Aerosol generation device with optical heater

Abstract

In a first aspect, the present invention is an aerosol generation device comprising at least two light sources for emitting light onto an aerosol generation substrate received by the aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol, wherein the at least two light sources comprise a first light source configured to emit light having a wavelength in a first range, and a second light source configured to emit light having a wavelength in a second range, wherein the first range and the second range are different from each other, and wherein the at least two light sources are configured to emit light onto at least one same portion of the aerosol generation substrate received by the aerosol generation device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus, and more particularly to an aerosol generating apparatus comprising one or more light sources for optically heating an aerosol generating matrix. Background Technology

[0002] Existing aerosol generating devices commonly found on the market typically employ thermal heating. In this process, heat is generated directly through conduction or through convection that heats the air drawn into the aerosol generating device. The heat then contacts the aerosol generating matrix and transfers the generated heat to the aerosol generating matrix.

[0003] As an alternative, non-contact heating, such as optical heating, can be used. In optical heating, only the portion of the light absorbed by the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated. Therefore, optical heating can selectively target a localized portion of the aerosol-generating matrix, and thus allows for faster aerosol production.

[0004] However, different aerosol-generating matrices and their constituent components exhibit different optical absorption properties. Current optical heating methods and devices do not take these different optical absorption properties into account.

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus and a method employing optical heating, which are capable of providing aerosols with desired composition and quantity. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention, as defined by the features of the independent claims, solves some or all of the aforementioned problems of the prior art. Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined by the features of the dependent claims.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention is an aerosol generating apparatus comprising at least two light sources for emitting light onto an aerosol generating matrix received by the aerosol generating apparatus to generate an aerosol, wherein the at least two light sources include a first light source configured to emit light in a first wavelength range and a second light source configured to emit light in a second wavelength range, wherein the first and second ranges are different from each other, and wherein the at least two light sources are configured to emit light onto at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix received by the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0008] The first aspect of the invention provides several advantages. Optical heating using light emitted onto and absorbed by the same portion of the aerosol-generating matrix provides a low-maintenance aerosol-generating device that can rapidly and efficiently generate aerosols from that portion of the aerosol-generating matrix. The aerosol-generating matrix can be heated in a more targeted, localized, and efficient manner because the light can be easily focused and directed, and only the portion of the aerosol-generating matrix to which the emitted light is directed is heated, without heat loss.

[0009] Furthermore, the aerosol generating matrix comprises different components, each with different optical absorption spectra, and therefore different responses to irradiation and heating by a light source. Using at least two light sources that emit light with wavelengths in a first range and a second range onto the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix, wherein the first and second ranges are different, allows for efficient heating of the different components of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0010] It is worth noting that, preferably, the fact that the first range and the second range are different from each other means that the first range is not completely covered by the second range, and vice versa. More preferably, this means that there is essentially no overlap between the first range and the second range.

[0011] According to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the first light source is configured to emit light with a wavelength in a first range of 380 nm to 500 nm, preferably 430 nm to 470 nm, more preferably 440 nm to 460 nm, and most preferably about 450 nm.

[0012] According to the third aspect, in any of the foregoing aspects, the second light source is configured to emit light in a second range of wavelengths from 520 nm to 590 nm, preferably from 540 nm to 570 nm, and most preferably from about 555 nm, or light in a third range of wavelengths from 590 nm to 635 nm, preferably from 590 nm to 600 nm, and most preferably from about 595 nm.

[0013] The applicant has discovered that the optical absorption properties of many matrices (including tobacco matrices) are enhanced at certain wavelengths, preferably within a first range (compared to other wavelengths, preferably within a second or third range). Therefore, by providing at least two light sources, wherein the first light source emits light within the first range and the second light source emits light within the second or third range, the optical heating of the aerosol-generating matrix can be controlled more efficiently, effectively, and flexibly.

[0014] According to the fourth aspect, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least one or more, preferably all, of the at least two light sources are one or more coherent light sources, preferably one or more laser diodes.

[0015] The fourth aspect is advantageous because coherent light sources (such as lasers) typically have low beam divergence, which allows for precise targeting of specific portions of the matrix without the need for focusing optics.

[0016] According to aspect 5, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least one or more, preferably all, of the at least two light sources are one or more incoherent light sources, preferably one or more LEDs.

[0017] The fifth aspect is advantageous because incoherent light sources (such as LEDs) are smaller and require less power.

[0018] According to aspect 6, in the preceding aspect, at least one or more coherent light sources are selected from one or more of the following: vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), photonic crystal surface-emitting lasers (PCSELs), topological cavity surface-emitting lasers (TCSELs), and surface-mount devices (SMDs).

[0019] The sixth aspect is advantageous because surface-emitting lasers allow for miniaturization of the light source and simplify testing and installation procedures during the manufacture of aerosol generating devices.

[0020] According to aspect 7, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two of the at least two light sources, preferably all of them, are arranged at the same distance from at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0021] The seventh aspect is advantageous because it improves the control over the irradiation and heating of the aerosol-generating matrix. The distance from the light source to the aerosol-generating matrix affects various aspects of the light incident on it. For example, parameters such as beam size / diameter, coherence, and intensity vary with the distance from the light source to the matrix. By arranging the light sources at equal distances, parameter deviations between the light sources are minimized, thus providing improved control.

[0022] According to aspect 8, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two, preferably at least three, light sources are arranged to emit light from different directions onto at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0023] According to aspect 9, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two, preferably at least three, light sources are arranged along a curved, preferably arc-shaped, more preferably circular line.

[0024] Aspects 8 and 9 are advantageous because they facilitate the arrangement of at least two light sources within the aerosol generating device. These two aspects allow the arrangement of the at least two light sources to be adapted to the spatial constraints of the internal space of the aerosol generating device.

[0025] According to the 10th aspect, in any of the foregoing aspects, the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a vaporization space in which at least the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix can be received.

[0026] The tenth aspect is advantageous because it improves the control of the heating process of the aerosol generating matrix. The vaporization space corresponds to an enclosed space (or volume) in which part or all of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​located and heated, and within this enclosed space, aerosols are generated for consumption by the user. According to this aspect, the vaporization space includes a volume in which the aerosols generated from the aerosol generating matrix are received, and are also guided toward an air passage to release the aerosols from the vapor outlet of the device.

[0027] When optical heating is used, the positioning of the vaporization space relative to the light source is subject to manufacturing tolerances of the aerosol generating article, as well as tolerances in the connection and relative position between the aerosol generating article and the aerosol generating device. Advantageously, according to aspects of the invention, the positioning of at least two light sources and the positioning of the aerosol generating matrix within the vaporization space can be predetermined and set, and any negative impacts from manufacturing tolerances can be reduced. This improves control over which portion of the matrix is ​​heated.

[0028] According to aspect 11, in the preceding aspect, at least two light sources are arranged within the vaporization space, preferably on at least one inner surface of the vaporization space.

[0029] The eleventh aspect is advantageous because it simplifies the aerosol generation apparatus. Arranging at least two light sources on the inner surface of the vaporization space allows light to be emitted directly onto the aerosol generation matrix without the need for additional optical elements, as opposed to arranging at least two light sources inside the cavity or outside the vaporization space.

[0030] According to aspect 12, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two light sources are arranged such that the angles of incidence of the light emitted by the at least two light sources onto the surface of at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix are equal.

[0031] The 12th aspect is advantageous because it improves the control of irradiation and heating of the aerosol-generating matrix. The beam intensity parameters of the light emitted by at least two light sources on the irradiated portion of the aerosol-generating matrix vary with the incident angle. For example, if light emitted by a light source with a circular beam profile is incident on the surface at an incident angle of 0° relative to the surface normal, the light source irradiates a circular area on the surface. As the incident angle increases, the shape of the irradiated area changes from circular to elliptical. Simultaneously, the size of the irradiated area increases, thus determining different heating effects on the irradiated portion of the matrix. By setting equal incident angles for the light emitted by at least two light sources, control of the optical heating process is improved. In fact, compared to a configuration where the incident angles of light from each of the at least two light sources are different, when at least two light sources are arranged to emit light with similar incident angles, each of these light sources will form an irradiated area comprising an irradiated area of ​​similar size, thus allowing for a more efficient and controlled setting of the target irradiated area of ​​the aerosol-generating matrix using these at least two light sources.

[0032] According to aspect 13, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two light sources are arranged such that light from the at least two light sources is incident at an equal angle on the portion of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0033] The 13th aspect is advantageous because, due to the effects described above, for example in the context of the 12th aspect of the invention, it improves the irradiation and heating of the aerosol-generating matrix by at least two light sources.

[0034] According to aspect 14, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two light sources further include a third light source configured to emit light in a third range with wavelengths different from the first and second ranges.

[0035] The 14th aspect is advantageous because it improves the heating of the aerosol-generating matrix. As described above, by emitting light with three different wavelengths onto the same portion of the aerosol-generating matrix, the absorption of the aerosol-generating matrix by all three wavelengths can be optimized, thus optimizing the heating of different compounds in the aerosol-generating matrix. This allows for the efficient heating of different components of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0036] The 15th aspect of the present invention is an aerosol generation system comprising any of the foregoing aspects and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol generation matrix, wherein the aerosol generation article is received by an aerosol generation apparatus.

[0037] The advantage of aspect 15 corresponds to the advantage of any of the aforementioned aspects.

[0038] A 16th aspect of the invention is a method for generating an aerosol, the method comprising using the aerosol generating system of the preceding aspect to generate an aerosol. The method comprises: emitting light of different wavelengths from at least two light sources of an aerosol generating apparatus onto an aerosol generating matrix received by the aerosol generating apparatus to generate an aerosol, the at least two light sources including a first light source configured to emit light with wavelengths in a first range and a second light source configured to emit light with wavelengths in a second range, wherein the first range and the second range are different from each other, and wherein the at least two light sources emit light onto at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix received by the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0039] According to aspect 17, in the preceding aspect, the first light source is configured to emit light with a wavelength in a first range of 380 nm to 500 nm, preferably 430 nm to 470 nm, more preferably 440 nm to 460 nm, and most preferably about 450 nm.

[0040] According to aspect 18, in any of the foregoing aspects, the second light source is configured to emit light in a second range of wavelengths from 520 nm to 590 nm, preferably from 540 nm to 570 nm, and most preferably from about 555 nm, or light in a third range of wavelengths from 590 nm to 635 nm, preferably from 590 nm to 600 nm, and most preferably from about 595 nm.

[0041] According to aspect 19, in the preceding aspect, at least one or more, preferably all, of the at least two light sources are one or more coherent light sources, preferably one or more laser diodes.

[0042] According to aspect 20, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least one or more, preferably all, of the at least two light sources are one or more incoherent light sources, preferably one or more LEDs.

[0043] According to aspect 21, in the preceding aspect, at least one or more coherent light sources are selected from one or more of the following: vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), photonic crystal surface-emitting lasers (PCSELs), topological cavity surface-emitting lasers (TCSELs), and surface-mount devices (SMDs).

[0044] According to aspect 22, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two of the at least two light sources, preferably all of them, are arranged at the same distance from at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0045] According to aspect 23, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two, preferably at least three, light sources are arranged to emit light from different directions onto at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0046] According to aspect 24, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two, preferably at least three, light sources are arranged along a curved, preferably arcuate, more preferably circular line.

[0047] According to aspect 25, in any of the foregoing aspects, the method further includes receiving at least one identical portion within the vaporization space of the aerosol generating device.

[0048] According to aspect 26, in the preceding aspect, at least two light sources are arranged within the vaporization space, preferably on at least one inner surface of the vaporization space.

[0049] According to aspect 27, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two light sources are arranged such that the angles of incidence of the light emitted by the at least two light sources onto the surface of at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix are equal.

[0050] According to aspect 28, in any of the foregoing aspects, at least two light sources are arranged such that light from the at least two light sources is incident at an equal angle on at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0051] According to aspect 29, the method further includes emitting light with wavelengths in a third range from a third light source included in at least two light sources onto at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix, wherein the third range differs from the first range and the second range.

[0052] The advantages of aspects 16 to 29 correspond to the advantages of aspects 1 to 14 of the present invention, respectively.

[0053] Preferred embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the electronic configuration of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0055] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating article used with the aerosol generating apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention are shown respectively.

[0056] Figure 3A and Figure 3BSchematic diagrams showing internal cross-sectional views of an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating article used with the aerosol generating apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention are shown respectively.

[0057] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Schematic side views of an aerosol generating unit configured to emit light onto an aerosol generating matrix, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, are shown.

[0058] Figure 5A and Figure 5B They are shown respectively Figure 4A and Figure 4B The diagram shown is a schematic plan view of an aerosol generating unit configured to emit light onto an aerosol generating matrix, according to a preferred embodiment.

[0059] Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C Side view, plan view and schematic diagram of side view of an aerosol generating unit configured to emit light onto an aerosol generating matrix according to different embodiments of the present invention are shown respectively. Detailed Implementation

[0060] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that terms indicating orientation or positional relationship such as “one end,” “the other end,” “outer side,” “upper,” “above,” “inner side,” “below,” “horizontal,” “coaxial,” “central,” “end,” “part,” “length,” “outer end,” etc., are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. Terms such as “upper,” “above,” “below,” “below,” etc., used in this invention to indicate spatial relative position are for illustrative purposes to describe the relationship of a unit or feature shown in the accompanying drawings relative to another unit or feature. Terms indicating spatial relative position may be intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to those shown in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, a unit described as “below” or “below” another unit or feature would be “above” that other unit or feature. Therefore, the exemplary term “below” can encompass both upper and lower orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or other orientations), and the spatially related descriptions used herein shall be interpreted accordingly. More specifically, the term "above" refers to a unit, layer, or element arranged or configured in an external direction relative to one or more other units, layers, or elements in the device; the term "below" refers to a unit, layer, or element arranged or configured in an internal direction relative to other units, layers, or elements in the device.

[0061] The aerosol generating device according to the invention is preferably a portable device. For this purpose, their size is limited. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the portable aerosol generating device is a handheld device suitable for and operable by the user's hand.

[0062] The aerosol generating device 100 includes an outer housing or casing within which components of the aerosol generating device are arranged. The aerosol generating device according to the invention houses an aerosol generating unit configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol generating matrix using light.

[0063] Figure 1 An electronic configuration of an aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Preferably a portable handheld device, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes a power source 150, such as a rechargeable battery and / or a replaceable battery. The power source is configured to supply power to the electronic components of the aerosol generating device 100. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 is provided with a control unit 140, wherein the control unit is configured to control various functions of the aerosol generating device 100. In a preferred embodiment, the control unit is configured to control the operation of the aerosol generating unit 110 to heat the aerosol generating matrix 210 to generate aerosols. The aerosol generating unit 110 in… Figure 1 The aerosol generation unit 110 is exemplarily shown as including a first light source, a second light source, and a third light source. However, the number of light sources may be more or less. While each light source of the aerosol generation unit 110 may be pre-programmed or configured to emit light with predetermined operating parameters, preferably, the control unit 140 is configured to control the operating parameters of the aerosol generation unit 110, which includes at least two light sources. The operating parameters of some or all of the at least two light sources that can be controlled by the control unit 140 include one or more of the following: beam on-time of emitted light, beam off-time of non-emitted light, amplitude / beam intensity of emitted light, phase of emitted light, beam profile of emitted light, and wavelength of emitted light. It should be noted that the above-reported operating parameters of some or all of the at least two light sources can be controlled independently of each other, or the operating parameters of two or more of the at least two light sources can be controlled simultaneously.

[0064] like Figures 2A to 2B As shown, the aerosol generating device can have a generally longitudinal shape in the longitudinal direction y and a generally circular or elongated cross-section in the transverse direction x. However, other shapes of the aerosol generating device 100 and different cross-sectional shapes are also possible. The longitudinal direction y is parallel to the inhalation direction, i.e., the direction in which the aerosol generating device 100 is inserted into or brought into the user's mouth to inhale the generated aerosol, and the transverse direction x is perpendicular to the inhalation direction.

[0065] In this embodiment, the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​a solid matrix, such as a tobacco matrix. The tobacco matrix comprises tobacco, which may be in the form of ground or shredded tobacco leaves. Additionally, the tobacco matrix may include gellan gum and, additionally or alternatively, a CMC binder. Both gellan gum and the CMC binder can function as binders, thickeners, and / or stabilizers.

[0066] In this embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a liquid matrix, such as e-cigarette liquid or tobacco liquid (t-liquid). E-cigarette liquid typically includes vegetable glycerin (VG), propylene glycol (PG), nicotine, and flavorings. Tobacco liquid typically includes vegetable glycerin (VG), propylene glycol (PG), and tobacco material (such as ground tobacco).

[0067] The liquid aerosol generating matrix is ​​stored in a reservoir. The aerosol generating device 100 unit is provided with an extraction device configured to extract the aerosol generating matrix. In an embodiment, the extraction device includes an element (e.g., a wicking element) that contacts the liquid aerosol generating matrix stored in the reservoir and is configured to extract the liquid aerosol generating matrix 210 from the reservoir. The reservoir may be part of the aerosol generating device 100, wherein an opening is provided to allow the liquid aerosol generating matrix to fill into the reservoir.

[0068] Solid aerosol generation matrices can be provided in different shapes and sizes. For example... Figure 2A As shown, the aerosol generating article can be an aerosol generating matrix 210, which is a tobacco matrix. This tobacco matrix can also have an elongated shape in the longitudinal direction y and a circular or elliptical base shape in the transverse direction x. The shape of the aerosol generating matrix 210 mimics the shape of a conventional cigarette. Alternatively, as... Figure 2B As shown in the preferred embodiment, the solid aerosol generating matrix 210 can be disc-shaped, or alternatively hemispherical, spherical, or ellipsoidal. In many cases, the aerosol generating article 200 can substantially correspond to the aerosol generating matrix 210.

[0069] like Figure 3A and Figure 3BAs shown, in order to use a solid aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol generating device 100 is preferably provided with a receiving device for receiving the solid aerosol generating matrix. The receiving device may be a cavity or chamber 105 into which the solid aerosol generating matrix 210 can be partially or completely inserted. The size and shape of the cavity or chamber 105 may be adapted depending on the size and shape of the solid aerosol generating matrix 210. For example, in the case where the shape of the solid aerosol generating matrix 210 mimics the shape of a conventional cigarette, the cavity or chamber 105 preferably has a tubular shape. The cavity or chamber 105 is preferably also a vaporization chamber. The vaporization chamber encloses the vaporization space in which aerosols are generated when heated.

[0070] Alternatively, for the liquid aerosol generating matrix, a reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol generating matrix may be provided with an aerosol generating article 200, such as a cartridge including an outer shell or housing, with the reservoir disposed within the outer shell or housing. In use, the aerosol generating article can be detachably connected to the aerosol generating device. When the aerosol generating article 200 is attached to the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating unit 110 is configured to draw liquid aerosol generating matrix 210 from the reservoir of the aerosol generating article 200 and heat the drawn-in aerosol generating matrix 210.

[0071] Alternatively, the solid aerosol generating matrix 210 may be configured as part of an aerosol generating article 200 in the form of a cartridge. The cartridge includes an outer shell or outer casing in which the solid aerosol generating matrix 210 is disposed. The cartridge, and additionally or alternatively, the aerosol generating device 100 is configured such that when the cartridge is received by the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating unit 110 of the aerosol generating device 100 can heat the solid aerosol generating matrix 210 disposed as part of the cartridge.

[0072] According to the present invention, the aerosol generating unit 110 is configured to emit light onto the aerosol generating substrate 210 to heat the aerosol generating substrate 210 and generate aerosols. The configuration and arrangement of the aerosol generating unit 110 in the aerosol generating apparatus 100 depends on the type of aerosol generating article 200 and the manner in which the aerosol generating article 200, including the aerosol generating substrate 210, is received. The configuration and arrangement of the aerosol generating unit 110 may also depend on the manner in which the aerosol generating substrate 210 is heated.

[0073] As in Figure 3A and Figure 3B As can be seen in the diagram, it is exemplified as a disk but can have... Figure 2A and Figure 2BAny aerosol generating article 200 of any shape described in the context is partially or completely received within the cavity or chamber 105 of the aerosol generating apparatus 100. For heating the aerosol generating matrix 210, the aerosol generating unit 110 is preferably arranged on the inner surface of the cavity or chamber 105, which serves as a vaporization space, to allow the aerosol generating unit 110 to emit light directly onto the aerosol generating matrix 210, thereby generating aerosols within the cavity or chamber 105. For this purpose, the aerosol generating unit 110 may be arranged within a groove or cutout provided on the inner surface of the cavity or chamber 105, such that the amount of protrusion of the aerosol generating unit 110 from the inner surface of the cavity or chamber 105 is minimized or eliminated. Alternatively, as a more manufacturable configuration, the aerosol generating unit 110 may be disposed on the inner surface of the cavity or chamber 105. Furthermore, the aerosol generating unit 110 can be arranged to be spaced apart from the aerosol generating matrix 210 in the lateral direction x, such as... Figure 3A As shown, or alternatively, the aerosol generating unit 110 can be arranged to be spaced apart from the aerosol generating matrix 210 in the longitudinal direction y, such as... Figure 3B As shown. Furthermore, regardless of the positioning and orientation of the at least two light sources of the aerosol generation unit 110 relative to the aerosol generation matrix 210, in both cases, one or more of the at least two light sources can be arranged on the inner surface of the chamber 105 or recessed into the inner surface of the chamber 105. It is worth noting that the aerosol generation unit 110 can be as follows... Figures 4A to 6C Configure it as described in the context.

[0074] When the aerosol generating matrix 210 is comprised of an aerosol generating article 200 in the form of a smoke bomb, when the aerosol generating article 200 is attached to the aerosol generating device 100 in use, the aerosol generating unit 110 is preferably arranged at or near the interface between the aerosol generating device 100 and the aerosol generating article 200. Additionally or alternatively, preferably, when the aerosol generating article 200 is attached to the aerosol generating device 100 in use, the aerosol generating matrix 210 included in the aerosol generating article 200 is arranged at or near the interface between the aerosol generating device 100 and the aerosol generating article. When the aerosol generating article 200 is attached to the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating matrix 210 included in the aerosol generating article and the aerosol generating unit 110 are arranged such that light emitted from the aerosol generating unit 110 is incident on the aerosol generating matrix 210.

[0075] Given that all light sources have a certain spectral bandwidth, it should be noted that the term "wavelength of light emitted by the light source according to the present invention" refers to the peak wavelength, that is, the wavelength at which the spectrum of light emitted by the light source reaches its maximum value.

[0076] When referring to “blue” light or light within the “blue range”, it should be noted that this corresponds to light within the visible spectrum from 380 nm to 500 nm, preferably from 430 nm to 470 nm, more preferably from 440 nm to 460 nm, and most preferably about 450 nm.

[0077] When referring to “green” light or light within the “green range”, it should be noted that this corresponds to light within the visible spectrum from 520 nm to 590 nm, preferably from 540 nm to 570 nm, and most preferably about 555 nm.

[0078] When referring to “orange” light or light within the “orange range”, it should be noted that this corresponds to light within the visible spectrum from 590 nm to 635 nm, preferably from 590 nm to 600 nm, and most preferably about 595 nm.

[0079] According to possible embodiments, a wavelength difference between the light emitted by one light source and that emitted by another light source means that the peak wavelength of one light source differs from that of the other. According to possible embodiments, there may be substantially no overlap in the spectra of the two light sources, or there may be a small or negligible percentage overlap at the ends of the spectra. According to possible embodiments, the peak wavelength of one light source does not fall within the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the spectrum of the other light source, and the peak wavelength of the other light source does not fall within the FWHM range of the first light source.

[0080] Figure 4A A first preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated. The aerosol generating unit 110 includes at least two light sources. The at least two light sources include a first light source 111 configured to emit light in the blue range, and a second light source 112. The second light source 112 is configured to emit light in the green range, or alternatively, the orange range. Additionally, the at least two light sources may further include a third light source 113, such as… Figure 4B As shown, the third light source 113 is configured to emit light outside the blue range, wherein the third light source 113 is configured to emit light within the green range, or alternatively, within the orange range. Preferably, when three light sources are provided, the first light source 111 is configured to emit light within the blue range, the second light source 112 is configured to emit light within the green range, and the third light source 113 is configured to emit light within the orange range.

[0081] The applicant found that many typical aerosol-generating matrices, particularly tobacco matrix 210, exhibit increased absorption in the blue range, while smaller fractions of the components of the aerosol-generating matrix have optical absorption spectra with maximum absorption in the green and orange ranges.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, at least two light sources are configured to emit light such that the emitted light is incident on the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210. In the context of this invention, the at least two light sources are configured to emit light onto the same portion when the main emission directions of the at least two light sources intersect within the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210, or preferably when the light from the at least two light sources intersects on the surface of the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210. Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the context of the illustrated embodiments, this means as Figure 4A The first light source 111 and the second light source 112 shown, or as... Figure 4B The first light source 111, the second light source 112, and the third light source 113 shown are oriented such that the main emission directions of the first light source 111 and the second light source 112, or the main emission directions of the first light source 111, the second light source 112, and the third light source 113 (shown as solid lines) intersect as described above. However, this arrangement of light sources is not limited to two or three light sources, but is generally applicable to multiple light sources (such as four or more light sources).

[0083] The type of light source can be selected based on the requirements of the aerosol generating device 100 regarding heating performance, energy consumption, space constraints within the aerosol generating device 100, the size and shape of the aerosol generating matrix 210, and other factors known to those skilled in the art.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the at least two light sources are coherent light sources, such as lasers. Specifically, the laser has a small beam divergence and therefore a narrow beam, which allows heating of the aerosol generating matrix 210 to be focused and limited to a precisely and well-defined portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210. This improves control over the heating process and allows for targeted and selective heating of the aerosol generating matrix 210. The laser can be a surface-emitting laser, such as a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL), a photonic crystal surface-emitting laser (PCSEL), and a topological cavity surface-emitting laser (TCSEL). Surface-emitting lasers are easier to fabricate and install in the aerosol generating device 100 compared to other types of lasers, such as edge-emitting lasers. Additionally, surface-emitting lasers require less power, which is particularly advantageous in portable or handheld aerosol generating devices with limited and non-constant power supplies.

[0085] However, the type of light source is not limited to coherent light sources. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of at least two light sources may be incoherent light sources, such as LEDs, filament bulbs, or plasma / flame radiation devices. LEDs are particularly energy-efficient and require less power to operate compared to coherent light sources such as lasers. As described, this reduction in power consumption is especially advantageous in portable or handheld devices.

[0086] As in Figure 4A and Figure 4B As can be seen, at least two light sources can be arranged within the aerosol generating device 100 such that both are equidistant from at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210, and the at least two light sources are configured to emit light onto that at least one identical portion. Although Figure 4A The aerosol generating matrix 210 is shown in a rectangular shape, but the shape of the aerosol generating matrix 210 is not limited and can have a circular, spherical, ellipsoidal, or cigarette-shaped shape, as described above. Figures 2A to 2B As described in the context.

[0087] When the aerosol generating matrix 210 has a disc-shaped shape and a flat surface on the opposite side of the disc-shaped shape, such as Figure 2B and Figure 3B As illustrated, at least two light sources can be arranged at the same distance from a portion of one of the two flat surfaces. In the case where the aerosol generating matrix 210 has a cylindrical shape mimicking a cigarette, such as... Figure 2A As shown, at least two light sources can be arranged at the same distance from the base of the aerosol generating matrix 210 inserted into the cavity or chamber 105 of the aerosol generating device 100. Alternatively, at least two light sources can be arranged at the same distance from the curved portion of the cylindrical side surface of a cigarette. When the aerosol generating matrix 210 is included in an aerosol generating article 200 in the form of a cartridge, at least two light sources are arranged in the aerosol generating device 100 such that when the aerosol generating article 200 is attached to the aerosol generating device 100, at least two light sources are arranged at the same distance from at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210, and at least two light sources are configured to emit light onto that at least one identical portion.

[0088] Since any light source has non-zero beam divergence, the distance from the light source to the aerosol generating matrix 210 affects the parameters of beam size, coherence, and intensity incident on the aerosol generating matrix 210. If each of at least two light sources is arranged at different distances from the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210, the differences in these parameters must be considered when setting the operating parameters of each light source. For example, due to beam divergence, if a first laser and a second laser of the same type are arranged at different distances, the beam size incident on the aerosol generating matrix 210 from the first laser positioned at a larger distance from the aerosol generating matrix 210 will be greater than the beam size from the second laser positioned at a smaller distance from the aerosol generating matrix 210. Therefore, even if the first and second lasers are arranged to emit light onto the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210, the area and / or volume of the aerosol generating matrix 210 irradiated by the first laser is larger than the area and / or volume of the aerosol generating matrix 210 irradiated by the second laser, resulting in uneven heating of the aerosol generating matrix 210 by the first and second lasers. Therefore, when at least the light sources are of the same type (e.g., the same type of laser), it is preferable to arrange at least two light sources at the same distance from the aerosol generating matrix 210, as this minimizes the deviation of the aforementioned parameters and improves the control of the heating process.

[0089] It should also be noted that, according to possible embodiments, the light source of the aerosol generating unit may be equipped with collimating components that allow adjustment of the beam size. This arrangement may be advantageous when the distance from each light source to the irradiated area is different, as it allows compensation for light divergence that increases with the distance from the light source as the beam size increases.

[0090] Additionally or alternatively, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, when viewing the outer surface portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210 (on which at least two light sources are configured to emit light) from a plan view, at least the light sources can be arranged to emit light onto portions of the aerosol generating matrix 210 from different directions, i.e., the emission directions of at least two light sources are not parallel to each other. This facilitates the arrangement of at least two light sources within the spatial constraints of the aerosol generating device 100 and allows the at least two light sources to be arranged adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix 210, while allowing the at least two light sources to emit light directly onto the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210. This is particularly advantageous for portable or handheld devices. Additionally or alternatively, in the plan view, at least two light sources can be arranged on a curved, preferably arcuate, or even more preferably circular or elliptical line. Arranging them on a circular or elliptical line is particularly advantageous for aerosol generating devices 100 with an elongated shape having a circular or elliptical base shape, as in... Figures 2A to 2BAs described in the context of the illustrated embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, at least two light sources are arranged such that the light emitted by these at least two light sources is incident on the same portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210 from different directions, these different directions being angularly spaced apart from each other when viewed in a plan view. This can be achieved by arranging the at least two light sources at angular distances from each other, with the point where the main emission directions of the at least two light sources intersect as the origin when viewed in a plan view.

[0091] Additionally or alternatively, at least two light sources are arranged such that the light emitted from these at least two sources has equal angles of incidence on the same portion of the surface of the aerosol generating matrix 210. Since light sources typically have non-zero beam divergence, parameters such as the magnitude and intensity of the emitted light incident on the portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210 depend on the angle of incidence. A larger angle of incidence (relative to the local surface normal) results in a larger surface area or volume of the aerosol generating matrix 210 irradiated by the light emitted from the light source, thus altering the beam intensity on the aerosol generating matrix 210. For example, light with a circular beam profile incident on the surface at a non-zero angle of incidence (relative to the local surface normal) will not form a circle on the surface of the aerosol generating matrix 210 but rather an elliptical irradiated area. By emitting light onto the aerosol generating matrix 210 at the same angle of incidence, the difference in beam intensity distribution between the light from at least two sources on the aerosol generating matrix 210 is minimized, which is particularly advantageous for light sources of the same type with identical or similar beam profiles. This provides more uniform heating of the aerosol generating matrix 210 via at least two light sources and improves control over the heating process.

[0092] Although Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B An aerosol generating unit 110 with two or three light sources is shown; however, the number of light sources is limited only by the space constraints and / or power supply limitations of the aerosol generating device 100, and the aerosol generating unit 110 may include four or more light sources. In embodiments, such as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the aerosol generating unit 110 may include six light sources. Although in Figure 6A In the illustration, a rectangular or disc-shaped aerosol generating matrix 210 is shown with an arrangement of six light sources; however, the arrangement described below can be applied to any suitable shape of the aerosol generating matrix 210, such as a spherical, ellipsoidal, or cylindrical aerosol generating matrix. Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix can be as shown in... Figures 2A to 5B The aerosol generating matrix is ​​described in the context of the embodiments shown and illustrated. Furthermore, preferably, Figure 6Aand Figure 6B The light source in the illustrated embodiments may be as described above. Figures 3A to 5B The light source is described in the context of the illustrated embodiments.

[0093] exist Figure 6A and Figure 6B In the illustrated embodiment, a first light source and another first light source 111a are provided to form a first pair of light sources. The first light source 111 and the other first light source 111a can be arranged on opposite sides of the aerosol generating matrix 210. Alternatively, the first light source 111 and the other first light source 111a can be arranged adjacent to each other. A second light source 112 and another second light source 112a can be provided to form a second pair of light sources. Furthermore, a third light source 113 and another third light source 113a can be provided to form a third pair of light sources.

[0094] The arrangement of the second light source 112 and another second light source 112a, and additionally or alternatively, the arrangement of the third light source 113 and another third light source 113a, can be as described for the first light source 111 and another first light source 111a. The first light source 111, the second light source 112, and the third light source 113 can be arranged on one side of the aerosol generating matrix 210, as described above. Figures 4A to 5B The first light source 111, the second light source 112, and the third light source 113 may be arranged at a distance from the aerosol generating matrix 210, and / or at an angle of incidence, and / or as shown in the examples. Figures 4A to 5B The arrangement of the floor plan is described in the context of the illustrated embodiments.

[0095] The first light source 111, the second light source 112, and the third light source 113 can be configured to emit light in the blue and / or green and / or orange ranges, as described above. Figures 3A to 5B The embodiments shown are described in the context of the examples presented. For example, a first light source 111 may be configured to emit light in the blue range, a second light source 112 may be configured to emit light in the green range, and a third light source 113 may be configured to emit light in the orange range. Another first light source 111a, another second light source 112a, and another third light source 113a may be configured to emit light with wavelengths substantially and respectively corresponding to the wavelengths emitted by the first light source 111, the second light source 112, and the third light source 113.

[0096] "Basically corresponding" means that the peak wavelengths of the first light source 111 and / or the second light source 112 and / or the third light source 113 fall within the FWHM range of another first light source 111a, another second light source 112a, and another third light source 113a, respectively. For example... Figure 6AAs shown, six light sources are configured to emit light onto at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix 210. (As in...) Figure 4A and Figure 4B As described in the context, the six light sources are configured such that the principal emission directions of the six emitted light beams intersect at a common point within the aerosol generating matrix 210. Alternatively, the first light source 111, the second light source 112, and the third light source 113 may be configured such that their respective principal emission directions intersect on one surface of the aerosol generating matrix 210, while another first light source, another second light source, and another third light source are configured such that their respective principal emission directions intersect at another opposite surface of the aerosol generating matrix 210.

[0097] Alternatively, such as Figure 6B As shown, all six light sources can be arranged on the same side of the aerosol generating matrix 210. In this case, the first light source 111 can be arranged adjacent to another first light source 11b, the second light source 112 can be arranged adjacent to another second light source 112a, and the third light source 113 can be arranged adjacent to another third light source 113a.

[0098] Alternatively, such as Figure 6C As shown, instead of using two light sources to form a first / second / third pair of light sources to emit the first / second / third pair of beams, a single light source combined with an optical element (e.g., beam splitter 120) can be used. Instead of setting a first light source 111 and another first light source 111a to form a first pair of light sources emitting the first pair of beams, the first light source 111 can be configured in conjunction with beam splitter 120, such that the beam emitted from the first light source 111 is split into two separate beams. This allows a pair of beams to be generated using only a single light source. This configuration can be used for a second pair of light sources and / or a third pair of light sources and / or any other pair of light sources.

[0099] While this disclosure has described certain embodiments and generally associated methods, changes and modifications to these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments does not limit or restrict this disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this disclosure as defined by the independent and dependent claims.

[0100] List of reference numerals

[0101] 100 Aerosol Generating Device

[0102] 105 Cavities / Chambers

[0103] 110 Aerosol Generation Unit

[0104] 111 First Light Source

[0105] 111a Another primary light source

[0106] 112 Second Light Source

[0107] 112a Another second light source

[0108] 113 Third Light Source

[0109] 113a Another third light source

[0110] 120 beam splitter

[0111] 130 Optical Components

[0112] 140 Control Unit

[0113] 150 power supply

[0114] 200 Aerosol Generating Products

[0115] 210 Aerosol-generated matrix.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising: At least two light sources are used to emit light onto an aerosol generating matrix received by the aerosol generating device to generate aerosols. The at least two light sources include a first light source configured to emit light with wavelengths within a first range. A second light source configured to emit light with wavelengths in the second range. Wherein, the first range and the second range are different from each other, and The at least two light sources are configured to emit light onto at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix received by the aerosol generating device.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein, The first light source is configured to emit light in a first range of wavelengths from 380 nm to 500 nm, preferably from 430 nm to 470 nm, more preferably from 440 nm to 460 nm, and most preferably from about 450 nm.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second light source is configured to emit light in a second range of wavelengths from 520 nm to 590 nm, preferably from 540 nm to 570 nm, and most preferably from about 555 nm, or light in a third range of wavelengths from 590 nm to 635 nm, preferably from 590 nm to 600 nm, and most preferably from about 595 nm.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one or more, preferably all, of the at least two light sources are one or more coherent light sources, preferably one or more laser diodes.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one or more, preferably all, of the at least two light sources are one or more incoherent light sources, preferably one or more LEDs.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The at least one or more coherent light sources are selected from one or more of the following: vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), photonic crystal surface-emitting lasers (PCSELs), topological cavity surface-emitting lasers (TCSELs), and surface mount devices (SMDs).

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least two, preferably all, of the at least two light sources are arranged at the same distance from at least one identical portion of the aerosol-generating matrix.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least two, preferably at least three, light sources are arranged to emit light from different directions onto at least one identical portion of the aerosol-generating matrix.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least two, preferably at least three light sources are arranged along a curved, preferably arc-shaped, more preferably circular line.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a vaporization space in which at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix can be received.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein, The at least two light sources are arranged within the vaporization space, preferably on at least one inner surface of the vaporization space.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least two light sources are arranged such that the light emitted by the at least two light sources has the same angle of incidence on the surface of at least one identical portion of the aerosol generating matrix.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least two light sources are arranged such that light from the at least two light sources is incident at an equal angle on that portion of the aerosol-generating matrix.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a third light source configured to emit light in a third range with a wavelength different from the first range and the second range.

15. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol generation matrix, wherein, The aerosol-generated product is received by the aerosol-generating device.

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