An airflow sensor, an airflow detection method, and an electronic cigarette

Abstract

This application discloses an airflow sensor, an airflow detection method, and an electronic cigarette. The airflow sensor's detection circuit module includes multiple detection circuits, each capable of independently detecting an airflow signal characterizing the magnitude of the input airflow. When the airflow signal exceeds a preset value, it outputs a first state signal characterizing the inhalation state. The airflow sensor's processing module only outputs a response signal when a preset number of the detection circuits output the first state signal. This avoids misjudgment by a single detection circuit leading to erroneous response signal output, improves the airflow signal detection accuracy of the airflow sensor, reduces the probability of accidental inhalation due to misjudgment by the airflow sensor, and enhances the reliability of the electronic cigarette.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to the field of electronic cigarette technology, specifically to sensing technology within the field of electronic cigarette technology, and more specifically to an airflow sensor, an airflow detection method, and an electronic cigarette. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic cigarettes (E-Cigarettes), also known as electronic atomizers, are electronic products that mimic traditional cigarettes, having the same appearance, smoke, taste, and feel.

[0003] Electronic cigarettes typically include an airflow sensor. This sensor detects the amount of airflow passing through the microphone and uses this airflow to determine whether the user is inhaling, thus providing a signal to control the cigarette's response to inhalation. However, current airflow sensors have a problem with inaccurate airflow detection in certain situations. They may output a response signal when the user is not inhaling, causing the e-cigarette to incorrectly enter an inhalation response state. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides an airflow sensor, an airflow detection method, and an electronic cigarette, aiming to improve the detection accuracy of the airflow sensor and reduce the probability of accidental inhalation of electronic cigarettes.

[0005] To achieve the above technical objectives, the embodiments of this application provide the following technical solutions:

[0006] Firstly, this specification provides an airflow sensor for use in electronic cigarettes, the airflow sensor comprising: a detection circuit module and a processing module; wherein...

[0007] The detection circuit module includes multiple sets of detection circuits. The detection circuits are used to detect airflow signals that characterize the magnitude of the input airflow. When the airflow signal is greater than a preset value, a first state signal that characterizes the inhalation state is output.

[0008] The processing module is configured to output a response signal when the first state signal is output by a number of the detection circuits greater than or equal to a preset number. The response signal is used to indicate that the electronic cigarette is responding to the inhalation state. The preset number is greater than or equal to two sets.

[0009] In some embodiments, the detection circuit is further configured to output a second state signal characterizing a non-inhalation state when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value;

[0010] The processing module is further configured to output a stop signal when at least one of the detection circuits outputs the second state signal, the stop signal being used to instruct the electronic cigarette to stop responding to the inhalation state.

[0011] In some embodiments, the detection circuit includes: a clock generation unit and a clock calculation unit; wherein,

[0012] The clock generation unit is used to generate a reference clock signal and a detection clock signal, wherein the detection clock signal is related to the magnitude of the input airflow;

[0013] The clock calculation unit is used to calculate the airflow signal based on the reference clock signal and the detection clock signal, and output the first state signal when the airflow signal is greater than the preset value; and output the second state signal when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value.

[0014] In some embodiments, the reference clock signal includes an initial reference clock signal and a current reference clock signal; the detection clock signal includes an initial clock signal and a current clock signal.

[0015] The clock generation unit includes: a reference clock unit and a clock detection unit; wherein...

[0016] The reference clock unit is used to generate an initial reference clock signal in the initial state and a current reference clock signal in the current state;

[0017] The detection clock unit is used to generate an initial clock signal in the initial state and a current clock signal in the current state; the initial clock signal is related to the input airflow magnitude in the initial state, and the current clock signal is related to the input airflow magnitude in the current state.

[0018] The clock calculation unit is specifically used to calculate the airflow signal based on the first frequency ratio and the second frequency ratio, and to output the first status signal when the airflow signal is greater than the preset value.

[0019] The first frequency ratio includes the ratio of the frequency of the initial clock signal to the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, and the second frequency ratio includes the ratio of the frequency of the current clock signal to the frequency of the current reference clock signal.

[0020] In some implementations, the clock calculation unit calculates the airflow signal based on a first frequency ratio and a second frequency ratio specifically for:

[0021] The airflow signal is obtained by substituting the frequency of the initial clock signal, the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, the frequency of the current clock signal, and the frequency of the current reference clock signal into a preset set of equations.

[0022] The preset set of equations includes: Among them, T 1ini The frequency of the initial clock signal, T 1inr T1 represents the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, T1 represents the frequency of the current clock signal, and T... 1ref A1 represents the frequency of the current reference clock signal, B1 represents the first frequency ratio, and M1 represents the airflow signal.

[0023] In some embodiments, the reference clock unit includes: a first current source, a first comparator, a first capacitor, and a first switching element; wherein,

[0024] The first input terminal of the first comparator is used to receive the first reference voltage, and the second input terminal of the first comparator is electrically connected to the output terminal of the first current source, the first terminal of the first capacitor, and the first connection terminal of the first switching element.

[0025] The output terminal of the first comparator is electrically connected to the control terminal of the first switching element;

[0026] The second connection terminal of the first switching element is electrically connected to the second terminal of the first capacitor and the fixed potential point;

[0027] The first switching element is used to turn on the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal of the first switching element when the voltage difference between the control terminal and the second connection terminal of the first switching element meets the conduction condition.

[0028] The detection clock unit includes: a second current source, a second comparator, a second capacitor, and a second switching element; wherein,

[0029] The first input terminal of the second comparator is used to receive the second reference voltage, and the second input terminal of the second comparator is electrically connected to the output terminal of the second current source, the first terminal of the second capacitor, and the first connection terminal of the second switching element.

[0030] The output terminal of the second comparator is electrically connected to the control terminal of the second switching element;

[0031] The second connection terminal of the second switching element is electrically connected to the second terminal of the second capacitor and the fixed potential point;

[0032] The second switching element is used to turn on the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal of the second switching element when the voltage difference between the control terminal and the second connection terminal of the second switching element meets the conduction condition;

[0033] The capacitance value of the second capacitor is positively correlated with the magnitude of the input airflow.

[0034] In some embodiments, the multiple detection circuits include: a first detection circuit and a second detection circuit; wherein the detection accuracy of the first detection circuit is greater than the detection accuracy of the second detection circuit.

[0035] The processing module is specifically used to output the response signal when both the first detection circuit and the second detection circuit output the first state signal.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first detection circuit is further configured to output a second state signal characterizing a non-inhalation state when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value;

[0037] The processing module is further configured to output a stop signal when the first detection circuit outputs a second state signal; the stop signal is used to instruct the electronic cigarette to stop responding to the inhalation state.

[0038] Secondly, this specification provides an airflow detection method applied to electronic cigarettes, the airflow detection method comprising:

[0039] If a first state signal is received from the detection circuit in a number greater than or equal to a preset number, a response signal is output. The response signal is used to indicate the electronic cigarette's response to inhalation. The first state signal is generated by the detection circuit when it detects that the airflow signal representing the magnitude of the input airflow is greater than a preset value, and it represents the inhalation state. The preset number is greater than or equal to two sets.

[0040] Thirdly, this specification provides an electronic cigarette, comprising:

[0041] The airflow sensor as described in any of the above;

[0042] A controller, connected to the airflow sensor, is used to respond to the inhalation state based on the response signal output by the airflow sensor.

[0043] Fourthly, one embodiment of this specification provides an electronic device including a processor and a memory; wherein the memory is connected to the processor and is used to store a computer program; the processor is used to implement the airflow detection method as described in any of the preceding claims by running the computer program stored in the memory.

[0044] Fifthly, one embodiment of this specification provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the airflow detection method as described above.

[0045] Sixthly, one embodiment of this specification provides a computer program product or computer program, the computer program product including a computer program stored in a computer-readable storage medium; a processor of the computer device reads the computer program from the computer-readable storage medium, and when the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps of the airflow detection method described above.

[0046] As can be seen from the above technical solutions, the embodiments of this application provide an airflow sensor, an airflow detection method, and an electronic cigarette. The detection circuit module of the airflow sensor includes multiple sets of detection circuits, each capable of independently detecting an airflow signal characterizing the magnitude of the input airflow. When the airflow signal exceeds a preset value, it outputs a first state signal characterizing the inhalation state. The processing module of the airflow sensor only outputs a response signal when a preset number of the detection circuits output the first state signal. This avoids the possibility of erroneous response signal output due to misjudgment by a single detection circuit, improves the airflow signal detection accuracy of the airflow sensor, reduces the probability of accidental inhalation due to misjudgment by the airflow sensor, and enhances the reliability of the electronic cigarette. Attached Figure Description

[0047] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0048] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an airflow sensor provided for one embodiment of this specification;

[0049] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the working state of an airflow sensor is provided for one embodiment of this specification;

[0050] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the working state of an airflow sensor is provided for another embodiment of this specification;

[0051] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the working state of an airflow sensor provided for yet another embodiment of this specification;

[0052] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the working state of an airflow sensor provided for another embodiment of this specification;

[0053] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of an airflow sensor is provided for another embodiment of this specification;

[0054] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a detection circuit provided for one embodiment of this specification;

[0055] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of a reference clock unit and a detection clock unit provided for one embodiment of this specification;

[0056] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating an airflow detection method provided for one embodiment of this specification;

[0057] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device provided for one embodiment of this specification. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the embodiments of this specification shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this specification pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in the embodiments of this specification do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to avoid confusion of constituent elements.

[0059] Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout this specification, "a plurality of" means "at least two," and "including" is interpreted as open-ended or encompassing, that is, "including, but not limited to." In the description of this specification, terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "exemplary embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples" are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic associated with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this specification. The illustrative representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0060] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this specification, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this specification, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this specification.

[0061] Overview

[0062] Electronic cigarettes, with their advantages of reusability, lack of open flame, and adjustable smoke and flavor, have gradually become the preferred choice for many users when consuming tobacco products. In electronic cigarettes, the airflow sensor is a crucial component determining the inhalation status. The airflow sensor detects the amount of airflow passing through the microphone to determine whether the user has inhaled. For example, the airflow sensor converts the airflow into an electrical signal. By judging the magnitude of this signal, the sensor detects the amount of airflow passing through the microphone. When the signal is large, it can be assumed that the airflow is large, indicating that the user has inhaled. In this case, the airflow sensor outputs a response signal, causing the electronic cigarette to respond to the user's inhalation and produce smoke. Conversely, when the signal is small, it can be assumed that the airflow is small, indicating that the user has not inhaled. In this case, the airflow sensor outputs a stop signal, causing the controller (or control chip) in the electronic cigarette to stop responding to the user's inhalation, ceasing smoke production and preventing waste of e-liquid.

[0063] However, e-cigarettes are used in complex environments. In some scenarios, the airflow sensor may misinterpret the signal due to leakage or other reasons. This could cause the e-cigarette to output a response signal even when the user is not inhaling, leading to the e-cigarette incorrectly entering an inhalation state and reducing its reliability. The inventors discovered the following reasons for the airflow sensor's misinterpretation:

[0064] Airflow sensors typically detect airflow magnitude through a detection circuit. Current detection circuits convert the airflow passing through the microphone into an electrical signal, and determine the airflow magnitude by judging the magnitude of this electrical signal, thus achieving airflow detection. However, the detection circuit may be affected by external factors such as temperature and electromagnetic fields, leading to inaccurate airflow magnitude detection and resulting in false alarms (i.e., when the user is not inhaling the e-cigarette and the airflow passing through the microphone is small, the circuit may mistakenly assume that the electrical signal meets the conditions for inhalation and output a response signal). This reduces the reliability of e-cigarettes.

[0065] To solve this problem, the inventors further discovered that multiple detection circuits can be set in the airflow sensor. Only when the detection results of multiple detection circuits indicate that the user has inhaled the e-cigarette will a response signal be output to control the e-cigarette's inhalation state. This avoids the problem of a single detection circuit being affected by the external environment and causing misjudgment, which in turn leads to misjudgment of the entire airflow sensor, thus improving the reliability of e-cigarettes with this airflow sensor.

[0066] Based on the above-described inventive concept, this specification provides an airflow sensor, an airflow detection method, and an electronic cigarette, which will be described exemplarily below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] Exemplary sensor

[0068] One embodiment of this specification provides an airflow sensor, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the airflow sensor, applied to electronic cigarettes, includes: a detection circuit module 10 and a processing module 20; wherein,

[0069] The detection circuit module 10 includes multiple sets of detection circuits 11. The detection circuits 11 are used to detect airflow signals that characterize the magnitude of the input airflow. When the airflow signal is greater than a preset value, a first state signal characterizing the inhalation state is output.

[0070] The processing module 20 is used to output a response signal when the number of first state signals output by the detection circuits 11 is greater than or equal to a preset number. The response signal is used to indicate that the electronic cigarette is responding to the inhalation state. The preset number is greater than or equal to two sets.

[0071] In this embodiment, the detection circuit module 10 is provided with multiple sets of detection circuits 11. Each set of detection circuits 11 can be used to detect the airflow signal, and when the airflow signal is greater than a preset value, it outputs a first state signal representing the inhalation state. The inhalation state (also known as the smoking state) refers to the state in which the user inhales the electronic cigarette. In this state, the user can apply suction through the mouthpiece of the electronic cigarette, that is, a negative pressure is generated outside the mouthpiece, so that the airflow flows from inside the electronic cigarette to the user under the action of the pressure difference. When smoke is generated inside the electronic cigarette, the smoke can flow into the user's mouth with the airflow, satisfying the user's inhalation needs. The non-inhalation state (also known as the non-smoking state) is the opposite of the inhalation state, and can refer to the state in which the user does not inhale the electronic cigarette. In this state, the user does not apply suction through the mouthpiece of the electronic cigarette. The input airflow can refer to the airflow input to the airflow sensor in the inhalation state or the non-inhalation state, or the airflow input to the sensing area of ​​the airflow sensor.

[0072] Because the detection circuit module 10 is equipped with multiple sets of detection circuits 11, each detection circuit 11 can detect the airflow signal independently without interfering with each other. Even if a single detection circuit 11 misjudges and outputs a false first state signal due to the influence of high temperature or other factors, it will not affect the working state of other detection circuits 11. The processing module 20 can output a response signal only when more than or equal to a preset number of the detection circuits 11 output the first state signal, thus avoiding the situation where a single detection circuit 11 misjudges and causes the airflow sensor to misjudge, reducing the probability of airflow sensor misjudges and improving the detection accuracy of the airflow sensor.

[0073] The number of detection circuits 11 in the detection circuit module 10 can be two or more groups. That is, in this specification, unless otherwise specified, "multiple groups" refers to two or more groups, and "a plurality of groups" refers to two or more groups. In some embodiments, the processing module 20 may output a response signal only when all detection circuits 11 in the detection circuit module 10 output a first state signal. In other embodiments, the processing module 20 may output a response signal when some of the detection circuits 11 in the detection circuit module 10 (greater than or equal to two groups of detection circuits 11) output the first state signal.

[0074] For example, refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 ,exist Figure 2 In the process, the detection circuit module 10 includes two sets of detection circuits 11, and the preset number is two sets; the processing module 20 does not output a response signal when only one of the two sets of detection circuits 11 outputs a first state signal; and outputs a response signal only when both sets of detection circuits 11 output the first state signal.

[0075] exist Figure 3 In the detection circuit module 10, there are four sets of detection circuits 11. The preset number can be three sets. When three or more of the four sets of detection circuits 11 output a first state signal, the processing module 20 outputs a response signal. This avoids the situation where the airflow sensor cannot output a response signal due to the failure of one set of detection circuits 11 in the detection circuit module 10, thus improving the adaptability of the airflow sensor.

[0076] exist Figure 4 In the detection circuit module 10, there are four sets of detection circuits 11. The preset number can be two sets. When two or more of the four sets of detection circuits 11 output a first state signal, the processing module 20 outputs a response signal. This avoids the situation where the airflow sensor cannot output a response signal due to the damage of some sets of detection circuits 11 in the detection circuit module 10, thus improving the adaptability of the airflow sensor.

[0077] exist Figure 5 In the detection circuit module 10, there are three sets of detection circuits 11. The preset number can be three sets, meaning that the processing module 20 outputs a response signal when all three sets of detection circuits 11 output a first state signal. That is, in... Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the processing module 20 will only output a response signal when all the detection circuits 11 in the detection circuit module 10 output the first state signal, so as to avoid the electronic cigarette from accidentally entering the inhalation state with a relatively strict response condition.

[0078] This specification does not limit the specific response logic of the processing module 20, as long as it can satisfy the premise that the processing module 20 outputs a response signal when only one set of detection circuits 11 outputs a first state signal.

[0079] The preset value can be set in advance based on experience or test results, combined with the specific circuit structure of the detection circuit 11. This specification does not limit this setting.

[0080] The response signal output by the airflow sensor can switch the electronic cigarette from a non-inhalation state to an inhalation state, or cause other components of the electronic cigarette to respond to the inhalation state. For example, the response signal can cause the atomizer of the electronic cigarette to heat the e-liquid and atomize it into vapor.

[0081] In some implementations, such as Figure 1 The condition for the airflow sensor to stop responding to the inhalation state is shown in this embodiment. The detection circuit 11 is also used to output a second state signal characterizing the non-inhalation state when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value.

[0082] The processing module 20 is specifically used to: output a response signal when a preset number of the detection circuits 11 output a first state signal, and output a stop signal when at least one of the detection circuits 11 outputs a second state signal, wherein the stop signal is used to instruct the electronic cigarette to stop responding to the inhalation state.

[0083] In this embodiment, a relatively strict judgment logic for entering the smoking state is set, that is, the response signal is only output when all the detection circuits 11 in the detection circuit module 10 output the first state signal, which largely avoids the situation of accidentally entering the smoking state.

[0084] In addition, relatively lenient conditions are set for exiting the inhalation state, namely, when at least one of the detection circuits 11 outputs the second state signal, a stop signal is output, so that the electronic cigarette can switch from the inhalation state to the non-inhalation state in a timely manner, avoiding waste of e-liquid and unnecessary wear and tear on other components of the electronic cigarette.

[0085] To further improve the detection accuracy of the airflow sensor and optimize the logic of the airflow sensor in determining the smoking state, in one embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown, the multiple detection circuits 11 include: a first detection circuit 11A and a second detection circuit 11B; wherein, the detection accuracy of the first detection circuit 11A is greater than the detection accuracy of the second detection circuit 11B.

[0086] The processing module 20 is specifically used to output the response signal when both the first detection circuit 11A and the second detection circuit 11B output the first status signal.

[0087] In this embodiment, the detection circuit module 10 includes two sets of detection circuits 11. One set is a first detection circuit 11A with high detection accuracy, and the other set is a second detection circuit 11B with relatively low detection accuracy. The processing module 20 outputs the response signal only when both sets of detection circuits 11 output the first state signal, so as to avoid misjudgment of the airflow sensor as a whole due to misjudgment by one set of detection circuits 11.

[0088] The detection accuracy can refer to the accuracy of the signal generated in the detection circuit 11 and the accuracy of the circuit components that detect the signal. Taking a clock signal as an example, the frequency of the clock signal generated by the detection circuit 11 (the first detection circuit 11A in this embodiment) with higher detection accuracy is closer to the frequency of the preset clock signal.

[0089] In such Figure 6 In the airflow sensor shown, when switching from the inhalation state to the non-inhalation state, the first detection circuit 11A is also used to output a second state signal characterizing the non-inhalation state when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value.

[0090] The processing module 20 is further configured to output a stop signal when the first detection circuit 11A outputs a second state signal; the stop signal is used to instruct the electronic cigarette to stop responding to the inhalation state.

[0091] In this embodiment, the judgment condition for transitioning from the inhalation state to the non-inhalation state is based on the first detection circuit 11A, which has higher detection accuracy. When the first detection circuit 11A outputs a second state signal, regardless of whether the second detection circuit 11B outputs a second state signal, the processing module 20 outputs a stop signal, indicating that the electronic cigarette should transition from the inhalation state to the non-inhalation state. This simplifies the judgment logic, increases the accuracy of the transition from the inhalation state to the non-inhalation state, and reduces the probability of mistakenly transitioning from the inhalation state to the non-inhalation state.

[0092] Regarding the feasible structure of the detection circuit 11, some embodiments of this specification provide a feasible configuration of the detection circuit 11, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the detection circuit 11 includes: a clock generation unit 111 and a clock calculation unit 112; wherein,

[0093] The clock generation unit 111 is used to generate a reference clock signal and a detection clock signal, wherein the detection clock signal is related to the magnitude of the input airflow.

[0094] The clock calculation unit 112 is used to calculate the airflow signal based on the reference clock signal and the detection clock signal, and output the first state signal when the airflow signal is greater than the preset value; and output the second state signal when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value.

[0095] The correlation between the detection clock signal and the magnitude of the input airflow can refer to the correlation between the frequency of the detection clock signal and the magnitude of the input airflow. In some embodiments, the clock signal can be generated by an oscillator. By associating the capacitance of the oscillator with the magnitude of the input airflow, the frequency of the detection clock signal can be correlated with the magnitude of the input airflow. This method is simple and easy to implement, and the frequency of the clock signal is sensitive to changes in the magnitude of the input airflow, which is beneficial to improving the detection accuracy of the airflow sensor.

[0096] In other embodiments, the correlation between the detection clock signal and the magnitude of the input airflow may also refer to the correlation between the amplitude of the detection clock signal and the magnitude of the input airflow, which is not limited in this specification.

[0097] Some implementations provide feasible methods for calculating airflow signals, still referencing Figure 7 The reference clock signal includes an initial reference clock signal and a current reference clock signal; the detection clock signal includes an initial clock signal and a current clock signal.

[0098] The clock generation unit 111 includes: a reference clock unit and a clock detection unit; wherein...

[0099] The reference clock unit is used to generate an initial reference clock signal in the initial state and a current reference clock signal in the current state;

[0100] The detection clock unit is used to generate an initial clock signal in the initial state and a current clock signal in the current state; the initial clock signal is related to the input airflow magnitude in the initial state, and the current clock signal is related to the input airflow magnitude in the current state.

[0101] The clock calculation unit 112 is specifically used to calculate the airflow signal based on the first frequency ratio and the second frequency ratio, and output the first state signal when the airflow signal is greater than the preset value;

[0102] The first frequency ratio includes the ratio of the frequency of the initial clock signal to the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, and the second frequency ratio includes the ratio of the frequency of the current clock signal to the frequency of the current reference clock signal.

[0103] In some implementations, the initial state and the current state can be different states of the electronic cigarette. For example, when the initial state is a non-inhalation state, the current state can be an inhalation state. When the initial state is an inhalation state, the current state can be a non-inhalation state. In other implementations, the current state can be the state of the electronic cigarette within the current time window. The initial state can be the state of the electronic cigarette within the previous time window. The size of the time window can be determined according to the actual situation, for example, it can be 5 seconds, 10 seconds, etc., and this specification does not limit it.

[0104] In one implementation, in the initial state, the reference clock unit and the detection clock unit generate an initial reference clock signal and an initial clock signal, respectively. In the current state, the reference clock unit and the detection clock unit generate a reference clock signal and a current clock signal, respectively. Because environmental parameters (e.g., temperature) differ between the initial and current states, the parameters (e.g., frequency) of the initial reference clock signal and the reference clock signal may also differ; similarly, the current clock signal and the initial clock signal may also be affected by environmental parameters under different states. Therefore, by using the ratio of the initial clock signal to the initial reference clock signal as a first frequency ratio and the ratio of the current clock signal to the current reference clock signal as a second frequency ratio, the influence of environmental parameters on the clock signal in both the initial and current states can be filtered out, which helps improve the accuracy of state determination.

[0105] In one embodiment of this specification, a feasible method for calculating an airflow signal is provided. Specifically, the clock calculation unit 112 calculates the airflow signal based on a first frequency ratio and a second frequency ratio, specifically for:

[0106] The airflow signal is obtained by substituting the frequency of the initial clock signal, the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, the frequency of the current clock signal, and the frequency of the current reference clock signal into a preset set of equations.

[0107] The preset set of equations includes: Among them, T 1ini The frequency of the initial clock signal, T 1inr T1 represents the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, T1 represents the frequency of the current clock signal, and T... 1ref A1 represents the frequency of the current reference clock signal, B1 represents the first frequency ratio, and M1 represents the airflow signal.

[0108] In the aforementioned set of preset equations, the ratio of the second frequency ratio to the first frequency ratio can accurately characterize the rate of change of the clock signal frequency between the current state and the initial state. Subtracting 1 from this ratio (B1 / A1) and expressing it as a percentage yields an airflow signal characterizing the input airflow magnitude in the current state, based on the input airflow magnitude in the initial state. This is beneficial for the airflow sensor to make accurate state judgments based on the airflow signal.

[0109] In one exemplary embodiment of this specification, a specific feasible configuration of the reference clock unit and the detection clock unit is provided, referring to... Figure 8 The reference clock unit 111A includes: a first current source A1, a first comparator Comp1, a first capacitor C1, and a first switching element Q1; wherein,

[0110] The first input terminal of the first comparator Comp1 is used to receive the first reference voltage Vref1, and the second input terminal of the first comparator Comp1 is electrically connected to the output terminal of the first current source A1, the first terminal of the first capacitor C1, and the first connection terminal of the first switching element Q1.

[0111] The output terminal of the first comparator Comp1 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the first switching element Q1;

[0112] The second connection terminal of the first switching element Q1 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the first capacitor C1 and the fixed potential point;

[0113] The first switching element Q1 is used to turn on the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal of the first switching element Q1 when the voltage difference between the control terminal and the second connection terminal of the first switching element Q1 meets the conduction condition.

[0114] The detection clock unit 111B includes: a second current source A2, a second comparator Comp2, a second capacitor C2, and a second switching element Q2; wherein,

[0115] The first input terminal of the second comparator Comp2 is used to receive the second reference voltage Vref2. The second input terminal of the second comparator Comp2 is electrically connected to the output terminal of the second current source A2, the first terminal of the second capacitor C2, and the first connection terminal of the second switching element Q2.

[0116] The output terminal of the second comparator Comp2 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the second switching element Q2;

[0117] The second terminal of the second switching element Q2 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the second capacitor C2 and the fixed potential point;

[0118] The second switching element Q2 is used to turn on the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal of the second switching element Q2 when the voltage difference between the control terminal and the second connection terminal of the second switching element Q2 meets the conduction condition;

[0119] The capacitance value of the second capacitor C2 is positively correlated with the magnitude of the input airflow.

[0120] The reference clock unit 111A and the detection clock unit 111B have similar structures and working principles. The difference is that the first capacitor C1 in the reference clock unit 111A is a fixed capacitor, while the second capacitor C2 in the detection clock unit 111B is a variable capacitor. The capacitance value of the second capacitor C2 is affected by the magnitude of the input airflow; specifically, the capacitance value of the second capacitor C2 can be positively correlated with the magnitude of the input airflow. For example, one of the capacitor plates of the second capacitor C2 can be a thin-film plate. When the magnitude of the input airflow changes, parameters such as the distance between the thin-film plate and the other substrate can change, thereby affecting the capacitance value. Figure 8 In the table, Clk1 and Clk2 represent the clock signals output by the reference clock unit 111A and the detection clock unit 111B, respectively.

[0121] The first switching element Q1 and the second switching element Q2 can be transistors, specifically, for example, MOS (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor) transistors or other elements with switching functions.

[0122] Taking the operation of reference clock unit 111A as an example, the generation process of clock signal is explained as follows: The voltage at the second input terminal of the first comparator Comp1 is equal to the voltage between the two plates of the first capacitor C1. When the voltage between the two plates of the first capacitor C1 is less than the first reference voltage Vref1, the first comparator Comp1 outputs the first level, and at this time the first switching element Q1 is turned off. As the first current source A1 continuously charges the first capacitor C1, the voltage between the two plates of the first capacitor C1 gradually increases until it is greater than the first reference voltage Vref1. At this time, the first comparator Comp1 outputs the second level. The first level and the second level are high and low levels, respectively. Simultaneously, as the voltage across the first capacitor C1 increases, the voltage difference between the first and second terminals of the first switching element Q1 increases. When the potential at the control terminal of the first switching element Q1 and the potential between its first and second terminals satisfy the conduction condition, the first and second terminals of the first switching element Q1 conduct, causing the first capacitor C1 and the first switching element Q1 to form a discharge circuit. The two ends of the first capacitor C1 are short-circuited to a fixed potential point. After the first capacitor C1 has discharged completely, the first switching element Q1 returns to the off state, and the first comparator Comp1 repeats the above process. During one complete charge and discharge cycle of the first capacitor C1, the first comparator Comp1 generates a clock signal within one cycle. Optionally, the fixed potential point can be ground potential.

[0123] When the first switching element Q1 and the second switching element Q2 are MOSFETs, the control terminal can be the gate, the first connection terminal can be the drain, and the second connection terminal can be the source. The conduction condition can be Vgs (gate-source voltage) > 0 (N-type) or Vgs < 0 (P-type). The accuracy of the clock signals generated by the reference clock unit 111A and the detection clock unit 111B is related to the circuit structure of the comparators therein.

[0124] The reference clock unit and detection clock unit provided in this embodiment have simple circuit structures. When a high-precision detection circuit needs to be set in multiple detection circuits, the accuracy of the clock signal can be adjusted by adjusting the circuit structure of the comparators (first comparator and second comparator). It has the characteristics of being simple, easy to implement and convenient to design.

[0125] Exemplary methods

[0126] Based on the same concept, this specification also provides an airflow detection method applicable to electronic cigarettes, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the airflow detection method includes:

[0127] S901: If a first status signal is received that is greater than or equal to a preset number of outputs from the detection circuit 11, a response signal is output. The response signal is used to indicate that the electronic cigarette is inhaling. The first status signal is generated by the detection circuit 11 when it detects that the airflow signal representing the magnitude of the input airflow is greater than a preset value. It is a signal representing the inhalation state.

[0128] The airflow detection method can be executed by an airflow sensor, specifically by a processing module 20 within the airflow sensor. The processing module 20 may include analog circuitry and / or digital circuitry. This airflow detection method belongs to the same application concept as the airflow sensor provided in the above embodiments of this specification. Technical details not described in detail in this embodiment can be found in the specific processing content of the airflow sensor provided in the above embodiments of this application, and will not be repeated here.

[0129] In some embodiments, the detection circuit 11 is further configured to output a second state signal characterizing a non-inhalation state when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value;

[0130] The airflow detection method further includes: when at least one of the detection circuits 11 outputs the second state signal, outputting a stop signal, the stop signal being used to instruct the electronic cigarette to stop responding to the inhalation state.

[0131] In some embodiments, the airflow detection method further includes:

[0132] A reference clock signal and a detection clock signal are generated, wherein the detection clock signal is related to the magnitude of the input airflow;

[0133] The airflow signal is calculated based on the reference clock signal and the detection clock signal. When the airflow signal is greater than the preset value, the first state signal is output; when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value, the second state signal is output.

[0134] In some embodiments, the reference clock signal includes: an initial reference clock signal and a current reference clock signal; the detection clock signal includes: an initial clock signal and a current clock signal;

[0135] The calculation of the airflow signal based on the reference clock signal and the detection clock signal includes:

[0136] Generate the initial reference clock signal in the initial state and the current reference clock signal in the current state;

[0137] Generate an initial clock signal in the initial state and a current clock signal in the current state; the initial clock signal is related to the input airflow magnitude in the initial state, and the current clock signal is related to the input airflow magnitude in the current state;

[0138] The airflow signal is calculated based on the first frequency ratio and the second frequency ratio, and the first state signal is output when the airflow signal is greater than the preset value.

[0139] The first frequency ratio includes the ratio of the frequency of the initial clock signal to the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, and the second frequency ratio includes the ratio of the frequency of the current clock signal to the frequency of the current reference clock signal.

[0140] In some embodiments, calculating the airflow signal based on a first frequency ratio and a second frequency ratio includes:

[0141] The airflow signal is obtained by substituting the frequency of the initial clock signal, the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, the frequency of the current clock signal, and the frequency of the current reference clock signal into a preset set of equations.

[0142] The preset set of equations includes: Among them, T 1ini The frequency of the initial clock signal, T 1inr T1 represents the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, T1 represents the frequency of the current clock signal, and T... 1ref A1 represents the frequency of the current reference clock signal, B1 represents the first frequency ratio, and M1 represents the airflow signal.

[0143] In some embodiments, the plurality of detection circuits 11 include: a first detection circuit 11A and a second detection circuit 11B; wherein,

[0144] The detection accuracy of the first detection circuit 11A is greater than that of the second detection circuit 11B;

[0145] If a first state signal is received from a number of detection circuits 11 that are greater than or equal to a preset number, a response signal is output, including:

[0146] When both the first detection circuit 11A and the second detection circuit 11B output the first status signal, the response signal is output.

[0147] In some embodiments, the first detection circuit 11A is further configured to output a second state signal characterizing a non-inhalation state when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value;

[0148] The airflow detection method further includes: when the first detection circuit 11A outputs a second state signal, outputting a stop signal; the stop signal is used to indicate that the electronic cigarette stops responding to the inhalation state.

[0149] Exemplary devices, electronic cigarettes, electronic devices, storage media, and program products

[0150] Accordingly, this specification also provides an electronic cigarette, which may include an airflow sensor as described in any of the above embodiments and a controller connected to the airflow sensor. The controller is used to respond to the inhalation state based on the response signal output by the airflow sensor. In some embodiments, in addition to the airflow sensor and controller, the electronic cigarette may also include a battery, an LED indicator, a mouthpiece, etc. This specification will not elaborate on the structure and connection relationships of conventional electronic cigarette components such as batteries and mouthpieces.

[0151] Accordingly, this specification also provides an electronic device, see [link to documentation]. Figure 10 As shown, an exemplary embodiment of this specification also provides an electronic device 100, including: a memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program 1022, the processor executing the computer program 1022 to perform the steps in the airflow detection method according to various embodiments of this specification described in the above embodiments.

[0152] The internal structure of the electronic device 100 can be as follows: Figure 10 As shown, the electronic device 100 includes a processor, a memory, a network interface 104, and an input device 105 connected via a system bus 106. The processor of the electronic device 100 provides computing and control capabilities. The memory of the electronic device 100 includes a non-volatile storage medium 102 and internal memory 103. The non-volatile storage medium 102 stores an operating system 1021 and a computer program 1022. The internal memory 103 provides an environment for the operation of the operating system 1021 and the computer program 1022 stored in the non-volatile storage medium 102. The network interface 104 of the electronic device 100 is used for communication with external terminals via a network connection. When the computer program 1022 is executed by the processor, it follows the steps of the airflow detection method according to various embodiments of this specification as described in the above embodiments.

[0153] The processor may include the main processor, as well as baseband chips, modems, etc.

[0154] The memory stores a program that executes the technical solution of this invention, and may also store an operating system 1021 and other key business functions. Specifically, the program may include program code, which includes computer operation instructions. More specifically, the memory may include read-only memory (ROM), other types of static storage devices capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM), other types of dynamic storage devices capable of storing information and instructions, disk storage, flash memory, etc.

[0155] The processor can be a general-purpose processor, such as a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, etc., or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits used to control the execution of the program of the present invention. It can also be a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an off-the-shelf programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components.

[0156] Input devices may include devices that receive user input data and information, such as keyboards, mice, cameras, scanners, light pens, voice input devices 105, touch screens, pedometers, or gravity sensors.

[0157] Output devices may include devices that allow information to be output to the user, such as displays, printers, speakers, etc.

[0158] The communication interface may include any transceiver-like device for communicating with other devices or communication networks, such as Ethernet, Radio Access Network (RAN), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), etc.

[0159] The processor executes the program stored in the memory and calls other devices, which can be used to implement the various steps of any of the airflow detection methods provided in the above embodiments of this application.

[0160] The electronic device 100 may also include a display component and a voice component. The display component may be a liquid crystal display screen or an electronic ink display screen. The input device 105 of the electronic device 100 may be a touch layer covering the display component, or a button, trackball or touchpad provided on the casing of the electronic device 100, or an external keyboard, touchpad or mouse, etc.

[0161] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 10The structure shown is merely a block diagram of a portion of the structure related to the scheme described in this specification, and does not constitute a limitation on the electronic device 100 to which the scheme described in this specification is applied. The specific electronic device 100 may include more or fewer components than those shown in the figure, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0162] In addition to the methods and devices described above, the airflow detection method provided in the embodiments of this specification can also be a computer program product, which includes computer program instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the steps in the airflow detection method according to the various embodiments of this specification as described in the "Exemplary Methods" section above.

[0163] The computer program product described herein can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages ​​to perform the operations of the embodiments described herein. These programming languages ​​include object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java and C++, as well as conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as C or similar languages. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computing device, partially on the user's computing device, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computing device and partially on a remote computing device, or entirely on a remote computing device or server.

[0164] Furthermore, embodiments of this specification also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program being executed by a processor of the steps in the airflow detection methods according to various embodiments of this specification as described in the "Exemplary Methods" section above.

[0165] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the methods described above. Any references to memory, storage, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this specification can include non-volatile and / or volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in various forms, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), dual data rate SDRAM (DDRSDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), RAMbus direct RAM (RDRAM), direct memory bus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and RAMbus dynamic RAM (RDRAM), etc.

[0166] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0167] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods outlined in this specification. While the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the solutions provided in this specification. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this specification, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this specification. Therefore, the scope of protection for this patent should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An airflow sensor, characterized in that, Applied to electronic cigarettes, the airflow sensor includes: a detection circuit module and a processing module; wherein, The detection circuit module includes multiple sets of detection circuits. The detection circuits are used to detect airflow signals that characterize the magnitude of the input airflow. When the airflow signal is greater than a preset value, a first state signal that characterizes the inhalation state is output. The processing module is configured to output a response signal when a preset number of the detection circuits output the first state signal, the response signal being used to indicate that the electronic cigarette is responding to the inhalation state; the preset number is greater than or equal to two sets. The multiple detection circuits include: a first detection circuit and a second detection circuit; wherein... The detection accuracy of the first detection circuit is greater than that of the second detection circuit; The processing module is specifically used to output the response signal when both the first detection circuit and the second detection circuit output the first state signal.

2. The airflow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection circuit is also used to output a second state signal characterizing a non-inhalation state when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value; The processing module is further configured to output a stop signal when at least one of the detection circuits outputs the second state signal, the stop signal being used to instruct the electronic cigarette to stop responding to the inhalation state.

3. The airflow sensor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The detection circuit includes: a clock generation unit and a clock calculation unit; wherein... The clock generation unit is used to generate a reference clock signal and a detection clock signal, wherein the detection clock signal is related to the magnitude of the input airflow; The clock calculation unit is used to calculate the airflow signal based on the reference clock signal and the detection clock signal, and output the first state signal when the airflow signal is greater than the preset value; and output the second state signal when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value.

4. The airflow sensor according to claim 3, characterized in that, The reference clock signal includes an initial reference clock signal and a current reference clock signal; the detection clock signal includes an initial clock signal and a current clock signal. The clock generation unit includes: a reference clock unit and a clock detection unit; wherein... The reference clock unit is used to generate an initial reference clock signal in the initial state and a current reference clock signal in the current state; The detection clock unit is used to generate an initial clock signal in the initial state and a current clock signal in the current state; the initial clock signal is related to the input airflow magnitude in the initial state, and the current clock signal is related to the input airflow magnitude in the current state. The clock calculation unit is specifically used to calculate the airflow signal based on the first frequency ratio and the second frequency ratio, and to output the first status signal when the airflow signal is greater than the preset value. The first frequency ratio includes the ratio of the frequency of the initial clock signal to the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, and the second frequency ratio includes the ratio of the frequency of the current clock signal to the frequency of the current reference clock signal.

5. The airflow sensor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The clock calculation unit is specifically used for: The airflow signal is obtained by substituting the frequency of the initial clock signal, the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, the frequency of the current clock signal, and the frequency of the current reference clock signal into a preset set of equations. The preset set of equations includes: ;in, Indicates the frequency of the initial clock signal, Indicates the frequency of the initial reference clock signal, Indicates the frequency of the current clock signal, Indicates the frequency of the current reference clock signal, Indicates the first frequency ratio, Indicates the second frequency ratio, This indicates the airflow signal.

6. The airflow sensor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reference clock unit includes: a first current source, a first comparator, a first capacitor, and a first switching element; wherein, The first input terminal of the first comparator is used to receive the first reference voltage, and the second input terminal of the first comparator is electrically connected to the output terminal of the first current source, the first terminal of the first capacitor, and the first connection terminal of the first switching element. The output terminal of the first comparator is electrically connected to the control terminal of the first switching element; The second connection terminal of the first switching element is electrically connected to the second terminal of the first capacitor and the fixed potential point; The first switching element is used to turn on the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal of the first switching element when the voltage difference between the control terminal and the second connection terminal of the first switching element meets the conduction condition. The detection clock unit includes: a second current source, a second comparator, a second capacitor, and a second switching element; wherein, The first input terminal of the second comparator is used to receive the second reference voltage, and the second input terminal of the second comparator is electrically connected to the output terminal of the second current source, the first terminal of the second capacitor, and the first connection terminal of the second switching element. The output terminal of the second comparator is electrically connected to the control terminal of the second switching element; The second connection terminal of the second switching element is electrically connected to the second terminal of the second capacitor and the fixed potential point; The second switching element is used to turn on the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal of the second switching element when the voltage difference between the control terminal and the second connection terminal of the second switching element meets the conduction condition; The capacitance value of the second capacitor is positively correlated with the magnitude of the input airflow.

7. The airflow sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first detection circuit is also configured to output a second state signal characterizing a non-inhalation state when the airflow signal is less than or equal to the preset value; The processing module is further configured to output a stop signal when the first detection circuit outputs a second state signal; the stop signal is used to instruct the electronic cigarette to stop responding to the inhalation state.

8. An airflow detection method, characterized in that, The airflow detection method, applied to electronic cigarettes, includes: If a first status signal is received from a detection circuit of a preset number or more, a response signal is output; the preset number is greater than or equal to two sets. The response signal is used to indicate the electronic cigarette's response to inhalation status; The first state signal is a signal representing the inhalation state generated by the detection circuit when it detects an airflow signal, which characterizes the magnitude of the input airflow, that is greater than a preset value. When multiple detection circuits include a first detection circuit and a second detection circuit, and the detection accuracy of the first detection circuit is greater than that of the second detection circuit, the response signal is output when both the first detection circuit and the second detection circuit output the first state signal.

9. An electronic cigarette, characterized in that, include: The airflow sensor as described in any one of claims 1 to 7; A controller, connected to the airflow sensor, is used to respond to the inhalation state based on the response signal output by the airflow sensor.

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