Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

The utility model relates to an aerosol generating device which comprises a base body which at least partially surrounds or defines a heating cavity, the heating cavity is used for receiving an aerosol generating substrate, and the heating cavity comprises at least two heating sub-cavities; a microwave generation circuit, wherein a heating branch is established between the microwave generation circuit and each heating sub-cavity; and the control circuit is electrically connected with the microwave generation circuit and is configured to control the microwave generation circuit to emit microwave signals and gate the heating branches corresponding to the at least two heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule, and when the heating branches are gated, the microwave signals are fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavities, and the microwave signals are sent to the microwave generation circuit. Thus, the aerosol-generating substrate located in the heating sub-cavity is heated. According to the aerosol generating device, the taste consistency of the aerosol generating matrix in the smoking process can be improved, the phenomenon that the mouth is scalded by smoke is avoided, and the aerosol generating speed is increased.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of heated non-combustible technology, and in particular to an aerosol generating device. Background Technology

[0002] A heated non-combustible aerosol generator is an electronic device that extracts aerosols by heating the aerosol-generating matrix (a solid matrix such as tobacco or other plant leaf products) without causing combustion. The heated non-combustible aerosol generator heats the aerosol-generating matrix to a high temperature, enough to produce aerosols but not enough to burn them, thus generating the desired aerosols without combustion.

[0003] In some exemplary prior art, there is an aerosol generating apparatus including a heating cavity and a microwave antenna, the microwave antenna being at least partially located within the heating cavity, the heating cavity being used to receive an aerosol generating matrix, and when the aerosol generating matrix is ​​received in the heating cavity, the microwave antenna is inserted into the aerosol generating matrix to radiate microwaves to heat the aerosol generating matrix in order to generate aerosols.

[0004] However, when the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated by microwave radiation through a microwave antenna, the aroma of the aerosol-generating matrix decays significantly as the inhalation process progresses, resulting in poor consistency in the taste of the aerosol-generating matrix. Due to the high water content of the entire aerosol-generating matrix, the water content of the aerosol is high in the early stages of the inhalation process, and the smoke temperature is high, which may cause the mouth to burn. The large volume of the entire aerosol-generating matrix results in a slow aerosol generation rate. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide an aerosol generating device that can improve the consistency of the taste of the aerosol matrix during the inhalation process, avoid the phenomenon of burning the mouth with smoke, and increase the aerosol generation speed.

[0006] At least one embodiment of this application provides an aerosol generating apparatus, which includes:

[0007] A substrate, at least partially surrounding or defining a heating cavity, the heating cavity being used to receive an aerosol-generating matrix, the heating cavity including at least two heating sub-cavities;

[0008] A microwave generating circuit, wherein the microwave generating circuit establishes a heating branch with each of the heating sub-cavities;

[0009] The control circuit, electrically connected to the microwave generating circuit, is configured to control the microwave generating circuit to emit microwave signals and to select heating branches corresponding to at least two heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule. When a heating branch is selected, the microwave signal is fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavity, thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix located in the heating sub-cavity.

[0010] As an example, a switch and a microwave antenna are provided on the heating branch;

[0011] The switch is electrically connected between the microwave generating circuit and the microwave antenna, and is also electrically connected to the control circuit, which is further configured to control the switch to be turned on or off, and at least a portion of the microwave antenna is located within the corresponding heating subcavity.

[0012] As an example, at least two of the heating sub-cavities are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the heating cavity.

[0013] As an example, a gap is provided between two adjacent heating sub-cavities.

[0014] As an example, the at least two heating sub-cavities are of equal length in the axial direction of the heating cavity.

[0015] As an example, the microwave antenna is configured to be needle-shaped, with at least a portion of the microwave antenna passing through the substrate into a corresponding heating sub-cavity.

[0016] As an example, the microwave antenna is configured as a needle, with at least a portion of the microwave antenna disposed on the outer peripheral sidewall of the corresponding heating subcavity.

[0017] As an example, each of the heating sub-cavities has a first end and a second end that are positioned opposite each other;

[0018] One of the heating sub-cavities has an open end at the first end and a closed end at the second end, and the second end has a first through hole. The microwave antenna corresponding to the heating sub-cavity extends axially through the first through hole in the heating sub-cavity.

[0019] The first and second ends of the remaining heating subcavities are open ends. The microwave antenna corresponding to each heating subcavity is at least partially located in the interval corresponding to the heating subcavity, at least partially located in the heating subcavity, and extends axially in the heating subcavity.

[0020] The length of the microwave antenna within the corresponding heating subcavity is less than the distance from the first end to the second end of the heating subcavity.

[0021] As an example, each of the heating sub-cavities has a first end and a second end that are positioned opposite each other;

[0022] One of the heating sub-cavities has an open end at its first end and a closed end at its second end, while the other heating sub-cavities have open ends at both their first and second ends.

[0023] Each heating sub-cavity has a second through hole on its circumferential sidewall. A microwave antenna corresponding to each heating sub-cavity extends radially through the second through hole within the heating sub-cavity, and the length of the microwave antenna within the corresponding heating sub-cavity is less than the width of the heating sub-cavity.

[0024] As an example, the microwave antenna is configured as a patch, with at least a portion of the microwave antenna located within a corresponding heating subcavity and formed or attached to the inner peripheral sidewall of the substrate.

[0025] As an example, the microwave antenna is configured to be a meandering or bent extension shape, the microwave antenna at least partially surrounding or enclosing the corresponding heating sub-cavity, and forming or being incorporated into the outer peripheral sidewall of the substrate.

[0026] As an example, the microwave generating circuit includes:

[0027] A microwave generator, electrically connected to the control circuit, is configured to generate microwave signals;

[0028] A circulator, wherein a first end of the circulator is connected to the microwave generator, a second end of the circulator is connected to switches of at least two of the heating branches, and a third end of the circulator is connected to the control circuit. The circulator is configured to transmit the microwave signal through the first end and the second end of the circulator, and to transmit the microwave signal reflected back from the heating sub-cavity through the second end and the third end of the circulator to the control circuit.

[0029] As an example, the microwave generator includes:

[0030] An oscillator, electrically connected to the control circuit, is configured to generate microwave signals;

[0031] A power amplifier, electrically connected to the oscillator, is configured to amplify the microwave signal.

[0032] As an example, the control circuit includes:

[0033] The controller is connected to the microwave generator and the switches of at least two of the heating branches respectively, and is configured to control the microwave generator to generate microwave signals and control the switches of at least two of the heating branches to be turned on or off, thereby selecting the heating branches corresponding to the at least two heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule.

[0034] A power detector, electrically connected between the third end of the circulator and the controller, is configured to detect the reflected power of the microwave signal reflected back from the heated subcavity, so that the controller controls the transmission power of the microwave signal based on the reflected power.

[0035] The aerosol generating device provided in the above embodiments includes a substrate that at least partially surrounds or defines a heating chamber for receiving an aerosol generating matrix. The heating chamber includes at least two heating sub-cavities; a microwave generating circuit that establishes a heating branch with each heating sub-cavity; and a control circuit electrically connected to the microwave generating circuit, configured to control the microwave generating circuit to emit microwave signals and to select heating branches corresponding to at least two heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule. When a heating branch is selected, a microwave signal is fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavity, thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix located in that heating sub-cavity. By dividing the aerosol generating matrix into at least two heating sub-cavities and heating the aerosol generating matrix located in different heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule, the consistency of the aerosol generating matrix's taste during inhalation can be improved, the burning sensation of smoke on the mouth can be avoided, and the aerosol generation speed can be increased. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. In all the drawings, similar elements or parts are generally identified by similar reference numerals. In the drawings, the elements or parts are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol generating device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first heating cavity and heating branch provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second heating cavity and heating branch provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the third type of heating chamber and heating branch provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0041] Figures 5a-5e This is a schematic diagram of a heating chamber (taking four heating sub-cavities as an example) for receiving a bulk aerosol generation matrix provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figures 6a-6eThis is a schematic diagram of a heating chamber (taking four heating sub-cavities as an example) for receiving a substrate for generating sheet-like aerosols, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0043] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth type of heating chamber and heating branch provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0044] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the fifth type of heating chamber and heating branch provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0045] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a microwave generating circuit and a control circuit provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0047] The terms "first," "second," and "third" used in this application are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number or order of the indicated technical features. All directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship or movement of the components in a specific orientation (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific orientation changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0048] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0049] Please refer to Figure 1At least one embodiment of this application provides an aerosol generating device, which includes a substrate 10, a microwave generating circuit 20, and a control circuit 30.

[0050] The substrate 10 at least partially surrounds or defines a heating chamber 11 for receiving an aerosol-generating matrix. The heating chamber 11 includes at least two heating sub-cavities (e.g., Figure 1 The heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n are shown, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0051] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix includes an aerosol generating article, such as a cigarette.

[0052] Aerosol-generating articles preferably use tobacco-containing materials that release volatile compounds from the matrix upon heating; alternatively, they may be non-tobacco materials suitable for electric heating and smoke generation after heating. Aerosol-generating articles preferably use a solid matrix, which may include one or more of the following: vanilla leaves, tobacco leaves, homogenized tobacco, expanded tobacco, in powder, granules, fragments, strips, or sheets; or, the solid matrix may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile aroma compounds to be released when the matrix is ​​heated.

[0053] When aerosol-generated products are received by an aerosol generating device, it is advantageous for a portion, such as a filter nozzle, to protrude outside the device for the user to inhale.

[0054] In this embodiment, the aerosol generating device heats the aerosol-generating product by radiating microwaves onto it. Adaptably, the overall shape of the aerosol generating device is generally elongated.

[0055] In some embodiments, the substrate 10 is shielded against microwaves. Microwaves refer to electromagnetic waves with frequencies between 300 MHz and 300 GHz.

[0056] In some embodiments, the length of the substrate 10 is between 10 and 40 mm. In some specific embodiments, the circumferential length or perimeter of the substrate 10 is greater than the length of the substrate 10 in the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, the substrate 10 may have a longitudinal length of approximately 10 mm to 15 mm; or in some embodiments, the longitudinal length of the substrate 10 is no more than 15 mm or less than 15 mm. For example, in some specific embodiments, the substrate 10 may have a longitudinal length of 12 mm.

[0057] In some embodiments, the substrate 10 has an inner diameter of approximately 5 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the substrate 10 may have an inner diameter of 7.6 mm. In some embodiments, the wall thickness of the substrate 10 is between 0.1 and 0.6 mm; more specifically, for example, the wall thickness of the substrate 10 is between 0.15 and 0.3 mm.

[0058] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the substrate 10 is slightly smaller than or equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is heated in the heating chamber 11 of the substrate 10, the inner surface of the substrate 10 is in contact with the aerosol-generating article and thus conducts heat to each other. In some embodiments, the substrate 10 can withstand a temperature of at least 350°C.

[0059] according to Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the substrate 10 is generally tubular, and the hollow portion of the substrate 10 at least defines the heating chamber 11 for receiving the aerosol-generated article.

[0060] according to Figures 2 to 4 As shown, at least two heating sub-cavities are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the heating cavity 11.

[0061] In this embodiment, the shapes of heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n are adapted to the form of the aerosol-generated product. For example, when the aerosol-generated product is a cigarette, heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n are all cylindrical.

[0062] In this embodiment, when the aerosol-generated article is received within the heating chamber 11, heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n each correspond to a matrix segment of the aerosol-generated article. The matrix segment located in heating sub-cavity 111 is heated by feeding a microwave signal into heating sub-cavity 111 (or radiating a microwave signal into heating sub-cavity 11n). Similarly, the matrix segment located in heating sub-cavity 11n is heated by feeding a microwave signal into heating sub-cavity 11n (or radiating a microwave signal into heating sub-cavity 11n). Thus, according to the arrangement of heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n, the aerosol-generated article is divided into at least two matrix segments, the length of each matrix segment depending on the length of the corresponding heating sub-cavity.

[0063] Based on this, during the inhalation process, heating chambers 111 to 11n are heated separately to reduce aroma decay in the aerosol-generated product and maintain consistent taste. Compared to the entire aerosol-generated product, the matrix content of heating chambers 111 to 11n is reduced, avoiding excessively high smoke temperature during the first puff and the resulting mouth-burning sensation. Compared to the entire aerosol-generated product, the matrix volume of heating chambers 111 to 11n is smaller; under the same power conditions, less matrix facilitates faster smoke extraction, thus increasing the aerosol generation rate.

[0064] Furthermore, the temperature distribution in heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n is more uniform, resulting in more even heating of the aerosol-generated product. Compared to the entire aerosol-generated product, the microwave generating circuit 20 required for the substrate corresponding to heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n requires less output power, which improves the efficiency of the aerosol generating device. Simultaneously, the reduced PCB heat dissipation area corresponding to the microwave generating circuit 20 facilitates the miniaturization design of the aerosol generating device.

[0065] The microwave generating circuit 20 establishes a heating branch with each heating sub-cavity.

[0066] according to Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the microwave generating circuit 20 and the heating sub-cavity 111 are connected by a heating branch L1, and so on, the microwave generating circuit 20 and the heating sub-cavity 11n are connected by a heating branch Ln, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0067] In some embodiments, a switch and a microwave antenna are provided on the heating branch. The switch is electrically connected between the microwave generating circuit 20 and the microwave antenna, and is also electrically connected to the control circuit 30, which is configured to control the switch to be turned on or off. At least a portion of the microwave antenna is located within the corresponding heating sub-cavity.

[0068] according to Figures 2 to 4 As shown, taking the heating cavity 11, which includes heating sub-cavities 111 and 112, as an example, the microwave generating circuit 20 and the heating sub-cavity 111 establish a heating branch L1, and the heating sub-cavity 112 establishes a heating branch L2.

[0069] Heating branch L1 is equipped with a switch L1a and a microwave antenna L1b. Switch L1a is electrically connected between microwave generating circuit 20 and microwave antenna L1b, and is also electrically connected to control circuit 30. Control circuit 30 is further configured to control switch L1a to be turned on or off. At least a portion of microwave antenna L1b is located within heating sub-cavity 111. Heating branch L2 is equipped with a switch L2a and a microwave antenna L2b. Switch L2a is electrically connected between microwave generating circuit 20 and microwave antenna L2b, and is also electrically connected to control circuit 30. Control circuit 30 is further configured to control switch L2a to be turned on or off. At least a portion of microwave antenna L2b is located within heating sub-cavity 112.

[0070] In some embodiments, a gap is provided between two adjacent heating sub-cavities.

[0071] according to Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the distance between heating sub-cavity 111 and heating sub-cavity 112 is D0.

[0072] In some embodiments, when the aerosol generating article is received in the heating chamber 11, the area between the first end 1111 of the heating sub-cavity 111 and the second end 1122 of the heating sub-cavity 112 is the matrix segment of the aerosol generating article. At this time, the interval between the heating sub-cavity 111 and the heating sub-cavity 112 is also the matrix segment of the aerosol generating article.

[0073] In some embodiments, when the aerosol generating article is received in the heating chamber 11, the first end 1111 to the second end 1112 of the heating sub-cavity 111 is the first matrix segment of the aerosol generating article, the first end 1121 to the second end 1122 of the heating sub-cavity 112 is the second matrix segment of the aerosol generating article, and the interval between the heating sub-cavity 111 and the heating sub-cavity 112 is the non-matrix segment of the aerosol generating article. That is, a connecting segment is provided between the first matrix segment and the second matrix segment of the aerosol generating article, and the connecting segment is the non-matrix segment.

[0074] In this embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a sealing assembly for sealing the gap between heating sub-cavities 111 and 112 to prevent aerosol escape. In some embodiments, the sealing assembly is also used to shield microwaves.

[0075] In some embodiments, the heating cavity 11 is divided into at least two heating regions arranged in a continuous manner, each heating region corresponding to a heating sub-cavity, that is, the interval between two adjacent heating sub-cavities is 0.

[0076] In some embodiments, the heating cavity 11 is divided into at least two heating regions arranged at intervals, each heating region corresponding to a heating sub-cavity, that is, the interval between two adjacent heating sub-cavities is not 0.

[0077] In some embodiments, at least two heating sub-cavities have equal lengths along the axial direction of the heating cavity 11.

[0078] according to Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the lengths of heating sub-cavities 111 and 112 in the axial direction of heating cavity 11 are equal. The length of heating sub-cavity 111 in the axial direction of heating cavity 11 is S1, and the length of heating sub-cavity 112 in the axial direction of heating cavity 11 is S2. In this embodiment, S1 = S2, that is, the volumes of the aerosol-generating matrix segment in heating sub-cavity 111 and the aerosol-generating matrix segment in heating sub-cavity 112 are equal, which is beneficial for maintaining the consistency of the aerosol-generating matrix in taste during the suction process.

[0079] In some embodiments, the length of the heating sub-cavities can be determined based on the material, flavor, preset heating rules, etc. of the aerosol-generated product. Therefore, the lengths of at least two heating sub-cavities in the axial direction of the heating cavity 11 can be unequal.

[0080] In some embodiments, the microwave antenna is configured as a needle, with at least a portion of the microwave antenna passing through the substrate 10 into the corresponding heating subcavity.

[0081] In some embodiments, each heating subcavity has a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other; one heating subcavity has an open first end and a closed second end, and the second end has a first through hole, through which the microwave antenna corresponding to the heating subcavity extends axially within the heating subcavity; the first and second ends of the other heating subcavities are both open, and the microwave antenna corresponding to each heating subcavity is at least partially located within the corresponding interval of the heating subcavity, at least partially located within the heating subcavity, and extends axially within the heating subcavity. The length of the microwave antenna within the corresponding heating subcavity is less than the distance from the first end to the second end of the heating subcavity.

[0082] according to Figure 2 As shown, the heating sub-cavity 111 has a first end 1111 and a second end 1112 disposed opposite to each other. Both the first end 1111 and the second end 1112 of the heating sub-cavity 111 are open ends. The microwave antenna L1b is at least partially located in the gap between the heating sub-cavities 111 and 112, and at least partially located within the heating sub-cavity 111, extending axially within the heating sub-cavity 111. The heating sub-cavity 112 has a first end 1121 and a second end 1122 disposed opposite to each other. The first end 1121 of the heating sub-cavity 112 is an open end, and the second end 1122 is a closed end. The second end 1122 has a first through hole 101, through which the microwave antenna L2b extends axially within the heating sub-cavity 112.

[0083] In this embodiment, the second end 1122 of the heating sub-cavity 112 is used to support the aerosol-generated article.

[0084] In this embodiment, the length of microwave antenna L1b within heating subcavity 111 is less than the distance S1 from the first end 1111 to the second end 1112 of heating subcavity 111, which facilitates concentrating the heat generated by microwave antenna L1b inside heating subcavity 111. Similarly, the length of microwave antenna L2b within heating subcavity 112 is less than the distance S2 from the first end 1121 to the second end 1122 of heating subcavity 112, which also facilitates concentrating the heat generated by microwave antenna L2b inside heating subcavity 112.

[0085] In some embodiments, microwave antenna L1b extends axially within heating subcavity 111 to the top of heating subcavity 111, which is beneficial because the top of the matrix segment within heating subcavity 111 has the highest temperature, thus achieving rapid smoke emission. Microwave antenna L2b extends axially within heating subcavity 112 to the top of heating subcavity 112, which is beneficial because the top of the matrix segment within heating subcavity 112 has the highest temperature, thus achieving rapid smoke emission.

[0086] In some embodiments, each heating subcavity has a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other; one heating subcavity has an open first end and a closed second end, and the second end has a first through hole. The microwave antenna corresponding to this heating subcavity has a first fixed end and a first free end, the first fixed end being connected to the second end of the heating subcavity, and the first free end extending toward the first end of the heating subcavity; the first and second ends of the other heating subcavities are both open, and the microwave antenna corresponding to each heating subcavity has a second fixed end and a second free end, the second fixed end being flush with the second end of the heating subcavity, and the second free end extending toward the first end of the heating subcavity. The length of the microwave antenna within the corresponding heating subcavity is less than the distance from the first end to the second end of the heating subcavity.

[0087] In some embodiments, each heating subcavity has a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other; the first end of one heating subcavity is an open end and the second end is a closed end, and the first end and the second end of the other heating subcavities are both open ends; a second through hole is provided on the circumferential sidewall of each heating subcavity, and a microwave antenna corresponding to each heating subcavity extends radially inside the heating subcavity through the second through hole, and the length of the microwave antenna inside the corresponding heating subcavity is less than the width of the heating subcavity.

[0088] according to Figure 3 As shown, heating sub-cavity 111 has a first end 1111 and a second end 1112 disposed opposite to each other. Both the first end 1111 and the second end 1112 of heating sub-cavity 111 are open ends. Heating sub-cavity 112 has a first end 1121 and a second end 1122 disposed opposite to each other. The first end 1121 of heating sub-cavity 112 is an open end, and the second end 1122 is a closed end. A second through hole 102 is provided on the circumferential sidewall of heating sub-cavity 111 and heating sub-cavity 112. Microwave antenna L1b passes through the second through hole 102 of heating sub-cavity 111 and extends radially inside heating sub-cavity 111, and the length of microwave antenna L1b inside heating sub-cavity 111 is less than the width of heating sub-cavity 111. Microwave antenna L2b passes through the second through hole 102 of heating sub-cavity 112 and extends radially inside heating sub-cavity 112, and the length of microwave antenna L2b inside heating sub-cavity 112 is less than the width of heating sub-cavity 112.

[0089] In some embodiments, microwave antenna L1b extends radially through the second through-hole 102 of heating sub-cavity 111 to near the center of heating sub-cavity 111, which is beneficial for achieving the highest temperature in the middle of the substrate segment within heating sub-cavity 111, thus achieving uniform heating. Similarly, microwave antenna L2b extends radially through the second through-hole 102 of heating sub-cavity 112 to near the center of heating sub-cavity 111, which is also beneficial for achieving the highest temperature in the middle of the substrate segment within heating sub-cavity 112, thus achieving uniform heating.

[0090] In some embodiments, the microwave antenna is configured as a needle, with at least a portion of the microwave antenna disposed on the outer peripheral sidewall of the corresponding heating subcavity.

[0091] according to Figure 4 As shown, at least a portion of microwave antenna L1b is disposed on the outer peripheral sidewall of heating sub-cavity 111, and at least a portion of microwave antenna L2b is disposed on the outer peripheral sidewall of heating sub-cavity 112. The heat at the corresponding positions of microwave antenna L1b and microwave antenna L2b is more concentrated, thereby realizing circumferential heating of aerosol-generated products and improving the heating effect.

[0092] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​configured as a block aerosol generating matrix. Taking the heating chamber 11 as an example, which includes heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113, and 114, the block aerosol generating matrix is ​​respectively received in heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113, and 114.

[0093] according to Figure 5a As shown, heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114 are arranged laterally, and there are gaps between each pair of heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114.

[0094] according to Figure 5b As shown, heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114 are configured as a 2*2 array of heating cavities 11, and there is a gap between each pair of heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114.

[0095] according to Figure 5c As shown, heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114 are configured as “T”-shaped heating cavities 11, wherein heating sub-cavities 112, 113 and 114 are spaced apart from each other, and heating sub-cavities 111 and 113 are spaced apart from each other.

[0096] according to Figure 5d As shown, heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114 are configured as “L”-shaped heating cavities 11, wherein there is a gap between each pair of heating sub-cavities 112, 113 and 114, and a gap between heating sub-cavities 111 and 112.

[0097] according to Figure 5eAs shown, heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114 are arranged alternately, and they intersect on a plane.

[0098] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​configured as a sheet-like aerosol generating matrix.

[0099] Taking the heating cavity 11, which includes heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113, and 114, as an example, according to... Figure 6a As shown, heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113, and 114 are constructed as annular heating cavities 11. Figures 6b to 6e As shown, heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114 are square, and the sheet-like aerosol generating matrix is ​​received in heating sub-cavities 111, 112, 113 and 114 respectively.

[0100] In one embodiment, the microwave antenna is configured as a patch, with at least a portion of the microwave antenna located within a corresponding heating subcavity and formed or attached to the inner peripheral sidewall of the substrate 10.

[0101] according to Figure 7 As shown, both microwave antennas L1b and Lnb are patch microwave antennas. Patch microwave antenna L1b is formed or attached to the inner peripheral sidewall of the substrate 10 corresponding to the heating subcavity 111. When the heating branch L1 is selected, patch microwave antenna L1b radiates microwaves within the heating subcavity 111. Patch microwave antenna Lnb is formed or attached to the inner peripheral sidewall of the substrate 10 corresponding to the heating subcavity 11n. When the heating branch Ln is selected, patch microwave antenna Lnb radiates microwaves within the heating subcavity 11n.

[0102] In one embodiment, the microwave antenna is configured to be a meandering or folded extension shape, the microwave antenna at least partially surrounding or enclosing the corresponding heating sub-cavity, and forming or being incorporated into the outer peripheral sidewall of the substrate 10.

[0103] according to Figure 8As shown, both microwave antennas L1b and Lnb are constructed as meandering or zigzag extensions or patterns. Microwave antenna L1b at least partially surrounds or encloses heating subcavity 111 and is formed or attached to the outer peripheral sidewall of the substrate 10 corresponding to heating subcavity 111. When heating branch L1 is selected, microwave antenna L1b radiates microwaves into heating subcavity 111. Microwave antenna Lnb at least partially surrounds or encloses heating subcavity 11n and is formed or attached to the outer peripheral sidewall of the substrate 10 corresponding to heating subcavity 11n. When heating branch Ln is selected, microwave antenna Lnb radiates microwaves into heating subcavity 11n.

[0104] according to Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiments, the microwave antenna is formed on the substrate 10 by spraying, deposition, or printing. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the microwave antenna is fabricated independently and then mounted onto the substrate 10. In other embodiments, the microwave antenna is formed by winding or wrapping a sheet precursor of metal or alloy onto the substrate 10; the sheet precursor may be formed by cutting or etching away excess portions of a dense metal sheet. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the microwave antenna is formed by fabricating a tubular precursor of metal or alloy and then nesting or wrapping it onto the substrate 10; the tubular precursor may be obtained by cutting or etching away excess portions of a dense metal tube.

[0105] In some embodiments, the substrate 10 is microwave-transparent. In some embodiments, the microwave transmittance of the substrate 10 is greater than 85%; or, in some embodiments, the microwave transmittance of the substrate 10 is greater than 95%. In some specific embodiments, the substrate 10 is made of an infrared-transparent material, such as quartz or glass.

[0106] In some embodiments, the surface of the substrate 10 is smooth. For example, in some embodiments, the surface roughness Ra of the outer and / or inner surfaces of the substrate 10 is less than 1 nm. A substrate 10 with a low surface roughness Ra is advantageous for promoting microwave transmission.

[0107] In some other embodiments, the surface of the substrate 10 is rough. For example, in some embodiments, the surface roughness Ra of the outer and / or inner surfaces of the substrate 10 is between 5 and 200 nm. A substrate 10 having a surface roughness Ra is beneficial for promoting... Figure 8 The formation and bonding of microwave antennas L1b to Lnb on the surface of substrate 10 is advantageous.

[0108] according to Figure 8The embodiment shown further includes a microwave shielding element arranged around or surrounding the microwave antenna; the microwave shielding element is used to provide microwave shielding outside the microwave antenna; in use, the microwave shielding element maximizes the delivery of microwaves radiated by the microwave antenna into the heating cavity 11.

[0109] In some embodiments, the microwave shielding element is made of a conductive metallic material; conductive metallic materials are advantageous for shielding microwaves, which are electromagnetic waves.

[0110] In some embodiments, the microwave shielding element is tubular in shape. In some embodiments, the wall thickness of the tubular microwave shielding element is between 0.1 and 0.6 mm.

[0111] In some embodiments, the microwave shielding element can be configured as a conductive metal tube. For example, in some embodiments, the microwave shielding element can be a copper tube, aluminum tube, iron tube, nickel tube, etc.

[0112] In some embodiments, the microwave shielding element includes a generally tubular substrate and a conductive metal layer sprayed, deposited, or formed on the substrate. In some embodiments, the tubular substrate may include a quartz tube, glass tube, ceramic tube, etc., made of inorganic insulating materials, or it may also include a PI (polyimide) tube, polyurethane tube, polycarbonate tube, etc., made of organic insulating materials. In some embodiments, the conductive metal layer may be a copper layer, an aluminum layer, an iron layer, a nickel layer, etc.

[0113] In some embodiments, the microwave shielding element is a tubular structure formed by winding a sheet. Furthermore, the microwave shielding element has multiple layers or more winding layers.

[0114] In some embodiments, the thickness of the sheet and / or winding of the microwave shielding material is 0.01 to 0.2 mm.

[0115] In some embodiments, the sheet comprising the microwave shielding material may be a conductive metal sheet or metal foil. For example, in some embodiments, the conductive metal sheet or metal foil may be, for example, copper foil, aluminum foil, iron foil, etc. In some embodiments, the conductive metal sheet or metal foil may be a dense rectangular or square shape; or in yet other embodiments, the conductive metal sheet or metal foil may be a mesh with openings.

[0116] In some embodiments, the sheet comprising microwave shielding material may include: an electrically insulating sheet substrate and a conductive material layer formed or bonded to the sheet substrate. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating sheet substrate may be, for example, a ceramic film, a flexible glass film, a PI film, a polyurethane film, a polycarbonate film, etc. In some embodiments, the conductive material layer may be a metal coating formed on the electrically insulating sheet substrate by deposition, spraying, or printing. In some embodiments, the metal coating may be, for example, a copper layer, an aluminum layer, an iron layer, or a nickel layer.

[0117] The control circuit 30 is electrically connected to the microwave generating circuit 20 and is configured to control the microwave generating circuit 20 to emit microwave signals and to select heating branches corresponding to at least two heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule. When a heating branch is selected, the microwave signal is fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavity, thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix located in the heating sub-cavity.

[0118] In some embodiments, according to Figures 2 to 4 As shown, assuming the heating time for the aerosol-generated product (cigarette) is 4 minutes, the heating time is evenly distributed according to the number of heating sub-cavities. Specifically, the aerosol generating device starts heating, selecting heating branch L2 corresponding to heating sub-cavity 112. When heating branch L2 is selected, a microwave signal is fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavity 112, thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix located in heating sub-cavity 112, and timing begins. The heating time interval for heating sub-cavity 112 is 0–2 minutes. When the heating time reaches 2 minutes, heating branch L2 corresponding to heating sub-cavity 112 is turned off, and heating branch L1 corresponding to heating sub-cavity 111 is selected. When heating branch L1 is selected, a microwave signal is fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavity 111, thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix located in heating sub-cavity 111. The heating time interval for heating sub-cavity 111 is 2–4 minutes.

[0119] In some embodiments, according to Figures 2 to 4 As shown, assuming the number of puffs in the aerosol-generating product (cigarette) is 1000, the number of puffs is evenly distributed according to the number of heating sub-cavities. Specifically, the aerosol generating device starts heating, calculates the number of puffs, and when the number of puffs is between 0 and 500, the heating branch L2 corresponding to heating sub-cavity 112 is selected. When heating branch L2 is selected, a microwave signal is fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavity 112, thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix located in heating sub-cavity 112. When the number of puffs is between 501 and 1000, the heating branch L2 corresponding to heating sub-cavity 112 is turned off, and the heating branch L1 corresponding to heating sub-cavity 111 is selected. When heating branch L1 is selected, a microwave signal is fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavity 111, thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix located in heating sub-cavity 111.

[0120] It is understandable that the preset heating rules can be pre-written based on the design of the heating sub-cavity 111, the design of the aerosol generation matrix, etc., and stored in the control circuit 30.

[0121] Please see Figure 9 The microwave generating circuit 20 includes a microwave generator 21 and a circulator 22.

[0122] The microwave generator 21 is electrically connected to the control circuit 30 and is configured to generate microwave signals.

[0123] The first end of the circulator 22 is connected to the microwave generator 21, and the second end of the circulator 22 is connected to the switches of at least two heating branches (e.g., Figures 2 to 4 The switches L1a and L2a shown are as follows: Figure 8 and Figure 9 The switches L1a to Lna shown are connected, and the third terminal of the circulator 22 is connected to the control circuit 30. The circulator 22 is configured to transmit microwave signals through the first and second terminals of the circulator 22, and to heat the subcavity (such as...) through the second and third terminals of the circulator 22. Figure 1 The microwave signals reflected back from the heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n (where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2) are transmitted to the control circuit 30.

[0124] The circulator 22 has an isolation function to prevent the microwave signal reflected back from the heating sub-cavity from being reflected back to the microwave generator 21.

[0125] As an example, microwave generator 21 includes an oscillator 211 electrically connected to control circuitry 30 and configured to generate microwave signals; and a power amplifier 212 electrically connected to oscillator 211 and configured to amplify microwave signals.

[0126] In one embodiment, the control circuit 30 includes a controller 31 and a power detector 32.

[0127] The controller 31 is connected to the microwave generator 21 and the switches of at least two heating branches (e.g., Figures 2 to 4 The switches L1a and L2a shown are as follows: Figure 8 and Figure 9 The switches L1a to Lna shown are connected and configured to control the microwave generator 21 to generate microwave signals, and to control the switches of at least two heating branches (such as...). Figures 2 to 4 The switches L1a and L2a shown are as follows: Figure 8 and Figure 9 The switches L1a to Lna shown are turned on or off, thereby selecting at least two heating sub-cavities (such as...) according to a preset heating rule. Figure 1 The heating branches corresponding to the heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n shown (where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2) are as follows (e.g. Figure 1 Heating branches L1 to Ln are shown.

[0128] Power detector 32 is electrically connected between the third terminal of circulator 22 and controller 31, and is configured to detect the heating sub-cavity (e.g., Figure 1The reflected power of the microwave signal reflected back from the heating sub-cavities 111 to 11n (where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2) is used to control the transmission power of the microwave signal based on the reflected power.

[0129] In some embodiments, the power detector 32 may be omitted.

[0130] In summary, the aerosol generating device provided in this application provides an improved consistency of the aerosol generating matrix in the inhalation process by dividing and setting the aerosol generating matrix in at least two heating sub-cavities and heating the aerosol generating matrix in different heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule, thereby avoiding the phenomenon of burning the mouth with smoke and increasing the aerosol generation speed.

[0131] It should be noted that the preferred embodiments of this application are given in the specification and accompanying drawings, but are not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating device, characterized by, The application relates to a microwave heating device for heating an aerosol generating substrate, comprising: a base body at least partially surrounding or defining a heating cavity for receiving the aerosol generating substrate, the heating cavity comprising at least two heating sub-cavities; a microwave generating circuit establishing a heating branch for each of the heating sub-cavities; a control circuit electrically connected to the microwave generating circuit and configured to control the microwave generating circuit to emit a microwave signal and to select the heating branch corresponding to each of the at least two heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule, the microwave signal being fed into the corresponding heating sub-cavity when the heating branch is selected, so as to heat the aerosol generating substrate in the heating sub-cavity.

2. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein, a switch and a microwave antenna are arranged on the heating branch; the switch is electrically connected between the microwave generating circuit and the microwave antenna and is electrically connected to the control circuit, the control circuit being further configured to control the switch to be turned on or turned off, at least part of the microwave antenna being located in the corresponding heating sub-cavity.

3. The aerosol-generating device of claim 2, wherein, The at least two heating sub-cavities are arranged in sequence along the axial direction of the heating cavity.

4. The aerosol-generating device of claim 3, wherein, A space is arranged between two adjacent heating sub-cavities.

5. The aerosol-generating device of claim 4, wherein, The length of the at least two heating sub-cavities in the axial direction of the heating cavity is equal.

6. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The microwave antenna is needle-shaped, at least part of the microwave antenna penetrating into the corresponding heating sub-cavity through the base body.

7. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The microwave antenna is needle-shaped, at least part of the microwave antenna being arranged on the outer circumferential sidewall of the corresponding heating sub-cavity. 8.The aerosol-generating device of claim 6, wherein, Each of the heating sub-cavities has oppositely arranged first and second ends. The first end of one of the heating sub-cavities is an open end, the second end is a closed end, and the second end is provided with a first through hole, the microwave antenna corresponding to the heating sub-cavity penetrating through the first through hole and extending axially in the heating sub-cavity. The first and second ends of the remaining heating sub-cavities are both open ends, at least part of the microwave antenna corresponding to each of the heating sub-cavities being located in the space corresponding to the heating sub-cavity and extending axially in the heating sub-cavity. The length of the microwave antenna in the corresponding heating sub-cavity is less than the distance from the first end of the heating sub-cavity to the second end of the heating sub-cavity. 9.The aerosol-generating device of claim 6, wherein, Each of the heating sub-cavities has oppositely arranged first and second ends. The first end of one of the heating sub-cavities is an open end, the second end is a closed end, and the first and second ends of the remaining heating sub-cavities are both open ends. Each of the heating sub-cavities is provided with a second through hole in the circumferential sidewall, the microwave antenna corresponding to each of the heating sub-cavities penetrating through the second through hole and extending radially in the heating sub-cavity, and the length of the microwave antenna in the corresponding heating sub-cavity is less than the width of the heating sub-cavity.

10. The aerosol-generating device of any of claims 2-5, wherein, The microwave antenna is patch-shaped, at least part of the microwave antenna being located in the corresponding heating sub-cavity and formed on or combined with the inner circumferential sidewall of the base body.

11. The aerosol-generating device of any of claims 2-5, wherein, The microwave antenna is arranged in a meandering or bent shape, at least part of the microwave antenna surrounding or enclosing the corresponding heating sub-cavity and being formed on or combined with the outer circumferential sidewall of the base body. 12.The aerosol-generating device of claim 2, wherein, The microwave generating circuit comprises: a microwave generator electrically connected with the control circuit and configured to generate a microwave signal; a circulator, a first end of the circulator connected with the microwave generator, a second end of the circulator connected with the switches of the at least two heating branches respectively, and a third end of the circulator connected with the control circuit, the circulator configured to transmit the microwave signal through the first end and the second end of the circulator, and transmit the microwave signal reflected back by the heating sub-cavity through the second end and the third end of the circulator to the control circuit.

13. The aerosol-generating device of claim 12, wherein, The microwave generator comprises: an oscillator electrically connected with the control circuit and configured to generate a microwave signal; a power amplifier electrically connected with the oscillator and configured to amplify the microwave signal. 14.The aerosol-generating device of claim 12, wherein, The control circuit comprises: a controller connected with the microwave generator and the switches of the at least two heating branches respectively, and configured to control the microwave generator to generate a microwave signal, and control the switches of the at least two heating branches to be turned on or turned off, so as to select the corresponding heating branch of the at least two heating sub-cavities according to a preset heating rule; a power detector electrically connected between the third end of the circulator and the controller, and configured to detect the reflected power of the microwave signal reflected back by the heating sub-cavity, so that the controller controls the transmission power of the microwave signal according to the reflected power.

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