Temperature control methods, devices, electronic devices, and electronic cigarettes for use in electronic cigarettes.

Abstract

This disclosure provides a temperature control method, apparatus, electronic device, and electronic cigarette for use in electronic cigarettes. The electronic cigarette includes a heating element and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the airflow surrounding the heating element. The temperature control method for the electronic cigarette includes: acquiring a temperature value measured by the temperature sensor in response to energizing the heating element; determining a first temperature change rate within a first time period and a second temperature change rate within a second time period after the first time period based on the temperature value; and controlling the heating power of the heating element based on the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of electronic cigarette technology. Specifically, it relates to a temperature control method, apparatus, electronic device, electronic cigarette, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product for electronic cigarettes. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic cigarettes are electronic products that simulate the taste of traditional cigarettes and can be used to aid in smoking cessation or as a substitute for cigarettes. For example, heated tobacco products heat the tobacco to release its aroma without burning it, thus avoiding the production of large amounts of tar and harmful substances. To ensure a good taste experience for users, the heating temperature of electronic cigarettes needs to be maintained within a certain range.

[0003] The methods described in this section are not necessarily methods that had been previously conceived or adopted. Unless otherwise specified, no method described in this section should be assumed to be prior art simply because it is included in this section. Similarly, unless otherwise specified, the issues mentioned in this section should not be considered to be accepted in any prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a temperature control method, apparatus, electronic device, electronic cigarette, non-transient computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product for electronic cigarettes.

[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a temperature control method for an electronic cigarette is provided. The electronic cigarette includes a heating element and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of airflow around the heating element. The method includes: acquiring a temperature value measured by the temperature sensor in response to energizing the heating element; determining a first temperature change rate during a first time period and a second temperature change rate during a second time period after the first time period based on the temperature value; and controlling the heating power of the heating element based on the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate.

[0006] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a temperature control device for an electronic cigarette is provided. The electronic cigarette includes a heating element and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the airflow around the heating element. The device includes: a temperature value acquisition unit configured to acquire a temperature value measured by the temperature sensor in response to energizing the heating element; a temperature change rate determination unit configured to determine a first temperature change rate within a first time period and a second temperature change rate within a second time period after the first time period based on the temperature value; and a heating control unit configured to control the heating power of the heating element based on the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate.

[0007] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and a memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the at least one processor, the instructions being executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the above-described temperature control method for electronic cigarettes.

[0008] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an electronic cigarette is provided, comprising: a heating element; a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the airflow around the heating element; and the aforementioned electronic device.

[0009] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores computer instructions for causing a computer to perform the above-described temperature control method for electronic cigarettes.

[0010] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the above-described temperature control method for electronic cigarettes.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, on the one hand, the airflow temperature around the heating element of the electronic cigarette can be precisely controlled, so that the temperature of the heated tobacco is maintained within the desired temperature range, which can avoid the rapid heating or cooling of the tobacco, thereby improving the taste of the tobacco for the user; on the other hand, since the temperature sensor can withstand the high temperature generated by the heating element, the problem of insufficient durability of electronic cigarette products caused by the use of airflow sensors is avoided.

[0012] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0013] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly described below. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without any creative effort. The drawings are as follows:

[0014] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0015] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0016] Figure 3A cross-sectional view of an electronic cigarette according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0017] Figure 4 A flowchart of a temperature control method for electronic cigarettes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figures 5A to 5E A graph showing the temperature change trend of an electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0019] Figures 6A to 6E A graph showing the temperature change trend of an electronic cigarette according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0020] Figure 7 A flowchart of a temperature control method for electronic cigarettes according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0021] Figure 8 A structural block diagram of a temperature control device for electronic cigarettes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this disclosure, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0023] It should be noted that all directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this disclosure are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.

[0024] In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal connection of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0025] In this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, all figures used in this specification and claims to represent component parameters, technical effects, etc., should in any instance be understood to be modified by the terms "approximately" or "roughly". Therefore, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters listed in the following specification and appended claims are approximate values. They will vary for those skilled in the art depending on the desired properties and effects sought to be obtained through this disclosure, and each numerical parameter should be interpreted according to the number of significant figures and conventional rounding methods or in a manner understood by those skilled in the art.

[0026] In this disclosure, the terminology used in the description of the various examples is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise, an element may be one or more unless the number of elements is specifically limited. Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure covers any one of the listed items and all possible combinations thereof.

[0027] As mentioned above, to ensure a good flavor experience when using e-cigarettes, the heating temperature needs to be maintained within a certain range. In related technologies, airflow sensors can be used to sense airflow (e.g., the flow rate or velocity) to control the activation and deactivation of the e-cigarette's heating element. However, this method only controls the activation and deactivation of the heating element, not its output power. This can lead to rapid heating or cooling of the e-liquid, resulting in a poor flavor. Furthermore, airflow sensors are typically not heat-resistant and are easily damaged by the hot air generated by the heating element, rendering the e-cigarette unusable.

[0028] In view of this, the present disclosure provides a temperature control method, apparatus, electronic device, electronic cigarette, non-transient computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product for electronic cigarettes. By utilizing a temperature sensor to obtain the airflow temperature around the heating element and controlling the heating power of the heating element according to the rate of temperature change at different times, on the one hand, the airflow temperature around the heating element can be precisely controlled, thereby maintaining the heated tobacco at a desired temperature range and avoiding rapid heating or cooling of the tobacco, thus improving the user's smoking experience; on the other hand, since the temperature sensor can withstand the high temperature generated by the heating element, the problem of insufficient durability of electronic cigarette products caused by using an airflow sensor is avoided.

[0029] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and Figure 3A cross-sectional view of an electronic cigarette according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0030] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the electronic cigarette 1 includes a heating device 100 and a receiving device 200. The receiving device 200 may have a receiving cavity 201 for containing tobacco. The heating device 100 is mounted to one end of the receiving device 200. Furthermore, the receiving device 200 also forms an exhaust channel 203. The receiving cavity 201 and the exhaust channel 203 are connected through an exhaust port 202. Hot airflow heated by the heating device 100 can be delivered to the receiving cavity 201 through the airflow outlet of the heating device 100. The hot airflow passes over the tobacco and heats it to form an aerosol, which enters the exhaust channel 203 through the exhaust port 202 and is then discharged. In this example, the smoke generated by subsequent heating can also be filtered by a water storage device before being inhaled by the user.

[0031] refer to Figure 2 or Figure 3 The heating device 100 includes a heating element 101. The heating device 100 may also include a housing 102, with a power connection port at one end communicating with its internal cavity, and an air outlet at the other end for discharging the aforementioned hot air. The heating element may be disposed in the internal cavity of the housing near the air outlet. The heating device 100 may also include a first electrode assembly and a second electrode assembly, electrically connected to a first end and a second end of the heating element, respectively, for guiding the electrical connection with the first and second ends of the heating element to the power connection port.

[0032] Continue to refer to Figure 2 or Figure 3 The electronic cigarette 1 also includes a temperature sensor 301 for measuring the temperature of the airflow surrounding the heating element 101. The temperature sensor 301 is disposed adjacent to the heating element 101. It will be understood that the temperature sensor 301 can be in contact with the heating element 101 or disposed with a certain space between it and the heating element 101, as long as the temperature sensor 301 can measure the temperature of the airflow surrounding the heating element 101. Figure 2 In the example shown, the temperature sensor 301 can be positioned upstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette; Figure 3 In the example shown, the temperature sensor 301 can be positioned downstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette.

[0033] Furthermore, it will be understood that the temperature sensor 301 can be disposed inside or outside the housing containing the heating element 101, as long as the temperature sensor 301 can promptly reflect the temperature of the airflow surrounding the heating element 101. Figure 2In the example shown, the temperature sensor 301 is positioned upstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette and is housed within the casing of the heating device 100; Figure 3 In the example shown, the temperature sensor 301 is positioned downstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette, and is located outside the housing of the heating device 100 and near the airflow outlet.

[0034] Temperature sensor 301 can be various types of temperature sensors, such as digital temperature sensors, logic output temperature sensors, and analog temperature sensors.

[0035] refer to Figure 2 or Figure 3 The diagram shows a temperature sensor 301. It is understood that multiple temperature sensors 301 can be configured.

[0036] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a temperature control method for electronic cigarettes is provided. Figure 4 A flowchart of a temperature control method 400 for electronic cigarettes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0037] like Figure 4 As shown, method 400 includes:

[0038] Step S410: In response to the power-on of the heating element 101, acquire the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor 301;

[0039] Step S420: Based on the temperature values, determine the first temperature change rate within the first time period and the second temperature change rate within the second time period following the first time period; and

[0040] Step S430: Control the heating power of the heating element 101 according to the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate.

[0041] In step S410, obtaining the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor 301 may include obtaining the temperature change curve measured by the temperature sensor 301 over a continuous period of time; or obtaining multiple temperature values ​​measured by the temperature sensor 301 at multiple discrete time points over a period of time.

[0042] In step S420, the duration of the first time period can be, for example, 0.1s, 0.2s, ... 1s, or other durations; and the duration of the second time period can be, for example, 0.1s, 0.2s, ... 1s, or other durations. Furthermore, the durations of the first and second time periods can be less than the duration of a single inhalation of the electronic cigarette by the user. In the example, the first time period can be from 0.1s to 0.2s, and the second time period can be from 0.3s to 0.4s.

[0043] The first rate of temperature change within the first time period can be the ratio of the temperature change value (e.g., the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures measured within the first time period) to the duration of the first time period; and the second rate of temperature change within the second time period can be the ratio of the temperature change value (e.g., the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures measured within the second time period) to the duration of the second time period. It will be understood that both the first and second rates of temperature change can be positive, negative, or zero, representing an increase, decrease, or no change in temperature.

[0044] In step S430, for example, the heating power of the heating element 101 can be controlled by comparing the magnitudes of the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate.

[0045] Therefore, by using a temperature sensor to obtain the airflow temperature around the heating element and controlling the heating power of the heating element according to the rate of temperature change at different times, the airflow temperature around the heating element can be precisely controlled, so that the temperature of the tobacco is maintained within the desired temperature range, avoiding rapid heating or cooling of the tobacco, thereby improving the user's taste of the tobacco; on the other hand, since the temperature sensor can withstand the high temperature generated by the heating element, the problem of insufficient durability of e-cigarette products caused by the use of airflow sensors is avoided.

[0046] According to some embodiments, the second time period may immediately follow the first time period. In an example, the first time period may be from 0.1s to 0.2s, and the second time period may be from 0.2s to 0.3s.

[0047] The following will refer to Figure 2 , Figures 5A to 5E The embodiments of this disclosure will be further described, wherein, Figures 5A to 5E A graph showing the temperature change trend of an electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0048] According to some embodiments, reference Figure 2 The temperature sensor 301 can be disposed upstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette, and the above step S430 may include: in response to the second temperature change rate being less than the first temperature change rate and determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, increasing the heating power of the heating element 101.

[0049] like Figure 2As shown, when the user inhales from the exhaust channel 203 side, the external cold airflow will enter the electronic cigarette 1 from the heating device 100 side. With the temperature sensor 301 positioned upstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette, the external cold airflow will first flow through the temperature sensor 301 and then through the heating element 101 for heating. Figures 5A to 5E Five different temperature change trends measured by the temperature sensor 301 when it is positioned upstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette are shown respectively. The horizontal axis represents time, the vertical axis represents temperature, the time period t1-t2 can indicate the first time period, and the time period t2-t3 can indicate the second time period after the first time period.

[0050] exist Figure 5A In the example, assuming that the heating element 101 is in a preheating state during the time period t1-t2, the determined temperature change rate a1 in the first time period t1-t2 can be 50℃ / s. When the temperature change rate a2 measured in the second time period t2-t3 is, for example, 30℃ / s, the second temperature change rate a2 is less than the first temperature change rate a1, and the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 (20℃ / s) is greater than a first threshold (e.g., 10℃ / s). In this case, it can be determined that a suction action occurred in the time period t2-t3 starting from time t2, because during suction, the external cold airflow rapidly flows through the temperature sensor 301 and the heating element 101, thereby carrying away some of the heat from the air around the heating element 101. As a result, the temperature change rate of the air around the heating element 101 measured by the temperature sensor 301 changes from the first time period t1-t2 to the second time period t2-t3 (the rate of temperature rise slows down). In this case, in order to ensure that the temperature of the heating element 101 remains constant, the heating power of the heating element 101 can be increased so that the temperature of the smoke material in the receiving cavity 201 is maintained within the desired temperature range.

[0051] Similarly, in Figure 5BIn the example, assuming that the heating element 101 is in a preheated state during time period t1-t2, the determined temperature change rate a1 during the first time period t1-t2 can be 50℃ / s. When the temperature change rate a2 measured during the second time period t2-t3 is, for example, 0℃ / s, the second temperature change rate a2 is less than the first temperature change rate a1, and the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 (50℃ / s) is greater than a first threshold (e.g., 10℃ / s). In this case, it can be determined that a suction action occurred during the time period t2-t3 starting from time t2, and the temperature change rate of the air around the heating element 101 measured by the temperature sensor 301 changed from the first time period t1-t2 to the second time period t2-t3 (the temperature rise rate slowed down to 0). In this case, in order to ensure that the temperature of the heating element 101 remains constant, the heating power of the heating element 101 can be increased so that the temperature of the smoke in the receiving cavity 201 is maintained within the desired temperature range.

[0052] Similarly, in Figure 5C In the example, assuming that the heating element 101 is in a preheated state during time period t1-t2, the determined temperature change rate a1 during the first time period t1-t2 can be 50℃ / s. When the temperature change rate a2 measured during the second time period t2-t3 is, for example, -30℃ / s, the second temperature change rate a2 is less than the first temperature change rate a1, and the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 (80℃ / s) is greater than a first threshold (e.g., 10℃ / s). In this case, it can be determined that a suction action occurred during the time period t2-t3 starting from time t2, and the temperature change rate of the air around the heating element 101 measured by the temperature sensor 301 changed from the first time period t1-t2 to the second time period t2-t3 (the temperature changed from an upward trend to a downward trend). In this case, in order to ensure that the temperature of the heating element 101 remains constant, the heating power of the heating element 101 can be increased so that the temperature of the smoke in the receiving cavity 201 is maintained within the desired temperature range.

[0053] Similarly, in Figure 5DIn the example, assuming that the heating element 101 is in a constant-temperature state during the time period t1-t2, the determined temperature change rate a1 in the first time period t1-t2 can be 0℃ / s. When the temperature change rate a2 measured in the second time period t2-t3 is, for example, -30℃ / s, the second temperature change rate a2 is less than the first temperature change rate a1, and the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 (30℃ / s) is greater than a first threshold (e.g., 10℃ / s). In this case, it can be determined that a suction action occurred in the time period t2-t3 starting from time t2, and the temperature change rate of the air around the heating element 101 measured by the temperature sensor 301 changed from the first time period t1-t2 to the second time period t2-t3 (the temperature changed from a constant temperature trend to a decreasing trend). In this case, in order to ensure that the temperature of the heating element 101 remains constant, the heating power of the heating element 101 can be increased so that the temperature of the smoke in the receiving cavity 201 is maintained within the desired temperature range.

[0054] Similarly, in Figure 5E In the example, assuming that the heating element 101 is in a suction cooling state during the time period t1-t2, the determined temperature change rate a1 in the first time period t1-t2 can be -30℃ / s. When the temperature change rate a2 measured in the second time period t2-t3 is, for example, -50℃ / s, the second temperature change rate a2 is less than the first temperature change rate a1, and the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 (20℃ / s) is greater than a first threshold (e.g., 10℃ / s). In this case, it can be determined that a suction action occurred in the time period t2-t3 starting from time t2, and the temperature change rate of the air around the heating element 101 measured by the temperature sensor 301 changed from the first time period t1-t2 to the second time period t2-t3 (the temperature decrease trend increased). In this case, in order to ensure that the temperature of the heating element 101 remains constant, the heating power of the heating element 101 can be increased so that the temperature of the smoke in the receiving cavity 201 is maintained within the desired temperature range.

[0055] It will be understood that the specific value of the first threshold can be set according to the type of tobacco or the type of e-cigarette.

[0056] The following will refer to Figure 3 , Figures 6A to 6E The embodiments of this disclosure will be further described, wherein, Figures 6A to 6E A graph showing the temperature change trend of an electronic cigarette according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0057] According to some embodiments, reference Figure 3The temperature sensor 301 can be disposed downstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette, and the above step S430 may include: in response to the second temperature change rate being greater than the first temperature change rate and determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, increasing the heating power of the heating element 101.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, when the user inhales from the exhaust channel 203 side, the external cold airflow will enter the electronic cigarette 1 from the heating device 100 side. With the temperature sensor 301 located downstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette, the external cold airflow will first enter the heating device 100 and be heated by the heating element 101, and then flow through the temperature sensor 301. Figures 6A to 6E Five different temperature change trends measured by the temperature sensor 301 when it is positioned downstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette are shown respectively. The horizontal axis represents time, the vertical axis represents temperature, the time period t1-t2 can indicate the first time period, and the time period t2-t3 can indicate the second time period after the first time period.

[0059] exist Figure 6A In the example, assuming that the heating element 101 is in a preheating state during the time period t1-t2, the determined temperature change rate a1 in the first time period t1-t2 can be 30℃ / s. When the temperature change rate a2 measured in the second time period t2-t3 is, for example, 50℃ / s, the second temperature change rate a2 is greater than the first temperature change rate a1, and the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 (20℃ / s) is greater than a first threshold (for example, 10℃ / s). In this case, it can be determined that a suction action occurred in the time period t2-t3 starting from time t2, because during suction, the heated air around the heating element 101 will flow rapidly through the temperature sensor 301. As a result, the temperature change rate of the air around the heating element 101 measured by the temperature sensor 301 changes from the first time period t1-t2 to the second time period t2-t3 (the rate of temperature rise increases). In this case, in order to ensure that the temperature of the heating element 101 remains constant, the heating power of the heating element 101 can be increased so that the temperature of the smoke material in the receiving cavity 201 is maintained within the desired temperature range.

[0060] Similarly, in Figure 6BIn the example, assuming that the heating element 101 is in a constant-temperature state during the time period t1-t2, the determined temperature change rate a1 in the first time period t1-t2 can be 0℃ / s. When the temperature change rate a2 measured in the second time period t2-t3 is, for example, 30℃ / s, the second temperature change rate a2 is greater than the first temperature change rate a1, and the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 (30℃ / s) is greater than a first threshold (e.g., 10℃ / s). In this case, it can be determined that a suction action occurred in the time period t2-t3 starting from time t2, and the temperature change rate of the air around the heating element 101 measured by the temperature sensor 301 changed from the first time period t1-t2 to the second time period t2-t3 (the temperature changed from a constant temperature trend to an upward trend). In this case, in order to ensure that the temperature of the heating element 101 remains constant, the heating power of the heating element 101 can be increased so that the temperature of the smoke in the receiving cavity 201 is maintained within the desired temperature range.

[0061] Figures 6C to 6E Three other different temperature change trends measured by the temperature sensor 301 when it is positioned downstream of the heating element 101 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette are shown, which will not be described in detail here.

[0062] It will be understood that the specific value of the first threshold can be set according to the type of tobacco or the type of e-cigarette.

[0063] According to some embodiments, in step S430, in response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, increasing the heating power of the heating element 101 may include: in response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than the first threshold, and that the temperature change trends indicated by the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate are opposite, increasing the heating power of the heating element 101 in a non-linear incremental manner.

[0064] For example, in Figure 5C or Figure 6C In the scenario shown, the opposite temperature change trends indicated by the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 mean that a large-scale suction action has occurred (e.g., a fast suction rate and a large suction volume). Therefore, by increasing the heating power of the heating element 101 in a non-linear increment, the process of heating the temperature to a suitable temperature can be further accelerated in the large-volume suction scenario.

[0065] According to some embodiments, in step S430, in response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, increasing the heating power of the heating element 101 may include: in response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than the first threshold, and that the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate indicate the same temperature change trend, increasing the heating power of the heating element 101 in a non-linear decreasing manner.

[0066] For example, in Figure 5A , Figure 5E or Figure 6A , Figure 6E In the scenario shown, the same temperature change trend indicated by the second temperature change rate a2 and the first temperature change rate a1 means that a small amount of suction has occurred (e.g., the suction rate is very slow and the suction volume is very small). Therefore, by increasing the heating power of the heating element 101 in a non-linear decreasing manner, the possibility of the temperature being heated too quickly can be reduced in the small-mouth suction scenario.

[0067] Furthermore, in, for example Figure 5B , Figure 5D or Figure 6B , Figure 6D In the scenario shown, if either the second temperature change rate a2 or the first temperature change rate a1 is zero, the heating power of the heating device 100 can be increased in a linearly increasing manner.

[0068] According to some embodiments, step S430 may include: in response to determining that the value of either the first temperature change rate or the second temperature change rate is positive and greater than a second threshold, reducing the heating power of the heating element 101.

[0069] Therefore, if either the first temperature change rate or the second temperature change rate is positive and greater than the second threshold (e.g., 60℃ / s), it indicates that the current temperature rise is too rapid. Such a rapid increase in temperature may cause excessive changes in the flavor of the tobacco, thus affecting the user's smoking experience. Therefore, by reducing the heating power of the heating element 101 in this situation, a rapid increase in temperature can be avoided, thereby making the flavor of the tobacco more mellow.

[0070] It will be understood that the specific value of the second threshold can be set according to the type of tobacco or the type of e-cigarette.

[0071] According to some embodiments, a first time period may include a plurality of discrete first sub-time periods, and a first temperature change rate is the average of the respective temperature change rates of the plurality of first sub-time periods; and a second time period may include a plurality of discrete second sub-time periods, and a second temperature change rate is the average of the respective temperature change rates of the plurality of second sub-time periods.

[0072] In the example, the first time period (e.g., 0-1.0s) can include five discrete sub-time periods (e.g., 0-0.1s, 0.2-0.3s, 0.4-0.5s, 0.6-0.7s, and 0.8-0.9s respectively). The rate of temperature change can be determined for each sub-time period, and then the average of the five sub-time periods' rates of temperature change is determined. Similarly, the second time period (e.g., 1.0-2.0s) can include five discrete sub-time periods (e.g., 1.0-1.1s, 1.2-1.3s, 1.4-1.5s, 1.6-1.7s, and 1.8-1.9s respectively). The rate of temperature change can be determined for each sub-time period, and then the average of the five sub-time periods' rates of temperature change is determined.

[0073] Figure 7 A flowchart of a temperature control method 700 for an electronic cigarette according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 As shown, method 700 includes steps S710 to S750, wherein steps S720 to S740 are respectively related to the steps mentioned above. Figure 4 Steps S410 to S430 are similar and will not be repeated here.

[0074] According to some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, method 700 may further include: step S710, in response to the heating element being energized, controlling the heating element to heat up at a constant power.

[0075] Therefore, by controlling the heating element 101 to heat up at a constant power, the rate of temperature change measured by the temperature sensor 301 at different times tends to be consistent when no suction occurs. However, when suction occurs, the rate of temperature change changes between different times. Thus, even if a small rate change occurs, the occurrence of suction can be accurately determined, thereby controlling the heating element 101 to increase the heating power in time, thereby further ensuring that the temperature of the heated tobacco is maintained within the desired temperature range.

[0076] According to some embodiments, continue to refer to Figure 7 Method 700 may further include: step S750, controlling the heating element to stop heating in response to a temperature value exceeding a third threshold. Thus, when excessively high temperatures are detected around the heating element 101, overheating of the smoke material can be avoided.

[0077] It will be understood that the specific value of the third threshold can be set according to the type of tobacco or e-cigarette. In the example, the third threshold could be 350°C, 400°C, or 750°C.

[0078] According to some embodiments, method 700 may further include: controlling the heating element to stop heating in response to the temperature value remaining constant within a predetermined time period. As described above, if the heating element 101 heats up at a constant power, the rate of temperature change measured by the temperature sensor 301 at different time periods tends to be consistent when no inhalation occurs. If the temperature measured by the temperature sensor remains substantially constant within the predetermined time period, it indicates that no inhalation has occurred within the predetermined time period, the heating element automatically stops heating, and the electronic cigarette is turned off. The predetermined time period is, for example, in the range of 3 to 30 minutes, such as being set to 3 minutes, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes.

[0079] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a temperature control device for an electronic cigarette is provided. The electronic cigarette includes a heating element and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the airflow around the heating element.

[0080] Figure 8 A structural block diagram of a temperature control device 800 for an electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0081] like Figure 8 As shown, the device 800 includes:

[0082] Temperature acquisition unit 810 is configured to acquire temperature value measured by temperature sensor in response to energizing heating element;

[0083] The temperature change rate determination unit 820 is configured to determine, based on temperature values, a first temperature change rate within a first time period and a second temperature change rate within a second time period following the first time period; and

[0084] The heating control unit 830 is configured to control the heating power of the heating element according to a first temperature change rate and a second temperature change rate.

[0085] It should be understood that Figure 8 Each unit of the device 800 shown can be connected to a reference. Figure 4 The steps in method 400 described correspond to each other. Therefore, the operations, features, and advantages described above for method 400 also apply to apparatus 800 and its constituent units. For the sake of brevity, some operations, features, and advantages will not be repeated here.

[0086] It should also be understood that this article can describe various technologies in the general context of software and hardware components or program modules. The above regarding... Figure 8The described units can be implemented in hardware or in hardware in combination with software and / or firmware. For example, these units can be implemented as computer program code / instructions configured to execute in one or more processors and stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Alternatively, these units can be implemented as hardware logic / circuit. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of units 810 to 830 can be implemented together in a System on Chip (SoC). The SoC may include an integrated circuit chip (which includes a processor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU), microcontroller, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), etc.), memory, one or more communication interfaces, and / or one or more components of other circuitry) and may optionally execute received program code and / or include embedded firmware to perform functions.

[0087] According to some embodiments, the temperature sensor is disposed upstream of the heating element along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette, and the heating control unit 830 can be further configured to: increase the heating power of the heating element in response to a second temperature change rate being less than a first temperature change rate and determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold.

[0088] According to some embodiments, the temperature sensor is disposed downstream of the heating element along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette, and the heating control unit 830 can be further configured to: increase the heating power of the heating element in response to a second temperature change rate being greater than a first temperature change rate and determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold.

[0089] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and a memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the at least one processor, the instructions being executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform a temperature control method for an electronic cigarette according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0090] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an electronic cigarette is provided, including: a heating element 101, a temperature sensor 301 for measuring the temperature of the airflow around the heating element 101; and the above-described electronic device according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0091] Electronic cigarettes include, but are not limited to, vaporized electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products (HNB), and hookahs.

[0092] According to some embodiments, such as Figure 2 or Figure 3 As shown, the electronic cigarette may also include a receiving cavity 201 for containing tobacco, the receiving cavity 201 being located downstream of the temperature sensor 301 along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette.

[0093] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided storing computer instructions for causing a computer to perform a temperature control method for an electronic cigarette according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0094] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements a temperature control method for electronic cigarettes according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0095] Various embodiments of the systems and techniques described above herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuit systems, integrated circuit systems, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific standard products (ASSPs), systems-on-a-chip (SoCs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various embodiments may include implementations in one or more computer programs that can be executed and / or interpreted on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be a dedicated or general-purpose programmable processor, capable of receiving data and instructions from a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device, and transmitting data and instructions to the storage system, the at least one input device, and the at least one output device.

[0096] The program code used to implement the methods of this disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. This program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, such that when executed by the processor or controller, the program code causes the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be implemented. The program code may be executed entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, as a standalone software package partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0097] The term "tobacco material" or "tobacco leaf" as used above refers to smoking substances, which are substances that can produce odor and / or nicotine and / or smoke when heated or burned. Tobacco material can be solid, semi-solid, or liquid. Solid tobacco material is often processed into thin sheets due to considerations of air permeability, assembly, and manufacturing, and is therefore commonly known as sheet tobacco; filamentous sheets are also called sheet tobacco. The tobacco material discussed in the embodiments of this disclosure can be natural or synthetic tobacco liquid, tobacco oil, tobacco gum, tobacco paste, shredded tobacco, tobacco leaf, etc. For example, synthetic tobacco material contains glycerin, propylene glycol, and nicotine. Tobacco liquid is liquid, tobacco oil is oily, tobacco gum is gel-like, tobacco paste is paste-like, shredded tobacco includes natural, artificial, or extracted tobacco shreds, and tobacco leaf includes natural, artificial, or extracted tobacco leaf. The tobacco can be heated while encapsulated in other substances, such as in heat-degradable packaging, like microcapsules, where the desired volatile substances are extracted from the degradable or porous encapsulated packaging after heating.

[0098] The aforementioned tobacco products may or may not contain nicotine. Nicotine-containing tobacco products may include at least one of the following: natural tobacco leaf products, e-liquid, e-oil, e-glue, e-paste, shredded tobacco, and tobacco leaves made from nicotine. E-liquid is water-based, e-oil is oil-based, e-glue is gel-based, e-paste is paste-based, shredded tobacco includes natural, artificial, or extracted / processed shredded tobacco, and tobacco leaves include natural, artificial, or extracted / processed tobacco leaves. Nicotine-free tobacco products primarily contain flavoring substances, such as fragrances, which can be atomized to simulate the smoking process and also serve purposes such as smoking cessation. In some embodiments, the fragrance includes peppermint oil. The tobacco products may also include other additives, such as glycerin and / or propylene glycol.

[0099] The above are merely embodiments or examples of this disclosure and do not limit the patent scope of this disclosure. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the concept of this disclosure and the content of this specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this disclosure. Various elements in the embodiments or examples may be omitted or replaced by equivalent elements. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in a different order than described in this disclosure. Further, various elements in the embodiments or examples may be combined in various ways. Importantly, as technology evolves, many elements described herein can be replaced by equivalent elements appearing after this disclosure.

Claims

1. A temperature control method for an electronic cigarette, the electronic cigarette comprising a heating element and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of airflow surrounding the heating element, the method comprising: In response to the heating element being energized, the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor is acquired; Based on the temperature value, determine the first temperature change rate within the first time period and the second temperature change rate within the second time period following the first time period; and The heating power of the heating element is controlled according to the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate. The temperature sensor is positioned upstream of the heating element along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette. Controlling the heating power of the heating element based on the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate includes: In response to the second temperature change rate being less than the first temperature change rate and determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, the heating power of the heating element is increased. The temperature sensor is positioned downstream of the heating element along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette. Controlling the heating power of the heating element based on the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate includes: In response to the second temperature change rate being greater than the first temperature change rate and determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, the heating power of the heating element is increased, wherein... In response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, increasing the heating power of the heating element includes: In response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, and that the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate indicate opposite temperature change trends, the heating power of the heating element is increased in a non-linear incremental manner; and In response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, and that the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate indicate the same temperature change trend, the heating power of the heating element is increased in a non-linear decreasing manner.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein controlling the heating power of the heating element according to the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate comprises: In response to determining that either the first temperature change rate or the second temperature change rate is positive and greater than a second threshold, the heating power of the heating element is reduced.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first time period includes multiple discrete first sub-time periods, and the first temperature change rate is the average of the temperature change rates of the multiple first sub-time periods. The second time period includes multiple discrete second sub-time periods, and the second temperature change rate is the average of the temperature change rates of the multiple second sub-time periods.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: In response to the heating element being energized, the heating element is controlled to heat up at a constant power.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: In response to the temperature value being greater than a third threshold, the heating element is controlled to stop heating.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The second time period immediately follows the first time period.

7. A temperature control device for an electronic cigarette, the electronic cigarette including a heating element and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the airflow around the heating element, the device comprising: A temperature value acquisition unit is configured to acquire the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor in response to the power supply of the heating element. The temperature change rate determination unit is configured to determine a first temperature change rate within a first time period and a second temperature change rate within a second time period after the first time period based on the temperature value. as well as The heating control unit is configured to control the heating power of the heating element based on the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate. The temperature sensor is positioned upstream of the heating element along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette. Controlling the heating power of the heating element based on the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate includes: In response to the second temperature change rate being less than the first temperature change rate and determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, the heating power of the heating element is increased. The temperature sensor is positioned downstream of the heating element along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette. Controlling the heating power of the heating element based on the first temperature change rate and the second temperature change rate includes: In response to the second temperature change rate being greater than the first temperature change rate and determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, the heating power of the heating element is increased. Furthermore, increasing the heating power of the heating element in response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold includes: In response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, and that the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate indicate opposite temperature change trends, the heating power of the heating element is increased in a non-linear incremental manner; and In response to determining that the absolute value of the difference between the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate is greater than a first threshold, and that the second temperature change rate and the first temperature change rate indicate the same temperature change trend, the heating power of the heating element is increased in a non-linear decreasing manner.

8. An electronic device, comprising: At least one processor; as well as A memory that is communicatively connected to the at least one processor; in The memory stores instructions that can be executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-6.

9. An electronic cigarette, comprising: Heating element; A temperature sensor used to measure the temperature of the airflow around the heating element; as well as The electronic device according to claim 8.

10. The electronic cigarette according to claim 9, further comprising: A receiving cavity for containing tobacco, the receiving cavity being located downstream of the temperature sensor along the airflow direction of the electronic cigarette.

11. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing a computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-6.

12. A computer program product comprising a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method according to any one of claims 1-6.

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