Aerosol-generating device and actuator
By introducing electrically operable actuators and sensors into the aerosol generation device to control the fluid channel, the problems of atomizer oversaturation and shortened shelf life caused by premature liquid injection into the reservoir are solved, achieving controllability and safety of fluid communication.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SHENZHEN FIRST UNION TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-10
Smart Images

Figure CN122350403A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of aerosol generation technology, and in particular to an aerosol generation device and actuator. Background Technology
[0002] An aerosol generating device is a device that includes an atomizer. The atomizer includes a storage chamber for storing a liquid formulation and an atomizing core for atomizing the liquid formulation to generate an aerosol. However, the capacity of the storage chamber is relatively small, generally not exceeding 2 ml. To increase the capacity of the aerosol generating device to store liquid formulations, a new type of aerosol generating device exists. This device also includes a reservoir with a secondary storage chamber for storing the liquid formulation. After the reservoir and the atomizer are combined to form a complete aerosol generating device, the secondary storage chamber of the reservoir is in fluid communication with the storage chamber of the atomizer, thereby allowing the reservoir to inject the liquid formulation into the atomizer.
[0003] However, on the one hand, prematurely adding liquid formulation to the atomizer before it is consumed can lead to oversaturation of the storage chamber, causing leakage. On the other hand, during the storage period before the first vape, the liquid formulation stored in the atomizer comes into contact with air through the atomizer coil, resulting in a shorter shelf life for the liquid formulation stored in the atomizer compared to that stored in the storage container. If the storage container adds liquid formulation to the atomizer too early, it will slow down the consumption rate of the liquid formulation originally stored in the atomizer. Consequently, over long-term use, the atomizer coil may atomize expired liquid formulation, generating unhealthy aerosols.
[0004] Application content
[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide an aerosol generating device and actuator that enables controllable timing of fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber in the aerosol generating device.
[0006] At least one embodiment of this application provides an aerosol generating apparatus, which includes:
[0007] A storage assembly, including a first chamber for storing a liquid matrix;
[0008] An atomizing assembly includes a second chamber for storing a liquid matrix and an atomizing core for atomizing the liquid matrix stored in the second chamber to generate an aerosol; a fluid channel is established between the storage assembly and the atomizing assembly to replenish the liquid matrix in the first chamber to the second chamber;
[0009] A blocking mechanism for closing or opening the fluid passage;
[0010] An actuator, configured to electrically transition from a first state to a second state, wherein when the actuator is in the first state, the blocking mechanism closes the fluid passage, and when the actuator is in the second state, it actuates the blocking mechanism to open the fluid passage; and
[0011] The power supply is electrically connected to the atomizing assembly to provide electrical power to the atomizing core, and electrically connected to the actuator to provide electrical power to the actuator so that the actuator irreversibly transitions from the first state to the second state.
[0012] In some embodiments, the device further includes a controller and a sensor for sensing the consumption or remaining amount of liquid matrix in the second chamber, the controller being electrically connected to the sensor and the power supply to control the power supply to provide electrical power to the actuator via a sensing signal generated by the sensor.
[0013] In some embodiments, the sensor includes an airflow sensor configured to sense the suction action based on changes in airflow generated during suction.
[0014] The controller is configured to control the power supply to provide electrical power to the atomizing core when the airflow sensor senses a suction action.
[0015] In some embodiments, the sensing signal includes the cumulative number of puffs or the cumulative puff duration, and the controller is configured to control the power supply to provide electrical power to the actuator when the cumulative number of puffs or the cumulative puff duration reaches a threshold, or when the remaining value of the preset total number of puffs or the total puff duration of the atomizing component drops to the threshold.
[0016] In some embodiments, the actuator is held on the storage assembly, thereby forming an integral unit with the storage assembly, the integral unit being connected to the atomizing assembly.
[0017] In some embodiments, the storage assembly further includes a first electrode and a second electrode, and the actuator is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode;
[0018] The atomizing component further includes a third electrode and a fourth electrode, and the power supply is electrically connected to the third electrode and the fourth electrode;
[0019] When the whole assembly is connected to the atomizing component, the first electrode abuts against the third electrode, and the second electrode abuts against the fourth electrode.
[0020] In some embodiments, the storage assembly includes a first housing and a base, the first chamber being located inside the first housing, and the base being connected to the first housing and sealing the first chamber;
[0021] The actuator, the first electrode, and the second electrode are all held on the base.
[0022] In some embodiments, the blocking mechanism includes a first seal that blocks the fluid passage when the actuator is in a first state;
[0023] The actuator includes a projectile that is linked to the first seal. The projectile is configured to change position when the actuator is in the second state, thereby causing the first seal to change position and opening the fluid channel.
[0024] In some embodiments, the storage component is provided with a first flow guide hole that is fluidly connected to the first chamber, and the atomizing component is provided with a second flow guide hole that is fluidly connected to the second chamber;
[0025] When the actuator is in the first state, the first seal is located between the first guide hole and the second guide hole, and seals the first guide hole and / or the second guide hole.
[0026] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a second seal that provides a seal between the storage component and the atomizing component to prevent leakage of the liquid matrix when the first flow orifice and the second flow orifice are in fluid communication;
[0027] The second seal is disposed around the first seal, and the first seal, when the actuator is in the second state, has a gap between itself and both the first and second guide holes, and has a third guide hole that fluidly communicates with the second seal, connecting the first and second guide holes.
[0028] In some embodiments, the actuator includes a base, a projectile, an elastic element, and a fuse. The base includes a first conductive portion, the projectile includes a second conductive portion, and the elastic element connects the base and the projectile.
[0029] The fuse is configured to connect the first conductive part and the second conductive part when the actuator is in the first state, so that the elastic element maintains elastic deformation, and disconnects when the actuator is in the second state, thereby driving the position of the warhead to change.
[0030] In some embodiments, the side of the projectile away from the base includes an impact portion and a first groove recessed relative to the impact portion, and one end of the fuse wire extends out of the projectile and is welded to the second conductive portion in the first groove.
[0031] In some embodiments, the actuator further includes a second housing, wherein at least a portion of the fuse and at least a portion of the elastic element are disposed inside the second housing;
[0032] The first conductive part is used for electrical connection with the first electrode, and the second housing includes a third conductive part. When the actuator is in the first state, a portion of the third conductive part is electrically connected to the second conductive part, and the portion is an electrical connection part for electrical connection with the second electrode. The electrical connection part and the first conductive part are disposed adjacent to the same end of the actuator.
[0033] In some embodiments, the base includes a support surface that supports the projectile by supporting the elastic element, and the support surface is inclined such that at least a portion of the projectile is inclined relative to the second housing when the actuator is in a first state, so that the second conductive part and the third conductive part remain electrically connected.
[0034] At least one embodiment of this application provides an aerosol generating apparatus, which includes:
[0035] power supply;
[0036] A storage assembly, including a first chamber for storing a liquid matrix;
[0037] An atomizing assembly includes a second chamber for storing a liquid matrix and an atomizing core for atomizing the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol, wherein a fluid channel is established between the storage assembly and the atomizing assembly to replenish the liquid matrix in the first chamber to the second chamber.
[0038] A blocking mechanism for closing or opening the fluid passage;
[0039] An actuator is configured to have an electrically operable switchable first state and a second state, wherein when the actuator is in the first state, the blocking mechanism closes the fluid passage, and when the actuator is in the second state, the blocking mechanism is driven to open the fluid passage.
[0040] An airflow sensor detects the user's suction movements; and
[0041] The controller is configured to record the cumulative number of puffs or the cumulative puff duration. When the cumulative number of puffs or the cumulative puff duration reaches a threshold, or when the remaining value of the preset total number of puffs or the total puff duration of the atomizing component drops to the threshold, the controller controls the power supply to provide electrical power to the actuator, so that the actuator changes from the first state to the second state.
[0042] At least one embodiment of this application provides an actuator.
[0043] It should be used in an aerosol generating apparatus having a first chamber and a second chamber, both of which are used to store a liquid matrix and a fluid channel for transferring the liquid matrix is established between them;
[0044] The actuator includes a base, a first conductive part and a third conductive part for electrical connection to a power source, and a fuse electrically connected between the first conductive part and the third conductive part, wherein the first conductive part and the third conductive part are disposed adjacent to the same end of the actuator;
[0045] The actuator has an electrically operable switchable first state and a second state, and the actuator is configured to irreversibly transition from the first state to the second state when energized, and to open the fluid passage when transitioning to the second state.
[0046] The aerosol generating device and actuator provided in the above embodiments are described above. In the aerosol generating device, both the first and second chambers are used to store the liquid matrix. When the power supply provides electrical power to the actuator, the actuator can switch from a first state to a second state. After the actuator switches to the second state, the fluid channel between the first and second chambers opens. Therefore, by manipulating the actuator, the timing of the fluid connection between the first and second chambers can be controlled, preventing the storage component from prematurely injecting the liquid matrix into the atomizing component. Attached Figure Description
[0047] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. In all the drawings, similar elements or parts are generally identified by similar reference numerals. In the drawings, the elements or parts are not necessarily drawn to scale.
[0048] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the actuator provided in some embodiments of this application in its first state;
[0049] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the actuator provided in some embodiments of this application in a second state;
[0050] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application when the actuator is in the first state;
[0051] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus provided in some embodiments of this application when the actuator is in the second state;
[0052] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an atomizing component provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0053] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the seal provided in some embodiments of this application when the actuator is in the first state;
[0054] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the seal provided in some embodiments of this application when the actuator is in the second state;
[0055] Figure 8 These are circuit diagrams provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0056] Figure 9 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus provided in other embodiments of this application when the actuator is in the first state;
[0057] Figure 10 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus provided in other embodiments of this application when the actuator is in the second state;
[0058] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a telescopic component provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0059] In the picture:
[0060] 100. Aerosol generating device;
[0061] 1 / 1′, Actuator; 11, Base; 111, First conductive part; 1111, Second groove; 112, Base; 113, Support surface; 12, Projectile; 121, Second conductive part; 122, Impact part; 123, First groove; 124, Second stop part; 13, Elastic element; 14, Connecting wire; 141, Fuse wire; 15, Second housing; 151, Third conductive part; 1511, Electrical connection part; 152, First stop part; 16, Solder; 17, Telescopic element;
[0062] 2. Storage component; 21. First chamber; 22. Suction nozzle; 23. First housing; 24. First air guide tube; 25. Base; 251. Support component; 252. Flexible component; 26. First flow guide hole;
[0063] 3. Atomizing assembly; 31. Second chamber; 32. Atomizing core; 321. Liquid suction element; 322. Heating element; 33. Second air guide tube; 34. Liquid storage element; 35. Second flow guide hole; 36. Supporting part;
[0064] 4. Power supply; 5. Third housing; 61. First seal; 62. Second seal; 63. Connecting rib; 64. Third guide hole; 7. Controller; 8. Sensor. Detailed Implementation
[0065] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0066] The terms "first," "second," and "third" used in this application are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number or order of the indicated technical features. All directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship or movement of the components in a specific orientation (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific orientation changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.
[0067] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.
[0068] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" another element, it can be directly attached to the other element or there may be intervening elements. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element, or there may be one or more intervening elements. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementations.
[0069] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4This application provides an embodiment of an aerosol generating device 100, which includes a first chamber 21 and a second chamber 31, both of which are used to store a liquid matrix. A fluid channel is established between the storage component 2 and the atomizing component 3 to replenish the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 to the second chamber 31. This fluid channel can be closed and can be opened. When the fluid channel is open, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 are in fluid communication, and the first chamber 21 replenishes the liquid matrix in the second chamber 31. When the fluid channel is closed, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 are isolated.
[0070] Based on this, the aerosol generating device 100 also includes a blocking mechanism for closing or opening the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31. The fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 can be changed from closed to open by causing at least a partial phase change, deformation, temperature change, and / or position change of the blocking mechanism.
[0071] It should be noted that deformation includes changes in shape or structural damage. For example, the closure mechanism includes a sealing membrane that can be punctured or torn. When the sealing membrane has an intact structure, it closes the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31. When the sealing membrane is punctured or torn, the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 opens, allowing the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 to flow through the sealing membrane to the second chamber 31.
[0072] In some embodiments, the closure mechanism includes a first seal 61 that is movable relative to the storage component 2 and / or the atomizing component 3, so that the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 is changed from closed to open by changing the position or angle of the first seal 61.
[0073] In some embodiments, the blocking mechanism includes a closable valve, such as a spring-loaded ball valve or a solenoid valve, which opens the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 by changing the valve from a closed state to an open state.
[0074] The aerosol generating device 100 also includes an actuator 1, which has a first state and a second state. When the actuator 1 is in the first state, the blocking mechanism closes the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31, thereby isolating the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 22, and preventing the liquid matrix from flowing between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31. When the actuator 1 is in the second state, the actuator 1 drives the blocking mechanism to open the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31, thereby allowing fluid communication between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31.
[0075] In some embodiments, actuator 1 is configured to be manually operable, thereby changing from a first state to a second state.
[0076] In some embodiments, actuator 1 is configured to transition from a first state to a second state under electrical operation.
[0077] Furthermore, you can refer to Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 100 includes a power supply 4, which may include any suitable battery, such as a lithium battery, a rechargeable battery, or a disposable battery. The power supply 4 is electrically connected to an actuator 1, which is configured to transition from a first state to a second state under the electrical power supplied by the power supply 4.
[0078] More specifically, the actuator 1 includes a first conductive part 111 for electrical connection with one electrode of the power supply 4 and a third conductive part 151 for electrical connection with the other electrode of the power supply 4. When the power supply 4 provides electrical power to the actuator 1, the actuator 1 can change from a first state to a second state.
[0079] In summary, by manipulating actuator 1, actuator 1 can be changed from the first state to the second state, thereby controlling the timing of fluid communication between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31.
[0080] The liquid matrix is liquid at room temperature. The liquid matrix may contain a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances with volatile tobacco aroma components. The liquid matrix may also contain non-tobacco-containing liquids. The liquid matrix may contain water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures, etc. Fragrances may include, but are not limited to, areca nut extract, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit flavoring components. Flavorings may contain ingredients that can provide the user with various aromas or flavors. Vitamin mixtures may be mixtures containing at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E, but are not limited to these.
[0081] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 100 includes a storage component 2 and an atomizing component 3. The storage component 2 includes a first chamber 21, and the atomizing component 3 includes a second chamber 31 and an atomizing core 32 for atomizing a liquid matrix to generate an aerosol.
[0082] The atomizing core 32 is in fluid communication with the second chamber 31, so that the atomizing core 32 can atomize the liquid matrix stored in the second chamber 31. When the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 are in fluid communication, the liquid matrix stored in the first chamber 21 can first flow into the second chamber 31, and then flow from the second chamber 31 into the atomizing core 32.
[0083] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The atomizing core 32 may include a liquid-absorbing element 321 and a heating element 322, with the heating element 322 disposed on the liquid-absorbing element 321. The liquid-absorbing element 321 may be a porous body, used to guide the liquid matrix into the atomization range of the heating element. The heating element 322 is used to heat the atomized liquid matrix, thereby generating an aerosol. The porous body may be a fiber, such as cotton fiber, polypropylene fiber, polyester fiber, or nylon fiber. The porous body may also be porous ceramic or porous metal; this application does not limit the structure and composition of the porous body.
[0084] In other embodiments, the atomizing core 32 may include an ultrasonic element capable of generating ultrasonic waves, which enables the atomizing core 32 to atomize a liquid matrix into an aerosol. Of course, the atomizing core 32 may also include other elements capable of atomizing a liquid matrix into an aerosol.
[0085] The liquid matrix stored in the first chamber 21 may be the same as the liquid matrix stored in the second chamber 31. Alternatively, the liquid matrix stored in the first chamber 21 may be different from the liquid matrix stored in the second chamber 31. Preferably, the capacity of the first chamber 21 is greater than or equal to the capacity of the second chamber 31.
[0086] In some embodiments, the atomizing component 3 further includes a second air guide tube 33, which can guide the aerosol generated by the atomizing liquid matrix by the atomizing core 32 out of the atomizing component 2.
[0087] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 3 At least a portion of the atomizing core 32 is disposed in the second air guide tube 33. In other embodiments, not shown, the atomizing assembly further includes a compartment in which the atomizing core is disposed. The compartment is connected to the second chamber via a liquid channel, allowing the liquid matrix in the second chamber to be transferred to the atomizing core. The compartment is in fluid communication with the second air guide tube, allowing the aerosol formed in the compartment to be discharged through the second air guide tube.
[0088] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 3 The atomizing assembly 3 also includes a liquid storage element 34, which has a large number of pores and is capable of adsorbing a large amount of liquid matrix. The liquid storage element 34 is disposed in the second chamber 31, and at least partially of the liquid matrix stored in the second chamber 31 is retained in the liquid storage element 34, thereby preventing leakage of the liquid matrix from the second chamber 31. The liquid storage element 34 includes, but is not limited to, one of the following materials: cotton fiber, polypropylene fiber, polyester fiber, nylon fiber, porous ceramic material, polymer fiber, or various combinations of the above materials.
[0089] You can refer to Figure 1The aerosol generating device 100 also includes a mouthpiece 22 with an air intake 221. At least a portion of the mouthpiece 22 can be held in the lips by a user, and the air intake 221 is positioned facing the user's mouth when the user holds the mouthpiece 22. The user draws in the aerosol generated by the atomizing component 3 by inhaling through the mouthpiece 22.
[0090] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 4 The storage component 2 includes a suction nozzle 22, or the suction nozzle 22 of the aerosol generating device 100 is disposed on the storage component 2.
[0091] Furthermore, the storage component 2 includes a first housing 23, and a suction nozzle 22 is connected to the first housing 23, or the suction nozzle 22 is integrally formed with the first housing 23.
[0092] Furthermore, the storage assembly 2 also includes a first air guide tube 24 in fluid communication with the air intake 221. At least a portion of the first air guide tube 24 may be disposed within the first housing 23. The first air guide tube 24 may be integrally formed with the first housing 23, or the first air guide tube 24 may be integrally formed with the nozzle 22.
[0093] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 3 The storage component 2 is configured to be connected to the atomizing component 3. When the storage component 2 is connected to the atomizing component 3, the first air guide tube 24 and the second air guide tube 33 are in fluid communication. Furthermore, the first air guide tube 24, the second air guide tube 33, and the air inlet 221 are arranged along the same central axis.
[0094] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 3 The power supply 4 is electrically connected to the atomizing component 3 to provide electrical power for the atomizing core 32 to atomize the liquid matrix.
[0095] The aerosol generating device 100 may further include a third housing 5, an atomizing component 3 and a power supply 4 which may be disposed in the third housing 5. When the first air guide tube 24 is in fluid communication with the second air guide tube 33, the storage component 2 may be connected to the third housing 5. Furthermore, at least a portion of the storage component 2 may be located inside the third housing 5, and the first housing 23 may be connected to the third housing 5.
[0096] In such Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, the atomizing component 3 is disposed between the storage component 2 and the power supply 4.
[0097] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 3 The storage component 2 also includes a base 25. The base 25 is connected to the first housing 23 and seals the first chamber 21 to prevent the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 from leaking between the base 25 and the first housing 23.
[0098] The first air guide tube 24 passes through the first chamber 21, and the end of the first air guide tube 24 away from the air inlet 221 can be sealed to the base 25 to prevent the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 from leaking between the base 25 and the first air guide tube 24.
[0099] Furthermore, the base 25 may include a support member 251 and a flexible member 252. At least a portion of the flexible member 251 is disposed between the support member 251 and the first housing 23 to provide a seal between the support member 251 and the first housing 23. At least a portion of the flexible member 252 may be disposed between the support member 251 and the first air guide 24 to provide a seal between the support member 251 and the first air guide 24.
[0100] In some embodiments, the storage component 2 is provided with a first guide hole 26. When the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 are in fluid communication, the first guide hole 26 can discharge the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21, so that the liquid matrix can flow into the second chamber 31.
[0101] In such Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the support member 251 has a first through hole, and the first guide hole 26 includes the first through hole. The flexible member 253 may have a second through hole, and the first guide hole 26 may also include the second through hole. The first through hole and the second through hole may be arranged along the same central axis. The flexible member 252 may be mainly located on the side of the support member 251 facing the first chamber 21.
[0102] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figures 3-5 The atomizing component 3 is provided with a second guide hole 35. When the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 are in fluid communication, the second guide hole 35 is in fluid communication with the first guide hole 26, so that the second guide hole 35 can introduce at least part of the liquid matrix that is discharged from the first chamber 21 by the first guide hole 26 into the second chamber 31.
[0103] In some embodiments, when actuator 1 transitions from a first state to a second state, at least a portion of actuator 1 undergoes a phase change, deformation, temperature change, and / or position change. Thus, the state of actuator 1 can influence or alter the blocking mechanism, thereby opening or closing the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31.
[0104] Furthermore, when the actuator 1 changes from the first state to the second state, the actuator 1 can cause the blocking mechanism in the aerosol generating device 100 to undergo phase change, deformation, temperature change and / or position change, thereby causing the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 to change from closed to open.
[0105] Alternatively, when the actuator 1 changes from the first state to the second state, the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 changes from closed to open mainly by at least a partial phase change, deformation and / or position change of the actuator 1.
[0106] In some embodiments, actuator 1 is configured to irreversibly transition from a first state to a second state. Thus, when actuator 1 is in the first state, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 can be isolated from each other; after actuator 1 transitions from the first state to the second state, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 can remain in fluid communication during subsequent use of the aerosol generating apparatus 100.
[0107] In such Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 1 includes a base 11, a projectile 12, an elastic element 13, and a connecting wire 14. The elastic element 13 connects the base 11 and the projectile 12. The connecting wire 14 is configured to connect the base 11 and the projectile 12 when the actuator 1 is in a first state, such that the elastic element 13 is compressed, stretched, or twisted between the base 11 and the projectile 12, thereby maintaining its elastically deformed posture and preserving its accumulated elastic potential energy before the connecting wire 14 is disconnected. When the actuator 1 is in a second state, the connecting wire 14 is disconnected, thereby releasing at least a portion of the elastic potential energy accumulated by the elastic element 13, allowing the elastic element 13 to drive the projectile 12 and change its position.
[0108] In some embodiments, the connecting wire 14 can be cut by an electric arc.
[0109] In some embodiments, the base 11 includes a first conductive part 111, the bullet 12 includes a second conductive part 121, and the connecting wire 14 includes a fuse 141. The fuse 141 is electrically connected to the first conductive part 111 and the second conductive part 121, and the fuse 141 can melt itself when the current reaches a threshold or the temperature reaches a threshold.
[0110] The base 11 may also include an insulating substrate 112, and the first conductive part 111 may be retained on the substrate 112 as a metal part or a conductive coating.
[0111] The second conductive portion 121 may be made of metal; furthermore, the projectile 12 may be made of metal. In other embodiments, the projectile 12 may include an insulating substrate and a second conductive portion 121 disposed on the substrate. In this embodiment, the second conductive portion 121 may include a metal component or a conductive coating.
[0112] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 1 and Figure 2The projectile 12, on the side opposite to the base 11, includes an impact portion 122 and a first groove 123 recessed relative to the impact portion 122. One end of the fusible wire 141 extends through the projectile 12 and is welded to the second conductive portion 121 in the first groove 123. The impact portion 122 is used to interfere with the blocking mechanism (e.g., the first seal 61) in the aerosol generating device 100, causing the other component to undergo a phase change, deformation, and / or positional change. The first groove 123 has a receiving space capable of accommodating the end of the fusible wire 141, preventing the end of the fusible wire 141 from extending beyond the impact portion 122, thereby preventing interference between the end of the fusible wire 141 and other components when the impact portion 122 interferes with each other. This receiving space can also accommodate solder 16, preventing the solder 16 from overflowing into the impact portion 122 and increasing the welding stability and strength between the end of the fusible wire 141 and the projectile 12. Furthermore, the first groove 123 is located on the side of the projectile 12 away from the base 11, that is, on the outer side of the projectile 12, which facilitates welding.
[0113] In such Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the first conductive part 111 has a second groove 1111 on the side opposite to the projectile 12. The other end of the fuse 141 extends out of the base 11 and is welded to the first conductive part 111 in the second groove 1111. The second groove 1111 has a receiving space that can accommodate the end of the fuse 141. This receiving space can also accommodate solder 16, which can prevent the solder 16 from overflowing and increase the welding stability and firmness between the end of the fuse 141 and the first conductive part 111. Moreover, the second groove 1111 is located on the side of the base 11 opposite to the projectile 12, that is, on the outer side of the base 11, thereby facilitating welding.
[0114] In such Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 1 further includes a second housing 15, with at least a portion of the fuse 141 and at least a portion of the elastic member 13 disposed inside the second housing 15. The second housing 15 protects the fuse 141 from disconnection during the engagement of the actuator 1 with the atomizing assembly 3 or the storage assembly 2.
[0115] The base 11 is connected to the second housing 15, and the projectile 12 is movably or removably connected to the second housing 15. The second housing 15 may be generally tubular with open ends facing away from each other. The base 11 may be disposed in one open end of the second housing 15, and the projectile 12 may be disposed in the other open end of the second housing 15, or a portion of the projectile 12 may protrude from the other open end of the second housing 15.
[0116] When assembling the actuator 1, the first end of the fuse 141 can be connected to the first conductive part 111 on the base 11 (including but not limited to welding to achieve electrical connection between the first conductive part 111 and the fuse 141); then the second end of the fuse 141 can be passed through the elastic member 13, the projectile 12 and the second housing 15 in sequence; then the base 11 can be fixed on the second housing 15; next, the projectile 12 is brought into contact with the projectile 12 so that the projectile 12 is in a preset position, and then the fuse 14 inside the second housing 15 is straightened through the second end of the fuse 141. Then the fuse 141 and the projectile 12 are welded in the first groove 123, and finally the excess fuse 141 is cut off.
[0117] Alternatively, when assembling the actuator 1, the first end of the fuse 141 can be connected to the first conductive part 111 on the base 11; then the second end of the fuse 141 can be passed through the elastic member 13 and the projectile 12 in sequence; the projectile 12 can be brought into position by abutting against it; then the fuse 141 between the projectile 12 and the base 11 can be straightened by the second end of the fuse 141; then the fuse 141 and the projectile 12 can be welded in the first groove 123; and the excess fuse 141 can be cut off; then the second housing 15 can be assembled such that at least a portion of the fuse 141, at least a portion of the elastic member 13, and at least a portion of the projectile 12 are located in the second housing 15; finally, the base 11 can be fixed on the second housing 15.
[0118] The elastic element 13 may include a silicone product or a spring.
[0119] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a first electrode (not shown) and a second electrode (not shown), which are electrically connected to two different electrodes of the power supply 4, respectively. The second housing 15 includes a third conductive portion 151. The first conductive portion 111 is electrically connected to the first electrode, and the second conductive portion 121 is electrically connected to the second electrode via the third conductive portion 151.
[0120] In some embodiments, when the actuator 1 is in the first state, a portion of the third conductive part 151 is electrically connected to the second conductive part 121. This portion is an electrical connection part 1511 for electrical connection with the second electrode. The electrical connection part 1511 and the first conductive part 111 are disposed adjacent to the same end of the actuator 1. Thus, the first electrode and the second electrode can be electrically connected to the first conductive part 111 and the third conductive part 151 respectively at the same height of the actuator 1, which is beneficial for simplifying and reducing the wiring layout in the aerosol generating device 100.
[0121] In some embodiments, the second housing 15 may include an insulating housing and a metal component or conductive coating disposed on the insulating housing, wherein the metal component or conductive coating on the second housing 15 includes a third conductive portion 151. In some embodiments, the third conductive portion 151 is made of metal, and further, the second housing 15 is made of the third conductive portion.
[0122] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The base 11 includes a support surface 113, which supports the projectile 12 by supporting the elastic member 13. The support surface 113 is inclined so that at least a portion of the projectile 12 is inclined relative to the second housing 15 when the actuator 1 is in the first state, so that the second conductive part 121 and the third conductive part 151 are electrically connected.
[0123] In such Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, when the actuator 1 is in the first state, at least a portion of the projectile 12 is located within the second housing 15. When the actuator 1 transitions from the first state to the second state, the projectile 12 moves axially away from the base 11 along the second housing 15. The portion of the projectile 12 within the second housing 15 can be clearance-fitted with the inner wall of the second housing 15 to facilitate the assembly of at least a portion of the projectile 12 into the second housing 15 and to facilitate the movement of the projectile 12 relative to the second housing 15 when the actuator 1 transitions from the first state to the second state. Therefore, by providing an inclined support surface 113 on the base 11 and tilting the projectile 12 relative to the second housing 15, a stable electrical connection between the second conductive portion 121 and the third conductive portion 151 can be ensured while the portion of the projectile 12 within the second housing 15 is clearance-fitted with the inner wall of the second housing 15.
[0124] In some embodiments, the warhead 12 is configured to be unable to detach from the second housing 15 at the end opposite to the base 11.
[0125] Furthermore, when the actuator 1 changes from the first state to the second state, the distance between the projectile 12 and the base 11 increases, and when the actuator 1 is in the second state, the projectile 12 is still connected to the second housing 15, or a portion of the projectile 12 continues to remain in the second housing 15.
[0126] Furthermore, one can refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2A first stop 152 is provided at one end of the second housing 15 opposite to the base 11, and a second stop 124 is provided at the end of the projectile 12 facing the base 11. When the actuator 1 is in the first state, the second stop 124 is located inside the second housing 15, and the first stop 152 and the second stop 124 are spaced apart. When the actuator 1 is in the second state, the second stop 124 is still located inside the second housing 15, and the first stop 152 abuts against the second stop 124 axially in the second housing 15, thereby preventing the second stop 124 from being removed from the second housing 15.
[0127] When the projectile 12 is tilted relative to the second housing 15, the projectile 12 may abut against the first stop portion 152, and / or the second stop portion 124 may abut against the inner wall of the second housing 15.
[0128] In some embodiments, actuator 1 has a small volume. Specifically, actuator 1 is generally cylindrical, with an outer diameter D of less than 5 mm, and / or a length L of less than 10 mm in the first state. Actuator 1, including fuse 141, has a smaller volume compared to actuators with electromagnetic properties.
[0129] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 8 The aerosol generating device 100 also includes a controller 7, which can control the electrical power output of the power supply 4. For example, the controller 7 can control the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the atomizing core 32, so that the atomizing core 32 atomizes the liquid matrix to generate aerosol. For example, the controller 7 can control the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1, so that the actuator 1 changes from a first state to a second state.
[0130] In some embodiments, the third housing 5 is at least partially transparent, allowing the second chamber 31 to be visually observed. The aerosol generating device 100 also includes an interactive element (not shown) that can be operated by a user to issue commands to the controller 7. The controller 7 can then control the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1 according to the commands. Specifically, the user can observe the remaining amount of liquid matrix in the second chamber 31. When the liquid matrix in the second chamber 31 is below a warning line, the user can operate the interactive element to change the actuator 7 from a first state to a second state, causing the first chamber 21 to provide liquid matrix to the second chamber 31.
[0131] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 8 The aerosol generating device 100 also includes a sensor 8 for sensing the consumption or remaining amount of liquid matrix in the second chamber 31. The controller 7 is electrically connected to the sensor 8 and the power supply 4 to control the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1 through the sensing signal generated by the sensor 8.
[0132] For example, when the amount of liquid matrix consumed or remaining in the second chamber 31 reaches a threshold after one or more aspirations, the sensor 8 sends a sensing signal, or when the information of the sensing signal is associated with the amount of liquid matrix consumed or remaining in the second chamber 31 reaching the threshold, the controller 7 can automatically control the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1 according to the sensing signal.
[0133] In some embodiments, sensor 8 includes an airflow sensor configured to sense suction action based on changes in airflow generated during suction.
[0134] When suction is applied to the inlet 221, the airflow in the first air guide tube 24, the second air guide tube 33, and the air intake channel for guiding outside air into the second air guide tube 33 will all change. The airflow sensor can be in fluid communication with at least one of the first air guide tube 24, the second air guide tube 33, the air intake channel, and the inlet 221, so that when the airflow speed, airflow direction, and / or air pressure in any one of the first air guide tube 24, the second air guide tube 33, the air intake channel, and the inlet 221 changes, the airflow sensor can sense it and determine whether a suction action has occurred.
[0135] When there is a suction action, the airflow sensor generates a suction signal, and the controller 7 can control the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the atomizing core 32 based on this suction signal. After a single suction is completed or when there is no suction action, there is no suction signal, and the controller 7 can control the power supply 4 to stop providing electrical power to the atomizing core 32. When there is a suction action, the atomizing core 32 atomizes the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol, thereby reducing the consumption of the liquid matrix in the second chamber 31.
[0136] In some embodiments, the sensing signal includes a suction signal, so that the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1 when the user suctions for the first time, causing the actuator 1 to transition from a first state to a second state. In other words, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 remain isolated from each other before the first suction. If the actuator 1 is a disposable actuator capable of irreversibly transitioning from the first state to the second state, then the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 remain in fluid communication during and after the first suction.
[0137] In some embodiments, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor is configured to perform addition operations based on the suction signal. Each time a suction signal is detected, an addition operation is performed, and when the value obtained after multiple addition operations reaches a threshold, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1. The sensing signal includes the value after each addition operation.
[0138] Furthermore, the sensing signals include the cumulative number of suctions or the cumulative suction duration. The controller 7 or the airflow sensor is configured to accumulate the number of suctions and / or the duration of each suction action based on the suction signals. A higher cumulative number of suctions and / or a longer cumulative suction duration indicates greater consumption of the liquid matrix in the second chamber 31. The controller 7 is configured to control the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1 when the cumulative number of suctions or the cumulative suction duration reaches a threshold.
[0139] For example, each time a suction signal is detected, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor performs a "+1" operation. When the value obtained after multiple "+1" operations reaches the threshold, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1.
[0140] Furthermore, when the value obtained after multiple "+1" operations reaches the threshold, it means that the cumulative number of suctions has also reached the threshold. For example, when the cumulative number of suctions reaches 100, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1.
[0141] For example, when a suction signal is detected, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor counts the duration of the suction. Each time a suction signal is detected, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor counts the duration of the suction and adds the duration of the suction to the previous cumulative duration. When the cumulative suction duration reaches a threshold, for example, when the cumulative suction duration reaches 10 hours, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide power to the actuator 1.
[0142] The duration of each inhalation is positively correlated with the operating time of the atomizer coil 32 during each inhalation. The operating time of the atomizer coil 32 includes the time during which the power source 4 provides electrical power to the atomizer coil 32.
[0143] Preferably, the second chamber 31 still contains a liquid matrix when the cumulative number of puffs or the cumulative puff duration reaches a threshold. For example, when the cumulative number of puffs or the cumulative puff duration reaches the threshold, only 2 / 3 of the liquid matrix in the second chamber 31 is consumed. This prevents the atomizing core 32 from dry-burning due to insufficient liquid matrix in the second chamber 31 when the atomizing core 32 atomizes the liquid matrix by heating.
[0144] In some embodiments, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor is configured to perform subtraction operations based on the suction signal. Each time a suction signal is detected, a subtraction operation is performed, and when the value obtained after multiple subtraction operations reaches a threshold, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1. The sensing signal includes the value after each subtraction operation.
[0145] Furthermore, the sensing signal includes the remaining number of suctions or the remaining suction duration. The controller 7 or the airflow sensor is configured to cumulatively reduce the preset total number of suctions and / or the preset total suction duration of the atomizing component 3. The more remaining suctions and / or the longer the remaining suction duration of the atomizing component 3, the more liquid matrix remains in the second chamber 31. The controller 7 is configured to control the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1 when the remaining value of the preset total number of suctions or the preset total suction duration of the atomizing component 3 drops to a threshold.
[0146] For example, each time a suction signal is detected, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor performs a "-1" operation. After multiple "-1" operations, when the value obtained reaches the threshold, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1.
[0147] Furthermore, based on the preset total number of suctions for the atomizing component 3, each time a suction signal is detected, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor performs a "-1" operation. When the value obtained after multiple "-1" operations reaches a threshold, it indicates that the remaining value of the total number of suctions has reached the threshold. For example, if the amount of liquid matrix initially stored in the second chamber 31 results in a preset total number of suctions of 100 for the atomizing component 3, when the remaining number of suctions drops to 10, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1.
[0148] For example, when a suction signal is detected, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor counts the duration of the suction. Each time a suction signal is detected, the controller 7 or the airflow sensor counts the duration of the suction and also performs a calculation by subtracting the duration of the suction from the total suction time preset by the atomizing component 3. When the remaining value of the total suction time reaches a threshold, for example, when the initial liquid base mass stored in the second chamber 31 makes the total suction time preset by the atomizing component 3 10h, and when the remaining suction time drops to 1h, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1.
[0149] Preferably, when the remaining value of the preset total number of puffs or the total puffing time of the atomizing component 3 drops to a threshold, more than two puffs have already occurred. For example, when the remaining value of the total number of puffs or the total puffing time drops to the threshold, at least half of the liquid matrix in the second chamber 31 has been consumed. This allows the initially stored liquid matrix in the second chamber 31 to be consumed relatively quickly, preventing the initially stored liquid matrix in the second chamber 31 from deteriorating.
[0150] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 3 and Figure 4The blocking mechanism includes a first seal 61, which is linked to the warhead 12 of the actuator 1. When the actuator 1 is in a first state, the first seal 61 blocks the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31. When the actuator 1 is in a second state, the warhead 12 of the actuator 1 is configured to change position, thereby causing the first seal 61 to change position and opening the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31.
[0151] Furthermore, you can refer to Figure 3 When the actuator 1 is in the first state, the first seal 61 is located between the first guide hole 26 and the second guide hole 35, and seals the first guide hole 26 and / or the second guide hole 35, thereby blocking the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31, so that the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 are isolated from each other.
[0152] In such Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, when the actuator 1 is in the first state, the first seal 61 is disposed close to the base 25 and located at the port of the first guide hole 26, so that the first seal 61 seals and blocks the first guide hole 26, preventing the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 from flowing out through the first guide hole 26.
[0153] When the actuator 1 is in the first state, the warhead 12 of the actuator 1 can contact the first seal 61, thereby shortening the travel distance of the warhead 12 relative to the base 11 when the actuator 1 is switched to the second state, which is beneficial to reducing the volume of the aerosol generating device 100.
[0154] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 4 The aerosol generating device 100 also includes a second seal 62, which provides a seal between the storage component 2 and the atomizing component 3 to prevent leakage of the liquid matrix when the first guide hole 26 and the second guide hole 35 are in fluid communication.
[0155] Specifically, the second seal 62 can be disposed between the base 25 and the atomizing assembly 3, and provide an annular seal between the base 25 and the atomizing assembly 3 corresponding to the first guide hole 26 and / or the second guide hole 35.
[0156] Furthermore, the second seal 62 is disposed around the first seal 61. When the actuator 1 is in the second state, the first seal 61 is spaced apart from both the first guide hole 26 and the second guide hole 35, and a third guide hole 64 is provided between the first seal 61 and the second seal 62 to fluidly communicate with the first guide hole 26 and the second guide hole 35. Thus, when the actuator 1 is in the second state, the liquid matrix in the first guide hole 26 first flows into the third guide hole 64, then into the second guide hole 35, and finally into the second chamber 31.
[0157] Furthermore, one can refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 A plurality of connecting ribs 63 are provided between the first sealing member 61 and the second sealing member 62. The connecting ribs 63 connect the first sealing member 61 and the second sealing member 62, and there is a third guide hole 64 between two adjacent connecting ribs 63, thus having a plurality of third guide holes 64. The plurality of third guide holes 64 are arranged around the first sealing member 61 at intervals.
[0158] When actuator 1 is in the first state, connecting rib 63 can be in a roughly natural state. When actuator 1 is in the second state, connecting rib 63 deforms and is elongated, which increases the flow area of the third guide hole 64, while the first seal 61 is displaced.
[0159] When the actuator 1 is in the first state, the surface of the first seal 61 facing the base 25 and the surface of the second seal 62 facing the base can be on the same plane.
[0160] When the actuator 1 is in the second state, the distance between the surface of the first seal 61 facing the base 25 and the base 25 increases, causing the surface of the first seal 61 facing the base 25 to sink relative to the surface of the second seal 63 facing the base 25.
[0161] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figures 3-5 The atomizing assembly 3 also includes a supporting portion 36 corresponding to the first seal 61. When the actuator 1 is in the first state, the supporting portion 36 is spaced apart from the first seal 61, allowing the first seal 61 space to move towards the supporting portion 36. When the actuator 1 is in the second state, the supporting portion 36 supports the first seal 61 to prevent the first seal 61 from sinking excessively and causing it to block the second guide hole 35.
[0162] The first sealing element 61, the connecting rib 63, and the second sealing element 62 can be integrally molded. The first sealing element 61, the connecting rib 63, and / or the second sealing element 62 can be made of silicone.
[0163] In some embodiments, there are at least two first guide holes 26 and at least two second guide holes 35, and the plurality of first guide holes 26 are provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of second guide holes 35.
[0164] As an example, the number of actuators 1 is one less than the number of either the first guide hole 26 or the second guide hole 35, so that when all actuators 1 are in the first state, the fluid passage between one of the first guide holes 26 and the corresponding second guide hole 35 remains open. When only one of the first guide holes 26 and the corresponding second guide hole 35 is open, the pressure difference between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 can prevent the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 from flowing into the second chamber 31.
[0165] When at least one actuator 1 changes from the first state to the second state, the fluid passage between at least two first guide holes 26 and the second guide holes 35 that are respectively provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the at least two first guide holes 26 is opened, thereby enabling the air pressure between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 to be dynamically balanced, and the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 can thus flow to the second chamber 31.
[0166] Alternatively, as an example, the number of actuators 1 is the same as the number of first guide holes 26 or second guide holes 35, and multiple actuators 1 are set in a one-to-one correspondence with multiple first guide holes 26 or second guide holes 35.
[0167] At least two actuators 1 are configured to simultaneously transition from a first state to a second state, thereby enabling the fluid passage between at least two first guide holes 26 and second guide holes 35 that are correspondingly arranged one-to-one with the at least two first guide holes 26 to be opened simultaneously.
[0168] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 includes a controller 7 and a sensor 8 for sensing the consumption or remaining amount of liquid matrix in the second chamber 31. The actuator 1 is a disposable actuator capable of irreversibly transitioning from a first state to a second state. After obtaining a sensing signal that meets preset conditions, the controller 7 controls the power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the actuator 1, causing the actuator 1 to irreversibly transition from the first state to the second state. Consequently, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 are irreversibly transitioned from being isolated from each other to maintaining fluid communication.
[0169] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 includes a controller 7 and a sensor 8 for sensing the consumption or remaining amount of liquid matrix in the second chamber 31, and the actuator 1 is a reusable actuator 1' capable of reversibly switching between a first state and a second state. Before a sensing signal satisfying preset conditions is obtained, such as before the number of aspirations or the cumulative aspiration duration reaches a threshold, the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31 remain isolated from each other; after obtaining the sensing signal satisfying the preset conditions, the actuator 1 is configured to repeatedly switch between the first state and the second state.
[0170] For example, after obtaining a sensing signal that meets preset conditions, the controller 7 can respond to a suction signal or suction action by promptly controlling or delaying the control power supply 4 to provide electrical power to the reusable actuator 1', causing the reusable actuator 1' to switch to the second state and enabling fluid communication between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31. The controller 7 can also promptly control or delay the control power supply 4 to stop providing electrical power to the actuator 1 when the airflow sensor does not sense a suction action or does not generate a suction signal, causing the reusable actuator 1' to switch to the first state and isolating the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31.
[0171] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 further includes a first seal 61 linked to a reusable actuator 1', the reusable actuator 1' being configured to provide a force in a second state to drive the first seal 61 to change position, thereby opening a fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31, and to provide a force in a first state to return the first seal 61 to a position that maintains the blockage of the fluid passage between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31.
[0172] Furthermore, you can refer to Figures 9-11 The reusable actuator 1' includes a telescopic member 17, which comprises a two-way shape memory alloy component. The telescopic member 17 is heat-deformable after being energized and heated. The telescopic member 17 has a first memory shape in a first state and a second memory shape in a second state. After being de-energized and cooled, the telescopic member 17 deforms into the first memory shape, and after being energized and heated, it deforms into the second memory shape.
[0173] In some embodiments, the telescopic member 17 also has a changing intermediate shape between the first memory shape and the second memory shape. When in the intermediate shape, the telescopic member 17 maintains fluid communication between the first chamber 21 and the second chamber 31.
[0174] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 11 The telescopic member 17 includes an inner spiral structure 171 and an outer spiral structure 172 located at least partially around the inner spiral structure 171, which helps to improve the stability of the force exerted by the telescopic member 17 on the first seal 61, and can also prevent twisting and tilting during the process of the telescopic member 17 driving the first seal 61 to change position, which is beneficial to ensuring the consistency of the driving trajectory of the telescopic member 17.
[0175] Furthermore, the inner spiral structure 171 and the outer spiral structure 172 are wound from the same shape memory alloy piece, which not only makes the structure of the telescopic member 17 more compact and helps to reduce the volume of the reusable actuator 1', but also helps to connect the inner spiral structure 171 and the outer spiral structure 172 in series with the power supply 4.
[0176] Furthermore, two pins 173 are formed at the two ends of the shape memory alloy parts that wind the inner helical structure 171 and the outer helical structure 172, respectively. These two pins 173 are used to electrically connect to different electrodes of the power supply 4. The two pins 173 are arranged adjacent to the same end of the actuator 1, which is beneficial for simplifying and reducing the wiring structure in the aerosol generating device 100.
[0177] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 3 The actuator 1 is held on the storage component 2, thereby forming an integral unit with the storage component 2, which is connected to the atomizing component 3.
[0178] Preferably, the entire assembly including the actuator 1 and the storage component 2 is detachably connected to the atomizing component 3, so that the entire assembly including the actuator 1 and the storage component 2 can be replaced when the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 is exhausted.
[0179] In some embodiments, the storage component 2 further includes a first electrode and a second electrode, and the actuator 1 is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode; the atomizing component 3 further includes a third electrode and a fourth electrode, and the power supply is electrically connected to the third electrode and the fourth electrode.
[0180] When the entire assembly including actuator 1 and storage component 2 is connected to atomizing component 3, the first electrode abuts against the third electrode and the second electrode abuts against the fourth electrode, thereby electrically connecting actuator 1 to power supply 4.
[0181] Furthermore, actuator 1, the first electrode, and the second electrode are all held on base 25.
[0182] It should be noted that the aerosol generating device 100 includes a first electrode and a second electrode, which are optional rather than mandatory. In other embodiments, the first conductive part 111 can be directly electrically connected to the third electrode, and the electrical connection part 1511 can be directly electrically connected to the fourth electrode.
[0183] Preferably, the disposable actuator is held on the storage component 2.
[0184] In some embodiments, reference may be made to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The actuator 1 is held on the atomizing component 3, thereby forming a whole with the atomizing component 3, which is connected to the storage component 2.
[0185] Preferably, the entire assembly including the actuator 1 and the atomizing component 3 is detachably connected to the storage component 2, so that the storage component 2 can be replaced when the liquid matrix in the first chamber 21 is exhausted.
[0186] Preferably, the reusable actuator 1' is held on the atomizing assembly 3. The two pins 172 of the reusable actuator 1' can be directly electrically connected to the power supply 4, or they can be electrically connected to the power supply 4 in other ways.
[0187] It should be noted that the preferred embodiments of this application are given in the specification and accompanying drawings, but are not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.
Claims
1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: A storage assembly, including a first chamber for storing a liquid matrix; An atomizing assembly includes a second chamber for storing a liquid matrix and an atomizing core for atomizing the liquid matrix stored in the second chamber to generate an aerosol; a fluid channel is established between the storage assembly and the atomizing assembly to replenish the liquid matrix in the first chamber to the second chamber; A blocking mechanism for closing or opening the fluid passage; An actuator is configured to transition from a first state to a second state under electrical operation, wherein when the actuator is in the first state, the blocking mechanism closes the fluid passage, and when the actuator is in the second state, it drives the blocking mechanism to open the fluid passage. and The power supply is electrically connected to the atomizing assembly to provide electrical power to the atomizing core, and electrically connected to the actuator to provide electrical power to the actuator so that the actuator irreversibly transitions from the first state to the second state.
2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a controller and a sensor for sensing the consumption or remaining amount of liquid matrix in the second chamber. The controller is electrically connected to the sensor and the power supply to control the power supply to provide electrical power to the actuator through the sensing signal generated by the sensor.
3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sensor includes an airflow sensor, which is configured to sense the suction action based on changes in airflow generated during suction. The controller is configured to control the power supply to provide electrical power to the atomizing core when the airflow sensor senses a suction action.
4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sensing signal includes the cumulative number of inhalations or the cumulative inhalation duration. The controller is configured to control the power supply to provide electrical power to the actuator when the cumulative number of inhalations or the cumulative inhalation duration reaches a threshold, or when the remaining value of the preset total number of inhalations or the total inhalation duration of the atomizing component drops to the threshold.
5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actuator is held on the storage component, thereby forming an integral unit with the storage component, which is connected to the atomizing component.
6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The storage component further includes a first electrode and a second electrode, and the actuator is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode; The atomizing component further includes a third electrode and a fourth electrode, and the power supply is electrically connected to the third electrode and the fourth electrode; When the whole assembly is connected to the atomizing component, the first electrode abuts against the third electrode, and the second electrode abuts against the fourth electrode.
7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The storage assembly includes a first housing and a base, the first chamber being located inside the first housing, and the base being connected to the first housing and sealing the first chamber; The actuator, the first electrode, and the second electrode are all held on the base.
8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The blocking mechanism includes a first seal that blocks the fluid passage when the actuator is in a first state. The actuator includes a projectile that is linked to the first seal. The projectile is configured to change position when the actuator is in the second state, thereby causing the first seal to change position and opening the fluid channel.
9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The storage component is provided with a first flow guide hole that is fluidly connected to the first chamber, and the atomizing component is provided with a second flow guide hole that is fluidly connected to the second chamber; When the actuator is in the first state, the first seal is located between the first guide hole and the second guide hole, and seals the first guide hole and / or the second guide hole.
10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The aerosol generating device further includes a second seal that provides a seal between the storage component and the atomizing component to prevent leakage of the liquid matrix when the first flow orifice and the second flow orifice are in fluid communication. The second seal is disposed around the first seal, and the first seal, when the actuator is in the second state, has a gap between itself and both the first and second guide holes, and has a third guide hole that fluidly communicates with the second seal, connecting the first and second guide holes.
11. The actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actuator includes a base, a projectile, an elastic element, and a fuse. The base includes a first conductive part, the projectile includes a second conductive part, and the elastic element connects the base and the projectile. The fuse is configured to connect the first conductive part and the second conductive part when the actuator is in the first state, so that the elastic element maintains elastic deformation, and disconnects when the actuator is in the second state, thereby driving the position of the warhead to change.
12. The actuator according to claim 11, characterized in that, The side of the projectile away from the base includes an impact portion and a first groove recessed relative to the impact portion. One end of the fuse wire extends out of the projectile and is welded to the second conductive portion in the first groove.
13. The actuator according to claim 11, characterized in that, The actuator further includes a second housing, wherein at least a portion of the fuse and at least a portion of the elastic element are disposed inside the second housing; The first conductive part is used for electrical connection with the first electrode, and the second housing includes a third conductive part. When the actuator is in the first state, a portion of the third conductive part is electrically connected to the second conductive part, and the portion is an electrical connection part for electrical connection with the second electrode. The electrical connection part and the first conductive part are disposed adjacent to the same end of the actuator.
14. The actuator according to claim 13, characterized in that, The base includes a support surface that supports the projectile by supporting the elastic element, and the support surface is inclined such that at least a portion of the projectile is inclined relative to the second housing when the actuator is in the first state, so that the second conductive part and the third conductive part remain electrically connected.
15. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: power supply; A storage assembly, including a first chamber for storing a liquid matrix; An atomizing assembly includes a second chamber for storing a liquid matrix and an atomizing core for atomizing the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol, wherein a fluid channel is established between the storage assembly and the atomizing assembly to replenish the liquid matrix in the first chamber to the second chamber. A blocking mechanism for closing or opening the fluid passage; An actuator is configured to have an electrically operable switchable first state and a second state, wherein when the actuator is in the first state, the blocking mechanism closes the fluid passage, and when the actuator is in the second state, the blocking mechanism is driven to open the fluid passage. An airflow sensor detects the user's suction action; and The controller is configured to record the cumulative number of puffs or the cumulative puff duration. When the cumulative number of puffs or the cumulative puff duration reaches a threshold, or when the remaining value of the preset total number of puffs or the total puff duration of the atomizing component drops to the threshold, the controller controls the power supply to provide electrical power to the actuator, so that the actuator changes from the first state to the second state.
16. An actuator, characterized in that, The actuator should be present in an aerosol generating device having a first chamber and a second chamber, both of which are used to store a liquid matrix and a fluid channel for transferring the liquid matrix is established between them. The actuator includes a base, a first conductive part and a third conductive part for electrical connection to a power source, and a fuse electrically connected between the first conductive part and the third conductive part, wherein the first conductive part and the third conductive part are disposed adjacent to the same end of the actuator; The actuator has an electrically operable switchable first state and a second state, and the actuator is configured to irreversibly transition from the first state to the second state when energized, and to open the fluid passage when transitioning to the second state.