Aerosol-generating system

Abstract

The present application proposes an aerosol-generating system comprising: a display configured to provide a visual indication associated with operation or use of the aerosol-generating system; the display comprises a light emitting side and a backlight side which are opposite to each other; a light source; the light guide plate is provided with a first surface facing the light emitting side, a second surface deviating from the first surface, and at least one or more side surfaces located between the first surface and the second surface; the at least one or more side surfaces are arranged to be light incident surfaces, and the first surface defines a light exit surface; a plurality of recessed light guide structures are arranged on the second surface, and the second surface is configured to guide light incident from the light incident surface towards the first surface. When the aerosol generating system is used, light emitted by the side light source is guided towards the light emitting side through the light guide plate, so that uniform display is formed in the whole display area in the display; compared with a display which vertically emits light through array-arranged light sources, the number of the light sources can be reduced, and a richer visual effect is achieved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of non-combustion aerosol generating technology, and in particular to an aerosol generating system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, and the like, burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide products that release compounds without burning.

[0003] Examples of such products are heat-not-burn devices that release compounds by heating, rather than burning, a material. For example, the material can be tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which can or can not contain nicotine. As another example, there are aerosol provision devices, such as so-called aerosol-generating systems, which can form an aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a solid substrate of tobacco or non-tobacco, or a liquid substrate of tobacco or non-tobacco, or the like. Known aerosol-generating systems are provided with a display screen for providing a visual indication to a user of a use or operating status of the aerosol-generating system; typically the display screen employs a plurality of light sources, such as LED light sources, arranged in an array or matrix, which emit light directly towards a light exit surface normal to the display screen, thereby providing the required light emission to satisfy the entire display screen operating. SUMMARY

[0004] One embodiment of the present application provides an aerosol-generating system for providing an aerosol; characterized in that it comprises:

[0005] a display configured to provide a visual indication associated with an operating or use of the aerosol-generating system; the display comprising:

[0006] a light exit side facing or proximate to an outer surface of the aerosol-generating system, and a back light side facing away from the light exit side;

[0007] a light source for emitting light;

[0008] a light guide plate having a first surface facing the light exit side, a second surface facing away from the first surface, and at least one or more side surfaces between the first and second surfaces; the at least one or more side surfaces of the light guide plate being arranged to be a light entry surface for the light emitted by the light source to enter the light guide plate; the first surface defining a light exit surface of the light guide plate; the second surface being arranged with a plurality of recessed light guide structures configured to direct light incident from the light entry surface towards the first surface.

[0009] In some embodiments, the plurality of recessed light guide structures are arranged in an array on the second surface.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least part of the inner surface of the recessed light guide structure is inclined.

[0011] In some embodiments, the recessed light guide structure is at least one of a semi-spherical shape, a conical shape, a triangular pyramid shape, or a polygonal pyramid shape.

[0012] In some embodiments, the recessed depth of the recessed light guide structure is less than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the light guide plate;

[0013] In some embodiments, the thickness of the light guide plate is between 0.3mm and 5mm;

[0014] In some embodiments, the recessed depth of the recessed light guide structure is between 0.75mm and 1.5mm.

[0015] In some embodiments, the pitch between adjacent recessed light guide structures is greater than the maximum width or diameter of the opening of the recessed light guide structure on the second surface;

[0016] In some embodiments, the maximum width or diameter of the opening of the recessed light guide structure on the second surface is between 0.05mm and 0.15mm;

[0017] In some embodiments, the pitch between adjacent recessed light guide structures is between 0.2mm and 0.4mm.

[0018] In some embodiments, the distribution density of the recessed light guide structure on the second surface is between 10 and 40 per square millimeter.

[0019] In some embodiments, the recessed light guide structure is uniformly distributed on the second surface;

[0020] Alternatively, the distribution density of the recessed light guide structure on the second surface is varied.

[0021] In some embodiments, the display further comprises:

[0022] a reflective element disposed between the light guide plate and the backlight side and configured to reflect light transmitted from the second surface of the light guide plate toward the backlight side.

[0023] In some embodiments, the reflective element is a diffuse reflective element;

[0024] In some embodiments, the reflective element is a non-specular reflection.

[0025] In some embodiments, the display further comprises:

[0026] A light uniformization element is arranged between the light guide plate and the light exit side and is configured to improve the brightness and / or viewing angle of light emitted by the light exit surface of the light guide plate.

[0027] In some embodiments, further comprising:

[0028] A stray light shielding element is arranged between the light uniformization element and the light exit side; the stray light shielding element is used to shield stray light emitted through the light uniformization element towards the light exit side and surround and define a displayable area of the display.

[0029] In some embodiments, further comprising:

[0030] A heater configured to heat an aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol;

[0031] An electric core for providing electric power;

[0032] A main circuit board configured to control the electric core to supply power to the heater;

[0033] The display further comprises:

[0034] A sub-circuit board electrically connected to the main circuit board; the light source is arranged on the sub-circuit board and can be controlled by the sub-circuit board to emit light.

[0035] In some embodiments, the display is flexible; and / or, the display is curved or curved.

[0036] The above aerosol generating system, in use, guides the light emitted by the side light source towards the light exit side through the light guide plate, thereby forming a uniform display in the display throughout the display area; compared with a display that emits light vertically through arrayed light sources, the number of light sources can be saved and the visual effect is more abundant. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0037] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example in the drawings in which like reference numerals indicate like elements, and in which:

[0038] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment;

[0039] Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a display module according to an embodiment; Figure 1

[0040] Figure 3 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a display module according to another embodiment; ​

[0041] Figure 4 Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display module according to one embodiment;

[0042] Figure 5 Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the exploded view of the display module of Figure 1 before assembly; Figure 4

[0043] Figure 6 Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the light guide plate having an array of recesses in the display module of Figure 1 ; Figure 5

[0044] Figure 7 Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the second surface of the light guide plate having an array of recesses of varying density in the display module of Figure 1 ; Figure 5

[0045] Figure 8 Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the light intensity distribution of light emitted from the first surface of the light guide plate of Figure 4 when the second surface is arranged with an array of recesses of varying density;

[0046] Figure 9 Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the light intensity distribution of light emitted from the first surface of the light guide plate of Figure 5 when the second surface is arranged with an array of recesses of varying density;

[0047] Figure 10 Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a circuit board having light sources arranged on both sides in another embodiment;

[0048] Figure 11 Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a circuit board having light sources arranged on only one side in another embodiment;

[0049] Figure 12 Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a circuit board having light sources arranged on only one side in another embodiment;

[0050] Figure 13 Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the reflective structure of the reflective surface of a diffuse reflective element in one embodiment. Figure 4 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] For the purposes of the present application, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings and detailed description. The drawings and detailed description are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which the application can be made and implemented.

[0052] One embodiment of the present application proposes an aerosol-generating system for heating an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0053] ​​​​In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating system is arranged to be capable of generating an aerosol by heating a solid aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the solid aerosol-forming substrate can comprise one or more of a powder, granules, shreds, strips, or flakes of one or more of tobacco material, such as tobacco leaf, homogenized tobacco, expanded tobacco; or the solid aerosol-forming substrate can comprise other solid materials in place of tobacco material, such as tea leaf, dried flowers, herbal material, etc.; or the solid aerosol-forming substrate can contain additional volatile flavour compounds, either tobacco or non-tobacco, to be released when the solid aerosol-forming substrate is heated. And, the Applicant provides constructional and implementation details of the aerosol-generating system for heating a solid aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol in the Chinese patent application CN114642278A, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0054] In yet other embodiments, the aerosol-generating system is arranged to generate an aerosol from a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a liquid such as glycerol or propylene glycol; which vaporizes to generate an inhalable aerosol when heated.

[0055] For example Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an aerosol-generating system 100 of one embodiment is shown, including several components disposed within an outer body or housing. The overall design of the outer body or housing can vary, and the version or configuration of the outer body that defines the overall size and shape of the aerosol-generating system 100 can vary.

[0056] In some embodiments, the outer body or housing of the aerosol-generating system 100 substantially defines the outer surface of the aerosol-generating system 100; in some examples, all or only a portion of the outer body or housing can be formed from a metal or alloy such as stainless steel, aluminum, or other suitable material including various plastics (e.g., polycarbonate), metal-plating over plastic, ceramic, and the like.

[0057] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating system 100 is further arranged with:

[0058] a heater for heating a liquid aerosol-forming substrate and / or a solid aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol; the heater can comprise at least one of an electrical resistance heater, an electromagnetic heater, an infrared heater, a microwave heater, etc.;

[0059] an electric core for supplying power;

[0060] a main circuit board arranged or integrated with a control circuit; the main circuit board is arranged with an MCU controller and configured to control the electric core to output power to the heater.

[0061] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol generation system 100 includes:

[0062] Display 200, such as an LED display, is used to provide visual indications in connection with the operation or use of the aerosol generation system 100.

[0063] For example, in some embodiments, the relevant information displayed on the display 200 may include the current charge level of the battery cells in the aerosol generation system 100. In other embodiments, the relevant information displayed on the display 200 may include whether the battery cells in the aerosol generation system 100 are charging or the charging current / power, etc. In other embodiments, the relevant information displayed on the display 200 may include the TPM value of the current aspiration action or the duration of the current aspiration action. In other embodiments, the relevant information displayed on the display 200 may include the number of aspirations performed by the user within a predetermined time, the frequency, etc. In other embodiments, the relevant information displayed on the display 200 may include the consumption or remaining amount of the liquid aerosol forming matrix and / or the solid aerosol forming matrix.

[0064] In this embodiment, the display 200 is exposed or visible on the external body or casing of the aerosol generation system 100. Therefore, during use, the user can obtain information prompts from the display 200.

[0065] In some embodiments, according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the display 200 is substantially planar, for example, a substantially planar display screen. Furthermore, after assembly, one display 200 may be arranged on one surface of the aerosol generation system 100; or, multiple displays 200 may be discretely arranged on multiple surfaces of the aerosol generation system 100.

[0066] In some other embodiments, according to Figure 3 As shown, the display 200a is substantially curved, for example, a substantially curved screen. Furthermore, a display 200a is bendable or rollable; after assembly, a display 200a can extend from one surface of the aerosol generation system 100 to another surface. For example, in Figure 3 As shown, the display 200a can extend circumferentially from one side surface of the aerosol generation system 100 to the opposite side surface.

[0067] In one embodiment, according to Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the display 200 achieves uniform display across the entire display area by arranging light sources, such as LED light sources, around or at least on one side, and by dispersing the light evenly across the entire display area of ​​the display 200 through a light guide plate 270 and a light-diffusing element 282 before outputting it toward the light-emitting side 210.

[0068] In embodiments according to Figures 4 to 7 As shown in FIG. 2, the display 200 comprises:

[0069] opposite light-out side 210 and backlight side 220; in general, in an optically displayed product, the light-out side 210 is the side from which the light providing the display is emitted towards the user / display panel, and the backlight side 220 is the other side opposite to the light-out side 210. After assembly, the light-out side 210 is towards or proximate to the outer surface of the aerosol-generating system 100. In embodiments, the light-out side 210 and the backlight side 220 are opposite along the thickness direction of the display 200.

[0070] In embodiments according to Figures 4 to 7 As shown in FIG. 2, the display 200 comprises:

[0071] opposite first side 230 and second side 240 along the width direction.

[0072] In embodiments according to Figures 4 to 7 As shown in FIG. 2, the display 200 further comprises:

[0073] at least one or more light sources arranged around the perimeter of the display 200, for example, a plurality of first light sources 261 proximate to or arranged at the first side 230 of the display 200 along the width direction, and / or a plurality of second light sources 262 proximate to or arranged at the second side 240 of the display 200 along the width direction.

[0074] In embodiments, the light sources, for example, the plurality of first light sources 261 and the plurality of second light sources 262, are point light sources; in some specific embodiments, the first light sources 261 and / or the second light sources 262 are point light sources, for example, LED light sources, light bulbs, etc. Alternatively, in yet some other embodiments, the light sources, for example, the first light sources 261 and / or the second light sources 262, are line light sources; for example, LED light tubes, etc.

[0075] In some embodiments, the light sources, for example, the plurality of first light sources 261 and the plurality of second light sources 262, are point light sources emitting light in the visible light range of 400nm-760nm, for example, red light, blue light, yellow light, etc., which are advantageous for visual cues to the user. Alternatively, in yet some other embodiments, the light sources can emit non-visible light, for example, ultraviolet light in the range of 10nm-400nm, infrared light in the range of 760nm-1000nm, etc.

[0076] In embodiments, the light sources are side light sources. Then, in use, the light emitted by the first light sources 261 is towards the second side 240, rather than directly towards the light-out side 210; and, the light emitted by the second light sources 262 is towards the first side 230, rather than towards the light-out side 210.

[0077] In embodiments according toFigures 4 to 7 As shown, the display 200 further comprises:

[0078] The sub-circuit board 250 is a control circuit board within the display 200, for controlling the display 200 to work. In embodiments, the sub-circuit board 250 is at least for supporting or fixing or holding the light sources, such as the plurality of first light sources 261 and the plurality of second light sources 262, and controlling the light sources, such as the plurality of first light sources 261 and the plurality of second light sources 262, to emit light.

[0079] In embodiments, the sub-circuit board 250 can be a PCB board or a FPC board; in preferred embodiments, the sub-circuit board 250 is a flexible FPC board, which is advantageous for making the display 200 to be flexible and rollable. In embodiments, the first light sources 261 and the second light sources 262, which are LED light sources, are directly fixed and mounted on the sub-circuit board 250 by means of SMT (Surface Mount Technology) soldering.

[0080] In some embodiments, the light sources can also be arranged at more side edges of the display 200; for example, in more embodiments, the light sources can comprise at least three or four side edges of the substantially square display 200; so that in use, the display 200 can be adapted to more display requirements, such as realizing visualization display of up to 1.6M kinds of light spectrum.

[0081] According to Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the sub-circuit board 250 is arranged in a substantially U-shaped shape. In embodiments, the sub-circuit board 250 comprises:

[0082] The first extension 252 is proximate or arranged at the first side 230 in the width direction and extends along the length direction of the display 200; the plurality of first light sources 261 are arranged at intervals on the first extension 252;

[0083] The second extension 253 is proximate or arranged at the second side 240 in the width direction and extends along the length direction of the display 200; the plurality of second light sources 262 are arranged at intervals on the second extension 253;

[0084] The base 251 extends along the width direction and extends from the first extension 252 to the second extension 253; the base 251 is arranged proximate to one side of the length direction of the display 200.

[0085] According to Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the sub-circuit board 250 is defined with a relief 256, which is particularly defined by the first extension 252, the second extension 253 and the base 251; the relief 256 is open on the side away from the base 251.

[0086] According to Figures 4 to 7As shown, the base 251 is mainly for connecting to the main circuit board of the aerosol generating system 100; and, the base 251 is arranged with an extended electrical connection portion 254. In some embodiments, the electrical connection portion 254 is extended from the base 251 along the width direction, and is protruding; for example, in Figure 5 In the shown embodiment, the electrical connection portion 254 is protruding at the second side 240. The electrical connection portion 254 is arranged with electrical connection areas 255, for example in the form of pad points. In assembly, the sub-circuit board 250 is electrically connected to the main circuit board of the aerosol generating system 100 by soldering wires or the like through the electrical connection areas 255.

[0087] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the electrical connection portion 254 is arranged on the first side 230 of the base 251. Figure 10 In yet another embodiment, as shown, the base 251a of the sub-circuit board 250a is arranged with an extended electrical connection portion 254a; the electrical connection portion 254a is arranged with electrical connection areas 255a, for example pad points or the like, for electrically connecting the sub-circuit board 250a to the main circuit board of the aerosol generating system 100. Figure 10 In the shown embodiment, the first extension portion 252a is arranged near the first side 230 and extends from the base 251a along the length direction; the second extension portion 253a is arranged near the second side 240 and extends from the base 251a along the length direction. The first extension portion 252a is arranged with a plurality of spaced first light sources 261a; the second extension portion 253a is arranged with a plurality of spaced second light sources 262a.

[0088] According to Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the display 200 further comprises:

[0089] A light guide plate 270, which is substantially thin and in the form of a sheet or a plate; for example, the light guide plate 270 can be a light guide sheet or a light guide plate. In some embodiments, the light guide plate 270 is made of optical materials such as acrylic (PMMA) or polycarbonate (PC), optical glass or quartz.

[0090] In embodiments, the light guide plate 270 can be in the form of a rectangle. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the light guide plate 270 can have more shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, a polygon, etc.

[0091] In embodiments, the light sources such as the plurality of first light sources 261 and the plurality of second light sources 262 are arranged at the length or width sides of the light guide plate 270; for example, the plurality of first light sources 261 are arranged between the light guide plate 270 and the first side 230, and the plurality of second light sources 262 are arranged between the light guide plate 270 and the second side 240. Alternatively, the light guide plate 270 is arranged between the first light sources 261 and the second light sources 262. After assembly, the light guide plate 270 is abutted against the sub-circuit board 250; and, the sub-circuit board 250 is arranged between the light guide plate 270 and the backlight side 220.

[0092] In embodiments, the light guide plate 270 has a first surface 272 facing the light exit side 210, and a second surface 273 facing away from the first surface 272. In embodiments, the first surface 272 of the light guide plate 270 is substantially smooth or flat; the second surface 273 of the light guide plate 270 is provided with a plurality of recessed light guide structures 271; such that in use, the light guide plate 270 can conduct light injected from the side by the light source towards the first surface 272. Specifically according to Figure 5 the light injected from the side by the light source into the light guide plate 270, a portion thereof is directly emitted towards the first surface 272 as indicated by arrow R11 in Figure 5 the light injected from the side by the light source into the light guide plate 270, a portion thereof is directly emitted towards the first surface 272 as indicated by arrow R11 in Figure 5 the light injected from the side by the light source into the light guide plate 270, a portion thereof is directly emitted towards the first surface 272 as indicated by arrow R11 in

[0093] In embodiments, at least one or more side surfaces of the light guide plate 270 form or define a light entrance surface for light to enter the light guide plate 270. In use, the light guide plate 270 directs light provided by the light source, e.g. the first light source 261 and the second light source 262, towards the light exit side 210. In embodiments, at least one of the side surfaces of the light guide plate 270 is arranged opposite to the light source, e.g. the first light source 261 and the second light source 262.

[0094] In some embodiments, the light source, e.g. the plurality of first light sources 261 and the plurality of second light sources 262, is non-contact and has a gap with the light entrance surface of the light guide plate 270. The gap between the light source and the light entrance surface of the light guide plate 270 is less than 1 mm, such that it is advantageous for the light emitted by the light source to be injected into the light guide plate 270 in the largest amount. In some embodiments, the gap between the light source and the light guide plate 270 is less than 0.5 mm. In some more preferred embodiments, the light source can be directly attached to the light entrance surface of the light guide plate 270.

[0095] In embodiments, the light exit surface of the light guide plate 270 is defined by the first surface 272 of the light guide plate 270 facing the light exit side 210. Light incident into the light guide plate 270 from the light entrance surface of the light guide plate 270 is emitted from the first surface 272 / light exit surface. The light entrance surface of the light guide plate 270 and the light exit surface defined by the first surface 272 are perpendicular; or, the light entrance surface and the light exit surface of the light guide plate 270 are non-parallel.

[0096] In embodiments, the recessed light guide structures 271 can be semi-spherical, conical, triangular pyramidal or polygonal pyramidal, etc.; at least part of the inner surface of the recessed light guide structures 271 is inclined, rather than vertical.

[0097] In embodiments, the recessed light guide structure 271 has a recessed depth d12 that is less than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the light guide plate 270; in more preferred embodiments, the recessed light guide structure 271 has a recessed depth d12 that is less than 1 / 4 of the thickness of the light guide plate 270.

[0098] In some embodiments, the thickness of the light guide plate 270 is typically between 0.3 mm and 5 mm. In some embodiments, the recessed light guide structure 271 has a recessed depth d12 that is between 0.75 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0099] In some embodiments, the recessed light guide structure 271 has a recessed depth d12 that is less than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the light guide plate 270; in more preferred embodiments, the recessed light guide structure 271 has a recessed depth d12 that is less than 1 / 4 of the thickness of the light guide plate 270. Figures 4 to 7 In the embodiment shown, the recessed light guide structure 271 is arranged in an array on the second surface 273 of the light guide plate 270. In the embodiment shown, the recessed light guide structure 271 is arranged in a non-uniform array on the second surface 273 of the light guide plate 270. Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, the recessed light guide structure 271 is substantially uniformly distributed on the second surface 273 of the light guide plate 270.

[0100] In some embodiments, the spacing between adjacent recessed light guide structures 271 on the second surface 273 is greater than the maximum width or diameter d11 of the openings of the recessed light guide structure 271 on the second surface 273. In some embodiments, the maximum width or diameter d11 of the openings of the recessed light guide structure 271 on the second surface 273 can be approximately 0.05 mm to 0.15 mm. In some embodiments, the spacing between adjacent recessed light guide structures 271 on the second surface 273 is between 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm. In one specific embodiment, the diameter d11 of the openings of the recessed light guide structure 271 on the second surface 273 is 0.1 mm; the spacing between adjacent recessed light guide structures 271 on the second surface 273 is 0.3 mm.

[0101] In some embodiments, the distribution density of the arrayed recessed light guide structure 271 on the second surface 273 can be between 10 and 40 per square millimeter. In one specific embodiment, the distribution density of the recessed light guide structure 271 on the second surface 273 is 16 per square millimeter.

[0102] In some embodiments, for example Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, the arrayed recessed light guide structure 271 is uniformly distributed on the second surface 273. In some embodiments, the recessed light guide structure 271 is non-uniformly distributed on the second surface 273. In some embodiments, the distribution density of the arrayed recessed light guide structure 271 on the second surface 273 is related to the uniformity of the light transmitted from the first surface 272. For example, in the embodiment shown, the substantially uniform distribution of the recessed light guide structure 271 on the second surface 273 can result in substantially uniform light transmitted from the first surface 272. Figure 7

[0103] For example, in the embodiment shown, the substantially uniform distribution of the recessed light guide structure 271 on the second surface 273 can result in substantially uniform light transmitted from the first surface 272.​Figure 8 In some embodiments, the distribution pitch and / or density of the recessed light guiding structures 271a on the second surface 273a of the light guide plate 270a varies in the width direction of the light guide plate 270a; for example, in Figure 8 In some embodiments, the distribution pitch and / or density of the recessed light guiding structures 271a on the second surface 273a of the light guide plate 270a varies in the width direction of the light guide plate 270a; for example, in Figure 8 In some embodiments, the intensity of the light emitted from the first surface of the light guide plate 270a varies in the width direction; for example, in Figure 8 In some embodiments, the intensity of the light emitted from the first surface of the light guide plate 270a varies in the width direction; for example, in

[0104] In some embodiments, the intensity of the light emitted from the first surface of the light guide plate 270a varies in the width direction; for example, in Figure 9 In some embodiments, the distribution pitch and / or density of the recessed light guiding structures 271a on the second surface 273a of the light guide plate 270a varies in the width direction of the light guide plate 270a; for example, in Figure 9 In some embodiments, the intensity of the light emitted from the first surface of the light guide plate 270a varies in the width direction; for example, in Figure 9 In some embodiments, the intensity of the light emitted from the first surface of the light guide plate 270a varies in the width direction; for example, in

[0105] According to Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the display 200 further comprises:

[0106] A reflective element 281 is arranged between the light guide plate 270 and the backlight side 220. The reflective element 281 is arranged to be thin and sheet-like or plate-like. The reflective element 281 is configured to reflect the light transmitted from the second surface 273 of the light guide plate 270 towards the backlight side 220, to improve the utilization of the light. In particular, according to Figure 4 As shown, the light emitted from the light source, for example the first light source 261 and / or the second light source 262, is not completely guided in the light guide plate 270 towards the first surface 272, but some of the light is transmitted from the second surface 273 towards the backlight side 220 through the gaps between the adjacent recessed light guiding structures 271; then the reflective element 281 can reflect the light transmitted from the second surface 273 towards the backlight side 220, as shown by the arrow R2 in Figure 4

[0107] In some embodiments, the reflective element 281 is made of a material with good light reflecting effect, for example silver, or a material with good diffusivity, for example polycarbonate (PC), polytetrafluoroethylene, etc.

[0108] ​In some embodiments, the cutout 256 of the sub-circuit board 250 provides a path for the light emitted from the second surface 273 of the light guide plate 270 to propagate to the reflective element 281, so as to avoid blocking or absorbing the light emitted from the second surface 273 of the light guide plate 270.

[0109] In embodiments, the reflective element 281 is a diffuse reflective element for diffusely reflecting the light transmitted to the reflective surface 2811 of the reflective element 281. In one aspect, the light transmitted from the light guide plate 270 is diffusely reflected so that the light emitted by the light source is utilized as much as possible; in another aspect, the reflected light formed by the diffuse reflection is diffusely emitted in different directions, which is advantageous for improving the uniformity of the emitted light.

[0110] Wherein, "diffuse reflection" is an optical term, which refers to the phenomenon that light is irregularly reflected in all directions by a rough surface. In embodiments, the reflective element 281 has a diffuse reflection surface facing the light emitting side 210. In embodiments, the diffuse reflection surface of the reflective element 281 is a rough surface with unevenness, so that the light reflected by the reflective element 281 can be diffusely emitted in different directions towards the light emitting side 210.

[0111] For example Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the diffuse reflection surface 2811 of the reflective element 281 in an embodiment is shown; in embodiments, the diffuse reflection surface 2811 can be arranged with a plurality of raised diffuse reflection patterns 2812 formed by surface treatment. In some embodiments, the raised diffuse reflection patterns 2812 can be regular or irregular patterns; for example, in some embodiments, the raised diffuse reflection patterns 2812 can be formed in the shape of a cross, a star, a triangle, a trapezoid, a circle, etc.; or, the raised diffuse reflection patterns 2812 can also be conical protrusions.

[0112] In some embodiments, the surface of the reflective element 281 facing the backlight side 220 is arranged with a light shielding material, such as a black matte film or coating, etc., to absorb or block the light that is not reflected by the reflective element 281, so that the display 200 does not emit light at the backlight side 220.

[0113] According to Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the display 200 further comprises:

[0114] A light homogenizing element 282 is arranged between the light guide plate 270 and the light emitting side 210; in use, the light emitted from the first surface 272 of the light guide plate 270 propagates towards the light emitting side 210 via the light homogenizing element 282, so that the display 200 can give a substantially uniform brightness at the light emitting side 210. Thus, in embodiments, the light homogenizing element 282 is configured to improve the brightness and / or viewing angle of the light emitted by the light emitting surface of the light guide plate 270.

[0115] In an embodiment, the light uniformizing element 282 is an optical element capable of uniformly scattering the emitted light. In an embodiment, the light uniformizing element 282 is, for example, a light uniformizing plate or a light uniformizing sheet. In some embodiments, the light uniformizing element 282 is made of optical grade polymers such as optical grade acrylic, polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc. These optical grade polymer materials have good light transmittance and uniformity, which can ensure the light to be improved in uniformity when passing through the light uniformizing element 282.

[0116] According to Figures 4 to 7 As shown in FIG. 2, the display 200 further comprises:

[0117] A stray light shielding element 283 is arranged between the light uniformizing element 282 and the light emitting side 210. In Figures 4 to 7 In an embodiment, the stray light shielding element 283 is configured to be in the shape of a ring or a frame with a central hole 2831. In an embodiment, the stray light shielding element 283 is light-tight; for example, the stray light shielding element 283 can be made of light-tight plastic, metal, or oxide, etc.

[0118] In the present disclosure, "stray light" is an optical term referring to the unwanted radiation light that interferes with the intended display function of the optical system, i.e. the display 200. In the optical system of the display 200, the stray light can be formed by the non-uniform spectrum caused by the cross-halation between the plurality of light sources, or the light spot or the shadow, etc. unintended display content formed by the edge portion of the elements of the display 200 during the gluing or packaging, etc.

[0119] In an embodiment, the stray light shielding element 283 is used to shield the stray light emitted through the light uniformizing element 282 towards the light emitting side 210. Specifically in the arrangement, the stray light shielding element 283 in the shape of a ring or a frame is arranged to cover the light sources and the edge of the light uniformizing element 282. In use, the displayable area of the display 200 at the light emitting side 210 is defined by the central hole 2831 of the stray light shielding element 283.

[0120] In some embodiments, the display 200 can also have light sources located at only one side. For example, in Figure 11 FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the light sources 261b arranged on the secondary circuit board 250b of the display 200 in another embodiment; in this embodiment, the secondary circuit board 250b is in the shape of a long strip extending longitudinally; after assembly, the secondary circuit board 250b can be arranged at the first side 230 or the second side 240 of the display 200, so that the secondary circuit board 250b is located at one side of the light guide plate 270 for light emission. The light sources 261b, for example, LED light sources, are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the secondary circuit board 250b.

[0121] In Figure 11In the shown embodiment, the sub-circuit board 250b is arranged with an electrical connection portion 254b extending in the width direction; the electrical connection portion 254b is arranged with an electrical connection area 255b such as a soldering pad for connecting the sub-circuit board 250b to the main circuit board of the aerosol generating system 100.

[0122] Alternatively Figure 12 A schematic diagram showing a plurality of light sources 261b such as LED light sources arranged on the elongated sub-circuit board 250c of yet another embodiment at intervals; in this embodiment, the sub-circuit board 250c has an electrical connection portion 254c formed by reducing the width at one end in the longitudinal direction; the electrical connection portion 254c is arranged with an electrical connection area 255c such as a soldering pad for connecting the sub-circuit board 250c to the main circuit board of the aerosol generating system 100.

[0123] In some embodiments, the display 200 is flexible and thus coiled. Specifically in embodiments, the light homogenizing element 282, the light guide plate 270 and the reflecting element 281 of the display 200 are flexible and thus form a flexible and coiled display 200 after manufacturing.

[0124] In some embodiments, the components of the display 200 are fastened together, for example, the display 200 can be filled and bonded with glue, transparent double-sided tape or the like at the edge gaps between the components, so that the components of the display 200 are connected and fastened together.

[0125] In Figures 4 to 7 In the shown embodiment, the light source such as the first light source 261 / second light source 262 and the light guide plate 270 are clamped or held between the sheet-shaped light homogenizing element 282 and the sheet-shaped reflecting element 281.

[0126] In Figures 4 to 7 In the shown embodiment, the light source such as the first light source 261 / second light source 262 is soldered on the circuit board 250. In Figures 4 to 7 In the shown embodiment, the circuit board 250 is clamped between the light guide plate 270 and the reflecting element 281. Alternatively in yet some embodiments, the frame-shaped or strip-shaped circuit board 250 is arranged on the outer side of the light guide plate 270 and away from the light guide plate 270, and accordingly the circuit board 250 can be clamped between the light homogenizing element 282 and the sheet-shaped reflecting element 281.

[0127] In some embodiments, the circuit board 250 and the sheet-shaped reflecting element 281 can be bonded and fastened together by a highly transparent double-sided tape. Similarly, the circuit board 250 and the light homogenizing element 282 can be bonded and fastened together by glue or a highly transparent double-sided tape.

[0128] In Figure 4After the assembly state shown, the display 200 can further include:

[0129] An external holding frame or support or the like holds and fixes the components of the display 200 from the outside, thereby fastening them as a whole.

[0130] It is to be noted that the specification and drawings of the present application give a preferred embodiment of the present application, but are not limited to the embodiments described in the specification, and further, those of ordinary skill in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should be within the scope of the claims attached to the present application.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating system for providing an aerosol; characterised in that, The display comprises: a display configured to provide a visual indication associated with operation or use of the aerosol-generating system; the display comprises: a light-outgoing side facing or close to an outer surface of the aerosol-generating system, and a light-incident side facing away from the light-outgoing side; a light source for emitting light; a light guide plate having a first surface facing the light-outgoing side, a second surface facing away from the first surface, and at least one or more side surfaces between the first surface and the second surface; the at least one or more side surfaces are arranged to be light-incident surfaces for the light emitted by the light source to enter the light guide plate; the first surface defines a light-outgoing surface of the light guide plate; the second surface is arranged with a plurality of recessed light guide structures and is configured to guide light incident from the light-incident surface towards the first surface.

2. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of recessed light guide structures are arranged in an array on the second surface.

3. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least part of the inner surface of the recessed light guide structure is inclined.

4. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The recessed light guide structure is at least one of hemispherical, conical, triangular pyramidal or polygonal pyramidal.

5. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The recessed depth of the recessed light guide structure is less than 1 / 2 of the thickness of the light guide plate; and / or, the thickness of the light guide plate is between 0.3mm and 5mm; and / or, the recessed depth of the recessed light guide structure is between 0.75mm and 1.5mm.

6. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The pitch between adjacent recessed light guide structures is greater than the maximum width or diameter of the opening of the recessed light guide structure on the second surface; and / or, the maximum width or diameter of the opening of the recessed light guide structure on the second surface is between 0.05mm and 0.15mm; and / or, the pitch between adjacent recessed light guide structures is between 0.2mm and 0.4mm.

7. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The distribution density of the recessed light guide structures on the second surface is between 10 and 40 per square millimeter.

8. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 2, wherein, The recessed light guide structures are uniformly distributed on the second surface; Alternatively, the distribution density of the recessed light guide structures on the second surface is varied.

9. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The display further comprises: a reflective element arranged between the light guide plate and the light-incident side and configured to reflect light transmitted from the second surface of the light guide plate towards the light-incident side.

10. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 9, wherein, The reflective element is a diffuse reflective element; and / or, the reflective element is a non-specular reflective element.

11. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The display further comprises: a light homogenizing element arranged between the light guide plate and the light-outgoing side and configured to improve the brightness and / or viewing angle of light emitted by the light-outgoing surface of the light guide plate.

12. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 11, wherein, Further comprising: a stray light shielding element arranged between the light homogenizing element and the light-outgoing side; the stray light shielding element is configured to shield stray light emitted through the light homogenizing element towards the light-outgoing side and to surround and define a displayable area of the display.

13. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Further comprising: a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol; an electric core for providing electric power; a main circuit board configured to control the electric core to supply power to the heater; The display further comprises: a sub-circuit board electrically connected to the main circuit board; the light source is arranged on the sub-circuit board and can be controlled by the sub-circuit board to emit light.

14. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The display is flexible; and / or, the display is curved or curved. The display is flexible; and / or, the display is curved or curved.

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