Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of aerosol generation, and provides aerosol generation equipment which comprises an aerosol generation unit arranged in the aerosol generation equipment and used for placing an aerosol matrix and generating aerosol by heating the aerosol matrix; the residual substance accommodating unit is arranged below the aerosol generating unit in a manner of moving up and down, is connected with the aerosol generating unit, and is used for receiving and accommodating residual substances of the aerosol generating unit; the magnet is arranged at the bottom of the residual substance storage unit and moves downwards synchronously in the process that the residual substance storage unit moves downwards due to increase of residual substances; the Hall sensor is arranged below the magnet and is used for outputting a corresponding Hall voltage signal when detecting that the magnetic field intensity of the magnet reaches the preset intensity; and the controller is connected with the Hall sensor and is used for feeding back cleaning prompt information if the Hall sensor outputs the Hall voltage signal.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application belongs to the technical field of aerosol generation, and more particularly relates to an aerosol generating device. BACKGROUND

[0002] The aerosol generating device uses a heating non-combustion mechanism to realize atomization of the substrate. The gas remaining after heating gradually cools into an adherent and is deposited at the bottom of the cleaning box. During the process of pulling and inserting, a small amount of residual material of the aerosol substrate also falls to the bottom of the cleaning box. If the cleaning box is not cleaned for a long time, it will seriously affect the atomization experience of the user and the service life of the device.

[0003] Currently, some aerosol generating devices provide a cleaning brush or cleaning cotton at the time of delivery and suggest that the user clean regularly. However, the user cannot clearly know the pollution condition of the cleaning box, and there is a phenomenon of less cleaning or more cleaning, which leads to that the cleaning condition of the aerosol generating device cannot be automatically sensed and the cleaning efficiency is low. CONTENT OF THE UTILITY MODEL

[0004] The purpose of the embodiments of the present application is to provide an aerosol generating device, which aims to solve the technical problem that the cleaning condition of the aerosol generating device in the prior art cannot be automatically sensed and the cleaning efficiency is low.

[0005] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, according to a first aspect of the present application, an aerosol generating device is provided, which comprises:

[0006] An aerosol generating unit is arranged inside the aerosol generating device, used for placing an aerosol substrate and generating an aerosol by heating the aerosol substrate;

[0007] A residual material receiving unit is arranged below the aerosol generating unit and connected to the aerosol generating unit, used for receiving and containing the residual material of the aerosol generating unit;

[0008] A magnet is arranged at the bottom of the residual material receiving unit and synchronously moves downward during the process of moving downward of the residual material receiving unit due to the increase of the residual material;

[0009] A Hall sensor is arranged below the magnet and used for outputting a corresponding Hall voltage signal when the magnetic field strength of the magnet is detected to reach a preset strength;

[0010] A controller is connected to the Hall sensor and used for feeding back a cleaning prompt information if the Hall voltage signal is outputted by the Hall sensor, wherein the cleaning prompt information is used for indicating a cleaning process of the residual material receiving unit.

[0011] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0012] Two spring buffer assemblies are arranged below the residual substance storage unit, and are used to provide buffering and shock absorption functions for the residual substance storage unit through expansion and contraction during the process of the residual substance storage unit driving the magnet to move downward.

[0013] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, one end of each spring buffer assembly is connected to the bottom of the residual substance storage unit, and at least one of welding, bolt connection or buckling is used for the connection; the other end of each spring buffer assembly is fixed on a support structure inside the aerosol generating device.

[0014] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0015] A mechanical lock is connected to the controller, and is used to lock or unlock the aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating device in the locked state is in a locked state.

[0016] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0017] A display screen is arranged on the shell of the aerosol generating device, and is connected to the controller, and is used to show the cleaning prompt information to the user.

[0018] A buzzer is arranged inside the aerosol generating device, and is connected to the controller, and is used to output the cleaning prompt information in the form of sound alarm.

[0019] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0020] A state indicating lamp is arranged on the shell of the aerosol generating device, and is connected to the controller, and is used to show the cleaning prompt information in the form of light color or flickering state.

[0021] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0022] A communication module is arranged inside the aerosol generating device, and is connected to the controller, and is used to send the cleaning prompt information to other terminal devices of the user.

[0023] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0024] A key is connected to the controller, and is used to receive the start heating instruction input by the user.

[0025] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0026] The battery assembly is arranged inside the aerosol generating device, and is connected with each component in the aerosol generating device through a power line, and is connected with an external power supply through a charging interface, and is used to convert the electric energy obtained from the external power supply into the voltage and current used by each component.

[0027] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the first aspect, the aerosol generating device further includes:

[0028] The battery power detection circuit is connected with the battery assembly and the controller, and is used to detect the remaining power of the battery assembly in real time.

[0029] The present application provides an aerosol generating device, which comprises: an aerosol generating unit arranged inside the aerosol generating device, used for placing aerosol substrate and generating aerosol by heating the aerosol substrate; a residual material receiving unit movably arranged below the aerosol generating unit and connected with the aerosol generating unit, used for receiving and containing the residual material of the aerosol generating unit; a magnet arranged at the bottom of the residual material receiving unit, which synchronously moves downward during the process of the residual material receiving unit moving downward due to the increase of the residual material; a Hall sensor arranged below the magnet, used for outputting a corresponding Hall voltage signal when the magnetic field strength of the magnet is detected to reach a preset strength; and a controller connected with the Hall sensor, used for feeding back a cleaning prompt information if the Hall voltage signal is outputted by the Hall sensor.

[0030] The present application shows that the downward movement of the residual material receiving unit is converted into a detectable electrical signal change through the cooperation of the magnet and the Hall sensor. This detection method has high accuracy and can accurately reflect the accumulation of residual material, avoiding the problems of untimely cleaning or excessive cleaning caused by inaccurate detection. Moreover, the overall structure of this scheme is relatively simple, compared with some complex weight detection or optical detection schemes, reducing the number of components and system complexity. At the same time, since the Hall sensor and magnet and other components have stable performance and are less affected by external environment, the detection reliability is improved. Timely and accurate cleaning prompt information enables users to clearly understand the cleaning needs of the device, avoiding the influence of excessive residual material on the generation quality of aerosol. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0031] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application, the following will briefly introduce the drawings needed to be used in the embodiments or prior art description. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present application, and other drawings can be obtained by those skilled in the art without creating any inventive labor.

[0032] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0033] Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device provided by an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth, such as particular sequences of acts, techniques, etc., in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the present application can be practiced in other embodiments that depart from these specific details. In other instances, detailed descriptions of well-known systems, devices, circuits, and methods are omitted so as not to obscure the description of the embodiments of the present application with unnecessary detail.

[0035] It is to be understood that the terminology "includes", "has", "holds", "contains" used in the present specification and annexed claims are used to describe the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, element, component or a group thereof but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components or groups thereof.

[0036] It is to be understood that the terminology "and / or", used in the present specification and annexed claims, means any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations thereof, and includes these combinations.

[0037] As used in the present specification and annexed claims, the term "if" can be interpreted as "when" or "upon" or "in response to a determination" or "in response to detecting" depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase "if it is determined" or "if [a described condition or event] is detected" can be interpreted as meaning "upon determining" or "in response to determining" or "upon detecting [a described condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [a described condition or event]", depending on the context.

[0038] In addition, in the description of the present specification and annexed claims, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are used only to distinguish the description, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0039] Reference throughout this application to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in some embodiments" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, however, and can refer to one or more but less than all embodiments. The terms "including," "comprising," "having" and variations thereof are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

[0040] First, some terms in the embodiments of the present application are explained to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0041] The aerosol-generating device is an electronic product that generates a vapor to release an aerosol by heating an aerosol substrate or a low-temperature aerosol substrate that is not combusted, unlike a conventional product that releases an aerosol by combustion.

[0042] The above is a brief introduction to the terms involved in the embodiments of the present application, which will not be described again below.

[0043] The present application provides an example of an aerosol-generating device, please refer to Figure 1 as shown, Figure 1 shows a schematic structural diagram of an aerosol-generating device provided by the present application. The aerosol-generating device 100 includes:

[0044] The aerosol-generating unit 101 is arranged inside the aerosol-generating device and is used to place an aerosol substrate and generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol substrate.

[0045] The residual material storage unit 102 is arranged below the aerosol-generating unit 101 and is connected to the aerosol-generating unit, and is used to receive and store the residual material of the aerosol-generating unit.

[0046] The magnet 103 is arranged at the bottom of the residual material storage unit 102 and is lowered synchronously during the process of lowering the residual material storage unit due to the increase of the residual material.

[0047] The Hall sensor 104 is arranged below the magnet 103 and is used to output a corresponding Hall voltage signal when the magnetic field strength of the magnet is detected to reach a preset strength.

[0048] The controller 105 is connected to the Hall sensor 104 and is used to feed back cleaning prompt information if the Hall sensor outputs a Hall voltage signal, wherein the cleaning prompt information is used to indicate the cleaning process of the residual material storage unit.

[0049] Optionally, in the examples of the present application, the aerosol generating unit is used to place the aerosol substrate, such as a mixture of herbs such as mint, licorice, clove, chrysanthemum, etc., and heat the aerosol substrate through the built-in heating assembly to produce an atomization effect of the substances in the aerosol substrate without combustion, forming an aerosol for the user to use.

[0050] Optionally, in one example, the heating mechanism used by the aerosol generating unit can be a heat-not-burn (HNB) technology, which can release the aroma components of the aerosol substrate at a lower temperature while reducing harmful substances produced by traditional combustion methods.

[0051] Optionally, the residual material storage unit is arranged below the aerosol generating unit and connected to the aerosol generating unit. During the operation of the aerosol generating unit, the heated residual gas gradually cools into a deposit and adheres to the inner wall of the aerosol generating unit, and then deposits to the bottom of the aerosol generating unit. During the insertion and extraction process, a small amount of residual material of the aerosol substrate will also fall to the bottom of the aerosol generating unit. By arranging a flow guide channel at the bottom of the aerosol generating unit, the residual material remaining at the bottom of the aerosol generating unit is collected into the residual material storage unit (i.e. cleaning box, cleaning cup), so that the residual material storage unit can receive and contain these residual materials.

[0052] In addition, as the residual material accumulates and the weight increases, the residual material storage unit gradually moves downward under the action of gravity. The movable design allows the accumulation of residual material to be reflected through the change in position.

[0053] Optionally, the magnet 103 is fixed at the bottom of the residual material storage unit 102. When the residual material storage unit moves downward due to the increase in residual material, the magnet will move downward synchronously with the residual material storage unit. The magnet cooperates with the Hall sensor below to transmit the information of the change in position of the residual material storage unit through the change in its own magnetic field strength.

[0054] The Hall sensor 104 is installed below the magnet 103 and can sense the change in magnetic field strength. When the magnet moves downward with the residual material storage unit, the Hall sensor detects a magnetic field strength reaching a preset strength, and the Hall sensor generates a Hall effect and outputs a corresponding Hall voltage signal.

[0055] The controller 105 is connected with the Hall sensor 104. When the controller receives the Hall voltage signal, it means that the residual material storage unit has been lowered to a certain extent, i.e., the residual material has accumulated to the extent that it needs to be cleaned. At this time, the controller triggers the cleaning prompt mechanism, which displays a text prompt on the display screen of the device, such as "Please clean the residual material storage unit"; or controls the indicator light to flash, such as a red indicator light flashing quickly; or plays a prompt voice through the voice module, such as "Too much residual material, please clean it up", to remind the user to clean the residual material storage unit.

[0056] In the examples of the present application, the lowering of the residual material storage unit is converted into a detectable electrical signal change by the cooperation of the magnet and the Hall sensor. This detection method has high accuracy and can accurately reflect the accumulation of residual material, avoiding the problems of delayed cleaning or excessive cleaning due to inaccurate detection.

[0057] Moreover, the overall structure of this scheme is relatively simple, compared with some complex weight detection or optical detection schemes, reducing the number of components and system complexity. At the same time, since the Hall sensor and magnet and other components used have stable performance and are less affected by external environment, the detection reliability is improved. Timely and accurate cleaning prompt information allows users to clearly understand the cleaning needs of the device, avoiding the impact of excessive residual material on the quality of aerosol generation.

[0058] In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 2 The aerosol-generating device further includes:

[0059] Two spring buffer assemblies 201a, 201b are arranged below the residual material storage unit 102, and are used to provide buffering and shock absorption functions for the residual material storage unit during the process of the residual material storage unit driving the magnet to move downward.

[0060] As shown in Figure 2 In other examples that can be implemented, the number of spring buffer assemblies arranged in the aerosol-generating device can be one or more, which can all provide buffering and shock absorption functions for the downward movement of the residual material storage unit.

[0061] Optionally, the spring buffer assemblies are arranged on both sides of the residual material storage unit and are connected with the residual material storage unit and the support structure inside the device. When the residual material storage unit starts to move downward under the action of gravity due to the increase of residual material, pressure is applied to the spring buffer assemblies.

[0062] It can be understood that the spring in the spring buffer assembly has elastic potential energy, and when subjected to the pressure of the residual substance accommodation unit, the spring is compressed and deformed, converting the kinetic energy of the downward movement of the residual substance accommodation unit into the elastic potential energy of the spring itself. Through this process, the speed of the downward movement of the residual substance accommodation unit can be slowed down, playing a buffering role.

[0063] At the same time, vibration is generated during the downward movement of the residual substance accommodation unit, and the elastic deformation of the spring can absorb and disperse these vibration energies, avoiding damage to other parts of the device, and achieving a shock-absorbing function. For example, assuming that the residual substance accommodation unit moves downward quickly at a certain moment, the spring will be compressed quickly, prolonging the action time of the force and reducing the impact force, so that the residual substance accommodation unit can descend smoothly.

[0064] During the operation of the aerosol-generating device, the frequent downward movement and vibration of the residual substance accommodation unit can cause damage to the connecting parts, internal circuits and other components of the device. The spring buffer assembly allows the residual substance accommodation unit to move downward smoothly, preventing sudden vibration or rapid downward movement from causing abnormal fluctuations in the magnetic field strength detected by the Hall sensor, thereby ensuring that the Hall sensor can accurately output a Hall voltage signal when the magnetic field strength reaches a preset strength, and improving the accuracy of detecting the accumulation degree of residual substances.

[0065] In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 2 each spring buffer assembly is connected to the bottom of the residual substance accommodation unit at one end, wherein at least one of welding, bolt connection or buckle connection is used for the connection; and the other end of each spring buffer assembly is fixed to a support structure inside the aerosol-generating device.

[0066] In one example, if welding is used, the top of the spring buffer assembly can be firmly connected to the bottom of the residual substance accommodation unit (cleaning box), and this connection method has very high stability and can effectively withstand the relatively large tension and pressure generated when the residual substance accommodation unit moves downward due to the increase of residual substances.

[0067] In one example, if bolt connection is used, corresponding screw holes are provided on the top of the spring buffer assembly and the bottom of the residual substance accommodation unit, and a bolt and a nut are used to fasten the two together. In another example, buckle connection is also a quick and convenient connection method, which utilizes the elastic deformation of the buckle to clamp the spring buffer assembly in the pre-set buckle slot at the bottom of the residual substance accommodation unit. Buckle connection is simple to operate, can be quickly installed, and has good shock resistance to a certain extent.

[0068] Optionally, in the examples of the present application, the support structure inside the aerosol-generating device is reserved for the device design to bear the force transmitted by the spring buffer assembly to ensure stability. For example, the support structure can be a solid metal frame, the bottom of the support structure is fixed at the bottom of the aerosol-generating device by welding or bolt connection, and the other end (bottom) of the spring buffer assembly is firmly connected to the top of the support structure, so that the spring can provide buffering and shock absorption for the residual substance storage unit during compression and expansion.

[0069] In the examples of the present application, by connecting one end of the spring buffer assembly to the bottom of the residual substance storage unit and fixing the other end of the spring buffer assembly to the support structure inside the aerosol-generating device, whether the residual substance storage unit frequently moves downward or the device vibrates during use, the connection part can not be easily loosened, thereby ensuring the normal operation of the device.

[0070] In a possible implementation, the aerosol-generating device further comprises:

[0071] The mechanical lock is connected to the controller and is a key component for realizing the locking and unlocking functions of the aerosol-generating device. The mechanical lock is composed of a lock body, a lock tongue and the like. When the user needs to lock the device, a specific operation (such as pressing a lock button, rotating a key, etc., the specific operation mode depends on the design of the mechanical lock) can be performed to trigger the lock action. At this time, the controller receives the corresponding signal and controls the lock tongue to extend and cooperate with the corresponding lock hole or clamping groove on the device, so that the device enters the locked state.

[0072] After the aerosol-generating device is locked, the mechanical lock will keep the lock tongue in close cooperation with the lock hole to prevent the key components of the device from being accidentally operated or opened. For example, in the locked state, the aerosol-generating unit cannot start heating, and the residual substance storage unit cannot be taken out at will, ensuring that the device will not be misused in unauthorized circumstances. When the user wants to unlock, a specific operation (such as inputting the correct password, using the corresponding key, etc.) is performed to send an unlock instruction to the controller. After the controller receives the unlock instruction, the lock tongue is controlled to retract, thereby unlocking the device and restoring the normal use state of the device.

[0073]

[0074] ​In daily life, the locking function of the mechanical lock can effectively prevent misoperation, such as preventing children from pressing the start heating button due to curiosity, causing burns or equipment damage. This is crucial for the safety of users, especially children. Moreover, the locked state can also prevent unauthorized access to the device by others, prevent data tampering or leakage, and protect the privacy of users and the stability of device settings.

[0075] In an alternative example, the controller first detects whether the device is in a locked state when receiving the start heating instruction. If the device is locked by the mechanical lock, the controller prohibits the execution of the start heating operation and feeds back a status prompt information. Only when the device is in a safe and operable state, the heating function can be started, further ensuring the safety of the device.

[0076] In a possible implementation, the aerosol-generating device further comprises:

[0077] The display screen is arranged on the shell of the aerosol-generating device and is connected to the controller, and is used to show the cleaning prompt information to the user.

[0078] The buzzer is arranged inside the aerosol-generating device and is connected to the controller, and is used to output the cleaning prompt information in the form of sound alarm.

[0079] Optionally, in the examples of the present application, the display screen is installed on the shell of the aerosol-generating device, which is convenient for the user to view directly. The display screen is connected to the controller through an electric circuit, and can receive the display instructions and related information sent by the controller. When the controller determines that the user needs to be prompted to clean according to the detection of the residual material storage unit, it sends the corresponding cleaning prompt information to the display screen.

[0080] In an alternative example, the display screen can display the cleaning prompt information in various forms. For example, it can clearly display the text "Please clean the residual material storage unit", and at the same time, it can be accompanied by a simple icon, such as a garbage can icon, to make the prompt more intuitive and easy to understand. For display screens with color display function, the importance of the prompt can also be highlighted by changing the color of the text (such as red). In addition, to ensure that the user can notice the prompt information, the display screen can also be set to have a flashing frequency or a display time length, such as the text prompt flashing once every 1 second for 10 seconds, to attract the user's attention.

[0081] Optionally, the buzzer is arranged inside the aerosol-generating device and ensures that the sound can be clearly transmitted to the user. The buzzer is connected to the controller through an electric circuit, and when the controller determines that the cleaning prompt needs to be sent, it sends an electric signal to the buzzer to drive the buzzer to emit sound.

[0082] In an alternative example, the sound emitted by the buzzer can adopt multiple modes to prompt the user. For example, a short and sharp "tick-tock" sound is emitted, with 1 beep every 1 second, and 5 beeps in total. This regular sound pattern can effectively attract the user's attention, especially when the user is not directly looking at the device display screen, and the user can be reminded in time through the sound alarm that the device needs to be cleaned. In addition, the volume of the buzzer can also be adjusted according to the use scene, such as appropriately reducing the volume in a relatively quiet environment to avoid causing interference; and increasing the volume in a noisy environment to ensure that the sound can be heard by the user.

[0083] In the examples of the present application, the cleaning prompt information is output simultaneously through the display screen and the buzzer, and two different perception modes of vision and hearing are adopted. The multi-modal prompting mode can ensure that the user has a high probability of receiving the cleaning prompt information regardless of the state (such as focusing on other things without looking at the device, or in a relatively dark environment and cannot see the display screen clearly), so as to clean the residual substance storage unit in time.

[0084] In addition, the user can more conveniently obtain the device state information according to the user's own use habits and scenes. For example, in some occasions that need to be kept quiet, the user can choose to turn off the buzzer sound and rely only on the display screen prompt; while in a busy or distracted state, the sound prompt can more effectively remind the user, and improve the user's satisfaction and use experience of the device.

[0085] In a possible implementation manner, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0086] The state indicating lamp is arranged on the shell of the aerosol generating device and is connected to the controller, and is used to display the cleaning prompt information in the form of light color or flashing state.

[0087] Optionally, in the examples of the present application, the state indicating lamp is installed on the shell of the aerosol generating device, so that the user can conveniently observe the state change of the indicating lamp when operating the device. The state indicating lamp is connected to the controller through a circuit, and the controller sends a corresponding control signal to the state indicating lamp according to the detection condition of the residual substance storage unit in the device, so as to change the light color or flashing state of the indicating lamp.

[0088] In an alternative example, different light colors can represent different device states. For example, when the residual substance in the residual substance storage unit is within the normal range, the state indicating lamp can display green, indicating that the device is operating normally. When the residual substance reaches the degree that needs to be cleaned, the indicating lamp can be controlled to change to red, directly conveying the information that needs to be cleaned to the user. This clear contrast in color enables the user to quickly understand the device state without carefully checking the display screen or listening to the sound prompt.

[0089] The color change of the status indicator light can also convey rich information. For example, when the residual substance is close to the degree that needs to be cleaned but has not reached the threshold, the status indicator light can flash at a slower frequency, such as once every 2 or 3 seconds, as a mild reminder to remind the user to pay attention to the condition of the residual substance. When the residual substance reaches or exceeds the cleaning threshold, the status indicator light flashes at a faster frequency, such as once per second, to attract the user's high attention and prompt him / her to clean the residual substance storage unit as soon as possible.

[0090] It should be understood that in an optional example, the status indicator light can complement the cleaning prompt information displayed on the screen. When the screen displays detailed cleaning prompt text, the status indicator light reinforces the text prompt through color and flashing state. For example, the screen displays "Please clean the residual substance storage unit", and the status indicator light flashes red quickly, giving the user a double visual prompt and enhancing the prompt effect.

[0091] In another optional example, the status indicator light can also work together with the buzzer to form a visual and auditory combined prompt system. When the buzzer emits a sound alarm, the status indicator light synchronously prompts with a specific color and flashing state. For example, the buzzer emits a short "tick-tock" sound, and the status indicator light flashes red quickly. This multi-dimensional prompt method can effectively attract the user's attention in various environments and ensure that the user receives the cleaning prompt information in time.

[0092] In addition, the status indicator light can quickly convey key information of the device through simple color and flashing changes, without the need for the user to perform complex interpretation, thereby improving the transmission efficiency of the prompt information. Compared with the screen and the buzzer, the status indicator light generally has lower energy consumption and longer service life, which can prolong the use time of the device battery, reduce the frequency of maintenance or replacement due to damage of the indicator light, and improve the reliability and stability of the device.

[0093] In a possible implementation, the aerosol-generating device further includes:

[0094] The communication module is arranged inside the aerosol-generating device and connected to the controller, and is configured to send the cleaning prompt information to other terminal devices of the user.

[0095] Optionally, the communication module can be a Bluetooth module, a Wi-Fi module, an NFC module, or a cellular network module (such as a 4G or 5G module), and the specific type depends on the design requirements and target application scenarios of the device. The communication module is arranged inside the aerosol-generating device and is closely connected to the controller through an electric circuit. After the controller determines that the cleaning prompt information needs to be sent, the information is transmitted to the communication module.

[0096] For example, when the communication module receives the cleaning prompt information from the controller, it first attempts to establish a Bluetooth connection with other terminal devices of the user (such as a smart phone, a smart watch, etc.). If pairing has been completed in advance, the communication module quickly identifies and connects to the target device. After a successful connection, the cleaning prompt information is encapsulated and transmitted according to a specific Bluetooth protocol. The Wi-Fi module can connect to the user's set home or office network and send the cleaning prompt information to the terminal device associated with the network and configured to receive the information.

[0097] It should be noted that other types of communication modules also follow the above similar process to send cleaning prompt information through their respective communication protocols.

[0098] In the examples of the present application, the communication module and the display screen, buzzer, and status indicator light complement each other. When the display screen, buzzer, or status indicator light of the aerosol-generating device itself sends a cleaning prompt, the communication module simultaneously sends the prompt to other terminal devices of the user. For example, even if the device is placed in a remote location, the user can receive the cleaning prompt notification from the device while using the phone, ensuring that the user will not miss important prompts.

[0099] By sending cleaning prompt information to other terminal devices, the aerosol-generating device and the user's daily devices are interconnected, making the aerosol-generating device no longer an isolated individual but integrated into the user's smart life ecosystem, improving the overall competitiveness and appeal of the device.

[0100] In one possible implementation, the aerosol-generating device further includes:

[0101] The key is connected to the controller and is used to receive a user input start heating instruction.

[0102] Optionally, in the examples of the present application, the key is composed of a keycap, a spring, and a contact. In terms of physical structure, the key is arranged on the shell of the aerosol-generating device for easy user operation.

[0103] When the user presses the key, the keycap is depressed, causing the spring to deform, and then the originally separated contacts come into contact with each other, forming a closed circuit. At this time, the current signal is transmitted to the controller through the circuit, and the controller receives this current signal and identifies it as a user input start heating instruction. When the user releases the key, the spring returns to its original state, the contacts are separated, and the circuit is disconnected, waiting for the next instruction input.

[0104] After receiving the start heating instruction from the button, the controller first detects whether the aerosol-generating device is in a locked state. If the device is in a locked state, the locking is realized by a mechanical lock or the like, the controller prohibits the start heating operation, and feedback state prompt information is fed back through the display screen, the buzzer, or the state indicator light to inform the user that the device is locked. Only when the device is not locked, the start heating operation is further determined according to the state of the residual substance storage unit.

[0105] By providing a button on the aerosol-generating device, a simple and direct operation mode is provided for the user to start the heating function. Compared with some complex operation modes, such as multi-layer menu selection or voice instruction operation through a touch screen, the button has a simple structure, stable performance, high reliability, and more intuitive operation.

[0106] In a possible implementation, the aerosol-generating device further includes:

[0107] The battery assembly is arranged inside the aerosol-generating device and connected to each component in the aerosol-generating device through a power line and connected to an external power source through a charging interface, and is configured to convert the electrical energy obtained from the external power source into a voltage and a current suitable for each component.

[0108] Optionally, in the example of the present application, the battery assembly is arranged inside the aerosol-generating device to supply power to each component of the device. When the device needs to be charged, the charging interface is connected to an external power source. After the electrical energy provided by the external power source enters the battery assembly, the circuit inside the battery assembly processes the electrical energy and converts it into a voltage and a current suitable for each component. By providing stable power support for all components in the device, such as the aerosol-generating unit, the controller, the display screen, the buzzer, the state indicator light, and the communication module, it is ensured that each component can work normally according to the design requirements.

[0109] In a possible implementation, the aerosol-generating device further includes:

[0110] The battery power detection circuit is connected to the battery assembly and the controller and is configured to detect the remaining power of the battery assembly in real time.

[0111] Optionally, in the example of the present application, the battery power detection circuit is connected to the battery assembly and the controller and monitors the remaining power of the battery assembly in real time. By measuring and analyzing parameters such as the voltage, current, and internal resistance of the battery, a specific algorithm is used to estimate the remaining power of the battery. For example, by monitoring the change in battery voltage, the voltage gradually decreases as the power decreases during discharging. The power detection circuit can calculate the remaining power of the current battery according to the pre-set voltage-power correspondence. Then the detected power information is transmitted to the controller.

[0112] After the controller receives the remaining power information from the battery power detection circuit, if it is detected that the battery power is lower than a certain preset threshold, the controller can send a low power prompt to the user through the display screen, status indicator light or buzzer, etc. to remind the user to charge the device in time.

[0113] In addition, when the battery power is too low, the controller can limit the use of some unnecessary functions to protect the battery and the device. For example, reducing the brightness of the display screen, reducing the working frequency of the communication module or prohibiting the aerosol generating unit from unnecessary heating operation, to prolong the use time of the device in low power condition, and at the same time avoid excessive discharge to cause damage to the battery.

[0114] Through the examples of the present application, the user can know the remaining power of the battery in real time, arrange the use and charging time of the device reasonably, and avoid the influence on use due to sudden power failure of the battery. For example, the user can decide whether to carry a charger or charge the device in advance according to the power prompt before going out. Through the timely power prompt and the function limitation in low power condition, the excessive discharge of the battery can be avoided, the service life of the battery is prolonged, the use cost of the user is reduced, and the reliability and stability of the device are improved.

[0115] In the above embodiments, the description of each embodiment has its own emphasis, and the parts not described or recorded in a certain embodiment can be referred to the related description of other embodiments.

[0116] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, but not limit them; although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions recorded in the foregoing embodiments, or make equivalent replacement for part of the technical features; and these modifications or replacements do not make the essence of the corresponding technical solutions deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and should be included in the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating apparatus, characterized by, The aerosol generating device comprises: An aerosol generating unit arranged inside the aerosol generating device and used for placing aerosol substrate and generating aerosol by heating the aerosol substrate; A residual material receiving unit movably arranged below the aerosol generating unit and connected to the aerosol generating unit, and used for receiving and containing residual material of the aerosol generating unit; A magnet arranged at the bottom of the residual material receiving unit and moving downward synchronously during the downward movement of the residual material receiving unit caused by the increase of the residual material; A Hall sensor arranged below the magnet and used for outputting a corresponding Hall voltage signal when the magnetic field strength of the magnet is detected to reach a preset strength; A controller connected to the Hall sensor and used for feeding back cleaning prompt information if the Hall voltage signal is output by the Hall sensor, wherein the cleaning prompt information is used to instruct cleaning processing of the residual material receiving unit.

2. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein, The aerosol generating device further comprises: Two spring buffer assemblies arranged below the residual material receiving unit and used for providing buffer and damping functions for the residual material receiving unit through telescopic change during the downward movement of the residual material receiving unit.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein One end of each of the spring buffer assemblies is connected to the bottom of the residual material receiving unit, and at least one of welding, bolt connection or buckle is used for the connection; The other end of each of the spring buffer assemblies is fixed on a support structure inside the aerosol generating device.

4. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein, The aerosol generating device further comprises: A mechanical lock connected to the controller and used for locking or unlocking the aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating device in the locked state is in the locked state after being locked.

5. The aerosol generating device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The aerosol generating device further comprises: A display screen arranged on the shell of the aerosol generating device and connected to the controller, and used for showing the cleaning prompt information to the user; A buzzer arranged inside the aerosol generating device and connected to the controller, and used for outputting the cleaning prompt information in the form of sound alarm.

6. The aerosol generating device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The aerosol generating device further comprises: A status indicator lamp arranged on the shell of the aerosol generating device and connected to the controller, and used for showing the cleaning prompt information in the form of light color or flickering state.

7. The aerosol generating device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The aerosol generating device further comprises: A communication module arranged inside the aerosol generating device and connected to the controller, and used for sending the cleaning prompt information to other terminal devices of the user.

8. The aerosol generating device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The aerosol generating device further comprises: A key connected to the controller and used for receiving a start heating instruction input by the user.

9. The aerosol generating device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The aerosol generating device further comprises: A battery assembly arranged inside the aerosol generating device, connected to each component in the aerosol generating device through a power line, connected to an external power supply through a charging interface, and used for converting electric energy obtained from the external power supply into voltage and current used by the components.

10. The aerosol-generating device of claim 9, wherein, The aerosol generating device further comprises: A battery power detection circuit is connected with the battery assembly and the controller, and is used for detecting the residual power of the battery assembly in real time.

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