A wireless charging transmitter, system, method and computer program for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device

Abstract

A system is disclosed, as well as a wireless charging transmitter, for charging an aerosol generating device (20). The system comprises a wireless charging transmitter (10) having a structure extending along a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter (10), the wireless charging transmitter (10) comprising a first coil unit (12) configured to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and a second coil unit (14) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction. The system also comprises a wireless charging receiver (22) included in the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device (20) is at least partially received, in a removable way, in the wireless charging transmitter (10) to allow magnetic coupling between the wireless charging transmitter (10) and the wireless charging receiver (22).

Description

[0001] JT International SA HE Ref . 275 517

[0002] TITLE

[0003] A wireless charging transmitter, system, method and computer program for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device .

[0004] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005] The present invention relates to wireless charging for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device .

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] Wireless charging is becoming an industry standard, and more and more companies are introducing it to devices like inhaler devices, such as electronic cigarettes and nebulizers . For example, an inhaler device uses a substrate (liquid, solid or a combination thereof ) containing an aerosol source for generating an aerosol, a flavor source for imparting a flavor component to the generated aerosol, and the like, to generate the aerosol having the flavor component imparted. The user can taste a flavor by inhaling the aerosol generated by the inhaler device and having the flavor component imparted. Such devices typically include a heater (which might be resistive, inductive, etc . ) that produces heat for obtaining the aerosol . As well as providing convenience for the user, the introduction of wireless charging also presents engineering challenges specific to this type of devices so that known solutions present problems requiring improvements .

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] The obj ect is achieved by the subj ect matter of the independent claims . Further embodiments are defined by the dependent claims . Further examples are provided to facilitate the understanding of the present disclosure . The following are some aspects of the present invention. El . A wireless charging transmitter ( 10) for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device (20) , wherein the wireless charging transmitter ( 10)

[0010] has a structure extending along a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , and

[0011] comprises a first coil unit ( 12 ) configured to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and a second coil unit ( 14 ) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction. Preferably, it can be said that the first coil unit is separate from the second coil unit (the two coils may be separated from each other, in the sense that they may not have structural parts in common) . Further preferably, the two coils may be operated in parallel, for example at the same time or in other words simultaneously. By this configuration, a homogenous magnetic field may be obtained, i . e . , the coils are preferably configured to generate a homogenous magnetic field for example in a volume defined by the two coils . The volume defined by the two coils may preferably include a volume enclosed by the two coils (e . g. , a volume encircled by the structure (s) making up the two coils) . For example, when considering a stick or a cartridge that can be inserted in the aerosol generating device, the two coils produce a homogeneous magnetic field that compensates for any misalignment of a stick / cartridge when the same is inserted in the aerosol generating device (in other illustrative words, one coil compensates for any misalignment of the stick / cartridge relative to the magnetic field axis generated by the other coil) .

[0012] E2 . The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to El, wherein the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) is configured to charge the aerosol generating device (20) by means of a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in the aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating device (20) is at least partially received, in a removable way, in the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) . E3. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of El to E2, wherein the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) including the first coil unit and the second coil unit is comprised in a fabric structure configured to receive the aerosol generating device .

[0013] E4 . The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to E3, wherein the first coil unit comprises electrically conductive plates provided on the fabric .

[0014] E5. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of El to E4, wherein the second coil unit comprises electrically conductive wires sewn into the fabric .

[0015] E6. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of El to E5, wherein the wireless charging transmitter is comprised in a substantially rigid charging unit comprising a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating device .

[0016] E7 . The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to E6, wherein the cavity of the charging unit has a size that allows airflow when the wireless charging unit receives the aerosol generating device . Preferably, the outer surface of the device forms a gap with the inner surface of the cavity for allowing air to flow therethrough.

[0017] E8. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of E6 to E7, wherein the cavity has a configuration, like size and / or shape, that allows receiving the wireless charging receiver without the cavity fully contacting the surface portion of the aerosol generating device received in the cavity .

[0018] E9. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of El to E8, wherein the wireless charging receiver is provided in proximity of at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol generating device that faces the wireless charging transmitter when received by the wireless charging transmitter .

[0019] E10. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of El to E9, wherein the wireless charging transmitter is connectable to a power source . Ell . The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of El to E10, wherein the first coil unit includes a birdcage coil unit and the second coil unit includes a Helmholtz coil unit .

[0020] E12. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to Ell , wherein the birdcage coil unit includes a plurality of legs generating a rotating field .

[0021] E13. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to Ell or E12, wherein the Helmholtz coil unit includes at least two coils spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction .

[0022] E14. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of El to E13, wherein at least a part of the second coil is placed in proximity Of the first coil .

[0023] E15. A system ( 1 ) for charging an aerosol generating device (20) , the system comprising a wireless charging transmitter according to any of El to E14, and a wireless charging receiver (22 )

[0024] E16. The system according to E15, wherein the aerosol generating device (20) is at least partially received, in a removable way, in the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) to allow magnetic coupling between the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) and the wireless charging receiver (22 ) . E17. Method for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device (20) by means of a wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) configured to receive, in a removably way, a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in an aerosol generating device (20) , the method comprising the steps of

[0025] operating (S10) a first coil unit ( 12 ) to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , operating (S20) a second coil unit ( 14 ) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction . E18. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method of claim E1717.

[0026] E19. System ( 1 ) for charging an aerosol generating device (20) , the system comprising:

[0027] a wireless charging transmitter (10) having a structure extending along a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) comprising a first coil unit ( 12 ) configured to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and a second coil unit ( 14 ) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction;

[0028] a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in the aerosol generating device; wherein

[0029] the aerosol generating device (20) is at least partially received, in a removable way, in the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) to allow magnetic coupling between the wireless charging transmitter ( 10 ) and the wireless charging receiver ( 22 ) .

[0030] E20. System according to E19, wherein the aerosol generating device (20) has a structure extending along a respective longitudinal direction ( z20) of the aerosol generating device and wherein the wireless charging receiver includes a coil extending along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device .

[0031] E21. System according to any of E19 to E20, wherein the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) including the first coil unit and the second coil unit is comprised in a fabric structure configured to receive the aerosol generating device . E22. Systema according to E21, wherein the first coil unit comprises electrically conductive plates provided on the fabric .

[0032] E23. System according to any of E19 to E22, wherein the second coil unit comprises electrically conductive wires sewn into the fabric . E24. System according to any of E19 to E23, wherein the wireless charging transmitter is comprised in a substantially rigid charging unit comprising a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating device .

[0033] E25. System according to E24, wherein the cavity of the charging unit has a size that allows airflow when the wireless charging unit receives the aerosol generating device . Preferably, the outer surface of the device forms a gap with the inner surface of the cavity for allowing air to flow therethrough .

[0034] E26. System according to any of E24 to E25, wherein the cavity has a configuration, like size and / or shape, that allows receiving the wireless charging receiver without the cavity fully contacting the surface portion of the aerosol generating device received in the cavity.

[0035] E27. System according to any of E19 to E26, wherein the wireless charging receiver is provided in proximity of at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol generating device that faces the wireless charging transmitter when received by the wireless charging transmitter .

[0036] E28. System according to any of E19 to E27, wherein the wireless charging transmitter is connectable to a power source .

[0037] E29. System according to any of E19 to E28, wherein the first coil unit includes a birdcage coil unit and the second coil unit includes a Helmholtz coil unit .

[0038] E30. System according to E29, wherein the birdcage coil unit includes a plurality of legs generating a rotating field E31. System according to E29 or E30, wherein the Helmholtz coil unit includes at least two coils spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction.

[0039] E32 . System according to any of E19 to E31, wherein at least a part of the second coil is placed in proximity Of the first coil .

[0040] BRIED DFESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS Fig. 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Fig. 2 shows a schematic block diagram of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the aerosol generating device is received in the wireless charging transmitter;

[0042] Fig. 3a shows a schematic block diagram of a wireless charging transmitter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Fig. 3b shows a schematic block diagram of a wireless charging transmitter according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Fig. 4 shows a flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Fig. 5 shows a block diagram of a computer including instructions for performing a method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figs . 6A-B show different views of an example of a system according to the present invention wherein the wireless charging transmitter is implemented on a fabric;

[0047] Figs . 6C-D show exploded views of the wireless charging transmitter and, respectively, of the aerosol generating device of Figs . 6A-B;

[0048] Fig. 7 shows an example of a system according to the present invention wherein the wireless charging transmitter is implemented in a rigid structure .

[0049] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Using wireless charging in aerosol generating devices (sometimes also called e-cigarettes , vaping devices, inhaling devices, etc . ) present engineering challenges . One of the main challenges is heat dissipation in the small body of the aerosol generating device, which becomes even more relevant in view of the fact that substantial heat is usually produced within such devices in order to generate aerosol (i . e . , not simply the heat dissipated by electronic components, etc . ) . Heat must then be dissipated from the battery to prevent overheating, which may lead to undesirable situations or conditions like for example aging of the battery, etc . . In addition, wireless charging efficiency decreases as the square of the distance between the transmitting and receiving coils increases . Another challenge is the correct positioning of the device in the charger . If the device is not properly aligned with a regular coil, charging is inefficient and generates a lot of residual heat . The present invention and disclosure aim at improving existing solutions and / or overcoming at least some of the problems as recognized by the inventors . In particular, the invention provides a uniform electric field within the charger, which increases the charging efficiency and decreases the device ' s heating. The solution is achieved by a wireless charging transmitter including a first coil unit that produces a field substantially perpendicular to one direction and a second coil unit that produces a field substantially aligned with the one direction. In one example, a birdcage coil (representing an example of the first coil unit) may be combined with a Helmholtz coil (an example of the second coil unit) , wherein the birdcage coil provides a magnetic field in the X, Y plane and the Helmholtz coil provides a field in the Z direction; in this way, it is possible to efficiently allow the charging of the device placed within the generated field also when the device or battery unit to be charged is not accurately positioned. Hence, when a wireless charging receiver is coupled to such a transmitter, the wireless coupling is improved regardless of the possibly inaccurate position between transmitter and charger . This improves the efficiency of charging and avoids or at least reduces the generation of unnecessary heat that would be otherwise generated by an inefficient charging. Also, this improves the ease of use, since there is no need for mechanical positioning in an accurate way the electronic cigarette inside the charger .

[0051] A description will now be given in conjunction with specific embodiments . The specific embodiments serve to provide the skilled person with a better understanding but are not intended to in any way restrict the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims . In particular, the embodiments described independently throughout the description can be combined to form further embodiments to the extent that they are not mutually exclusive .

[0052] With reference to Fig. 1, a first embodiment is described relating to a system ( 1 ) for charging an aerosol generating device (20) . The aerosol generating device may generate aerosol from a stick comprising an aerosol substrate (preferably, including tobacco-based components) in a solid form that generates aerosol when heated (without being burned, as in the so-called heat-non-burn devices) , or from a cartridge containing a liquid suitable for generating aerosol (containing for example tobacco-based components, or more in general nicotine, nicotine based components, etc . ) when heated, etc . The system comprises a wireless charging transmitter ( 10) and a wireless charging receiver (22 ) . The wireless charging transmitter, as it is clear from the terms alone, is responsible for transmitting power in a wireless manner, i . e . , without the need to establish a physical electrical contact (in other words, without the need of a wired contact) . The wireless charging receiver, which is interrelated to the transmitter, receives power wirelessly from the transmitter . The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) has a structure extending along a longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction may be a given direction of the transmitter, and does not necessarily relate to an external or internal dimension of the transmitter that is longer than other dimensions of the transmitter . In a preferable example, e . g. , when referring to an aerosol generating device that heats sticks, the transmitter extends prevalently along the longitudinal direction. In Fig. 1, the longitudinal axis is illustratively represented by the dash dotted line, which is indicated in a non-limiting way as z axis of a reference coordinate system x-y-z (where z is only a representative direction, that could be equally exchanged with x or y) . The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) comprises a first coil unit ( 12 ) and a second coil unit ( 14 ) . The first coil unit may be separate from the second coil unit . As also shown in the figures, in fact, the two coils may be separated from each other, in the sense that they may not have structural parts in common (preferably, the two coils can be separately operated) . The two coils may be operated in parallel, for example at the same time or in other words simultaneously; by operating the two coils in parallel (or in other words at the same time, in further other words simultaneously) , a homogenous magnetic field may be obtained. Thus, the coils are configured to generate a homogenous magnetic field for example in a volume defined by the two coils . The volume defined by the two coils may include a volume enclosed by the two coils (e . g. , a volume encircled by the structure (s) making up the two coils) . In other words, when considering a stick or a cartridge (as also further below illustrated) that can be inserted in the aerosol generating device, the two coils produce a homogeneous magnetic field, wherein one coil compensates for any misalignment of the e-cigarette stick relative to the magnetic field axis generated by the other coil . For example, as also below illustrated, when one coil is a birdcage coil and the other coil is a Helmholtz coil, the birdcage coil compensates for any misalignment of the stick or cartridge relative to the magnetic field axis generated by the Helmholtz coils . The first coil unit ( 12 ) is configured to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction z, i . e . , the magnetic field generated by the first coil unit is substantially zero in the longitudinal direction. The second coil unit ( 14 ) is configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction, i . e . , the magnetic field generated by the second unit is substantially zero in x-y planes that are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In other words, the magnetic field from the second coil unit ( 14 ) which is preferably substantially along the longitudinal direction is provided in at least a region where : 1. the first coil ( 12 ) forms the magnetic field substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and / or

[0053] 2. the wireless charging receiver (22 ) of the aerosolgenerating device (20) is located when the device (20) is received. Each of the first and second coil units may be realized by specific configurations including one or more coils, each specifically arranged as also illustrated further below. The term unit does not refer to the fact that each coil unit must be structurally made of one single piece; it can in fact be represented by a number of components, fixedly or removable combined to obtain a coil unit .

[0054] The system then comprises a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in the aerosol generating device (20) .

[0055] The aerosol generating device (20) is at least partially received, in a removable way (i . e . , removably) , in the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) to allow magnetic coupling between the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) and the wireless charging receiver (22 ) . The terms (at least) partially received refers to an (at least) partial engagement of the receiver in the transmitter, i . e . , (at least) partially received refers to a mechanical coupling which allows the receiver to have a magnetic coupling with the transmitter .

[0056] Fig. 1 shows the aerosol generating device (20) while it is not being received by the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) . Fig. 2 shows instead the aerosol generating device (20) while it is being received by the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , for example when the user inserts the aerosol generating device into a charger (which is an example of the transmitter, or which may include the transmitter) . In Fig. 2, the longitudinal direction of the receiver (20) is indicated with z20, while the longitudinal direction of the transmitter with z10. For the sake of illustration, the two axis z2o z10are aligned in Fig. 2. However, and as it will be further explained below, the axis z20and z10do not need to be necessarily aligned while still maintaining an efficient coupling and provided an advantageous solution. In fact, the two coil units generate a uniform field within a specific region so that the magnetic coupling between receiver and transmitter is improved also when the two axis z2o and z10are misaligned. Furthermore, while Figs . 1 and 2 illustrate shapes for the aerosol generating device, transmitter, receiver and coil units having a circular cross section, the invention and disclosure is however not limited to this . In fact, the invention functions also when the cross section has a different shape; examples below show for example the case where the cross section may have an elliptic shape with the coupling still reaching high efficiency. Also, the shape of the cross section, especially of the transmitter, does not need to be rigid but may also be flexible or deformable as it will be explained in further detail below.

[0057] Optionally, the aerosol generating device (20) has a structure extending along a respective longitudinal direction z2o of the aerosol generating device (20) and the wireless charging receiver (22 ) includes a coil extending along the longitudinal direction z20of the aerosol generating device . As anticipated, the longitudinal direction z20of the aerosol generating device does not need to be necessarily aligned with the direction z10of the transmitter, when the aerosol generating device is inserted in the transmitter .

[0058] Optionally, the wireless charging transmitter including the first coil unit and the second coil unit is comprised in a fabric structure configured to receive the aerosol generating device . This will also be illustrated further below and represents an example or variant of the present embodiment where the shape of the cross section is not necessarily circular and the shape of the transmitter not necessarily rigid .

[0059] In the optional case of using a fabric structure, the first coil unit may comprise electrically conductive plates provided on the fabric, which allow obtaining a coil that allows to shape the coil unit so that it can flexibly adapt to receive wireless charging receivers of different shapes and / or sizes and / or to more closely adhere to the receiver when this is removably inserted. The plates can be represented by a strip, track etc .

[0060] Optionally, the second coil unit comprises electrically conductive wires sewn into the fabric . Similar to the electrically conductive plates, this also allows flexibility in the mechanical coupling between the wireless transmitter and wireless charger .

[0061] Optionally, the wireless charging transmitter (20) is comprised in a substantially rigid charging unit comprising a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating device . In this example or variant of the present embodiment, the transmitter is provided in a rigid structure for receiving the wireless charging receiver; the opening of the rigid structure where the aerosol generating device is inserted does not need to match exactly or closely the size of the receiver, as it will be explained below also in relation to further examples and figures . Optionally, the rigid charging unit comprises a magnet, which is preferably placed in a lower part of the rigid charging unit, preferably at a position which is opposite to the opening from which the aerosol generating device is inserted. In this way, stability may be improved, when the aerosol generating device is inserted in the charging unit .

[0062] Optionally, the cavity of the charging unit has a size that allows airflow when the wireless charging unit receives the aerosol generating device . In other words, when the aerosol generating device (or the unit containing the wireless charging receiver) is received in the charging unit, space is left between the surface of the cavity (that received the device) and the outer surface of the device so that air can flow within such space . In an illustrating example, the outer surface of the device may form a gap for allowing air to flow therethrough .

[0063] Optionally, the cavity has a configuration, like size and / or shape, that allows receiving the wireless charging receiver without the cavity fully contacting the surface portion of the aerosol generating device received in the cavity. In other words, the device may partially touch the surface of the cavity; in further other words, at least part of the surface of the device may touch part of the surface of the cavity, while leaving space (e . g. , for airflow) in a region within the cavity where the device does not touch the surface of the cavity.

[0064] Optionally, the wireless charging receiver (22 ) is provided in proximity of (or substantially close to) at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol generating device ( 10) that faces the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) when received by the wireless charging transmitter . In other words, the wireless charging receiver (22 ) is placed inside the aerosol generating device, but sufficiently close to its outer surface to as to maximize the magnetic coupling with the transmitter and hence maximize energy transfer, while also allowing a more easily dissipation of heat to the surroundings . As the skilled person understands, sufficiently close or in proximity includes the case wherein the receiver is as close to the surface of the device when taking into account of other layers or components that may be present like for example the layer represented by the device case and / or an insulating layer, etc .

[0065] Optionally, the wireless charging transmitter is connectable to a power source, like for example to an electrical socket, a USB connector, an external battery pack, etc . Optionally, the wireless charging transmitter is included or is a charger (charging device) .

[0066] Optionally, the first coil unit includes a birdcage coil unit and the second coil unit includes a Helmholtz coil unit .

[0067] Optionally, the birdcage coil unit includes a plurality of legs generating a rotating (magnetic) field. For example, each of the plurality of legs is fed with a current that is shifted, relatively to each of its neighbouring legs, by a phase amount that depends on the number of the plurality of legs . More specifically in this example, a phase amount is determined as 2n / N (i . e . , 360 / N) , where N is the number of legs, and each leg Li amongst the legs Lx, L2... LNis fed with a current that is phase shifted by an amount a (with a = 2n / N) relatively to the neighbouring legs Li-x and Li+1. The legs may be represented by a conductor (or a plate, see above) that may be parallel to each other . In one example, each of the legs is individually fed with the corresponding phase-shifted current . In another example, one end or both ends of each leg can be connected, by respective connecting units, to the respective one or both ends of the other legs . The connection between two neighbouring legs may include an impedance having a value (R + jo, where R can be small or substantially zero or neglectable) that causes a phase shift between the current that is fed to two neighbouring legs . The connective unit (s ) connecting one or both ends of the legs can thus be fed with current, which is phase shifted by the impedance before being fed to the respective leg. The above described are examples of second coil units capable of generating a field that is rotating and that is present in the x-y plane, i . e . , a field that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction z. The birdcage coil is not limited to the present way of implementing the same as far as it generates the described field. By end and other ends of the legs, reference is made to the opposite respective distal ends of each leg.

[0068] Optionally, the Helmholtz coil unit includes at least two coils spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction. Further optionally, at least a part of the second coil is placed in proximity of the first coil, for example in proximity of one or both distal ends of the first coil along the longitudinal direction z. For example, a first coil of the Helmholtz coil is placed in proximity or outwardly (in the z direction relatively to the first coil unit) of one end of the first coil unit (e . g. , one end of the birdcage unit) and the second coil of the Helmholtz coil is placed in proximity or outwardly (in the z direction, relatively to the first coil unit) of the other end of the first coil unit (e . g. , one end of the birdcage unit) . In proximity means that it is sufficiently close as far as tolerances or other technical constraints require, in order to have a uniform field distribution within a given region of the wireless charging transmitter . In particular, in proximity includes that it is substantially adj acent (where substantially refers to the usual tolerances, etc . ) . In this example, the two coils of the Helmholtz coil unit are described as being placed in proximity of opposite distal ends of the birdcage unit . While this is preferable in terms of uniformity of the field and efficiency, it is conceivable placing the two coils only in proximity of one end of the birdcage unit . Each of the two coils of the Helmholtz coil units may be realized by one or more windings, and / or by respective rings, etc .

[0069] What has been stated above correspondingly applies to the following embodiments and examples, as well as vice versa, so that repetitions are avoided for conciseness .

[0070] A description is now provided of a wireless charging transmitter ( 10) for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device (20) according to a second embodiment . Reference will be made to Figs . 3A and 3B, as well as to the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) of Figs . 1 and 2 (same reference signs indicate same or corresponding parts) . The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) has a structure extending along a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , and comprises a first coil unit ( 12 ) configured to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and a second coil unit ( 14 ) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction. The first and second coil units can thus be represented as in Figs . 1 and 2 (with the aerosol generating device being disengaged and, respectively, engaged with the charging unit) , as explained above with reference to the first embodiment . In Figs . 1 and 2 the second coil unit is represented schematically as one single block. Fig. 3A shows the case wherein the second coil unit may include two coils 14' and 14' ’ spaced apart along the longitudinal direction and each coil placed in proximity of the first coil unit . Fig. 3B shows the case wherein the second coil unit may include two coils 14' and 14' ’ both placed in proximity of one distal end of the first coil unit along the longitudinal direction. In Fig. 3B the two coils 14' and 14' ’ are illustrated in proximity of the upper distal end, but may equally be placed in the lower part, i . e . , in proximity of the lower distal end.

[0071] Such wireless charging transmitter ( 10) is suitable to charge the aerosol generating device (20) by means of a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in the aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating device (20) is at least partially received, in a removable way, in the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) . In this way, a magnetic coupling between the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) and the wireless charging receiver is efficiently achieved.

[0072] In the above referred figures and discussion, the first coil unit ( 12 ) and the second coil unit ( 14 ) may have the same diameter . The present disclosure is however not limited thereto, in fact the diameters of the first coil unit ( 12 ) and the second coil unit ( 14 ) may be different . For example, the second coil unit ( 14 ) may have a larger diameter than the diameter of the first coil unit ( 12 ) , and may be preferably located for example outside of the first coil unit (in other words, the second coil may surround the first coil) . This may be advantageously implemented for example when the charger wall has layered structure .

[0073] With reference to Fig. 4, a third embodiment is described relating to a method for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device (20) by means of a wireless charging transmitter ( 10) . The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) is configured to receive, in a removably way, a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in an aerosol generating device (20) . The method comprises a step of operating (S10) a first coil unit ( 12 ) to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) . Further, the method includes a step of operating (S20) a second coil unit ( 14 ) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction. The method optionally foresees the operation of the wireless charging transmitter also according to any of the above optional features (and any combination thereof ) described in relation to the other embodiments . Optionally, the method includes activating the wireless charging transmitter in response to a detection that the aerosol generating device has been received by the transmitted (e . g. , by means of a sensor that detects the presence of the aerosol generator, or by measuring at certain points in time currents that indicate the presence of a coupling with the receiver, etc . ) .

[0074] A further embodiment, here described with reference to Fig. 5, relates to a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the abo described method. A computer suitable for such a purpose is illustrated in Fig. 5.

[0075] Referring now to Figure 5, a schematic diagram is described that illustrates an implementation of a computer that can perform the method herein described. The computer includes at least a processor 71, a memory 72 and an I / O interface 73. The processor 71 is configured to execute instructions included in a computer program stored on the memory 72 to perform any of the functions of the wireless charging transmitter . The memory 72 is configured to store the computer program. During the execution of computer program instructions, processor 71 receives information from other devices via I / O interface 73 and outputs information to other devices via I / O interface 73. It is understood that the various elements of the device 70 need not be placed in a single housing, as the box is purely illustrative . The interface 73 may include a power connection for receiving external power, e . g. , via a USB connection, a connection to an external battery pack, a connection to a power socket to a utility network, etc .

[0076] In the following, first and second examples will be described of how the above can be implemented, wherein both examples rely on combining a birdcage coil (as an example of the first coil unit) and a Helmholtz coil (as an example of the second coil unit) . The birdcage coil generates a magnetic field in the x-y plane through AC currents in its legs, which are sequentially phase-shifted based on the number of legs to create a rotating field. End rings are provided and contribute to the coil unit ' s structure and provide an electrical connection. Offset, but near the end, of the rings are two further coils used to make up the Helmholtz coil . The purpose of the Helmholtz coil is to generate the magnetic field in the z-direction. Combining the Helmholtz and birdcage coils ensures effective power transfer in all three dimensions . With reference to the birdcage coil unit, capacitances are usually provided to obtain the phase shift for the different legs . For example, the capacitance may be obtained in the form of a discrete capacitor component, and / or in the form of a distributed capacitance along the ring in combination with the legs, and / or by way of a particular shape and / or displacement of the conductors making up the ring and respective leg. Capacitance is here mentioned, although more in general this can be understood as any impedance value that provides the necessary phase shift . Alternatively, or in combination, it is conceivable to feed each leg with an appropriately phase shifted signal .

[0077] According to the first example, illustrated in Figs . 6A to 6D, a birdcage coil unit and a Helmholtz coil unit are placed within a flexible fabric sleeve made for example of polyurethane fabric (or any other suitable fabric, like for example polyester blends, natural fibers, etc . ) . The Birdcage coil may be made of copper plates (stainless steel plates can also be considered) that form a cylindrical coil pattern. The undulating design of the Birdcage coil unit allows for good folding of the coil . The plates may be also represented by strip-shaped conducting elements . The Helmholtz coil may be made from 0.2mm diameter copper wire spirally sewn into the polyethene fabric and connected to a circuit board (not shown) , placing the coil close to the Birdcage transmitter . This helps to cool the unit by transferring heat to the outside . The sewing machine for obtaining the solution according to example may be equipped with a turntable that rotates the sleeve and sews the copper wire into it . The sleeve can have a screen-printed logo on the top . The horizontal spacing of the copper wire bumps may be in one example 1.2mm and the vertical spacing 0. 6mm. The fabric, together with the wire, can be protected with a sprayed epoxy coating to increase wear resistance . Example coatings include PVC (polyvinyl chloride) , PE (polyethene) or XLPE (cross-linked polyethene) , which also prevent shorts, etc . In one example, the birdcage coil may comprise films of conductors and capacitors, which may be for example printed on the fabric . Also, the birdcage coil elements may be formed on a flexible PCB (s) which is (are) laminated with the fabric . The PCB (s) may be adhered on a fabric or embedded between two layers of fabric . Also, one of the advantages of this solution is that the wireless charger has a reduced size .

[0078] Fig. 6A shows a wireless charging transmitter 610 realized within a fabric and when engaged with the aerosol generating device 620, i . e . the device 520 is inserted into the flexible or elastic transmitter 610 ( for simplicity, also charger here) . In particular, Fig. 6A shows how the fabric allows the charger to be folded flat and how the aerosol generating device can be inserted into the sleeve of the fabric material . One advantage of this configuration is that it reduces the size of the charger when not in use, but when in use, it can be used to charge devices of different sizes . The fit of the device does not need to be perfect within the sleeve as the two coils provide a uniform magnetic field to charge what is within. As it can be seen from Figs . 6A and 6B, the cross-section of the aerosol generating device 620 can be circular or elliptical; the wireless charging transmitter will be capable of fitting both while providing a good efficiency in either case . The charger 630 may be connected to the wireless transmitter 610 via any suitable connector . The wireless charging receiver may however be also directly connected to another charger, and not necessarily to the device 630 represented in these figures .

[0079] Figs . 6C and 6D are exploded views of the transmitter 610 and, respectively, of the aerosol generating device 620. Fig. 6C shows the case where the first coil unit is represented by a birdcage unit having a certain number of legs N, joined together at both distal ends by respective elements that are illustrated as having a ring-shape . With reference to Fig. 6D, the receiving coil unit 622 of the device 620 is preferably wrapped in a helical coil close to the surface of the device to maximise the coupling between the two coil units of the wireless charging transmitter . It receives the current from the transmitting coils, which in turn receives the current from either a USB stick or from a battery within the charging sleeve, as shown by the component 630 illustrated in Figs . 6C and 6D. In fact, the external supply unit 630 may be represented by a USB stick connectable to a power plug, and / or may optionally include a battery for recharging the inhaler device 620. The unit 630 may optionally include a display, for example to indicate how much charge is left in the inhaler 620 and / or in the unit 630. In one example, the unit 630 may simply be a cable connecting on one end to the transmitter 630 and on the other end presenting a USC connector (as illustrated for example in Fig. 7 ) . In Fig. 6D, a plastic support (not shown) may be present to hold the coil 622. Also, between the coil 622 and the case, other layers or elements may be present (e . g. , insulating layer, adhesive layer to hold the coil, etc) .

[0080] According to the second example, a birdcage coil unit and a Helmholtz coil unit are placed within a case structure that may have the shape of a cup . The cup is taken, for illustration purposes, as an example of a shape for the housing (i . e . , the external surface) of the wireless charging transmitter where the area of cross section becomes smaller along its longitudinal direction from an upper end where the inhaler is inserted to a lower end. The cup may be made of a rigid material such as acrylic glass, borosilicate glass or epoxy resin, which houses both coils . The cup doesn' t have to be transparent, so other materials such as moulded ABS are also applicable . The left part of Fig. 7 shows that there is an offset (i . e . , space) between the connecting coil (illustrated as a ring) connecting the legs) of the birdcage and the Helmholtz coil (illustrated as a ring) . However, the Helmholtz coils may be spaced apart from the birdcage along the z direction and / or inside or outside the birdcage coils in an x-y plane passing through the birdcage coil (in other words, the Helmholtz coils need not necessarily be placed outside the birdcage in the longitudinal direction z) . This applies to both the first and second examples, as well as to the other embodiments (including the optional features) and examples described herein.

[0081] Inside the housing (cup) , the Birdcage coil may be formed from two metal rings (preferably copper, or alternatively aluminium or stainless steel) . In one example, the outer diameter of the rings is 20mm, with a wall thickness of preferably 0.05 mm (however, it can be from 0.4mm to 0.01mm) . The vertical ribs are formed from 12 copper sheets (examples of plates, which in this case may be considered as bars or stripes or tracks) with a width of 2mm and a thickness of 0.05mm (in one example, the same as circular rings) . The vertical ribs are soldered to the two rings forming the Birdcage coil which is connected to the PCB via connectors on the top and bottom ring. In one example, the phase shift is preferably within 15° and 45° , and in one further example is preferably 30° . The phase shift is obtained in one of the ways also previously illustrated (see the discussion on capacitance or impedance added in the form of a discrete component and / or distributed, etc . ) and / or as evident to the skilled person.

[0082] The Helmholtz coil may be formed from 0 . 2mm- 0 . 3mm wire ( s ) , which is preferably copper or alternatively aluminium. In this example, the wire has at least three rotations (without any limitation to three, being other smaller or larger values possible) around the Z axis forming the Helmholtz coil . One Helmholtz coil is located below, and another one is above the Birdcage coil . Both Helmholtz coils are connected to the PCB with AWG wires on the sides (AWG stands for American Wire Gauge, wherein AWG indicates a standardized wire gauge system used to specify the diameter of a round, solid, nonferrous, electrically conducting wire; a PCT may be connected or interfaced with wires specified by the AWG) . The cup does not necessarily have to have the inner walls parallel . Instead, as shown in Figure 7, the cup could have a larger diameter at the opening than at the base . When the device is placed within the cup, it would naturally lean to one side or the other, but due to the dual coils used, this would not affect charging efficiency. The receiving coil is placed between the outer plastic handle and the plastic support . One of the advantages lies in that it is easier to place the device within the charger, so that, for example, it can be placed in for charging between puf f s / sessions quickly and easily for the user .

[0083] Similar to the first ( fabric) example, the charging efficiency of the device is not dependent on the alignment of the receiving coil within the transmitting coils nor on the size of the coils . This allows for fast charging of devices of different sizes without causing excess heating. Furthermore, less material in contact with the device surface improves the airflow across the surface to allow for improved cooling between puf f s / sessions, which aids the device ' s performance .

[0084] In the example of Fig. 7, a PCB may be inserted within the housing, for example at the bottom. Other components, like an LED, may be provided. The right-hand side of Fig. 7 shows the case wherein the inhaler is inserted within the housing, in particular, within the cavity provided in the housing. As shown in the figure, it can be seen that space is present between the inhaler and the inner surface of the cavity, so that airflow may be present . In the figure, the inhaler is shown in a vertical position, so that the receiver is aligned vertically with the coil units of the cup . However, the inhaler may lean away from the vertical direction, for example so that it touches the cavity of the cup . Since the field inside the cavity of the cup is uniform, the magnetic coupling is still optimized so that efficiency is improved. Also, there is no need for mechanical positioning of the electronic cigarette inside the charger, which improves ease of use .

[0085] It is noted that the birdcage and Helmholtz coil units are provided as examples for generating fields in the x-y plan and z direction, respectively. While these coil units are relatively easy to realize, the invention is not limited thereto . In fact, the same or similar field distribution may be obtained by means of other coil units : for example, it is conceivable using an array of radiating elements, wherein each of a set of such radiating elements is appropriately fed with a current so that the radiating field propagates in the x-y plane; another set of such radiating elements is fed with corresponding current that produce a field radiated along the z direction. It may be said that an array structure may be conceived similar to the concept of an antenna array, where single radiating elements can be controlled to create destructive and / or constructive interference ( s ) so that ultimately the discussed x-y plane field and the discussed y direction field are obtained.

[0086] Furthermore, what has been said with reference to a system applies equally to each of the devices or components (e . g. the receiver and transmitter) belonging to such system, regardless and independently of the other component (s) of the system. Also, what is stated for the system or one of its components correspondingly applies to a method for operating any of such system components . Naturally, the above description of embodiments and examples applying the principles recognized by the inventors is reported only as an example of such principles and must therefore not be understood as a limitation of the scope of the patent claimed here .

Claims

25Claims1. A wireless charging transmitter ( 10) for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device (20) , wherein the wireless charging transmitter ( 10)has a structure extending along a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , andcomprises a first coil unit ( 12 ) configured to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and a second coil unit ( 14 ) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction.

2. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to claim 1, wherein the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) is configured to charge the aerosol generating device (20) by means of a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in the aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating device (20) is at least partially received, in a removable way, in the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) .

3. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of claims 1 to 2, wherein the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) including the first coil unit and the second coil unit is comprised in a fabric structure configured to receive the aerosol generating device .

4. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to claim 3, wherein the first coil unit comprises electrically conductive plates provided on the fabric .

5. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second coil unit comprises electrically conductive wires sewn into the fabric .

6. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the wireless charging transmitteris comprised in a substantially rigid charging unit comprising a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating device .

7. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to claim 6, wherein the cavity of the charging unit has a size that allows airflow when the wireless charging unit receives the aerosol generating device .

8. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of claims 6 to 7, wherein the cavity has a configuration, like size and / or shape, that allows receiving the wireless charging receiver without the cavity fully contacting the surface portion of the aerosol generating device received in the cavity.

9. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the wireless charging receiver is provided in proximity of at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol generating device that faces the wireless charging transmitter when received by the wireless charging transmitter .

10. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the wireless charging transmitter is connectable to a power source .

11. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first coil unit includes a birdcage coil unit and the second coil unit includes a Helmholtz coil unit .

12. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to claim 11, wherein the birdcage coil unit includes a plurality of legs generating a rotating field.

13. The wireless charging transmitter ( 10) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the Helmholtz coil unit includes at least two coils spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction.

14. Method for wirelessly charging an aerosol generating device (20) by means of a wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) configured to receive, in a removably way, a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in an aerosol generating device (20) , the method comprising the steps ofoperating (S10) a first coil unit ( 12 ) to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) ,operating (S20) a second coil unit ( 14 ) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction.

15. System ( 1 ) for charging an aerosol generating device (20) , the system comprising:a wireless charging transmitter ( 10) having a structure extending along a longitudinal direction of the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) , the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) comprising a first coil unit ( 12 ) configured to generate a magnetic field that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and a second coil unit ( 14 ) configured to generate a magnetic field substantially along the longitudinal direction;a wireless charging receiver (22 ) included in the aerosol generating device; whereinthe aerosol generating device (20) is at least partially received, in a removable way, in the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) to allow magnetic coupling between the wireless charging transmitter ( 10) and the wireless charging receiver ( 22 ) .

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