Start-up protection circuit and atomization device

Abstract

The application provides a starting protection circuit and an atomization device, and belongs to the technical field of electronic atomization. In the starting protection circuit, the airflow detection unit transmits a first electric signal to the control unit in response to a suction action; the contact detection unit transmits a second electric signal to the control unit in response to a preset induction signal; the control unit is configured to control the power supply to provide working voltage to the heating element in a first mode if the second electric signal is received; control the power supply to provide working voltage to the heating element in a second mode if the first electric signal is received within a preset time after the second electric signal is received; and control the power supply to stop providing working voltage to the heating element if the second electric signal is not received. The application adds a precondition to effectively reduce the probability of false start of the atomization device due to false detection of the suction action by the airflow detection unit, thereby effectively solving the self-starting problem of the atomization device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of electronic atomization technology, specifically relating to a start-up protection circuit and an atomization device. Background Technology

[0002] A heated atomizing device is a device that generates steam / mist by heating a liquid. The core components of an atomizing device include an airflow switch, a heating element, and a heating switch controlled by the airflow switch. When the airflow switch detects the user's inhalation action, the heating switch connects the heating element to the power supply.

[0003] The presence of condensate inside heated atomizing devices can easily cause the airflow switch to open accidentally, leading to the device starting up incorrectly. This can result in the heating element overheating for extended periods, wasting energy and affecting the lifespan and safety of the atomizing device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a startup protection circuit and an atomizing device to eliminate the problem that heating elements in heated atomizing devices will heat up for a long time due to self-starting, resulting in energy waste or even the risk of spontaneous combustion.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solutions provided in this application are as follows: In some embodiments, a startup protection circuit is provided, including: an airflow detection unit, a contact detection unit, and a control unit; The airflow detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the airflow detection unit transmits a first electrical signal to the control unit in response to the suction action; The contact detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the contact detection unit transmits a second electrical signal to the control unit in response to a preset sensing signal. The control unit is configured to be connected to the heating element and the power supply, and the control unit is configured to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element in a first mode upon receiving the second electrical signal; Furthermore, the control unit is configured to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element in a second mode when the first electrical signal is received within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, wherein the operating voltage provided by the power supply in the second mode is greater than the operating voltage provided in the first mode; Furthermore, the control unit is configured to control the power supply to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element when the second electrical signal is not received.

[0006] In some embodiments, the ratio of the operating voltage provided by the power supply in the second mode to the operating voltage provided in the first mode is in the range of [100, 10].

[0007] In some embodiments, the preset time ranges from [0, 2] seconds.

[0008] In some embodiments, the control unit includes: a controller and a switching module; The switching module is connected to the controller, the power supply and the heating element respectively, and is configured to connect or disconnect the power supply and the heating element under the control of the controller. The controller is also connected to the airflow detection unit and the contact detection unit, and is configured to output a first PWM signal to the switching module upon receiving the second electrical signal. The duty cycle of the first PWM signal is less than the target ratio to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element in the first mode.

[0009] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to output a second PWM signal to the switching module upon receiving a first electrical signal within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, thereby controlling the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a second mode. The duty cycle of the second PWM signal is greater than the target ratio, so as to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element in the second mode.

[0010] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to output a shutdown signal to the switching module when the second electrical signal is not received. The shutdown signal is used to control the switching module to keep the power supply and the heating element disconnected, so as to control the power supply to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element.

[0011] In some embodiments, the duty cycle of the first PWM signal ranges from [1%, 10%]; the duty cycle of the second PWM signal ranges from [50%, 100%].

[0012] In some embodiments, the contact detection unit further includes: a touch sensing key, a reference capacitor, and a data processing module; One end of the reference capacitor is grounded, and the other end of the reference capacitor is connected to the touch sensing key and the capacitance sensing port of the data processing module, respectively. The detection output terminal of the data processing module is connected to the control unit. The data processing module is configured to output the second electrical signal to the control unit in response to the preset sensing signal indicating that the capacitance change of the capacitance sensing port exceeds the change threshold.

[0013] In some embodiments, the contact detection unit further includes a current-limiting resistor; The current-limiting resistor is disposed between the touch-sensitive key and the capacitive sensing port and is configured to limit the peak current flowing into the capacitive sensing port.

[0014] In some embodiments, the switching module includes: a power switching transistor; The control terminal of the power switch is connected to the controller, the input terminal of the power switch is connected to the power supply, and the output terminal of the power switch is grounded through the heating element.

[0015] In some embodiments, the contact detection unit is disposed at the suction nozzle.

[0016] In some embodiments, an atomizing device is provided, which includes any of the start-up protection circuits provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0017] In this embodiment, the activation protection circuit includes an airflow detection unit, a contact detection unit, and a control unit. The airflow detection unit is connected to the control unit and transmits a first electrical signal to the control unit in response to a suction action. The contact detection unit is also connected to the control unit and transmits a second electrical signal to the control unit in response to a preset sensing signal. The control unit is configured to be connected to a heating element and a power supply. The control unit is configured to, upon receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a first mode; and to, upon receiving the first electrical signal within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a second mode; and to, if the second electrical signal is not received, control the power supply to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element.

[0018] In this application, the operating voltage provided by the power supply in the second mode is higher than that in the first mode. Under the control of the startup protection circuit, the heating element will only operate based on the voltage provided by the power supply, depending on whether the airflow detection unit detects a suction action, if the contact detection unit responds to a preset sensing signal. Clearly, the prerequisite for the heating element to start in response to a suction action in the startup protection circuit of this application is that the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal. Compared to related technologies where the heating element only starts in response to a suction action, this application's technical solution effectively reduces the probability of the atomizing device erroneously starting due to the airflow detection unit's false detection of a suction action by adding a precondition. This prevents the atomizing device from continuously heating the heating element, wasting power, and posing a risk of spontaneous combustion due to self-starting, thus improving the device's lifespan and safety. Furthermore, under the control of the startup protection circuit of this application, the heating element can operate at a lower voltage even if the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal but the airflow detection unit does not detect a suction action. This allows the heating element to preheat before the user inhales, improving the atomization uniformity of the atomizing device and enhancing the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the startup protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a second schematic diagram of the startup protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the controller provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is the third schematic diagram of the startup protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the contact detection unit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is a second schematic diagram of the contact detection unit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 7 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the airflow detection unit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 8 This is one of the schematic diagrams showing the arrangement of the contact detection unit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 9 This is the fourth schematic diagram of the startup protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. Similar elements in different embodiments are referred to by associated similar element reference numerals. In the following embodiments, many details are described to facilitate a better understanding of this application. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that some features may be omitted in different situations, or may be replaced by other elements, materials, or methods. In some cases, certain operations related to this application are not shown or described in the specification. This is to avoid obscuring the core parts of this application with excessive description. For those skilled in the art, detailed description of these related operations is not necessary; they can fully understand the related operations based on the description in the specification and general technical knowledge in the art.

[0022] Furthermore, the features, operations, or characteristics described in the specification can be combined in any suitable manner to form various embodiments. At the same time, the steps or actions in the method description can be rearranged or adjusted in a manner obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the various orders in the specification and drawings are only for the clear description of a particular embodiment and do not imply a necessary order, unless otherwise stated that a particular order must be followed.

[0023] The serial numbers assigned to components in this document, such as "first" and "second," are merely configured to distinguish the described objects and have no sequential or technical meaning. The terms "connection" and "linkage" used in this application, unless otherwise specified, include both direct and indirect connections (linkages).

[0024] Please refer to Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a schematic representation of a startup protection circuit provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the start-up protection circuit includes: airflow detection unit 1, contact detection unit 2, and control unit 3.

[0025] The airflow detection unit 1 is connected to the control unit 3. The airflow detection unit 1 transmits a first electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to the suction action.

[0026] The contact detection unit 2 is connected to the control unit 3, and the contact detection unit 2 transmits a second electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to a preset sensing signal.

[0027] Control unit 3 is configured to connect to heating element 4 and power supply 5. Control unit 3 can be configured to, upon receiving a second electrical signal, control power supply 5 to provide operating voltage to heating element 4 according to a first mode. Control unit 3 is also configured to, upon receiving a first electrical signal within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, control power supply 5 to provide operating voltage to heating element 4 according to a second mode. Control unit 3 is further configured to, if no second electrical signal is received, control power supply 5 to stop providing operating voltage to heating element 4. The operating voltage provided by power supply 5 in the second mode is greater than the operating voltage provided in the first mode. Optionally, the ratio of the operating voltage provided by power supply 5 in the second mode to the operating voltage provided in the first mode can be in the range of [100, 10].

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, a preset sensing signal indicates that the contact detection unit 2 has come into contact with a human body. The airflow detection unit 1 is configured to detect whether the user is making a sucking motion, and in response to the sucking motion, transmits a first electrical signal to the control unit 3. The contact detection unit 2 is configured to detect whether it has come into contact with a human body, and in response to the preset sensing signal indicating that it has come into contact with a human body, transmits a second electrical signal to the control unit 3.

[0029] Accordingly, the control unit 3 can be configured to, upon receiving a second electrical signal indicating that the contact detection unit 2 has come into contact with the human body, but the airflow detection unit 1 has not detected a suction action, control the power supply 5 to provide a working voltage to the heating element 4 in the first mode, so that the heating element 4 operates at a lower voltage, thereby controlling the heating element 4 to operate at a lower working power, so that the heating element 4 can be preheated before the user inhales, thereby improving the atomization uniformity of the atomizing device.

[0030] The control unit 3 is configured to receive a first electrical signal within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, indicating that the contact detection unit 2 has come into contact with the human body and the airflow detection unit 1 has detected a suction action. In this case, the control power supply 5 provides a working voltage to the heating element 4 according to the second mode, so that the heating element 4 operates at a higher working voltage, thereby controlling the heating element 4 to operate at a higher working power. The preset time can be set according to actual needs. Optionally, the preset time can be in the range of [0, 2] seconds.

[0031] The control unit 3 is configured to control the power supply 5 to stop supplying operating voltage to the heating element 4 when no second electrical signal is received, indicating that the airflow detection unit 1 has not detected a suction action, so as to control the heating element 4 to stop working.

[0032] In some embodiments of this application, the airflow detection unit 1 may be configured to transmit a first electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to a suction action, and to transmit a third electrical signal to the control unit 3 when not in response to a suction action.

[0033] The contact detection unit 2 can be configured to transmit a second electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to a preset sensing signal indicating that a user has touched the contact detection unit 2; and to transmit a fourth electrical signal to the control unit 3 if it does not respond to the preset sensing signal indicating that the user has not touched the contact detection unit 2. Clearly, the function of the contact detection unit 2 can be considered as detecting whether contact with a human body has occurred.

[0034] The control unit 3 is configured to, upon receiving a second electrical signal output from the contact detection unit 2 and a third electrical signal output from the airflow detection unit 1, assume that the user has touched the contact detection unit 2 but has not performed a suction action. The control power supply 5 then provides a working voltage to the heating element 4 according to a first mode, controlling the heating element 4 to operate at a lower voltage. This results in the heating element 4 operating at a lower preheating power, allowing it to generate a small amount of heat before the user suctions. This effectively shortens the heating time of the heating element 4 during suction, improves the atomization uniformity of the device, and enhances the user experience. Optionally, the preheating power may refer to the minimum power of the heating element 4, and the specific value of its corresponding working voltage can be set according to the actual situation of the device; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0035] The control unit 3 is configured to, upon receiving the first electrical signal from the airflow detection unit 1 within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2, assume that the suction action detected by the airflow detection unit 1 was manually triggered. It then controls the power supply 5 to provide operating voltage to the heating element 4 according to the second mode, thereby controlling the heating element 4 to operate at a higher operating voltage. This increases the operating power of the heating element 4, causing its temperature to rise rapidly to meet the user's required power. The control unit 3 only controls the heating element 4 to increase its operating power when it receives the first electrical signal from the airflow detection unit 1 within the preset time after receiving the second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2. This effectively ensures that the operating temperature of the heating element 4 is only increased when it is determined that the user has manually performed suction on the device, thus effectively executing the atomization function. This prevents non-human actions such as condensation from triggering the suction action and causing false starts, improving the device's startup reliability and operational safety.

[0036] The control unit 3 is configured to assume that the user has not touched the contact detection unit 2 if it receives the fourth electrical signal output by the contact detection unit 2, i.e., if it does not receive the second electrical signal output by the contact detection unit 2. At this time, regardless of whether the control unit 3 receives the third electrical signal or the first electrical signal output by the airflow detection unit 1, the control unit 3 controls the heating element 4 to stop working, so that the heating element 4 stops heating, fundamentally preventing the airflow detection unit 1 from detecting non-human-triggered suction action and causing the equipment to start automatically, thus ensuring the reliability of the equipment's start-up.

[0037] In this embodiment, the activation protection circuit includes an airflow detection unit, a contact detection unit, and a control unit. The airflow detection unit is connected to the control unit and transmits a first electrical signal to the control unit in response to a suction action. The contact detection unit is also connected to the control unit and transmits a second electrical signal to the control unit in response to a preset sensing signal. The control unit is configured to be connected to a heating element and a power supply. The control unit is configured to, upon receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a first mode; and to, upon receiving the first electrical signal within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a second mode; and to, if the second electrical signal is not received, control the power supply to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element.

[0038] In this application, the operating voltage provided by the power supply in the second mode is higher than that in the first mode. Under the control of the startup protection circuit, the heating element will only operate based on the voltage provided by the power supply, depending on whether the airflow detection unit detects a suction action, if the contact detection unit responds to a preset sensing signal. Clearly, the prerequisite for the heating element to start in response to a suction action in the startup protection circuit of this application is that the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal. Compared to related technologies where the heating element only starts in response to a suction action, this application's technical solution effectively reduces the probability of the atomizing device erroneously starting due to the airflow detection unit's false detection of a suction action by adding a precondition. This prevents the atomizing device from continuously heating the heating element, wasting power, and posing a risk of spontaneous combustion due to self-starting, thus improving the device's lifespan and safety. Furthermore, under the control of the startup protection circuit of this application, the heating element can operate at a lower voltage even if the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal but the airflow detection unit does not detect a suction action. This allows the heating element to preheat before the user inhales, improving the atomization uniformity of the atomizing device and enhancing the user experience.

[0039] In some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the control unit 3 includes a controller 31 and a switch module 32.

[0040] The switch module 32 is connected to the controller 31, the power supply 5, and the heating element 4. The switch module 32 is configured to connect or disconnect the power supply 5 and the heating element 4 under the control of the controller 31. Optionally, the first terminal of the heating element 4 is connected to the switch module 32, and the second terminal of the heating element 4 is grounded. The switch module 32 is configured to connect or disconnect the power supply 5 and the first terminal of the heating element 4.

[0041] The controller 31 is also connected to the airflow detection unit 1 and the contact detection unit 2. The controller 31 is configured to output a first PWM signal to the switching module 32 upon receiving a second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2. Optionally, as... Figure 3 As shown, the controller 31 can be a microcontroller unit (MCU). Of course, the controller 31 can also be other controller units such as a central processing unit (CPU). Figure 3 In this context, power supply B+ represents power supply 5.

[0042] Optionally, the controller 31 is configured to output a first PWM signal to the switching module 32 upon receiving a second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2, causing the switching module 32 to alternately switch the power supply 5 and the heating element 4 in response to the first PWM signal. When the switching module 32 connects the power supply 5 and the heating element 4, the heating element 4 and the power supply 5 form a power supply circuit, and the heating element 4 operates. When the switching module 32 disconnects the power supply 5 and the heating element 4, the power supply circuit formed by the heating element 4 and the power supply 5 is broken, and the heating element 4 stops operating.

[0043] In this configuration, the duty cycle of the first PWM signal is less than the target ratio to control the power supply 5 to provide operating voltage to the heating element 4 according to the first mode. The duty cycle of the first PWM signal refers to the proportion of the conduction time of the switching module 32. The switching module 32 responds to the first PWM signal with a switching cycle, and in a single switching cycle, the switching module 32 alternately switches the power supply 5 and the heating element 4 on and off. The proportion of the conduction time of the switching module 32 refers to the proportion of the time that the switching module 32 connects the power supply 5 and the heating element 4 in a single switching cycle within the switching cycle.

[0044] In some embodiments, the operating voltage provided by power supply 5 in the first mode (second module) can refer to the operating voltage provided by power supply 5 to the heating element in the first mode (second module). Therefore, power supply 5 can output a constant voltage and adjust the average voltage across the heating element 4 during the switching cycle by regulating the on-time percentage of switching module 32, thereby adjusting the operating power of the heating element 4.

[0045] The operating voltage supplied by power supply 5 to heating element 4 during a single switching cycle makes the average voltage across heating element 4 proportional to the on-time proportion of switching module 32, thereby making the operating power of heating element 4 proportional to the on-time proportion of switching module 32. Therefore, the on-time proportion can be determined based on the preheating power test corresponding to the first mode, and thus the first PWM signal can be determined.

[0046] Upon receiving the second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2, the controller 31 outputs a first PWM signal to enable the power supply 5 to provide operating voltage to the heating element 4 according to the first mode. This allows the heating element 4 to operate at a lower voltage, thereby operating with a lower preheating power and achieving the preheating function. The preheating power of the heating element 4 ensures that it is sufficiently heated before the user inhales, effectively shortening the heating time of the heating element 4 during inhalation, improving the uniformity of atomization, and enhancing the user experience. Optionally, the preheating power may refer to the minimum power required for the heating element 4 to generate heat. Its specific value can be set according to the actual situation of the device, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0047] Optionally, the controller 31 can pre-store fixed parameters of the first PWM signal. Upon receiving the second electrical signal transmitted by the contact detection unit 2, it can directly generate a fixed first PWM signal based on the fixed parameters of the first PWM signal and output the generated first PWM signal to the switching module 32. This causes the power supply 5 to provide operating voltage to the heating element 4 according to the first mode, enabling the heating element 4 to operate at the preheating power. For example, the preheating power is the minimum power required for the heating element 4 to heat up. The first PWM signal is determined based on the minimum power of the heating element 4 and is used to control the switching module 32 to preheat the heating element 4 at the minimum power. For example, the duty cycle of the first PWM signal can be 1% to preheat the heating element 4 at the minimum power.

[0048] In some embodiments of this application, the controller 31 is further configured to output a second PWM signal to the switching module 32 when it receives a first electrical signal from the airflow detection unit 1 within a preset time period after receiving the second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2, so as to control the power supply 5 to provide operating voltage to the heating element 4 according to the second mode. The duty cycle of the second PWM signal is greater than a target ratio to control the power supply 5 to provide operating voltage to the heating element 4 according to the second mode, thereby controlling the heating element 4 to increase its operating power.

[0049] Optionally, as mentioned above, the operating voltage provided by power supply 5 in the first mode (second module) can refer to the operating voltage provided by power supply 5 to the heating element in the first mode (second module). The operating voltage provided by power supply 5 to heating element 4 within a single switching cycle can make the average voltage across heating element 4 proportional to the proportion of the conduction time of switching module 32, thereby making the operating power of heating element 4 proportional to the proportion of the conduction time of switching module 32.

[0050] The controller 31 is configured to output a second PWM signal to the switching module 32 when it receives a first electrical signal from the airflow detection unit 1 within a preset time period after receiving the second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2. This causes the switching module 32 to alternately switch the power supply 5 and the heating element 4 in response to the second PWM signal. By increasing the duration of the connection between the power supply 5 and the heating element 4 in each switching cycle, the heating element 4 can be connected to the power supply 5 for a longer period of time in each switching cycle of the switching module 32, forming a power supply circuit for the heating element 4. This allows the heating element 4 to operate at a higher voltage, thereby increasing the operating power of the heating element 4.

[0051] Optionally, the on-time percentage can be determined by testing based on the normal operating power of the heating element 4, and then the second PWM signal can be determined. Normal operating power refers to the operating power required for element 4 to function when the user inhales the atomizing device. The control unit 3 only outputs the second PWM signal to the switching module 32 after receiving the first electrical signal from the airflow detection unit 1 within a preset time period following the receipt of the second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2. This controls the heating element 4 to increase its operating power, effectively ensuring that the operating temperature of the heating element 4 is only increased when the user is manually inhaling the device, thus effectively executing the atomization function. This prevents non-human actions such as condensation from triggering the inhalation action and causing false starts, improving the device's startup reliability and operational safety.

[0052] In some embodiments, if the controller 31 receives a first electrical signal from the airflow detection unit 1 within a preset time period after receiving a second electrical signal from the contact detection unit 2, it can dynamically adjust the second PWM signal and send the adjusted second PWM signal to the switching module 32 to control the heating element 4 to heat up at a constant operating power. Optionally, the controller 31 can pre-store the operating power required for the constant operation of the heating element 4. The controller 31 can periodically adjust the second PWM signal according to the operating power and send the second PWM signal to the switching module 32 to control the heating element 4 to heat up at a constant temperature.

[0053] In some embodiments of this application, the controller 31 is further configured to output a shutdown signal to the switch module 32 when it does not receive the second electrical signal transmitted by the contact detection unit 2. The shutdown signal is used to control the switch module 32 to keep the power supply 5 and the heating element 4 disconnected, thereby controlling the power supply 5 to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element 4, causing the heating element 4 to stop working. That is, the shutdown signal is used to control the on-time percentage of the switch module 32 to be 0. For example, the shutdown signal is a third PWM signal with a duty cycle of 0.

[0054] Specifically, optionally, the controller 31 is configured to output a shutdown signal when it does not receive the second electrical signal transmitted by the contact detection unit 2, so that the switch module 32 responds to the shutdown signal to cut off the power supply circuit formed by the heating element 4 and the power supply 5, so that the power supply 5 stops providing the working voltage to the heating element 4, thereby controlling the heating element 4 to stop working, fundamentally preventing the airflow detection unit 1 from detecting non-human-triggered suction action and causing the equipment to start up automatically, thus ensuring the reliability of the equipment startup.

[0055] In some embodiments, the duty cycle of the first PWM signal ranges from [1%, 10%]. The duty cycle of the second PWM signal ranges from [50%, 100%]. For example, the duty cycle of the first PWM signal can be 1%, 5%, or 10%, etc. The duty cycle of the second PWM signal can be 50%, 70%, or 100%, etc.

[0056] In some implementations of this application, such as Figure 4 As shown, the switching module 32 includes a power switching transistor 321. The control terminal of the power switching transistor 321 is connected to the controller 31, the input terminal of the power switching transistor 321 is connected to the power supply 5, and the output terminal of the power switching transistor 321 is grounded through the heating element 4. Figure 4 In this context, power supply B+ represents power supply 5.

[0057] Specifically, the controller 31 can be configured to output a first PWM signal to the control terminal of the power switch 321 when the second electrical signal is received, so that the power switch 321 alternately turns on and off in response to the first PWM signal, in order to control the heating element 4 to work according to the preheating power.

[0058] The controller 31 is also configured to output a second PWM signal to the control terminal of the power switch 321 when the first electrical signal is received within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, so that the power switch 321 alternately turns on and off in response to the second PWM signal, thereby increasing the operating power of the heating element 4.

[0059] The controller 31 is also configured to output a turn-off signal to the control terminal of the power switch 321 when no second electrical signal is received, so that the power switch 321 remains off in response to the turn-off signal, thereby causing the heating element 4 to stop working.

[0060] In some embodiments, the power switch 321 may be a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOS) or an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), etc.

[0061] As an example, the power switch 321 can be an NMOS transistor 321. Accordingly, the control terminal of the power switch 321 refers to the gate, the output terminal refers to the source, and the input terminal refers to the drain. The power switch 321 is turned on when it receives a high-level signal at the gate and turned off when it receives a low-level signal.

[0062] As another example, the power switch 321 can be a PMOS transistor. Accordingly, the control terminal of the power switch 321 refers to the gate, the output terminal refers to the drain, and the input terminal refers to the source. The power switch 321 turns on when it receives a low-level signal at the gate and turns off when it receives a high-level signal.

[0063] In an alternative case, such as Figure 4 As shown, the switching module 32 further includes a first resistor 322 and a second resistor 323. The first end of the first resistor 322 is connected to the controller 31, and the second end of the first resistor 322 is connected to the control terminal of the power switch 321. The first end of the second resistor 323 is connected to the control terminal of the power switch 321, and the second end of the second resistor 323 is connected to the input terminal of the power switch 321.

[0064] When the controller 31 outputs control signals (a collective term for the first PWM signal, the second PWM signal, and the turn-off signal) to the power switch 321, the first resistor 322 can suppress the inrush current of the high-level signal in the control signal, preventing damage to the power switch 321 due to current overshoot and ensuring the stability of the control signal. The second resistor 323 can accelerate the turn-off process of the power switch 321, preventing slow turn-off or false turn-on phenomena, and improving the switching efficiency of the power switch 321.

[0065] In this embodiment, the contact detection unit 2 is configured to transmit a second electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to a preset sensing signal. Alternatively, as... Figure 5As shown, the contact detection unit 2 also includes: a touch sensing key 21, a reference capacitor 22, and a data processing module 23.

[0066] One end of the reference capacitor 22 is grounded, and the other end of the reference capacitor 22 is connected to the touch sensing key 21 and the capacitance sensing port of the data processing module 23 respectively. The detection output terminal of the data processing module 23 is connected to the control unit 3. The data processing module 23 is configured to output a second electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to a preset sensing signal indicating that the capacitance change of the capacitance sensing port exceeds the change threshold.

[0067] In an optional embodiment of this application, when the touch-sensitive key 21 is not in contact with a human body, the capacitance value of the capacitive sensing port of the data processing module 23 is a fixed value. When a human body comes into contact with the touch-sensitive key 21, the capacitive sensing port will introduce the capacitance to ground of the human body, causing the capacitance value of the capacitive sensing port to change. Obviously, the change in the capacitance value of the capacitive sensing port can indicate whether a human body has come into contact with the touch-sensitive key 21.

[0068] Based on this, the data processing module 23 can be configured to detect whether the capacitance change of the capacitive sensing port exceeds a change threshold to generate a detection result signal. The detection result signal is either a preset sensing signal or a second sensing signal. The preset sensing signal is an electrical signal indicating that the capacitance change of the capacitive sensing port exceeds the change threshold, i.e., an electrical signal indicating that the touch sensing key 21 is in contact with the human body. The second sensing signal is an electrical signal indicating that the capacitance change of the capacitive sensing port does not exceed the change threshold, i.e., an electrical signal indicating that the touch sensing key 21 is not in contact with the human body. The data processing module 23 is configured to output a second electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to the preset sensing signal; and to output a fourth electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to the second sensing signal.

[0069] Alternatively, please continue to refer to Figure 5 The contact detection unit 2 also includes a current-limiting resistor 24. The current-limiting resistor 24 is disposed between the touch sensing key 21 and the capacitive sensing port and is configured to limit the peak current flowing into the capacitive sensing port.

[0070] In an optional embodiment of this application, when a human body touches the touch sensing key 21, the current generated by the touch sensing key 21 flows into the capacitive sensing port through the current limiting resistor 24 to limit the peak current flowing into the capacitive sensing port and protect the capacitive sensing port.

[0071] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the data processing module 23 may include chip U2. The VDD pin of chip U2 is connected to power supply 5. The TBM pin, VGM pin, and GND pin of chip U2 are all grounded.

[0072] With the TBM pin grounded, a low-level signal is applied to the TBM pin, causing the contact detection unit 2 to operate in synchronous mode. In synchronous mode, the contact detection unit 2 is configured to detect in real time whether the touch sensing key 21 is in contact with the human body, and output a second electrical signal in response to a preset sensing signal indicating that the touch sensing key 21 is in contact with the human body; and output a fourth electrical signal in response to a sensing signal indicating that the touch sensing key 21 is not in contact with the human body (e.g., the second sensing signal). With the VGM pin grounded, a low-level signal is applied to the VGM pin, causing the second electrical signal output by the contact detection unit 2 to be a high-level signal and the fourth electrical signal to be a low-level signal.

[0073] The KEY port (i.e., the capacitive sensing port) of chip U2 is connected to the touch sensing key 21, and the other end of the reference capacitor 22 is connected to it. A current-limiting resistor 24 is placed between the touch sensing key 21 and the other end of the reference capacitor 22. One end of the capacitor is grounded.

[0074] The OUT pin (i.e., the detection output terminal) of chip U2 is connected to control unit 3. Chip U2 is configured to detect whether the capacitance change of the capacitance sensing port exceeds a threshold value to generate a detection result signal. When the detection result signal is a preset sensing signal, indicating that the capacitance change of the capacitance sensing port exceeds the threshold value, a second electrical signal is output to control unit 3; when the detection result signal is the second sensing signal, indicating that the capacitance change of the capacitance sensing port does not exceed the threshold value, a fourth electrical signal is output to control unit 3.

[0075] It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the contact detection unit 2 may include a pressure sensor and a second data processing module. The pressure sensor and the second data processing module are connected. When a user touches and presses the pressure sensor, the pressure sensor can output a larger pressure value to the second data processing module. When the user does not touch the pressure sensor, the pressure sensor can output a smaller pressure value to the second data processing module. Obviously, the change in pressure value detected by the pressure sensor can indicate whether the contact detection unit 2 is in contact with the human body.

[0076] Based on this, the data processing module 23 can be configured to detect whether the pressure value output by the pressure sensor exceeds a pressure threshold to generate a detection result signal, which is either a preset sensing signal or a third sensing signal. The preset sensing signal is an electrical signal indicating that the pressure value output by the pressure sensor exceeds the pressure threshold, i.e., an electrical signal indicating that the contact detection unit 2 is in contact with the human body. The third sensing signal is an electrical signal indicating that the pressure value output by the pressure sensor does not exceed the pressure threshold, i.e., an electrical signal indicating that the contact detection unit 2 is not in contact with the human body. The data processing module 23 is configured to output a second electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to the preset sensing signal; and to output a fourth electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to the third sensing signal. Of course, the contact detection unit 2 can also have other structures, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0077] In this embodiment, the airflow detection unit 1 is configured to detect a suction action. In one optional implementation, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the airflow detection unit 1 includes an airflow data processing module U3. The first port of the airflow data processing module U3 is grounded, the second port of the airflow data processing module U3 is connected to the control unit 3, and the third port of the airflow data processing module U3 is connected to the power supply 5. The airflow data processing module U3 is configured to output a first electrical signal to the control unit 3 in response to a suction action; and to output a third electrical signal to the control module in response to no suction action being detected. Optionally, the airflow data processing module U3 may include a chip of model S085. Figure 7 In this context, power supply B+ represents power supply 5.

[0078] In some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 8 As shown, the contact detection unit 2 can be disposed on the mouthpiece 6. Correspondingly, a preset sensing signal indicates that the contact detection unit 2 contacts the lips of the user. Therefore, it can be understood that the contact detection unit 2 can transmit a second electrical signal to the control unit 3 upon contact with the lips. In some embodiments, the activation protection circuit can be configured as an atomizing device, and the mouthpiece 6 is a component in the atomizing device for the user to inhale vapor. As an example, the atomizing device is an electronic cigarette. The mouthpiece 6 refers to the mouthpiece of an electronic cigarette. As another example, the atomizing device is a medical nebulizer. The mouthpiece 6 refers to the inhalation nozzle of a medical nebulizer.

[0079] Users need to contact the suction nozzle 6 with their lips to inhale the mist produced by the atomizing device. Therefore, by placing the contact detection unit 2 on the suction nozzle 6, it can detect whether the lips are in contact with the device. This allows the control unit 3 to more accurately determine whether the suction action detected by the airflow detection unit 1 is a user-triggered action. Thus, when the airflow detection unit 1 detects a suction action and the contact detection unit 2 is in contact with the lips, the control unit 3 can accurately determine that the suction action detected by the airflow detection unit 1 is a user-triggered action before controlling the heating element 4 to operate at a higher power, effectively preventing the atomizing device from automatically starting due to its own malfunction.

[0080] Optionally, the contact detection unit 2 is disposed on the suction nozzle 6. When the user's lips contact the suction nozzle 6 for suction, the contact detection unit 2 can generate a second electrical signal in response to the user's lips contacting the contact detection unit 2, and output the second electrical signal to the control unit 3. Further optionally, the contact detection unit 2 can generate a fourth electrical signal in response to the user's lips not contacting the contact detection unit 2, and output the fourth electrical signal to the control unit 3.

[0081] In other embodiments of this application, the contact detection unit 2 may also be located outside the suction nozzle 6 in the atomizing device. For example, the contact detection unit 2 may be located at the handheld position of the atomizing device. Accordingly, a preset sensing signal indicates that the contact detection unit 2 is in contact with the user's hand. Therefore, the function of the contact detection unit 2 can be understood as detecting whether it is in contact with the user's hand to determine whether the user is holding the atomizing device.

[0082] Users typically need to hold the atomizing device and inhale the vapor it produces. Therefore, by placing the contact detection unit 2 at the handheld position of the atomizing device, it can be configured to detect whether the user is holding the atomizing device, allowing the control unit 3 to determine whether the inhalation action detected by the airflow detection unit 1 is a user-triggered action. Thus, the control unit 3 is configured to control the heating element 4 to operate at higher power only when the airflow detection unit 1 detects an inhalation action and the contact detection unit 2 is in contact with the user's hand, confirming that the inhalation action detected by the airflow detection unit 1 is a user-triggered action. This effectively prevents non-human-induced inhalation actions such as condensation from triggering the inhalation action, thus improving the device's startup reliability and operational safety.

[0083] Optionally, the contact detection unit 2 is located at the handheld position of the atomizing device. When the user holds the atomizing device and inhales, the contact detection unit 2 can generate a second electrical signal upon contact with the user's hand and output the second electrical signal to the control unit 3. Further optionally, the contact detection unit 2 can generate a fourth electrical signal without contacting the user's hand and output the fourth electrical signal to the control unit 3.

[0084] In some embodiments of this application, the control unit 3 may also be configured to directly control the operating voltage output by the power supply 5 to regulate the operating voltage of the heating element 4, thereby regulating the operating power of the heating element 4. Optionally, the control unit 3 may also be configured to directly control the power supply 5 to output a first operating voltage to the heating element 4 according to a first mode when a second electrical signal is received. Furthermore, the control unit 3 may be configured to directly control the power supply 5 to output a second operating voltage to the heating element 4 according to a second mode when the first electrical signal is received within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal. The second operating voltage is greater than the first operating voltage. And the control unit 3 may be configured to directly control the power supply 5 to stop outputting an operating voltage to the heating element 4 when no second electrical signal is received.

[0085] Under the control of the startup protection circuit of this application, the heating element will only operate based on different voltages supplied by the power supply, depending on whether the airflow detection unit detects a suction action, after the contact detection unit responds to a preset sensing signal. Clearly, the prerequisite for the heating element to start in response to a suction action in the startup protection circuit of this application is that the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal. Compared to related technologies where the heating element only starts in response to a suction action, the technical solution of this application effectively reduces the probability of the atomizing device erroneously starting due to the airflow detection unit's false detection of a suction action by adding a precondition. This prevents the atomizing device from continuously heating the heating element, wasting power, and posing a risk of spontaneous combustion due to self-starting, thereby improving the device's lifespan and safety. Furthermore, under the control of the startup protection circuit of this application, the heating element can operate at a lower voltage even when the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal but the airflow detection unit does not detect a suction action. This allows the heating element to preheat before the user inhales, improving the atomization uniformity of the atomizing device and enhancing the user experience.

[0086] For ease of understanding, the following examples further illustrate the startup protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application. For example, as shown... Figure 9 As shown, the start-up protection circuit includes: airflow detection unit 1, contact detection unit 2, and control unit 3. Figure 9 In this context, power supply B+ represents power supply 5.

[0087] The airflow detection unit 1 includes an airflow data processing module U3. The airflow data processing module U3 is configured to output a high-level signal (i.e., a first electrical signal) to the controller 31 in response to a suction action. The airflow data processing module U3 is also configured to output a low-level signal (i.e., a third electrical signal) to the controller 31 in response to the absence of a suction action.

[0088] The contact detection unit 2 includes a touch sensing key 21, a reference capacitor 22, a chip U2, and a current-limiting resistor 24. The chip U2 is configured to detect whether the capacitance change at the capacitive sensing port exceeds a threshold. If the capacitance change at the capacitive sensing port exceeds the threshold, indicating that a human body has touched the touch sensing key 21, the chip U2 outputs a high-level signal (i.e., a second electrical signal) to the controller 31. If the capacitance change at the capacitive sensing port does not exceed the threshold, indicating that the touch sensing key 21 has not received a human body contact, the chip U2 outputs a low-level signal (i.e., a fourth electrical signal) to the controller 31.

[0089] The control unit 3 includes a controller 31 and a switching module 32. The controller 31 includes an MCU U1. The switching module 32 includes a power switch 321, a first resistor 322, and a resistor. The power switch 321 is an NMOS transistor 321. The control terminal of the NMOS transistor is turned on when a high-level signal 1 is received, and turned off when a low-level signal 0 is received.

[0090] The specific control logic of controller 31 is shown in Table 1.

[0091] Table 1 Specifically, the controller 31 is configured to send a first PWM signal to the NMOS transistor 321 when it receives a low-level signal 0 from the airflow data processing module U3 within a preset time period after receiving a high-level signal 1 from the chip U2. The duty cycle of the first PWM signal is in the range of [1%, 10%] to control the heating element 4 to operate according to the preheating power.

[0092] The controller 31 is also configured to send a second PWM signal to the NMOS transistor 321 upon receiving a high-level signal 1 from both the chip U2 and the airflow data processing module U3. The duty cycle of the second PWM signal is [50%, 100%] to increase the operating power of the heating element 4 to the power required by the user.

[0093] The controller 31 is also configured to send a PWM signal with a duty cycle of 0 (i.e., a turn-off signal) to the NMOS transistor 321 when it receives a low-level signal 0 from the chip U2 and a high-level signal 1 from the airflow data processing module U3, or when it receives a low-level signal 0 from the chip U2 and a low-level signal 0 from the airflow data processing module U3, so as to control the heating element 4 to stop working.

[0094] In this embodiment, the activation protection circuit includes an airflow detection unit, a contact detection unit, and a control unit. The airflow detection unit is connected to the control unit and transmits a first electrical signal to the control unit in response to a suction action. The contact detection unit is also connected to the control unit and transmits a second electrical signal to the control unit in response to a preset sensing signal. The control unit is configured to be connected to a heating element and a power supply. The control unit is configured to, upon receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a first mode; and to, upon receiving the first electrical signal within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a second mode; and to, if the second electrical signal is not received, control the power supply to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element.

[0095] In this application, the operating voltage provided by the power supply in the second mode is higher than that in the first mode. Under the control of the startup protection circuit, the heating element will only operate based on the voltage provided by the power supply, depending on whether the airflow detection unit detects a suction action, if the contact detection unit responds to a preset sensing signal. Clearly, the prerequisite for the heating element to start in response to a suction action in the startup protection circuit of this application is that the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal. Compared to related technologies where the heating element only starts in response to a suction action, this application's technical solution effectively reduces the probability of the atomizing device erroneously starting due to the airflow detection unit's false detection of a suction action by adding a precondition. This prevents the atomizing device from continuously heating the heating element, wasting power, and posing a risk of spontaneous combustion due to self-starting, thus improving the device's lifespan and safety. Furthermore, under the control of the startup protection circuit of this application, the heating element can operate at a lower voltage even if the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal but the airflow detection unit does not detect a suction action. This allows the heating element to preheat before the user inhales, improving the atomization uniformity of the atomizing device and enhancing the user experience.

[0096] This application also provides an atomizing device, which includes any of the start-up protection circuits provided in this application. The start-up protection circuit includes an airflow detection unit, a contact detection unit, and a control unit. The airflow detection unit is connected to the control unit and transmits a first electrical signal to the control unit in response to a suction action. The contact detection unit is connected to the control unit and transmits a second electrical signal to the control unit in response to a preset sensing signal. The control unit is configured to be connected to a heating element and a power supply. The control unit is configured to, upon receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a first mode; and the control unit is configured to, upon receiving the first electrical signal within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a second mode; and the control unit is configured to, upon not receiving the second electrical signal, control the power supply to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element.

[0097] In this application, the operating voltage provided by the power supply in the second mode is higher than that in the first mode. Under the control of the startup protection circuit, the heating element will only operate based on the voltage provided by the power supply, depending on whether the airflow detection unit detects a suction action, if the contact detection unit responds to a preset sensing signal. Clearly, the prerequisite for the heating element to start in response to a suction action in the startup protection circuit of this application is that the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal. Compared to related technologies where the heating element only starts in response to a suction action, this application's technical solution effectively reduces the probability of the atomizing device erroneously starting due to the airflow detection unit's false detection of a suction action by adding a precondition. This prevents the atomizing device from continuously heating the heating element, wasting power, and posing a risk of spontaneous combustion due to self-starting, thus improving the device's lifespan and safety. Furthermore, under the control of the startup protection circuit of this application, the heating element can operate at a lower voltage even if the contact detection unit responds to the preset sensing signal but the airflow detection unit does not detect a suction action. This allows the heating element to preheat before the user inhales, improving the atomization uniformity of the atomizing device and enhancing the user experience.

[0098] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

[0099] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A startup protection circuit, characterized in that, The startup protection circuit includes: an airflow detection unit, a contact detection unit, and a control unit; The airflow detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the airflow detection unit transmits a first electrical signal to the control unit in response to the suction action; The contact detection unit is connected to the control unit, and the contact detection unit transmits a second electrical signal to the control unit in response to a preset sensing signal. The control unit is configured to be connected to the heating element and the power supply, and the control unit is configured to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element in a first mode upon receiving the second electrical signal; Furthermore, the control unit is configured to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element in a second mode when the first electrical signal is received within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, wherein the operating voltage provided by the power supply in the second mode is greater than the operating voltage provided in the first mode; Furthermore, the control unit is configured to control the power supply to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element when the second electrical signal is not received.

2. The startup protection circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ratio of the operating voltage provided by the power supply in the second mode to the operating voltage provided in the first mode is in the range of [100, 10].

3. The startup protection circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset time ranges from [0, 2] seconds.

4. The startup protection circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit includes: a controller and a switch module; The switching module is connected to the controller, the power supply and the heating element respectively, and is configured to connect or disconnect the power supply and the heating element under the control of the controller. The controller is also connected to the airflow detection unit and the contact detection unit, and is configured to output a first PWM signal to the switching module upon receiving the second electrical signal. The duty cycle of the first PWM signal is less than the target ratio to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element in the first mode.

5. The startup protection circuit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The controller is configured to output a second PWM signal to the switching module when it receives a first electrical signal within a preset time after receiving the second electrical signal, so as to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element according to a second mode. The duty cycle of the second PWM signal is greater than the target ratio, so as to control the power supply to provide operating voltage to the heating element in the second mode.

6. The startup protection circuit according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to output a shutdown signal to the switching module in the absence of receiving the second electrical signal. The shutdown signal is used to control the switching module to keep the power supply and the heating element disconnected, so as to control the power supply to stop providing operating voltage to the heating element.

7. The startup protection circuit according to claim 5, characterized in that, The duty cycle of the first PWM signal ranges from [1%, 10%]; the duty cycle of the second PWM signal ranges from [50%, 100%].

8. The startup protection circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contact detection unit also includes: a touch sensing key, a reference capacitor, and a data processing module; One end of the reference capacitor is grounded, and the other end is connected to both the touch-sensitive key and the capacitive sensing port of the data processing module. The detection output of the data processing module is connected to the control unit. The data processing module is configured to output the second electrical signal to the control unit in response to a preset sensing signal indicating that the capacitance change at the capacitance sensing port exceeds a change threshold.

9. The startup protection circuit according to claim 8, characterized in that, The contact detection unit further includes: a current-limiting resistor; The current-limiting resistor is disposed between the touch-sensitive key and the capacitive sensing port and is configured to limit the peak current flowing into the capacitive sensing port.

10. The startup protection circuit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The switching module includes: a power switching transistor; The control terminal of the power switch is connected to the controller, the input terminal of the power switch is connected to the power supply, and the output terminal of the power switch is grounded through the heating element.

11. The startup protection circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contact detection unit is located at the suction nozzle.

12. An atomizing device, characterized in that, The atomizing device includes the start-up protection circuit as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

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