the power supply. The aforementioned electronic component is the control unit, The control unit is configured to adjust at least one of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, based on the amount of computation per predetermined time of the control unit, and the amount of computation per predetermined time of the control unit is obtained from the amount or rate of computational resources used by the control unit, or from the content or number of functions controlled by the control unit. A control unit for an aerosol generator.

2. The first range has the first lower limit, The control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first lower limit is greater than the second lower limit.

3. The control unit adjusts at least one of the first upper limit and the first lower limit based on a fluctuating parameter that causes a difference between the output value of the sensor and the true value of the temperature of the power supply, so that the first range does not exceed the second range. A control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. At least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, is greater than or equal to the amount of change corresponding to the temperature change until the temperature of the power supply is transmitted to the sensor or the electronic component. A control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

5. At least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, is greater than or equal to the absolute value of the difference between the output value of the sensor and the value corresponding to the true temperature of the power supply. A control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

6. At least one of the absolute value of the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the absolute value of the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit, is greater than or equal to the value obtained by adding the absolute value of the difference between the temperature change corresponding to the temperature change until the temperature of the power supply is transmitted to the sensor or the electronic component, or the absolute value of the difference between the output value of the sensor and the true value of the temperature of the power supply, to the maximum value of the error in the output value relative to the input value of the sensor. A control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The one or more functions include at least one of the following: discharging the power supply, charging it, and diagnosing its degradation. A control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The second upper limit is the temperature at which a change occurs in the structure or composition of the electrodes or electrolyte in the power supply. A control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The one or more functions mentioned above are charging the power supply, The second lower limit is the temperature at which electrodeposition occurs in the power supply. A control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The control unit is configured to be able to perform a plurality of the above functions, A control unit for an aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one of the first upper limit, the first lower limit, the second upper limit, the second lower limit, the difference between the second upper limit and the first upper limit, and the difference between the second lower limit and the first lower limit is the same in multiple of the functions.

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