Oil leakage detection device, electronic cigarette and oil leakage detection method

Abstract

The present invention discloses an oil leakage detection device, an electronic cigarette, and an oil leakage detection method, wherein the device is used for an electronic cigarette, the device comprises a detection unit and a control unit, the first end of the detection unit is electrically connected to a power supply via a voltage divider resistor, and the other end is grounded, and the control unit is electrically connected to the first end of the detection unit; wherein, in the case of oil leakage in the electronic cigarette, the target voltage of the first end of the detection unit changes due to the dripping of the oil, and the control unit determines whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage change. The technical solution provided by the present invention can solve the technical problem in the prior art that disposable electronic cigarettes are difficult to detect oil leakage in time, and can issue a reminder in time after the electronic cigarette leaks oil, avoiding safety problems during transportation or when consumers use it.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of electronic cigarettes, and in particular to an oil leakage detection device, an electronic cigarette and an oil leakage detection method. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, as people's health awareness has increased, e-cigarettes have become a new favorite because they do not contain harmful ingredients such as tar and suspended particles. In addition to being harmless to health, e-cigarette oil can be flavored with flavoring agents of different ingredients. Users can choose the flavor of the oil according to their preferences. Smoking e-cigarettes is gradually becoming a trend.

[0003] Among electronic cigarette products, disposable electronic cigarettes have gradually attracted the attention of consumers due to their advantages such as ease of carrying, no need to charge, and no need to replace cartridges. Smokers only need to carry disposable electronic cigarettes when going out, and do not need to carry chargers and other accessories. Disposable electronic cigarettes have advantages that cannot be replaced by traditional rechargeable electronic cigarettes.

[0004] However, unlike the detachable design of traditional rechargeable electronic cigarettes, disposable electronic cigarettes are closed and do not have the function of replacing the cartridges. Therefore, when the electronic cigarette has oil leakage, it is difficult to detect the leakage in time. After the disposable electronic cigarette is assembled, there is a certain probability of oil leakage. The existing technology cannot detect the oil leakage after the disposable electronic cigarette is packaged. There may be safety hazards during transportation or during consumer use, such as the electronic cigarette starting up automatically. Therefore, a leakage detection method is needed to detect the leakage and issue a reminder in time to avoid safety problems. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention provides an oil leakage detection device, an electronic cigarette and an oil leakage detection method, aiming to effectively solve the technical problem in the prior art that it is difficult to detect oil leakage in a disposable electronic cigarette in a timely manner. The technical solution of the present invention can issue a prompt reminder after oil leakage occurs in the electronic cigarette, avoiding safety problems during transportation or when consumers use it.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides an oil leakage detection device for an electronic cigarette, the device comprising:

[0007] A detection unit and a control unit, wherein a first end of the detection unit is electrically connected to a power supply via a voltage-dividing resistor and the other end is grounded, and the control unit is electrically connected to the first end of the detection unit;

[0008] Wherein, in the case that the electronic cigarette leaks oil, the target voltage of the first end of the detection unit produces a voltage change due to the oil coverage, and the control unit determines whether the electronic cigarette is in a state of oil leakage based on the voltage change.

[0009] Furthermore, the device comprises a circuit board having a first surface facing the flue and a second surface facing the airway, and the detection part comprises a conductive circuit laid on the first surface.

[0010] Furthermore, the conductive circuit includes a first circuit and a second circuit, the first circuit and the second circuit are laid on the first surface in a first preset shape and are staggered with each other, the first preset shape is a forked finger shape or a double vortex shape, and there is a preset minimum spacing between any position of the first circuit and any position of the second circuit, wherein, when the electronic cigarette does not leak oil, the first circuit and the second circuit remain insulated, and when the electronic cigarette leaks oil, an electrical connection appears between the first circuit and the second circuit, and the resistance value of the detection part becomes smaller.

[0011] Optionally, the first circuit is provided with a first via hole passing through the circuit board, and the first via hole is used to electrically connect the first wire to the voltage divider resistor on the second surface; the second circuit is provided with a second via hole passing through the circuit board, and the second via hole is used to ground the second wire on the second surface.

[0012] Optionally, the detection unit is a humidity-sensitive resistor or a humidity-sensitive capacitor.

[0013] Furthermore, the conductive circuit is laid on the first surface in a second preset shape, and the second preset shape is a bend shape or a single spiral shape.

[0014] Furthermore, the device includes an indicator light, which is electrically connected to the control unit. When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state, the indicator light flashes in a preset manner under the control of the control unit.

[0015] Optionally, the control unit includes a microprocessor and an analog-to-digital converter, the analog-to-digital converter samples the target voltage according to a clock signal sent by a clock unit, and when the target voltage is greater than a preset voltage threshold, the microprocessor determines that the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state.

[0016] Optionally, the control unit includes a microprocessor and a comparator, the comparator is electrically connected between the microprocessor and the first end of the detection unit, the comparator outputs a voltage comparison result based on the target voltage, and the microprocessor determines whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage comparison result.

[0017] Furthermore, the device comprises an atomizer core driving unit, which is electrically connected to the control unit and is used to heat the atomizer core of the electronic cigarette.

[0018] Furthermore, the device also includes a smoking sensor unit, which is electrically connected to the control unit and is used to receive the pressure applied to the pressure detection component of the electronic cigarette and convert the pressure into an electrical signal and transmit it to the control unit.

[0019] Furthermore, the control unit receives the electrical signal, and determines whether the electronic cigarette is in use based on the electrical signal. When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state and the use state at the same time, the control unit locks the atomizer core drive unit so that the atomizer core drive unit no longer heats the atomizer core.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention further provides an electronic cigarette, comprising a cigarette rod and a cigarette cartridge loaded with cigarette oil, and also comprising any one of the above-mentioned oil leakage detection devices.

[0021] According to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention also provides an oil leakage detection method for an electronic cigarette having a detection unit, wherein a first end of the detection unit is electrically connected to a power supply through a voltage divider resistor, and the other end is grounded, the method comprising:

[0022] detecting a voltage change of a target voltage at the first end of the detection unit caused by covering of the e-liquid;

[0023] Whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state is determined based on the voltage change.

[0024] Furthermore, the method further comprises:

[0025] When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state, the indicator light of the electronic cigarette is controlled to flash in a preset manner.

[0026] Further, judging whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage change includes:

[0027] The target voltage is sampled according to the clock signal, and when the target voltage is greater than a preset voltage threshold, it is determined that the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state.

[0028] Further, judging whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage change includes:

[0029] The target voltage is compared by a comparator to output a voltage comparison result, and whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state is determined based on the voltage comparison result.

[0030] Furthermore, the method further comprises:

[0031] The pressure applied to the pressure detection component of the electronic cigarette is received, and whether the electronic cigarette is in use is determined based on the pressure. When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state and the use state at the same time, the atomization core of the electronic cigarette is not heated.

[0032] Through one or more of the above embodiments of the present invention, at least the following technical effects can be achieved:

[0033] In the technical solution disclosed in the present invention, a detection unit and a voltage-dividing resistor are provided in the oil leakage detection device, and the control unit determines whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state according to the voltage change of the target voltage at the first end of the detection unit, and activates the indicator light and locks the atomizer core drive unit for heating the oil based on the oil leakage state. This solution can detect the oil leakage of the electronic cigarette in time and issue a reminder, prevent the electronic cigarette from self-starting or circuit corrosion, and avoid safety hazards during the transportation, storage and use of the electronic cigarette.

[0034] The detection unit of the present invention is arranged on the circuit board of the electronic cigarette and faces the flue, and can detect oil leakage in time, thereby improving the accuracy and timeliness of oil leakage detection. In addition, the circuit design of the present invention is relatively simple, does not affect the original circuit design, does not occupy space, and realizes oil leakage detection under the condition of miniaturization of the electronic cigarette. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The technical solutions and other beneficial effects of the present invention will be made apparent by describing in detail the specific embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a detection unit provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of another detection unit provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of a first oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 5 A partial circuit diagram of a first oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 6 A schematic structural diagram of a second oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 7A partial circuit diagram of a second oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 8 A flowchart of the steps of an oil leakage detection method provided by an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The technical scheme in the embodiment of the present invention will be described clearly and completely below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiment of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiment is only a part of the embodiment of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiment of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0045] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the term "and / or" herein is merely a description of the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that three relationships may exist. For example, A and / or B may represent: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " herein, unless otherwise specified, generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship.

[0046] Electronic cigarettes are an electronic product that imitates cigarettes. They are mainly composed of four parts: smoke oil (containing nicotine, flavors, solvent propylene glycol, etc.), heating system, power supply and filter. They produce aerosol with a specific smell through heating and atomization for smokers to use.

[0047] The structure of an electronic cigarette is mainly divided into a cigarette rod and a cigarette cartridge containing cigarette oil. The internal structure of the cigarette rod uses the same basic components: PCB board, battery and various electronic circuits, and the cigarette cartridge is used to load the cigarette oil.

[0048] When using, users inhale the smoke generated by the oil in the cartridge. The oil can be filled by professionals during manufacturing. Too much or too little filling may cause oil leakage. The oil flowing into the circuit will cause safety problems, such as corroding the circuit, causing the electronic cigarette to start automatically or fail, etc. Therefore, a leakage detection method is needed to detect the leakage, issue a prompt reminder, and avoid safety problems.

[0049] The present invention provides an oil leakage detection device, an electronic cigarette and an oil leakage detection method. The oil leakage detection circuit is a resistive detection, which is implemented by a voltage-dividing resistor method, aiming to effectively solve the technical problem in the prior art that it is difficult to promptly detect oil leakage in disposable electronic cigarettes. The specific scheme of the present invention is described in detail below.

[0050] Figure 1Schematic diagram of the structure of an oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention. According to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides an oil leakage detection device for an electronic cigarette, such as Figure 1 As shown, the device comprises:

[0051] A detection unit 10 and a control unit 20, wherein a first end of the detection unit 10 is electrically connected to a power source 40 via a voltage-dividing resistor 30, and the other end is grounded, and the control unit 20 is electrically connected to the first end of the detection unit 10;

[0052] In the case that the electronic cigarette leaks, the target voltage of the first end of the detection unit 10 changes due to the coverage of the cigarette oil, and the control unit 20 determines whether the electronic cigarette is in a state of leakage based on the voltage change.

[0053] Exemplarily, the present invention detects whether the electronic cigarette is leaking oil by means of a resistor voltage divider. A voltage divider resistor refers to the resistance of a conductor connected in series with a circuit. When the total voltage remains unchanged, a voltage divider resistor is connected in series with a circuit to play a voltage divider role. A part of the voltage will drop on the voltage divider resistor, reducing the voltage across the circuit. In a series circuit, the currents on each resistor are equal, and the sum of the voltages across each resistor is equal to the total circuit voltage. Resistor voltage dividers are widely used in electronic circuits.

[0054] The present invention connects two resistors in series on the circuit of the electronic cigarette, namely, the detection part 10 and the voltage-dividing resistor 30. In the circuit, the voltage-dividing resistor 30 and the detection part 10 are connected in series and electrically connected between the power supply 40 of the electronic cigarette and the ground. When the electronic cigarette is in a non-leakage state, the resistance of the detection part 10 is very high, and it is in a state of extremely high resistance to the ground or the power supply 40, which is almost a circuit break in the circuit. Therefore, the detection part 10 hardly passes current, and correspondingly, its voltage is also extremely small. The detection part 10 has a specific layout, and it is necessary to make the detection part 10 face the flue. Once the oil of the electronic cigarette leaks, the oil will flow out of the flue and cover the detection part 10, causing the resistance value to change. Specifically, the dripping oil smoke will significantly reduce the resistance value of the detection part 10. Under the voltage provided by the power supply 40, the current in the detection part 10 is turned on, and the voltage of the detection part 10 changes accordingly. Compared with the non-leakage state, in the leakage state, the voltages of the detection part 10 and the voltage-dividing resistor 30 are changed, so the voltage value between the two resistors, that is, at the first end of the detection part 10, is changed accordingly. By obtaining the voltage change of the target voltage at the first end of the detection part 10 through the control unit 20 of the electronic cigarette, the leakage state of the electronic cigarette can be determined.

[0055] The power supply 40 circuit provides a reference voltage, supplies power to the chip and provides a regulated voltage. The resistance value of the voltage divider resistor 30 can be set to 10M or other values. In the present invention, the number and resistance value of the detection unit 10 and the voltage divider resistor 30 can be designed according to specific application requirements, and the size of the detection unit 10 can be set according to the area of ​​copper exposed in the circuit, which is not limited by the present invention.

[0056] Furthermore, the device comprises a circuit board, the circuit board has a first surface facing the flue and a second surface facing the airway, and the detection unit 10 has a conductive circuit laid on the first surface.

[0057] For example, there are printed circuit boards (PCBs) in the electronic cigarette, which are used to integrate various electronic components. The type of the circuit board in the present invention can be a rigid circuit board, a flexible circuit board, or a rigid-flexible combination board. Among them, the rigid circuit board has a certain rigidity and is not easy to bend, which can provide a certain support for the electronic components; the flexible circuit board can be bent, which is convenient for assembling electronic components and saving space; the rigid-flexible combination board is a rigid board and a flexible board pressed together, which not only has a supporting function but also has bending characteristics.

[0058] The circuit board has two sides, the first side is the welding side, facing the smoke channel of the electronic cigarette, and the second side is the component side, facing the air channel of the electronic cigarette. There is a solder mask on the first side, usually green or brown in color, which is a protective layer for insulation, which can protect the copper wire and prevent short circuits caused by wave soldering.

[0059] The present invention manufactures a detection part 10 on a circuit board. Specifically, the detection part 10 has a conductive circuit. In the direction from the second surface to the first surface, a conductive layer and an anti-oxidation layer are sequentially manufactured on the circuit board. The conductive layer is exposed copper wire or other conductive metals. Since the exposed copper wire directly exposed to the air is easily oxidized, it is necessary to perform tin spraying, gold immersion, carbonization and other processes on the surface to form an anti-oxidation layer. Of course, other anti-oxidation processes such as gold plating can also be used, and are not limited to the listed categories.

[0060] Furthermore, the conductive circuit includes a first circuit and a second circuit, the first circuit and the second circuit are laid on the first surface in a first preset shape and are staggered with each other, the first preset shape is a forked finger shape or a double vortex shape, and there is a preset minimum spacing between any position of the first circuit and any position of the second circuit, wherein, when the electronic cigarette does not leak oil, the first circuit and the second circuit remain insulated, and when the electronic cigarette leaks oil, an electrical connection appears between the first circuit and the second circuit, and the resistance value of the detection unit 10 becomes smaller.

[0061] Exemplarily, the conductive circuit is arranged on the first surface, and includes at least two circuits, a first circuit and a second circuit that are not in contact with each other. In order to make the two circuits not in contact with each other but close to each other, the first circuit and the second circuit need to be laid staggered with each other in a first preset shape. Generally, the first preset shape can be of various types, and a common one is a forked finger shape. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a detection unit 10 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the interdigitated circuit can be arranged in a rectangular frame, with a regular layout and easy wiring. Another common shape is a double vortex shape, where the first circuit and the second circuit are arranged at intervals from each other, which is suitable for circular wiring scenarios. In order to allow the e-liquid to conduct the two circuits, there is a preset minimum spacing between any position of the first circuit and any position of the second circuit. Figure 2 It can be seen that the circuit design can achieve the effect of detecting smoke oil. When the electronic cigarette is not leaking, the first circuit and the second circuit remain insulated, there is no electrical connection between the first circuit and the second circuit, and the two are equivalent to an open circuit, and the resistance is infinite. When the electronic cigarette leaks, the smoke oil on the flue covers the detection part 10. Since the smoke oil is a conductive material, the first circuit and the second circuit are electrically connected due to the conductivity of the smoke oil, so the first circuit and the second circuit are connected, and the detection part 10 becomes a conductive resistor, and the corresponding resistance value becomes smaller, which causes the voltage of the detection part 10 to change, and then transmits it to the control unit 20.

[0062] Among them, the interdigital circuit mainly includes four structural parameters, namely: the number of pairs of interdigital structures, the width of the interdigital fingers, the gap distance between adjacent interdigital fingers, and the thickness of the interdigital structure. The larger the aspect ratio of the interdigital fingers, the greater the density of the interdigital fingers, and the smaller the initial resistance of the interdigital structure, the higher the sensitivity and response speed. When the size of the interdigital electrode structure is reduced to below the micron level, the slight resistance change between the interdigital electrode structures can be sensitively detected. In practical applications, the four parameters can be set according to application requirements.

[0063] It should be noted that the detection unit 10 can have a variety of layouts, not limited to Figure 2 In the two structures, the layout structure, size, quantity and area of ​​the detection part 10 can be specifically designed according to the actual application, and the present invention does not limit this.

[0064] Optionally, the first circuit is provided with a first via hole passing through the circuit board, and the first via hole is used to electrically connect the first wire to the voltage divider resistor 30 on the second surface; the second circuit is provided with a second via hole passing through the circuit board, and the second via hole is used to ground the second wire on the second surface.

[0065] Exemplarily, when the detection unit 10 is arranged on the first surface of the circuit board, and other components are arranged on the second surface of the circuit board, in order to electrically connect the detection unit 10 with other components, a via hole is provided on each of the first circuit and the second circuit, and both via holes pass through the circuit board, and the wire can pass through the first via hole and the second via hole to electrically connect the detection unit 10 with other components. Among them, the wire in the first via hole is electrically connected to the voltage divider resistor 30, and the wire in the second via hole is grounded.

[0066] Optionally, the detection unit 10 is a humidity-sensitive resistor or a humidity-sensitive capacitor.

[0067] For example, a hygroscopic resistor uses a hygroscopic material to absorb water and change its resistance value. The hygroscopic resistor can be a semiconductor ceramic hygroscopic element, a lithium chloride hygroscopic resistor or an organic polymer film hygroscopic resistor. The characteristic of a hygroscopic resistor is that a film made of a hygroscopic material is covered on a substrate. When water is adsorbed on the hygroscopic film, the resistivity and resistance value of the element change.

[0068] Humidity sensitive capacitors are generally made of polymer film capacitors, and commonly used polymer materials include polystyrene, polyimide, acid acetate fiber, etc. When the ambient humidity changes, its capacitance also changes, and the change in capacitance is proportional to the relative humidity.

[0069] In addition to resistive and capacitive humidity sensors, there are also electrolyte ion humidity sensors and weight humidity sensors. In the present invention, the circuit parameters are changed according to different sensitive elements, and the control unit 20 sends an alarm message after detecting the circuit change caused by the smoke oil to avoid safety problems.

[0070] Furthermore, the conductive circuit is laid on the first surface in a second preset shape, and the second preset shape is a bend shape or a single spiral shape.

[0071] Exemplarily, when the detection unit 10 is a humidity-sensitive resistor, the conductive circuit can be laid out according to the second preset shape. Specifically, the layout of the conductive circuit is determined according to the area on the circuit board where the e-liquid drips. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another detection unit 10 provided in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the second preset shape is as follows Figure 3 The bent shape shown in the figure, or the single spiral shape, wherein the bent shape is suitable for the layout of the conductive line in the rectangular area, and the single spiral shape is suitable for the circular layout. It should be noted that in actual applications, the preset shape is not limited to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Any shape that can achieve the circuit layout mode of detecting oil leakage is within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0072] In the present invention, in order to detect the dripping of smoke oil in time, when laying out the circuit, the detection unit 10 is set on the circuit board of the electronic cigarette and needs to face the flue, so that once the oil leakage occurs, it can be detected in time, which increases the accuracy and timeliness of the oil leakage detection. In addition, the circuit design of the present invention is relatively simple, does not affect the original circuit design, does not occupy space, and realizes the oil leakage detection under the condition of miniaturization of the electronic cigarette.

[0073] Furthermore, the device includes an indicator light 50 , which is electrically connected to the control unit 20 . When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state, the indicator light 50 flashes in a preset manner under the control of the control unit 20 .

[0074] For example, an indicator light 50 is provided in the circuit of the electronic cigarette, and the indicator light 50 may have multiple functions. In order to enable personnel to obtain the oil leakage as soon as possible, after the control unit 20 of the electronic cigarette determines that the target voltage of the first end of the detection unit 10 has changed, it determines that the electronic cigarette has an oil leakage and then issues a control instruction to make the indicator light 50 flash in a preset flashing manner. In addition to the indicator light 50, other alarm methods can also be used to remind the user, for example, by sound, a sound unit is provided in the electronic cigarette, and in the oil leakage state, a whistle sound is emitted to remind the user.

[0075] The indicator light 50 may be a flashing light emitting diode. A flashing light emitting diode (BTS) is a special light emitting device composed of a CMOS integrated circuit and a light emitting diode, which can be used for alarm indication and undervoltage and overvoltage indication. When the flashing light emitting diode is used, it does not need to be connected to other components externally. It can flash and emit light as long as an appropriate DC working voltage (5V) is applied to both ends of its pins.

[0076] Exemplarily, the present invention provides two circuit designs of the control unit 20 to obtain the voltage change of the target voltage of the first end of the detection unit 10. In the first control unit 20, the control unit 20 includes a microprocessor 21 and an analog-to-digital converter 22 (ADC). In the second control unit 20, the control unit 20 includes a microprocessor 21 and a comparator 23, which are described in detail as follows:

[0077] Optionally, the control unit 20 includes a microprocessor 21 and an analog-to-digital converter 22 (ADC), and the analog-to-digital converter 22 (ADC) samples the target voltage according to a clock signal sent by a clock unit 60. When the target voltage is greater than a preset voltage threshold, the microprocessor 21 determines that the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state.

[0078] For example, Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a first oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 4As shown, in the first circuit design, the control unit 20 includes a microprocessor 21 and an analog-to-digital converter 22 (ADC). Figure 5 This is a partial circuit diagram of the first oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the microprocessor 21 plays a control role, and the analog-to-digital converter 22 (ADC) plays a role in sampling the target voltage. Specifically, the electronic cigarette also includes a clock unit 60, which provides a clock signal for the logic circuit. The analog-to-digital converter 22 (ADC) regularly samples the target voltage at the first end of the detection unit 10 based on the clock signal, and compares each sampling result with a preset voltage threshold. When there is no oil leakage, the target voltage is small, and when there is an oil leakage, the target voltage will increase. When the target voltage is greater than the preset voltage threshold, the microprocessor 21 determines that the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state.

[0079] The microprocessor 21 is a central processing unit composed of one or a few large-scale integrated circuits, and performs the functions of the control unit and the arithmetic logic unit. The microprocessor 21 can complete operations such as fetching instructions, executing instructions, and exchanging information with external memory and logic units, and plays the role of operation control. The microprocessor 21 has the advantages of small size, light weight, and easy modularization.

[0080] The analog-to-digital converter 22 (ADC) can convert an analog signal into a digital signal, and convert a continuous-time and continuous-amplitude analog signal into a discrete-time and discrete-amplitude digital signal. The analog-to-digital converter 22 (ADC) can also provide isolated measurements, converting the input analog voltage or current into a digital number representing the magnitude of the voltage or current. Usually the digital output is a binary number proportional to the input in a two's complement.

[0081] Clock signals are usually used in synchronous circuits. They act as timers to ensure that related electronic components can operate synchronously. Clock signals are the basis of sequential logic and are used to determine when the state in a logic unit is updated. They are semaphores with a fixed cycle and are independent of operation.

[0082] Optionally, the control unit 20 includes a microprocessor 21 and a comparator 23, the comparator 23 is electrically connected between the microprocessor 21 and the first end of the detection unit 10, the comparator 23 outputs a voltage comparison result based on the target voltage, and the microprocessor 21 determines whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage comparison result.

[0083] For example, Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a second oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 6As shown, in the first circuit design, the control unit 20 includes a microprocessor 21 and a comparator 23, one input end of the comparator 23 is electrically connected to the first end of the detection unit 10, and processes and compares the oil leakage detection analog signal. Figure 7 This is a partial circuit diagram of the second oil leakage detection device provided by an embodiment of the present invention. When the target voltage corresponding to the detection unit 10 changes, the comparator 23 compares the target voltage and outputs the comparison result. If the electronic cigarette is not leaking, the comparator 23 outputs a stable level value. When the electronic cigarette is in a state of leaking, the level value corresponding to the output end of the comparator 23 changes. The microprocessor 21 determines whether the electronic cigarette is in a state of leaking based on the voltage comparison result.

[0084] The comparator 23 can compare two or more data items to determine whether the data are equal, or determine the size relationship and arrangement order between the data. The comparator 23 can compare an analog voltage signal with a reference voltage. The two inputs of the comparator 23 are analog signals, and the output is a binary signal 0 or 1. When the difference of the input voltage increases or decreases and the positive and negative signs remain unchanged, its output remains constant.

[0085] Furthermore, the device comprises an atomizer core driving unit 80, and the atomizer core driving unit 80 is used to heat the atomizer core of the electronic cigarette.

[0086] For example, the electronic cigarette has an atomizer core drive unit 80 for heating the e-liquid, which is constructed as a heating element. The atomizer core drive unit 80 is electrically connected to the control unit 20, and generates heat through battery power, so that the e-liquid near the atomizer core evaporates to form smoke for the user to inhale.

[0087] Furthermore, the device also includes a smoking sensor unit 70 , which is electrically connected to the control unit 20 and is used to receive the pressure applied to the pressure detection component of the electronic cigarette and convert the pressure into an electrical signal for transmission to the control unit 20 .

[0088] For example, in order to avoid safety problems caused by oil leakage during the use of the electronic cigarette, it is necessary to detect whether the user is using the electronic cigarette. Specifically, the electronic cigarette is provided with a smoking sensor unit 70, and a pressure detection component is provided at the smoking part of the electronic cigarette to detect whether the user is using the electronic cigarette.

[0089] Specifically, there is an oscillation circuit in the smoking sensor unit 70, which processes the electrical signal output by the pressure detection component. When the pressure detection component of the electronic cigarette is exerted with the pressure of inhalation, the pressure is converted into an electrical signal. The oscillation circuit will further convert the electrical signal into a frequency signal and transmit it to the control unit 20, so that the control unit 20 can judge the user's smoking status.

[0090] In addition to detecting whether pressure is applied to the electronic cigarette, it is also possible to detect whether there is airflow at the smoking area of ​​the electronic cigarette, and determine the user's usage status through the airflow sensor. Specifically, when the user inhales, the airflow sensor responds, thereby triggering the control unit 20. The control unit 20 activates the atomizer core drive unit 80 to heat the atomizer core, thereby generating steam after the smoke oil evaporates. When the inhalation stops, the airflow in the sensor disappears, the airflow sensing switch is turned off, the control unit 20 of the control circuit stops working, and the atomizer stops working. In summary, pressure sensors and airflow sensors can be used to determine whether the user is using an electronic cigarette. In addition, temperature and humidity sensors can also be used, and the present invention does not limit this.

[0091] Furthermore, the control unit 20 receives the electrical signal, and determines whether the electronic cigarette is in use based on the electrical signal. When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state and the use state at the same time, the control unit 20 locks the atomizer core drive unit 80 so that the atomizer core drive unit 80 no longer heats the atomizer core.

[0092] Exemplarily, when the control unit 20 determines that the electronic cigarette is in use based on the information transmitted by the smoking sensor unit 70, and the electronic cigarette is also in an oil leakage state, the atomizer core drive unit 80 is locked. Even if the user takes a forced inhalation operation, the atomizer core drive unit 80 will no longer heat the atomizer core, thereby avoiding safety issues in use.

[0093] It should be noted that the control unit 20 may also directly lock the atomizer core drive unit 80 when determining that the electronic cigarette is in a state of oil leakage, so that the electronic cigarette is in an inoperative state, and the user cannot smoke the electronic cigarette normally no matter when using it.

[0094] According to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention further provides an electronic cigarette, comprising a cigarette rod and a cigarette cartridge loaded with cigarette oil, and also comprising any one of the above-mentioned oil leakage detection devices.

[0095] Among them, other aspects and implementation details of the electronic cigarette are the same or similar to the oil leakage detection device described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0096] Figure 8 A flow chart of steps of an oil leakage detection method provided by an embodiment of the present invention. According to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention further provides an oil leakage detection method for an electronic cigarette having a detection unit, wherein a first end of the detection unit is electrically connected to a power supply through a voltage-dividing resistor, and the other end is grounded, such as Figure 8 As shown, the method includes:

[0097] Step 101: Detecting a voltage change of a target voltage of the first end of the detection unit due to e-liquid coverage;

[0098] Step 102: determining whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage change.

[0099] Furthermore, the method further comprises:

[0100] When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state, the indicator light of the electronic cigarette is controlled to flash in a preset manner.

[0101] Optionally, in the above step 102, judging whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage change includes:

[0102] The target voltage is sampled according to the clock signal, and when the target voltage is greater than a preset voltage threshold, it is determined that the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state.

[0103] Optionally, in the above step 102, judging whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage change includes:

[0104] The target voltage is compared by a comparator to output a voltage comparison result, and whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state is determined based on the voltage comparison result.

[0105] Furthermore, the method further comprises:

[0106] The pressure applied to the pressure detection component of the electronic cigarette is received, and whether the electronic cigarette is in use is determined based on the pressure. When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state and the use state at the same time, the atomization core of the electronic cigarette is not heated.

[0107] Among them, other aspects and implementation details of the oil leakage detection method are the same or similar to the oil leakage detection device described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0108] Through one or more of the above embodiments of the present invention, at least the following technical effects can be achieved:

[0109] In the technical solution disclosed in the present invention, a detection unit and a voltage-dividing resistor are provided in the oil leakage detection device, and the control unit determines whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state according to the voltage change of the target voltage at the first end of the detection unit, and activates the indicator light and locks the atomizer core drive unit for heating the oil based on the oil leakage state. This solution can detect the oil leakage of the electronic cigarette in time and issue a reminder, prevent the electronic cigarette from self-starting or circuit corrosion, and avoid safety hazards during the transportation, storage and use of the electronic cigarette.

[0110] In summary, although the present invention has been disclosed as above in terms of preferred embodiments, the above preferred embodiments are not intended to limit the present invention. A person skilled in the art may make various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention shall be based on the scope defined in the claims.

Claims

1. An oil leakage detection device for electronic cigarettes, characterized in that: The device comprises a detection unit and a control unit, wherein a first end of the detection unit is electrically connected to a power supply via a voltage-dividing resistor and the other end is grounded, and the control unit is electrically connected to the first end of the detection unit; Wherein, the detection unit has a conductive circuit, the conductive circuit includes a first circuit and a second circuit, the first circuit and the second circuit are laid in a staggered manner, and there is a preset minimum spacing between any position of the first circuit and any position of the second circuit. When the electronic cigarette is not leaking oil, the first circuit and the second circuit remain insulated. When the electronic cigarette is leaking oil, an electrical connection occurs between the first circuit and the second circuit, and the resistance value of the detection unit decreases, so that the target voltage of the first end of the detection unit produces a voltage change due to the coverage of the oil, and the control unit determines whether the electronic cigarette is in a leaking state based on the voltage change.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The device includes a circuit board having a first surface facing the flue and a second surface facing the gas passage, and the first line and the second line are laid on the first surface.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that The first circuit and the second circuit are laid on the first surface in a mutually staggered manner in a first preset shape, and the first preset shape is an interdigitated shape or a double vortex shape.

4. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that The first circuit is provided with a first via hole passing through the circuit board, and the first via hole is used to electrically connect the first wire with the voltage divider resistor on the second surface. The second circuit is provided with a second via hole passing through the circuit board, and the second via hole is used to ground the second wire on the second surface.

5. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The device comprises an indicator light which is electrically connected to the control unit. When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state, the indicator light flashes in a preset manner under the control of the control unit.

6. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The control unit includes a microprocessor and an analog-to-digital converter. The analog-to-digital converter samples the target voltage according to a clock signal sent by a clock unit. When the target voltage is greater than a preset voltage threshold, the microprocessor determines that the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state.

7. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The control unit includes a microprocessor and a comparator, the comparator is electrically connected between the microprocessor and the first end of the detection unit, the comparator outputs a voltage comparison result based on the target voltage, and the microprocessor determines whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage comparison result.

8. The device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that The device comprises an atomizer core driving unit, which is electrically connected to the control unit and is used to heat the atomizer core of the electronic cigarette.

9. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that The device further comprises a smoking sensor unit, which is electrically connected to the control unit and is used for receiving the pressure applied to the pressure detection component of the electronic cigarette and converting the pressure into an electrical signal and transmitting it to the control unit.

10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that The control unit receives the electrical signal, and determines whether the electronic cigarette is in use based on the electrical signal. When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state and the use state at the same time, the control unit locks the atomizer core drive unit so that the atomizer core drive unit no longer heats the atomizer core.

11. An electronic cigarette, characterized in that: It comprises a cigarette rod and a cigarette cartridge loaded with cigarette oil, and also comprises an oil leakage detection device as described in any one of claims 1-10.

12. A method for detecting oil leakage, for an electronic cigarette having a detection unit, wherein a first end of the detection unit is electrically connected to a power supply via a voltage-dividing resistor, and the other end is grounded, characterized in that: The detection part has a conductive circuit, the conductive circuit includes a first circuit and a second circuit, the first circuit and the second circuit are laid staggered with each other, there is a preset minimum spacing between any position of the first circuit and any position of the second circuit, when the electronic cigarette does not leak oil, the first circuit and the second circuit remain insulated, and the method includes: In the case of oil leakage in the electronic cigarette, an electrical connection occurs between the first circuit and the second circuit, the resistance value of the detection unit decreases, causing a voltage change at the first end of the detection unit, and detecting a voltage change caused by the target voltage at the first end of the detection unit being covered by the oil; Whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state is determined based on the voltage change.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that The method further comprises: When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state, the indicator light of the electronic cigarette is controlled to flash in a preset manner.

14. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that The determining whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage change includes: The target voltage is sampled according to the clock signal, and when the target voltage is greater than a preset voltage threshold, it is determined that the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state.

15. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that The determining whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state based on the voltage change includes: The target voltage is compared by a comparator to output a voltage comparison result, and whether the electronic cigarette is in an oil leakage state is determined based on the voltage comparison result.

16. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that The method further comprises: The pressure applied to the pressure detection component of the electronic cigarette is received, and whether the electronic cigarette is in use is determined based on the pressure. When the electronic cigarette is in the oil leakage state and the use state at the same time, the atomization core of the electronic cigarette is not heated.

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