Aerosol generation system including electrolytic capacitor and visual indicator

Abstract

An aerosol generation system is described. The system includes an aerosol generation article (1) and an aerosol generation device (34) adapted to receive the article (1) in use. The article (1) includes a capacitor (6) containing an electrolytic solution that generates an aerosol for inhalation by a user when heated. The device (34) also includes a visual indicator (52) and a controller (48) adapted to estimate or determine the amount of electrolytic solution in the capacitor (6) and then control the visual indicator (52) based on the amount of electrolytic solution.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an aerosol generation system including an aerosol generation article and, in particular, an aerosol generation article adapted to be received in an aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol for inhalation by a user.

[0002] The present disclosure is particularly applicable to portable aerosol generation devices.

Background Art

[0003] Devices that heat an aerosol generation material without combustion to generate an aerosol for inhalation have gained popularity among consumers in recent years. A commonly available risk reduction or risk modification device is a heated material aerosol generation device or a so-called non-combustion heating device. This type of device generates an aerosol or vapor by heating an aerosol generation material typically to a temperature in the range of 150°C to 300°C. This temperature range is considerably lower compared to normal tobacco. By heating the aerosol generation material to a temperature within this range without combustion, vapor is generated, and the vapor typically cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user of the device.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Such devices can supply heat to aerosol-generating materials using one of many different methods. All methods of heating aerosol-generating materials require some kind of power source, such as a battery, which increases the size and weight of the device. Embodiments of this disclosure aim to provide a power source within the aerosol product that can be used to complement or partially replace the power source within the device. As a result, it is possible to miniaturize and lighten the device while maintaining precise control over the heating of the aerosol-generating material and optimizing the properties of the generated aerosol, which is beneficial to the user. The power source is a capacitor containing an electrolyte that generates an aerosol for inhalation by the user when heated. Embodiments of this disclosure visually display the amount of electrolyte in the capacitor to the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol generation system, A condenser containing an electrolyte that generates an aerosol for inhalation by the user when heated, and an aerosol product (or consumable item) including the condenser, Aerosol generator adapted to accept aerosol products during use, and The aerosol generating device includes, Visual indicators and It is a controller, To estimate or determine the amount of electrolyte inside the capacitor, In other words, in order to visually show the user the amount of electrolyte remaining in the capacitor, a visual indicator is controlled based on the amount of electrolyte. A controller adapted to perform the following: An aerosol generation system is provided that includes [the specified component].

[0006] The electrolyte is aerosolizable, meaning it can be converted into an aerosol by heating, which is then inhaled by the user. Subsequently, heating the capacitor converts the electrolyte contained within it into an aerosol, and the aerosolized electrolyte is inhaled by the user. As the aerosolized electrolyte is inhaled by the user, the amount of electrolyte in the capacitor decreases during the vaping session.

[0007] The capacitor may have any suitable structure, but a preferred embodiment is a supercapacitor such as an electric double-layer supercapacitor. The capacitor may further include a pair of electrodes and a porous separator between the electrodes. The first electrode may be the positive electrode and the second electrode may be the negative electrode, or vice versa. The electrodes and separator are immersed in an electrolyte.

[0008] Similar to conventional capacitors, in electric double-layer supercapacitors, charge is stored in the electric field between the electrodes, and the capacitance is a function of the surface area of ​​the electrodes, the distance between the electrodes, and the dielectric constant of the separator material. Capacitors have a higher power density than conventional power sources such as batteries. When a capacitor is charged by an external circuit connected to the pair of electrodes, electrons move from the negative electrode to the positive electrode through the external circuit, while cations in the electrolyte move to the negative electrode and anions move to the positive electrode. Thus, two layers of charge with opposite polarity (electric double layer) are formed at the interface with the electrodes. When charging is complete, to stabilize the electrode double layer, the positive charge of the positive electrode and the anions in the electrolyte attract each other, while the negative charge of the negative electrode and the cations in the electrolyte attract each other. A stable voltage is generated. When a capacitor discharges, the reverse process occurs.

[0009] Each electrode may include at least one carbon-based electrode layer, such as a porous carbon material or activated carbon layer that has a high specific surface area per unit volume and high compatibility with the proposed electrolyte.

[0010] Each electrode may further include a current collector comprising a metal foil layer, such as an aluminum foil layer. A carbon-based electrode layer may be positioned adjacent to one or both sides of the current collector. Each carbon-based electrode layer may be formed as a coating. Such electrodes can be manufactured relatively easily and inexpensively using materials already known to be used in aerosol products.

[0011] As those skilled in the art will understand, the electrolyte serves two functions. First, it allows the movement of cations and anions generated when the capacitor is charged or discharged, and second, when heated, it forms an aerosol that is safe for the user to inhale and has good properties. The electrolyte should therefore be appropriately selected. Preferably, the electrolyte is a food-grade electrolyte and may contain, for example, sodium chloride, sodium citrate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium chloride, calcium lactate, calcium carbonate, tricalcium phosphate, magnesium citrate, magnesium carbonate, citric acid, tartaric acid, benzoic acid, glycerol, and one or more of any suitable equivalents. The electrolyte may optionally contain a gelling agent such as polyvinyl alcohol, gellan gum, or xanthan gum. In one example, the electrolyte may contain sodium chloride and glycerol, and optionally polyvinyl alcohol as a gelling agent. Such electrolytes are known to allow the movement of cations and anions and are safe for the user to inhale.

[0012] If the entire electrolyte evaporates, the capacitor will not discharge or charge further, and it may be necessary to dispose of the aerosol products appropriately or refill it with electrolyte.

[0013] A separator must dielectrically separate pairs of oppositely charged electrodes. The separator also stores an electrolyte within its pores, allowing the passage of cations and anions during the charge-discharge process. The separator may contain any suitable material. It may contain plant-derived materials, particularly tobacco materials, such as porous tobacco sheets, or it may contain any suitable cellulose-based or polypropylene-based material. The separator material may release one or more volatile compounds when heated. These volatile compounds may include nicotine or tobacco, or other flavoring compounds.

[0014] The aerosol product may further include any type of solid or semi-solid material downstream of the condenser in the aerosol flow path. Examples of types of solid or semi-solid materials include crumb, powder, granules, pellets, flakes, strands, particles, gels, strips, loose leaves, cut fillers, porous materials, foamed materials, or sheets. The material may include plant-derived materials, and in particular tobacco materials. The aerosol produced by heating the electrolyte of the condenser flows through a solid or semi-solid material that may be placed, for example, between the condenser and the filter compartment, i.e., the mouthpiece, from which the user inhales the aerosol. The solid or semi-solid material may release one or more volatile compounds that add, for example, flavor and nicotine to the aerosol. Heating by the condenser also heats or warms the solid or semi-solid material, which may facilitate the release of volatile compounds.

[0015] The aerosol inhaled by the user essentially vaporizes, i.e., comprises an aerosolized electrolyte and one or more volatile compounds that may optionally be released by the separator material and / or downstream solid or semi-solid material.

[0016] The capacitor may have any suitable structure, such as a flat spiral (i.e., "jelly roll") structure that is substantially cylindrical or flat and more cubic in shape, a prismatic structure, a folded or curved structure, or a laminated structure.

[0017] In one embodiment, a layered capacitor substrate may include a first electrode, a separator adjacent to the first electrode, and a second electrode adjacent to the separator, such that the separator is sandwiched between the first and second electrodes, more specifically between pairs of carbon-based electrode layers. The first electrode may be a positive electrode and the second electrode a negative electrode, or vice versa. Such a substrate may be rolled or folded into a suitable shape while maintaining gaps or other dielectric isolation between opposing electrodes or between different parts of the same electrode. Dielectric isolation may be achieved by one or more layers of dielectric material, in addition to that achieved by the separator. The dielectric material may include any suitable material. The dielectric material may include plant-derived materials, in particular tobacco materials, such as porous tobacco sheets, or it may include any suitable cellulose-based or polypropylene-based material. The dielectric material releases one or more volatile compounds when heated. The volatile compounds may include nicotine or tobacco or flavor compounds such as other flavorings. The dielectric material and the separator material may be the same or different.

[0018] In another embodiment, the layered capacitor substrate may include a first electrode, a first separator adjacent to the first electrode, and a second electrode adjacent to the first separator, such that the first separator is sandwiched between the first and second electrodes, more specifically between pairs of carbon-based electrode layers, and may also include a second separator adjacent to the second electrode. The second electrode is sandwiched between the first and second separators. The first electrode may be the positive electrode and the second electrode the negative electrode, or vice versa. Such a substrate is particularly suitable for a structure that is wound in a flat helical shape (i.e., a "jelly roll") to be substantially cylindrical or closer to a cubic shape. Dielectric isolation between windings of the helical capacitor is achieved by the second separator, and the wound substrate may be sandwiched between the first and second electrodes, more specifically between pairs of carbon-based electrode layers.

[0019] In yet another configuration, the layered capacitor substrate may include a plurality of first electrodes, a plurality of second electrodes, and a plurality of separators. The first electrodes may be positive electrodes and the second electrodes may be negative electrodes, or vice versa. The first and second electrodes are alternately stacked such that the substrate contains the first electrodes, second electrodes, first electrodes, second electrodes, etc., in the stacking direction. Separators are sandwiched between each pair of electrodes, more specifically between pairs of carbon-based electrode layers, to achieve dielectric isolation. Such substrates are useful for flat articles. The first electrodes may be electrically connected to each other, and the second electrodes may be electrically connected to each other. The first electrodes may be electrically connected to the first capacitor terminals, and the second electrodes may be electrically connected to the second capacitor terminals.

[0020] A capacitor may be housed in a casing. More specifically, the casing may include a capacitor substrate containing electrodes, separators, etc., and an electrolyte. The electrolyte may be injected into the casing during manufacturing or when it is necessary to replenish the capacitor. The casing may electrically insulate the capacitor and may be formed from any suitable material.

[0021] The casing may comprise, for example, wrapping paper with a metal or polymer coating. The casing may include a pair of end caps made of any suitable material. The casing may include a suitable puncture or aperture or incorporate a suitable aerosol permeable membrane material to allow the user to freely inhale the aerosol generated when the electrolyte is heated while preventing leakage when the electrolyte is in a liquid or gel state. The aerosol generating article may include, for example, a filter section containing cellulose acetate fibers at the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. The filter section may include a mouthpiece filter. One or more vapor collection regions, cooling regions and other structures may also be included in some designs. The vapor cooling region is advantageously such that the vapor can be cooled and condensed to form an aerosol having properties suitable for the user to inhale, for example through the filter section. Generally, a vapor is a substance that is in the gas phase at a temperature below its critical temperature and which can be condensed to a liquid by increasing the pressure without lowering the temperature, whereas an aerosol is a suspension of fine solid particles or droplets in air or other gas. However, it should be noted that in this specification the terms "aerosol" and "vapor" may be used interchangeably.

[0022] The capacitor is preferably pre-charged within the packaged article, i.e., already charged at the time the user purchases it and before it is removably inserted into the aerosol generating device. Pre-charging the capacitor reduces the amount of energy that needs to be supplied from the device's power source for heating. This can lead to a reduction in the size and weight of the device.

[0023] As described above, the aerosol generating device may be adapted to receive an aerosol generating article during use. The aerosol generating device may include an external circuit (e.g., a switching circuit) that is electrically connected between a pair of electrodes or capacitor terminals when the aerosol generating article is received within the device. The switching circuit may be configured to control the discharge of the capacitor. The switching circuit may optionally also be configured to control the charging of the capacitor from a power source of the aerosol generating device, such as a battery. The switching circuit may include a switching device that is controlled by a controller to selectively provide a continuous or switched (i.e., discontinuous or intermittent) short - circuit path between a pair of electrodes or capacitor terminals that allows the charge stored in the capacitor to be discharged through the switching circuit. The switching device may include one or more switches. The one or more switches may be, for example, semiconductor switching devices that may be connected as a bridge circuit or a converter circuit. The one or more switches can be opened and closed or switched on / off by the controller to provide a short - circuit path.

[0024] The switching circuit may include a first terminal electrically connected to a first electrode or terminal of a capacitor when the aerosol product is received into the aerosol generator, and a second terminal electrically connected to a second electrode or terminal of the capacitor. To prevent unintended or intentional discharge of a pre-charged capacitor before the aerosol product is inserted into the device, it is preferable that at least one of the capacitor's electrodes or terminals is inaccessible to the user. For example, one or both of the capacitor's electrodes or terminals may be concealed within the aerosol product casing and made accessible only for electrical connection to the switching circuit terminals after or during insertion of the aerosol product into the aerosol generator. Making the electrical connection may require rupturing the casing at one or more locations, and the aerosol generator may include appropriate means for rupturing, puncturing, or severing the casing. The first terminal of the switching circuit may be directly electrically connected to the first electrode at one or more locations, or to first capacitor terminals sequentially electrically connected to the first electrode. Similarly, the second terminal of the switching circuit may be electrically connected directly to the second electrode at one or more locations, or to the second capacitor terminal which is sequentially electrically connected to the second electrode. The capacitor terminal may be located at any location on the aerosol product, for example, near the end cap or side of the article. The direction in which the aerosol product is inserted into the aerosol generator may be restricted to ensure that the terminals are properly aligned to ensure a reliable electrical connection between the capacitor and the external switching circuit.

[0025] The terminals of the switching circuit may be formed as bursting devices designed to rupture, puncture, or sever the casing to achieve an electrical connection with the electrodes or terminals of the capacitor. The bursting devices may be fixed to or stationary relative to the aerosol generator and may be designed to rupture, puncture, or sever the casing when the aerosol product is inserted into the device, for example, into the aerosol generation space or heating chamber. The bursting devices may be movable. For example, in one configuration, the bursting device may be mounted on a panel or door of the aerosol generator that is opened or removed to allow insertion of the aerosol product, and the bursting device is designed to rupture, puncture, or sever the casing when the user closes the panel or door. The panel or door may be hinged, for example. In another configuration, the bursting device may be movable by a suitable actuator, such as an electric motor or piston, which can forcibly move the bursting device within the casing to achieve an electrical connection. The bursting device may be movable through an opening or slot in a part of the aerosol generator defining the aerosol generation space or heating chamber. The rupture device may have any suitable shape, for example, a needle or crown shape with one or more pointed ends, a blade shape with a rim, or a punch shape with no pointed ends. The rupture device may be designed to work in cooperation with any of the capacitor structures described above. If either the electrodes or terminals of the capacitor are accessible, only one rupture device may be required.

[0026] By discharging a pre-charged capacitor through an external circuit, such as the switching circuit of the aerosol generator, heat is generated in the electrodes, resulting in the heating of the electrolyte in which the electrodes are immersed. Sufficiently heating the electrolyte generates the aerosol that the user inhales during a vaping session. To improve heating, the internal resistance of the capacitor can be increased by increasing the thickness of the separator between the oppositely charged electrodes. As a result, the number of windings or folds in the capacitor can be reduced while keeping the overall dimensions the same. Charging the capacitor using an external circuit also generates heat in the electrodes, which in turn heats the electrolyte and generates the inhaled aerosol.

[0027] The discharge and optional charging of the capacitor, and thus the heating of the electrolyte, can be controlled using a switching circuit, which may be part of the aerosol generator. The aerosol generator may include an external heater that heats the capacitor to generate an aerosol for inhalation by the user. In other words, the heating of the electrolyte is not limited to the heat generated when the capacitor is discharged or charged, and the capacitor may be heated by an external heater in a manner similar to that of conventional aerosol-generating materials or substrates. Such heating also heats the electrolyte to generate an aerosol for inhalation. Using an external heater allows for more control over heating during specific phases of the vaping session, thereby optimizing the user's experience. Any suitable heater, such as a low-power thin-film heater or a printed heater, can be used. The heat generated by discharging the capacitor can be used in the initial preheating phase, and the external heater may be used, for example, to heat the electrolyte to generate an aerosol in subsequent heating or vaping phases. The power for preheating can therefore be provided, at least partially, by the capacitor rather than by the power supply of the aerosol generator. As a result, the power supply can be miniaturized, and therefore the device can be made smaller and lighter. Alternatively, the electrolyte may be heated in a subsequent heating or vaping phase by periodically charging and discharging the capacitor. In the heating or vaping phase, heating may not be necessary, and therefore the capacitor may not need to be discharged or charged. If heating is necessary, the capacitor may be discharged or charged continuously, or intermittently using, for example, an appropriate duty cycle. In this alternative embodiment, an external heater may be used to heat the electrolyte in the initial preheating phase. The preheating phase may generally be intended to preheat the electrolyte to a target temperature, and the heating or vaping phase may generally be intended to heat the electrolyte over a longer period during which aerosol is generated. If an external heater is not required because heating can be provided entirely by the capacitor, the cost of the aerosol generator may be reduced and the overall design may be simplified.

[0028] If heating can be performed entirely by the capacitor, the aerosol product can be formed as a single-use, i.e., disposable device that does not require insertion into another device. In other words, the aerosol product may include an external circuit to control the capacitor's discharge, such as a switching circuit, and other elements necessary for a properly functioning single-use, i.e., disposable device.

[0029] The amount of electrolyte can be estimated or determined by the controller using any appropriate method, for example, by using one or more electrical parameters of the capacitor.

[0030] One or more electrical parameters of a capacitor are known to change depending on the amount of electrolyte, such as internal resistance and capacitance. These parameters are directly proportional to the surface contact area between the electrolyte and the capacitor electrodes.

[0031] For example, the internal resistance of a capacitor is R DC It can be estimated or determined from this.

number

[0032] The capacitance C of a capacitor can be estimated or determined from the following formula.

number

[0033] In conventional capacitors, the electrolyte is contained within a sealed casing, so the amount of electrolyte remains constant. However, in the aerosol products of this disclosure, the amount of electrolyte gradually decreases as the user inhales the electrolyte as an aerosol during a vaping session. Consequently, one or more electrical parameters also change during the vaping session as the amount of electrolyte decreases. Other factors, such as the capacitor temperature, may also affect how one or more electrical parameters of the capacitor change, and therefore may be considered when one or more electrical parameters are used to estimate or determine the amount of electrolyte. By monitoring the amount of electrolyte and notifying the user, the user can more easily understand how much electrolyte remains in the capacitor during a vaping session, and as a result, estimate how much aerosol a particular aerosol product is likely to continue generating.

[0034] One or more electrical parameters of a capacitor can be estimated or determined using at least one of voltage and current measurements obtained when the capacitor is discharged or charged through an external circuit, as described above. For example, voltage and current measurements can be obtained from voltage and current sensors when the capacitor is being discharged or charged. The voltage and current sensors may be part of a determination circuit in an aerosol generator that provides measurements to a controller. Estimation or determination of one or more electrical parameters of a capacitor can also use the time required to discharge or charge the capacitor while time measurements, such as current and voltage measurements, are being obtained. It is known that the time required to discharge or charge the capacitor between a given upper and lower limit varies depending on the amount of electrolyte, and in particular, the time required to discharge or charge the capacitor typically decreases as the amount of electrolyte decreases during a vaping session.

[0035] The amount of electrolyte can be estimated or determined by performing one or more quantity determination steps. In each determination step, one or more measurements of voltage, current, and time can be obtained while the capacitor is being discharged or charged. More specifically, in an initial determination step, the initial amount of electrolyte in the capacitor is estimated or determined by the controller, for example, at the start of a vaping session. In one or more subsequent steps during the vaping session, the amount of electrolyte remaining in the capacitor is estimated or determined by the controller. The amount of electrolyte remaining in the capacitor is communicated to the user by controlling a visual indicator. Subsequent steps may be performed at regular or irregular intervals or in response to puff detection, i.e., after the user has inhaled the generated aerosol. This makes it easier for the user to understand how much electrolyte remains in the capacitor after a puff has been performed.

[0036] A visual indicator may include one or more light-emitting devices (e.g., light-emitting diodes (LEDs)).

[0037] The controller may be adapted to change one or both of the color (i.e., wavelength) and intensity of the light emitted by each emitter based on the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller. For example, as the amount of electrolyte remaining in the capacitor gradually decreases, the color of the visual indicator may change and / or the intensity of the emitted light may decrease or increase. If the user starts a vaping session when the capacitor is only partially filled, the controller may select an appropriate color and / or intensity. A predetermined color may be used to notify the user that the amount of electrolyte has fallen below a minimum, i.e., that the capacitor is empty or substantially empty. In other words, if the amount of electrolyte falls below a minimum, the controller may be adapted to change the color of the light emitted by each emitter to a predetermined color to notify the user that the capacitor is empty or substantially empty and that replacement or refilling of the aerosol product may be necessary. The controller may also be adapted to change the intensity to a predetermined intensity, e.g., maximum intensity, if the amount of electrolyte falls below a minimum. The designated colors may also be used to inform the user of other operating conditions of the aerosol generation system, such as, for example, that an aerosol product has been incorrectly inserted into the aerosol generator, is damaged, or is not a genuine part, or that the aerosol generator is malfunctioning. The designated colors may be customizable or selectable by the user.

[0038] The controller may be adapted to control each light emitter to flash, i.e., to emit light intermittently. The controller may be adapted to change the flashing frequency of each light emitter based on the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller. For example, each light emitter may be controlled to flash faster or slower as the amount of electrolyte remaining in the capacitor gradually decreases. If the user starts a vaping session when the capacitor is only partially filled, the controller may select an appropriate frequency. Changing the flashing frequency of each light emitter may be combined with changing one or both of the color and intensity of the light emitted by each light emitter.

[0039] The controller may be adapted to control each light emitter to flash when the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller falls below a predetermined threshold, for example, a threshold indicating the maximum amount of electrolyte, thereby notifying the user that the item has already been partially used when flashing occurs. This is useful when the user starts a vaping session with an aerosol product whose electrolyte level is below the maximum due to previous use. The controller may also be adapted to control each light emitter to not flash, i.e., to always emit light, when the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller exceeds a predetermined threshold, thereby notifying the user that the capacitor is full or substantially full. The predetermined threshold may also be a threshold indicating the minimum amount of electrolyte so that the user knows that when flashing occurs, the capacitor is empty or substantially empty, and therefore the aerosol product may need to be replaced or refilled. Flashing may be combined with a predetermined change in the color or intensity of the light emitted by each light emitter, for example, to indicate that the capacitor of the aerosol product is substantially empty.

[0040] A visual indicator may include one or more compartments or panels that can be independently illuminated by one or more light emitters. The light emitters may, for example, be positioned behind one or more compartments or panels, and each compartment or panel may be transparent or translucent, i.e., made of any suitable light-transmitting material. Each compartment or panel may be formed as part of the outer housing or body of the aerosol generator. Each compartment or panel may be defined by a single light emitter or a group of light emitters. If the visual indicator includes multiple compartments or panels, the controller may be adapted to control each light emitter to illuminate a predetermined number of compartments or panels based on the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller. For example, the visual indicator may include multiple compartments or panels arranged in a suitable pattern that all illuminate when the amount of electrolyte exceeds the maximum amount, i.e., when the capacitor is full or substantially full. As the amount of electrolyte decreases, the number of illuminated compartments or panels may decrease. When the amount of electrolyte falls below the minimum amount, i.e., when the capacitor is empty or substantially empty, only one of the compartments or panels may illuminate, or none may illuminate. If a user initiates a vaping session when the capacitor is only partially filled, the controller will illuminate an appropriate number of compartments or panels. For example, if the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller at the start of the vaping session is about half of the maximum amount, the controller may be adapted to control one or more light emitters to illuminate half of the compartments or panels. Illuminating an appropriate number of compartments or panels may be combined with changing, flashing, or using a predetermined color of light emitted by each light emitter, or both of the color and intensity of the light emitted by each light emitter. For example, if only one compartment or panel is illuminated, one or more light emitters used to illuminate that compartment or panel may be controlled to flash and / or emit a predetermined color or intensity of light so that the user knows that the capacitor is empty or substantially empty and that the aerosol product may need to be replaced or refilled.

[0041] The visual indicator can be placed anywhere on the aerosol generator, but it is preferable that it be visible when the device is held in the user's hand. The visual indicator can have any suitable shape or size.

[0042] In one example, the visual indicator may be formed in the shape of a ring, for example, as an annular indicator. The ring may include multiple compartments or panels, as described above. If the aerosol generator includes an opening for receiving the aerosol product, the visual indicator may substantially surround the opening. For example, if the aerosol product is substantially cylindrical and the aerosol generator includes a substantially cylindrical opening for receiving the aerosol product so that the aerosol product can be inserted into the device, for example, the aerosol generation space or heating chamber, the visual indicator may be positioned around the opening. The visual indicator may then be visible to the user when inhaling the aerosol from the proximal end of the aerosol product, for example, through the mouthpiece or filter.

[0043] The visual indicator may be a display screen, such as an LCD or LED display screen. The controller may be configured to control the display screen to display information that directly indicates the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller, such as an absolute value or a percentage indicating that the capacitor is full at 100% and empty at 0%. The controller may also be configured to control the display screen to display the remaining duration of the vaping session (e.g., in minutes or seconds) or the number of remaining puffs, which is estimated or determined from the amount of electrolyte. The remaining time of the vaping session may depend on the user's vaping pattern; i.e., if the user takes strong puffs at short intervals, the electrolyte will be consumed more quickly, and the remaining time of the vaping session can be estimated based on the remaining amount of electrolyte and then presented to the user on the display screen. The display screen may also graphically display the information, such as by displaying one or more colored blocks that indicate the amount of electrolyte by size, shape, or color. Other graphic displays may be used.

[0044] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a method for visually indicating to a user the amount of electrolyte in a capacitor of an aerosol product, which, when heated, generates an aerosol for inhalation by the user. In other words, this could be a method for visually indicating to a user the amount of aerosol-generating electrolyte remaining in the capacitor of an aerosol product. The method includes controlling a visual indicator in an aerosol generator adapted to accept an aerosol product at the time of use, based on the amount of electrolyte.

[0045] The visual indicator may include one or more light emitters as described herein. This method Based on the amount of electrolyte, the color and / or intensity of the light emitted by each light emitter can be changed. The frequency at which each light emitter flashes is changed based on the amount of electrolyte. It may include one or both of the above.

[0046] The visual indicator may include multiple compartments or panels, as described herein. The method may include illuminating a predetermined number of compartments or panels based on the amount of electrolyte. The compartments or panels may be illuminated, for example, by controlling one or more light-emitting devices.

[0047] The visual indicator may be a display screen, such as a liquid crystal or LED display screen, as described herein. The method may include displaying information on the display screen that directly or indirectly indicates the amount of electrolyte. For example, the display screen may be controlled to show the remaining duration of the vaping session (e.g., in minutes or seconds) or the remaining number of puffs, both of which can be estimated or determined from the amount of electrolyte.

[0048] In the above-described aspects of the Disclosure, the aerosol product (or consumable) functions as a capacitor when the electrolyte is aerosolizable or when the aerosol product has an energy storage function. In alternative aspects of the Disclosure, the aerosol product may include an aerosolizable humectant, i.e., a material that can be converted into an aerosol by heating or electrolysis, and the aerosol is then inhaled by the user. Such a humectant does not necessarily function as an electrolyte; in other words, the aerosol product does not need to include a capacitor or function as one. The purpose of the aerosolizable humectant is to provide an inhalable aerosol without necessarily providing an additional energy storage function as an electrolyte. According to a third aspect of the Disclosure, an aerosol generating system, Aerosol product (or consumable) containing an aerosolizable humectant, Aerosol generator adapted to accept aerosol products during use, and The aerosol generating device includes, Visual indicators and It is a controller, To estimate or determine the amount of humectant in aerosol products, Based on the amount of humectant, control the visual indicator to visually show the user the amount of humectant remaining in the aerosol product. A controller adapted to perform the following: An aerosol generation system is provided that includes [the specified component].

[0049] The amount of moisturizer used decreases during the vaping session.

[0050] Visual indicators may generally be as described herein and may include, for example, one or more light emitters or be formed as a display screen. Such light emitters may be controlled, as described herein, to change, for example, the color and / or intensity of the light they emit, the frequency of flashing, etc., in accordance with the amount of humectant. The display screen may be controlled to display information that directly or indirectly indicates the amount of humectant estimated or determined by the controller.

[0051] The aerosol product may include an aerosol-generating material or substrate that generates an aerosol for inhalation by the user of the aerosol generator by heating without combustion and volatilizing at least one component of the aerosol-generating material. The aerosol product may include the body of the aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any type of solid or semi-solid material. Exemplary types of solid or semi-solid materials include crumbs, powders, granules, pellets, flakes, strands, particles, gels, strips, loose leaves, cut fillers, porous materials, foamed materials, or sheets. The aerosol-generating material may include plant-derived materials, particularly tobacco materials.

[0052] Aerosol-forming materials may contain aerosol-forming agents; that is, humectants can be aerosol-forming agents. Examples of aerosol-forming agents include polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin or propylene glycol and mixtures thereof. In other possible examples, aerosol-forming agents may include other alcohols such as ethanol or 1,3-propanediol, or water. Aerosol-forming agents can be selected from polyols such as sorbitol, glycols such as glycerol and propylene glycol or triethylene glycol, non-polyols such as monohydric alcohols, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerin, or vegetable glycerin. Typically, aerosol-forming materials may contain an aerosol-forming agent content of about 5% to about 50% on a dry weight basis of the aerosol-forming material. In some examples, aerosol-forming materials may contain an aerosol-forming agent content of about 10% to about 20%, and possibly about 15%, on a dry weight basis of the aerosol-forming material. The aerosol-generating material may contain an ionic conductivity enhancer such as sodium chloride or an ionic liquid.

[0053] The aerosol-generating substance may also be the aerosol-forming agent itself. In this case, the aerosol-generating substance may be a liquid. In this case, the aerosol product may also include a liquid-holding substance (e.g., a bundle of fibers, a porous material such as ceramic) that holds the liquid to be aerosolized and allows the aerosol to be formed, released from the liquid-holding substance, and moved toward an outlet so that it can be inhaled, for example, by a user.

[0054] Accordingly, it will be understood that the aerosolizable humectant may be the aerosol-forming agent described above, or, in specific cases, may be an electrolyte if the aerosol product includes or functions as a capacitor, such as an electric double-layer supercapacitor. In any case where the term electrolyte is used herein, it may be understood to refer to any suitable aerosol-forming humectant, such as an aerosol-forming agent, as appropriate. If the humectant is an aerosol-forming agent and the aerosol product does not include a capacitor, the amount of humectant may be estimated or determined by the controller using any suitable method, for example, by measuring one or more electrical parameters such as resistance or capacitance, which are known to change depending on the amount of humectant (e.g., by measuring one or more of the resistance, capacitance or electrical load). Such electrical parameters may be measured, for example, using a pair of spaced electrodes. At least a portion of the aerosol-forming material or liquid-holding substance may be received between the electrodes. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0055] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the first example of an aerosol product. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of a first example of a capacitor having a helical winding structure. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 2. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generation device. [Figure 5] This is a schematic representation of a switching circuit. [Figure 6] This represents the temperature profile during the preheating and heating phases. [Figure 7] This represents the discharge and charging of the capacitor in the electrolyte level determination step. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of the first example of a visual indicator as part of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 9A] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the first example of a visual indicator, showing different emission colors. [Figure 9B]Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the first example of a visual indicator, showing different emission colors. [Figure 9C] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the first example of a visual indicator, showing different emission colors. [Figure 9D] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the first example of a visual indicator, showing different emission colors. [Figure 9E] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the first example of a visual indicator, showing different emission colors. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of a second example of a visual indicator as part of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 11A] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a second example of the visual indicator, showing a different number of illuminated sections. [Figure 11B] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a second example of the visual indicator, showing a different number of illuminated sections. [Figure 11C] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a second example of the visual indicator, showing a different number of illuminated sections. [Figure 11D] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a second example of the visual indicator, showing a different number of illuminated sections. [Figure 11E] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a second example of the visual indicator, showing a different number of illuminated sections. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram of a third example of a visual indicator as part of an aerosol generating device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0056] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described primarily by reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] Referring first to Figure 1, an example of aerosol product 1 is schematically shown. Article 1 has a proximal end 2 and a distal end 4.

[0058] Article 1 includes a capacitor 6 containing an electrolyte. The capacitor 6 is wrapped in a wrapping paper 8 that is coated with metal or polymer. End caps 10a and 10b are provided at both ends of the capacitor 6. The wrapping paper 8 and the end caps 10a and 10b define the outer casing of the capacitor 6, which contains the electrolyte and provides electrical insulation.

[0059] Item 1 is roughly cylindrical in shape.

[0060] At the proximal end 2, article 1 includes a mouthpiece 12 having an outlet 14 from which the user can inhale the aerosol generated by heating the electrolyte. Although not shown, the proximal end cap 10a may include a suitable puncture or opening or incorporate a suitable aerosol permeable membrane material so that the generated aerosol can reach the outlet 14 through the end cap.

[0061] Referring to Figure 2, capacitor 6 is an electric double-layer supercapacitor and has a nearly cylindrical helical (i.e., "jelly roll") structure. Capacitor 6 includes a positive electrode 16 and a negative electrode 18. The electrodes 16 and 18 are separated by a pair of porous separators 20a and 20b. As clearly shown in Figure 3, the positive electrode 16 includes a positive electrode current collector 22. Each side of the positive electrode current collector 22 is provided with a porous carbon-based electrode layer 24, such as a layer of porous carbon material or activated carbon. The negative electrode 18 includes a negative electrode current collector 26. Each side of the negative electrode current collector 24 is provided with a porous carbon-based electrode layer 28, such as a layer of porous carbon material or activated carbon. The positive and negative current collectors 22 and 26 are, for example, aluminum foil layers.

[0062] Separators 20a and 20b are formed of tobacco material, such as a porous tobacco sheet, which releases volatile compounds when heated. In alternative configurations not shown, the separators may be formed of a suitable cellulose or polypropylene-based material, and the electrolyte may flow through tobacco material, such as clam tobacco, downstream of the condenser in an aerosol channel. The tobacco material may be placed between the condenser and the mouthpiece. The tobacco material adds flavor and nicotine to the aerosol. Heating by the condenser also heats or warms the tobacco material, thus promoting the release of volatile compounds. A nicotine-free flavor source may be used instead of the tobacco material.

[0063] Electrodes 16, 18 and separators 20a, 20b are immersed in an electrolyte that allows the movement of cations and anions when the capacitor 6 is charged or discharged, and generates an aerosol for inhalation by the user when heated. The electrolyte may contain sodium chloride and glycerol, and optionally polyvinyl alcohol as a gelling agent. However, other non-toxic or food-grade electrolytes may also be used. The capacitor 6 is pre-charged during the manufacturing process and sold to the user in a charged state, packaged.

[0064] Article 1 includes a positive capacitor terminal 30 electrically connected at one or more positions to a positive electrode 16, i.e., a positive electrode current collector 22, and a negative capacitor terminal 32 electrically connected at one or more positions to a negative electrode 18, i.e., a negative electrode current collector 26. The capacitor terminals 30, 32 may be located inside the outer casing of Article 1 so as not to be accessible by the user. This helps prevent unintended or intentional discharge of the capacitor 6 before the article is detachably inserted into the aerosol generator in preparation for initiating a vaping session.

[0065] Figure 4 shows an aerosol generator 34 adapted to receive an aerosol product 1. The device 34 includes a cavity 36 into which the article 1 can be inserted.

[0066] The apparatus 34 includes a pair of rupture devices 38, 40 adapted to rupture the distal end cap 10b of article 1 when article 1 is inserted into the cavity 36. The angular orientation of article 1 relative to the apparatus 34 when inserted into the cavity 36 may be restricted so that rupture device 38 makes an electrical connection with the positive electrode 30 and rupture device 40 makes an electrical connection with the negative electrode 32. Other methods may be used to ensure reliable electrical connection. For example, the positive and negative terminals of the article may have an annular structure, and appropriately positioned rupture devices may be coaxial with each other so as to make electrical contact with the terminals regardless of the angular orientation of the article relative to the apparatus.

[0067] The device 34 includes a switching circuit 42 and a power supply 44 such as a battery.

[0068] An example of the switching circuit 42 is shown in Figure 5. The switching circuit 42 includes rupture devices 38, 40 that function as positive and negative terminals and are electrically connected to the positive and negative terminals 30, 32 of article 1 when article 1 is properly accepted in the cavity 36. The switching circuit 42 includes a switching device 46 that can be operated by a controller 48 to control the discharge of capacitor 6 through the switching circuit 42. The controller 48 may include, for example, at least one microcontroller unit (MCU) or microprocessor unit (MPU).

[0069] After article 1 is inserted into the device 34, the capacitor 6 can be discharged by controlling the switching device 46 to provide a continuous or switched short-circuit path between the positive and negative terminals 30, 32 of article 1, and therefore between the positive and negative electrodes 16, 18 of the capacitor 6. The short-circuit path between the positive and negative terminals 30, 32 is formed via the switching device 46. Furthermore, the switching device 46 may include a resistor to prevent over-discharge current or an electrical load to enable constant current discharge. If the discharge current is maintained at a predetermined value, the current sensor described later may be omitted. Discharging the capacitor 6 through the switching circuit 42 causes the electrodes 16, 18 to dissipate heat. This heats the electrolyte and generates an aerosol that the user can inhale from the outlet 14 of the mouthpiece 12. Pre-charging the capacitor 6 reduces the amount of energy required for heating from the power supply 44 of the device. This can lead to a reduction in the overall size and weight of the device 34. In particular, the size and weight of the power supply 44 can be reduced. This is particularly noticeable because the power supply is often the largest and heaviest component of the device 34. In some cases, all the energy for heating is supplied by the capacitor 6, and the power supply 44 can be removed or reduced to supply power to other components of the device, such as a controller. However, in other cases, the energy provided by the capacitor 6 is used to complement or partially replace the energy provided by the power supply 44.

[0070] Capacitor 6 can also be charged from power supply 44 by controlling switching device 46 (or a separate switching device not shown in the switching circuit). Charging capacitor 6 also dissipates heat from electrodes 16, 18, which heat the electrolyte and generate an aerosol that the user can inhale through the outlet 14 of the mouthpiece 12. Heat can therefore be repeatedly generated by charging capacitor 6 from power supply 44 and then discharging the capacitor through switching circuit 42.

[0071] The switching device 46 that can be used to enable the discharge and charge of the capacitor 6 described above may include, for example, one or more switches. A discharge switch that controls the discharge current of the capacitor 6 may be connected in series between the burst devices 38 and 40 that define the positive and negative terminals of the switching circuit 42. A charging switch that controls the charge current of the capacitor 6 may be connected in series between the burst device 38, which is the positive terminal of the switching circuit 42, and the positive terminal of the power supply 44, and / or in series between the burst device 40, which is the negative terminal of the switching circuit 42, and the negative terminal of the power supply. These switches may be semiconductor switching devices, such as transistors.

[0072] Although not shown in the figures, the device 34 may include a current sensor for measuring the discharge current or charging current of the capacitor 6 and a voltage sensor for measuring the voltage output by the capacitor. The measurements provided by the current sensor and the voltage sensor are used to determine the electrical parameters of the capacitor, such as internal resistance or capacitance.

[0073] The apparatus 34 may optionally include one or more heaters 50. The heaters 50 can be used to heat the electrolyte in the capacitor 6 to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled by the user through the outlet 14 in the suction port 12. Such heating can be used to improve the heating control of the electrolyte, for example, during the heating or vaping phase.

[0074] The device 34 includes a visual indicator 52 that shows the amount of electrolyte to the user.

[0075] The remaining electrolyte level can be estimated or determined by the controller 48 from electrical parameters of the capacitor 6, such as internal resistance or capacitance, which are known to change depending on the amount of electrolyte. The electrical parameters of the capacitor 6 can be estimated or determined using at least one of the voltage, current, and time measurements obtained when the capacitor 6 is discharged or charged through the switching circuit 42, as described above. For example, if the electrical parameter is the internal resistance R of the capacitor 6 DCIn certain cases, it can be estimated or determined from the following formula.

number

[0076] Figure 6 shows a vaping session that includes a preheating phase PHP and a heating phase or vaping phase VP.

[0077] The controller 48 performs several steps to determine the amount of electrolyte.

[0078] An initial step performed at time T0, before the preheating phase begins, estimates or determines the initial value V0 of the electrical parameters of capacitor 6. This initial value V0 therefore indicates the initial amount of electrolyte in capacitor 6 before the start of the vaping session. The initial value V0 is assumed to determine a “baseline” comparable to subsequent values. For the purposes of the following explanation, it is assumed that the initial amount of electrolyte is at its maximum, i.e., that capacitor 6 is filled at the start of the vaping session. A visual indicator 52 may indicate to the user that capacitor 6 is filled with electrolyte.

[0079] In subsequent steps performed at times T1, T2, and T3, the subsequent values ​​V1, V2, and V3 of the electrical parameters of capacitor 6 are estimated or determined. The subsequent steps are performed during the heating or vaping phase and may respond to puff detection. The subsequent steps are performed if the temperature of capacitor 6 is maintained substantially constant. In other words, if the temperature is controlled to decrease or increase, the subsequent steps are not performed.

[0080] Next, the remaining amount of electrolyte is estimated or determined using the initial value V0 and the subsequent values ​​V1, V2, and V3. For example, the amount of electrolyte at time T1 is estimated or determined using the initial value V0 and the first subsequent value V1, the amount of electrolyte at time T2 is estimated or determined using the initial value V0 and the second subsequent value V2, and so on. If the electrical parameters are directly proportional to the amount of electrolyte, that is, if the electrical parameters decrease as the amount of electrolyte in capacitor 6 decreases, then the subsequent time T i The amount of electrolyte in the mixture can be estimated or determined by the following formula.

number

[0081] For example, if the subsequent value V1 is three-quarters of the initial value V0, the remaining electrolyte amount can be calculated as 75% of the initial amount at the start of the vaping session and may be communicated to the user via the visual indicator 52. Similarly, if the subsequent values ​​V2 and V3 are one-half and one-third of the initial value V0, respectively, the remaining electrolyte amounts can be calculated as 50% and 33% of the initial amount at the start of the vaping session and may be communicated to the user by controlling the visual indicator 52. It will be understood that the amount of electrolyte in the capacitor 6 can be calculated using other methods. For example, the amount of electrolyte can be estimated or determined using a relationship between the electrical parameters of the capacitor 6 (e.g., internal resistance or capacitance) and the amount of electrolyte, or a relationship between voltage, current, and time and one or more measured values ​​of the amount of electrolyte. This relationship can be, for example, linear or polynomial. In one example, estimated or determined values ​​V0, V1, V2, etc. of electrical parameters may correspond to the amounts of electrolyte A0, A1, A2, etc., according to a specific relationship. The amount of electrolyte can be derived, for example, using a reference table.

[0082] Referring to Figure 7, during the initial step and each subsequent step, the capacitor 6 is discharged and charged three times. Each time the capacitor 6 is discharged, the value of an electrical parameter is estimated or determined from one or more measurements of voltage, current, and time. The three values ​​are then averaged to obtain the values ​​V0, V1, ..., V3 described above. The capacitor 6 is discharged and charged between predetermined upper and lower limits, which are represented as the state of charge (SOC) in Figure 6. In particular, the capacitor 6 is substantially completely discharged and then substantially completely charged, with the upper limit being approximately 90-100% SOC and the lower limit being approximately 0-10% SOC.

[0083] The discharge current of capacitor 6 when it is close to a fully charged state tends to be larger than that of an intermediate state. The same is true for the charging current of capacitor 6 when it is close to a fully discharged state. Such large currents are not suitable for the temperature control described above. Therefore, except when the capacitor is discharged or charged to heat the electrolyte and generate an aerosol for inhalation by the user, i.e., when the initial step and each subsequent step are performed for the purpose of estimating or determining the amount of electrolyte, this discharge and / or charging is preferably performed in a narrow range between an intermediate state away from a fully discharged state and a fully charged state. The narrow range in which the capacitor is discharged and / or charged to heat the electrolyte can be determined by predetermined upper and lower limits. For example, when expressed in terms of state of charge (SOC), the upper limit may be about 50-80%, and the lower limit may be about 20-40%.

[0084] Referring to Figure 8, a first example of the visual indicator 52A is in the form of a ring surrounding the opening 54 of the aerosol generator 34 into which the aerosol product 1 is inserted during use. The visual indicator 52A includes one or more light emitters, for example, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) not shown. The controller 48 is adapted to change one or both of the color (i.e., wavelength) and intensity of the light emitted by each light emitter based on the amount of electrolyte. The color of the emitted light may be changed when the amount of electrolyte determined or estimated by the controller 48 falls below a set of thresholds, for example, the amount of electrolyte being about 95%, about 80%, about 60%, about 40%, about 20%, and about 5% of the initial amount. For example, the first color may be used when the amount of electrolyte exceeds the threshold of about 95% of the initial amount, i.e., when the capacitor 6 is substantially full. The second color may be used when the amount of electrolyte is less than about 95% but greater than about 80% of the initial amount. A third color may be used when the amount of electrolyte is less than approximately 80% but more than approximately 60% of the initial amount. A fourth color may be used when the amount of electrolyte is less than approximately 60% but more than approximately 40% of the initial amount. A fifth color may be used when the amount of electrolyte is less than approximately 40% but more than approximately 20% of the initial amount. A sixth color may be used when the amount of electrolyte is less than approximately 20% but more than approximately 5% of the initial amount. A seventh color may be used when the amount of electrolyte is less than approximately 5% of the initial amount, i.e., capacitor 6 is substantially empty. Figures 9A-9E show how the color of the visual indicator 52A changes as the amount of electrolyte decreases during a vaping session. At the start of the vaping session (i.e., time T0), capacitor 6 is full and the emitter is controlled so that the emitted light is the first color, so the initial amount of electrolyte (i.e., the initial value of the electrical parameter V0) is maximum. If, at time T1, V1 is three-quarters of the initial value V0 and the amount of electrolyte is three-quarters of the initial amount, the light emitter is controlled to emit light of the third color. If, at time T2, the value V2 is half of the initial value V0 and the amount of electrolyte is half of the initial amount, the light emitter is controlled to emit light of the fourth color. If, at time T3, the value V3 is one-third of the initial value and the amount of electrolyte is one-third of the initial amount, the light emitter is controlled to emit light of the fifth color.Finally, the amount of electrolyte (i.e., the final value V of the electrical parameter). n The time point T where ) is minimized. n The light emitter is controlled so that the emitted light is a seventh color, indicating to the user that capacitor 6 is empty.

[0085] The controller 48 can change the intensity of the emitted light based on the amount of electrolyte, rather than changing the color of the emitted light. For example, the intensity may decrease as the amount of electrolyte decreases. In one example, if the amount of electrolyte falls below the minimum amount, the intensity may be changed to the maximum intensity to notify the user that the capacitor 6 is empty or substantially empty. The color of the emitted light may also be changed to a predetermined color. For example, if the aerosol product 1 is incorrectly inserted into the aerosol generator 34, is damaged, or is not genuine, or if the aerosol generator 34 is malfunctioning, the color of the light emitted by the light emitter may also be changed to a predetermined color by the controller 48. The predetermined color can be customized or selected by the user.

[0086] The controller 48 may be adapted to control the light emitter to blink, i.e., to emit light intermittently. The controller 48 may be adapted to change the blinking frequency of the light emitter based on the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller. For example, as the amount of electrolyte remaining in capacitor 6 gradually decreases, the light emitter may be controlled to blink faster or slower. The controller 48 may be adapted to control the light emitter to blink if the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller 48 is below a predetermined threshold. For example, if the amount of electrolyte is less than about 5% of the initial amount, the light emitter may be controlled to blink. The light emitter may also be controlled to blink if the initial value falls below a threshold indicating the maximum amount of electrolyte, so that if blinking occurs at the start of a vaping session, the user will know that the aerosol product 1 has already been partially used.

[0087] Referring to Figure 10, a second example of the visual indicator 52B includes one or more compartments or panels 56A, 56B, ..., 56F. The visual indicator 52B is in the form of a ring surrounding the opening 54 of the aerosol generator 34 into which the aerosol product 1 is inserted when in use. The visual indicator 52A includes one or more light emitters, e.g., light-emitting diodes (LEDs) not shown. The controller 48 controls the light emitters to illuminate a specific number of compartments or panels based on the amount of electrolyte. The number of compartments to illuminate may change when the amount of electrolyte determined or estimated by the controller 48 falls below a set of thresholds, for example, when the amount of electrolyte falls below thresholds of approximately 95%, 80%, 60%, 40%, 20%, and 5% of the initial amount. For example, if the amount of electrolyte exceeds the threshold of approximately 95% of the initial amount, i.e., when the capacitor 6 is substantially full, six compartments may illuminate. If the electrolyte level is less than approximately 95% but more than approximately 80% of the initial level, five compartments may light up. If the electrolyte level is less than approximately 80% but more than approximately 60% of the initial level, four compartments may light up. If the electrolyte level is less than approximately 60% but more than approximately 40% of the initial level, three compartments may light up. If the electrolyte level is less than approximately 40% but more than approximately 20% of the initial level, two compartments may light up. If the electrolyte level is less than approximately 20% but more than approximately 5% of the initial level, one compartment may light up. If the electrolyte level is less than approximately 5% of the initial level, i.e., capacitor 6 is substantially empty, no compartments may light up. Figures 11A to 11E show how the number of illuminated compartments changes as the electrolyte level decreases during a vaping session. At the start of the vaping session (i.e., time T0), capacitor 6 is full, and the light emitter is controlled so that all six sections of the visual indicator 52B, namely sections 56A, 56B, ..., 56F, are lit, so the initial amount of electrolyte (i.e., the initial value of the electrical parameter V0) is at its maximum. At time T1, when the value V1 is three-quarters of the initial value and the amount of electrolyte is three-quarters of the initial amount, the light emitter is controlled so that only four sections of the visual indicator 52B, namely sections 56C, ..., 56F, are lit.At time T2, when the value V2 is half of the initial value and the amount of electrolyte is half of the initial amount, the light emitter is controlled so that only three sections of the visual indicator 52B, namely sections 56D, 56E, and 56F, light up. At time T3, when the value V3 is one-third of the initial value and the amount of electrolyte is one-third of the initial amount, the light emitter is controlled so that only two sections of the visual indicator 52B, namely sections 56E and 56F, light up. Finally, the amount of electrolyte (i.e., the final value V of the electrical parameter) is... n The time point T where ) is minimized. n In this case, the light emitters are controlled so that none of the compartments of the visual indicator 52B light up. In another example, one compartment, for example compartment 56F, may light up if one or more light emitters used to light that compartment are controlled to blink so that the user knows that the electrolyte level is at its minimum and the capacitor 6 is empty or substantially empty, and therefore the aerosol product 1 may need to be replaced or refilled. The color emitted by one or more light emitters may also be changed by the controller to a predetermined color, for example. In one example, if a vaping session is started using an empty or substantially empty capacitor 6, all of compartments 56A, 56B, ..., 56F may be controlled to light up in a predetermined color to indicate to the user that the capacitor is empty or substantially empty. This may be done as an alternative to starting a vaping session with none of compartments 56A, 56B, ..., 56F lit.

[0088] Referring to Figure 12, a third example of the visual indicator 52C is a display screen, such as a liquid crystal or LED display screen. The controller 48 may control the display screen 52C to display information that directly indicates the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller, such as an absolute value or a percentage indicating that capacitor 6 is full at 100% and empty at 0%. The duration of a particular vaping session may be determined according to the amount of electrolyte. The controller 48 may also control the display screen 52C to display the remaining duration of the vaping session (e.g., in minutes or seconds) or the remaining number of puffs, which can both be estimated or determined from the amount of electrolyte. The remaining duration of the vaping session depends on the user's vaping pattern; i.e., if the user takes strong puffs at short intervals, the electrolyte may be consumed more quickly, and the duration of the vaping session may be estimated based on the amount of electrolyte and then displayed to the user on the display screen 52C.

[0089] While exemplary embodiments were described in the preceding paragraph, it should be understood that various modifications to these embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the breadth and scope of the claims are not limited to the exemplary embodiments described above. For example, all exemplary embodiments relate to an aerosol product that includes a capacitor and in which a humectant for user inhalation also functions as an electrolyte, but it will be readily understood that the aerosol product may include any suitable aerosolizable humectant. In the exemplary embodiments described above, the capacitor may be replaced with an aerosol-generating material containing a suitable aerosol-forming agent, and a visual indicator may be controlled to inform the user of the amount of aerosol-forming agent remaining in the aerosol product. The amount of humectant may be estimated or determined by the controller of the aerosol generator using any suitable method. For example, the amount of humectant remaining in the aerosol product may be estimated or determined by measuring one or more electrical parameters, such as resistance or capacitance, that are known to change with the amount of humectant, for example, using a pair of electrodes. As is well known to those skilled in the art, other suitable methods may be used to estimate or determine the amount of humectants (e.g., aerosol-forming agents).

[0090] All possible combinations of the features described above in all possible variations are incorporated herein unless otherwise specified herein or are clearly inconsistent with the context.

[0091] Unless otherwise clearly stated in the context, terms such as “includes,” “contains,” and so on throughout this specification and the claims shall be interpreted in a comprehensive sense, not in an exclusive or exhaustive sense.

Claims

1. Aerosol generation system, An aerosol product (1) includes a capacitor (6) containing an electrolyte that generates an aerosol for inhalation by the user when heated, an aerosol generator (34) adapted to receive the aerosol product (1) during use and Includes, The capacitor (6) is configured to supply electrical energy for heating the electrolyte to generate an aerosol, The aerosol generating device (34) is Visual indicators (52, 52A, 52B, 52C), A controller (48) is provided, The controller (48) is Based on the electrical characteristics obtained from the charging or discharging behavior of the capacitor (6) during use, the amount of electrolyte in the capacitor (6) is estimated or determined. The visual indicators (52, 52A, 52B, 52C) are controlled based on the estimated or determined amount of electrolyte. Aerosol generation system.

2. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, wherein the electrical characteristics include changes in capacitance during repeated charge and discharge cycles.

3. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, wherein the controller estimates or determines the amount of electrolyte based on the correspondence between the change in the charge state of the capacitor and the consumption of the electrolyte.

4. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, wherein the capacitor (6) is an electric double-layer supercapacitor, and the electrical characteristics include capacitance due to the electric double layer.

5. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the visual indicators (52A, 52B) include one or more light emitters, and the controller (48) is adapted to change one or both of the color and intensity of the light emitted by each light emitter based on the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller (48).

6. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the visual indicators (52A, 52B) include one or more light emitters, and the controller (48) is adapted to control each light emitter to flash.

7. The aerosol generation system according to claim 6, wherein the controller (48) is adapted to change the frequency at which each light emitter flashes based on the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller (48).

8. The aerosol generating system according to claim 6, wherein the controller (48) is adapted to control each light emitter to blink when the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller (48) is less than a predetermined threshold.

9. The aerosol generation system according to claim 8, wherein the predetermined threshold indicates the maximum amount of electrolyte.

10. The aerosol generation system according to claim 8, wherein the predetermined threshold indicates the minimum amount of electrolyte.

11. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the visual indicator (52B) comprises one or more light emitters and a plurality of compartments or panels (56A, 56B, ..., 56F), and the controller (48) is adapted to control each light emitter to illuminate a predetermined number of compartments or panels (56A, 56B, ..., 56F) based on the amount of electrolyte estimated or determined by the controller.

12. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, wherein the visual indicators (52A, 52B) are formed in the shape of rings.

13. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus (34) includes an opening (54) for receiving the aerosol product (1), and the visual indicators (52A, 52B) substantially surround the opening (54).

14. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, wherein the visual indicator is a display screen (52C).

15. A method for visually presenting to a user the amount of electrolyte in a capacitor (6) of an aerosol product (1), wherein the capacitor (6) is configured to supply electrical energy to heat the electrolyte and generate an aerosol for inhalation by the user, and the method is Based on the electrical characteristics obtained from the charging or discharging behavior of the capacitor (6) during use, the amount of electrolyte in the capacitor (6) is estimated or determined. A method comprising controlling visual indicators (52, 52A, 52B, 52C) of an aerosol generator (34) adapted to accept the aerosol product (1) at time of use, based on the estimated or determined amount of electrolyte.

16. The visual indicators (52A, 52B) include one or more light emitters, and the method is Based on the amount of the electrolyte, the color and intensity of the light emitted by each light emitter may be changed, or both. Based on the amount of the electrolyte, the frequency at which each light emitter flashes is changed. The method according to claim 15, comprising one or both of the above.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the visual indicator (52B) includes a plurality of compartments or panels (56A, 56B, ..., 56F), and the method includes lighting up a predetermined number of compartments or panels (56A, 56B, ..., 56F) based on the amount of electrolyte.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein the visual indicator is a display screen (52C), and the method includes displaying information on the display screen (52C) ​​that directly or indirectly indicates the amount of the electrolyte.

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