Electronic atomization device

Abstract

The utility model provides an electronic atomization device. The electronic atomization device comprises a liquid storage cavity used for storing a liquid matrix; an electrically conductive first tubular element extending at least partially within the reservoir cavity; the atomizing assembly is used for receiving the liquid matrix from the liquid storage cavity and atomizing the liquid matrix to generate aerosol; an electrically conductive second tubular element at least partially disposed around the first tubular element within the reservoir chamber; the second tubular element and the first tubular element are arranged at intervals, so that a capacitor is formed between the second tubular element and the first tubular element; and the circuit is configured to determine the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity based on the electrical quantity of the detection capacitor. According to the electronic atomization device, the capacitor with at least the first tubular element containing the atomization assembly as one electrode is arranged in the electronic atomization device, and the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity is determined by detecting the electrical quantity of the capacitor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of electronic atomization, and particularly to an electronic atomization device. Background Art

[0002] During the use of tobacco products (such as cigarettes, cigars, etc.), tobacco is burned to produce tobacco smoke. People have tried to replace these tobacco-burning products by manufacturing products that release compounds without combustion.

[0003] Examples of such products are heating devices that release compounds by heating rather than burning materials. For example, the material can be tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. As another example, there are prior art aerosol-providing articles, such as so-called electronic atomization devices, which typically include a liquid storage chamber for storing a liquid that is heated to vaporize to produce an inhalable aerosol; the liquid can contain nicotine and / or flavoring agents and / or aerosol-forming substances (such as glycerin). Known electronic atomization devices determine the remaining amount of the liquid by arranging two opposing electrodes in the liquid storage chamber to form a capacitor. Summary of the Utility Model

[0004] An embodiment of this application provides an electronic atomization device, including:

[0005] A liquid storage chamber for storing a liquid matrix;

[0006] A conductive first tubular element extending at least partially within the liquid storage chamber;

[0007] An atomization assembly for receiving the liquid matrix from the liquid storage chamber and atomizing it to generate an aerosol;

[0008] A conductive second tubular element arranged at least partially around the first tubular element within the liquid storage chamber; the second tubular element is arranged spaced apart from the first tubular element to form a capacitor between the second tubular element and the first tubular element;

[0009] A circuit configured to determine the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage chamber based on detecting an electrical quantity of the capacitor.

[0010] In some embodiments, the electrical quantity includes the capacitance value of the capacitor.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first tubular element and / or the second tubular element includes a metal or alloy, or is made of a metal or alloy.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first tubular element and the second tubular element are arranged substantially coaxially.

[0013] In some embodiments, the spacing distance between the first tubular element and the second tubular element is between 1 mm and 6 mm.

[0014] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0015] A proximal end and a distal end facing away from each other in the longitudinal direction; the liquid storage cavity includes a first side close to the proximal end and a second side close to the distal end;

[0016] The first tubular element and the second tubular element are arranged close to or located on the second side of the liquid storage cavity.

[0017] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0018] A liquid retaining element, at least partially located between the first tubular element and the second tubular element, for absorbing and retaining at least part of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity.

[0019] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0020] A housing;

[0021] The second tubular element is arranged to be combined with or retained by the housing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the length of the first tubular element and / or the second tubular element is greater than 6 mm.

[0023] In some embodiments, the liquid storage cavity includes a first space and a second space, the second space is defined between the first tubular element and the second tubular element, and the liquid retaining element fills at least a part of the second space.

[0024] In some embodiments, the second space is adjacent to the atomization assembly, and the liquid retaining element does not extend into the first space.

[0025] In some embodiments, the atomization assembly includes a heating element, and the first tubular element or the second tubular element is configured as the heating element.

[0026] In some embodiments, the circuit is further configured to determine the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity by comparing the electrical quantity of the capacitor with a preset threshold.

[0027] In some embodiments, the circuit is further configured to determine the shortage or depletion of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity according to the electrical quantity of the capacitor being lower than the minimum threshold, and prevent power supply to the atomization assembly according to the shortage or depletion of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity.

[0028] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0029] An inclination sensor for sensing the orientation of the liquid storage cavity to determine the inclination angle of the electronic atomization device and / or the liquid storage cavity;

[0030] The circuit is configured to detect the electrical quantity of the capacitor to determine the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity when the inclination angle of the electronic atomization device and / or the liquid storage cavity is less than a predetermined angle.

[0031] In some embodiments, the inclination sensor includes a gyroscope or an acceleration sensor.

[0032] Another embodiment of the present application further provides an electronic atomization device, including:

[0033] A liquid storage cavity for storing a liquid matrix;

[0034] An atomization assembly for receiving the liquid matrix from the liquid storage cavity and atomizing it to generate an aerosol;

[0035] A first conductive element and a second conductive element arranged substantially parallel or coaxially, and the second conductive element is arranged at intervals from the first conductive element to form a capacitor between the second conductive element and the first conductive element;

[0036] The liquid storage cavity includes a first space and a second space, and the second space is defined between the first conductive element and the second conductive element and is adjacent to the atomization assembly;

[0037] A liquid holding element fills at least a part of the second space and does not extend into the first space;

[0038] A circuit configured to determine the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity based on detecting the electrical quantity of the capacitor.

[0039] Another embodiment of the present application further provides an electronic atomization device, including:

[0040] A liquid storage cavity for storing a liquid matrix;

[0041] A tubular element;

[0042] A heating element located inside the tubular element and configured to be in a cylindrical shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the tubular element for heating the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol;

[0043] A liquid guiding element located between the tubular element and the heating element for holding part of the liquid matrix and conducting the liquid matrix to the heating element;

[0044] The tubular element is a conductor to form a capacitor between the tubular element and the heating element;

[0045] A circuit configured to determine the amount of liquid matrix in the liquid guiding element based on detecting an electrical quantity of the capacitor.

[0046] Another embodiment of the present application further provides a control method for an electronic atomization device, where the electronic atomization device includes:

[0047] A liquid storage cavity for storing a liquid matrix;

[0048] A first conductive tubular element at least partially extending within the liquid storage cavity;

[0049] An atomization assembly disposed within the first tubular element and configured to receive the liquid matrix from the liquid storage cavity and atomize it to generate an aerosol;

[0050] A second conductive tubular element at least partially disposed around the first tubular element within the liquid storage cavity; the second tubular element is disposed at an interval from the first tubular element to form a capacitor between the second tubular element and the first tubular element;

[0051] The control method includes:

[0052] Determining the amount of liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity based on detecting an electrical quantity of the capacitor;

[0053] Controlling the power supplied to the atomization assembly according to the amount of liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity.

[0054] For example, in some embodiments, the amount of liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity is determined by comparing the electrical quantity of the capacitor with a preset threshold.

[0055] In some embodiments, it is determined that the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity is insufficient or depleted according to the electrical quantity of the capacitor being lower than the minimum threshold, and power supply to the atomization assembly is blocked according to the insufficiency or depletion of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity.

[0056] In the above electronic atomization device, a capacitor is constructed within the electronic atomization device with at least the first tubular element accommodating the atomization assembly as one of the electrodes, and the amount of liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity is determined by detecting the electrical quantity of the capacitor. Description of the Drawings

[0057] One or more embodiments are exemplarily illustrated by pictures in the corresponding drawings. These exemplary illustrations do not limit the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are represented as similar elements, unless otherwise stated, and the drawings in the figures do not constitute a proportional limitation.

[0058] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an electronic atomization device provided by an embodiment;

[0059] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of an atomizer in

[0060] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a circuit arranged on a circuit board in

[0061] Figure 4 is Figure 1 a schematic structural diagram of another embodiment of an atomizer in

[0062] Figure 5 is Figure 4 a schematic structural diagram of another perspective of a heating element in

[0063] Figure 6 a schematic structural diagram of a heating element of another embodiment;

[0064] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of controlling output power by detecting the electrical quantity of a capacitor in an embodiment;

[0065] Figure 8 is a schematic structural diagram of an atomizer of another embodiment. Specific Embodiments

[0066] For ease of understanding of this application, the following provides a more detailed description of this application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0067] An embodiment of this application proposes an electronic atomization device, which can be seen in Figure 1 as shown, including an atomizer 100 that stores a liquid matrix and atomizes it to generate an aerosol, and a power supply mechanism 200 that powers the atomizer 100. In Figure 1 the embodiment shown, the atomizer 100 and the power supply mechanism 200 of the electronic atomization device are detachable relative to each other; an electronic atomization device having such an atomizer 100 and a power supply mechanism 200 that are detachable relative to each other, such as a so-called "cartridge-replaceable" electronic atomization device. Or in some other variant embodiments, the atomizer 100 and the power supply mechanism 200 of the electronic atomization device are tightly wrapped and fixed by the housing components of the electronic atomization device, so that the atomizer 100 and the power supply mechanism 200 cannot be detached from inside the housing components relative to each other. An electronic atomization device having such an atomizer 100 and a power supply mechanism 200 that are non-detachable relative to each other, such as a so-called "integrated or disposable" electronic atomization device.

[0068] In an alternative embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the power supply mechanism 200 includes a receiving cavity 270 provided at one end along the length direction for receiving and accommodating at least a part of the atomizer 100, and electrical contacts 230 at least partially exposed on the surface of the receiving cavity 270 for powering the atomizer 100 when at least a part of the atomizer 100 is received and accommodated within the power supply mechanism 200.

[0069] A seal 260 is provided within the power supply mechanism 200, and at least a part of the internal space of the power supply mechanism 200 is separated by this seal 260 to form the above-mentioned receiving cavity 270. In Figure 1 In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the seal 260 is configured to extend along the cross-sectional direction of the power supply mechanism 200 and is preferably made of a flexible material, thereby preventing the liquid matrix seeping from the atomizer 100 into the receiving cavity 270 from flowing towards components such as the circuit board 220 and the airflow sensor 250 inside the power supply mechanism 200.

[0070] In Figure 1 In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the power supply mechanism 200 further includes a power cell 210 for power supply at the other end along the length direction away from the receiving cavity 270; and a circuit board 220 disposed between the power cell 210 and the accommodating cavity, and circuits are arranged or integrated on the circuit board 220, so that the circuit board 220 can operably conduct current between the power cell 210 and the electrical contacts 230.

[0071] During use, the power supply mechanism 200 includes an airflow sensor 250 for sensing the suction airflow generated when the atomizer 100 is suctioned, and then the circuit board 220 controls the power cell 210 to output current to the atomizer 100 according to the detection signal of the airflow sensor 250.

[0072] In Figure 1 In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the power supply mechanism 200 is provided with a charging interface 240 at the other end away from the receiving cavity 270 for charging the power cell 210.

[0073] Figure 2 The schematic diagram of an atomizer of an embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the atomizer 100 includes:

[0074] A housing 10 that defines the outer surface of the atomizer 100 and is made of a rigid material such as ceramic or polymer plastic; In Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 10 is generally cylindrical; the housing 10 has a proximal end 110 and a distal end 120 that are opposite in the longitudinal direction; wherein, according to the requirements of normal use, the proximal end 110 is configured to be the end for the user to inhale the aerosol, and an air outlet 113 for the user to suck is provided at the proximal end 110; while the distal end 120 is the end for combining with the power mechanism 200, and the distal end 120 of the housing 10 is open, and the open structure is used to install various necessary functional components inside the housing 10.

[0075] According to Figure 2 As shown, a liquid storage cavity 112 for storing the liquid matrix is provided inside the housing 10, and an atomization assembly for sucking the liquid matrix from the liquid storage cavity 112 and heating and atomizing the liquid matrix. Among them, an aerosol output pipe 111 arranged longitudinally is provided inside the housing 10, and the space between the outer surface of the aerosol output pipe 111 and the inner surface of the housing 10 forms a part of the liquid storage cavity 112 for storing the liquid matrix; the end of the aerosol output pipe 111 located at the proximal end 110 is communicated with the air outlet 113, so as to transmit the generated aerosol to the air outlet 113 for inhalation. According to Figure 2 As shown in, the aerosol output pipe 111 and the housing 10 are integrally molded with a moldable material, and then the formed liquid storage cavity 112 is closed on the side facing the proximal end 110 and open or open on the side facing the distal end 120.

[0076] See Figure 2 As shown, the atomizer 100 is further provided with:

[0077] A first tubular element 14 extending longitudinally along the atomizer 100; the first tubular element 14 is at least partially arranged to extend inside the liquid storage cavity 112; in Figure 2 As shown in, the first tubular element 14 is at least partially located between the aerosol output pipe 111 and the distal end 120. Along the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100, the first tubular element 14 is arranged coaxially with the aerosol output pipe 111; and the first tubular element 14 is in airflow connection with the aerosol output pipe 111.

[0078] In Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the first tubular element 14 is an independent component, preferably made of a relatively thin rigid material; the first tubular element 14 is a conductor, for example, the first tubular element 14 is made of stainless steel or aluminum alloy, etc. In Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end of the first tubular element 14 is connected to the aerosol output tube 111 after assembly. Specifically, a flexible sealing element 15 is disposed between the first tubular element 14 and the aerosol output tube 111, thereby providing a seal therebetween. In some embodiments, the flexible sealing element 15 is made of flexible silicone, thermoplastic elastomer, etc. Or in some other variant embodiments, the rigid first tubular element 14 is at least partially wrapped around and joined to the aerosol output tube 111 by riveting or the like, and a seal is formed therebetween by riveting or interference fit, etc.; and there is no flexible sealing element between the rigid first tubular element 14 and the aerosol output tube 111.

[0079] In Figure 2 the illustrated embodiment, a liquid storage cavity 112 for storing the liquid matrix is defined and formed between the outer surface of the aerosol output tube 111, the outer surface of the first tubular element 14, and the inner surface of the housing 10 after assembly.

[0080] In Figure 2 the illustrated embodiment, the tubular element 11 contains and is assembled with an atomization assembly for receiving the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112 and atomizing it to generate an aerosol. And according to Figure 2 what is shown, a plurality of perforations 141 are arranged on the tube wall of the first tubular element 14; in some embodiments, the plurality of perforations 141 are arranged at intervals along the circumferential direction of the tubular element 11; so that in use, the atomization assembly is in fluid communication with the liquid storage cavity 112 through the perforations 141 to receive the liquid matrix.

[0081] According to Figure 2 what is shown, the atomization assembly is received and assembled in the first tubular element 14; the atomization assembly includes: a liquid guiding element 30 and a heating element 40 joined to the liquid guiding element 30. Among them, the liquid guiding element 30 is for sucking or receiving the liquid matrix from the liquid storage cavity 112. The heating element 40 is for heating at least part of the liquid matrix in the liquid guiding element 30 to generate an aerosol.

[0082] In some embodiments, the liquid guiding element 30 is flexible; for example, the liquid guiding element 30 is made of flexible fibers such as cotton fibers, non-woven fabrics, sponge bodies, etc.; the liquid guiding element 30 is configured to be annular and arranged along the longitudinal direction of the housing 10; the liquid guiding element 30 is coaxial with the first tubular element 14 and is located within the first tubular element 14. In an embodiment, the liquid guiding element 30 is flexible, for example, it is made of flexible fibers such as cotton fibers, non-woven fabrics or sponge bodies. The liquid guiding element 30 is configured to be tubular or cylindrical and arranged along the longitudinal direction of the housing 10; the liquid guiding element 30 is coaxial with the first tubular element 14 and is located within the first tubular element 14. Specifically, for example, the liquid guiding element 30 is a cylindrical shape wound from a sheet-like precursor including multiple layers of flexible fibers. Or in some other variant embodiments, the liquid guiding element 30 is rigid; for example, the liquid guiding element 30 may include a rigid porous body element, etc., such as porous ceramics or porous glass, etc.

[0083] In an embodiment, the outer surface of the liquid guiding element 30 in the radial direction is blocked or communicates with the perforations 141, and thus the outer surface of the liquid guiding element 30 is configured as a liquid absorption surface to receive and suck the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112 through the perforations 141, such as Figure 2 as shown by the arrow R1 in the figure. The inner surface of the liquid guiding element 30 in the radial direction is configured as an atomization surface, and the atomization surface is combined / fitted / abutted against the heating element 40; thus, after the liquid matrix is transferred to the atomization surface, it is heated and atomized by the heating element 40 to generate an aerosol and release it.

[0084] In Figure 2 the embodiment shown, the heating element 40 is configured to extend longitudinally along the housing 10 / liquid guiding element 30; the heating element 40 is arranged coaxially with the liquid guiding element 30. In some embodiments, the heating element 40 is a resistance heating mesh, a resistance heating coil, etc. In this embodiment, the heating element 40 is a heating element wound from a sheet-like or mesh-like base material.

[0085] In some other variant embodiments, the heating element 40 may be combined with the liquid guiding element 30 by means such as printing, deposition, sintering or physical assembly. In some other variant embodiments, the liquid guiding element 30 may have a flat or curved surface for supporting the heating element 40, and the heating element 40 is formed on the flat or curved surface of the liquid guiding element 30 by means such as mounting, printing, deposition, etc. Or in some other variant embodiments, the heating element 40 is a conductive track formed on the surface of the liquid guiding element 30. In some other variant embodiments, the conductive track of the heating element 40 may be in the form of a printed circuit formed by printing. In some other variant embodiments, the heating element 40 is a patterned conductive track. In some other embodiments, the heating element 40 is flat. In some other variant embodiments, the heating element 40 is a conductive track extending in a meandering, winding, reciprocating or bent manner.

[0086] As shown in Figure 2 , the atomizer 100 further includes:

[0087] An end cap 20, coupled to the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10. The end cap 20 at least partially encloses the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10. The end cap 20 at least partially extends into the outer shell 10 from the distal end 120 and supports or holds the first tubular element 14. An air inlet 22 is further disposed on the end cap 20 for allowing external air to enter the atomizer 100 during suction.

[0088] As shown in Figure 2 , the atomizer 100 further includes:

[0089] An air flow channel for providing an air flow path from the air inlet 22 through the atomization assembly to the air outlet 113 during suction, so as to output the aerosol to the air outlet 113. In an embodiment, the complete air flow channel is jointly defined by a plurality of components. Specifically, as shown by the arrow R2 in Figure 2 , the complete air flow path during suction includes: the air entering from the air inlet 22 passes through the end cap 20 to the atomization assembly / heating element 40, and carries the aerosol generated by the heating element 40 to be output from the aerosol output tube 111 to the air outlet 113 for the user to suck.

[0090] As shown in Figure 2 , the atomizer 100 further includes:

[0091] A conductive second tubular element 16, at least partially disposed around the first tubular element 14; and, the second tubular element 16 and the first tubular element 14 are spaced apart. The first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are arranged such that a capacitor can be formed therebetween; of course, the dielectric of the capacitor is formed by the liquid matrix located between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16. The dielectric properties can vary with the liquid level height, density, etc. of the liquid matrix located between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16; of course, according to physical principles, when the space between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 is completely filled with the liquid matrix, the capacitance value of the formed capacitor is relatively larger, at least significantly greater than the capacitance value when the liquid matrix between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 is depleted.

[0092] In some embodiments, according to the capacitance calculation formula of the capacitor, its capacitance depends on the parallel opposite area of the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16, the spacing between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16, and the amount of the liquid matrix as the dielectric between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16. For a given atomizer 100 product after preparation, the parallel opposite area of the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 and the spacing between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are given. Then, the change in the capacitance value of the capacitor formed by them is only related to the amount of the liquid matrix of the dielectric. Therefore, the amount of the liquid matrix can be determined according to the detected capacitance value of the capacitor defined by them.

[0093] In some embodiments, the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are respectively used as two electrodes of the capacitor; the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are configured as ring electrodes or electrode coatings. For example, in some embodiments, the first tubular element 14 and / or the second tubular element 16 includes a tubular electrical insulating substrate and a conductive electrode coating bonded to the surface of the electrical insulating substrate by spraying or deposition, etc.

[0094] In some embodiments, both the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are rigid. Furthermore, in the embodiments, the rigidity enables them to maintain their shapes and the spacing between each other.

[0095] In some embodiments, the spacing distance between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 can be between about 1 mm and about 6 mm; or between about 2 mm and about 5 mm, or between about 3 mm and about 5 mm.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are arranged coaxially. Alternatively, the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are substantially parallel.

[0097] In some embodiments, the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 can include any suitable material; for example, the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 include any suitable conductive material. In some embodiments, suitable conductive materials include metals, alloys, or conductive ceramics, etc. In general embodiments, the conductive material refers to having a resistivity of less than about 1×10 -5 Ωm at 20 °C, usually between about 1×10 -5 Ωm and 1×10 -9 Ωm. In some embodiments, the conductive materials of the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 include at least one of copper, gold, silver, platinum, or stainless steel, etc.

[0098] In some embodiments, the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are substantially exposed to the liquid storage cavity 112. Alternatively, the liquid storage cavity 112 is at least partially formed or defined therebetween. Further, a protective layer may be formed on the exposed surfaces of the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 by means such as deposition, spraying, printing, etc. In the embodiments, the protective layer is beneficial for preventing the liquid matrix from corroding them or causing heavy metal contamination of the liquid matrix due to ion exchange.

[0099] In some embodiments, the liquid storage cavity 112 has a first side near the proximal end 110 and a second side opposite the first side; alternatively, the second side is near the distal end 120. The first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are at least partially located in the liquid storage cavity 112 and are arranged closer to the second side.

[0100] In some embodiments, the second tubular element 16 is bonded or firmly held on the inner surface of the housing 10; for example, the second tubular element 16 is bonded to the inner surface of the housing 10 by means such as deposition, printing, mounting, inlaying, etc. as a coating or thin layer. Alternatively, the second tubular element 16 is arranged around a portion of the liquid storage cavity 112. In some embodiments, the first tubular element 14 has perforations 141. The second tubular element 16 is dense and has no holes.

[0101] In some embodiments, the lengths of the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are substantially the same. Or in Figure 2 the illustrated embodiment, the length of the first tubular element 14 is greater than the length of the second tubular element 16. In some embodiments, the lengths of the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 are greater than 6 mm. In some embodiments, the length of the first tubular element 14 surrounded or enclosed by the second tubular element 16 is greater than 5 mm.

[0102] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the circuit on the circuit board 220 of an embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the circuit of the circuit board 220 includes:

[0103] A capacitance detection chip 222 having a first connection end 2221 and a second connection end 2222; the first connection end 2221 and the second connection end 2222 are used to electrically connect to the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 respectively, so that the capacitance detection chip 222 can detect electrical quantities such as capacitance values of the capacitor formed by the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16. The capacitance detection chip 222 is, for example, a BS814A-1 chip, an ELK32400 chip, etc.

[0104] Alternatively, in some other variant embodiments, the circuits on the circuit board 220 are arranged to determine the amount of the liquid matrix between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 by detecting electrical quantities of the capacitor formed by the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16, such as voltage values, resistance values, etc.

[0105] In some embodiments, for example Figure 2 as shown in, the number of the electrical contacts 21 of the atomizer 100 may include at least more than 4; alternatively, the electrical contacts 21 of the atomizer 100 include at least two first electrical contacts and two second electrical contacts. In use, both ends of the heating element 40 are respectively connected to the two first electrical contacts by soldering the conductive pins 41 and the conductive pins 42, so as to conduct current on the heating element 40 through the first electrical contacts. And, the first tubular element 14 is connected to one of the two second electrical contacts by soldering the conductive pin 61, etc., and the second tubular element 16 is connected to the other of the two second electrical contacts by soldering the conductive pin 62, etc. Accordingly, four electrical contacts 230 corresponding to the four electrical contacts 21 respectively are arranged on the power supply mechanism 200. Two of the electrical contacts 230 are used to provide conduction with the first electrical contacts, so that the circuit board 220 controls the power output to the heating element 40; two of the electrical contacts 230 are used to provide conduction with the second electrical contacts, so that the capacitance detection chip 222 detects the electrical quantities of the capacitor formed by the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16, such as capacitance values.

[0106] In Figure 3 the shown embodiment, the circuit of the circuit board 220 further includes:

[0107] A switching transistor Q1, which is used to conduct current between the heating element 40 and the voltage output terminal of the battery cell 210, such as the positive electrode, that is, to supply power to the heating element 40;

[0108] An MCU controller 221, which controls the power supplied to the heating element 40 by controlling the conduction or disconnection of the switching transistor Q1.

[0109] In some embodiments, the MCU controller 221 is further configured to receive the result of the electrical quantity sensed by the capacitance detection chip 222, such as the capacitance value, and determine the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112 according to the comparison between the sensed electrical quantity, such as the capacitance value, and a preset threshold.

[0110] In a more preferred embodiment, the MCU controller 221 is further configured to determine whether the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112 is insufficient or depleted according to whether the sensed electrical quantity, such as the capacitance value, is lower than the minimum threshold; and, when it is determined that the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112 is depleted or insufficient, prevent the switching transistor Q1 from conducting or prevent power from being supplied to the heating element 40.

[0111] For example Figure 7In an embodiment, there is shown a schematic diagram of a method for a circuit to control the power output to the heating element 40 by detecting an electrical quantity of a capacitor, such as a capacitance value; in the embodiment, the control may include:

[0112] S10, detecting an electrical quantity of a capacitor formed by the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16, such as a capacitance value, to determine the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112;

[0113] S20, controlling the power supplied to the heating element 40 according to the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112. For example, when the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112 is greater than a predetermined amount, allowing the power output by the battery cell 210 to be supplied to the heating element 40, and when the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112 is lower than a minimum threshold, preventing the power output by the battery cell 210 from being supplied to the heating element 40.

[0114] In Figure 2 the shown embodiment, the atomizer 100 further includes:

[0115] A liquid holding element 50, assembled or held between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 for adsorbing and holding the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112. The liquid holding element 50 is close to or located on the second side of the liquid storage cavity 112.

[0116] In some embodiments, the liquid holding element 50 is made of a flexible or rigid porous material or fiber material for adsorbing and holding a part of the liquid matrix stored in the liquid storage cavity 112; the liquid holding element 50 is substantially in an annular shape.

[0117] In use, when the user holds the atomizer 100 / electronic atomization device obliquely, the liquid storage cavity 112 is inclined, which may cause the liquid level between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16 to be inclined, so that the amount of the liquid matrix determined by sensing an electrical quantity such as a capacitance value deviates from the true value. Then, the liquid matrix is adsorbed and held by the liquid holding element 50, so as to eliminate the deviation caused by the user holding the atomizer 100 / electronic atomization device obliquely.

[0118] In Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid storage chamber 112 may include a first space and a second space along the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100; the second space is defined between the first tubular element 14 and the second tubular element 16; the liquid retaining element 50 is substantially located in the second space and fills at least a portion of the second space. In an embodiment, the first space is substantially staggered with the atomizer assembly along the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100; the second space is adjacent to, surrounds, or is close to the atomizer assembly, and the liquid retaining element 50 does not extend into the first space. In an embodiment, the liquid retaining element 50 is filled or arranged in the second space to avoid the liquid being mainly concentrated in the first space in a tilted or inverted state, so that the liquid matrix can be adsorbed and retained near the atomizer assembly by the liquid retaining element 50 when tilted or inverted (especially when the liquid volume is low), so that the detection can also truly reflect the actual liquid volume in a tilted or inverted state.

[0119] Or in some other embodiments, the atomizer 100 further includes:

[0120] The tilt sensor, such as a gyroscope or a gravity acceleration sensor, is used to sense the tilt angle of the atomizer 100 / electronic atomization device. The MCU controller 221 is configured to receive the result of the electrical quantity, such as the capacitance value, sensed by the capacitance detection chip 222 to determine the amount of liquid matrix in the liquid storage chamber 112 only when the tilt sensor senses that the tilt angle of the atomizer 100 / electronic atomization device is less than a predetermined angle. Alternatively, when the tilt sensor senses that the tilt angle of the atomizer 100 / electronic atomization device is greater than a predetermined angle, the amount of liquid matrix determined by sampling the electrical quantity, such as the capacitance value, is deviated from the true value, and the MCU controller 221 does not receive the sensing result of the capacitance detection chip 222.

[0121] or Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a nebulizer 100a of another embodiment is shown, in which the nebulizer 100a comprises:

[0122] The housing 10 has a proximal end 110a and a distal end 120a which are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction; the proximal end 110a is provided with an air outlet 113a;

[0123] An aerosol output tube 111a and a tubular element 14a are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100a, and a sealing element 15a is provided between the aerosol output tube 111a and the tubular element 14a; the aerosol output tube 111a is arranged to extend from the air outlet 113a toward the distal end 120a; the tubular element 14a is at least partially located between the aerosol output tube 111a and the distal end 120a;

[0124] A liquid storage chamber 112a for storing a liquid matrix; the liquid storage chamber 112a is at least partially defined between the outer shell 10a, the aerosol output tube 111a, and the tubular element 14a;

[0125] The atomization assembly located in the tubular element 14a includes a liquid guiding element 30a and a heating element 40a; the liquid guiding element 30a is arranged to extend longitudinally along the atomizer 100a, and the outer surface of the liquid guiding element 30a is in fluid communication with the liquid storage chamber 112a through a perforation 141a on the tubular element 14a, so as to suck the liquid matrix; the heating element 40a is combined with the inner surface of the liquid guiding element 30a; the heating element 40a is arranged in a cylindrical shape extending longitudinally along the atomizer 100a;

[0126] The end cap 20a extends at least partially into the outer shell 10a from the distal end 120a, at least partially closes the distal end 120a of the outer shell 10a, and supports the tubular element 14a. An air inlet 22a for air to enter the atomizer 100a is also arranged on the end cap 20a.

[0127] In this embodiment, both the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a are conductors; in some embodiments, the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a are arranged coaxially. Also, the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a are spaced apart. Further, in the embodiment, a capacitor can be formed between the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a, the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a are respectively used as the two electrodes of the capacitor, and the liquid guiding element 30a and the sucked liquid matrix form the dielectric of the capacitor. The dielectric property can vary with the amount of the liquid matrix sucked by the liquid guiding element 30a. Then, in some embodiments, according to the capacitance value calculation formula of the capacitor, its capacitance value depends on the amount of the liquid matrix sucked by the liquid guiding element 30a. Then, by detecting the capacitance value of the capacitor defined by them, the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid guiding element 30a can be determined; more preferably, the depletion or insufficiency of the liquid matrix in the liquid guiding element 30a can also be determined according to the capacitance value of the capacitor.

[0128] In some embodiments, the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a are respectively used as the two electrodes of the capacitor; the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a are configured to be in a tubular shape made of a conductive material. Or in some embodiments, the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a include a tubular electrical insulating substrate and a coating of a conductive material bonded to the surface of the electrical insulating substrate by spraying or deposition.

[0129] According to Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments, the heating element 40a is arranged in a cylindrical shape wound by a sheet; the heating element 40a is closed in the circumferential direction and has side openings; the heating element 40a has a first conductive pin 41a and a second conductive pin 42a located on both sides of the side openings. The heating element 40a is arranged in a mesh shape extending between the first conductive pin 41a and the second conductive pin 42a.

[0130] Or Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the heating element 40b of another embodiment is shown, in which the heating element 40b is arranged in a tubular shape extending longitudinally; the heating element 40b is closed in the circumferential direction. The heating element 40b has a first electrical connection portion 410b near the first end along the longitudinal direction, a second electrical connection portion 420b near the second end, and a heating portion 430b extending between the first electrical connection portion 410b and the second electrical connection portion 420b. A first conductive pin 41a is welded or connected to the first electrical connection portion 410b, and a second conductive pin 42a is welded or connected to the second electrical connection portion 420b, so as to guide current on the heating portion 430b to make the heating portion 430b generate heat through resistive Joule heating. In this embodiment, a plurality of mesh holes 431b penetrating the heating element 40b in the radial direction are arranged in the heating portion 430b, so that the heating portion 430b is basically in a mesh shape. The plurality of mesh holes 431b arranged in the above array can reduce the mass of the heating element 40b, which is beneficial to improving the temperature rising efficiency of the heating portion 430b during induction heating. There are no mesh holes 431b on the first electrical connection portion 410b and the second electrical connection portion 420b, and the first electrical connection portion 410b and the second electrical connection portion 420b are dense. In some embodiments, the mesh holes 431b are usually in the shape of tiny circles or regular polygons, etc.; or in some other embodiments, the mesh holes 431b can also be in the shape of rectangles, polygons or irregular shapes such as slender slits, etc.

[0131] In this embodiment, it is beneficial for the heating element 40b to have a larger area, thereby increasing the capacitance of the capacitor of the component.

[0132] Correspondingly, in this embodiment, when the atomizer 100a is combined in the power supply mechanism 200, the first connection end 2221 and the second connection end 2222 of the capacitance detection chip 222 in the circuit are respectively electrically connected to the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a, so that the capacitance detection chip 222 can detect the capacitance value of the capacitor formed by the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a.

[0133] In this embodiment, for example Figure 4As shown, the atomizer 100a may include three electrical contacts 21a. Among them, the tubular element 14a is connected to one electrical contact 21a by welding a conductive pin 61a. The first conductive pins 41a / 41b and the second conductive pins 42a / 42b at both ends of the heating elements 40a / 40b are respectively connected to the other two electrical contacts 21a. Correspondingly, the electrical contacts 230 on the power supply mechanism 200 also correspond to three. When the atomizer 100a is received in the power supply mechanism 200, the electrical contacts 21a and 230a are in contact conduction. Thus, on the one hand, the first conductive pins 41a / 41b at both ends of the heating elements 40a / 40b are connected to the positive electrode of the battery cell 210 through the switching transistor Q1, and the second conductive pins 42a / 42b are connected to the negative electrode of the battery cell 210 to conduct current through the heating elements 40a / 40b. On the other hand, the first connection end 2221 and the second connection end 2222 of the capacitance detection chip 222 are respectively connected to the tubular element 14a and the second conductive pin 42a / 42b of the heating element 40a / 40b, and further used to detect the capacitance value of the capacitor formed by the tubular element 14a and the heating element 40a.

[0134] In this embodiment, the MCU controller 221 is configured to receive the result of the capacitance value sensed by the capacitance detection chip 222, and determine the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid guiding element 30a according to the sensed capacitance value; and, when it is determined that the liquid matrix in the liquid guiding element 30a is depleted or insufficient, prevent the switching transistor Q1 from conducting or prevent power from being supplied to the heating elements 40a / 40b.

[0135] Or Figure 8 The schematic diagram of the atomizer 100c showing another embodiment is presented. In this embodiment, the atomizer 100c includes:

[0136] A housing 10c having a proximal end 110c and a distal end 120c opposite to each other along the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100c; the distal end 120c is combined with an end cap 20c, and thus the distal end of the housing 10c is enclosed by the end cap 20c; the proximal end 110c is provided with an air outlet 113c;

[0137] A liquid storage cavity 112c including a first space 1121c and a second space 1122c arranged along the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100c; the first space 1121c is mainly defined between the aerosol output tube 111c and the housing 10c;

[0138] The first tubular element 14c extends longitudinally along the atomizer 100c, or the first tubular element 14c is substantially located in the second space 1122c of the liquid storage cavity 112c; at least a part of the first tubular element 14c is arranged to extend within the liquid storage cavity 112c; at least a part of the first tubular element 14c is located between the aerosol output tube 111c and the distal end 120c; and the first tubular element 14c is in airflow connection with the aerosol output tube 111c; a flexible sealing element 15c is arranged between the first tubular element 14c and the aerosol output tube 111c to provide a seal therebetween; a plurality of perforations 141c are arranged on the tube wall of the first tubular element 14c;

[0139] An atomization assembly is accommodated and assembled within the first tubular element 14c; the atomization assembly includes a liquid guiding element 30c and a heating element 40c coupled to the liquid guiding element 30c.

[0140] According to Figure 8 shown, the atomizer 100c further includes:

[0141] Substantially parallel first and second conductive elements 81c and 82c; the first and second conductive elements 81c and 82c are arranged at intervals to form a capacitor therebetween; in this embodiment, the first and second conductive elements 81c and 82c are located in the second space 1122c of the liquid storage cavity 112c; alternatively, at least a part of the second space 1122c of the liquid storage cavity 112c is formed or defined between the first and second conductive elements 81c and 82c, and the second space 1122c of the liquid storage cavity 112c is adjacent to the atomization assembly.

[0142] In Figure 8 the shown embodiment, the first conductive element 81c may be permeable or penetrable by the liquid matrix, so that the liquid matrix in the first space 1121c can pass through the first conductive element 81c into the second space 1122c during use and be absorbed and held by the liquid holding element 50c, as shown by the arrow R1 in Figure 8 . For example, holes, cutouts or notches on the edge, etc. may be arranged on the first conductive element 81c, or the first conductive element 81c is an incomplete ring or a closed ring, etc., so that the first conductive element 81c is permeable to the liquid matrix.

[0143] According to Figure 8 shown, the atomizer 100c further includes: a liquid holding element 50c, which is assembled or held between the first and second conductive elements 81c and 82c for adsorbing and holding the liquid matrix in the second space 1122c of the liquid storage cavity 112c.

[0144] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c are arranged to be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100c; the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c are arranged parallel to each other. Further, the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c are arranged in a sheet-like or planar shape. Alternatively, in some other variant embodiments, the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c extend along the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100c; or, the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c are arranged coaxially. In use, a parallel plate capacitor is defined by the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c.

[0145] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c are parallel sheet-like or plate-like and are arranged at intervals; the liquid holding element 50c and the atomization assembly are both clamped or held between the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c.

[0146] As shown in Figure 8 , the number of electrical contacts 21c of the atomizer 100c may include at least more than 4; or, the electrical contacts 21c of the atomizer 100c at least include two first electrical contacts and two second electrical contacts. In use, both ends of the heating element 40c are respectively connected to the two first electrical contacts by welding conductive pins 41c and conductive pins 42c, so as to conduct current on the heating element 40c through the first electrical contacts. Further, the first conductive element 81c is connected to one of the two second electrical contacts by welding conductive pins 61c, etc.; the second conductive element 82c is connected to the other of the two second electrical contacts by welding conductive pins 62c, etc.

[0147] In use, the amount of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity 112c is determined by sensing the electrical quantity, such as the capacitance value, between the first conductive element 81c and the second conductive element 82c. Further, the liquid matrix is adsorbed and held by the liquid holding element 50c, so as to eliminate the deviation caused when the user holds the atomizer 100c / electronic atomization device obliquely.

[0148] It should be noted that the description and the accompanying drawings of the present application give preferred embodiments of the present application, but are not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. Further, for those of ordinary skill in the art, improvements or transformations can be made according to the above description, and all such improvements and transformations should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims of the present application.

Claims

1. An electronic atomization device, characterized in that, Comprising: A liquid storage chamber for storing a liquid matrix; A conductive first tubular element extending at least partially within the liquid storage chamber; An atomization assembly for receiving the liquid matrix from the liquid storage chamber and atomizing it to generate an aerosol; A conductive second tubular element disposed at least partially within the liquid storage chamber around the first tubular element; The second tubular element is disposed spaced apart from the first tubular element to form a capacitor between the second tubular element and the first tubular element; A circuit configured to determine the amount of the liquid matrix within the liquid storage chamber based on detecting an electrical quantity of the capacitor.

2. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1, wherein, The electrical quantity includes the capacitance value of the capacitor.

3. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first tubular element and / or the second tubular element comprises a metal or an alloy, or is made of a metal or an alloy.

4. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first tubular element and the second tubular element are arranged substantially coaxially.

5. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The spacing distance between the first tubular element and the second tubular element is between 1 mm and 6 mm.

6. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The length of the first tubular element and / or the second tubular element is greater than 6 mm.

7. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Further comprising: A proximal end and a distal end facing away from each other in the longitudinal direction; the liquid storage chamber includes a first side near the proximal end and a second side near the distal end; The first tubular element and the second tubular element are disposed near or at the second side of the liquid storage chamber.

8. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Further comprising: A liquid holding element located between the first tubular element and the second tubular element for absorbing and holding a part of the liquid matrix in the liquid storage chamber.

9. The electronic atomization device according to claim 8, wherein, The liquid storage chamber includes a first space and a second space, the second space is defined between the first tubular element and the second tubular element, and the liquid holding element fills at least a part of the second space.

10. The electronic atomization device according to claim 9, wherein The second space is adjacent to the atomization assembly, and the liquid holding element does not extend into the first space.

11. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Further comprising: A housing; The second tubular element is arranged to be combined with or held by the housing.

12. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The circuit is further configured to determine the amount of the liquid matrix within the liquid storage chamber by comparing the electrical quantity of the capacitor with a preset threshold.

13. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The circuit is further configured to determine that the liquid matrix within the liquid storage chamber is insufficient or depleted based on the electrical quantity of the capacitor being lower than a minimum threshold, and to prevent power supply to the atomization assembly according to the insufficiency or depletion of the liquid matrix within the liquid storage chamber.

14. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The atomization assembly includes a heating element, and the first tubular element or the second tubular element is configured as the heating element.

15. An electronic atomization device, characterized in that, Comprising: A liquid storage chamber for storing a liquid matrix; An atomization assembly for receiving the liquid matrix from the liquid storage chamber and atomizing it to generate an aerosol; A first conductive element and a second conductive element arranged substantially parallel or coaxially, the second conductive element being disposed spaced apart from the first conductive element to form a capacitor between the second conductive element and the first conductive element; The liquid storage chamber includes a first space and a second space, the second space is defined between the first conductive element and the second conductive element and is adjacent to the atomization assembly; A liquid holding element filling at least a part of the second space and not extending into the first space; A circuit configured to determine the amount of liquid matrix in the liquid storage cavity based on detecting an electrical quantity of the capacitor.

16. An electronic atomization device, characterized in that, Comprising: A liquid storage cavity for storing a liquid matrix; A tubular element; A heating element located within the tubular element and configured to be cylindrical extending along a longitudinal direction of the tubular element for heating the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol; A liquid guiding element located between the tubular element and the heating element for holding a portion of the liquid matrix and conducting the liquid matrix to the heating element; The tubular element is a conductor to form a capacitor between the tubular element and the heating element; A circuit configured to determine the amount of liquid matrix in the liquid guiding element based on detecting an electrical quantity of the capacitor.

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