Airway structure and aerosol generating device

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of aerosol generating devices, and discloses an air passage structure and an aerosol generating device. According to the air passage structure provided by the invention, the flow guide surface is arranged between the inlet of the main air passage and the confluence cavity, and the flow guide surface is gradually shrunk, so that air flow can smoothly enter the main air passage through the flow guide surface after being converged in the confluence cavity and changing the flow direction, and the converged air flow is prevented from directly impacting a sharp edge or a right-angle turning area in an original structure; and the phenomena of airflow separation, violent vortex and flow velocity sudden change caused by sudden airflow blocking and sudden direction change are improved, so that the aerodynamic noise is reduced. Meanwhile, due to the gradual shrinking design of the flow guide face, airflow can stably enter the main air channel in an accelerated mode, flow resistance and energy loss are reduced, suction resistance is reduced, and the suction smoothness degree of a user is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of aerosol technology, specifically to airway structure and aerosol generating device. Background Technology

[0002] As a substitute for traditional tobacco, electronic cigarettes generate aerosols through heating and atomization using an aerosol generator, avoiding the harmful substances produced during combustion. While reducing health hazards, they also provide a diverse user experience, and are therefore widely used.

[0003] In existing electronic cigarette structures, air passages are typically installed internally for airflow. After the airflow enters the manifold through the air inlet, it often needs to change direction and undergo a certain angle of deflection before entering the downstream main air passage for further delivery.

[0004] However, in actual use, it was found that when the airflow turns within the manifold and enters the main airway, especially at the connection between the manifold and the main airway, the airflow impacts the edges, right angles, or acute angles of the inner wall of the airway, causing airflow separation, eddies, and sudden changes in flow velocity. This process not only generates aerodynamic noise but also produces a certain amount of suction resistance, seriously affecting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides an airway structure and an aerosol generator to solve the problems of aerodynamic noise and suction resistance in traditional aerosol generators.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an airway structure comprising a manifold and a main airway. The manifold is provided with at least one air inlet; the main airway communicates with the manifold and is located downstream of the manifold; wherein a guide surface is provided on the wall surface at the connection between the manifold and the main airway, and the flow area of ​​the flow channel formed by the guide surface gradually decreases along a direction away from the inlet of the main airway, the guide surface being used to guide the airflow entering from the air inlet and converging within the manifold to the interior of the main airway.

[0007] Beneficial effects: By incorporating a guide surface between the main airway inlet and the manifold, and gradually narrowing this surface, the airflow, after converging and changing direction within the manifold, can smoothly enter the main airway through the guide surface. This avoids the merged airflow directly impacting sharp edges or right-angle bends in the original structure, mitigating airflow separation, violent eddies, and sudden velocity changes caused by sudden airflow obstruction or abrupt changes in direction, thereby reducing aerodynamic noise. Simultaneously, the gradually narrowing design of the guide surface helps accelerate the smooth entry of airflow into the main airway, reducing flow resistance and energy loss, lowering suction resistance, and improving the user's suction smoothness.

[0008] In one optional embodiment, the axial direction of the main air passage has a preset angle with the axial direction of the air inlet; the guide surface is an arc surface that is concave towards the confluence cavity.

[0009] Beneficial effects: By setting the guide surface as a concave arc surface into the confluence cavity, a continuous and smooth turning profile can be provided for the airflow. This allows the airflow to transition naturally along the curved surface when entering the main air passage from the confluence cavity, reducing kinetic energy loss caused by abrupt changes in direction and helping to reduce pressure loss caused by flow separation. At the same time, compared to right-angle turns, the concave arc surface can reduce the intensity of vortex formation, thereby suppressing turbulent noise.

[0010] In one alternative implementation, the guide surface is arranged around the main airway inlet.

[0011] Beneficial effects: By setting the guide surface to surround the main airway inlet, a 360-degree continuous and smooth transition can be formed at the connection and transition between the manifold and the main airway, thus forming a continuous and smooth guiding path. It can wrap around the main airway inlet from all radial directions, ensuring that the airflow can achieve a smooth transition on the entire circumferential interface from the manifold to the main airway, further reducing aerodynamic noise points caused by local flow separation, thereby improving the noise reduction effect.

[0012] In one optional embodiment, the radius of curvature of the guide surface is R, in mm, and the radius of the main airway is Rg, in mm; the range of the ratio of R to Rg is: 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.47.

[0013] Beneficial effects: When R / Rg≥0.12, rounded corners are set, which reduces sharp corners compared to right angles, thereby reducing noise generated by eddies and airflow impact. When R / Rg reaches 0.47, the effects of noise reduction and resistance reduction tend to level off, and may even fluctuate slightly. While meeting the noise reduction requirements, it avoids the phenomenon of waste of structural space, increased material, and increased process complexity caused by excessive curvature radius.

[0014] In one optional implementation, the ratio of R to Rg is in the range of 0.12 ≤ R / Rg ≤ 0.35.

[0015] Beneficial effects: By reducing the range of the R / Rg ratio to 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.35, the radial encroachment space of the guide surface is controlled within a reasonable range while efficiently guiding the airflow. This avoids excessive compression of the layout space of adjacent functional modules such as the atomizing chamber, oil circuit, or circuit, which helps to maintain the miniaturization of the product.

[0016] In one optional implementation, the ratio of R to Rg is in the range of 0.12 ≤ R / Rg ≤ 0.23.

[0017] Beneficial effects: By further narrowing the range of the R / Rg ratio to 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.23, the performance improvement (noise reduction, drag reduction) obtained by each unit increase in chamfer size can be made most effective, maximizing the benefits of noise reduction and drag reduction performance, further optimizing internal space, and helping to further improve the overall integration.

[0018] In one optional embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the guide surface is in the range of 0.25mm≤R≤1mm.

[0019] Beneficial effects: By rounding the originally sharp edges with R≥0.25mm, the source of discrete vortex shedding and high-frequency whistling that are most likely to occur when airflow impacts is eliminated. Furthermore, by covering a wide optimization range with R≤1mm, the product will not excessively encroach on the space of adjacent functional areas, which is conducive to maintaining the product's slim design.

[0020] In one optional embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the guide surface is in the range of 0.25mm≤R≤0.75mm.

[0021] Beneficial effects: By limiting the range of the curvature radius of the guide surface to 0.25mm≤R≤0.75, the corresponding R / Rg ratio falls within the range of 0.12 to 0.35, making the noise reduction and drag reduction effects more reliable.

[0022] In one optional embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the guide surface is in the range of 0.25mm≤R≤0.5mm.

[0023] Beneficial effects: By further narrowing the range of R to 0.25mm≤R≤0.5mm, the corresponding R / Rg ratio falls within the range of 0.12 to 0.23, resulting in the most significant improvement in noise reduction and drag reduction, and achieving higher gains in noise reduction and drag reduction performance.

[0024] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides an aerosol generating apparatus, including the airway structure provided in the first aspect.

[0025] Beneficial effects: Since the aerosol generator includes an airway structure, it has the same effect as the airway structure, which will not be elaborated here. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a front view of the airway structure; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of part A in the middle; Figure 3 This is a pressure cloud map of the original airway. Figure 4 This is a turbulent kinetic energy cloud map of the original airway; Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional velocity contour map of the original airway; Figure 6 The original airway dipole noise sound power level contour map; Figure 7 The pressure cloud map shows the inlet pressure of the original airway (top right) and the outlet pressure cloud map (bottom right). Figure 8 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a fully open intake condition and the radius of curvature R = 0.25 mm. Figure 9 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a fully open intake condition and the radius of curvature R = 0.5 mm. Figure 10 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a fully open intake condition and the radius of curvature R = 0.75 mm. Figure 11 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a fully open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=1mm. Figure 12 This is a pressure contour diagram when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0mm. Figure 13 This is a turbulent kinetic energy cloud diagram when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0mm. Figure 14 The velocity streamline diagram of the cross section when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0mm; Figure 15 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0mm. Figure 16The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition and the radius of curvature R = 0.25 mm. Figure 17 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0.5mm. Figure 18 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition and the radius of curvature R = 0.75 mm. Figure 19 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=1mm. Figure 20 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in 1 / 4 open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0mm. Figure 21 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in 1 / 4 open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0.25mm. Figure 22 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in 1 / 4 open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0.5mm. Figure 23 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in 1 / 4 open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=0.75mm. Figure 24 The image shows the dipole noise power level contour plot when the air intake structure is in 1 / 4 open intake condition and the radius of curvature R=1mm. Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram showing the maximum noise power level of the air intake structure as a function of the chamfer radius under fully open intake conditions. Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram showing how the suction resistance changes with the chamfer radius under fully open intake conditions. Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram showing the maximum noise power level of the air intake structure as a function of the chamfer radius under semi-open intake conditions. Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram showing how the suction resistance changes with the chamfer radius when the air intake structure is in a semi-open intake condition. Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram showing the maximum noise power level as a function of the chamfer radius under 1 / 4 open intake conditions. Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram showing the variation of suction resistance with chamfer radius under 1 / 4 open intake conditions. Figure 31 This is a schematic diagram showing the variation of the maximum sound power level of the airway structure with the chamfer radius; Figure 32This is a schematic diagram showing the percentage of maximum sound power level of the airway structure as a function of the chamfer radius. Figure 33 This is a schematic diagram showing how the suction resistance of the airway structure varies with the chamfer radius; Figure 34 This is a schematic diagram showing the percentage change in the suction resistance difference of the airway structure with the chamfer radius.

[0028] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Manifold; 2. Air inlet; 3. Main air passage; 31. Inlet; 4. Guide surface; 5. Air outlet. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0030] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0031] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0032] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of the present invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0033] As a substitute for traditional tobacco, electronic cigarettes generate aerosols through heating and atomization using an aerosol generator, avoiding the harmful substances produced during combustion. While reducing health hazards, they also provide a diverse user experience, and are therefore widely used.

[0034] In existing electronic cigarette structures, air passages are typically provided inside for airflow.

[0035] After the airflow enters the manifold through the air inlet, it often needs to change direction and turn at a certain angle before it can enter the downstream main air passage to continue transporting air.

[0036] However, in actual use, it has been found that when the airflow turns within the manifold and enters the main airway, especially at the connection between the manifold and the main airway, the airflow impacts the edges, right angles, or acute angles of the inner wall of the airway, causing airflow separation, eddies, and sudden changes in flow velocity. This process not only generates aerodynamic noise but also seriously affects the user experience.

[0037] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 34 The following describes embodiments of the present invention.

[0038] In a first aspect, the airway structure provided by the present invention is formed inside the shell.

[0039] Specifically, the airway structure includes a manifold 1 and a main airway 3. The manifold 1 serves as a transition cavity in the airway structure, receiving and gathering the airflow flowing in from the inlet 2, so that the airflow direction is adjusted before entering the main airway 3.

[0040] The manifold 1 is provided with at least one air inlet 2 spaced apart. The air inlet is connected to an independent atomization or air source area, which is used to guide external air or atomized aerosol into the manifold 1 in a separate and spaced manner.

[0041] The main air passage 3 is connected to the manifold 1 and is used to receive the mixed airflow that turns from the manifold 1, and to rectify it and deliver it to the user end (the air outlet chamber that is connected to the user's mouth inhalation part) in an orderly and stable manner.

[0042] Among them, a guide surface 4 is provided on the wall surface facing the direction of airflow at the connection between the confluence cavity 1 and the main air passage 3. Along the direction close to the inlet 31 of the main air passage 3, the flow area of ​​the flow channel formed by the guide surface 4 gradually decreases. The guide surface 4 is used to guide the airflow that enters from the air inlet 2 and merges in the confluence cavity 1 to the interior of the main air passage 3, so as to avoid airflow separation, violent eddies and sudden changes in flow velocity caused by the sudden impact of airflow on the structural wall.

[0043] With this configuration, by providing a guide surface 4 between the inlet 31 of the main air passage 3 and the confluence cavity 1, and gradually contracting the guide surface 4, when the airflow merges and changes direction in the confluence cavity 1, it can smoothly enter the main air passage 3 through the guide surface 4, avoiding the direct impact of the merged airflow on the sharp edges or right-angle turning areas in the original structure. This improves the airflow separation, violent eddies and sudden changes in flow velocity caused by sudden obstruction and change in direction of the airflow, thereby reducing aerodynamic noise.

[0044] Meanwhile, the tapered design of the guide surface 4 helps to accelerate the smooth entry of airflow into the main air passage 3, reduce flow resistance and energy loss, lower suction resistance, and improve the user's suction smoothness.

[0045] It should be noted that this embodiment does not specifically limit the number of air inlets 2. There can be one, two or more.

[0046] Preferably, such as Figure 1 As shown, there are two air inlets 2, which are respectively located on opposite sides of the inlet 31 of the main air duct 3.

[0047] As one implementation method, such as Figure 1 As shown, two air inlets 2 are respectively located on two opposite sides of the manifold 1. Of course, in other alternative embodiments, the two air inlets 2 are arranged at a distance from each other at the bottom of the manifold 1.

[0048] Furthermore, with two air inlets 2, the electronic cigarette has both single-electrode and dual-electrode operating modes. Specifically, the single-electrode mode includes: when electrode one and electrode two are energized, the left area works to generate heat and atomize; when electrode two and electrode three are energized, the right area works to generate heat and atomize; and the left and right sides alternately energized for intermittent heating and atomization. Similarly, the dual-electrode mode includes: electrode two connected to the negative terminal, and electrode one and electrode three both connected to the positive terminal, forming a parallel mode, with both sides working at full power to generate heat and atomize simultaneously; electrode two connected to the negative terminal, and electrode one and electrode three both connected to the positive terminal, forming a parallel mode, with the left area working at full power and the right area reaching 30%~60% power; electrode one and electrode three both connected to the positive terminal, forming a parallel mode, with the right area working at full power and the left area reaching 30%~60% power; and the above two modes alternating for intermittent heating and atomization.

[0049] It should be noted that the local flow path of the defined airflow includes, in sequence, the atomizing electrode, the air inlet 2, the confluence chamber 1, the main air passage 3, and the air outlet 5.

[0050] In any two positions, the direction relatively closer to the atomizing electrode is defined as the upstream direction. Similarly, the direction relatively away from the atomizing electrode is defined as the downstream direction.

[0051] Specifically, for the manifold 1 and the main air passage 3, the main air passage 3 is used to receive the airflow transmitted from the manifold 1. That is, the main air passage 3 is located downstream of the manifold 1.

[0052] In one embodiment, the axial direction of the main air passage 3 has a preset angle with the axial direction of the air inlet 2.

[0053] It should be noted that the specific construction of the guide surface 4 is not limited in this application.

[0054] In one embodiment, the guide surface 4 is composed of a circular arc surface or a straight surface.

[0055] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, the guide surface 4 is a concave arc surface towards the manifold 1, and the center of curvature is located outside the airway structure.

[0056] This design, by setting the guide surface 4 as a concave arc surface facing the confluence cavity 1, provides a continuous and smooth turning profile for the airflow. This allows the airflow to transition naturally along the curved surface when entering the main air passage 3 from the confluence cavity 1, reducing kinetic energy loss caused by abrupt changes in direction and helping to reduce pressure loss caused by flow separation. At the same time, compared to right-angle turns, the concave arc surface can reduce the intensity of vortex formation, thereby suppressing turbulent noise.

[0057] For example, the guide surface 4 is a straight surface that is inclined from the outlet of the manifold 1 toward the inlet 31 of the main air passage 3, so as to form a straight chamfer.

[0058] This design, compared to the traditional method of airflow directly impacting the sharp edges or right-angle turns of the original structure, creates a smooth transition area, allowing the airflow to make surface contact with the guide surface 4, thereby reducing turbulence intensity. Furthermore, compared to the arc-shaped guide surface 4, machining a straight inclined surface is easier or saves on mold manufacturing costs.

[0059] Of course, as another implementation, the guide surface 4 has a multi-segment structure. It can be directly constructed from multiple arc-shaped guide surfaces, or it can be constructed from multiple straight guide surfaces with different slopes, or it can be flexibly spliced ​​from at least one straight guide surface and at least one arc-shaped guide surface. It can be set as needed.

[0060] Preferably, in the above embodiment, the guide surface 4 is arranged around the inlet 31 of the main air passage 3.

[0061] This configuration, by setting the guide surface 4 to surround the inlet 31 of the main air duct 3, can form a 360-degree continuous and smooth transition at the connection and transition point between the confluence cavity 1 and the main air duct 3, thereby forming a continuous and smooth guiding path. It can wrap around the inlet 31 of the main air duct 3 from all radial directions, ensuring that the airflow can achieve a smooth transition on the entire circumferential interface from the confluence cavity 1 to the main air duct 3, further reducing aerodynamic noise points caused by local flow separation, thereby improving the noise reduction effect.

[0062] Of course, in other alternative implementations, the guide surface does not have to be a complete 360-degree annular structure, but can be set only in the key arc segment where the airflow impact is most intense and noise is most likely to be generated. For example, a guide surface with a large angle (such as 180°-270°) can be set in the front area corresponding to the airflow direction of the two air inlets 2, while the original structure is retained or a simpler transition structure is adopted in secondary areas such as the sides or back.

[0063] The numerical optimization process of the curvature radius R of the guide surface 4 and the radius Rg of the main air passage 3 is illustrated below.

[0064] Specifically, the optimization method includes the following steps: establishing a three-dimensional simulation model of the electronic cigarette air duct; dividing the model into meshes, and refining the mesh in the transition area connecting the manifold 1 and the main air duct 3; setting boundary conditions, setting the two air inlets 2 as pressure inlets 31, and setting the outlet of the air outlet 5 as a mass flow outlet.

[0065] It can be noted that when refining the grid in the transition area connecting the manifold 1 and the main air duct 3, a tetrahedral grid is used, the grid size is set to 0.0002m, the total number of grids is 1.815 million, and the air inlet 2, air outlet 5, etc. are named.

[0066] It can be explained that when setting boundary conditions, the k-ε turbulence model and wall function are used, the air inlet 2 is set as the pressure inlet 31, and the outlet of the air outlet 5 is set as the mass flow outlet to simulate user suction.

[0067] The total mass flow rate of the two air inlets 2 is set to 0.00013475 kg / s, the air density is 1.22 kg / m³, and the corresponding air flow rate is 55 ml / s.

[0068] In one embodiment, the optimization method further includes: calculating the flow field based on set boundary conditions, and calculating aerodynamic noise based on the flow field calculation results, to obtain, for example... Figure 3 The sound power level cloud map of the original airway is shown; and based on the sound power level cloud map, the high noise region with a sound power level higher than the preset threshold is identified. The high noise region corresponds to the inlet 31 of the main airway 3 (the vertical turning point of the main airway 3).

[0069] Similarly, it is also necessary to obtain the turbulent kinetic energy cloud image of the original airway, such as Figure 4 As shown, the maximum value of turbulent kinetic energy is identified at the inlet 31 of the main airway 3 (at the vertical bend of the airway).

[0070] Similarly, the original airway is sectioned to obtain a cross-section as shown in the figure. Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the maximum acceleration also occurs at the inlet 31 of the main air passage 3, where the velocity increases from 5.6 m / s to 11.2 m / s.

[0071] Similarly, it is also necessary to obtain the original airway dipole noise power level cloud map.

[0072] Specifically, such as Figure 6 As shown, the dipole noise source appears at inlet 31 of the main airway 3, further verifying the qualitative judgment of the original airway sound power level cloud map and turbulent kinetic energy cloud map.

[0073] The maximum sound power level of the dipole noise is 73.61 dB, and the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB is also mainly located at and near corners.

[0074] It should be noted that, according to the theory of aerodynamic noise, dipole noise plays a dominant role in the noise generation mechanism caused by the interaction between airflow and solid wall.

[0075] Therefore, the main airway inlet 31 was identified as the primary noise source.

[0076] In one embodiment, the optimization method further includes optimizing the chamfer values.

[0077] Specifically: Based on the above process of determining the main airway 3 inlet 31 as the main noise source, in order to reduce noise, the main airway 3 inlet 31 is designed with rounded corners using parametric design.

[0078] in, Figure 7 The pressure cloud diagrams of the original air inlet 2 and the outlet cross section of the air outlet 5 are shown. That is, the average pressure of the flow cross section of the air inlet 2 is -3.65 Pa, the average pressure of the flow cross section of the outlet 5 is -83.48 Pa, and the average suction resistance is -79.83 Pa.

[0079] It can be explained that multiple airway models with different radii of curvature R need to be generated, and flow field and aerodynamic noise simulations are performed on multiple airway models respectively to obtain the maximum sound power level data of each model under various intake conditions; the relationship between the maximum sound power level data and the ratio R / Rg of the radius of curvature R to the radius Rg of the main airway is analyzed, and the R / Rg ratio range is determined based on the analysis results.

[0080] This setup, by refining the mesh in the transition area between the manifold 1 and the main air duct 3 and setting boundary conditions (dual pressure inlet, mass flow outlet) that conform to the actual suction conditions, ensures that the simulation model can match the complex flow details and noise generation mechanisms in the real airflow confluence and turning process, making the simulation results close to the actual situation.

[0081] Furthermore, by combining sound power level cloud map analysis with rounded corner parameterized design, the high noise area (i.e., inlet 31 of the main air duct 3) can be identified intuitively and quantitatively through simulation, and the root cause of the problem can be accurately located.

[0082] Then, by parameterizing and generating models with different radii of curvature, and conducting batch simulations for comparison, the influence of the ratio R / Rg of the radius of curvature of the rounded corners on the noise reduction effect is systematically studied, forming a closed-loop process from noise source localization to parameter optimization.

[0083] Based on this, through simulation evaluation under various intake conditions, it is ensured that the determined optimization scheme (R / Rg ratio range) is effective under various specific conditions, thereby making the optimization results more reliable.

[0084] It can be explained that the steps of calculating the flow field based on the set boundary conditions, calculating aerodynamic noise based on the flow field calculation results, and obtaining the sound power level cloud map of the air passage specifically include: calculating the steady-state flow field and monitoring the residual curve until convergence; then, based on the steady-state flow field results, using the Broadband Noise Sources model to calculate aerodynamic noise and outputting the spatial distribution cloud map of the dipole noise sound power level.

[0085] Depend on Figures 3 to 7 It can be clearly seen that the high-noise region (dark area in the figure) with a sound power level greater than 50dB is concentrated at the bend of the inlet 31 of the main air duct 3. This accurately identifies the key structural feature that needs optimization: the sharp bend edge at the connection between the manifold 1 and the main air duct 3.

[0086] It can be explained that after performing flow field and aerodynamic noise simulations on multiple air passage models and obtaining the maximum sound power level data of each model under various intake conditions, a schematic diagram of the change of noise sound power level with chamfer radius corresponding to different intake conditions was drawn.

[0087] The numerical analysis process for different intake conditions and different radii of curvature is explained below.

[0088] I. The analysis process for different radii of curvature under fully open intake conditions and main intake duct radius Rg of 2.15mm includes: 1. When the radius of curvature R = 0.25 mm, R / Rg = 0.25 / 2.15 ≈ 0.12: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 8 As shown in the figure, the maximum sound power level of the dipole noise is 66.93 dB, which is 6.68 dB lower than the maximum sound power level without chamfering (73.61 dB). Meanwhile, the area of ​​the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB at R=0.25 mm is smaller than the area of ​​the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB without chamfering.

[0089] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, under the conditions of fully open air intake and radius of curvature R=0.25mm, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -3.64Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -70.8Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -67.16Pa.

[0090] Therefore, it can be seen that under the condition of fully open intake and curvature radius R=0.25mm, the noise and suction resistance are reduced compared to the original intake channel without chamfering.

[0091] 2. With a radius of curvature R = 0.5 mm, R / Rg = 0.5 / 2.15 ≈ 0.23: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 9 As shown in the figure, the maximum sound power level of the dipole noise is 65.07 dB, which is 8.54 dB lower than the maximum sound power level without chamfering (73.61 dB). Meanwhile, the area of ​​the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB at R=0.5 mm is smaller than the area of ​​the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB without chamfering.

[0092] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, under the conditions of fully open air intake and radius of curvature R=0.5mm, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -3.65Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -67.23Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -63.58Pa.

[0093] Therefore, it can be seen that under the condition of fully open intake and curvature radius R=0.5mm, both noise and suction resistance are reduced compared to the original intake channel without chamfering.

[0094] 3. With a radius of curvature R = 0.75 mm, R / Rg = 0.75 / 2.15 ≈ 0.35: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 10 As shown in the figure, the maximum sound power level of the dipole noise is 63.45 dB, which is 10.16 dB lower than the maximum sound power level without chamfering (73.61 dB). Meanwhile, the area of ​​the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB at R=0.75 mm is smaller than the area of ​​the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB without chamfering.

[0095] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, under the conditions of fully open air intake and radius of curvature R=0.75mm, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -3.63Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -66.03Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -62.4Pa.

[0096] Therefore, it can be seen that under the condition of fully open intake and curvature radius R=0.75mm, the noise and suction resistance are reduced compared to the original intake without chamfering.

[0097] 4. With a radius of curvature R = 1 mm, R / Rg = 1 / 2.15 ≈ 0.47: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 11 As shown in the figure, the maximum sound power level of the dipole noise is 63.05 dB, which is 10.56 dB lower than the maximum sound power level without chamfering (73.61 dB). Meanwhile, the area of ​​the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB at R=1 mm is smaller than the area of ​​the region with a sound power level greater than 50 dB without chamfering.

[0098] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, under the conditions of fully open air intake and radius of curvature R=1mm, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -3.64Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the outlet of the air outlet 5 is -65.27Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -61.63Pa.

[0099] Therefore, it can be seen that under the condition of fully open intake and curvature radius R=0.75mm, the noise and suction resistance are reduced compared to the original intake without chamfering.

[0100] like Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, under the fully open intake condition: the maximum noise power level of the intake duct varies with the chamfer radius. Combined with Table 1 below, it can be seen that the maximum noise power level and suction resistance tend to decrease with increasing chamfer radius.

[0101] Table 1 is a statistical table showing the maximum noise power level and suction resistance as a function of chamfer radius under fully open intake conditions.

[0102] Specifically, a chamfer of R=1mm (R / Rg=0.47) can reduce the maximum noise from 73.61dB (without chamfering) to 63.05dB, a noise reduction of 10.56dB, or 14.35%. The suction resistance is reduced from 79.83Pa (without chamfering) to 61.63Pa, a suction resistance reduction of 18.2Pa, or 22.8%.

[0103] II. The analysis process for different radii of curvature under the semi-open intake condition and with the main intake duct radius Rg of 2.15mm includes: 1. When the radius of curvature R = 0, i.e. without chamfering: Figures 12 to 14 The pressure cloud diagram, turbulent kinetic energy cloud diagram, and cross-sectional velocity streamline diagram obtained under the conditions of half-open intake and no chamfer are shown respectively.

[0104] Figure 15 The diagram shows the dipole noise power level contour plot under the half-open intake condition and without chamfering. As can be seen from the figure, the maximum value is 74.29 dB, which is 0.68 dB larger than that under the no-chamfer and fully open intake condition (73.61 dB).

[0105] The average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -14.46 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -93.05 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -78.59 Pa.

[0106] 2. Radius of curvature R = 0.25 mm, R / Rg = 0.25 / 2.15 ≈ 0.12: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 16 As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 68.28 dB, which is 1.35 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (66.93 dB) under the fully open intake condition and R=0.25 mm.

[0107] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -14.43 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -80.99 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -66.56 Pa.

[0108] 3. Radius of curvature R = 0.5 mm, R / Rg = 0.5 / 2.15 ≈ 0.23: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 17 As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 66.57 dB, which is 1.5 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (65.07 dB) under the fully open intake condition and R=0.5 mm.

[0109] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -14.44 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -77.39 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -62.95 Pa.

[0110] 4. Radius of curvature R = 0.75 mm, R / Rg = 0.75 / 2.15 ≈ 0.35: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 18As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 65.69 dB, which is 2.24 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (63.45 dB) under the fully open intake condition and R=0.75 mm.

[0111] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -14.44 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -76.15 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -61.71 Pa.

[0112] 5. Radius of curvature R = 1 mm, R / Rg = 1 / 2.15 ≈ 0.47: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 19 As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 66.56 dB, which is 3.51 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (63.05 dB) under the fully open intake condition and R=1 mm.

[0113] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -14.43 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -75.36 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -60.93 Pa.

[0114] like Figure 27 and Figure 28 As shown, under the semi-open intake condition: the maximum noise power level of the intake duct varies with the chamfer radius. Combined with Table 2 below, it can be seen that the maximum noise power level and suction resistance tend to decrease with increasing chamfer radius.

[0115] Table 2 is a statistical table showing the maximum noise power level and suction resistance as a function of chamfer radius under semi-open intake conditions.

[0116] For example, a chamfer of R=1mm (R / Rg=0.47) can reduce the maximum noise from 74.29dB (without chamfering) to 66.56dB, a noise reduction of 7.73dB, or 10.41%. The suction resistance is reduced from 78.59Pa (without chamfering) to 60.93Pa, a suction resistance reduction of 17.66Pa, or 22.47%.

[0117] III. The analysis process for different radii of curvature under 1 / 4 intake conditions and main intake duct radius Rg of 2.15mm includes: 1. When the radius of curvature R = 0, i.e. without chamfering: Figure 20The diagram illustrates the dipole noise power level contour plot under the half-open intake condition and without chamfering. As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 79.21 dB, which is 5.6 dB higher than that under the no-chamfer and fully open intake condition (73.61 dB) and 4.92 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level obtained under the no-chamfer and half-open intake condition (74.29 dB).

[0118] The average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -70.86 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -175.95 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -105.09 Pa.

[0119] 2. Radius of curvature R = 0.25 mm, R / Rg = 0.25 / 2.15 ≈ 0.12: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 21 As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 78.15 dB, which is 15.32 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (62.83 dB) under the fully open intake condition with R=0.25 mm, and 9.87 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (68.28 dB) under the half-open intake condition with R=0.25 mm.

[0120] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -70.9 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -161.76 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -90.86 Pa.

[0121] 3. Radius of curvature R = 0.5 mm, R / Rg = 0.5 / 2.15 ≈ 0.23: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 22 As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 79.19 dB, which is 13.12 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (65.07 dB) under the fully open intake condition with R=0.5 mm, and 11.62 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (66.57 dB) under the half-open intake condition with R=0.5 mm.

[0122] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -70.83 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -160.85 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -90.02 Pa.

[0123] 4. Radius of curvature R = 0.75 mm, R / Rg = 0.75 / 2.15 ≈ 0.35: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 23As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 78.21 dB, which is 14.76 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (63.45 dB) under the fully open intake condition with R=0.75 mm, and 12.52 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (65.69 dB) under the half-open intake condition with R=0.75 mm.

[0124] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -70.86 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -160.63 Pa. Therefore, the average suction resistance is -89.44 Pa.

[0125] 5. Radius of curvature R = 1 mm, R / Rg = 2.15 ≈ 0.47: Dipole noise power level such as Figure 24 As shown in the figure, the maximum dipole noise power level is 79.09 dB, which is 15.04 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (63.05 dB) under the fully open intake condition with R=1 mm, and 11.53 dB higher than the maximum dipole noise power level (66.56 dB) under the half-open intake condition with R=1 mm.

[0126] Meanwhile, when evaluating the suction resistance, the average pressure of the flow section of the air inlet 2 is -70.7 Pa, and the average pressure of the flow section of the air outlet 5 is -161.1 Pa, so the average suction resistance is -90.4 Pa.

[0127] For example Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown in Table 3, under the 1 / 4 open intake condition, the maximum noise power level of the intake duct varies with the chamfer radius. It can be seen from Table 3 that the maximum noise power level and suction resistance decrease sharply from R=0mm to chamfer R=0.25mm; while from chamfer R=0.25mm to R=1mm, an irregular trend emerges, but the overall trend is consistent with that when chamfer R=0.25mm.

[0128] Table 3 shows the statistical table of maximum noise power level and suction resistance as a function of chamfer radius under 1 / 4 intake opening conditions.

[0129] That is, in the step of analyzing the relationship between the maximum sound power level data and the ratio R / Rg of the radius of curvature R and the characteristic size Rg of the main airway 3, and determining the range of the R / Rg ratio based on the analysis results, it was found that: when R increases from 0 mm to 0.25 mm (R / Rg=0.12), the noise decreases significantly; when it increases from 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm (R / Rg=0.12-0.35), the noise continues to decrease but the trend slows down; when R exceeds 0.75 mm (R / Rg>0.35), the incremental noise reduction benefit becomes smaller.

[0130] Therefore, in one embodiment, the radius of curvature of the guide surface 4 is R, in mm, and the radius of the main air passage 3 is Rg, in mm; the range of the ratio of R to Rg is initially determined to be: 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.47.

[0131] This configuration, with R / Rg ≥ 0.12 and rounded corners, reduces sharp corners compared to right angles, thereby reducing noise generated by eddies and airflow impacts. When R / Rg reaches 0.47, the noise reduction and drag reduction effects tend to plateau, and may even fluctuate slightly. This ensures that the noise reduction effect meets the requirements while avoiding the waste of structural space, increased material usage, and increased process complexity caused by excessive curvature radius.

[0132] Depend on Figures 31 to 34 As shown, the maximum noise power level and suction resistance of fully open, half-open, and 1 / 4 open intakes are compared with the chamfer radius.

[0133] The figure shows that, for the same chamfer radius, the maximum noise power level and suction resistance are not significantly different between fully open and partially open intakes, with the difference in maximum noise power level being less than 5.57% and the difference in suction resistance being less than 1.55%. However, under the 1 / 4 open intake condition, the maximum noise power level and suction resistance of the intake duct increase significantly compared to fully open and partially open intakes, with maximum increases of 23.85% and 46.68%, respectively.

[0134] Among the three intake methods, reducing the maximum noise power level and suction resistance significantly from a chamfer of R=0 mm to R=0.5 mm. Reducing the maximum noise power level and suction resistance from a chamfer of R=0.5 mm to R=1 mm also generally shows a decreasing trend, but the rate of decrease slows down, especially under the 1 / 4 open intake condition.

[0135] Therefore, in order to significantly reduce aerodynamic noise under all three intake conditions while taking into account structural design margins, it is recommended that the chamfer R = 0.25mm-0.75mm (R / Rg = 0.12-0.35) be used in actual design.

[0136] That is, preferably, the range of the ratio of R to Rg is: 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.35.

[0137] By reducing the range of the R / Rg ratio to 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.35, the radial encroachment space of the guide surface 4 is controlled within a reasonable range while efficiently guiding the airflow. This avoids excessive compression of the layout space of adjacent functional modules such as the atomizing chamber, oil circuit, or circuit, which helps to maintain the miniaturization of the product.

[0138] Furthermore, the range of the ratio of R to Rg is: 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.23.

[0139] By further narrowing the range of the R / Rg ratio to 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.23, this setting ensures that the performance improvement (noise reduction and drag reduction) obtained by each additional unit size of chamfer is most effective, maximizing the benefits of noise reduction and drag reduction performance, further optimizing internal space, and helping to further improve the overall integration.

[0140] Similarly, taking the main air passage 3 with a radius of 2.15 mm as an example, the range of the curvature radius R of the guide surface 4 is: 0.25 mm ≤ R ≤ 1 mm.

[0141] This design, by rounding the originally sharp edges with R≥0.25mm, eliminates the source of discrete vortex shedding and high-frequency whistling that is most likely to occur when airflow impacts. Furthermore, by covering a wide optimization range with R≤1mm, it does not excessively encroach on the space of adjacent functional areas, which helps to maintain the product's slim design.

[0142] Preferably, the radius of curvature R of the guide surface 4 is in the range of 0.25mm≤R≤0.75mm.

[0143] With this setting, by limiting the range of the curvature radius of the guide surface 4 to 0.25mm≤R≤0.75, the corresponding R / Rg ratio falls within the range of 0.12 to 0.35, making the noise reduction and drag reduction effects more reliable.

[0144] Furthermore, the radius of curvature R of the guide surface 4 is in the range of 0.25mm≤R≤0.5mm.

[0145] With this setting, by further narrowing the range of R to 0.25mm≤R≤0.5mm, the corresponding R / Rg ratio falls within the range of 0.12 to 0.23, resulting in the most significant improvement in noise reduction and drag reduction effects, and achieving higher gains in noise reduction and drag reduction performance.

[0146] Similarly, as Figure 7The diagram illustrates how airflow resistance changes with the chamfer radius. For example, under three intake conditions, as the chamfer radius R increases from 0 mm to 1 mm, the airflow resistance decreases, and the rate of decrease gradually slows down.

[0147] It can be noted that when establishing a three-dimensional simulation model of the airway of the aerosol generator, it is necessary to accurately establish a three-dimensional geometric model of the airway of the aerosol generator, including the air inlet 2, the main airway 3, and the air outlet 5.

[0148] In one embodiment, any air inlet 2 is equipped with an air inlet valve for adjusting the air inlet opening.

[0149] This configuration, with an air intake valve at each air intake 2 for adjusting the air intake opening, allows users to flexibly choose from fully open, half open, or 1 / 4 open air intake modes according to their preferences for suction resistance, noise level, or different usage environments, thereby improving the level of human-computer interaction.

[0150] It can be explained that the air outlet chamber 5 is connected to the main air passage 3, and the flow area of ​​the air outlet chamber 5 gradually increases in the direction away from the inlet 31 of the main air passage 3.

[0151] This design, with an outlet chamber 5 downstream of the main air duct 3 whose flow area gradually increases along the airflow direction, forms a smooth and continuous gradually expanding channel. This allows the airflow to gradually slow down according to the principles of fluid mechanics, enabling the aerosol (atomized smoke) delivered from the main air duct 3 to be more fully mixed inside the outlet chamber 5. This results in stable and uniform delivery of atomized substances, helping users obtain a more consistent and smooth vaping experience.

[0152] Among them, the air outlet chamber 5 is located downstream of the main air passage 3.

[0153] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a second aspect also provides an aerosol generating apparatus, comprising the airway structure provided in the first aspect.

[0154] This setup is because the aerosol generator includes an airway structure, which has the same effect as the airway structure, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0155] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An airway structure, characterized in that, include: The manifold (1) has at least one air inlet (2) on it; The main airway (3) is connected to the manifold (1) and is located downstream of the manifold (1); Among them, a guide surface (4) is provided on the wall at the connection between the confluence cavity (1) and the main air passage (3). Along the direction away from the inlet (31) of the main air passage (3), the flow area of ​​the flow channel formed by the guide surface (4) gradually decreases. The guide surface (4) is used to guide the airflow that enters from the air inlet (2) and merges in the confluence cavity (1) to the interior of the main air passage (3).

2. The airway structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The axial direction of the main air passage (3) has a preset angle with the axial direction of the air inlet (2); the guide surface (4) is an arc surface that is recessed into the confluence cavity (1).

3. The airway structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The guide surface (4) is arranged around the inlet (31) of the main air passage (3).

4. The airway structure according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The radius of curvature of the guide surface (4) is R, in mm, and the radius of the main air passage (3) is Rg, in mm; the range of the ratio of R to Rg is: 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.

47.

5. The airway structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The range of the ratio of R to Rg is: 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.

35.

6. The airway structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The range of the ratio of R to Rg is: 0.12≤R / Rg≤0.

23.

7. The airway structure according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The radius of curvature R of the guide surface (4) is in the range of 0.25mm≤R≤1mm.

8. The airway structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The radius of curvature R of the guide surface (4) is in the range of 0.25mm≤R≤0.75mm.

9. The airway structure according to claim 8, characterized in that, The radius of curvature R of the guide surface (4) is in the range of 0.25mm≤R≤0.5mm.

10. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, The airway structure includes any one of claims 1-9.

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