Induction heater for aerosol supply devices

Abstract

A method includes the step (101): driving the resonant circuit (14) of an induction heater (12) for an aerosol supply device at a determined resonant frequency in a heating mode. The induction heater (12) includes a switching circuit (13) and a resonant circuit (14). The induction heater (12) is used to heat a sensor (16). The method further includes the steps (102, 103): measuring the resonant frequency of the induction heater (12) during a sampling mode; and estimating the temperature of the sensor (13) based at least in part on the resonant frequency of the induction heater (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for operating an induction heater for an aerosol supply device and an apparatus for an aerosol supply device. The invention also relates to an aerosol supply device, an aerosol supply system, and a method for forming an aerosol generator for an aerosol supply device. Background Technology

[0002] Smoking products such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these tobacco-burning products by releasing compounds without combustion. Examples of such products are so-called "heated but not burned" products or tobacco heating devices or product materials that release compounds by heating a material without burning it. This material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] Aerosol supply systems covering the aforementioned devices or products are known. Common systems use a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, which is then inhaled by a user. Often, the medium used needs to be replaced or changed to provide different aerosols for inhalation. Induction heating systems are known to be used as heaters to generate aerosols from a suitable medium. Induction heating systems typically include a magnetic field generating device for generating a changing magnetic field, and a sensor or heating material that can be heated by penetrating the changing magnetic field to heat the suitable medium. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect, a method is provided, comprising: in a heating mode, driving a resonant circuit of an induction heater for an aerosol supply device at a determined resonant frequency of a resonant circuit, wherein the induction heater includes a switching circuit and a resonant circuit, and wherein the induction heater is used for a heating sensor; measuring the resonant frequency of the induction heater during a sampling mode; and estimating the temperature of the sensor based at least in part on the resonant frequency of the induction heater.

[0005] The method may include driving the resonant circuit at its resonant frequency (e.g., a determined or estimated resonant frequency) in a heating operation mode. The method may also include determining or estimating that resonant frequency.

[0006] The method may also include: measuring the ambient temperature near the induction heater; and estimating the temperature of the sensor based at least in part on the ambient temperature near the induction heater.

[0007] Estimating the temperature of the sensor may include determining the difference between a first measurement frequency and a second measurement frequency. Estimating the temperature of the sensor may also include multiplying the difference between the first and second measurement frequencies by a constant factor.

[0008] The first and second measurement frequencies can be measurements obtained at different times. Alternatively, the first and second measurement frequencies can be two consecutive frequency measurements.

[0009] The constant factor is proportional to the capacitance of the resonant circuit of the device.

[0010] The ambient temperature can be the temperature of the air surrounding the resonant circuit.

[0011] The method may also include applying a pulse to the resonant circuit in a sampling operation mode to generate a pulse response for estimating the temperature.

[0012] The method may include applying a pulse to a resonant circuit in a sampling operation mode to generate a pulse response for estimating temperature (which can then be used to set the sampling period or frequency).

[0013] The method may further include determining or estimating the difference between an estimated temperature of the sensor and a target temperature of the sensor, wherein the sensor is heated by an induction heater circuit including a switching circuit and a resonant circuit. The method may further include setting a sampling period or sampling frequency based at least in part on the difference, wherein the sampling period or sampling frequency defines the interval between successive sampling operation modes of the induction heater circuit.

[0014] The method may further include: shortening the sampling period when the difference between the estimated temperature and the target temperature decreases; or extending the sampling period when the difference between the estimated temperature and the target temperature increases.

[0015] According to another aspect, an apparatus for an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising: a resonant circuit including a sensing element and a capacitor, wherein the sensing element is used to sense a heating sensor; a drive circuit for applying a pulse to the resonant circuit, wherein one edge of the applied pulse induces a pulse response between the capacitor and the sensing element of the resonant circuit, wherein the pulse response has a resonant frequency; and a processor. The processor is configured to: measure the resonant frequency of the sensing heater during a sampling operation mode; and estimate the temperature of the sensor based at least in part on the resonant frequency of the sensing heater.

[0016] The processor may be further configured to determine or estimate the difference between an estimated temperature of the sensor and a target temperature of the sensor, wherein the sensor is heated by an induction heater circuit including a conversion circuit and a resonant circuit. The processor may be further configured to set a sampling period or sampling frequency based at least in part on the difference, wherein the sampling period or sampling frequency defines the interval between successive sampling operation modes of the induction heater circuit.

[0017] The processor can be further configured to shorten the sampling period when the difference between the estimated temperature and the target temperature decreases. The processor can also be configured to extend the sampling period when the difference between the estimated temperature and the target temperature increases.

[0018] The drive circuit can be configured to drive the resonant circuit at a defined resonant frequency in the heating operation mode. The drive circuit can be an H-bridge circuit.

[0019] According to another aspect, an aerosol supply device including the apparatus described above is provided.

[0020] The aerosol supply device may include a heated chamber for removably receiving articles containing aerosol-generating materials.

[0021] The sensing elements of multiple resonant circuits may be arranged along the sidewall of the heating chamber. The aerosol supply device may include at least four sensing elements arranged along the sidewall of the heating chamber. The aerosol supply device may include at least five sensing elements arranged along the sidewall of the heating chamber. The aerosol supply device may include a grid arrangement of sensing elements arranged along the sidewall of the heating chamber, such as a 2x4 grid or a 2x5 grid.

[0022] The sensing elements of multiple resonant circuits can be arranged along two side walls of the chamber. Alternatively, the sensing elements of multiple resonant circuits can be arranged along two opposite side walls of the chamber. The sensing elements can be arranged in two arrays, each array including at least four sensing elements. Or, the sensing elements can be arranged in two arrays, each array including five sensing elements.

[0023] The sensing element can be a planar coil. The sensing element can be a planar helical induction coil. The sensing element can be a planar non-helical induction coil. The induction coil can be substantially square. The induction coil can be substantially rectangular. The induction coil can be trapezoidal.

[0024] The sensing element can be mounted on a printable circuit board (PCB).

[0025] The aerosol supply device may include sensors disposed within a heated chamber. The aerosol supply device may include two or more sensor elements. The aerosol supply device may include multiple sensors, each associated with a corresponding sensing element.

[0026] The sensing element can be a spiral induction coil that surrounds the heating chamber; The aerosol supply device may include a power source. The power source may be aligned along the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber. Alternatively, the power source may be aligned along a second longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber.

[0027] The aerosol supply device may include a hinged door or a removable portion of the housing to allow access to the chamber, enabling the user to insert and / or remove aerosol-generated articles.

[0028] The aerosol supply device can be configured for wireless charging.

[0029] According to another aspect, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: an aerosol supply device as described above; and an article comprising aerosol generating material.

[0030] The aerosol supply device may include sensors installed indoors. The aerosol supply device may include two or more sensors.

[0031] The product can be cylindrical or rod-shaped.

[0032] The article may be substantially flat. The article may include a carrier component. The carrier component may include aerosol-generating material disposed on the carrier component. The aerosol-generating material may be configured as a continuous layer of aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be configured as multiple discrete portions of aerosol-generating material.

[0033] The carrier component may include a heating layer. The carrier component may include a heating layer and a support layer.

[0034] The article may include one or more sensory elements.

[0035] The article may include a single sensor element. A single sensor element may include multiple sensor portions. When the article is inserted into the device, the multiple sensor portions may be aligned with multiple induction heating elements disposed in the aerosol supply device.

[0036] The article can provide multiple sensors. When the article is inserted into the device, the multiple sensors can be aligned with multiple induction heating elements disposed in the aerosol supply device.

[0037] The aerosol supply system may also include a charging unit having a cavity for removably receiving the aerosol supply device.

[0038] According to another aspect, a method for generating an aerosol is provided, comprising: providing an aerosol supply system as described above; and inserting at least partially an aerosol generating article into a chamber.

[0039] According to another aspect, a computer program is provided, the computer program including instructions for causing an apparatus for an aerosol supply device to perform at least the following operations: driving a resonant circuit of an induction heater at a determined resonant frequency of a resonant circuit in a heating operation mode, wherein the induction heater includes a switching circuit and a resonant circuit, and wherein the induction heater is used for a heating sensor; measuring the resonant frequency of the induction heater during a sampling operation mode; and estimating the temperature of the sensor based at least in part on the resonant frequency of the induction heater. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of equipment used for aerosol supply devices; Figure 1b This is a block diagram of the circuit. The circuit is... Figure 1a Exemplary examples of the circuit; Figure 2 Temperature estimation according to an exemplary embodiment is shown; Figure 3 Temperature estimation according to another exemplary embodiment is shown; Figure 4 A flowchart of a method according to an exemplary embodiment is shown; Figure 5 It can be used Figure 1a The method of device implementation; Figures 6a to 6c It is a schematic representation of a system generally indicated by reference numeral 70 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] Figure 7a and Figure 7b It shows a graph of the pulse and the pulse response according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 8a and Figure 8b This is a schematic diagram of a non-combustible aerosol supply system; Figure 8c It includes Figure 8a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generating material product from the aerosol supply system; Figure 9a A schematic diagram of another non-combustible aerosol supply system is shown; Figure 9b It shows Figure 9a A schematic diagram of an aerosol supply system containing aerosol-generating materials; Figure 10a An isometric exploded view of another aerosol supply device is shown; Figure 10b It shows the use of in Figure 10a A schematic diagram of an article containing aerosol-generating materials used in an aerosol supply system; Figure 11a A schematic diagram of another non-combustible aerosol supply system is shown; and Figures 11b to 11e It shows the use of in Figure 9a A cross-sectional view of an article containing aerosol-generating materials used in an aerosol supply system. Detailed Implementation

[0042] As used herein, the term "delivery mechanism" is intended to encompass systems that deliver substances to users, including: non-combustible aerosol supply systems (such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and mixing systems) that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without combustion to generate aerosols using combinations of aerosolizable materials; and articles comprising aerosolizable materials and configured for use in one of these non-combustible aerosol supply systems.

[0043] According to this disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the aerosol generating material is non-combustible or non-ignitable in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0044] In some implementations, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0045] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vapor device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not necessary.

[0046] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a heating system for the aerosol generating material, also known as a heated non-combustible system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0047] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system is a mixing system for generating aerosols using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be in, for example, solid, liquid, or gel form, and may or may not include nicotine. In some embodiments, the mixing system includes liquid or gel aerosol-generating materials and solid aerosol-generating materials. Solid aerosol-generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0048] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include a non-combustible aerosol supply device and consumables used with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0049] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with non-combustible aerosol supply devices. Throughout this disclosure, these consumables are sometimes referred to as articles.

[0050] In some implementations, a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as its non-combustible aerosol supply device, may include a power supply and a controller.

[0051] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0052] In some embodiments, consumables used with non-combustible aerosol supply devices may include aerosol generating materials, aerosol generating material storage areas, aerosol generating material delivery components, aerosol generators, aerosol generating areas, housings, packaging paper, filters, nozzles, and / or aerosol modifiers.

[0053] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" (which is sometimes referred to herein as aerosolizable material) is a material capable of generating aerosols, for example, when heated, irradiated, or otherwise given energy. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, solid, liquid, or semi-solid (such as gel), and may or may not contain active substances and / or fragrances.

[0054] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes an active substance (sometimes referred to herein as an active compound).

[0055] Aerosol-generating materials may include one or more active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0056] Aerosol-generating materials may include binders (such as gelling agents) and aerosol-forming agents. Optionally, a substance to be transported and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent (such as water) may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may be soluble in the solvent or insoluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. Specifically, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0057] Aerosol-generating materials may include or be in the form of aerosol-generating membranes. Aerosol-generating membranes may include binders (such as gelling agents) and aerosol-forming agents. Optionally, a substance to be transported and / or fillers may also be present. Aerosol-generating membranes may be substantially free of plant material. Specifically, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0058] The aerosol-generating membrane can have a thickness of about 0.015 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the thickness can be in the range of about 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm or 0.15 mm to about 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm.

[0059] The aerosol-generating membrane can be continuous. For example, the membrane may include or may be a continuous sheet of material. The aerosol-generating membrane can also be discontinuous. For example, the aerosol-generating membrane may include one or more discrete portions or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as points, strips, or lines that can be supported on a support. In this embodiment, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0060] Aerosol-forming membranes can be formed by combining a binder (such as a gelling agent) with a solvent (such as water), an aerosol forming agent, and one or more other components (such as one or more substances to be transported) to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to atomize at least some of the solvent to form an aerosol-forming membrane. The slurry can be heated to remove at least about 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, or 90% of the solvent.

[0061] The aerosol-generating material can be an "amorphous solid." In some embodiments, the amorphous solid is a "monolithic solid." The aerosol-generating material can be non-fibrous or fibrous. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material can be a dried gel. The aerosol-generating material can be a solid material that can retain some fluid (such as a liquid) within it. In some embodiments, the retained fluid can be water (such as water absorbed from the surroundings of the aerosol-generating material), or the retained fluid can be a solvent (such as when the aerosol-generating material is formed from a slurry). In some embodiments, the solvent can be water.

[0062] Aerosol forming agent materials may include one or more components capable of forming aerosols. In some embodiments, aerosol forming agent materials may include one or more of the following: glycerol, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl octanoate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of glycerol diacetate, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, glyceryl tribocate, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0063] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers and / or antioxidants.

[0064] The material may be present on or within the support to form a receptor. The support may be, for example, or may include, paper, cardboard, cardboard, recycled material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or metal alloy.

[0065] An aerosol supply device may receive an article comprising an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, an "article" is a component that includes or contains an aerosol-generating material when in use, which is heated to atomize the aerosol-generating material and optionally other components. A user may insert the article into or onto an aerosol supply device, after which the article is heated to generate an aerosol, which the user then inhales.

[0066] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, thereby releasing one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In induction heating systems, the aerosol generator includes a magnetic field generator, such as a sensing element and a sensor.

[0067] A sensor is a material that can be heated by a changing magnetic field (such as an alternating magnetic field). The heating material can be conductive, allowing a changing magnetic field to penetrate it and induce heating. Alternatively, the heating material can be magnetic, allowing a changing magnetic field to penetrate it and induce heating. The heating material can be both conductive and magnetic, allowing it to be heated by both heating mechanisms.

[0068] Consumables are articles comprising or composed of aerosol-generating materials, which are intended, in whole or in part, to be consumed during use by a user. Consumables may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material delivery component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging paper, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also include an aerosol generator (such as a heater) that generates heat during use to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater may, for example, comprise a material that can be heated by electrical conduction.

[0069] Non-combustible aerosol supply systems may include modular components comprising both a reusable aerosol supply device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may include a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source may include, for example, a power source such as a battery or a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may also include an aerosol generating component. However, in other embodiments, the aerosol generating article may partially or completely comprise the aerosol generating component.

[0070] Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of a device according to an exemplary embodiment, generally indicated by reference numeral 10. System 10 includes a power supply in the form of a direct current (DC) power supply 11, a conversion device 13, a resonant circuit 14, a sensor device 16, and a control circuit 18. The conversion device 13 and the resonant circuit 14 may be connected together in an induction heating device 12, which may be used to heat the sensor 16.

[0071] The resonant circuit 14 may include one or more capacitors and one or more sensing elements for inductively heating the aerosol-generating material using the heating sensor device 16. Heating the aerosol-generating material thereby generates an aerosol.

[0072] The conversion device 13 enables (under the control of the control circuit 18) the generation of alternating current from the DC power supply 11. This alternating current can flow through one or more sensing elements and can cause heating of the sensing device 16. The conversion device may include multiple transistors. Example DC-AC converters include H-bridge or inverter circuits, examples of which are discussed below.

[0073] The temperature estimate from sensor 16 can be used as input to control various aspects of the operation of device 10.

[0074] Figure 1b This is a block diagram of a circuit according to an exemplary embodiment, generally indicated by reference numeral 60. Circuit 60 is an exemplary implementation of circuit 10 described above.

[0075] Circuit 60 includes a positive terminal 67 and a negative (ground) terminal 68 (these are exemplary implementations of the DC power supply 11 of system 10 described above). Circuit 60 includes conversion devices 64a and 64b (implementing the conversion device 13 described above), wherein conversion devices 64a and 64b include bridge circuitry (e.g., H-bridge circuitry, such as FET H-bridge circuitry). Conversion devices 64a and 64b include a first branch 64a and a second branch 64b, wherein the first branch 64a and the second branch 64b are connected via a resonant circuit 69 (which implements the resonant circuit 14 described above). The first branch 64a includes conversion sections 65a and 65b, and the second branch 64b includes conversion sections 65c and 65d. Conversion sections 65a, 65b, 65c, and 65d may be transistors such as field-effect transistors (FETs) and may receive input from a controller such as the control circuitry 18 of system 10.

[0076] The resonant circuit 69 includes a capacitor 66 and a sensing element 63, such that the resonant circuit 69 can be an LC resonant circuit (but in practice it can be an RLC resonant circuit). Circuit 60 further illustrates a sensor equivalent circuit 62 (e.g., representing the sensor device 16 of the system 10 described above). The sensor equivalent circuit 62 includes a resistor and a sensing element indicating the electrical effect of the example sensor device (such as sensor 16). When a sensor is present, the sensor device 62 and the sensing element 63 can act as a transformer 61. When circuit 60 receives power, the transformer 61 can generate a changing magnetic field that heats the sensor. During the heating operation mode (e.g., during operation 22 of algorithm 20), where the sensor device 16 is heated by the sensing element, the switching devices 64a, 64b (e.g., by control circuit 18) are driven, such that the first branch and the second branch are respectively connected, thereby allowing alternating current to flow through the resonant circuit 69. The resonant circuit 69 will have a resonant frequency partially based on the sensor device 16, and the control circuit 18 can be configured to control the switching device 64 to switch between that resonant frequency and a frequency close to that resonant frequency. Driving the switching circuit at or close to that resonant frequency helps improve efficiency and reduce energy loss to the switching element (which causes unnecessary heating of the switching element). In examples where the article of manufacture includes aluminum foil to be heated, the switching device 64 can be driven at a frequency of approximately 2.5 MHz. However, in other embodiments, this frequency can be anywhere between 500 kHz and 4 MHz or any other frequency range.

[0077] Figure 2 A first example of temperature estimation according to this disclosure is shown. In this example, the resonant frequency is used. Two (e.g., consecutive) measurements are used to estimate the temperature of the receptor. In this example, the estimated temperature of receptor 16 is proportional to the percentage change between the two measurements. The first measurement... It was at the first moment The second measurement was performed. It was at the second time The second time was carried out. Later than the first time The percentage change between the two measurements is calculated as follows:

[0078] The percentage change between the two measurements multiplied by a constant factor In some instances, the constant factor This can be determined numerically (e.g., from existing data already collected regarding the relationship between resonant frequency and sensor temperature). In some instances, the constant factor can be determined analytically. (For example, circuit analysis based on the values ​​of resistance, conductance, capacitance, etc., of the resonant circuit 14 of the device or apparatus configured as the heating sensor 16). In some examples, constant factors... It can be proportional to the capacitance of resonant circuit 14.

[0079] In this example, the calculation also includes ambient temperature. The measurement. Ambient temperature can be the temperature outside the device or equipment (e.g., the temperature of the room where the device / equipment is located) or the ambient temperature can be the temperature of an unheated area of ​​the device / equipment (e.g., the temperature of an area insulated from the heated area of ​​the device).

[0080] Figure 2 An example of temperature estimation of a device according to a first embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Lines A and B represent the resonant frequencies of sensor 16 for two devices or apparatuses with different capacitances. ) and estimated temperature ( It is known that the higher the frequency, the greater the deviation in the estimated temperature of the sensor. The actual measured temperatures of the two sensors did not show such a large deviation. Therefore, the limitation of the calculations shown in Figure 1 is that the accuracy of calculations for devices or apparatuses with different capacitances is limited.

[0081] Figure 3 A second example of temperature estimation according to this disclosure is shown. In this example, the resonant frequency is used. The temperature of receptor 16 is estimated using two (e.g., consecutive) measurements. In this example, the estimated temperature of receptor 16 is proportional to the difference between the two measurements. The first measurement... It was at the first moment The second measurement was performed. It was at the second time The second time was carried out. Later than the first time The difference between the two measurements is calculated as follows: .

[0082] Multiply the difference between the two measurements by a constant factor. In some instances, the constant factor This can be determined numerically (e.g., from existing data already collected regarding the relationship between the resonant frequency and the temperature of sensor 16). In some instances, the constant factor can be determined analytically. (For example, circuit analysis based on the values ​​of resistance, conductance, capacitance, etc., of the resonant circuit 14 of the device / equipment configured as the heating sensor 16). In some instances, constant factors... It can be proportional to the capacitance of the resonant circuit of the device or equipment.

[0083] In this example, the calculation also includes measurements of the ambient temperature. The ambient temperature can be the temperature outside the equipment or device (e.g., the temperature of the room where the device is located) or the ambient temperature can be the temperature in an unheated area of ​​the equipment / device (e.g., the temperature of an area insulated from the heated area of ​​the equipment / device).

[0084] Figure 3 An example of temperature estimation of a device according to a second embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Lines A and B represent the resonant frequencies of sensor 16 for two devices or apparatuses with different capacitances. ) and estimated temperature ( It is evident that the deviations in the temperature estimates made by these receptors are related to... Figure 2 The examples shown are different.

[0085] When using percentage change to estimate temperature, such as Figure 2 As shown, the denominator of the calculated fraction includes the resonant frequency. Therefore, the estimated temperature depends on the absolute value of the resonant frequency.

[0086] The absolute value of the resonant frequency can be changed according to the capacitance of the resonant circuit 14. Therefore, the constant factor... It can also vary depending on the capacitance of circuit 14. When using a constant factor... When the correct value is obtained, the first instance of the present invention ( Figure 2 (As shown) the temperature of receptor 16 can be accurately predicted. However, if a constant factor is used... Incorrect values ​​(e.g., values ​​associated with resonant circuits with different capacitances) can reduce the accuracy of temperature estimation.

[0087] like Figure 3As shown, the difference between measured values ​​is measured, rather than as... Figure 2 The percentage change shown removes any dependence on the absolute value of the resonant frequency in the temperature estimate. Therefore, the same constant factor... This can be used to estimate the temperature of the sensor 16 in a resonant circuit 14 with different capacitances. Therefore, the advantage of this calculation is that the same constant can be applied to devices / appliances with different capacitances. .

[0088] Figure 4 Methods for operating a resonant circuit, such as those described above and below, are illustrated. Step 101 of the method includes driving the resonant circuit of an induction heater at a determined resonant frequency in a heating mode, wherein the induction heater includes a switching circuit and a resonant circuit, and wherein the induction heater is used to heat a sensor. Step 102 of the method includes measuring the resonant frequency of the induction heater during a sampling mode. Step 103 of the method includes estimating the temperature of the sensor based at least in part on the resonant frequency of the induction heater.

[0089] It should be understood that the temperature estimation methods outlined above can be used for a variety of control applications.

[0090] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating algorithm 20 that can be implemented using the system in Figure 1.

[0091] Algorithm 20 begins in operation 22, where the resonant circuit (e.g., resonant circuit 14) is driven at the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit in the heating operation mode. In this embodiment, the resonant circuit is driven at a predetermined initial resonant frequency.

[0092] In an alternative implementation, the algorithm can begin at operation 24, where a sampling mode is triggered before the first heating; in other words, the receptor is detected via the sampling mode before heating. The sampling mode determines the frequency at which heating begins.

[0093] At operation 24, the sampling operation mode is entered. The sampling mode can attempt to determine the resonant frequency for the heating mode (e.g., during the next iteration of algorithm 20). As discussed below, the sampling mode may involve applying pulses to the resonant circuit at specified time intervals and processing the resonant response to determine / estimate the resonant frequency. The determined resonant frequency can then be used to estimate the temperature of the sensor using the method described above.

[0094] In operation 26, the driving frequency of the resonant circuit is set based on the estimated temperature of the sensor.

[0095] In operation 26, the parameters of the heating mode (including the driving frequency and sampling interval) are set. Heating of the sensor occurs in the next iteration of heating mode 22 until the time interval specified by the sampling mode is reached. Then, algorithm 20 re-enters sampling mode 24, where the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit is determined again, and the parameters of the heating and sampling modes are updated (in operation 26).

[0096] A controller (which may be part of control circuitry 18) can be used to determine the frequency at which sampling mode 24 is initiated. The controller can attempt to strike a balance between sampling frequency high enough to ensure that the resonant circuit is driven at its resonant frequency (or a frequency close to the resonant frequency) in heating mode 22 (thus favoring increased heating efficiency); and sampling rate low enough (i.e., sampling period long) so that the sensor is heated for most of the time (again, favoring increased heating efficiency).

[0097] The sampling period (i.e., the frequency at which sampling mode 24 is entered) can be a controllable variable. As discussed in detail below, there are several mechanisms that can be used to set the sampling period.

[0098] Figure 6a This is a schematic diagram of a system according to an exemplary embodiment, which is generally indicated by reference numeral 70.

[0099] System 70 includes a pulse generation circuit 72, a resonant circuit 74 (e.g., resonant circuit 14), a sensor 76 (e.g., sensor device 16), and a pulse response processor 78. The pulse generation circuit 72 and the pulse response processor 74 may be implemented as part of the control circuitry 18 of system 10 and may be used during sampling mode 26 of algorithm 20. In practice, the pulse generation circuit 72 and the pulse response processor 74 may collectively form a controller for heating the sensor using an induction heater according to the principles described herein.

[0100] The pulse generation circuit 72 can be implemented using the switching device of the circuit 60 described above to generate pulses (e.g., pulse edges) by switching between a positive power supply and a negative power supply. This is not necessary for all exemplary embodiments; for example, the pulse generation circuit 72 can be implemented using a half-bridge circuit.

[0101] The impulse response processor 78 can determine one or more performance metrics (or characteristics) of the resonant circuit 74 and the sensor 76 based on the impulse response. For example, the impulse response processor 78 can generate estimates of the temperature of the sensor 76 and / or the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit.

[0102] Figure 6bThis is a schematic diagram of a system according to another exemplary embodiment, generally indicated by reference numeral 70. In this example, there are multiple resonant circuits 74 and multiple sensors 76. Three resonant circuits and three sensors are shown. However, it will be understood that any number of resonant circuits and sensors can be provided. For example, at least eight resonant circuits and eight sensors can be provided. In one embodiment, ten resonant circuits and ten sensors are provided.

[0103] It should be understood that the resonant circuit 74 can be controlled individually to heat the corresponding sensor 76 as needed. For example, at any given time, only one resonant circuit can be in operation. Alternatively, two or more resonant circuits can operate simultaneously.

[0104] The resonant circuit can operate in a predetermined sequence. For example, the sensors can be aligned along an axis or path, causing the resonant circuit to operate in a predetermined sequence, such as heating the sensors sequentially along the length of the axis or path.

[0105] Figure 6c This is a schematic diagram of a system according to another exemplary embodiment, generally indicated by reference numeral 70. In this example, there are multiple resonant circuits 74 and a single sensor 76.

[0106] Three resonant circuits are shown. However, it will be understood that any number of resonant circuits and sensors can be provided. For example, at least eight resonant circuits can be provided. In one embodiment, ten resonant circuits are provided.

[0107] It should be understood that the resonant circuit 74 can be controlled individually to heat the corresponding portion of the sensor 76 as needed. For example, only one resonant circuit can be in operation at any given time. Alternatively, two or more resonant circuits can operate simultaneously.

[0108] The resonant circuit can operate in a predetermined sequence. For example, one or more sensors can be aligned along an axis or path, and the resonant circuit can operate in a predetermined sequence to sequentially heat the corresponding sensor portions along the length of the axis or path.

[0109] Figure 7a This is a graph illustrating pulse 140 according to an exemplary embodiment. Pulse 140 includes a rising pulse edge 142, which is an example of a pulse edge that can be generated by pulse generation circuitry 72 (e.g., by an H-bridge or half-bridge circuit). Pulse 140 may be applied, for example, during sampling mode 24 of algorithm 20.

[0110] Pulse 140 can be applied to resonant circuit 74. Alternatively, in a system with multiple sensing elements, pulse generation circuit 72 can select one of multiple resonant circuits, each including a sensing element for sensing a heating sensor and a capacitor, wherein the applied pulse causes a pulse response between the capacitor and the sensing element of the selected resonant circuit. Applying pulse edge 142 to resonant circuit 74 generates a pulse response.

[0111] Figure 7b The graph, generally indicated by reference numeral 150, illustrates an exemplary pulse response generated at the junction between the capacitive and inductive elements of the resonant circuit 14 in response to pulse edge 92. This response can be received by a control circuit.

[0112] like Figure 7b As shown, the impulse response 150 can take the form of ringing resonance. The impulse response is the result of charge bouncing between the capacitive and inductive elements of the resonant circuit. Figure 7b As shown, the period 102 between zero crossovers can be used to determine the resonant frequency of the impulse response. Note that in some exemplary embodiments, other measurements may be taken, such as the period between consecutive peaks of the ringing response.

[0113] Figures 8a to 11e A non-combustible aerosol supply device and system that can be controlled according to the principles described herein are shown.

[0114] Figure 8a This is a perspective view of an aerosol supply system 200, including an aerosol supply device 210 with a housing 221 and replaceable articles 250 (also referred to as consumables) that can be inserted into the aerosol supply device 210. The aerosol supply device 210 may also include an activation switch 212 for switching the aerosol supply device 220 on or off. In other embodiments, the device does not include an activation switch 212 and may be provided with a pressure trigger or some other on-demand activation device.

[0115] Figure 8b An aerosol supply system 200 is shown, with the front portion of the housing removed. An aerosol generating apparatus 210 includes a plurality of induction heaters (also referred to as induction heater units) 8a, 8b, 8c surrounding a heating chamber 240, into which the distal end of an article 250 is inserted.

[0116] Multiple induction heaters 8a-c include resonant circuits, such as the resonant circuit 14 described above. Induction heater units 8a-c, or each induction heater unit, may include a sensing element 9, such as a helical induction coil. In one example, the helical induction coil is made of Litz wire / cable wound in a helical manner to provide the helical induction coil. In other embodiments, other types of inductor elements are provided as inductors formed within a printed circuit board. The induction heater units and the sensing elements disposed therein may be identical or similar. Using three induction heater units is not necessary for all exemplary embodiments.

[0117] Therefore, the aerosol generating device 210 may include one or more induction heaters. In other embodiments, the device 210 may include four or more helical coil induction elements.

[0118] The aerosol supply system 200 includes a sensor 245 disposed within a heating chamber 240 such that when an article is inserted into the heating chamber 240, it is at least partially surrounded by the sensor.

[0119] In use, article 250 is received in article chamber 240. Sensing elements 9a-c surround sensor 245. Sensing elements 9a-c sense a changing magnetic field in sensor 245, which causes sensor 245 to heat. Sensor 245 then heats the aerosol-generating material in article 250.

[0120] Figure 8c An embodiment of an article 250 for the aerosol supply device 210 described above is shown, having a sensor disposed within the device. The article 250 includes a nozzle 251 and a cylindrical rod 254 of aerosol-generating material connected to the nozzle 251. The aerosol-generating material 254 is enclosed in a package 252. The package 252 may be, for example, a paper or paper-backed foil package. The package 252 may be substantially airtight. In one embodiment, the package 252 comprises aluminum foil.

[0121] In this example, the nozzle 251 includes a material body 256 upstream of a hollow tubular element 255, adjacent to and in an abutment relationship with the hollow tubular element 255. The material body 256 and the hollow tubular element 255 each define a generally cylindrical overall external shape and share a common longitudinal axis. The material body 256 is enclosed within a first plug package 257. The nozzle 251 also includes a second hollow tubular element 258, also referred to as a cooling element, upstream of the first hollow tubular element 254. Both the material body 256 and the second hollow tubular element 258 define a generally cylindrical overall external shape and share a common longitudinal axis. The second hollow tubular element 258 is formed of multiple layers of paper wound parallel together by butt joints to form the tubular element 258. A second plug package 259 is also disposed around the nozzle 251.

[0122] Aerosol generating material 254 (also referred to herein as aerosol generating substrate 254) comprises at least one aerosol forming material. In this example, the aerosol forming material is glycerol. In alternative embodiments, the aerosol forming material may be another material or a combination thereof as described herein. The aerosol generating substrate may include plant materials, such as tobacco.

[0123] In an alternative embodiment, the receptor 245 may be disposed in the article 250, for example, embedded in the aerosol generating material 254.

[0124] Figure 9a This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol supply system 200 according to another embodiment. The aerosol generation system 200 includes an aerosol supply device 210 and an aerosol generation article 250.

[0125] The aerosol supply device 210 includes a housing 221, a power supply 222, a control circuit 223, multiple sensing elements 8a-8c, a chamber 240, a mouthpiece end 226, an air inlet 227, an air outlet 228, a touch-sensitive panel 229, an inhalation sensor 230, and a use-end indicator 231.

[0126] The multiple induction heaters 8a-c include a resonant circuit, such as the resonant circuit 14 described above. The induction elements 8a-8c may include any suitable induction element, such as, but not limited to, a substantially planar induction coil.

[0127] The housing 221 can be formed of any suitable material, such as plastic. The housing 221 is arranged such that the power supply 222, control circuitry 223, aerosol generation component 224, chamber 240, and inhalation sensor 230 are located within the housing 221. The housing 221 also defines an air inlet 227 and an air outlet 228, as described in more detail below. A touch-sensitive panel 229 and a usage end indicator are located outside the housing 221. The housing 221 and the mouthpiece end 226 are formed as a single component (i.e., the mouthpiece end 226 forms part of the housing 221). In other embodiments, the mouthpiece end 226 may be a removable component separate from but capable of being attached to the housing 221, and may be removed for cleaning and / or replaced with another mouthpiece end 226.

[0128] The chamber 240 is sized to removably accommodate the aerosol-generating article 250 therein. Although not shown, the aerosol supply device 210 may include a hinged door or removable portion of the housing 221 to allow access to the chamber 240, enabling a user to insert and / or remove the aerosol-generating article 250. When closed, the hinged door or removable portion of the housing 210 may also be used to retain the aerosol-generating article 250 within the chamber 240. Alternatively, the aerosol supply device 210 may include a permanent opening communicating with the chamber 240 through which the aerosol-generating article 250 may be inserted into the chamber 240. In this implementation, a holding mechanism may be provided for retaining the aerosol-generating article 250 within the chamber 240 of the aerosol supply device 210.

[0129] Power source 222 is configured to provide operating power to aerosol supply device 210. Power source 222 can be any suitable power source, such as a battery. For example, power source 222 may include a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery. Power source 222 may be removable or integrally formed part of aerosol supply device 210. In some implementations, power source 222 can be recharged via connection of aerosol supply device 210 to an external power source (such as AC power) through an associated connection port (such as a USB port (not shown)) or via a suitable wireless receiver (not shown).

[0130] Control circuit 223 is suitably configured / programmed to control the operation of the aerosol supply device to provide certain operational functions of aerosol supply device 210. Control circuit 223 is connected to and receives power from power source 222, and can be configured to distribute or control the power supply to other components of aerosol supply device 210.

[0131] The aerosol supply device 210 also includes a chamber 240 arranged to receive an aerosol-generating article 250. The aerosol-generating article includes a carrier component 262 and an aerosol-generating material 254 (e.g., an aerosol-generating membrane) disposed on or within the surface of the carrier 262. The article 250 also includes a receptor material (…). Figure 7a (Not shown in the image).

[0132] The sensing elements 8a-c can be referred to as heating elements. The sensing elements 8a-8c are aligned along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device 210. Each sensing element is aligned with a corresponding discrete portion of the aerosol generating material 254, thereby defining a corresponding aerosol generating region.

[0133] In some implementations, to provide heat transfer efficiency, the chamber may include a component that applies force to the surface of the carrier component 262 to press the carrier component 262 onto the sensing elements 8a-c, thereby increasing the efficiency of heat transfer via conduction to the aerosol generating material 254.

[0134] In other embodiments, four or more sensing elements may be provided aligned along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device 210.

[0135] Figure 9b It shows Figure 9a A schematic diagram of the product 250. The carrier component 262 is roughly rectangular in shape, with a length I, a width w, and a thickness tc.

[0136] The aerosol generating article 250 includes multiple discrete portions of aerosol generating material 254 disposed on the surface of a carrier member 262. The discrete portions of the aerosol generating material 254 are separated from each other, such that each of the discrete portions can be individually or selectively energized (e.g., heated) to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating article 250 may include multiple portions of the aerosol generating material, all formed of the same aerosol generating material. Alternatively, the aerosol generating article 250 may include multiple portions of the aerosol generating material 254, wherein at least two portions are formed of different aerosol generating materials.

[0137] In this embodiment, the aerosol generating article 250 includes three discrete portions of aerosol generating material 254 aligned along the central axis of the article to align with the sensing element in the device 210. In other embodiments, more or fewer discrete portions may be provided, and / or these portions may be arranged in different patterns to align with any arrangement of the sensing element in the aerosol supply device.

[0138] The carrier layer 262 includes a heating layer 264 serving as a sensor 245 and a support layer 266. Aerosol generating material 254 is disposed on a first side 264a of the heating layer 264. The aerosol generating material 254 is divided into discrete portions that can be easily and sequentially heated (e.g., one after another) during an aerosol generation session.

[0139] In this example, the heating layer 264 is formed of aluminum foil. In other examples, the heating layer 264 may be formed of different materials, such as another metal or metal alloy.

[0140] A support layer 266 is disposed on the second side 264b of the heating layer 264. The support layer 266 comprises a single layer of material. The support layer 266 is formed entirely of the same material. In this example, the support layer 266 is formed of paper or cardboard. The support layer 266 provides structural support for the heating layer 264. The support layer 266 provides structural support for the article 250.

[0141] In other embodiments, the article comprises a continuous layer of aerosol-generating material disposed on the carrier component 262.

[0142] In other embodiments, carrier assembly 262 may include a single layer, which is a heating layer 264 that acts as a sensor 245.

[0143] In use, article 250 is received in article chamber 240. Sensing elements 8a-c surround sensor 245. Sensing elements 8a-c induce a changing magnetic field in sensor 245, causing sensor 245 to heat. Sensor 245 then heats the aerosol-generating material in article 250.

[0144] Figure 10a An isometric exploded view of an aerosol supply device 210 according to another embodiment is shown. The aerosol supply device 210 includes components related to... Figure 9a Components that are substantially similar to those described are referred to by the same reference numerals, and unless otherwise stated, these components should be understood to be substantially the same as their corresponding components.

[0145] The device 210 includes a plurality of sensing elements 8, which in this example are arranged in a 2x5 configuration. The plurality of induction heaters 8 include resonant circuits, such as the resonant circuit 14 described above. In this embodiment, the device 210 includes a plurality of air inlets 227 and air delivery channels 237 to guide air to the sensing elements 8.

[0146] In another embodiment (not shown), each of the plurality of sensing elements 8, which are enclosed by a corresponding aerosol transport channel, has an independent air supply port. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the device may have a single air inlet (as described above).

[0147] Figure 10b An illustration of a different embodiment is shown. Figure 8a Article 250 is used in conjunction with the device. Article 250 includes components related to... Figure 9b Components that are substantially the same as those described are referred to by the same reference numerals and, unless otherwise stated, should be understood to be substantially the same as their counterparts. Figure 10b In this embodiment, the article 250 includes ten discrete portions of aerosol-generating material 254 disposed on a first side of the carrier component 262. The discrete portions are provided in a 2x5 grid. In this embodiment, the carrier component 262 includes a heating layer 264.

[0148] It should be understood that in other embodiments, the carrier component 262 also includes a support layer.

[0149] In other embodiments, the aerosol supply device may be provided with any number of sensing elements, which may be arranged in an alternative grid configuration, such as a 2x3 grid, a 2x4 grid, or a 3x3 grid.

[0150] In an alternative embodiment, the aerosol generating article may be provided with an aerosol generating material 254, which may be distributed in different numbers of discrete portions and at different positions on the first side of the heating layer 264 as needed.

[0151] Figure 11a An aerosol supply system 200 according to another embodiment is shown. The aerosol supply device 210 includes components related to... Figure 9a Components that are substantially similar to those described are referred to by the same reference numerals, and unless otherwise stated, these components should be understood to be substantially the same as their corresponding components.

[0152] The device 210 includes a plurality of sensing elements 8a-j, which in this embodiment are arranged in a first array 8a to e and a second array 8f to 8j. The first array 8a to 8e of the sensing elements is disposed on a first side of the chamber 240, and the second array 8f to 8j is disposed on the opposite second side of the chamber 240.

[0153] In other embodiments, the aerosol supply device 210 may include a hinged door or removable portion of the housing 221 to allow access to the chamber 240, allowing a user to insert and / or remove the aerosol-generating article 250 from the chamber 240.

[0154] Figures 11b to 11e It shows that it can be used with Figure 11a Different articles used together with the apparatus. These articles are generally cubic in shape so as to be received in chamber 240 of apparatus 210.

[0155] Figure 11b A cross-sectional view through article 250 is shown, which includes a carrier component 262 and a heating layer 264. Discrete portions of aerosol generating material 254 are disposed on a first side 264a and a second side 264b of the heating layer 264.

[0156] Figure 11c A cross-sectional view through article 250 is shown, which includes a carrier component 262 comprising a support layer 266 and two heating layers 264, wherein the support layer is disposed between the heating layers 264. Discrete portions of aerosol generating material 254 are disposed on the outer surface of the heating layers 264.

[0157] Figure 11d A cross-sectional view is shown through an article 250 comprising a substantially cubic carrier component 262. The article defines an internal void 263 having an open first end 262a and a second end 262b. The carrier component 262 includes a heating layer 264 disposed on opposite sides of the internal void. Discrete portions of an aerosol-generating material 254 are disposed on the inner surface of the heating layer 264.

[0158] Figure 11e A cross-sectional view is shown through an article 250 comprising a substantially cubic carrier component 262. The article defines an internal void 263 having an open first end 262a and a second end 262b. The carrier component 262 includes a heating layer 264 and a support layer 266. Discrete portions of aerosol-generating material 254 are disposed on the inner surface of the heating layer 264.

[0159] The various embodiments described herein are provided only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on the equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized. Modifications may be made without departing from the claimed scope of the invention. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or substantially consist of suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc., or suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. A method comprising: In the heating mode, the resonant circuit is driven at a determined resonant frequency of the resonant circuit of the induction heater for the aerosol supply device, wherein the induction heater includes a switching circuit and a resonant circuit, and wherein the induction heater is used as a heating sensor. The resonant frequency of the induction heater is measured during sampling mode; The temperature of the sensor is estimated at least in part based on the resonant frequency of the induction heater.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: Measure the ambient temperature near the induction heater; and The temperature of the sensor is estimated at least in part based on the ambient temperature near the induction heater.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Estimating the temperature of the receptor includes: Determine the difference between the first measurement frequency and the second measurement frequency; and Multiply the difference between the first measurement frequency and the second measurement frequency by a constant factor.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The first measurement frequency and the second measurement frequency are measurement values ​​obtained at different times.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The first measurement frequency and the second measurement frequency are two consecutive frequency measurements.

6. The method according to claim 3, 4 or 5, wherein, The constant factor is proportional to the capacitance of the resonant circuit of the device.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The ambient temperature is the temperature of the air surrounding the resonant circuit.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises: In the sampling operation mode, a pulse is applied to the resonant circuit to generate a pulse response for estimating the temperature.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises: Determine or estimate the difference between an estimated temperature of the sensor and a target temperature of the sensor, wherein the sensor is heated by an induction heater circuit including a switching circuit and a resonant circuit; and The sampling period or sampling frequency is set at least in part based on this difference, wherein the sampling period or sampling frequency defines the interval between successive sampling operation modes of the induction heater circuit.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: If the difference between the estimated temperature and the target temperature decreases, the sampling period is shortened. And / or If the difference between the estimated temperature and the target temperature increases, the sampling period is extended.

11. An apparatus for an aerosol supply device, comprising: A resonant circuit includes a sensing element and a capacitor, wherein the sensing element is used to sense a heating sensor; A driving circuit for applying a pulse to the resonant circuit, wherein one side of the applied pulse induces a pulse response between the capacitor and the sensing element of the resonant circuit, wherein the pulse response has a resonant frequency; and Processor, used for: The resonant frequency of the induction heater is measured during the sampling operation mode; The temperature of the sensor is estimated at least in part based on the resonant frequency of the induction heater.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein, The processor is further configured as follows: Measure the ambient temperature near the induction heater; and The temperature of the sensor is estimated at least in part based on the ambient temperature near the induction heater.

13. The device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The processor is further configured as follows: Determine the difference between the first measurement frequency and the second measurement frequency; and Multiply the difference between the first measurement frequency and the second measurement frequency by a constant factor.

14. The device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, The processor is further configured as follows: Determine or estimate the difference between the estimated temperature of the sensor and the target temperature of the sensor, wherein the sensor is heated by an induction heater circuit including a switching circuit and a resonant circuit; and The sampling period or sampling frequency is set at least in part based on this difference, wherein the sampling period or sampling frequency defines the interval between successive sampling operation modes of the induction heater circuit.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein, The processor is further configured as follows: If the difference between the estimated temperature and the target temperature decreases, shorten the sampling period; and / or If the difference between the estimated temperature and the target temperature increases, the sampling period is extended.

16. The device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The drive circuit is configured to drive the resonant circuit at a determined resonant frequency in the heating operation mode.

17. An aerosol supply device comprising the apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 16.

18. The aerosol supply device according to claim 17, comprising a plurality of resonant circuits.

19. The aerosol supply device according to claim 20, comprising: A chamber for removably receiving an article containing an aerosol-generating material, wherein the sensing elements of the plurality of resonant circuits are arranged along the sidewall of the chamber.

20. The aerosol supply device according to claim 19, comprising: A chamber for removably receiving an article containing an aerosol-generating material; wherein the sensing elements of the plurality of resonant circuits are arranged along two side walls of the chamber.

21. An aerosol supply system, comprising: The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 17 to 20; And products, including aerosol-generating materials.

22. The aerosol supply system according to claim 21, wherein, The article includes a receptor.

23. A method for generating an aerosol, comprising: Provide an aerosol supply system according to claim 21 or 22; And inserting at least partially of the aerosol-generated article into the chamber.

24. A computer program comprising instructions for use with an aerosol supply apparatus to execute at least the following: In the heating operation mode, the resonant circuit is driven at a determined resonant frequency of the induction heater's resonant circuit, wherein, The induction heater includes a conversion circuit and a resonant circuit, and the induction heater is used as a heating sensor; The resonant frequency of the induction heater is measured during the sampling operation mode; The temperature of the sensor is estimated at least in part based on the resonant frequency of the induction heater.

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