Multi-Power Charging Case for Continuous Aerosol Device Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerosol-generating devices require large energy storage units for heating aerosol-forming substrates, which increase device size and weight, and existing systems with charging stations or cases can be cumbersome and require frequent cleaning or replacement.
Innovation Solution
A charging case with multiple power source cavities and a control unit that allows for interchangeable power sources, enabling redundancy and continuous operation by charging one source while using another, and allowing power switching during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If large energy storage units are used to power the aerosol-generating device, then the device can operate for extended periods, but the device size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power storage system is divided into multiple separate power sources (first power source and second power source) instead of using one large battery. Each power source can be independently managed, charged, and replaced, allowing the device to achieve extended operational duration through multiple smaller units working in sequence rather than requiring a single large heavy battery.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a charging station with high capacity energy storage is used, then the aerosol-generating device can be recharged between uses, but the system becomes more complex and requires frequent cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The power sources are made removable and can be taken out of the aerosol-generating device. This allows users to easily replace depleted power sources with charged ones without needing a complex integrated charging station. The power sources can be charged externally using standard charging methods, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining extended operational capability.
3Reliability
If multiple power sources are included in the device, then power source redundancy is achieved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a switching mechanism that dynamically selects between the first power source and the second power source based on their charge states. This dynamic power management allows the system to maintain reliability through redundancy while optimizing space utilization, as only one power source needs to be actively connected at any given time rather than both being permanently engaged.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures uninterrupted device operation by providing power source redundancy, extending lifespan, and allowing for easy replacement or recharging of depleted power sources without increasing device size or weight.
Implementation Method 1
the device typically comprises an atomiser, which is arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate when the article is received in the device
Implementation Method 2
Aerosol-generating device or case with multiple power sources... Each of the plurality of power sources may be removable and/or selectable
Data Source
AI summary
A charging case for an aerosol-generating device, the charging case including a case connector for receiving electrical power from an external source, a plurality of case cavities, a mounting section for connecting the aerosol-generating device to the charging case, and a case control unit. Each of the plurality of case cavities being configured to receive at least one of a plurality of power sources. The case control unit arranged to charge a first one of the plurality of power sources via the case connector using electrical power from the external power source and charge the aerosol-generating device connected to the mounting section via a second one of the plurality of power sources, or via the case connector using electrical power from the external power source.