Aerosol generating device and heating mechanism for aerosol generating device

Abstract

The utility model provides an aerial fog generating device and a heating mechanism for the aerial fog generating device. The aerial fog generating device comprises a cavity, a gas generator and a gas generator, and the cavity is provided with an open end and a tail end opposite to the open end in the longitudinal direction; the aerosol-generating article can be received in or removed from the chamber through the open end; a heater at least partially surrounding or defining the chamber for heating the aerosol-generating article received in the chamber; a rigid closure element defining a longitudinal length of the chamber and closing and defining an end of the chamber; the closure element is longitudinally engaged with the heater; the sealing element and the heater are hermetically sealed to prevent air from entering the cavity from between the sealing element and the heater. According to the aerial fog generating device, the tail end of the cavity is sealed by the sealing element, and the sealing element is connected with the heater in the airtight sealing manner, so that harmful substances such as siloxane and the like which are released after heat of the heater is easily absorbed by adopting a flexible silica gel sealing element for sealing are eliminated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of heat-not-burn aerosol generation, and in particular to an aerosol generating device and a heating mechanism for the aerosol generating device. Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles (eg, cigarettes, cigars, etc.) burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. People have attempted to replace these tobacco-burning articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion.

[0003] An example of such a product is a heating device that releases a compound by heating rather than burning a material. For example, the material may be tobacco or other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine. A known heating device heats tobacco or non-tobacco products by radiating infrared rays from the outside through a tubular infrared heating element; and by arranging annular support elements at both ends of the tubular infrared heating element to support and hold the infrared heating element from both ends; and a sealing ring, such as an O-ring, is used to seal the support element and the infrared heating element. Utility Model Content

[0004] One embodiment of the present application provides an aerosol generating device, which is configured to heat an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol; comprising:

[0005] a chamber having an open end and a terminal end facing each other in a longitudinal direction; an aerosol-generating article can be received in or removed from the chamber through the open end;

[0006] a heater at least partially surrounding or defining the chamber for heating an aerosol-generating article received in the chamber;

[0007] a rigid closure element defining the longitudinal length of the chamber and closing or defining the ends of the chamber; the closure element being longitudinally engaged with the heater; the closure element and the heater being hermetically sealed to prevent air from entering the chamber from therebetween;

[0008] In some embodiments, the sealing element and the heater are hermetically sealed by gluing or welding.

[0009] In some embodiments, the adhesive includes glass adhesive.

[0010] In some embodiments, there is no silicone sealing element between the heater and the closure element.

[0011] In some embodiments, the heater is at least partially inserted into the closure element.

[0012] In some embodiments, the heater and the closure element are separately formed and subsequently connected, rather than being integrally molded or formed.

[0013] In some embodiments, the closure element comprises:

[0014] a substantially tubular side wall, and an end wall perpendicular to the side wall;

[0015] The side wall is connected to the heater; the end wall closes and defines the end of the chamber.

[0016] In some embodiments, an abutment portion extending into the side wall is arranged on the end wall, and the abutment portion is used for the aerosol generating product received in the chamber to abut against to form a stop;

[0017] An annular gap is formed or defined between the side wall and the abutment portion for receiving and retaining debris or aerosol condensate falling out of the aerosol generating article.

[0018] In some embodiments, the extension length or protrusion height of the abutment portion is less than the length of the side wall. In an embodiment, the abutment portion does not extend into the heater, and is thus longitudinally staggered or avoided from the heater.

[0019] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0020] Proximal and distal ends facing away from each other;

[0021] a substantially annular retaining element proximate to or located at the proximal end and surrounding or defining an opening through which an aerosol-generating article can be received in or removed from the chamber;

[0022] a support disposed at least partially between the closure element and the distal end and at least partially supporting the closure element and the heater;

[0023] The heater and closure element are longitudinally retained between the clamping element and the bracket.

[0024] In some embodiments, the heater and closure element are resiliently held between the clamping element and the bracket.

[0025] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0026] An elastic body is located between the closure element and the support and is at least partially squeezed or compressed by them.

[0027] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the sealing element is less than 5 W / mk to prevent heat from the heater from being transferred to the elastomer.

[0028] In some embodiments, the closure element is made of quartz, glass, or ceramic.

[0029] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0030] Proximal and distal ends facing away from each other;

[0031] a substantially annular retaining element proximate to or disposed at the proximal end and surrounding or defining an opening through which an aerosol-generating article can be received in or removed from the chamber;

[0032] A rigid flange is at least partially located between the clamping element and the heater and is configured to mechanically couple the clamping element and the heater.

[0033] In some embodiments, the flange and the heater are hermetically sealed by gluing or welding;

[0034] And / or, there is no silicone sealing element between the flange and the heater.

[0035] In some embodiments, a flexible sealing element is arranged between the flange and the clamping element for providing an airtight seal therebetween;

[0036] The thermal conductivity of the flange is less than 5 W / mk, so as to prevent or reduce the heat of the heater from being transferred to the sealing element through the flange.

[0037] In some embodiments, the clamping element is arranged with a plurality of retaining ribs around the opening; the plurality of retaining ribs are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction; when the aerosol generating product is received in the chamber from the opening, the plurality of retaining ribs radially abut against the aerosol generating product, thereby clamping or retaining the aerosol generating product between the plurality of retaining ribs.

[0038] In some embodiments, the clamping element further defines a plurality of air gaps between adjacent retaining ribs; when the aerosol generating article is received in the chamber from the opening, the air gaps are configured to provide an inlet for external air to enter the chamber; and the aerosol generating device is constructed so that external air can only enter the chamber from the air gaps.

[0039] Another embodiment of the present application further provides an aerosol generating device, which is configured to heat an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol; comprising:

[0040] Proximal and distal ends facing away from each other;

[0041] a substantially annular gripping element proximate to or located at the proximal end and surrounding or defining the opening;

[0042] a chamber for receiving an aerosol-generating article; the aerosol-generating article can be received in or removed from the chamber through the opening;

[0043] a heater at least partially surrounding or defining the chamber for heating an aerosol-generating article received in the chamber;

[0044] A rigid flange is at least partially located between the clamping element and the heater and is configured to mechanically couple the clamping element and the heater.

[0045] In some embodiments, the flange and the heater are hermetically sealed by gluing or welding;

[0046] And / or, there is no silicone sealing element between the flange and the heater.

[0047] In some embodiments, a flexible sealing element is arranged between the flange and the clamping element for providing an airtight seal therebetween;

[0048] The thermal conductivity of the flange is less than 5 W / mk, so as to prevent or reduce the heat of the heater from being transferred to the sealing element through the flange.

[0049] Another embodiment of the present application further provides a heating mechanism for an aerosol generating device, comprising:

[0050] A substantially tubular body having a first end and a second end opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction;

[0051] a heating element formed on or bonded to the substrate;

[0052] a rigid closure element proximate the second end of the substrate and longitudinally engaged with the substrate; the closure element being hermetically sealed with the substrate;

[0053] The closing element has an end wall facing away from the base, and the hollow of the base and / or the closing element is closed by the end wall, so that external air can only enter the base and / or the closing element from the first end.

[0054] In some embodiments, the closure element is shielded from the heating element.

[0055] In the above aerosol generating device, the end of the chamber is closed by a closing element, and the closing element is connected to the heater in an airtight manner to eliminate the release of harmful substances such as silicone after absorbing the heat of the heater when sealing by using a flexible silicone sealing element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] One or more embodiments are exemplarily described by pictures in the corresponding drawings, and these exemplified descriptions do not constitute limitations on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings represent similar elements, and unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings do not constitute proportional limitations.

[0057] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device provided by an embodiment;

[0058] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device from one perspective;

[0059] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device receiving an aerosol generating product;

[0060] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the middle bracket from one perspective;

[0061] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A structural diagram of the middle bracket from another perspective;

[0062] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the first housing and the clamping element after assembly;

[0063] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first housing and the clamping element after assembly;

[0064] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A structural schematic diagram of the heating mechanism from one perspective;

[0065] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A structural schematic diagram of the heating mechanism from another perspective;

[0066] Fig.10 yes Figure 8 An exploded schematic diagram of a heating mechanism from one perspective;

[0067] Fig.11 yes Figure 8 An exploded schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of the heating mechanism;

[0068] Fig.12 Is an aerosol generating product received at Figure 8 Schematic diagram of the heating mechanism;

[0069] Fig.13FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generating article according to another embodiment being received in an aerosol-generating device and heated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] In order to facilitate the understanding of the present application, the present application is described in more detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods.

[0071] One embodiment of the present application provides an aerosol generating device 100 that heats, rather than burns, an aerosol generating product 1000, such as a cigarette, so that at least one component of the aerosol generating product 1000 is volatilized or released to form an aerosol for inhalation, for example Figure 1 shown.

[0072] In an optional embodiment, the aerosol generating article 1000 preferably uses a tobacco-containing material that releases volatile compounds from the substrate when heated; or it can also be a non-tobacco material that can be heated and suitable for electric heating and smoking. The aerosol generating article 1000 preferably uses a solid substrate, which can include one or more of powder, particles, fragments, strips or sheets of one or more of herb leaves, tobacco leaves, homogenized tobacco, and expanded tobacco; or, the solid substrate can contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds to be released when the substrate is heated.

[0073] according to Figures 1 to 3 As shown, when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the aerosol generating device 100, a portion thereof is exposed outside the aerosol generating device 100, such as a filter tip, which is advantageous for a user to inhale.

[0074] The structure of the aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment of the present application can be seen in Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device 100 is generally constructed in a longitudinal shape, and the aerosol generating device 100 includes:

[0075] The housing, which basically defines the outer surface of the aerosol generating device 100, has a proximal end 110 and a distal end 120 opposite to each other along the length direction; in use, the proximal end 110 is the end close to the user for easy operation of the aerosol generating product 1000 and inhalation; the distal end 120 is the end away from the user.

[0076] In some examples, the housing can be formed of a metal or alloy such as stainless steel, aluminum, etc. Other suitable materials include various plastics (eg, polycarbonate), metal-plating over plastic, ceramics, and the like.

[0077] according to Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the housing of the aerosol generating device 100 includes:

[0078] The first housing 10 is arranged near the proximal end 110 along the length direction and defines the proximal end 110 of the housing;

[0079] The second shell 20 is arranged near the distal end 120 along the length direction and defines the distal end 120 of the housing; Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are both in a tubular or cylindrical shape with an inner cavity; and the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are substantially coaxially arranged.

[0080] according to Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes:

[0081] The battery core 21 is used for power supply; the battery core 21 is located in the second housing 20, or the battery core 21 is arranged near the distal end 120; the battery core 21 is basically arranged along the longitudinal extension of the aerosol generating device 100;

[0082] The charging connector 121 , such as a USB-type-C interface, is formed or arranged between the battery cell 21 and the distal end 120 , and is used to charge the battery cell 240 ;

[0083] The circuit board 23 , such as a PCB board or an FPC board, is used to control the battery cell 21 to provide power to the heating mechanism 30 . In a specific implementation, the circuit board 23 is basically arranged along the longitudinal extension of the aerosol generating device 100 .

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the DC supply voltage provided by the battery cell 21 is in the range of about 2.5V to about 9.0V, and the amperage of the DC current that the battery cell 21 can provide is in the range of about 2.5A to about 20A. Typically, the battery cell 21 is a rechargeable battery. As an alternative, the battery cell 21 may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The battery cell 21 may need to be recharged and may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more puffs; for example, the battery cell 21 may have sufficient capacity to allow continuous generation of aerosols for a period of about six minutes or in a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the battery cell 21 may have sufficient capacity to allow a predetermined number of heating starts of aerosol-generating articles 1000.

[0085] according to Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes:

[0086] The bracket 22 is made of a rigid material such as organic polymer plastic or ceramic, and is used to support, hold or fix the battery cell 21 , the circuit board 23 and the heating mechanism 30 .

[0087] Specifically in Figures 2 to 5In the embodiment, the bracket 22 is basically arranged to extend longitudinally; the bracket 22 may include: a first support portion 221, a second support portion 223 and a third support portion 224 arranged longitudinally. The first support portion 221 and the third support portion 224 are basically perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device 100; the second support portion 223 extends longitudinally of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0088] In some embodiments, the second support portion 223 is arranged away from the longitudinal center axis of the aerosol generating device 100 / the bracket 22. Specifically, in the embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the width direction. The distance between the second support portion 223 and the second side is smaller than the distance between the second support portion 223 and the first side; or, the second support portion 223 is arranged relatively closer to the second side.

[0089] according to Figures 2 to 5 As shown in FIG. , the support 22 is defined or formed with:

[0090] A first holding cavity 225 is located between the second support portion 223 and the first side; the first holding cavity 225 is open toward the first side to accommodate or hold the battery cell 21;

[0091] The second holding cavity 226 is located between the second supporting portion 223 and the second side; the second holding cavity 226 is open toward the second side to accommodate or hold the circuit board 23 .

[0092] In the embodiment, the first retaining cavity 225 and / or the second retaining cavity 226 are located between the first support portion 221 and the third support portion 224. In the embodiment, along the width direction of the bracket 22, the first retaining cavity 225 and the second retaining cavity 226 are respectively located on both sides of the second support portion 223. A connecting structure 227, such as a boss, is further arranged on the surface of the second support portion 223 facing the second side, for fasteners, such as screws, to pass through the circuit board 23 for connection, thereby firmly connecting the circuit board 23 to the second support portion 223.

[0093] In the embodiment, a mounting hole 228 is further arranged on the third support portion 224 ; the mounting hole 227 is used to install or accommodate the charging connector 121 .

[0094] according to Figures 1 to 7 As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes:

[0095] A substantially annular clamping element 11 , located near or disposed at the proximal end 110 ;

[0096] The clamping element 11 surrounds or defines an opening 111 at the proximal end 110, and the user can removably accommodate the aerosol generating article 1000 in the aerosol generating device 100 through the opening 111. For example, when inhalation is required, the user accommodates the aerosol generating article 1000 in the aerosol generating device 100 through the opening 111, and operates the aerosol generating device 100 to heat the aerosol generating article 1000 to generate aerosol for inhalation; when inhalation is completed, the user removes the aerosol generating article 1000 from the aerosol generating device 100 through the opening 111.

[0097] In some embodiments, the clamping element 11 is made of a rigid polymer plastic, ceramic or metal. In some embodiments, the clamping element 11 is tightly mounted or assembled with the first housing 10; for example, the clamping element 11 and the first housing 10 are tightly assembled by riveting, interference or the like.

[0098] according to Figures 2 to 7 As shown, the inner surface of the annular clamping element 11 surrounding or defining the opening 111 is provided with a plurality of axially extending retaining ribs 112; the plurality of retaining ribs 112 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. When the aerosol generating article 1000 is received into the aerosol generating device 100 from the opening 111, the plurality of retaining ribs 112 surround and abut against the aerosol generating article 1000, thereby clamping or retaining the aerosol generating article 1000 between the plurality of retaining ribs 112.

[0099] according to Figures 2 to 7 As shown, a plurality of air gaps 113 located between adjacent retaining ribs 112 are formed or defined on the inner surface of the annular clamping element 11; when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the aerosol generating device 100 through the opening 111, the air gaps 113 serve as an inlet for providing external air to enter the aerosol generating device 100. Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Fig.12 As shown by the middle arrow R1 , external air enters from the air gap 113 , and then enters into the aerosol generating product 1000 through the gap between the aerosol generating product 1000 and the heating mechanism 30 .

[0100] according to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes:

[0101] The heating mechanism 30 is used to receive and heat the aerosol-generating article 1000. The heating mechanism 30 is longitudinally and firmly mounted and held between the clamping element 11 and the first support portion 221 of the bracket 22.

[0102] according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first support portion 221 of the bracket 22 is defined as follows:

[0103] The substantially annular support wall 222 is used to support the heating mechanism 30. In an embodiment, the annular support wall 222 is located on a side of the first support portion 221 of the bracket 22 facing the proximal end 110.

[0104] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the heating mechanism 30 is configured to be substantially cylindrical. The cylindrical heating mechanism 30 surrounds or defines:

[0105] a chamber 36 for receiving the aerosol generating article 1000;

[0106] The tubular heater 31 at least partially surrounds or defines the chamber 36; when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber 36, the heater 31 surrounds the aerosol generating article 1000 from the outside and heats it, so that the aerosol generating article 1000 releases a variety of volatile compounds, and these volatile compounds are formed only by heating treatment; when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber 36, the heater 31 at least partially surrounds or encloses the aerosol generating article 1000 and heats it from the periphery of the aerosol generating article 1000.

[0107] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, in this embodiment, the heater 31 includes:

[0108] A first end 311 and a second end 312 facing each other in the longitudinal direction;

[0109] A tubular base 313 extends from a first end 311 to a second end 312 , wherein the first end 311 is arranged toward or close to the proximal end 110 ;

[0110] At least one heating element 314 is formed or arranged on the side wall of the substrate 313; in some embodiments, the at least one heating element 314 is formed on the outer surface of the substrate 313 by deposition, spraying, printing or wrapping. Or in some other embodiments, the at least one heating element 314 is formed on the inner surface of the substrate 313.

[0111] In some embodiments, the circumferential length or perimeter of the substrate 313 is greater than the length of the substrate 313 along the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, the longitudinal length of the substrate 313 does not exceed 15 mm or is less than 15 mm. In some embodiments, the substrate 313 may have a longitudinal length of about 10 mm to 15 mm and an inner diameter of about 5.8 mm to 10 mm. In some specific embodiments, the substrate 313 may have a longitudinal length of 12 mm; the substrate 313 may have an inner diameter of 7.6 mm.

[0112] In some embodiments, at least one heating element 314 is closed in the circumferential direction of the heater 31; at least one heating element 314 is a closed ring. In some embodiments, at least one heating element 314 has a length of 8 to 12 mm.

[0113] In some embodiments, at least one heating element 314 is a coating or thin layer formed on the substrate 313 by deposition, spraying, printing, etc. Or in some other embodiments, at least one heating element 314 is a thin film wrapped or bonded to the substrate 313. Or in some other optional embodiments, at least one heating element 314 of resistance can also be a heating film of resistance wound or bonded to the substrate 313.

[0114] In some embodiments, the thickness of the at least one heating element 314 in the form of a resistive coating can be preferably controlled to be 10 μm to 300 μm. In some embodiments, the at least one heating element 314 can be formed on the surface of the tubular substrate 313 by spraying it on the outer surface of the tubular substrate 313 through atmospheric plasma spraying and then curing it.

[0115] In some embodiments, at least one heating element 314 is a resistive heating element; by directing an electric current through the at least one heating element 314, the at least one heating element 314 can be heated by resistive Joule heat, thereby heating the aerosol generating article 1000. Also, in some embodiments, the at least one heating element 314 used for heating by generating resistive Joule heat may include graphite or a resistive metal or alloy; wherein the metal or alloy is, for example, a nickel-chromium alloy, a nickel-iron alloy, platinum, tungsten, silver, aluminum, titanium, molybdenum, manganese, or an alloy containing them. In some embodiments, the at least one heating element 314 providing resistive heating may be an annular coating or thin layer formed on the outer surface of the substrate 313. In some other variant embodiments, the at least one heating element 314 providing resistive heating may be a resistive track extending in a circuitous manner or in the form of a mesh formed on the outer surface of the substrate 313.

[0116] When the at least one heating element 314 is applied to the above heating by resistive heating, the material of the substrate 313 is a material with good thermal conductivity, such as ceramic, glass, surface insulating metal or alloy such as anodized aluminum, aluminum alloy, copper alloy, stainless steel, etc. And in some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the substrate 313 is at least 10W / mk, preferably or at least 25W / mk; or in some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the substrate 313 is greater than 100W / mk or higher. In some embodiments, the substrate 313 includes a metal suitable for the above high thermal conductivity such as aluminum, copper, titanium, or an alloy containing at least one of them. In some embodiments, the wall thickness of the substrate 313 is between 0.1 and 0.5 mm; more specifically, for example, the wall thickness of the substrate 313 is between 0.15 and 0.2 mm.

[0117] In some other embodiments, at least one heating element 314 is an infrared emitting layer, such as an electrically induced infrared emitting layer; by providing a DC voltage to at least one heating element 314, the at least one heating element 314 can be driven by the voltage to radiate infrared rays, thereby heating the aerosol generating article 1000. When the at least one heating element 314 used for heating by radiating infrared rays is applied, the material of the substrate 313 is a material that is infrared-transmissive, such as quartz, glass, ceramic, etc. In some embodiments, at least one heating element 314 for radiating infrared rays can be a coating made of ceramic materials such as zirconium, Fe-Mn-Cu system, tungsten system, or transition metals and their oxide materials. For example, in some embodiments, at least one heating element 314 for radiating infrared rays is composed of oxides of at least one metal element such as Mg, Al, Ti, Zr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Cr, Zn, etc., and these metal oxides can radiate infrared rays with heating effect when heated to an appropriate heating temperature.

[0118] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, at least one heating element 314 is arranged to extend between the first end 311 and the second end 312. At least one heating element 314 is spaced apart from the first end 311 and the second end 312. Furthermore, the outer surface of the substrate 313 is further defined as follows:

[0119] a first spacing region 317 , located between the first end 311 and the at least one heating element 314 ;

[0120] The second spacing region 318 is located between the at least one heating element 314 and the second end 312 .

[0121] In some embodiments, the first spaced regions 317 and / or the second spaced regions 318 have substantially the same size along the longitudinal direction of the substrate 313. For example, in some optional embodiments, the first spaced regions 317 and / or the second spaced regions 318 have a length of about 0.2 to 3 mm; more specifically, for example, the first spaced regions 317 and / or the second spaced regions 318 have a length of about 0.5 to 1.5 mm.

[0122] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the heater 31 also includes:

[0123] The first electrode element 315 and the second electrode element 316 are arranged at intervals on at least one heating element 314 to guide current on at least one heating element 314. Specifically, the first electrode element 315 and the second electrode element 316 are combined with at least one heating element 314 at intervals in the circumferential direction, thereby guiding current in the circumferential direction of at least one heating element 314. In some embodiments, the first electrode element 315 and / or the second electrode element 316 are coatings formed by low-resistivity electrode materials. Or in some other variant embodiments, the first electrode element 315 and / or the second electrode element 316 can also be replaced by thinner sheet electrodes, which are formed on the heater 31 by welding or close contact. In some optional embodiments, the material of the first electrode element 315 and / or the second electrode element 316 is low-resistivity gold, silver, copper or their alloys.

[0124] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the first electrode element 315 and the second electrode element 316 extend substantially longitudinally and are coupled to at least one heating element 314. The first electrode element 315 and the second electrode element 316 are opposite to each other in the radial direction of the heater 31.

[0125] In use, the first electrode element 315 and the second electrode element 316 are respectively connected to the circuit board 23 by welding conductive leads, so as to connect the at least one heating element 314 to the circuit. In use, the circumferentially spaced first electrode element 315 and the second electrode element 316 are used to guide the current in the circumferential direction of the at least one heating element 314.

[0126] Alternatively, in some further variations, the heater 31 may further include at least two or more heating elements 314; at least two or more heating elements 314 are arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the heater 31, so as to heat different parts of the aerosol generating article 1000 respectively, such as so-called segmented heating.

[0127] In an embodiment, the chamber 36 may have an open end and a terminal end opposite to each other. The open end of the chamber 36 may be described as an end for the aerosol generating article 1000 to enter and be received in the chamber 36; the terminal end may be described as an end for the aerosol generating article 1000 to abut against. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the open end is close to the opening 111 or the proximal end 110. In some specific embodiments, the open end may be formed or defined by the first end 311 of the heater 31. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the open end of the chamber 36 is defined by the opening 111.

[0128] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the heating mechanism 30 also includes:

[0129] A rigid closing element 32 is coupled to the second end 312 of the heater 31; the closing element 32 is arranged to be a tubular shape surrounding or defining a portion of the chamber 36, and defining the longitudinal length of the chamber 36. The closing element 32 has a tubular side wall, and the side wall surrounds or defines the chamber 36; and a joint portion 321 is formed by at least a portion of the side wall of the closing element 32, and is longitudinally engaged with the heater 31. Specifically, the joint portion 321 of the closing element 32 is engaged with the second end 312 of the heater 31 to connect them. And, the closing element 32 also has an end wall 322 facing away from the heater 31; and the end of the chamber 36 is defined or closed by the end wall 322.

[0130] The joint portion 321 of the closing element 32 protrudes radially outward compared to other parts of the side wall; the joint portion 321 defines abutting step 326; after assembly, the second end 312 of the heater 31 is inserted into the joint portion 321 of the closing element 32 and abuts against the abutting step 326. The joint portion 321 surrounds or encircles the heater 31 from the outside, thereby engaging with the heater 31 and being tightly connected.

[0131] In the embodiment, the sealing element 32 and the heater 31 are hermetically sealed. In some optional embodiments, the gap between the sealing element 32 and the heater 31 is sealed by adhesive; adhesive such as glass adhesive (sol containing sodium silicate or aluminum silicate) or ceramic adhesive or epoxy resin adhesive is filled and then cured to seal. Or in some other optional embodiments, the sealing element 32 and the heater 31 are welded by laser or sintering, and their joints are connected to form a seal.

[0132] Among them, fusion (also known as welding) is a term in the field of mechanical manufacturing or mechanical processing. It is a process or technology that uses heating, high temperature or high pressure to melt the joints of components that are joined to each other and then fuse and solidify to form a connection.

[0133] Specifically, in the embodiment, when the heater 31 is inserted into the joint portion 321 of the closing element 32, the joint portion 321 of the closing element 32 surrounds and is combined with the second spacing area 318; and a seal is formed between the joint portion 321 and the second spacing area 318 by gluing or welding, etc., to prevent air from entering the chamber 36 from there between. In some embodiments, the length of the joint portion 321 is substantially the same as the length of the second spacing area 318. Then, when the heater 31 is inserted into the joint portion 321 of the closing element 32, the joint portion 321 substantially avoids at least one heating element 314.

[0134] In some embodiments, the length of the closure element 32 is at least 3 mm. Alternatively, in a more preferred embodiment, the length of the closure element 32 is at least 5 mm. The aerosol-generating article 1000 at least partially extends into the closure element 32. In some embodiments, the length of the closure element 32 is greater than 1 / 5 of the length of the heater 31; in some embodiments, the length of the closure element 32 is less than 1 / 2 of the length of the heater 31.

[0135] exist Figures 8 to 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the end wall 322 of the closing element 32 is provided with a notch 324. In some embodiments, the bracket 22 or the elastic body 40 at least partially extends into the notch 324, so as to connect and retain the closing element 32.

[0136] exist Figures 8 to 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the closure element 32 is further provided with an abutment 325 extending from the end wall 322 toward the chamber 36 ; when the aerosol generating article 1000 is extended or inserted into the closure element 32 , the aerosol generating article 1000 abuts against the abutment 325 and stops.

[0137] exist Figures 8 to 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the extension length or protrusion height of the abutment portion 325 is less than the length of the side wall of the closure element 32; thus, after assembly, the abutment portion 325 is only located within the closure element 32 and does not extend into the heater 31. For example, in some embodiments, the extension length or protrusion height of the abutment portion 325 is approximately 2 mm. Furthermore, an annular space 327 is defined in the closure element 32 around the abutment portion 325. In some embodiments, the annular space 327 is used to receive and retain debris or aerosol condensate that falls out of the aerosol generating article 1000.

[0138] Or in some other modified embodiments, the closing element 32 is made of metal or alloy, etc. For example, the closing element 32 is made of stainless steel.

[0139] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the heating mechanism 30 also includes:

[0140] The annular flange 33 is combined or mounted on the first end 311 of the heater 31. After assembly, the flange 33 is at least partially arranged between the clamping element 11 and the heater 31; thus, the flange 33 is used to provide a connection between the clamping element 11 and the first end 311 of the heater 31.

[0141] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, a first flange 331 extending radially inward is arranged in the flange 33; and a second flange 332 extending radially outward is also arranged on the flange 33. The first flange 331 separates or defines the flange 33 from a first plug-in port 334 and a second plug-in port 333 located on both sides of the first flange 331; after assembly, the clamping element 11 is inserted into the first plug-in port 334 and abuts against the first flange 331; the first end 311 of the heater 31 is inserted into the second plug-in port 333 and abuts against the first flange 331. In an embodiment, the flange 33 surrounds and is combined with the first spacing area 317 of the heater 31; and a seal is formed between the flange 33 and the first spacing area 317 by gluing or welding. Then, when the flange 33 is combined with the first end 311 of the heater 31, the flange 33 basically avoids at least one heating element 314.

[0142] according to Figures 8 to 12 As shown, the flange 33 and / or the closing element 32 are in contact with and combined with the heater 31, and they are heat conductive and sealed with the heater 31. And in the embodiment, there is no flexible sealing element such as a silicone seal or silicone sealing element between the flange 33 and / or the closing element 32 and the heater 31.

[0143] After assembly, the aerosol generating device 100 further comprises:

[0144] The flexible sealing element 50 is made of a flexible material such as silicone or thermoplastic elastomer; the sealing element 50 surrounds and is bonded to the flange 33 of the heating mechanism 30; and the sealing element 50 abuts against the second ridge 332. After assembly, the sealing element 50 is at least partially inserted into the clamping element 11 and is used to provide a seal between the clamping element 11 and the flange 33.

[0145] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the flange 33 is less than 5 W / mk, so that the flange 33 provides thermal insulation between the heater 31 and the sealing element 50, thereby preventing the heat of the heater 31 from being transferred to the sealing element 50. More preferably, the material of the flange 33 is made of quartz, glass, ceramic or other materials; then the thermal conductivity of the flange 33 is less than 2 W / mk. More specifically, for example, the flange 33 is made of quartz or glass with a thermal conductivity of 1 W / mk.

[0146] After assembly, the chamber 36 is defined by the heater 31 and the closing element 32, and the inner surface of the chamber 36 is airtightly sealed. Furthermore, the aerosol generating article 1000 is inserted or received into the chamber 36 defined by the heater 31 and the closing element 32 through the opening 111 defined by the clamping element 11 for heating. Furthermore, the heater 31 and the clamping element 11 are also airtightly sealed; thus, in use, only the air gaps 113 between the adjacent retaining ribs 112 of the clamping element 11 can serve as an inlet for external air to enter the chamber 36. Furthermore, when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber 36, a plurality of air gaps 113 surround the aerosol generating article 1000 in the circumferential direction.

[0147] In an embodiment, the distance between the holding rib 112 of the clamping element 11 and the central axis of the chamber 36 is smaller than the distance between the inner surface of the heater 31 / sealing element 32 and the central axis of the chamber 36; thus, when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber 36, there is a gap between the inner surface of the heater 31 / sealing element 32 and the aerosol generating article 1000, and the aerosol generating article 1000 is clamped by the holding rib 112 to prevent it from loosening. Specifically, in some embodiments, the distance between the holding rib 112 of the clamping element 11 and the central axis of the chamber 36 is 0.3 to 2.5 mm smaller than the distance between the inner surface of the heater 31 / sealing element 32 and the central axis of the chamber 36.

[0148] In use according to Fig.12 As shown by the middle arrow R2, external air enters through the air gap 113 between the retaining ribs 112, and extends to the gap 327 between the heater 31 and the aerosol generating article 1000 toward the distal end 120, and then enters the aerosol generating article 1000 through the gap 327 and carries the aerosol to the user. The end of the chamber 36 facing away from the outlet 111 is defined and closed by the closing element 32.

[0149] according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes:

[0150] The elastomer 40 is made of a flexible silicone or thermoplastic elastomer or synthetic rubber such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber). The elastomer 40 is arranged to be located in the support wall 222 of the first support portion 221 and is used for the heating mechanism 30 to abut against. After assembly, the elastomer 40 is used to provide elasticity between the heating mechanism 30 and the bracket 22, so that the heating mechanism 30 and the bracket 22 are elastically engaged. The heating mechanism 30 is elastically retained between the bracket 22 and the clamping element 11. After assembly, the elastomer 40 is at least partially squeezed or compressed by the closing element 32 and the bracket 22.

[0151] After assembly, the heating mechanism 30 is longitudinally held between the clamping element 11 and the bracket 22. Also, the heating mechanism 30 is elastically held between the clamping element 11 and the bracket 22; more specifically, the heating mechanism 30 is elastically held between the elastic body 40 and the flexible sealing element 50. It is advantageous to improve the shock absorption of the heating mechanism 30.

[0152] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the closing element 32 is less than 5 W / mk, so as to prevent or reduce the heat of the heater 31 from being transferred to the elastic body 40 through the closing element 32 as much as possible. More preferably, the material of the closing element 32 is made of quartz, glass, ceramic or other materials; then the thermal conductivity of the closing element 32 is less than 2 W / mk. More specifically, for example, the closing element 32 is made of quartz or glass with a thermal conductivity of 1 W / mk.

[0153] Fig.13 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of an aerosol generating article 1000a being received and heated in an aerosol generating device 100 is shown; in this embodiment, the aerosol generating article 1000a has a plurality of elements arranged coaxially in a direction from an upstream end to a downstream end. As used herein, the terms 'upstream' and 'downstream' are used to describe the relative positions of elements, or portions of elements, of the aerosol generating article 1000a with respect to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol generating article 1000a during its use. Downstream may be a direction close to the user drawing, and upstream is a direction away from the user accordingly; and upstream is a direction in which external air enters the aerosol generating article 1000a, and downstream is a direction in which an air flow containing an aerosol is output from the aerosol generating article 1000a. In use, the aerosol generated by heating in the aerosol generating article 1000a passes through the downstream end and is delivered to the user after leaving the aerosol generating article from the downstream end. In use, the user may draw on the downstream end to inhale the aerosol.

[0154] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating article 1000a comprises: a plug 1140a, an aerosol generating substrate 1130a, a cooling element 1120a and a filter element 1110a arranged coaxially from an upstream end to a downstream end.

[0155] In an embodiment, the plug 1140a is airflow-permeable, thereby enabling air to pass through the plug 1140a during inhalation and be delivered to the downstream aerosol-generating substrate 1130a; in some embodiments, the plug 1140a may include a porous body; the term "porous" is intended to cover materials that are porous in nature as well as substantially non-porous materials that are made porous or permeable by providing a plurality of holes.

[0156] In an embodiment, an aerosol generating substrate 1130a is used to describe a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds when heated, which can form an aerosol. The aerosol described herein can be visible or invisible, and can include vapor (e.g., fine particles of a substance, which are in a gaseous state, which are typically liquid or solid at room temperature) and droplets of gas and condensed vapor. The aerosol generating substrate 1130a can include, for example, one or more of the following: powder, particles, pellets, fragments, strands, strips or flakes, which contain one or more of the following: dried flowers or fragrant leaves, grass leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco main veins, expanded tobacco and homogenized tobacco. In an optional embodiment, the aerosol generating substrate 1130a includes a gathered flake of a wrinkled homogenized tobacco material; the gathered flake of a wrinkled homogenized tobacco material includes glycerol as an aerosol forming agent.

[0157] In an embodiment, the cooling element 1120a is arranged immediately downstream of the aerosol generating substrate 1130a and is adjacent to the aerosol generating substrate 1130a. In use, the cooling element 1120a is used to provide support for the aerosol generating substrate 1130a downstream on the one hand, and on the other hand, the volatile substances released by the aerosol generating substrate 1130a after being heated pass along the cooling element 1120a toward the downstream of the aerosol generating article 1000a, and the volatile substances can be cooled in the cooling element 1120a to form an aerosol inhaled by the user. Fig.13 In the optional embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the cooling element 1120a is a hollow tube, and the hollow of the tube forms or defines a cooling cavity for cooling the aerosol. The cooling element 1120a can cool the temperature of the aerosol stream drawn through the cooling element 1120a by means of heat transfer. The components of the aerosol will interact with the space within the cooling element 1120a and lose heat energy. The cooling element 1120a may include ceramics, metals, or organic polymer plastics, etc.

[0158] In embodiments, the filter element 1110a is disposed immediately downstream of the cooling element 1120a and defines the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article 1000a for filtering the aerosol before delivery to a user. In some embodiments, the filter element 1110a comprises a conventional cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow filter of low filtration efficiency.

[0159] according to Fig.13As shown in the figure, when the aerosol-generating article 1000a is received in the aerosol-generating device 100, the plug 1140a is contained or located in the closure element 32 of the heating mechanism 30; and the plug 1140a is away from the heater 31. And, the aerosol-generating substrate 1130a is contained and located in the heater 31. And, the cooling element 1120a is basically contained in the flange 33. In this embodiment, the space provided by the closure element 32 to accommodate the plug 1140a is advantageous to avoid the plug 1140a from being heated in the heater 31a.

[0160] It should be noted that the preferred embodiments of the present application are given in the specification and drawings of the present application, but are not limited to the embodiments described in the specification. Furthermore, it is possible for a person of ordinary skill in the art to make improvements or changes based on the above description, and all such improvements and changes should fall within the scope of protection of the claims attached to the present application.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, configured to heat an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol; characterized in that: include: a chamber having an open end and a terminal end facing each other in a longitudinal direction; An aerosol-generating article can be received into or removed from the chamber through the open end; a heater at least partially surrounding or defining the chamber for heating an aerosol-generating article received in the chamber; A rigid closure element defines the longitudinal length of the chamber and closes or defines the ends of the chamber; the closure element is longitudinally engaged with the heater; and the closure element and the heater are airtightly sealed to prevent air from entering the chamber from therebetween.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that The closing element and the heater are connected and hermetically sealed by gluing or welding.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, characterized in that The adhesive includes glass adhesive.

4. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: There is no silicone sealing element between the heater and the closure element.

5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The heater is at least partially inserted into the closure element.

6. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The closure element comprises: a substantially tubular side wall, and an end wall perpendicular to the side wall; The side wall is connected to the heater; the end wall closes and defines the end of the chamber.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, characterized in that An abutment portion extending toward the chamber is arranged on the end wall, and the abutment portion is used for the aerosol generating product received in the chamber to abut against to form a stop; when the aerosol generating product abuts against the abutment portion, a gap is formed or maintained between the aerosol generating product and the end wall, and the gap is configured to receive and retain debris or aerosol condensate falling out of the aerosol generating product.

8. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes: Proximal and distal ends facing away from each other; a substantially annular gripping element proximate to or located at the proximal end and surrounding or defining the opening; An aerosol-generating article can be received into or removed from the chamber through the opening; a support disposed at least partially between the closure element and the distal end and at least partially supporting the closure element and the heater; The heater and closure element are longitudinally retained between the clamping element and the bracket.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, characterized in that The heater and the closing element are resiliently held between the clamping element and the bracket.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, characterized in that Also includes: An elastic body is located between the closure element and the support and is at least partially squeezed or compressed by them.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, characterized in that The thermal conductivity of the sealing element is less than 5 W / mk to prevent the heat of the heater from being transferred to the elastomer.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, characterized in that The closing element is made of quartz, glass or ceramic.

13. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes: Proximal and distal ends facing away from each other; a substantially annular clamping element proximate to or disposed at the proximal end and surrounding or defining the opening; An aerosol-generating article can be received into or removed from the chamber through the opening; A rigid flange is at least partially located between the clamping element and the heater and is configured to mechanically couple the clamping element and the heater.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, characterized in that The flange and the heater are sealed airtight by gluing or welding; And / or, there is no silicone sealing element between the flange and the heater.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, characterized in that A flexible sealing element is arranged between the flange and the clamping element for providing an airtight seal therebetween; The thermal conductivity of the flange is less than 5 W / mk, so as to prevent or reduce the heat of the heater from being transferred to the sealing element through the flange.

16. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, characterized in that The clamping element is arranged with a plurality of retaining ribs around the opening; the plurality of retaining ribs are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction; when the aerosol generating product is received in the chamber from the opening, the plurality of retaining ribs radially abut against the aerosol generating product, thereby clamping or retaining the aerosol generating product between the plurality of retaining ribs.

17. The aerosol generating device according to claim 16, characterized in that The clamping element also defines a plurality of air gaps between adjacent retaining ribs; when the aerosol-generating article is received in the chamber from the opening, the air gaps are configured to provide an inlet for external air to enter the chamber; and the aerosol-generating device is configured to allow external air to enter the chamber only from the air gaps.

18. An aerosol generating device, configured to heat an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol; characterized in that: include: Proximal and distal ends facing away from each other; a substantially annular gripping element proximate to or located at the proximal end and surrounding or defining the opening; a chamber for receiving the aerosol generating article; An aerosol-generating article can be received into or removed from the chamber through the opening; a heater at least partially surrounding or defining the chamber for heating an aerosol-generating article received in the chamber; A rigid flange is at least partially located between the clamping element and the heater and is configured to mechanically couple the clamping element and the heater.

19. The aerosol generating device according to claim 18, characterized in that A flexible sealing element is arranged between the flange and the clamping element for providing an airtight seal therebetween; The thermal conductivity of the flange is less than 5 W / mk, so as to prevent or reduce the heat of the heater from being transferred to the sealing element through the flange.

20. A heating mechanism for an aerosol generating device, characterized in that: include: A substantially tubular body having a first end and a second end opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction; a heating element formed on or bonded to the substrate; a rigid closure element proximate the second end of the substrate and longitudinally engaged with the substrate; the closure element being hermetically sealed with the substrate; The closing element has an end wall facing away from the base, and the hollow of the base and / or the closing element is closed by the end wall, so that external air can only enter the base and / or the closing element from the first end.

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