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 tubular base body, a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end are opposite; the second end of the base body is closed, and the base body is provided with an end wall located at the second end; the end wall is used for the aerosol generating product received in the base body to abut against; the heating element is combined on the tubular side wall of the base body; the first supporting element and the second supporting element are arranged at intervals, and the base body is kept between the first supporting element and the second supporting element; the first supporting element surrounds one part of the heater and is combined with the first end of the heater; the first supporting element is tightly connected with the heater and is hermetically sealed with the heater; the second support element passes through the support end wall. According to the aerosol generating device, the base body with the end walls is supported or kept between the spaced supporting elements, and therefore flexible O-shaped rings do not need to be arranged at the first end and the second end of the base body to provide sealing.

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. Attempts have been made 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 compounds by heating rather than burning a material. For example, the material can be tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Known heating devices heat the tobacco or non-tobacco product by radiating infrared rays from a tubular infrared heating element. Annular support elements are placed at each end of the tubular infrared heater to support and hold the infrared heater. A seal, such as an O-ring, is provided between the support element and the infrared heater. Utility Model Content

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

[0005] A tubular base comprising a first end and a second end opposite to each other; an aerosol-generating article can be received in or removed from the base through the first end; the second end of the base is closed and has an end wall located at the second end; the end wall is configured to abut against the aerosol-generating article received in the base to form a stop;

[0006] a heating element formed on or bonded to the tubular sidewall of the substrate for heating the aerosol-generating article received within the substrate;

[0007] A first supporting element and a second supporting element are arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device; the substrate is longitudinally retained between the first supporting element and the second supporting element; wherein,

[0008] The first support element is arranged to surround a portion of the heater and is coupled to a first end of the heater, and is configured to provide support for the heater at the first end; the first support element is tightly connected to the heater and is airtightly sealed with the heater to prevent air from entering the base from therebetween;

[0009] The second support element is arranged to provide support to the heater by supporting the end wall.

[0010] In some embodiments, further comprising:

[0011] A first thermal insulation element is arranged between the end wall and the second support element to provide thermal insulation between the base and the second support element.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first thermal insulation element is flexible; and the first thermal insulation element is at least partially squeezed or compressed by the end wall and the second support element.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first supporting element is substantially annular; the first supporting element has a connecting portion, and is surrounded by and coupled to the base body by the connecting portion;

[0014] The outer surface of the connecting portion has a plurality of pressure relief grooves arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0015] In some embodiments, further comprising:

[0016] an electrode for conducting an electric current on the heating element, the electrode having an electrical connection extending from the heating element to the end wall;

[0017] Battery cells, used for power supply;

[0018] The circuit board is electrically connected to the electrical connection portion of the electrode, thereby providing the power of the battery core to the heating element.

[0019] In some embodiments, further comprising:

[0020] The conductive electrical contact element at least partially provides a conductive connection between the electrical connection portion and the circuit board.

[0021] In some embodiments, the electrical contact element is longitudinally extended and passes through the second supporting element.

[0022] In some embodiments, the electrical contact element is securely held on the second support element.

[0023] In some embodiments, the electrical contact element is elastic; the electrical contact element abuts against the electrical connection portion to conduct electricity with the electrical connection portion, and is at least partially squeezed or compressed by the end wall.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first supporting element is firmly connected to the heater and is hermetically sealed with the heater to prevent air from entering the base from between them;

[0025] and / or, there is no gap or clearance between the first supporting element and the heater;

[0026] And / or, the first supporting element and the heater are inseparable or non-detachable.

[0027] In some embodiments, the heating element is spaced apart from the first end, thereby defining a first spacing area between the heating element and the first end on the substrate; the first supporting element is connected to the substrate in the first spacing area and avoids the heating element.

[0028] In some embodiments, the heating element includes a first heating element and a second heating element spaced apart from each other on the substrate; the second heating element is closer to the second end than the first heating element;

[0029] The electrode comprises:

[0030] a first electrode coupled to the first heating element;

[0031] a second electrode comprising a first segment and a second segment arranged in a longitudinal direction; the first segment being coupled to the first heating element and spaced apart from the first electrode in a circumferential direction of the first heating element; and the second segment being coupled to the second heating element;

[0032] a third electrode and a fourth electrode coupled to the second heating element at intervals along the circumferential direction of the second heating element, and spaced apart from the second segment of the second electrode in the circumferential direction of the second heating element;

[0033] Battery cells, used for power supply;

[0034] The circuit connects at least two of the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode to the battery cell, thereby providing power from the battery cell to the first heating element and / or the second heating element.

[0035] In some embodiments, the second heating element is non-closed in the circumferential direction and defines a gap passing through the second heating element in the longitudinal direction; the third electrode is located on a first side of the gap, and the fourth electrode is located on a second side of the gap.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first electrode passes through the gap.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first electrode has a first electrical connection portion extending to the end wall; and / or the second electrode has a second electrical connection portion extending to the end wall; and / or the third electrode has a third electrical connection portion extending to the end wall; and / or the fourth electrode has a fourth electrical connection portion extending to the end wall;

[0038] The first electrical connection portion has a shape different from that of the second electrical connection portion and / or the third electrical connection portion and / or the fourth electrical connection portion, so as to provide a shape indication for distinguishing or identifying the first electrical connection portion.

[0039] Another embodiment of the present application further provides a heating mechanism for an aerosol generating device, comprising:

[0040] A tubular base body comprising a first end and a second end opposite to each other; the first end is open and the second end is closed; the base body has an end wall located at the second end;

[0041] a heating element formed on or bonded to the tubular sidewall of the substrate;

[0042] A first supporting element and a second supporting element are arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the heating mechanism; the substrate is longitudinally held between the first supporting element and the second supporting element; wherein,

[0043] The first support element is arranged to surround a portion of the heater and is coupled to a first end of the heater, and is configured to provide support for the heater at the first end; the first support element is tightly connected to the heater and is airtightly sealed with the heater to prevent air from entering the base from therebetween;

[0044] The second support element is arranged to provide support to the heater by supporting the end wall.

[0045] In the above aerosol generating device, the base body having the end walls is supported or held between the spaced support members, thereby eliminating the need to arrange flexible O-rings at the first end and the second end of the base body to provide sealing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] One or more embodiments are exemplarily illustrated by pictures in the corresponding drawings. These exemplifications do not constitute limitations on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are represented as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings do not constitute proportional limitations.

[0047] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device provided by an embodiment;

[0048] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of the heating mechanism from one perspective;

[0049] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded schematic diagram of the heating mechanism from one perspective;

[0050] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 An exploded schematic diagram of the heating mechanism from another perspective;

[0051] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a heating mechanism from one perspective;

[0052] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 An exploded schematic diagram of a cross-sectional view of the central heating mechanism;

[0053] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A structural diagram of the middle heater from another perspective;

[0054] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A structural diagram of the middle heater from another perspective;

[0055] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 An exploded diagram of one view of the central heater;

[0056] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the central heater after circumferential expansion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] In order to facilitate the understanding of the present application, the present application is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods.

[0058] One embodiment of the present application provides an aerosol generating device 100 that heats, rather than burns, an aerosol generating article 1000, such as a cigarette, to volatilize or release at least one component of the aerosol generating article 1000 to form an aerosol for inhalation, for example Figure 1 shown.

[0059] In further alternative embodiments, the aerosol-generating article 1000 preferably comprises a tobacco-containing material that releases volatile compounds from the substrate upon heating; or a non-tobacco material that can be heated and then suitable for electrically heated smoking. The aerosol-generating article 1000 preferably comprises a solid substrate that may comprise one or more of powder, granules, shredded strips, ribbons, or flakes of one or more of herb leaves, tobacco leaves, homogenized tobacco, and expanded tobacco; or the solid substrate may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating.

[0060] according to Figure 1 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, for the user to inhale.

[0061] The structure of the aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment of the present application can be found in Figure 1 As shown, the overall appearance of the device is generally constructed in a longitudinal shape. The aerosol generating device 100 includes:

[0062] a chamber having an opening 40 through which the aerosol-generating article 1000 can be removably received;

[0063] The heating mechanism 300 includes a tubular heater 30; the heater 30 is arranged to at least partially surround or define the chamber; when the aerosol-generating article 1000 is received in the chamber, the heating mechanism 300 surrounds the aerosol-generating article 1000 from the outside and heats the aerosol-generating article 1000, thereby causing the aerosol-generating article 1000 to release a plurality of volatile compounds, wherein these volatile compounds are formed only by the heating process;

[0064] A battery cell 10 for supplying power; more preferably, the battery cell 10 is a rechargeable DC battery cell 10 and can be charged by connecting to an external power source;

[0065] The circuit board 20 , such as a PCB board or an FPC board, is provided with a circuit for conducting current between the battery cell 10 and the heating mechanism 300 .

[0066] exist Figures 2 to 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the heater 30 is arranged to have a tubular shape, and a chamber for receiving the aerosol-generating article 1000 is formed or defined by at least a portion of the tubular hollowness of the heater 30. When the aerosol-generating article 1000 is received in the chamber, the heater 30 at least partially surrounds or encloses the aerosol-generating article 1000 and heats the aerosol-generating article 1000 from the periphery. Furthermore, when the aerosol-generating article 1000 is received in the chamber, it is at least partially contained and retained within the heater 30.

[0067] Figures 2 to 10 A schematic diagram of a heater 30 is shown in one embodiment, in which the heater 30 comprises:

[0068] a tubular substrate 31; in use, the sidewall of the substrate 31 at least partially surrounds or defines a chamber for receiving and holding the aerosol-generating article 1000;

[0069] At least one heating element is formed or arranged on the sidewall of the substrate 31. In some embodiments, the heating element is formed on the outer surface of the substrate 31 by deposition, spraying, printing, or wrapping. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the heating element is formed on the inner surface of the substrate 31.

[0070] In some embodiments, the circumferential length or girth of the base 31 is greater than the longitudinal length of the base 31. In some embodiments, the longitudinal length of the base 31 is no more than 15 mm or less than 15 mm. In some embodiments, the base 31 may have a longitudinal length of approximately 10 mm to 15 mm and an inner diameter of approximately 5.8 mm to 10 mm. In some specific embodiments, the base 31 may have a longitudinal length of 12 mm and an inner diameter of 7.6 mm.

[0071] In some embodiments, heater 30 comprises:

[0072] The first end 310 and the second end 320 are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction; the base body 31 is configured to extend from the first end 310 to the second end 320. Figures 2 to 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 310 and the second end 320 of the heater 30 are defined by the two ends of the substrate 31 in the longitudinal direction, respectively; and the cavity 350 of the substrate 31 at least partially defines the chamber for receiving the aerosol-generating article 1000 .

[0073] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the tubular base 31 is open at a first end 310 and closed at a second end 320. The base 31 has an end wall 330 at the second end 320, which is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the base 31 and is connected to the side wall of the base 31. Furthermore, the chamber defined by the hollow space 350 of the base 31 is closed on the side facing away from the opening 40. Specifically, the chamber is closed by the end wall 330 of the base 31 on the side facing away from the opening 40. When the aerosol-generating article 1000 is received in the heater 30, the aerosol-generating article 1000 abuts against the end wall 330 of the base 31 to provide a stop.

[0074] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the end wall 330 facing the chamber is provided with a protrusion for the aerosol-generating article 1000 to abut against. When the aerosol-generating article 1000 abuts against the protrusion on the inner surface of the end wall 330 to form a stop, a gap is formed between the aerosol-generating article 1000 and the inner surface of the end wall 330. The gap between the aerosol-generating article 1000 and the inner surface of the end wall 330 receives and retains debris or aerosol condensate that falls out of the aerosol-generating article 1000.

[0075] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the heating element comprises:

[0076] The first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 are formed or arranged on the substrate 31. In some embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 are formed on the outer surface of the substrate 31 by deposition, spraying, printing, or wrapping. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 are formed on the inner surface of the substrate 31.

[0077] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the base 31. The first heating element 32 is closed in the circumferential direction of the heater 30; the first heating element 32 has a closed ring shape. The second heating element 33 is not closed in the circumferential direction of the heater 30; further, a notch 332 is defined in the second heating element 33 that passes through the second heating element 33 in the longitudinal direction, thereby forming a non-closed ring shape.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 are coatings or thin layers formed on the substrate 31 by deposition, spraying, printing, etc. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 are films wrapped around or bonded to the substrate 31. Alternatively, in other optional embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 may be a resistive heating film wound around or bonded to the substrate 31.

[0079] In some embodiments, the thickness of the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 in the form of a resistive coating can preferably be controlled to be 10 μm to 300 μm; and the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 can be formed on the surface of the tubular substrate 31 by spraying them on the outer surface of the tubular substrate 31 by atmospheric plasma spraying and then curing them.

[0080] In some embodiments, the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 have substantially the same length. For example, in one specific embodiment, the length of the first heating element 32 and the length of the second heating element 33 are both 4 to 8 mm. In another specific embodiment, the length of the first heating element 32 and / or the length of the second heating element 33 is 6.5 mm. Alternatively, in other variations, the length of the first heating element 32 and / or the length of the second heating element 33 are different. Alternatively, in other variations, the length of the first heating element 32 is less than the length of the second heating element 33.

[0081] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the heater 30 may include only two infrared emitting layers, namely the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the heater 30 may include more heating layers, such as four, five, six, or more heating layers sequentially spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 31.

[0082] In some embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 are resistive heating layers; by directing an electric current through the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 generate heat through resistive Joule heating, thereby heating the aerosol-generating article 1000. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 used for heating by generating resistive Joule heating may comprise graphite or a resistive metal or alloy; wherein the metal or alloy may be, for example, nickel-chromium alloy, nickel-iron alloy, platinum, tungsten, silver, aluminum, titanium, molybdenum, manganese, or alloys containing these.

[0083] When the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 are heated by resistive heating, the material of the substrate 31 is a material with good thermal conductivity, such as ceramic, glass, surface-insulated metal or alloy such as anodized aluminum, aluminum alloy, copper alloy, stainless steel, etc. In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the substrate 31 is at least 10 W / mk, preferably or at least 100 W / mk; or in some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the substrate 31 is greater than 200 W / mk or higher. In some embodiments, the substrate 31 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 31 is between 0.1 and 0.5 mm; more specifically, for example, the wall thickness of the substrate 31 is between 0.15 and 0.2 mm.

[0084] In yet other embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 are infrared emitting layers, such as electroluminescent infrared emitting layers. By directly supplying a DC voltage to the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33, the voltage can drive the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 to radiate infrared light, thereby heating the aerosol-generating article 1000. When the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 are used for heating by radiating infrared light, the substrate 31 is made of an infrared-transparent material, such as quartz, glass, or ceramic. In some implementations, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 for radiating infrared light can be a coating made of a ceramic material, such as zirconium, Fe-Mn-Cu, tungsten, or transition metals and their oxides. For example, in some embodiments, the first heating element 32 and / or the second heating element 33 for radiating infrared rays are composed of oxides of at least one metal element such as Mg, Al, Ti, Zr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Cr, and Zn. These metal oxides can radiate far-infrared rays with heating effect when heated to an appropriate heating temperature.

[0085] In some embodiments, the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 are made of the same material, thereby emitting the same infrared radiation wavelength or infrared radiation efficiency when heating different sections of the aerosol product 1000. Alternatively, in other variations, one of the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 is made of a different material than the other two, and the infrared emission spectra of the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 have different WLPs (peak wavelengths, the wavelength corresponding to the point of maximum radiation power), respectively adapted to the optimal absorption wavelength ranges of different organic components in the aerosol product 1000. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 are made of different materials, and have different infrared emission spectra and / or WLPs.

[0086] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the first heating element 32 is arranged closer to the first end 310 than the second heating element 33, and the second heating element 33 is arranged closer to the second end 320 than the first heating element 32. In addition, the outer surface of the base 31 is further defined as follows:

[0087] a spacing region 313 located between the first end 310 and the first heating element 32;

[0088] a spacing region 314 located between the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 to separate the first heating element 32 from the second heating element 33;

[0089] The spacing area 315 is located between the second heating element 33 and the second end 320 .

[0090] In some embodiments, the length of spacer region 313 is greater than the length of spacer region 314 and / or spacer region 315; and the length of spacer region 315 is greater than the length of spacer region 314. In some specific embodiments, the length of spacer region 313 is at least 2 mm, for example, approximately 2 to 5 mm. In some specific embodiments, spacer region 314 has a length of approximately 0.5 to 2 mm. In some embodiments, for example, spacer region 315 has a length of approximately 1 to 4 mm.

[0091] according to Figures 2 to 10 In the embodiment shown, the heater 30 comprises:

[0092] At least two or more electrodes are provided for guiding current on the heating element. Specifically, in an embodiment, the electrodes include: a first electrode 341, a second electrode 342, a third electrode 343 and a fourth electrode 344, for guiding current on the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33. In some embodiments, the first electrode 341 / the second electrode 342 / the third electrode 343 / the fourth electrode 344 are coatings formed by an electrode material with low resistivity. Alternatively, in some alternative embodiments, the first electrode 341 / the second electrode 342 / the third electrode 343 / the fourth electrode 344 can also be replaced with a thinner sheet electrode, which is formed on the heater 30 by welding or close contact. In some optional embodiments, the first electrode 341 / the second electrode 342 / the third electrode 343 / the fourth electrode 344 is made of low-resistivity gold, silver, copper or an alloy thereof.

[0093] In a specific arrangement, the first electrode 341 is at least partially bonded to the first heating element 32; the first electrode 341 is arranged to extend from the spacing region 313 to the spacing region 315, and the second electrode 342 passes through the notch 332 of the second heating element 33. The first electrode 341 has a first electrical connection portion 3411 that extends to the end wall 330 of the base 31. The first electrical connection portion 3411 defines a first electrical connection region that connects the first electrode 341 to the circuit board 20.

[0094] Specifically, the second electrode 342 is arranged to extend from the spacing region 313 to the spacing region 315. The second electrode 342 is simultaneously coupled to the first heating element 32 and the third heating element 33, forming an electrically conductive connection. Specifically, the second electrode 342 includes a first segment and a second segment arranged sequentially along the longitudinal direction; the first segment is coupled to the first heating element 32, and a portion of the second segment is coupled to the second heating element 33. The second electrode 342 also has a second electrical connection portion 3421 extending to the end wall 330 of the base 31. In an embodiment, the width of the first segment is smaller than the width of the second segment. The second electrical connection portion 3421 defines a second electrical connection region that connects the second electrode 342 to the circuit board 20.

[0095] Specifically, the third electrode 343 is at least partially coupled to the second heating element 33. The third electrode 343 is at least partially disposed or located on the first side of the notch 332, and is electrically coupled to the second heating element 33 on the first side of the notch 332. The third electrode 343 is arranged to extend from the spacing region 314 to the spacing region 315. The third electrode 343 also has a third electrical connection portion 3431 extending to the end wall 330 of the base 31. The third electrical connection portion 3431 defines a third electrical connection region that connects the third electrode 343 to the circuit board 20.

[0096] Specifically, the fourth electrode 344 is at least partially coupled to the second heating element 33. The fourth electrode 344 is at least partially disposed or located on the second side of the notch 332, and is electrically coupled to the second heating element 33 on the second side of the notch 332. The fourth electrode 344 is arranged to extend from the spacing region 314 to the spacing region 315. The fourth electrode 344 also has a fourth electrical connection portion 3441 extending to the end wall 330 of the base 31. The fourth electrical connection portion 3441 defines a fourth electrical connection region that connects the third electrode 343 to the circuit board 20.

[0097] In an embodiment, the first electrode 341 and the second electrode 342 are opposite to each other in the radial direction of the heater 30; the third electrode 343 and the fourth electrode 344 are opposite to each other in the radial direction of the heater 30. In some embodiments, the first electrical connection portion 3411 and the second electrical connection portion 3421 are opposite to each other in the radial direction of the end wall 330; and the third electrical connection portion 3431 and the fourth electrical connection portion 3441 are opposite to each other in the radial direction of the end wall 330.

[0098] exist Figures 2 to 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the first electrical connection portion 3411 and / or the second electrical connection portion 3421 have shapes different from those of the third electrical connection portion 3431 and the fourth electrical connection portion 3441 to provide instructions for production assemblers to distinguish or identify them.

[0099] exist Figures 2 to 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the first electrical connection portion 3411 has a different shape than the second electrical connection portion 3421 to provide an indication for production assemblers to distinguish or identify them.

[0100] exist Figures 2 to 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the heating mechanism 300 further comprises:

[0101] The electrical contact element is used to conduct current between the heater 30 and the circuit board 20 ; or, the electrical contact element is used to electrically connect the heater 30 to the circuit board 20 .

[0102] exist Figures 2 to 10 In the embodiment shown, the electrical contact element comprises:

[0103] The first electrical contact element 381 , the second electrical contact element 382 , the third electrical contact element 383 and the fourth electrical contact element 384 are coupled to the heater 30 to conductively connect the heater 30 to the circuit board 20 .

[0104] In some embodiments, electrical contact elements, such as the first electrical contact element 381, the second electrical contact element 382, ​​the third electrical contact element 383, and the fourth electrical contact element 384, are elastic electrical contacts, such as conductive spring pins. In some embodiments, the first electrical contact element 381, the second electrical contact element 382, ​​the third electrical contact element 383, and the fourth electrical contact element 384 are arranged to extend longitudinally. The first electrical contact element 381, the second electrical contact element 382, ​​the third electrical contact element 383, and the fourth electrical contact element 384 are arranged longitudinally between the heater 30 and the circuit board 20.

[0105] After assembly, the first electrical contact element 381 abuts the first electrical connection portion 3411 of the first electrode 341, thereby electrically connecting to the first electrode 341. The first electrical contact element 381 is then connected to the circuit board 20 via a soldering wire or the like, thereby electrically connecting the first electrode 341 to the circuit board 20. The second electrical contact element 382 abuts the second electrical connection portion 3421 of the second electrode 342, thereby electrically connecting to the second electrode 341. The second electrical contact element 382 is then connected to the circuit board 20, thereby electrically connecting the second electrode 342 to the circuit board 20. The third electrical contact element 383 abuts the third electrical connection portion 3431 of the third electrode 343, thereby electrically connecting to the third electrode 343. The third electrical contact element 383 is then connected to the circuit board 20, thereby electrically connecting the third electrode 343 to the circuit board 20. The fourth electrical contact element 384 abuts against the fourth electrical connection portion 3441 of the fourth electrode 344 to conduct electricity with the fourth electrode 344 . The fourth electrical contact element 384 is then connected to the circuit board 20 to electrically connect the fourth electrode 344 to the circuit board 20 .

[0106] After assembly, the first electrical contact element 381 , the second electrical contact element 382 , the third electrical contact element 383 and the fourth electrical contact element 384 are elastic and at least partially compressed.

[0107] according to Figure 10 As shown, in the heater 30 having the above electrode arrangement, the first heating element 32 is divided into two heating regions S21 and S22 arranged in parallel between the first electrode 341 and the second electrode 342 in the circumferential direction. The heating regions S21 and S22 are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the heater 30; and the heating regions S21 and S22 are opposite to each other in the radial direction of the heater 30.

[0108] according to Figure 10 As shown, the second heating element 33 is circumferentially divided into a heating region S31 located between the third electrode 343 and the second electrode 342, and a heating region S32 located between the fourth electrode 344 and the second electrode 342. The heating region S31 and the heating region S32 are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the heater 30.

[0109] according to Figures 7 to 10 As shown, the heater 30 having the above electrode arrangement can selectively control one of the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 to heat up individually by the circuit board 20 during use; and the circuit board 20 can also selectively control the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 to heat up simultaneously in series or in parallel.

[0110] Specifically, for example, in some embodiments, the circuit can electrically connect one of the first electrode 341 and the second electrode 342 to the positive terminal of the battery cell 10 and the other to the negative terminal of the battery cell 10, so that a circumferential current is formed only between the first electrode 341 and the second electrode 342 on the first heating element 32, thereby independently enabling the first heating element 32 to start heating. In this embodiment, the heating area S21 and the heating area S22 of the first heating element 32 are heated in parallel and simultaneously.

[0111] Specifically, for example, in some embodiments, the circuit can simultaneously electrically connect the third electrode 343 and the fourth electrode 344 to the positive electrode of the battery cell 10, and electrically connect the second electrode 342 to the negative electrode of the battery cell 10, thereby forming a circumferential current only on the second heating element 33, thereby independently enabling the second heating element 33 to start heating. In this embodiment, the heating area S31 and the heating area S32 of the second heating element 33 are heated in parallel and simultaneously.

[0112] Specifically, for example, in some embodiments, the circuit can electrically connect one of the third electrode 343 and the fourth electrode 344 to the positive electrode of the battery cell 10 and the other to the negative electrode of the battery cell 10, thereby forming a circumferential current only on the second heating element 33, thereby independently enabling the second heating element 33 to start heating. In this embodiment, the heating area S31 and the heating area S32 of the second heating element 33 are heated simultaneously in series.

[0113] Specifically, for example, in some embodiments, the circuit can simultaneously electrically connect the first electrode 341, the third electrode 343, and the fourth electrode 344 to the positive electrode of the battery cell 10, and electrically connect the second electrode 342 to the negative electrode of the battery cell 10, thereby simultaneously directing current to the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33, so that the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 start heating simultaneously. In this embodiment, the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 are heated simultaneously in parallel.

[0114] Specifically, for example, in some embodiments, the circuit can be configured such that the first electrode 341 is electrically connected to the positive electrode of the battery cell 10, and the third electrode 343 and the fourth electrode 344 are simultaneously electrically connected to the negative electrode of the battery cell 10, while the second electrode 342 is not connected to the circuit or to the battery cell 10. In this case, during operation, the second electrode 342 only provides a series connection between the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33. In this embodiment, the first heating element 32 and the second heating element 33 are heated simultaneously in series. In this embodiment, the heating regions S21 and S22 of the first heating element 32 operate in parallel, and the heating regions S31 and S32 of the second heating element 33 operate in parallel.

[0115] according to Figures 7 to 10 As shown, the first heating element 32 is provided with at least one or more first dummy electrodes 321 extending longitudinally. The plurality of first dummy electrodes 321 are spaced apart circumferentially. At least one of the plurality of first dummy electrodes 321 is coupled to the heating region S21 of the first heating element 32, and at least one is coupled to the heating region S22 of the first heating element 32. The plurality of first dummy electrodes 321 generally extend from the spacing region 313 to the spacing region 314. Furthermore, the plurality of first dummy electrodes 321 are only used to couple to the surface of the first heating element 32, thereby adjusting the resistance or power of the heating region S21 and / or the heating region S22 of the first heating element 32.

[0116] according to Figures 7 to 10As shown, the second heating element 33 is provided with at least one or more second dummy electrodes 331 extending longitudinally. The plurality of second dummy electrodes 331 are spaced apart in the circumferential direction. At least one of the plurality of second dummy electrodes 331 is coupled to the heating region S31 of the second heating element 33, and at least one is coupled to the heating region S32 of the second heating element 33. The plurality of second dummy electrodes 331 substantially extend from the spacing region 314 to the spacing region 315. Furthermore, the plurality of second dummy electrodes 331 are merely coupled to the surface of the second heating element 33, thereby adjusting the resistance value or power of the heating region S31 and / or the heating region S32 of the second heating element 33.

[0117] In an embodiment, the first dummy electrode 321 and / or the second dummy electrode 331 is not connected to the circuit.

[0118] In some embodiments, the width of the first empty electrode 321 and / or the second empty electrode 331 is less than 3 mm. In some specific embodiments, the width of the first empty electrode 321 and / or the second empty electrode 331 is between 0.5 and 2.0 mm.

[0119] In some embodiments, the width of the second dummy electrode 331 is different from the width of the first dummy electrode 321. This allows the second heating element 32 to have a different resistance or power than the first heating element 31 when the first and second heating elements 31 and 32 are operating simultaneously. For example, the width of the second dummy electrode 331 is greater than the width of the first dummy electrode 321. This allows the second heating element 32 to have a lower resistance and higher power when the first and second heating elements 31 and 32 are operating simultaneously. For example, in some specific embodiments, the width of the first dummy electrode 321 is approximately 1.0 mm, and the width of the second dummy electrode 331 is approximately 1.5 mm.

[0120] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the heating mechanism 300 further includes:

[0121] The first support member 36 is coupled to the first end 310 of the heater 30 ; the first support member 36 provides support for the heater 30 at the first end 310 . In some embodiments, the first support member 36 is made of an organic polymer plastic. In some embodiments, the first support member 36 can withstand temperatures of at least 300°C. In some embodiments, the first support member 36 is rigid. In some specific embodiments, the first support member 36 is made of at least one organic polymer selected from the group consisting of polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyimide, polyphenylene sulfide, or polysulfone resins.

[0122] according to Figures 2 to 10As shown, the first support member 36 is configured to be annular. In some embodiments, the first end 310 of the heater 30 extends into the first support member 36. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first support member 36 longitudinally abuts the first end 310 of the heater 30 and partially surrounds or encircles the heater 30. In particular embodiments, the first support member 36 at least partially surrounds or engages the spacer region 313. In particular embodiments, the first support member 36 avoids at least one heating element.

[0123] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the first supporting element 36 is annular in shape; a first abutting step 361 is arranged in the first supporting element 36 ; the first end 310 of the heater 30 extends into the first supporting element 36 and longitudinally abuts against the first abutting step 361 .

[0124] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the first support member 36 has a connecting portion, and the connecting portion surrounds or encloses the heater 30 and / or the spacer area 313. During assembly, the first end 310 of the heater 30 passes through the connecting portion of the first support member 36 and abuts against the first abutment step 361. After assembly, the first end 310 of the heater 30 is inserted into the first support member 36 and is firmly combined with the connecting portion. Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the outer surface of the connecting portion is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced pressure relief grooves 363. The pressure relief grooves 363 extend axially along the first support element 36. When the heater 30 is inserted through the connecting portion into the first support element 36, the pressure relief grooves 363 can reduce or lower the strength of the connecting portion. Thus, when the heater 30 is inserted through the connecting portion into the first support element 36, the pressure relief grooves 363 can promote deformation of the portion to be connected, thereby preventing the pressure relief grooves 363 from crushing or breaking the heater 30. In some embodiments, the length of the connecting portion and / or the pressure relief grooves 363 is 0.1 to 3 mm.

[0125] In some embodiments, the first support element 36 and the heater 30 are fastened by riveting or welding, and are hermetically sealed between the first support element 36 and the heater 30. There is no flexible sealing element such as a silicone ring between the first support element 36 and the heater 30.

[0126] In some embodiments, the first support element 36 is securely connected to the heater 30 by welding; in some embodiments, the welding is performed by, for example, ultrasonic welding. During ultrasonic welding of the first support element 36 and the heater 30, a portion of the material of the first support element 36 is ultrasonically melted and coupled to the surface of the heater 30. After cooling and solidification, the first support element 36 and the heater 30 are securely connected and an airtight seal is formed therebetween. In some embodiments, the first support element 36 and the heater 30 are inseparable or non-detachable. In some embodiments, the first support element 36 and the heater 30 are airtightly sealed to prevent air from entering the chamber and / or the heater 30 from between them. There is no gap or clearance between the first support element 36 and the heater 30.

[0127] according to Figure 1 As shown, after assembly, the first support element 36 is located at or adjacent to the opening 40. The opening 40 is surrounded or defined by the first support element 36 for inserting the aerosol-generating article 1000 into the chamber.

[0128] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the heating mechanism 300 further includes:

[0129] The second support member 37 is configured to support the heater 30 at the second end 320 .

[0130] In an embodiment, the second support element 37 is configured in a sheet-like shape. It is molded from a moldable material and is molded around and coupled to the electrical contact element. Consequently, the second support element 37 and the electrical contact element are securely coupled and non-detachable. The electrical contact element longitudinally extends through the second support element 37.

[0131] In some embodiments, the second support member 37 is made of an organic polymer plastic. In some embodiments, the second support member 37 can withstand temperatures of at least 300°C. In some embodiments, the second support member 37 is rigid. In some specific embodiments, the second support member 37 is made of at least one organic polymer selected from the group consisting of polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyimide, polyphenylene sulfide, and polysulfone resins.

[0132] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the second support member 37 is in non-contact with the end wall 330 of the heater 30. Figures 2 to 10 As shown, a first heat insulating element 39 is arranged between the second supporting element 37 and the end wall 330 of the heater 30 , so as to prevent the heat of the heater 30 from being transferred to the second supporting element 37 .

[0133] In an embodiment, the first thermal insulation element 39 is flexible. The flexible first thermal insulation element 39 is at least partially squeezed or compressed by the second support element 37 and the end wall 330 of the heater 30. After assembly, the electrical contact element passes through the first thermal insulation element 39. In an embodiment, the second thermal insulation element 351 is made of a flexible insulating material. In an embodiment, the first thermal insulation element 39 is porous. In an embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the material of the first thermal insulation element 39 is less than 0.02 W / m·K. For example, the first thermal insulation element 39 is aerogel felt.

[0134] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the heating mechanism 300 further includes:

[0135] The second thermal insulation element 351 surrounds and wraps around the exterior of the heater 30, at least partially providing thermal insulation outside the heater 30 and thereby preventing heat transfer from the heater 30. In one embodiment, the second thermal insulation element 351 is wound from a flexible thermal insulation material. In one embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the material of the first thermal insulation element 35 is less than 0.02 W / m·K. For example, the first thermal insulation element 35 is a wound aerogel blanket.

[0136] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the second insulating element 351 is longitudinally held between the first support element 36 and the first insulating element 39. The second insulating element 351 rests on the first insulating element 39.

[0137] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, a longitudinally extending notch 3511 is arranged on the second thermal insulation element 351 .

[0138] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the heating mechanism 300 further includes:

[0139] The temperature sensor 34, such as a thermocouple or PT1000 thermistor sensor, is coupled to the heater 30 by welding or abutment, etc., to sense the temperature of the heater 30. In the assembled structure, when the second thermal insulation member 351 is wrapped around or around the heater 30, the temperature sensor 34 is embedded in or located in the notch 3511.

[0140] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the heating mechanism 300 further includes:

[0141] The third thermal insulation element 352 is arranged around or encloses the second thermal insulation element 351 and / or the heater 30 to further provide thermal insulation outside the second thermal insulation element 351 and / or the heater 30.

[0142] In the embodiment, a cavity 3523 is defined inside the third insulation element 352. Specifically, the third insulation element 352 is configured in a tubular shape and has an inner wall 3521 and an outer wall 3522 arranged sequentially in the radial direction; the cavity 3523 is formed or defined between the inner wall 3521 and the outer wall 3522.

[0143] In some embodiments, the pressure in cavity 3523 is lower than the external pressure, resulting in a vacuum; in this case, third thermal insulation element 352 is a vacuum-insulated tube. Alternatively, in some embodiments, cavity 3523 is filled with dry, pure argon gas. At the same pressure and temperature, its thermal conductivity is approximately one-third lower than that of air, effectively reducing heat transfer to the outside. In some embodiments, the walls of cavity 3523, such as inner wall 3521 and / or outer wall 3522, are made of a rigid material such as stainless steel.

[0144] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, the third thermal insulation element 352 is longitudinally held between the first support element 36 and the second support element 37. A second abutment step 362 is arranged on the outer surface of the first support element 36; the first support element 36 at least partially extends or is inserted into the third thermal insulation element 352, and the upper end of the third thermal insulation element 352 abuts against the second abutment step 362.

[0145] according to Figures 2 to 10 As shown, a third abutting step 371 is arranged on the outer surface of the second supporting element 37 ; the second supporting element 37 at least partially extends into the third thermal insulation element 352 , and the lower end of the third thermal insulation element 352 abuts against the second abutting step 362 .

[0146] In an embodiment, the first support member 36 is at least partially inserted into the third thermal insulation member 352 from the upper end of the third thermal insulation member 352, and the second abutment step 362 is at least partially inserted into the third thermal insulation member 352 from the lower end of the third thermal insulation member 352. In an embodiment, the first support member 36 and / or the second abutment step 362 are engaged with the third thermal insulation member 352 in an interference fit or tight fit.

[0147] It should be noted that the specification and drawings of this application provide preferred embodiments of the present application, but are not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. Furthermore, it is possible for a person skilled 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 this application.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device configured to heat an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol; characterized in that include: A tubular base including a first end and a second end opposite to each other; The aerosol-generating article can be received in or removed from the substrate through the first end; the second end of the substrate is closed and has an end wall located at the second end; the end wall is used for the aerosol-generating article received in the substrate to abut against to form a stop; a heating element formed on or bonded to the tubular sidewall of the substrate for heating the aerosol-generating article received within the substrate; a first supporting element and a second supporting element arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device; The substrate is longitudinally held between the first support element and the second support element; wherein, The first support element is arranged to surround a portion of the base and is coupled to a first end of the base, and is configured to provide support to the base at the first end; the first support element is tightly connected to the base and is airtightly sealed with the base to prevent air from entering the base from between them; The second support element is arranged to provide support to the base by supporting the end wall.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A first thermal insulation element is arranged between the end wall and the second support element to provide thermal insulation between the base and the second support element.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein The first thermal insulation element is flexible; the first thermal insulation element is at least partially squeezed or compressed by the end wall and the second support element.

4. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The first supporting element is substantially annular, and the first end of the base body is inserted into the first supporting element; the first supporting element has a connecting portion, and the connecting portion surrounds and combines with the base body; The outer surface of the connecting portion has a plurality of pressure relief grooves arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction.

5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that Also includes: an electrode for conducting an electric current on the heating element, the electrode having an electrical connection extending from the heating element to the end wall; Battery cells, used for power supply; The circuit board is electrically connected to the electrical connection portion of the electrode, thereby providing the power of the battery core to the heating element.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein Also includes: The conductive electrical contact element at least partially provides a conductive connection between the electrical connection portion and the circuit board.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein The electrical contact element is arranged to extend longitudinally and penetrate the second supporting element.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein The electrical contact element is securely held on the second supporting element.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein: The electrical contact element is elastic; the electrical contact element abuts against the electrical connection portion to conduct electricity with the electrical connection portion, and is at least partially squeezed or compressed by the end wall.

10. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that There is no gap or clearance between the first supporting element and the base; And / or, the first supporting element and the base body are inseparable or non-detachable.

11. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The heating element is spaced apart from the first end, thereby defining a first spacing area between the heating element and the first end on the substrate; the first supporting element is connected to the substrate in the first spacing area and avoids the heating element.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein The heating element includes a first heating element and a second heating element arranged on the substrate at intervals; the second heating element is closer to the second end than the first heating element; The electrode comprises: a first electrode coupled to the first heating element; a second electrode comprising a first segment and a second segment arranged in a longitudinal direction; the first segment being coupled to the first heating element and spaced apart from the first electrode in a circumferential direction of the first heating element; and the second segment being coupled to the second heating element; a third electrode and a fourth electrode coupled to the second heating element at intervals along the circumferential direction of the second heating element and spaced apart from the second segment of the second electrode in the circumferential direction of the second heating element; Battery cells, used for power supply; The circuit connects at least two of the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode to the battery cell, thereby providing power from the battery cell to the first heating element and / or the second heating element.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein: The second heating element is non-closed in the circumferential direction and defines a gap that passes through the second heating element in the longitudinal direction; the third electrode is located on a first side of the gap, and the fourth electrode is located on a second side of the gap.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, wherein The first electrode passes through the gap.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein The first electrode has a first electrical connection portion extending to the end wall; and / or the second electrode has a second electrical connection portion extending to the end wall; and / or the third electrode has a third electrical connection portion extending to the end wall; and / or the fourth electrode has a fourth electrical connection portion extending to the end wall; The first electrical connection portion has a shape different from that of the second electrical connection portion and / or the third electrical connection portion and / or the fourth electrical connection portion, so as to provide a shape indication for distinguishing or identifying the first electrical connection portion.

16. A heating mechanism for an aerosol generating device, characterized in that: include: A tubular base, comprising a first end and a second end opposite to each other; the first end is open and the second end is closed; The base has an end wall located at the second end; a heating element formed on or bonded to the tubular sidewall of the substrate; A first supporting element and a second supporting element are arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the heating mechanism; the substrate is longitudinally held between the first supporting element and the second supporting element; wherein, The first supporting element is arranged to surround a portion of the base and coupled to a first end of the base, and is configured to provide support to the base at the first end; The second support element is arranged to provide support to the base by supporting the end wall.

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