Aerosol-generating device and puff control method

Abstract

The application relates to the aerosol generating technical field and discloses an aerosol generating device and a puffing control method. The aerosol generating device comprises: an atomization assembly configured to atomize an aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol; at least two airflow sensors, each of which is in communication with an airflow channel, and each of the airflow sensors is configured to sense airflow changes in the airflow channel and output an air pressure value or sensing data associated with the air pressure value; and a controller electrically connected to the atomization assembly and the at least two airflow sensors, respectively. The controller is configured to receive the air pressure values or the sensing data output by the at least two airflow sensors respectively, obtain a superimposed value based on the multiple air pressure values or the sensing data, and determine whether to start the atomization assembly according to a relationship between the superimposed value or a change amount of the superimposed value and a preset threshold. Therefore, the reliability of the aerosol generating device in starting under a small puffing force can be improved, and the aerosol generating device can be prevented from being frequently misstarted under a non-real puffing action, thereby improving product safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of aerosol generation technology, and in particular to an aerosol generation device and a suction control method. Background Technology

[0002] In one prior art example, the aerosol generating device includes an atomizing component, an airflow sensor, and a controller. The airflow sensor is connected to the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. When the user inhales, a negative pressure is formed in the airflow channel. The airflow sensor detects the magnitude of the negative pressure, thereby causing the controller to trigger the atomizing component to start heating based on the magnitude of the negative pressure.

[0003] However, due to the sensitivity limitations of existing airflow sensors, when applied to aerosol generators with low negative pressure generated during inhalation, they cannot accurately detect the generation of negative pressure and thus fail to activate the atomizing component in a timely manner, leading to reduced reliability of the aerosol generator's inhalation triggering. For example, existing aerosol generators are designed to inhale aerosols through the user's nasal cavity or mild lung inhalation. However, the negative pressure generated by this inhalation force is relatively low compared to the trigger threshold of existing mainstream airflow sensors, easily resulting in situations where the atomizing component fails to activate during inhalation. Therefore, while customizing airflow sensors to improve their sensitivity and solve the above problem might address other issues during aerosol generator use, such as overly sensitive airflow sensors potentially causing frequent false activations of the aerosol generator under external airflow disturbances or other non-genuine inhalation actions, posing a safety risk. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an aerosol generating device and a suction control method, which can improve the reliability of the aerosol generating device initiation under suction action with a small suction force, and at the same time avoid frequent false starts of the aerosol generating device under non-real suction action, thereby improving product safety.

[0005] At least one embodiment of this application provides an aerosol generating apparatus, including an airflow channel, the aerosol generating apparatus further comprising:

[0006] Atomizing components are used to atomize the aerosol generating matrix to generate aerosols.

[0007] At least two airflow sensors are connected to the airflow channel, and the airflow sensors are configured to sense changes in airflow within the airflow channel and output air pressure values ​​or sensing data associated with air pressure values;

[0008] The controller is electrically connected to the atomizing component and at least two of the airflow sensors respectively. The controller is configured to receive the air pressure value or sensing data output by each of the at least two airflow sensors and obtain a superimposed value based on the multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data, and to determine whether to activate the atomizing component based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change of the superimposed value and a preset threshold.

[0009] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to determine the airflow direction within the airflow channel based on the air pressure value or the magnitude of the sensed data.

[0010] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to add the multiple air pressure values ​​to calculate the superimposed value when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple air pressure values ​​is the same; or, when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple sensing data is the same, to obtain the superimposed value based on the multiple sensing data.

[0011] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to keep the atomizing component in a closed state when the airflow direction determined based on the plurality of air pressure values ​​or the magnitude of the sensing data is different.

[0012] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus further includes an air inlet and a nozzle, wherein the airflow channel is defined between the air inlet and the nozzle;

[0013] The controller is further configured to add the multiple air pressure values ​​to calculate the superimposed value only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple air pressure values ​​is positive; or, to obtain the superimposed value based on the multiple sensing data only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple sensing data is positive.

[0014] The airflow direction from the air inlet to the nozzle is defined as positive, and the airflow direction from the nozzle to the air inlet is defined as negative.

[0015] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to determine whether the superposition value reaches a preset threshold; if the superposition value reaches the preset threshold, then control the atomizing component to start heating; and / or, if the superposition value does not reach the preset threshold, then control the atomizing component to turn off or keep the atomizing component from starting.

[0016] In some embodiments, the controller is further configured to keep the atomizing component in a closed state when at least one of the plurality of the air pressure values ​​or the sensing data is zero or when at least one airflow direction is reversed.

[0017] In some embodiments, when the airflow direction determined by the magnitude of multiple air pressure values ​​is positive, the magnitude range of the air pressure values ​​is -30Pa to -70Pa.

[0018] At least one embodiment of this application provides a suction control method applied to the aerosol generating apparatus described in any of the foregoing embodiments, the method comprising:

[0019] The airflow sensor is configured to receive air pressure values ​​or sensing data output by at least two airflow sensors and obtain a superimposed value based on multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data.

[0020] Whether to activate the atomizing component is determined based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change in the superimposed value and a preset threshold.

[0021] In some embodiments, the method further includes: determining the airflow direction within the airflow channel based on the air pressure value or the magnitude of the sensing data.

[0022] In some embodiments, obtaining the superimposed value based on multiple pressure values ​​or sensing data includes:

[0023] When the airflow direction is determined to be the same based on the magnitude of multiple air pressure values, the multiple air pressure values ​​are added together to obtain the superimposed value;

[0024] When the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of multiple sensing data is the same, the superimposed value is obtained based on the multiple sensing data.

[0025] In some embodiments, the method further includes: keeping the atomizing component in a closed state when the airflow direction determined based on the multiple air pressure values ​​or the magnitude of the sensing data is different.

[0026] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device further includes an air inlet and a nozzle, the airflow channel being defined between the air inlet and the nozzle; the step of obtaining a superimposed value based on multiple pressure values ​​or sensing data includes:

[0027] The superimposed value is calculated by adding the multiple air pressure values ​​only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple air pressure values ​​is positive.

[0028] The superimposed value is obtained only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple sensing data is positive.

[0029] The airflow direction from the air inlet to the nozzle is defined as positive, and the airflow direction from the nozzle to the air inlet is defined as negative.

[0030] In some embodiments, determining whether to activate the atomizing component based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change in the superimposed value and a preset threshold includes:

[0031] Determine whether the superimposed value reaches a preset threshold;

[0032] If so, then control the atomizing component to start heating;

[0033] If not, then control the atomizing component to shut down or keep the atomizing component from starting.

[0034] In some embodiments, the method further includes: maintaining the atomizing component in a closed state when at least one of the plurality of pressure values ​​or the sensing data is zero or when at least one airflow direction is reversed.

[0035] The beneficial effects of this application are as follows: By using at least two airflow sensors that are connected to the airflow channel, the airflow sensors sense changes in the airflow within the airflow channel and output air pressure values ​​or sensing data associated with the air pressure values. The controller receives the air pressure values ​​or sensing data output by each of the at least two airflow sensors and obtains a superimposed value based on multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data. It then determines whether to activate the atomizing component based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change in the superimposed value and a preset threshold. This improves the reliability of the aerosol generating device's activation triggering under suction actions with relatively low suction force, and eliminates the need to increase the sensitivity of the airflow sensors. This avoids frequent false activation of the aerosol generating device under non-real suction actions, thereby improving product safety. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments will be briefly introduced below. In all the drawings, similar elements or parts are generally identified by similar reference numerals. In the drawings, the elements or parts are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol generating device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the frequency values ​​output by the two airflow sensors provided in the embodiments of this application and time.

[0039] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the first suction control method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of the second suction control method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the third suction control method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0042] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the fourth suction control method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the fifth suction control method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0044] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a controller provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0046] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the application. The term "and / or" as used in this specification includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0047] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of this application described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0048] Please see Figure 1 This is an aerosol generating apparatus 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. The aerosol generating apparatus 100 includes an airflow channel 103. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 further includes an air inlet 101 and a nozzle 102, with the airflow channel 103 defined between the air inlet 101 and the nozzle 102.

[0049] The air inlet 101, defined by the housing of the aerosol generating device 100, is the airflow inlet for external air to enter the aerosol generating device 100.

[0050] One or more air inlets 101 may be appropriately arranged to increase the airflow inlet for external air to enter the aerosol generating device 100. In some embodiments, the plurality of air inlets 101 may be divided into main air inlets and auxiliary air inlets, with the orifice diameter of the main air inlet being larger than that of the auxiliary air inlets. In this case, external air mainly enters the aerosol generating device 100 through the main air inlet.

[0051] The suction nozzle 102 comes into contact with the mouth during use and can be held in the mouth. The suction nozzle 102 guides the aerosol within the airflow channel 103 to escape, and the airflow propels the aerosol towards the user's mouth. In some embodiments, the suction nozzle 102 is rotatable between a first position and a second position. When the suction nozzle 102 is rotated to the first position, the airflow channel 103 is open; when the suction nozzle 102 is rotated to the second position, the airflow channel 103 is closed. In some embodiments, the suction nozzle 102 may be appropriately equipped with one or more air outlets.

[0052] The airflow passage 103 is used to guide airflow to provide a path for the aerosol to be discharged outside the body of the aerosol generating device 100. The airflow passage 103 defines an airflow path from at least one air inlet 101 to at least one air outlet.

[0053] according to Figure 1 As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 also includes:

[0054] Atomizing component 10 is used to atomize the aerosol generating matrix to generate aerosols.

[0055] The aerosol-generating matrix can release volatile compounds that can form aerosols. These volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-generating matrix, or through chemical reactions or mechanical stimulation. The aerosol-generating matrix may contain nicotine. The aerosol-generating matrix may be a solid aerosol-generating matrix. Preferably, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco-flavor compounds released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-generating matrix may include non-tobacco materials. Preferably, the aerosol-generating matrix further includes an aerosol-forming agent. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0056] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 and the cartridge can cooperate to form an aerosol generating system. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol generating matrix. The liquid aerosol generating matrix preferably has physical properties, such as boiling point and vapor pressure, suitable for use in the aerosol generating device 100 and the cartridge. If the boiling point is too high, the liquid may not be able to be heated, but if the boiling point is too low, the liquid may be too easily heated. The liquid preferably includes tobacco-containing materials, which include volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the liquid upon heating. Alternatively, or additionally, the liquid may include non-tobacco materials. The liquid may include aqueous solutions, non-aqueous solvents such as ethanol, plant extracts, nicotine, natural or artificial flavorings, or any combination thereof. Preferably, the liquid also includes an aerosol forming agent that facilitates the formation of a thick, stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0057] If the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a liquid substrate, the aerosol generating system may also include a storage section for storing the liquid aerosol generating matrix. Preferably, the liquid storage section is disposed within the cartridge. The advantage of providing a storage section is that it protects the liquid in the storage section from the surrounding air (since air generally cannot enter the liquid storage section), and in some embodiments, from light damage, thus significantly reducing the risk of liquid degradation. Furthermore, it maintains a high level of hygiene. The liquid storage section may be non-refillable. Therefore, when the liquid in the liquid storage section is depleted, the aerosol generating system or cartridge is replaced. Alternatively, the liquid storage section may be refillable. In this case, the aerosol generating system or cartridge can be replaced after the liquid storage section has been refilled a certain number of times. Preferably, the liquid storage section is arranged to hold liquid for a predetermined number of puffs.

[0058] The aerosol generating matrix can be any other type of substrate, such as a gas substrate, a gel substrate, or any combination of various types of substrates.

[0059] If the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol generating matrix, the atomizing assembly 10 may include a capillary wick for conveying the liquid aerosol generating matrix via capillary action. The capillary wick may be disposed in the aerosol generating device 100 or in the cartridge, but preferably, it is disposed in the cartridge. Preferably, the capillary wick is arranged to contact the liquid in the liquid reservoir. Preferably, the capillary wick extends into the liquid reservoir. In this case, during use, the liquid is conveyed from the liquid reservoir into the capillary wick via capillary action. In one embodiment, the liquid at one end of the capillary wick is evaporated by the atomizing assembly 10 to form supersaturated vapor. The supersaturated vapor is mixed with and carried by the gas flow. During flow, the vapor condenses to form an aerosol, which is delivered to the user's mouth. The liquid of the aerosol generating matrix has suitable physical properties, including surface tension and viscosity, such that the liquid is conveyed via the capillary wick through capillary action.

[0060] The capillary wick may have a fibrous or sponge-like structure. The capillary wick preferably comprises a capillary bundle. For example, the capillary wick may comprise multiple fibers or threads or other fine-pore tubes. The fibers or threads are generally aligned longitudinally in the aerosol generation system. Alternatively, the capillary wick may comprise a sponge-like or foam-like material in rod form. The rod may extend longitudinally along the aerosol generation system. The wick's structure forms multiple pores or tubes through which liquid can be transported by capillary action. The capillary wick may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials are capillary materials, such as sponge or foam materials, ceramic-based or graphite-based materials in fiber or sintered powder form, foamed metal or plastic materials, fibrous materials such as spun or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester or bonded polyolefins, polyethylene, polyester or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers, or ceramics. The capillary wick may have any suitable capillary action and porosity to suit different liquid physical properties. Liquids possess physical properties, including but not limited to viscosity, surface tension, density, thermal conductivity, boiling point, and vapor pressure, which allow them to be transported through a capillary device via capillary action. The capillary wick must be suitable to deliver the required amount of liquid to the atomizing assembly 10.

[0061] Alternatively, instead of a capillary wick, the aerosol generation system may include any suitable capillary or porous interface located between the liquid aerosol generation matrix and the atomizing assembly 10 for delivering a desired amount of liquid to the atomizing assembly 10. The capillary or porous interface may be disposed in the cartridge or in the aerosol generation device 100, but preferably, it is disposed in the cartridge. The aerosol generation matrix can be absorbed, coated, impregnated, or otherwise loaded onto any suitable carrier or support.

[0062] Preferably, but not necessarily, the capillary wick or capillary tube or porous interface is housed in the same portion that serves as the liquid storage section.

[0063] The atomizing component 10 may be a heater. The heater can heat the aerosol generating matrix by one or more of conduction, convection, and radiation. The heater may be an electrically powered heater. Alternatively, the heater may be powered by a non-electrical power source, such as combustible fuel: for example, the heater may include a heat-conducting element that heats the matrix by combustion of a gaseous fuel. The heater can heat the aerosol generating matrix by conduction and may be at least partially in contact with the substrate or a carrier on which the substrate is deposited. Alternatively, heat from the heater may be conducted to the substrate via an intermediate heat-conducting element. Alternatively, the heater may transfer heat to ambient air drawn in during use via the aerosol generating system, thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix by convection. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating system is electrically operated and includes an electric heater for heating the aerosol generating matrix.

[0064] An electric heater may include a single heating element. Alternatively, an electric heater may include more than one heating element, such as two or three, or four, five, six or more heating elements. One or more heating elements may be suitably arranged to most effectively heat the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0065] At least one electric heating element preferably comprises a resistive material. Suitable resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors, such as doped ceramics, conductive ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composites made of semiconductor and ceramic materials. Such composites may include doped or undoped ceramics. Suitable examples of doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Suitable examples of metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, constantan, alloys containing nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum-titanium-zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, and iron, as well as high-temperature alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, and stainless steel, iron-aluminum based alloys, and iron-manganese-aluminum based alloys. In composites, the resistive material may be selectively embedded in an insulating material, or encapsulated or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the desired energy transfer and external physicochemical properties. The heating element may comprise a metal-etched foil insulating between two layers of inert material. In this case, the inert material may comprise all polyimide or mica foils.

[0066] Alternatively, at least one electric heating element may include an infrared heating element, a photon source, or an induction heating element.

[0067] At least one electric heating element may take any suitable form. For example, at least one electric heating element may take the form of a heating plate. Alternatively, at least one electric heating element may take the form of a housing or substrate with different conductive portions, or a resistance metal tube. A liquid storage section may be combined with a disposable heating element. Alternatively, if the aerosol generating matrix is ​​liquid, one or more heating needles or rods through the liquid aerosol generating matrix may be suitable. Alternatively, at least one electric heating element may be a dish (end) heater or a combination of a dish heater and a heating needle or rod. Alternatively, at least one electric heating element may comprise a flexible sheet. Other alternatives include heating wires or filaments, such as nickel-chromium (Ni-Cr), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wires, or heating plates. Alternatively, the heating element may be deposited in or on a rigid carrier material.

[0068] At least one electric heating element may include a heat sink or heat accumulator, comprising the ability to absorb and store heat and then release heat over a period of time to heat the aerosol-forming matrix. The heat sink may be formed of any suitable material, such as a suitable metal or ceramic material. Preferably, the material has a high heat capacity (sensitive heat storage material) or is a material capable only of absorbing heat and then releasing it through a reversible process, such as a high-temperature phase change. Suitable sensitive heat storage materials include silica gel, alumina, carbon, glass pads, glass fibers, minerals, metals or alloys such as aluminum, silver, or lead, and cellulose materials. Other suitable materials for releasing heat via a reversible phase change include paraffin wax, sodium acetate, naphthalene, waxes, polyethylene oxide, metals, metal salts, mixtures or alloys of eutectic salts.

[0069] The heat accumulator can be arranged to be in direct contact with the aerosol-generating matrix and to directly transfer the stored heat to the substrate. Alternatively, the heat stored in the radiator or heat accumulator can be transferred to the aerosol-generating matrix via a heat conductor such as a metal pipe.

[0070] At least one heating element can heat the aerosol-generating matrix via conduction. The heating element may be in at least partial contact with the substrate. Alternatively, heat from the heating element can be conducted to the substrate via a heat conductor.

[0071] Alternatively, at least one heating element can transfer heat to the drawn-in ambient air, which during use is drawn in through the aerosol generating device 100 and the cartridge, and then heats the aerosol generating matrix by convection. The ambient air may be heated before passing through the aerosol generating matrix. Alternatively, the ambient air is first drawn in through a liquid substrate and then heated.

[0072] The electric heater may be housed in the device or the cartridge. Preferably, but not necessarily, the electric heater is housed in the same portion as the capillary wick.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol generating matrix, and the aerosol generating system includes a storage section for storing the liquid aerosol generating matrix. The atomizing component 10 of the aerosol generating system includes an electric heater and a capillary wick. In this embodiment, preferably, the capillary wick is arranged to contact the liquid in the liquid storage section. In use, the liquid is conveyed from the liquid storage section to the electric heater through capillary action in the capillary wick. In one embodiment, the capillary wick has a first end and a second end, the first end extending into the liquid storage section to contact the liquid, and the electric heater is arranged to heat the liquid in the second end. In another embodiment, the capillary wick may be placed along the edge of the liquid storage section. When the heater is activated, the liquid at the second end of the capillary wick is evaporated by the heater to form supersaturated vapor. The supersaturated vapor is mixed with and carried into the gas flow. During flow, the vapor condenses to form an aerosol, which is delivered to the user's mouth.

[0074] The liquid reservoir, alternatively including the capillary wick and heater, can be removed from the aerosol generation system as a single component. For example, the liquid reservoir, capillary wick, and heater can be housed within a cartridge.

[0075] The aerosol generation system is electrically operable and may further include a power source. The power source may be housed in the cartridge or in the aerosol generation device 100. Preferably, the power source is housed in the aerosol generation device 100. The power source may be an AC power source or a DC power source. Preferably, the power source is a battery.

[0076] The aerosol generation system may also include an electrical circuit. In one embodiment, the circuit includes a sensor for detecting an airflow indicative of a user's inhalation. In this case, preferably, the circuit is arranged to provide a current pulse to an electric heater when the sensor detects a user's inhalation. Preferably, the time period of the current pulse is preset according to the desired mass of aerosol generation substrate to be evaporated. For this purpose, the circuit is preferably programmable. Alternatively, the circuit may include a manually operable switch for the user to initiate inhalation. The circuit may be housed in a cartridge or aerosol generation device 100. Preferably, the circuit is housed in aerosol generation device 100.

[0077] If the aerosol generating system includes a housing, preferably, the housing is elongated. If the aerosol generating system includes a capillary wick, the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick and the longitudinal axis of the housing may be substantially parallel. The housing may include a housing portion for the aerosol generating device 100 and a housing portion for the cartridge. In this case, all components may be housed in either housing portion. In one embodiment, the housing includes a removable insert comprising a liquid reservoir, a capillary wick, and a heater. In this embodiment, these portions of the aerosol generating system can be removed from the housing as a single component. This can be used, for example, for refilling or replacing the liquid reservoir.

[0078] Preferably, the aerosol generating device 100 and the cartridge can be carried separately or together. Preferably, the aerosol generating device 100 is reusable by the user. Preferably, the cartridge is disposable by the user, for example, when the liquid storage compartment is empty. The aerosol generating device 100 and the cartridge can cooperate to form an aerosol generating system, which is a smoke-generating system and can be comparable in size to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The smoke-generating system can have an overall length between about 30 mm and about 150 mm. The smoke-generating system can have an outer diameter between about 5 mm and about 30 mm. Preferably, the aerosol generating system is an electrically operated smoke-generating system.

[0079] At least two airflow sensors 20 are connected to the airflow channel 103. The airflow sensors 20 are configured to sense changes in airflow within the airflow channel 103 and output air pressure values ​​or sensing data associated with air pressure values.

[0080] The sensing data includes frequency, capacitance, voltage, and charging time.

[0081] In one embodiment, the airflow sensor 20 is disposed in the airflow channel 103 and is in gas communication with the airflow channel 103. In another embodiment, the airflow sensor 20 is disposed in a cavity or passageway of the aerosol generating device 100 that is in gas communication with the airflow channel 103.

[0082] The controller 30 is electrically connected to the atomizing component 10 and at least two airflow sensors 20 respectively. The controller 30 is configured to receive the air pressure value or sensing data output by each of the at least two airflow sensors 20 and obtain a superimposed value based on the multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data, and determine whether to activate the atomizing component 10 based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change in the superimposed value and a preset threshold.

[0083] The controller 30 receives air pressure values ​​or associated sensing data output by at least two airflow sensors 20, including: the controller 30 actively acquires the air pressure values ​​or associated sensing data output by at least two airflow sensors 20. For example, the controller 30 reads the air pressure values ​​or associated sensing data output by at least two airflow sensors 20 at a preset sampling frequency. Alternatively, at least two airflow sensors 20 actively upload their respective air pressure values ​​or associated sensing data. For example, at least two airflow sensors 20 send an interrupt signal to the controller 30 and transmit their respective air pressure values ​​or associated sensing data to the controller 30.

[0084] In one embodiment, the controller 30 receives air pressure values ​​output by at least two airflow sensors 20 and obtains a superimposed value based on the sum of multiple air pressure values. The controller then determines whether to activate the atomizing component 10 based on the relationship between the superimposed value and a preset threshold. In one example, the controller 30 determines whether to activate the atomizing component 10 based on the sum of the air pressure values ​​output by at least two airflow sensors 20 when the user applies a suction action to the mouthpiece 102.

[0085] In another embodiment, the controller 30 receives air pressure values ​​output by at least two airflow sensors 20 and obtains a superimposed value based on the sum of multiple air pressure values. The controller then determines whether to activate the atomizing component 10 based on the relationship between the change in the superimposed value and a preset threshold. In one example, the controller 30 determines whether to activate the atomizing component 10 based on the change in the sum of air pressure values ​​output by at least two airflow sensors 20 when the user applies a suction action to the mouthpiece 102 twice consecutively. In another example, the controller 30 determines whether to activate the atomizing component 10 based on the change in the sum of air pressure values ​​output by at least two airflow sensors 20 when the user applies a suction action to the mouthpiece 102 over two consecutive time intervals. In some embodiments, the controller 30 is further configured to determine the airflow direction within the airflow channel 103 based on the magnitude of the air pressure value or the sensed data.

[0086] It should be noted that the air pressure value or sensing data can characterize the magnitude of the airflow change within the airflow channel 103 and the airflow direction within the airflow channel 103. Therefore, the controller 30 can determine the airflow direction within the airflow channel 103 based on the magnitude of the air pressure value or sensing data. Figure 1 As shown, the airflow direction from the air inlet 101 to the nozzle 102 is defined as positive, and the airflow direction from the nozzle 102 to the air inlet 101 is defined as negative.

[0087] In some embodiments, the controller 30 is further configured to add the multiple air pressure values ​​to calculate a superimposed value when the airflow direction is determined to be the same based on the magnitude of the multiple air pressure values; or, when the airflow direction is determined to be the same based on the magnitude of the multiple sensing data, to obtain a superimposed value based on the multiple sensing data.

[0088] At least two airflow sensors 20 sense changes in airflow within the airflow channel 103 and output air pressure values. The controller 30 receives the air pressure values ​​output by each of the at least two airflow sensors 20. When the airflow direction is determined to be the same based on the magnitude of multiple air pressure values, the multiple air pressure values ​​are added together to calculate a superimposed value.

[0089] Taking the aerosol generating device 100, which includes airflow sensor a and airflow sensor b, as an example, assuming that the air pressure value output by airflow sensor a is -50Pa and the air pressure value output by airflow sensor b is -50Pa, the two air pressure values ​​indicate that the airflow direction is the same. The two air pressure values ​​are added together to obtain the superimposed value of -100Pa.

[0090] At least two airflow sensors 20 sense changes in airflow within the airflow channel 103 and output sensing data associated with air pressure values. The controller 30 receives the sensing data output by each of the at least two airflow sensors 20. When the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of multiple sensing data is the same, a superimposed value is obtained based on the multiple sensing data.

[0091] Please see Figure 2 Taking an aerosol generating device 100 that includes an airflow sensor a and an airflow sensor b, and whose sensing data includes frequency values, as an example, when the aerosol generating device 100 is not drawing air, the airflow sensor a outputs a reference frequency value f. a0 The airflow sensor b outputs a reference frequency value f. b0 When the aerosol generating device 100 is drawing air, the frequency value f output by the airflow sensor a is... a1 and the frequency value f output by airflow sensor b b1 The reference frequency value f has changed. a0 and reference frequency value f b0 They can be equal or unequal.

[0092] In one embodiment, the reference frequency value f a0 and reference frequency value f b0 It is a fixed value. In another embodiment, the reference frequency value f a0 and reference frequency value f b0 The frequency can be updated according to a preset algorithm. For example, airflow sensor a detects its frequency value at 10ms intervals. When the difference between the two most recent detected frequency values ​​of airflow sensor a is less than a preset update threshold, the current frequency value is used as the reference frequency value f of airflow sensor a. a0 The reference frequency value f of airflow sensor b. b0 Update the reference frequency value f of airflow sensor a a0 The method is the same.

[0093] The controller 30 acquires the frequency value f output by the airflow sensor a according to the preset sampling frequency. a1 and the frequency value f output by airflow sensor b b1 Calculate the frequency value f a1 and reference frequency value f a0 The difference Δf a and frequency value f b1 and reference frequency value f b0 The difference Δf b ,like Figure 2 As shown, the difference Δf is calculated at sampling times t1 to t5. a Sum and difference Δf b All are 0. At sampling time t6, the frequency value f a1 Less than the reference frequency value f a0 The difference Δf a If it is a negative number, the frequency value f b1 Less than the reference frequency value f b0 The difference Δf b If the value is negative, the determined airflow direction is the same, and the difference Δf is used.a Sum and difference Δf b The summation value is obtained by performing an addition calculation.

[0094] Among them, the difference Δf a The air pressure value sensed by airflow sensor a in airflow channel 103 has a corresponding relationship with the air pressure value, and the difference Δf b The air pressure value sensed by the airflow sensor b in the airflow channel 103 corresponds to the air pressure value of the airflow changes.

[0095] In some embodiments, the frequency value f a1 Greater than the reference frequency value f a0 The difference Δf a If it is a positive number, the frequency value f b1 Greater than the reference frequency value f b0 The difference Δf b If the value is positive, the determined airflow direction is the same, and the difference Δf is used. a Sum and difference Δf b The summation value is obtained by performing an addition calculation.

[0096] If the sensing data includes capacitance or voltage values, and the airflow direction is determined to be the same based on the magnitude of multiple sensing data, the step of obtaining the superimposed value based on multiple sensing data can refer to the step of sensing data including frequency values, and will not be repeated here.

[0097] In some other embodiments, taking the aerosol generating device 100 as including an airflow sensor a and an airflow sensor b, and the sensing data including charging time as an example, when the aerosol generating device 100 is not aspirating, the constant current source inside the airflow sensor a charges the capacitor inside the airflow sensor a with a small current, and the charging time ta0 when the capacitor inside the airflow sensor a rises from 0V to a preset voltage is calculated; the constant current source inside the airflow sensor b charges the capacitor inside the airflow sensor b with a small current, and the charging time tb0 when the capacitor inside the airflow sensor b rises from 0V to a preset voltage is calculated; when the aerosol generating device 100 is aspirating, the constant current source inside the airflow sensor a charges the capacitor inside the airflow sensor b with a small current, and the charging time tb0 when the capacitor inside the airflow sensor b rises from 0V to a preset voltage is calculated; when the aerosol generating device 100 aspirates, the constant current source inside the airflow sensor a charges the capacitor inside the airflow sensor b with a small current, and the charging time tb0 when the capacitor inside the airflow sensor b rises from 0V to a preset voltage ... A constant current source charges the capacitor inside airflow sensor a with a small current, and calculates the charging time ta1 when the capacitor inside airflow sensor a reaches a preset voltage from 0V. A constant current source inside airflow sensor b charges the capacitor inside airflow sensor b with a small current, and calculates the charging time tb1 when the capacitor inside airflow sensor b reaches a preset voltage from 0V. The difference Δta between charging time ta0 and charging time ta1, and the difference Δtb between charging time tb0 and charging time tb1 are calculated. When the airflow direction determined by the difference Δta and the difference Δtb are the same, the difference Δta and the difference Δtb are added together to obtain the superposition value.

[0098] Among them, the difference Δta and the air pressure value of the airflow change in the airflow channel 103 sensed by airflow sensor a are related, and the difference Δtb and the air pressure value of the airflow change in the airflow channel 103 sensed by airflow sensor b are related.

[0099] Same airflow direction includes both airflow directions being forward and both airflow directions being reverse. Further, the controller 30 determines whether to activate the atomizing component 10 based on the relationship between the superimposed value when airflow directions are the same and a preset threshold. In this case, regardless of whether the airflow is forward or reverse, the aerosol generating device 100 can be activated with a relatively small suction force.

[0100] In some embodiments, the controller 30 is further configured to keep the atomizing component 10 in a closed state when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data is different.

[0101] When the determined airflow direction is different, it indicates that the current suction action may not be a real suction action, or that there are other interferences in the current suction action, causing the aerosol generating device 100 to be falsely activated. In this case, keeping the atomizing component 10 in the closed state is beneficial to improving the reliability of the activation and activation of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0102] In some embodiments, the controller 30 is further configured to add multiple air pressure values ​​to obtain a superimposed value only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of multiple air pressure values ​​is positive; or, to add multiple sensing data to obtain the superimposed value only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of multiple sensing data is positive; wherein, the airflow direction from the air inlet 101 to the nozzle 102 is defined as positive, and the airflow direction from the nozzle 102 to the air inlet 101 is defined as negative.

[0103] Please refer to it again. Figure 2 Taking an aerosol generating device 100 that includes an airflow sensor a and an airflow sensor b, and whose sensing data includes frequency values, as an example, when the aerosol generating device 100 is not drawing air, the airflow sensor a outputs a reference frequency value f. a0 The airflow sensor b outputs a reference frequency value f. b0 When the aerosol generating device 100 is drawing air, the frequency value f output by the airflow sensor a is... a1 and the frequency value f output by airflow sensor b b1 The reference frequency value f has changed. a0 and reference frequency value f b0 They can be equal or unequal. Controller 30 acquires the frequency value f output by airflow sensor a according to a preset sampling frequency. a1 and the frequency value f output by airflow sensor b b1Calculate the frequency value f a1 and reference frequency value f a0 The difference Δf a and frequency value f b1 and reference frequency value f b0 The difference Δf b ,like Figure 2 As shown, the difference Δf is calculated at sampling times t1 to t5. a Sum and difference Δf b All are 0. At sampling time t6, the frequency value f a1 Less than the reference frequency value f a0 The difference Δf a If it is a negative number, the frequency value f b1 Less than the reference frequency value f b0 The difference Δf b If the value is negative, the determined airflow direction is positive, and the difference Δf is used. a Sum and difference Δf b The summation value is obtained by performing an addition calculation.

[0104] When a user applies a suction action to the nozzle 102, the airflow direction within the airflow channel 103 is positive. Therefore, a positive airflow direction indicates that the aerosol generating device 100 is performing normal suction, which is recorded as one suction action. An appropriate example of a reverse airflow direction is when the user's mouth acts on the nozzle 102, and the human respiratory airflow moves from the nozzle 102 to the air inlet 101. Therefore, a true suction action occurs only when all airflow directions are positive. In this case, multiple air pressure values ​​are added together to obtain a superimposed value, preventing the aerosol generating device 100 from erroneously activating under non-true suction actions, thus improving product safety.

[0105] In some embodiments, the controller 30 is further configured to determine whether the superimposed value reaches a preset threshold; if the superimposed value reaches the preset threshold, the controller controls the atomizing component 10 to start heating; and / or, if the superimposed value does not reach the preset threshold, the controller controls the atomizing component 10 to turn off or keep the atomizing component from starting.

[0106] For example, existing aerosol generating devices 100 are designed to inhale aerosols through a user's nasal inhalation or mild lung inhalation. The negative pressure value generated by this inhalation force, such as -50 Pa, cannot be detected by the airflow sensor 20, which generally has a limit sensitivity range of -100±30 Pa. Based on this, this application controls whether the atomizing component 10 starts heating by judging whether the superimposed value reaches a preset threshold. This does not require improvements to the structure and performance of the airflow sensor 20, and enables the aerosol generating device 100 to be triggered by inhalation actions with relatively low inhalation force.

[0107] In some embodiments, the controller 30 is further configured to keep the atomizing component 10 in a closed state when at least one of the plurality of air pressure values ​​or sensing data is zero or when at least one airflow direction is reversed.

[0108] As mentioned above, a real suction action occurs only when all airflow directions are positive, and when at least one of the multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data is zero, at least one airflow sensor 20 may fail. In this case, keeping the atomizing component 10 in the off state is beneficial to improving the reliability of the aerosol generating device 100 start-up trigger.

[0109] In some embodiments, when the airflow direction determined by the magnitude of multiple air pressure values ​​is positive, the range of air pressure values ​​is -30Pa to -70Pa.

[0110] For example, as some examples, existing aerosol generating devices 100 are designed to inhale aerosols through the user's mild inhalation habits, with a large diameter of the air inlet 101 and / or airflow channel 103, for example, with a flow rate of 25 mL / s and a suction resistance of only about 50 Pa, falling between -30 Pa and -70 Pa.

[0111] This application embodiment uses at least two airflow sensors that are connected to the airflow channel. The airflow sensors sense changes in the airflow within the airflow channel and output air pressure values ​​or sensing data associated with the air pressure values. The controller receives the air pressure values ​​or sensing data output by each of the at least two airflow sensors and obtains a superimposed value based on multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data associated with the air pressure values. The controller then determines whether to activate the atomizing component based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change in the superimposed value and a preset threshold. This improves the reliability of the aerosol generating device's activation triggering under suction actions with relatively low suction force, and eliminates the need to increase the sensitivity of the airflow sensors. This avoids frequent false activation of the aerosol generating device under non-real suction actions, thereby improving product safety.

[0112] Please see Figure 3 This application provides a suction control method, applied to the aerosol generating apparatus of any of the foregoing embodiments, the method comprising:

[0113] Step S31: Receive air pressure values ​​or sensing data output by at least two airflow sensors and obtain a superimposed value based on multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data. The airflow sensors are configured to sense airflow changes in the airflow channel and output air pressure values ​​or sensing data associated with air pressure values.

[0114] Step S32: Determine whether to activate the atomizing component based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change in the superimposed value and the preset threshold.

[0115] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4-7 The method further includes, according to any one of the accompanying drawings:

[0116] Step S33: Determine the airflow direction within the airflow channel based on the air pressure value or the magnitude of the sensing data.

[0117] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4-7 In any of the accompanying drawings, step S31 includes:

[0118] Step S311: Receive the air pressure value or sensing data output by at least two airflow sensors.

[0119] Please continue reading. Figure 4 After step S33, step S31 further includes:

[0120] Step S312: When the airflow direction is determined to be the same based on the magnitude of multiple air pressure values, the multiple air pressure values ​​are added together to calculate the superimposed value; when the airflow direction is determined to be the same based on the magnitude of multiple sensing data, the superimposed value is obtained based on the multiple sensing data.

[0121] In some embodiments, please continue reading Figure 5 The method further includes:

[0122] Step S34: When the airflow direction determined by multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data is different, keep the atomizing component in the off state.

[0123] Please continue reading. Figure 6 After step S33, step S31 further includes:

[0124] Step S313: If the airflow direction determined by the magnitude of multiple air pressure values ​​is positive, the multiple air pressure values ​​are added together to calculate the superimposed value; if the airflow direction determined by the magnitude of multiple sensing data is positive, the superimposed value is obtained based on the multiple sensing data.

[0125] The airflow direction from the air inlet to the nozzle is defined as positive, and the airflow direction from the nozzle to the air inlet is defined as negative.

[0126] In some embodiments, please continue reading Figure 4 or Figure 6 Step S32 is achieved through the following steps:

[0127] Step S321: Determine whether the superimposed value has reached the preset threshold.

[0128] Step S322: If yes, then control the atomizing component to start heating.

[0129] Step S323: If not, control the atomizing component to shut down or keep the atomizing component from starting.

[0130] In some embodiments, please continue reading Figure 7 The method further includes:

[0131] Step S35: When at least one of the multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data is zero or when at least one airflow direction is reversed, keep the atomizing component in the off state.

[0132] Please see Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a controller provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 8 As shown, the controller 30 includes at least one processor 301 and a memory 302 communicatively connected to the at least one processor 301. For example, the memory 302 is connected to the processor 301 via a bus.

[0133] Processor 301 is configured to support controller 30 in performing the corresponding functions in the methods described in the above method embodiments. The processor may be a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a hardware chip, or any combination thereof. The aforementioned hardware chip may be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a combination thereof. The aforementioned PLD may be a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a generic array logic (GAL), or any combination thereof.

[0134] Memory 302 is used to store program code, etc. Memory 302 may include volatile memory (VM), such as random access memory (RAM); memory may also include non-volatile memory (NVM), such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), or solid-state drive (SSD); memory 302 may also include combinations of the above types of memory.

[0135] The memory 302 can be used to store non-volatile software programs, non-volatile computer-executable programs, and modules, such as the program instructions / modules corresponding to the suction control method in the embodiments of this application. The processor 301 executes various functional applications and data processing of the suction control method by running the non-volatile software programs, instructions, and modules stored in the memory 302, that is, it realizes the functions of each module or unit provided by the suction control method.

[0136] The memory 302 may include a program storage area and a data storage area, wherein the program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function. The data storage area may store data created based on the use of the aerosol generating device. In some embodiments, the memory 302 may optionally include memory remotely located relative to the processor, which can be connected to the aerosol generating device via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof. One or more modules are stored in the memory 302 and, when executed by one or more processors 301, perform the suction control method in any of the above method embodiments, for example, performing the method steps described in the above method embodiments.

[0137] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made using the content of this application's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising an airflow channel, characterized in that, The aerosol generating device further includes: Atomizing components are used to atomize the aerosol generating matrix to generate aerosols. At least two airflow sensors are connected to the airflow channel, and the airflow sensors are configured to sense changes in airflow within the airflow channel and output air pressure values ​​or sensing data associated with air pressure values; The controller is electrically connected to the atomizing component and at least two of the airflow sensors respectively. The controller is configured to receive the air pressure value or sensing data output by each of the at least two airflow sensors and obtain a superimposed value based on the multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data, and to determine whether to activate the atomizing component based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change of the superimposed value and a preset threshold.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to determine the airflow direction within the airflow channel based on the air pressure value or the magnitude of the sensed data.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The controller is further configured to add the multiple air pressure values ​​to calculate the superimposed value when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple air pressure values ​​is the same; or, when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple sensing data is the same, to obtain the superimposed value based on the multiple sensing data.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to keep the atomizing component in a closed state when the airflow direction determined based on multiple air pressure values ​​or the magnitude of the sensing data is different.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The aerosol generating device further includes an air inlet and a nozzle, and the airflow channel is defined between the air inlet and the nozzle; The controller is further configured to add the multiple air pressure values ​​to calculate the superimposed value only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple air pressure values ​​is positive; or, to obtain the superimposed value based on the multiple sensing data only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple sensing data is positive. The airflow direction from the air inlet to the nozzle is defined as positive, and the airflow direction from the nozzle to the air inlet is defined as negative.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The controller is further configured to determine whether the superposition value reaches a preset threshold; if the superposition value reaches the preset threshold, then control the atomizing component to start heating; and / or, if the superposition value does not reach the preset threshold, then control the atomizing component to turn off or keep the atomizing component from starting.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to keep the atomizing component in a closed state when at least one of the plurality of the air pressure values ​​or the sensing data is zero or when at least one airflow direction is reversed.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the airflow direction determined by the magnitude of multiple air pressure values ​​is positive, the range of the air pressure values ​​is -30Pa to -70Pa.

9. A suction control method, characterized in that, The method, applied to the aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprises: The airflow sensor is configured to receive air pressure values ​​or sensing data output by at least two airflow sensors and obtain a superimposed value based on multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data. Whether to activate the atomizing component is determined based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change in the superimposed value and a preset threshold.

10. The suction control method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: determining the airflow direction within the airflow channel based on the air pressure value or the magnitude of the sensing data.

11. The suction control method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The superimposed value obtained based on multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data includes: When the airflow direction is determined to be the same based on the magnitude of multiple air pressure values, the multiple air pressure values ​​are added together to obtain the superimposed value; When the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of multiple sensing data is the same, the superimposed value is obtained based on the multiple sensing data.

12. The suction control method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: when the airflow direction determined based on multiple air pressure values ​​or the magnitude of the sensing data is different, keeping the atomizing component in a closed state.

13. The suction control method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The aerosol generating device further includes an air inlet and a nozzle, and the airflow channel is defined between the air inlet and the nozzle; the method of obtaining a superimposed value based on multiple air pressure values ​​or sensing data includes: The superimposed value is calculated by adding the multiple air pressure values ​​only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple air pressure values ​​is positive. The superimposed value is obtained only when the airflow direction determined based on the magnitude of the multiple sensing data is positive. The airflow direction from the air inlet to the nozzle is defined as positive, and the airflow direction from the nozzle to the air inlet is defined as negative.

14. The suction control method according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that, The step of determining whether to activate the atomizing component based on the relationship between the superimposed value or the change in the superimposed value and a preset threshold includes: Determine whether the superimposed value reaches a preset threshold; If so, then control the atomizing component to start heating; If not, then control the atomizing component to shut down or keep the atomizing component from starting.

15. The suction control method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: keeping the atomizing component in a closed state when at least one of the multiple air pressure values ​​or the sensing data is zero or when at least one airflow direction is reversed.

Images