Energy supply circuit and aerosol-generating device

Abstract

The application discloses a power supply circuit for supplying power to a power consumer, wherein the working stage of the power consumer includes a preheating stage, and the power supply circuit comprises: a first power supply module; a second power supply module with a larger energy storage capacity than the first power supply module; and a switching unit configured to receive a control signal to turn on the second power supply module and the power consumer in the preheating stage, turn off the first power supply module and the power consumer, and supply power to the power consumer by the second power supply module for preheating; and when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the power consumer, the switching unit can turn on the first power supply module and the power consumer, turn off the second power supply module and the power consumer, and supply power to the power consumer by the first power supply module. The circuit can intelligently switch the power supply source in different working stages, preheat by the second power supply module with a large capacity, and solve the problems of shortened endurance and reduced efficiency of the first power supply module with a small capacity due to high-rate discharge. The application also discloses an aerosol generating device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of novel tobacco products and smoking accessories, specifically to a power supply circuit and an aerosol generating device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, commercially available split-type heated tobacco products typically consist of two parts: a heating element and a charging box. The heating element contains a battery and a heating element, while the charging box charges the battery. When users use these devices to heat aerosol-generated products, the heating element usually undergoes a preheating phase, rapidly rising from ambient temperature to operating temperature within a short time, before entering a constant-temperature heating phase to continuously generate aerosols. Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the preheating circuit of a conventional split-type heated non-combustible smoke appliance in the prior art. Conventional split-type devices typically include a charging box with battery A and an electric heating smoke appliance with battery B. Battery A and battery B are electrically connected via contacts V and G. Battery A is only used to charge battery B. After charging is completed, battery B supplies power to the entire working stage of the electric heating smoke appliance, including the preheating stage which requires a large current and the constant temperature heating stage which requires a small current.

[0003] Due to the limitations of battery mechanisms, a battery's discharge current is typically proportional to its capacity. A large current is needed for the device's preheating phase, while a small current is needed to maintain a constant temperature. To achieve portability and miniaturization, the device's main body is often limited by internal space, typically requiring a smaller battery volume, which translates to a smaller capacity. Compared to a large-volume battery (i.e., a large-capacity battery), at the same discharge rate, a small-volume battery requires a significantly smaller discharge current, thus requiring more time for preheating.

[0004] To achieve the same discharge current, i.e., to ensure the same preheating time, small-volume batteries need to sacrifice battery capacity and discharge at a higher rate. This approach not only leads to insufficient battery life for small-volume batteries, but the higher discharge rate also results in lower energy utilization. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention proposes a power supply circuit and an aerosol generating device to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention disclose a power supply circuit for supplying power to an energy-consuming body, wherein the working stage of the energy-consuming body includes a preheating stage, and the power supply circuit includes:

[0007] The first power supply module is electrically connected to the energy-consuming body;

[0008] The second power supply module is electrically connected to the energy-consuming body, and the energy storage capacity of the second power supply module is greater than that of the first power supply module.

[0009] A switching unit is electrically connected to the first power supply module, the second power supply module, and the energy-consuming body, respectively. The switching unit is configured to: receive a control signal to connect the second power supply module and the energy-consuming body during the preheating phase, disconnect the first power supply module from the energy-consuming body, and supply energy to the energy-consuming body from the second power supply module for preheating; and connect the first power supply module and the energy-consuming body when the second power supply module stops supplying energy to the energy-consuming body, disconnect the second power supply module from the energy-consuming body, and supply energy to the energy-consuming body from the first power supply module.

[0010] By employing the above technical solution, and by setting up a first energy supply module and a second energy supply module with different energy storage capacities, and using a switching unit to receive control signals for selective conduction, the second energy supply module with a larger energy storage capacity directly supplies power to the energy-consuming device during the preheating phase, providing a sufficiently large preheating current and effectively shortening the preheating time. In other phases, when the energy-consuming device needs to operate, the power supply can be switched to the first energy supply module with a smaller energy storage capacity. Therefore, the smaller-capacity first energy supply module does not require high-rate discharge capability, while the larger-capacity second energy supply module is dedicated to handling the high-power demands of the preheating phase, thus achieving an optimized balance between preheating speed and range, and improving range.

[0011] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the second power supply module can also be electrically connected to the first power supply module, and the switching unit is further configured to: when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the energy-consuming body, it can connect the first power supply module and the second power supply module, and the second power supply module charges the first power supply module.

[0012] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the switching unit includes:

[0013] A first switch, the first end of which is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the second end of which is electrically connected to the energy-consuming body;

[0014] The second switch has a first end electrically connected to the second power supply module and a second end electrically connected to the first power supply module.

[0015] When the control signal is the first signal, the first switch is closed to connect the second power supply module and the energy consumption body, and the second switch is open; when the control signal is the second signal, the second switch is closed to connect the first power supply module and the second power supply module, and the first switch is open, and the second signal is different from the first signal.

[0016] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the power supply circuit further includes:

[0017] A first switching module includes a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal. The signal input terminal of the first switching module is used to receive the control signal, and the signal output terminal of the first switching module is electrically connected to the first switch to control whether the first switch is closed or open.

[0018] And / or, a second switching module, the second switching module including a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal, the signal input terminal of the second switching module being used to receive the control signal, and the signal output terminal of the second switching module being electrically connected to the second switch to control whether the second switch is closed or open.

[0019] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention:

[0020] The first switching module includes a third MOS transistor, the gate of which is used to receive a control signal, the source of which is grounded, and the drain of which is electrically connected to the first switch; wherein, when the control signal received by the third MOS transistor is the first signal, the third MOS transistor is turned on, and the first switch is closed.

[0021] And / or, the second switching module includes a first MOSFET, the gate of which is used to receive a control signal, the source of which is grounded, and the drain of which is electrically connected to the second switch; wherein, when the control signal received by the first MOSFET is the second signal, the first MOSFET is turned on, and the second switch is closed.

[0022] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention:

[0023] The first switch is a fourth MOS transistor, the gate of the fourth MOS transistor is electrically connected to the drain of the third MOS transistor, the source of the fourth MOS transistor is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the drain of the fourth MOS transistor is electrically connected to the power consumption body.

[0024] And / or, the second switch is a second MOSFET, the gate of the second MOSFET is electrically connected to the drain of the first MOSFET, the source of the second MOSFET is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the drain of the second MOSFET is electrically connected to the first power supply module.

[0025] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, a diode is further included, wherein the anode of the diode is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the cathode of the diode is electrically connected to the first power supply module.

[0026] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the power supply circuit further includes a voltage regulator module, which is connected in parallel with the first power supply module and / or the second power supply module.

[0027] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention disclose an aerosol generating apparatus, comprising:

[0028] Power supply components, including a second power supply module;

[0029] The main component, detachably connected to the power supply component, includes: a first power supply module, the energy storage capacity of which is less than that of the second power supply module; a heating element, electrically connected to both the first and second power supply modules, the heating element's operating phase including a preheating phase; and a switching unit, electrically connected to the first, second, and heating elements, the switching unit being configured to: receive a control signal to connect the second power supply module and the heating element during the preheating phase, disconnecting the first power supply module from the heating element, and supplying power to the heating element from the second power supply module for preheating; and connect the first power supply module and the heating element when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the heating element, disconnecting the second power supply module from the heating element, and supplying power to the heating element from the first power supply module.

[0030] By employing the above technical solution, and by setting up a first energy supply module and a second energy supply module with different energy storage capacities, and using a switching unit to receive control signals for selective conduction, the second energy supply module with a larger energy storage capacity directly supplies power to the energy-consuming device during the preheating phase, providing a sufficiently large preheating current and effectively shortening the preheating time. In other phases, when the energy-consuming device needs to operate, the power supply can be switched to the first energy supply module with a smaller energy storage capacity. Therefore, the smaller-capacity first energy supply module does not require high-rate discharge capability, while the larger-capacity second energy supply module is dedicated to handling the high-power demands of the preheating phase, thus achieving an optimized balance between preheating speed and range, and improving range.

[0031] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the working stage of the heating element further includes a heating stage after the preheating stage. In the heating stage, the switching unit connects the first power supply module and the heating element, and the first power supply module supplies power to the heating element for heating.

[0032] According to another specific embodiment of the present invention, the first power supply module is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the switching unit is further configured to: when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the heating component, it can connect the first power supply module and the second power supply module, and the second power supply module charges the first power supply module. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the power supply circuit in the prior art is shown;

[0034] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the power supply circuit in an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification. Although the description of the present invention is presented in conjunction with preferred embodiments, this does not mean that the features of the invention are limited to these embodiments. On the contrary, the purpose of describing the invention in conjunction with embodiments is to cover other options or modifications that may be derived based on the claims of the present invention. To provide a deep understanding of the invention, many specific details will be included in the following description. The invention may also be implemented without using these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion or obscuring the focus of the invention, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other.

[0036] It should be noted that in this specification, similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0037] The terms “first”, “second”, etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be interpreted as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0038] The term "aerosol generating matrix" includes materials that provide volatile components when heated, and may include any tobacco-containing material, such as one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. "Aerosol generating matrix" may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

[0039] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Firstly, reference Figure 2 The present invention discloses a power supply circuit for supplying power to an energy-consuming body, wherein the working stage of the energy-consuming body includes a preheating stage.

[0041] The power supply circuit mainly includes a first power supply module (i.e., battery B), a second power supply module (i.e., battery A), and a switching unit composed of multiple electronic switches. Exemplarily, the power supply circuit is used in a split-type aerosol generating device, which includes a power supply component and a main component. The second power supply module is located within the power supply component, and the first power supply module is located within the main component. The second power supply module A is connected to the input terminal of the corresponding local circuit of the second power supply module located within the main component via a first contact V and a second contact G. The first power supply module can be electrically connected to an energy-consuming element to supply power to it. The power supply circuit also includes a direct power supply output terminal PWR_OUT, connected to the energy-consuming element. The second power supply module can be electrically connected to the energy-consuming element via the direct power supply output terminal PWR_OUT to directly supply power to the energy-consuming element when the first power supply module does not supply power. The energy storage capacity of the second power supply module is greater than that of the first power supply module.

[0042] The switching unit can be electrically connected to the first power supply module, the second power supply module, and the energy-consuming body, respectively. The switching unit is configured to receive control signals to connect the second power supply module and the energy-consuming body during the preheating phase, disconnect the first power supply module from the energy-consuming body, and supply energy to the energy-consuming body from the second power supply module for preheating; when the second power supply module stops supplying energy to the energy-consuming body, it can connect the first power supply module and the energy-consuming body, disconnect the second power supply module from the energy-consuming body, and supply energy to the energy-consuming body from the first power supply module.

[0043] That is, the second power supply module is used to directly supply a large current to the energy-consuming body during the preheating stage; when the energy-consuming body is in a working stage other than the preheating stage, the first power supply module is used to supply power to the energy-consuming body, wherein the working stage other than the preheating stage includes at least the heating stage.

[0044] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The power supply circuit is equipped with a control signal input terminal (Switch) to receive control signals from the control unit (e.g., Figure 2 (SIG in the text). The switching unit can be electrically connected to the control signal input terminal Switch. The switching unit can receive control signals provided by the control signal input terminal Switch to selectively conduct different power supply paths according to the working stage of the energy-consuming body.

[0045] In the above technical solution, by setting up a first energy supply module and a second energy supply module with different energy storage capacities, and using a switching unit to receive control signals for selective conduction, the second energy supply module with a larger energy storage capacity directly supplies power to the energy-consuming element during the preheating stage, providing a sufficiently large preheating current, effectively shortening the preheating time, and achieving rapid preheating. In other stages besides the preheating stage, when the energy-consuming element needs to operate, the power supply can be switched to the first energy supply module with a smaller energy storage capacity. For example, in the heating stage after the preheating stage, power can be supplied by the first energy supply module.

[0046] This enables intelligent, phased power supply. The smaller-capacity first power module does not require high-rate discharge, while the larger-capacity second power module is dedicated to handling the high-power demands of the preheating phase. This achieves an optimized balance between preheating speed and battery life, thus improving overall battery life. Furthermore, since the smaller-capacity first power module no longer needs to perform high-rate discharge, its energy loss and workload are reduced, thereby increasing the battery life after a single charge, improving energy efficiency, and extending the overall lifespan of the device.

[0047] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, reference is made to... Figure 2 The second power supply module can also be electrically connected to the first power supply module. The switching unit is further configured to connect the first and second power supply modules when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the energy-consuming device, allowing the second power supply module to charge the first power supply module. The period during which the second power supply module stops supplying power to the energy-consuming device can be understood as a non-preheating phase. This non-preheating phase can include all operating phases of the energy-consuming device other than the preheating phase, and can also include phases during which the energy-consuming device is not operating (e.g., standby phase).

[0048] In this embodiment, the second power supply module can switch between two states: supplying power to the energy-consuming element and charging the first power supply module. More specifically, the second power supply module can output a voltage V_IN, which is transmitted to the core voltage port VICC via contacts V and G. The core voltage port VICC then supplies power to various branches in the power supply circuit, including at least a power supply output branch for the second power supply module to supply power to the energy-consuming element and a charging output branch for the second power supply module to charge the first power supply module. The power supply output branch and the charging output branch are independent of each other, but they can share a single control signal input terminal SWITCH for on / off control. The power supply circuit includes a charging output terminal CHG_OUT, which is connected to the first power supply module. The second power supply module can charge the first power supply module through the charging output terminal CHG_OUT.

[0049] In this way, the second power supply module can not only supply a large current to the energy-consuming element during the preheating stage, but also charge the first power supply module in other stages, so that the first power supply module can maintain a sufficient power supply and further extend the overall battery life.

[0050] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the operating mode of the power supply circuit is determined by the control signal received by the control signal input terminal Switch. (Continuing to refer to...) Figure 2 The switching unit includes a first switch and a second switch. The first terminal of the first switch is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the second terminal of the first switch is electrically connected to the energy-consuming element. The first terminal of the second switch is electrically connected to the second power supply module (more specifically, the first terminal of the second switch is electrically connected to the second power supply module via port VICC), and the second terminal of the second switch is electrically connected to the first power supply module. When the control signal is the first signal, the first switch closes to connect the second power supply module and the energy-consuming element, and the second switch opens. When the control signal is the second signal, the second switch closes to connect both the first and second power supply modules, and the first switch opens. The second signal is different from the first signal.

[0051] In the above technical solution, by using the mutual exclusion control of the first switch and the second switch, that is, only one of the first switch and the second switch is turned on at any given time, it can be ensured that there is only one effective power supply path at any time. This can reduce the risk of current conflict caused by two power supply paths being turned on at the same time, and improve the safety of the circuit. At the same time, the above method makes the switching unit not require a complex logic coordination mechanism, and only a single control signal is needed to realize the state switching, which simplifies the control logic and circuit structure and helps to ensure the stability and reliability of circuit operation.

[0052] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the power supply circuit further includes a first switching module, which includes a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal. The signal input terminal of the first switching module is used to receive control signals. Specifically, the signal input terminal of the first switching module is electrically connected to the control signal input terminal Switch on the power supply circuit. The signal output terminal of the first switching module is electrically connected to a first switch to control whether the first switch is closed or open. That is, the first switching module can transmit the control signal from the control signal input terminal Switch to the first switch to control whether the first switch is closed.

[0053] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the power supply circuit further includes a second switching module, which includes a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal. The signal input terminal of the second switching module is used to receive control signals. Specifically, the signal input terminal of the second switching module is electrically connected to the control signal input terminal Switch on the power supply circuit. The signal output terminal of the second switching module is electrically connected to a second switch to control whether the second switch is closed or open. That is, the second switching module can transmit the control signal from the control signal input terminal Switch to the second switch to control whether the second switch is closed.

[0054] By setting up the aforementioned switching module for signal conversion and driving, the weak control signal output by the control unit can be converted into the driving signal required to drive the first switch and the second switch. This helps ensure that different switches can be turned on or off quickly and completely, effectively reducing switching losses and heat generation. In addition, it can also achieve electrical isolation between different functional circuits in the circuit, reduce mutual interference between the control circuit and the power supply circuit, thereby improving the reliability of the entire power supply circuit.

[0055] For example, the power supply circuit may include both the first switching module and the second switching module, or it may contain only the first switching module, or it may contain only the second switching module, depending on actual needs.

[0056] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 2 The first switching module includes a third MOSFET M3. The gate of the third MOSFET M3 is used to receive a control signal. The source of the third MOSFET M3 is grounded, and the drain of the third MOSFET M3 is electrically connected to a first switch. When the control signal received by the third MOSFET M3 is the first signal, the third MOSFET M3 is turned on, thereby closing the first switch. The second switching module includes a first MOSFET M1. The gate of the first MOSFET M1 is used to receive a control signal. The source of the first MOSFET M1 is grounded, and the drain of the first MOSFET M1 is electrically connected to a second switch. When the control signal received by the first MOSFET M1 is the second signal, the first MOSFET M1 is turned on, thereby closing the second switch.

[0057] This configuration enables the conversion from logic level to drive level at a lower cost, ensuring that the weak control signal from the control unit can accurately drive different switches (i.e., the first switch and the second switch). At the same time, the first MOSFET M1 and the third MOSFET M3 are only turned on at their respective control levels, which logically guarantees that only one path is turned on at any given time, preventing drive conflicts, simplifying circuit design, and improving system reliability and safety.

[0058] Further, in the above embodiments, the second switch is a second MOSFET M2, the gate of the second MOSFET M2 is electrically connected to the drain of the first MOSFET M1, the source of the second MOSFET M2 is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the drain of the second MOSFET M2 is electrically connected to the first power supply module. The first switch is a fourth MOSFET M4, the gate of the fourth MOSFET M4 is electrically connected to the drain of the third MOSFET M3, the source of the fourth MOSFET M4 is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the drain of the fourth MOSFET M4 is electrically connected to the power consumption element.

[0059] This configuration, using MOSFETs as switches to control the on / off states of different output branches, achieves low internal resistance and high-efficiency conduction of different branches, while simplifying the control logic. By cooperating with the second switching module through the second MOSFET M2 and with the first switching module through the fourth MOSFET M4, the entire circuit can achieve mutually exclusive switching of multiple power supply paths using fewer components, resulting in lower cost and higher reliability. This ensures system safety while improving power transmission efficiency.

[0060] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the first MOSFET M1 is, for example, an N-MOSFET, and the second MOSFET M2, the third MOSFET M3, and the fourth MOSFET M4 are, for example, P-MOSFETs. In other embodiments, the different MOSFETs mentioned above can be selected from other specifications, depending on actual needs.

[0061] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the second switching module further includes a first resistor R1 and a second resistor R2. (Continue to refer to...) Figure 2 The control signal input terminal Switch is connected to the gate of the first MOSFET M1. The gate of the first MOSFET M1 is grounded through the first resistor R1. The drain of the first MOSFET M1 is connected to one end of the second resistor R2 and the gate of the second MOSFET M2. The other end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the core voltage port VICC. The source of the second MOSFET M2 is connected to the core voltage port VICC. The drain of the second MOSFET M2 serves as the charging output terminal CHG_OUT and is connected to the first power supply module.

[0062] The first resistor R1 can be used as a current-limiting pull-down resistor for the gate of the first MOSFET M1. It can limit the current of the control signal at the control signal input terminal Switch, restrict the instantaneous spike current flowing into the gate of the first MOSFET M1, and prevent the gate electrostatic discharge and overcurrent breakdown of the first MOSFET M1. It can also stably pull down the gate of the first MOSFET M1 to ground potential when the control signal at the control signal input terminal Switch is a signal to turn off the first MOSFET, ensuring that the first MOSFET M1 is reliably turned off and reducing the risk of the second MOSFET M2 being falsely turned on due to slight leakage of the first MOSFET M1.

[0063] The second resistor R2 can be used as a pull-up resistor for the gate of the second MOSFET M2. When the first MOSFET M1 is turned off, the voltage at the core voltage port VICC is quickly pulled up to the gate potential of the second MOSFET M2 through the second resistor R2, making the gate-source voltage of the second MOSFET M2 approach 0V, ensuring that the second MOSFET M2 is reliably turned off, and there is no output at the CHG_OUT port. At the same time, the second resistor R2 also has a current limiting function. When the first MOSFET M1 is turned on and pulls the gate of the second MOSFET M2 low to ground, it limits the loop current flowing from the core voltage port VICC to ground through the second resistor R2 and the first MOSFET M1, which can reduce the static power consumption of the circuit and protect the first MOSFET M1 from being damaged due to excessive conduction current.

[0064] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the first signal is, for example, a first level, which is, for example, a high level (i.e., H level); the second signal is, for example, a second level, which is, for example, a low level (i.e., L level). In other embodiments, the control signal is not limited to high or low levels, and can also be a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal, a serial communication signal, or any other electrical signal that can be recognized and decoded by the switching unit. The following example, where the first level is high and the second level is low, will be used to illustrate the operating state of the power supply circuit in the above embodiments in more detail.

[0065] When the control signal output from the Switch input terminal is high, the first MOSFET M1 is turned on, and the gate of the second MOSFET M2 is pulled to ground (GND). An effective on-state voltage difference is formed between the gate and source of the second MOSFET M2, causing it to conduct. VICC is then transmitted to CHG_OUT via the second MOSFET M2. The output voltage of CHG_OUT is approximately equal to V_IN, thus the charging output branch is active, i.e., CHG_OUT = VICC = V_IN. Simultaneously, the third MOSFET M3 is turned off, and the drive pin of the fourth MOSFET M4 is pulled high, causing the fourth MOSFET M4 to turn off, i.e., PWR_OUT = GND = 0V. Thus, the charging output branch is active, and the second power supply module can charge the first power supply module. In other words, when the first power supply module needs charging, the control signal output from the Switch input terminal can be set to level H, and the second power supply module will sequentially provide charging power to the first power supply module through contact V, diode D2, and the second MOSFET M2.

[0066] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the first switching module further includes a fourth resistor R4 and a fifth resistor R5. The fourth resistor R4 is the gate pull-up resistor of the third MOSFET M3, and the fifth resistor R5 is the gate pull-up resistor of the fourth MOSFET M4.

[0067] In this circuit, one end of the fourth resistor R4 is connected to the core voltage port VICC, and the other end is connected to the gate of the third MOSFET M3 and the control signal input terminal Switch. Continuing with the example of the first level being high and the second level being low, when the control signal output from the control signal input terminal Switch is high, the fourth resistor R4 works in conjunction with the high-level signal to stably pull up the gate potential of the third MOSFET M3, strengthening the cutoff state of the third MOSFET M3 and preventing leakage and false turn-on due to a floating gate potential. Furthermore, when the control signal output from the control signal input terminal Switch is low, the fourth resistor R4 acts as a current limiter, restricting the current discharged from the core voltage port VICC to the control signal input terminal Switch through the fourth resistor R4, reducing static power consumption, and suppressing instantaneous gate current spikes, thus providing electrostatic and surge protection for the gate of the third MOSFET M3.

[0068] The fifth resistor R5 is connected at one end to the core voltage port VICC, and at the other end to the drain of the third MOSFET M3 and the gate of the fourth MOSFET M4. When the third MOSFET M3 is off, the core voltage port VICC continuously pulls up the gate of the fourth MOSFET M4 through the fifth resistor R5, making the gate potential of the fourth MOSFET M4 almost equal to the source potential of VICC, and the gate-source voltage difference close to zero, ensuring that the fourth MOSFET M4 is reliably turned off, and there is no voltage output at the PWR_OUT port. When the third MOSFET M3 is on, the gate of the fourth MOSFET M4 is pulled to the ground potential (GND) through the third MOSFET M3. The fifth resistor R5 can limit the conduction current from the core voltage port VICC, the fifth resistor R5, the third MOSFET M3 to ground, preventing the large current in the loop from causing power supply and device losses. At the same time, it smooths out the gate level switching rate of the fourth MOSFET M4, weakens the voltage spike generated during the switching of the fourth MOSFET M4, and improves the stability of the power supply branch switching.

[0069] The following example, where the first level is high and the second level is low, will be used to illustrate the working state of the power supply circuit in the above embodiments in more detail.

[0070] refer to Figure 2 The control signal SIG is input to the gate of the third MOSFET M3 via the control signal input terminal Switch. The gate of the third MOSFET M3 is connected to the core voltage port VICC via the fourth resistor R4. The drain of the third MOSFET M3 is connected to the gate of the fifth resistor R5 and the fourth MOSFET M4 respectively. The source of the fourth MOSFET M4 is connected to the core voltage port VICC. The drain of the fourth MOSFET M4 serves as the PWR_OUT output terminal.

[0071] When the control signal output from the Switch input terminal is low, the gate potential of the third MOSFET M3 is pulled low and it turns on. The gate of the fourth MOSFET M4 is pulled low, forming a conduction voltage difference. The fourth MOSFET M4 turns on, and the core voltage port VICC outputs voltage to the PWR_OUT port through the fourth MOSFET M4. The PWR_OUT output voltage is approximately equal to V_IN, i.e., PWR_OUT = VICC = V_IN, and the power supply path is open. At the same time, the first MOSFET turns off, pulling the drive pin of the second MOSFET M2 to a high potential. The second MOSFET M2 turns off, and CHG_OUT = GND = 0V. At this time, the first power supply module is in an uncharged state, and the second power supply module can directly supply power to the output terminal PWR_OUT, which can directly use the energy for the energy-consuming element for the preheating process.

[0072] When the control signal output from the control signal input terminal Switch is high, the gate potential of the third MOSFET M3 rises and it is turned off. The core voltage port VICC pulls the gate of the fourth MOSFET M4 up to the VICC voltage through the fifth resistor R5. The fourth MOSFET M4 is turned off, and there is no voltage output at the output terminal PWR_OUT.

[0073] In other words, when the energy-consuming element of the first power supply module needs direct power from the second power supply module, the control signal output from the control signal input terminal Switch is set to a low level. The second power supply module then provides energy to the energy-consuming element of the first power supply module sequentially through the V contact, diode D2, and the fourth MOSFET M4, directly for the preheating process. Furthermore, the second power supply module can also directly supply power to the energy-consuming element for heating.

[0074] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the voltage of the core voltage port VICC can come from the second power supply module, or it can come from the first power supply module, or it can come from other external power sources.

[0075] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, reference continues to be made to... Figure 2 The power supply circuit also includes diode D2. The anode of diode D2 is electrically connected to the second power supply module to receive the output voltage V_IN of the second power supply module. The cathode of diode D2 is electrically connected to the first power supply module. More specifically, the cathode of diode D2 is connected to the core voltage port VICC, which is then electrically connected to the first power supply module via a second switch.

[0076] This configuration effectively prevents current from flowing back from the first power supply module to the second power supply module, providing reverse protection and unidirectional isolation.

[0077] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the power supply circuit further includes a voltage regulator module, which is connected in parallel with the first power supply module and / or the second power supply module. Specifically, the voltage regulator module is connected in parallel with the first power supply module, or the voltage regulator module is connected in parallel with the second power supply module, or the voltage regulator module is connected in parallel with both the first and second power supply modules.

[0078] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The voltage regulator module includes a first capacitor C1, a second capacitor C2, a third capacitor C3, and a fourth capacitor C4. The second capacitor C2 is connected in parallel with the second power supply module. One end of the second capacitor C2 is connected to contact V, and the other end is connected to contact G. This allows it to filter out noise and spikes in the output voltage V_IN, stabilizing the input voltage of the preceding stage. The first capacitor C1 is connected in parallel with the first power supply module. One end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the core voltage port VICC, and the other end is grounded. The third capacitor C3 is also connected in parallel with the second power supply module. More specifically, one end of the third capacitor C3 is connected to the cathode of diode D2 and the core voltage port VICC, and the other end is grounded. The first capacitor C1 and the third capacitor C3 can regulate and filter the voltage at the core voltage port VICC, absorbing voltage disturbances caused by different MOSFET switches. The fourth capacitor C4 is also connected in parallel with the second power supply module. More specifically, one end of the fourth capacitor C4 is connected to the first switch M4 and the power output terminal PWR_OUT, and the other end is grounded. The fourth capacitor C4 can smooth and shape the voltage output at the power supply output terminal PWR_OUT, suppress output ripple, and provide a stable power supply to the power consuming element.

[0079] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention disclose an aerosol generating device, which includes the power supply circuit described in any of the embodiments of the first aspect. The aerosol generating device includes a power supply component and a main body component. The power supply component and the main body component are detachably connected, for example by plugging, magnetic attraction, or snap-fit, to facilitate user carrying and charging.

[0080] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The power supply component has a second power supply module inside, which has a relatively large energy storage capacity. The power supply component includes, but is not limited to, charging equipment, such as a charging box.

[0081] The main component is the part directly used by the user, such as an electronic cigarette device, which integrates the parts required to achieve the core functions. The main component includes at least a primary power supply module, a heating element, and a switching unit.

[0082] The first power supply module has a relatively small energy storage capacity, and its size and weight are relatively small, ensuring the portability of the main components. The heating element is the energy-consuming component in the circuit, used to heat the aerosol-generating product to produce aerosols. The heating element can be electrically connected to both the first and second power supply modules, and its operation includes at least a preheating phase. A switching unit can be electrically connected to the first, second, and heating elements, respectively. The switching unit can receive control signals from the control unit to switch between different power supply paths. The switching unit is configured to: receive control signals to connect the second power supply module and the heating element during the preheating phase, disconnecting the first power supply module from the heating element, and supplying power to the heating element from the second power supply module for preheating; and connect the first power supply module and the heating element when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the heating element, disconnecting the second power supply module from the heating element, and supplying power to the heating element from the first power supply module.

[0083] For example, refer to Figure 2 The power supply module and the main component can be electrically connected through a set of electrical contacts, which include, for example, a first contact V, a second contact G, and a switch contact for transmitting control signals. This structure provides the physical basis for the second power supply module to supply power or charge the components within the main component.

[0084] More specifically, the power supply component is connected to the main component through at least three contacts: V, G, and Switch. The second power supply module directly or indirectly changes the Switch signal through hardware or software to switch the output of V_IN between PWR_OUT and CHG_OUT.

[0085] Specifically, when the main component is charging normally, CHG_OUT=V_IN; when the main component needs to be heated for use, the switch provides a level to switch the circuit conduction state, so that the circuit switches to PWR_OUT=V_IN. After the main component completes the preheating process, by changing the level signal output by the switch, the main component can switch back to the first power supply module for continued use.

[0086] In other words, during the user's use, the power supply sequence of the second power supply module and the first power supply module in the aerosol generating device can be determined first. The second power supply module can charge the first power supply module. The second power supply module can selectively charge the first power supply module during the preheating or heating stage of the first power supply module, or directly supply power to the energy-consuming body of the first power supply module, bypassing the energy storage of the first power supply module.

[0087] By employing the above technical solution, and by setting up a first energy supply module and a second energy supply module with different energy storage capacities, and using a switching unit to receive control signals for selective conduction, the second energy supply module with a larger energy storage capacity directly supplies power to the energy-consuming device during the preheating phase, providing a sufficiently large preheating current and effectively shortening the preheating time. In other phases, when the energy-consuming device needs to operate, the power supply can be switched to the first energy supply module with a smaller energy storage capacity. Therefore, the smaller-capacity first energy supply module does not require high-rate discharge capability, while the larger-capacity second energy supply module is dedicated to handling the high-power demands of the preheating phase, thus achieving an optimized balance between preheating speed and range, and improving range.

[0088] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the working stage of the heating component also includes a heating stage after the preheating stage. In the heating stage, the switching unit connects the first power supply module and the heating component, and the first power supply module supplies power to the heating component for heating.

[0089] During the preheating phase, the second power supply module provides a large current for rapid preheating. Then, during the heating phase, the first power supply module supplies power to the heat-generating components, while a smaller capacity module maintains the heating (e.g., constant temperature heating). This configuration allows the large-capacity second power supply module to handle only a short preheating period, while the smaller capacity first power supply module handles the continuous heating phase. This accelerates preheating, avoids prolonged continuous discharge from the large-capacity module, balances energy consumption, and helps extend the overall battery life.

[0090] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the first power supply module and the second power supply module are electrically connected, and the switching unit is also configured to: when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the heating component, it can connect the first power supply module and the second power supply module, and the second power supply module charges the first power supply module.

[0091] With this configuration, the second power supply module can simultaneously drive the heating element and charge the first power supply module. The circuit can flexibly switch operating conditions simply by switching the logic of the switching unit, eliminating the need for additional charging and power supply circuits and simplifying the overall circuit structure. During the preheating phase, the second power supply module can quickly supply power to the heating element, resulting in faster preheating. It can also recharge the first power supply module when its power is insufficient, ensuring stable power supply for the first power supply module in the future. The convenient switching of operating modes improves the continuity and practicality of the aerosol generation device.

[0092] While the present invention has been illustrated and described with reference to certain preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that the above description is a further detailed explanation of the invention in conjunction with specific embodiments, and should not be construed as limiting the specific implementation of the invention to these descriptions. Various changes in form and detail can be made by those skilled in the art, including several simple deductions or substitutions, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A power supply circuit, characterized in that, The circuit is used to supply energy to an energy-consuming body, the operating phase of which includes a preheating phase, and the power supply circuit includes: The first power supply module is electrically connected to the energy-consuming body; The second power supply module is electrically connected to the energy-consuming body, and the energy storage capacity of the second power supply module is greater than that of the first power supply module. A switching unit is electrically connected to the first power supply module, the second power supply module, and the energy-consuming body, respectively. The switching unit is configured to: receive a control signal to connect the second power supply module and the energy-consuming body during the preheating phase, disconnect the first power supply module from the energy-consuming body, and supply energy to the energy-consuming body from the second power supply module for preheating; and connect the first power supply module and the energy-consuming body when the second power supply module stops supplying energy to the energy-consuming body, disconnect the second power supply module from the energy-consuming body, and supply energy to the energy-consuming body from the first power supply module.

2. The power supply circuit as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second power supply module can also be electrically connected to the first power supply module, and the switching unit is further configured to: when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the energy-consuming body, it can connect the first power supply module and the second power supply module, and the second power supply module charges the first power supply module.

3. The power supply circuit as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The switching unit includes: A first switch, the first end of which is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the second end of which is electrically connected to the energy-consuming body; The second switch has a first end electrically connected to the second power supply module and a second end electrically connected to the first power supply module. When the control signal is the first signal, the first switch is closed to connect the second power supply module and the energy consumption body, and the second switch is open; when the control signal is the second signal, the second switch is closed to connect the first power supply module and the second power supply module, and the first switch is open, and the second signal is different from the first signal.

4. The power supply circuit as described in claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: A first switching module includes a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal. The signal input terminal of the first switching module is used to receive the control signal, and the signal output terminal of the first switching module is electrically connected to the first switch to control whether the first switch is closed or open. And / or, a second switching module, the second switching module including a signal input terminal and a signal output terminal, the signal input terminal of the second switching module being used to receive the control signal, and the signal output terminal of the second switching module being electrically connected to the second switch to control whether the second switch is closed or open.

5. The power supply circuit as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The first switching module includes a third MOS transistor, the gate of which is used to receive a control signal, the source of which is grounded, and the drain of which is electrically connected to the first switch; wherein, when the control signal received by the third MOS transistor is the first signal, the third MOS transistor is turned on, and the first switch is closed. And / or, the second switching module includes a first MOSFET, the gate of which is used to receive a control signal, the source of which is grounded, and the drain of which is electrically connected to the second switch; wherein, when the control signal received by the first MOSFET is the second signal, the first MOSFET is turned on, and the second switch is closed.

6. The power supply circuit as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The first switch is a fourth MOS transistor, the gate of the fourth MOS transistor is electrically connected to the drain of the third MOS transistor, the source of the fourth MOS transistor is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the drain of the fourth MOS transistor is electrically connected to the power consumption body. And / or, the second switch is a second MOSFET, the gate of the second MOSFET is electrically connected to the drain of the first MOSFET, the source of the second MOSFET is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the drain of the second MOSFET is electrically connected to the first power supply module.

7. The power supply circuit as described in claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a diode, the anode of which is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the cathode of which is electrically connected to the first power supply module.

8. The power supply circuit as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a voltage regulator module, which is connected in parallel with the first power supply module and / or the second power supply module.

9. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: Power supply components, including a second power supply module; The main component, detachably connected to the power supply component, includes: The first energy supply module has a smaller energy storage capacity than the second energy supply module. The heating element is electrically connected to the first power supply module and the second power supply module respectively, and the working stage of the heating element includes a preheating stage. A switching unit is electrically connected to the first power supply module, the second power supply module, and the heating element, respectively. The switching unit is configured to: receive a control signal to connect the second power supply module and the heating element during the preheating phase, disconnect the first power supply module from the heating element, and supply power to the heating element from the second power supply module for preheating; and connect the first power supply module and the heating element when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the heating element, disconnect the second power supply module from the heating element, and supply power to the heating element from the first power supply module.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The working phase of the heating element also includes a heating phase after the preheating phase. In the heating phase, the switching unit connects the first power supply module and the heating element, and the first power supply module supplies power to the heating element for heating.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The first power supply module is electrically connected to the second power supply module, and the switching unit is further configured to: when the second power supply module stops supplying power to the heating component, it can connect the first power supply module and the second power supply module, and the second power supply module charges the first power supply module.

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