Aerosol generating device, aerosol generating system and method

Abstract

An aerosol generating device for receiving an aerosol substrate and heating the aerosol substrate, comprising a housing, a heating circuit, a heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol substrate when the aerosol substrate is received by the aerosol generating device, the heater assembly including at least one heater, and a fuse assembly provided in thermal communication with the heater assembly and electrically connected to the heater assembly, the fuse assembly including at least one resettable fuse and being housed in the housing. An aerosol generating system and an aerosol generating device or a method of operating the aerosol generating system are also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating system, and a method of operating an aerosol generating device or an aerosol generating system.

Background Art

[0002] An aerosol generating device heats an aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation.

[0003] Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic configuration of a heating circuit of a conventional aerosol generating device is shown. The heating circuit 1 includes a heater assembly 6 including a power supply 2, a control unit 4, a driver 8, and a heater 10, and a temperature sensor 12.

[0004] Closed-loop control is provided, whereby the output of the temperature sensor 12 is provided as an input to the control unit 4 for controlling the temperature of the heater 10. When a failure or malfunction of the control unit 4 and / or the temperature sensor 12 occurs, it may no longer be possible for the control unit 4 to control the heater assembly 6 safely and accurately. For example, a failure or malfunction of the control unit 4 and / or the temperature sensor 12 may lead to an uncontrollable increase in the temperature of the heater 10.

[0005] In one example, as a result of a failure or malfunction of the control unit 4, the power supply 2 may continue to supply power to the heater assembly 6 even though the heater 10 exceeds the target temperature or a safe temperature. In another example, as a result of a failure or malfunction of the temperature sensor 12, an inaccurate input may be provided to the control unit 4 or no input may be provided. The control unit 4 may continue to operate the heater assembly 6 even though the heater 10 exceeds the target temperature or a safe temperature. This may lead to unexpected behavior of the aerosol generating device. In yet another example, as a result of a failure or malfunction of the temperature sensor 12 and / or the control unit 4, the power supply 2 may become over-discharged.

[0006] Furthermore, closed-loop control requires hardware components such as temperature sensor 12 to function. As a result, the complexity, cost, and vulnerability of the aerosol generator are not optimal. The power from power supply 2 is also required for the function of closed-loop control. Therefore, power supply 2 (which is also used by heater assembly 6 to heat the aerosol substrate to generate aerosol) is consumed by the closed-loop control.

[0007] In yet another separate example of the prior art, an aerosol generation system is provided that includes an aerosol generator and a consumable that is received by the aerosol generation measure. A circuit diagram related to this prior art example is illustrated in FIG. 7. The consumable includes an aerosol substrate. A resettable fuse is incorporated into the consumable. When the consumable is consumed, the consumable, and thus the resettable fuse incorporated therein, is discarded. The resettable fuse is thus wasted even though it may potentially still be fully functional. Furthermore, incorporating a resettable fuse into the consumable increases the complexity and cost of the consumable. Moreover, the resettable fuse can be a fragile component, thereby ultimately reducing the robustness of the operation of the aerosol generation system and / or the consumable. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the present invention is to overcome at least some of the above problems. MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0009] According to a first aspect, there is provided an aerosol generating device for receiving an aerosol substrate and heating the aerosol substrate, the aerosol generating device comprising a housing, a heating circuit, a heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol substrate when the aerosol substrate is received by the aerosol generating device, the heater assembly including at least one heater, and a fuse assembly provided in thermal communication with the heater assembly and electrically connected to the heater assembly, the fuse assembly including at least one resettable fuse and being housed in the housing.

[0010] Such a structure is highly advantageous. In contrast to prior art configurations where closed-loop control is provided by temperature sensor feedback to a control unit, this structure does not require closed-loop control for safe operation. For example, when a resettable fuse is heated beyond its cut-off temperature value, the supply of power to the heater assembly can be terminated without the need for feedback or corrective action of other control components (such as a control unit). That is, when the cut-off temperature is exceeded, the resettable fuse acts as an open circuit and thus terminates the supply of power to the heater assembly. As a result, the components of the aerosol generating device are protected from overheating and the safety of the user is also improved. Additionally, the power supply is not consumed by open-loop control. It should be noted that combining such a resettable fuse with closed-loop control can further improve safety.

[0011] Furthermore, in contrast to the prior art configuration where the resettable fuse is incorporated into the consumable, in this structure, the aerosol generating device itself includes at least one resettable fuse. That is, at least one resettable fuse is provided on the "device side" (i.e., the aerosol generating device includes at least one resettable fuse). In this way, since the resettable fuse is not discarded when the aerosol substrate is consumed, waste is reduced. Moreover, in this structure, since the resettable fuse is not discarded when the aerosol substrate is consumed, it becomes easier to use a more accurate and reliable (and thus more expensive) resettable fuse. Thereby, the complexity and cost of the consumable are reduced.

[0012] In addition, with this structure, the robustness of the operation of the aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating device and the aerosol substrate is improved. The proper operation of the system does not depend on the correct connection between the aerosol generating device and the aerosol substrate (or the consumable including the aerosol substrate), and the substrate or consumable includes a resettable fuse. The possibility of safe and proper operation of the aerosol generating system is improved by providing at least one resettable fuse on the device side.

[0013] In one example, the aerosol generating device includes a power source housed in a housing. In one example, the heater assembly is energized by the power source. In one example, at least one heater is energized by the power source. In one example, the fuse assembly is electrically connected to the power source. In one example, the power source is a battery.

[0014] In this way, the power source can provide power to the device components.

[0015] In one example, at least one resettable fuse has a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the target temperature of the heater assembly during the operation of the aerosol generating device.

[0016] In this way, when the target temperature of the heater assembly is reached, the resettable fuse forms an open circuit, and thus the supply of power to the heater assembly is terminated. When the temperature of the heater assembly drops below the target temperature, the resettable fuse forms a closed circuit, and thus the supply of power to the heater assembly is resumed. Thereby, it becomes possible to maintain the temperature of the heater assembly at or near the target temperature. In one example, the heater assembly may have a plurality of target temperatures, and at least one resettable fuse may have a cut-off temperature value corresponding to one of the target temperatures, so that one of the target temperatures can be maintained for a certain period of time. As described above, with such a structure, closed-loop control (incorporating a temperature sensor) is not necessary, and thus the safety, robustness, and accuracy of heating are improved.

[0017] In one example, the heater assembly includes a plurality of heaters, and each heater is provided with a resettable fuse that communicates thermally with the respective heater.

[0018] In this way, each heater can be adjusted independently. An individual temperature sensor for each heater is not necessary, and thus this structure is easier to manufacture and has a reduced likelihood of failure compared to prior art aerosol generators. By omitting the individual temperature sensors, the number of input terminals of the controller can be reduced. Therefore, a small and inexpensive controller can be used.

[0019] In one example, each resettable fuse is electrically connected to each heater of the heater assembly. In one example, each resettable fuse is electrically connected to the power supply. In one example, each resettable fuse is electrically connected to the power supply and each heater.

[0020] In this way, a single heating circuit can be provided. The power supply can supply power to the heating circuit via each resettable fuse.

[0021] In one example, each resettable fuse has a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the target temperature of each heater during the operation of the aerosol generator.

[0022] In this way, each heater can be adjusted independently. Individual temperature sensors for each heater are not necessary, and thus, this structure is easier to manufacture and has a reduced probability of failure compared to aerosol generators of the prior art. Further, a heater may need to provide heating to a specific target temperature, which may be different from one or more target temperatures of other heaters. By providing each resettable fuse with a corresponding cut-off temperature value, open-loop control can control heating to a plurality of different target temperatures. By maintaining the temperature of each heater at each target temperature, more advanced aerosol generation control can be achieved. Such advanced aerosol generation control can lead to the generation of a stable amount of aerosol during operation.

[0023] In one example, at least one of at least one resettable fuse is connected to the gate terminal of a field-effect transistor.

[0024] The continuous on-state of the transistor can cause a short circuit of the transistor. In this way, when at least one of at least one resettable fuse reaches the cut-off temperature value, the field-effect transistor is also turned on. This leads to an improvement in the safety and efficiency of power use. Instead of a field-effect transistor, other switching components (e.g., a bipolar transistor or an insulated-gate bipolar transistor) can be used. In the case of a bipolar transistor, at least one of the resettable fuses is connected to the base terminal of the bipolar transistor. In the case of an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), at least one of the resettable fuses is connected to the gate terminal of the IGBT in the same way as the field-effect transistor.

[0025] In one example, the fuse assembly includes a plurality of resettable fuses, and the heating circuit further includes a multiplexer and a control unit configured to control the multiplexer to selectively supply power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses.

[0026] Advantageously, by providing a multiplexer, it becomes easier to adjust the temperature of the heater assembly when the target temperature does not remain constant throughout the operation. For example, the multiplexer can supply power to a resettable fuse having a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the target temperature for a specific period.

[0027] In one example, the control unit is configured to control the multiplexer to selectively supply power to the heater assembly through one of the plurality of resettable fuses.

[0028] In this way, power is provided through the resettable fuse, which leads to an improvement in the safety and responsiveness of the open-loop control.

[0029] When the resettable fuse to which power is provided by the multiplexer is connected to the gate terminal of a field-effect transistor, power is provided to the field-effect transistor connected to the resettable fuse.

[0030] In one example, the control unit is configured to control the multiplexer to selectively supply power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses having a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the target temperature of the heater assembly over the operating period of the aerosol generator.

[0031] Advantageously, a plurality of target temperatures of the heater assembly can be safely maintained. The target temperature can be achieved or acquired by a single heater or a plurality of heaters. The operating period can be a current or future operating period, thus ensuring that the target temperature is always appropriate for the operation of the aerosol generator.

[0032] In one example, the control unit is configured to control a multiplexer to selectively supply power to a heater assembly through one of a plurality of resettable fuses having a cutoff temperature value corresponding to a target temperature of the heater assembly over an operating period of the aerosol generator.

[0033] In this way, power is provided through the resettable fuse, which leads to an improvement in the safety and responsiveness of the open-loop control.

[0034] In one example, the heater assembly has a plurality of target temperatures, and the control unit is configured to control a multiplexer to selectively supply power to one of a plurality of resettable fuses corresponding to the target temperature of the heater assembly over an operating period of the aerosol generator.

[0035] In this way, by selectively supplying power to an appropriate resettable fuse using the multiplexer, a plurality of target temperatures can be maintained respectively. Thus, the safety over all operating temperatures of the heater assembly is improved. It will be understood that the plurality of target temperatures can be provided by a single heater controlled to provide the plurality of target temperatures or by a plurality of heaters each configured to have a target temperature (e.g., a preferred operating temperature or a maximum safe operating temperature).

[0036] When the resettable fuse to which power is supplied by the multiplexer is connected to the gate terminal of a field effect transistor, power is provided to the field effect transistor connected to the resettable fuse.

[0037] In one example, the heater assembly has a plurality of target temperatures, and the control unit is configured to control a multiplexer to selectively supply power to a heating assembly through one of a plurality of resettable fuses corresponding to the target temperature of the heater assembly over an operating period of the aerosol generator.

[0038] In this way, power is provided through the resettable fuse, which leads to an improvement in the safety and responsiveness of the open-loop control.

[0039] When the resettable fuse supplied with power by the multiplexer is connected to the gate terminal of the field-effect transistor, power is provided to the field-effect transistor connected to the resettable fuse.

[0040] In one example, the heater assembly includes a plurality of heaters, each heater is provided with a resettable fuse that thermally communicates with the respective heater, and the control unit controls the multiplexer to selectively supply power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses corresponding to each heater that is operable to achieve the target temperature of the heater assembly over the operating period of the aerosol generator.

[0041] In this way, the operable heater and the corresponding appropriate resettable fuse provide open-loop control. Therefore, multiple target temperatures can be achieved and maintained safely during the operation of the aerosol generator.

[0042] When the resettable fuse supplied with power by the multiplexer is connected to the gate terminal of the field-effect transistor, power is provided to the field-effect transistor connected to the resettable fuse.

[0043] In one example, the fuse assembly further includes a non-resettable fuse.

[0044] Very advantageously, the non-resettable fuse of the fuse assembly provides an additional degree of safety for the aerosol generating device. When the cut-off temperature value of the non-resettable fuse is reached, the non-resettable fuse forms an open circuit and permanently prevents further power supply to the heating circuit. Unlike resettable fuses, non-resettable fuses do not reset when the temperature of the heater assembly falls below or when it falls below the cut-off temperature value. This is very advantageous when the cut-off temperature value of the non-resettable fuse is selected such that it is the temperature at which the aerosol generating device and its components are no longer considered safe. When the cut-off temperature value of the non-resettable fuse is reached, the aerosol generating device stops functioning.

[0045] In one example, the non-resettable fuse has a cut-off temperature value higher than at least one cut-off temperature value of at least one resettable fuse.

[0046] In this way, the temperature can rise to the cut-off temperature value of the resettable fuse so as to maintain the target temperature, but exceeding this temperature (e.g., by an amount considered unsafe) can be prevented by the non-resettable fuse.

[0047] In one example, the non-resettable fuse has a cut-off temperature value higher than the highest target temperature of the heater assembly.

[0048] In this way, heating that exceeds the highest target temperature of the heater assembly (e.g., by an amount considered unsafe) can be prevented by the non-resettable fuse. That is, in this example, the non-resettable fuse does not form an open circuit until after the resettable fuse has formed an open circuit, but if the non-resettable fuse does not prevent a further temperature rise of the heater assembly due to an unexpected failure, the non-resettable fuse forms an open circuit.

[0049] In one example, the non-resettable fuse has a cut-off temperature value higher than the cut-off temperature value of each resettable fuse.

[0050] In this way, the non-resettable fuse forms an open circuit when overheating of the aerosol generating device occurs. Therefore, further power supply to the heating assembly can be prevented.

[0051] In one example, the fuse assembly is located inside or outside the heater assembly.

[0052] By placing the fuse assembly inside the heater assembly, calibration of the fuse assembly with respect to the temperature inside the heater assembly is not required. That is, since the fuse assembly is in close contact with or directly touches the heater, the temperature in the heater directly corresponds to the temperature in the fuse assembly, and thus accurate and rapid operation at the target temperature can be facilitated.

[0053] Alternatively, by placing the fuse assembly outside the heater assembly, the space inside the heater assembly is freed up, and the manufacture of the heater assembly and the fuse assembly can be simplified. Nevertheless, accurate and rapid operation at the target temperature can still be provided by calibration of the fuse assembly corresponding to the target temperature inside the heater assembly (for example, appropriate selection of the cut-off temperature).

[0054] According to a second aspect, there is provided an aerosol generating system including an aerosol generating device according to the first aspect and an aerosol substrate.

[0055] Very advantageously, there is provided an aerosol generating system in which a fuse assembly including at least one resettable fuse is provided in the aerosol generating device (for example, on the device side), so that safety is improved and cost and complexity are reduced.

[0056] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of operating an aerosol generating device, the method including receiving an aerosol substrate in the aerosol generating device and using a heating circuit including a heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol substrate received by the aerosol generating device, the heater assembly including at least one heater, and a fuse assembly provided in thermal communication with and electrically connected to the heater assembly, the fuse assembly including at least one resettable fuse and being housed in a housing of the aerosol generating device, to heat the aerosol substrate.

[0057] Such a structure is highly advantageous for the reasons described above, particularly in relation to the first aspect.

[0058] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0059]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0060] Referring to FIG. 2, a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generator 100 is shown. The aerosol generator 100 is suitable for receiving an aerosol substrate 102. The aerosol generator 100 is suitable for heating the aerosol substrate 102. For example, the aerosol generator 100 may include a chamber 104 in which the aerosol substrate 102 is received.

[0061] The aerosol substrate 102 may form part of a consumable or may be a consumable. The consumable may include the aerosol substrate 102. The consumable may include a body that houses the aerosol substrate 102.

[0062] The present invention is not limited to the specific aerosol generator 100 or aerosol substrate 102 described herein, provided that the aerosol generator 100 or aerosol substrate 102 complies with the appended claims. That is, the description of the aerosol generator 100 and aerosol substrate 102 is provided for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will understand that alternative structures of aerosol generators and consumables are compatible with the present invention.

[0063] As used herein, the term "aerosol substrate" is a label used to mean a medium that generates an aerosol or vapor when heated. This can be synonymous with a smokable material or an aerosol-generating medium. An aerosol substrate typically includes a liquid or solid material that provides volatile components upon heating, in the form of a vapor or aerosol. The aerosol substrate can be a tobacco-free material or a tobacco-containing material. The aerosol substrate can include, for example, one or more of tobacco itself, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco extracts, homogenized tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol substrate can also include other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. The aerosol substrate can include one or more humectants such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0064] The aerosol-generating device 100 includes a housing 106. The housing 106 can be an external casing or other structure for housing the components of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0065] The aerosol-generating device 100 includes a heating circuit 108. In one example, the heating circuit 108 is for heating the aerosol substrate 102.

[0066] The heating circuit 108 includes a heater assembly 110. The heater assembly 110 is configured to heat the aerosol substrate 102 when the aerosol substrate 102 is received by the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0067] The heater assembly 110 includes at least one heater 112. In one example, the heater assembly 110 includes a single heater 112. In a further example, the heater assembly 110 includes a plurality of heaters 112.

[0068] In one example, the aerosol substrate 102 is a liquid, and at least one heater 112 includes heating elements such as a coil, a ceramic heater, a planar resistance heater, a mesh heater, a MEMS heater, an induction heater, etc., configured to aerosolize the liquid for inhalation. Liquid delivery elements or mechanisms such as a porous material, a capillary system, and / or a valve may transfer the liquid to the heating element during use. In some examples, the aerosolized liquid may pass through a solid substrate within the aerosol generating device 100. In other examples, the aerosol substrate 102 may include a solid aerosol substrate.

[0069] In one example, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a spray engine such as a vibrating mesh for heating a liquid to generate an aerosol from the liquid.

[0070] The heater assembly 110 may include a chamber or volume. The chamber may be suitable for receiving the aerosol substrate 102 therein. That is, the chamber of the heater assembly 110 may be the chamber 104 of the aerosol generating device 100. The chamber may provide or define an oven. At least one heater 112 may be provided inside (i.e., within) the chamber or outside the chamber. That is, at least one heater 112 may be provided inside the oven or outside the oven.

[0071] The heating circuit 108 includes a fuse assembly 114.

[0072] The fuse assembly 114 may be located inside or outside the heater assembly 110. In one example, when the heater assembly 110 includes a chamber suitable for receiving the aerosol substrate 102 therein, the fuse assembly 114 may be located inside or outside the chamber.

[0073] The fuse assembly 114 is provided in thermal communication with the heater assembly 110. In other words, the fuse assembly 114 is arranged to be acted upon by the heat from the heater assembly 110. That is, the heat from the heater assembly 110 can cause a change in the characteristics or state of the fuse assembly 114. Thermal communication does not necessarily require direct contact with the heater assembly 110. That is, in one example, the fuse assembly 114 can be proximal to the heater assembly 110, can be in the vicinity of the heater assembly 110, or can be positioned to be acted upon by the heat from the heater assembly 110. The fuse assembly 114 can be calibrated at the location where it is provided so that direct contact is not required. Thermal communication by direct contact between the fuse assembly 114 and the heater assembly 110 can be advantageous in improving the response time and / or accuracy of the fuse assembly 114. That is, in one example, the fuse assembly 114 can be in direct contact with the heater assembly 110.

[0074] The fuse assembly 114 can be electrically connected to the heater assembly 110. In one example, the fuse assembly 114 is provided as a fuse assembly for the heater assembly 110. The fuse assembly 114 can determine whether power can be provided to the heater assembly 110 or to the heater of the heater assembly 110.

[0075] The fuse assembly 114 includes at least one resettable fuse 116. The resettable fuse may be referred to as a "resettable thermal fuse". Generally, any resettable fuse described herein may be a polymer positive temperature coefficient (PPTC) device. PPTC devices are well known in the art. PPTC devices may also be known as multi-fuses, or poly-fuses, or polyswitches. Below the cut-off temperature value, the resettable fuse 116 is in a conductive state, whereas above the cut-off temperature value, the resettable fuse 116 is in a high-resistance state. That is, below the cut-off temperature value, the resettable fuse 116 serves as a closed circuit, whereas above the cut-off temperature value, the resettable fuse 116 serves as an open circuit. The resettable fuse can transition from a closed circuit to an open circuit at the cut-off temperature value of a particular resettable fuse. The cut-off temperature value is a characteristic unique to each resettable fuse. The selection of an appropriate resettable fuse for a particular application will be well understood by those skilled in the art. It will be understood that the resettable fuse can automatically reset when the temperature falls below or when it has fallen below the cut-off temperature value.

[0076] The fuse assembly 114 is housed in the housing 106. In other words, the fuse assembly 114 including the resettable fuse 116 is provided in or on the aerosol generating device 100.

[0077] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a mouthpiece 118 for the user to suck the aerosol generating device 100 and inhale the generated aerosol. The mouthpiece 118 includes a vent hole or a flow path 120 connected to a region close to the aerosol substrate 102 for the passage of the aerosol generated from the aerosol substrate 102 during use. For example, the flow path 120 may extend between the opening of the mouthpiece 118 and the chamber 104 capable of receiving the aerosol substrate 102. The mouthpiece 118 is arranged so that it can be received in the user's mouth during use. In other examples, the mouthpiece 118 is not necessary, and a part of the consumable (for example, the main body containing the aerosol substrate 102) may protrude from the aerosol generating device 100.

[0078] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a control unit 122 (or a control circuit). The control unit 122 may be for the electronic management of the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit 122 may include a PCB or the like (not shown). The control unit 122 may include a memory for storing instructions and / or data therein. The control unit 122 may be configured to control the heating circuit 108. In one example, the heating circuit 108 includes the control unit 122. The control unit 122 may form a part of the heating circuit 108. The control unit 122 may be connected to the heating circuit 108 during use.

[0079] The aerosol generating device 100 may include an activation input sensor 124. The activation input sensor 124 may be a button, a touch pad, or the like for sensing a user input such as a tap or a swipe. In other examples, the activation input sensor 124 includes an aerosol substrate sensor configured to detect whether the aerosol substrate 102 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100. Additionally or alternatively, the user input may also include an inhalation action by the user.

[0080] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a puff sensor 126 (also known as an inhalation sensor). The puff sensor 126 is configured to detect an inhalation action (i.e., a puff) by a user on the aerosol generating device 100. In one example, the puff sensor 126 includes a microphone, a flow sensor, or a mass flow sensor configured for an air flow within the chamber 104 and / or within an air flow path extending from the chamber 104 through the mouthpiece 118 to its inhalation outlet, and the air flow is associated with the user's inhalation action. In other examples, the puff sensor 126 is configured to detect a change in pressure indicating the start of an inhalation action by the user on the aerosol generating device. In this case, the puff sensor 126 may be located at any location on the aerosol device 100 where a change in pressure occurs due to the user's inhalation action. In one example, the puff sensor 126 is located within the flow path 120 between the chamber 104 and the mouthpiece 118 of the aerosol generating device 100. The puff sensor 126 may also detect the end of an inhalation action by the user. For example, the puff sensor 126 may be configured to detect a further change in pressure due to the end of the user's inhalation action.

[0081] The control unit 122 may include a processor (e.g., a microcontroller unit (MCU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU)). The control unit 122 may be configured to receive data related to various sensors / inputs (such as the activation input sensor 124 and / or the puff sensor 126) of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0082] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a power source 128. The power source may be a battery. The power source may supply power to the aerosol generating device 100 to provide a voltage in the range of 1V to 4V. In a preferred embodiment, the voltage source is a lithium-ion secondary battery that delivers a value of 3.7V. Such a voltage source is particularly advantageous for modern aerosol generating devices from the perspective of rechargeability.

[0083] The power source 128 can be housed in the housing 106. The power source 128 can be permanently placed within the housing 106 or can be replaceable with another power source (e.g., by using a replaceable battery or the like). The power source 128 can supply power to the heating circuit 108. The heater assembly 110 can be energized by the power source 128. At least one heater 112 can be energized by the power source 128. The fuse assembly 114 can be electrically connected to the power source 128. The power source 128 can also be arranged to provide power to other electrical components of the aerosol generator 100. In one example, the heating circuit 108 includes the power source 128. In use, the power source 128 can supply power to the heating circuit 108. In one example, the power source 128 is already provided within the aerosol generator 100 and the heating circuit 108 can be connected to the power source 128 when the heating circuit 108 is used.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 3, a first configuration of the heating circuit 108 is schematically shown. The heating circuit 108 includes a heater assembly 110 having a first heater 112 and a fuse assembly 114 having a first resettable fuse 116.

[0085] The heating circuit 108 can further include a driver 140. The driver 140 can be configured to drive the heater 112. The driver 140 can send power to the heater 112 through the first resettable fuse 116.

[0086] The heating circuit 108 further includes the power source 128 and a control unit 122.

[0087] The first resettable fuse 116 has a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the target temperature of the heater assembly 110 during the operation of the aerosol generator 100. In use, the control unit 122 controls the driver 140 to provide power from the power supply 128 to the heater 112. The power is provided through the first resettable fuse 116. The heater 112 is controlled to provide heating to the target temperature of the heater assembly 110. When the target temperature is reached, the first resettable fuse 116 forms an open circuit, thereby blocking further power supply to the heater assembly 110. Accordingly, the heater assembly 110 is prevented from heating to a temperature exceeding the target temperature.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 4, a second configuration of the heating circuit 108 is schematically shown. The second configuration of the heating circuit 108 is identical to the first configuration described above in relation to FIG. 3, apart from the following differences. In the second configuration of the heating circuit 108, the fuse assembly 114 includes a resettable fuse 116 and a non-resettable fuse 150. The connection order of the resettable fuse 116 and the non-resettable fuse 150 can be reversed.

[0089] A non-resettable fuse is a disposable circuit protection device. A non-resettable fuse may be known as a "thermal fuse" or a "non-resettable thermal fuse". In contrast to a resettable fuse, when the temperature of a non-resettable fuse exceeds the cut-off temperature value, an open circuit is permanently formed. A non-resettable fuse does not reform a closed circuit (e.g., does not return to a low resistance state) when the temperature falls below or when it has fallen below the cut-off temperature.

[0090] In use, the control unit 122 controls the driver 140 to provide power from the power supply 128 to the heater 112. The power is provided through the resettable fuse 116 and the non-resettable fuse 150. The heater 112 is controlled to provide heating to the target temperature of the heater assembly 110. If the resettable fuse 116 fails to prevent further power supply to the heater assembly 110, resulting in the temperature of the heater assembly 110 continuing to rise above the target temperature, the non-resettable fuse 150 forms an open circuit to permanently terminate the power supply to the heater assembly 110. In that case, it may be necessary to replace the aerosol generator 100. As an example, this is very advantageous in protecting the safety of the user in case of damage to the insulation of the heater assembly 110.

[0091] The non-resettable fuse 150 may have a cut-off temperature value higher than at least one cut-off temperature value of at least one resettable fuse 116. That is, the resettable fuse 116 reaches the cut-off temperature value before the non-resettable fuse 150. When the heater assembly 110 continues to heat above the target temperature, the cut-off temperature value of the non-resettable fuse 150 is higher than the cut-off temperature value of the resettable fuse 150, so the non-resettable fuse 150 forms an open circuit.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 5, a third configuration of the heating circuit 108 is schematically shown. The third configuration is identical to the second configuration described above in connection with FIG. 3, except for the following differences. In the third configuration of the heating circuit 108, the fuse assembly 114 includes a plurality of resettable fuses 116a, 116b, and the heater assembly 110 includes a plurality of heaters 112a, 112b. The resettable fuses 116a, 116b may be referred to as a first resettable fuse 116a and a second resettable fuse 116b. The plurality of heaters 112a, 112b may be referred to as a first heater 112a and a second heater 112b.

[0093] Each heater 112a, 112b may be provided with resettable fuses 116a, 116b that are in thermal communication with their respective heaters 112a, 112b. That is, in this example, resettable fuses are associated with each heater. The first resettable fuse 116a is associated with the first heater 112a, and the second resettable fuse 116b is associated with the second heater 112b. In this way, each heater 112, 112b can be adjusted independently and operated at different target temperature values.

[0094] Each resettable fuse 116a, 116b has a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the target temperature of its respective heater 112a, 112b during operation of the aerosol generator. In one example, power can be provided to the first heater 112a to heat it to a first target temperature, at which temperature the first resettable fuse 116a forms an open circuit. Next, power can be provided to the second heater 112b to heat it from the first target temperature to a second target temperature, at which temperature the second resettable fuse 116b forms an open circuit.

[0095] The period during which power is provided to the first heater 112a (e.g., the period during which power is provided to the heater and which can be the "on" state of the heater) may be different from the period during which power is provided to the second heater 112b. In other examples, the period during which power is provided to the first heater 112a may partially or fully overlap the period during which power is provided to the second heater 112b. In yet other examples, each power to the first heater 112a and the second heater 112b is supplied intermittently so that the two periods do not overlap. By preventing power from being provided to the first heater 112a and the second heater 112b simultaneously, high-rate discharge of the power source 128 can be alleviated.

[0096] The fuse assembly 114 of the third configuration may include one or more non-resettable fuses 150. In one example, the fuse assembly 114 may include a single non-resettable fuse 150. The non-resettable fuse 150 may have a cut-off temperature value higher than the maximum target temperature of the heater assembly 110 (e.g., both the first target temperature and the second target temperature). That is, the non-resettable fuse 150 may be positioned to be exposed to the maximum target temperature within the aerosol generating device 100, such that if the heater assembly 110 continues to heat beyond the target temperature, the non-resettable fuse 150 forms an open circuit. In this example, the non-resettable fuse 150 is connected upstream of each resettable fuse 116a, 116b. Alternatively, the non-resettable fuse 150 may be connected downstream of the first resettable fuse 116a and / or the second resettable fuse 116b. When the non-resettable fuse 150 is connected downstream of each resettable fuse 116a, 116b, a plurality of non-resettable fuses 150 are provided.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 6, a fourth configuration of the heating circuit 108 is schematically shown. The fourth configuration is identical to the third configuration described above in connection with FIG. 5, apart from the following differences. In the fourth configuration of the heating circuit 108, the heater assembly 110 includes a single heater 112 that can be used at a plurality of target temperatures. The plurality of target temperatures may be suitable for different operating periods or stages in the aerosol generation process. The heating circuit 108 further includes a multiplexer 160. The multiplexer may alternatively be referred to as a power multiplexer. The multiplexer 160 operates as a switch controlled by the control unit 122 to send power to the selected resettable fuses 116a, 116b. The control unit 122 is configured to control the multiplexer 160 to selectively send power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses 116a, 116.

[0098] In use, the control unit 122 is configured to control the multiplexer 160 to selectively supply power to one of a plurality of resettable fuses 116a, 116b having a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the target temperature of the heater assembly 110 over the operating period of the aerosol generator 100.

[0099] For example, the target temperature of the heater assembly 110 over a first operating period may be a first target temperature, and the control unit 122 is configured to control the multiplexer 160 to selectively supply power to a first resettable fuse 116a having a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the first target temperature. When the first target temperature is reached, the first resettable fuse 116a forms an open circuit, so that no more power is supplied to the heater 112.

[0100] Thereafter, the target temperature of the heater assembly 110 over a second operating period may be a second target temperature (which may be higher or lower than the first target temperature), and the control unit 122 is configured to control the multiplexer 160 to selectively supply power to a second resettable fuse 116b having a cut-off temperature value corresponding to the second target temperature. When the second target temperature is reached, the second resettable fuse 116b forms an open circuit, so that no more power is supplied to the heater 112.

[0101] Generally, the control unit 122 controls the multiplexer 160 to supply power to the resettable fuses 116a, 116b corresponding to the target temperature over a specific operating period of the aerosol generator 100.

[0102] Instead of the multiplexer, a single-pole multi-throw (SPMT) switch (e.g., a single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switch) can be used.

[0103] Although not illustrated in FIG. 6, the heater assembly 110 may include a plurality of heaters 112a, 112b, and each heater is provided with resettable fuses 116a, 116b that are in thermal communication with the respective heaters 112a, 112b. The resettable fuses 116a, 116b may be referred to as a first resettable fuse 116a and a second resettable fuse 116b. The plurality of heaters 112a, 112b may be referred to as a first heater 112a and a second heater 112b. The control unit 122 is configured to control the multiplexer 160 to selectively supply power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses 116a, 116b corresponding to each heater that is operable to achieve the target temperature of the heater assembly 110 over the operating period of the aerosol generator 100.

[0104] For example, the target temperature of the heater assembly 110 over the first operating period may be the first target temperature provided by the first heater 112a. That is, the first heater 112a will operate to provide the first target temperature. The control unit 122 is configured to control the multiplexer 160 to selectively supply power to the first resettable fuse 116a corresponding to the first heater 112a that operates to achieve the first target temperature over the first operating period of the aerosol generator 100.

[0105] Thereafter, the target temperature of the heater assembly 110 over the second operating period may be the second target temperature provided by the second heater 112b. That is, the second heater 112b will operate to provide the second target temperature. The control unit 122 is configured to control the multiplexer 160 to selectively supply power to the second resettable fuse 116b corresponding to the second heater 112b that operates to achieve the second target temperature over the second operating period of the aerosol generator 100.

[0106] Exemplary circuit diagrams are illustrated and described in connection with FIGS. 7 - 12.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 7, a circuit diagram of a prior art heating circuit 708 is shown. A consumable or a cartomizer (cartridge and atomizer) is schematically shown at 700. The consumable 700 includes a heater 712 and a resettable fuse 716. That is, the consumable 700 includes the resettable fuse 716. The consumable 700 is connected to an aerosol generator to form the heating circuit 708.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 8, a circuit diagram of a heating circuit 108 corresponding to the first configuration described above in relation to FIG. 3 according to the present invention is shown. The heating circuit 108 includes a heater assembly 110 including a heater 112. The heating circuit 108 includes a resettable fuse 116. In contrast to the prior art heating circuit, the resettable fuse 116 is provided in the aerosol generator 100 and is not part of the consumable. In FIGS. 8 to 12, an MCU is illustrated as an example of the control unit 122, and a combination of a gate driver and a p-channel MOSFET is illustrated as an example of the driver 140. The LDO (low dropout regulator) receives the output of the power supply 128 and outputs the converted power to the MCU and the gate driver. Alternatively, the gate driver may be omitted. In this alternative embodiment, the p-channel MOSFET serves as the driver 140, and the MCU is configured to directly control the p-channel MOSFET. Alternatively or additionally, as a component of the driver 140, an n-channel MOSFET may be provided between the negative electrode of the heater assembly 110 and GND.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 9, a circuit diagram of a heating circuit 108 corresponding to the second configuration described above in relation to FIG. 4 according to the present invention is shown. The heating circuit 108 includes a heater assembly 110 including a heater 112. The heating circuit 108 includes a resettable fuse 116. The heating circuit 108 may also include a non-resettable fuse 150. Again, in contrast to the prior art heating circuit, the resettable fuse 116 is provided in the aerosol generator 100 and is not part of the consumable. The connection order of the resettable fuse 116 and the non-resettable fuse 150 may be reversed.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 10, there is shown a circuit diagram of a heating circuit 108 corresponding to the third configuration described above in connection with FIG. 5 according to the present invention. The heating circuit 108 includes a plurality of resettable fuses 116a, 116b. The heating circuit 108 includes a heater assembly 110 that includes a plurality of heaters 112a, 112b. The heating circuit may also include a non-resettable fuse 150. Again, in contrast to the heating circuits of the prior art, the resettable fuses 116 are provided in the aerosol generating device 100 and are not part of the consumable.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 11, there is shown a circuit diagram of a heating circuit 108 corresponding to the fourth configuration described above in connection with FIG. 6 according to the present invention. The heating circuit 108 includes a plurality of resettable fuses, in this example four resettable fuses 116a, 116b, 116c, 116d. The heating circuit 108 includes a heater assembly 110 that includes a single heater 112. However, in other examples, the heating circuit 108 may include a plurality of heaters. The heating circuit 108 includes a multiplexer 160. The heating circuit may also include a non-resettable fuse 150. Again, in contrast to the heating circuits of the prior art, the resettable fuses 116 are provided in the aerosol generating device 100 and are not part of the consumable. Note that the number of resettable fuses 160 in FIGS. 6 and 11 is merely an example. Those skilled in the art will understand alternative numbers of resettable fuses 160 by using a multiplexer or a single-pole multi-throw switch having an appropriate number of output pins.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 12, a circuit diagram of the heating circuit 108 according to the present invention is shown. The heating circuit 108 includes a heater assembly 110 that includes a single heater 112. However, in other examples, the heating circuit 108 may include multiple heaters. The heating circuit 108 includes a resettable fuse 116. Again, in contrast to prior art heating circuits, the resettable fuse 116 is provided in the aerosol generating device 100 and is not part of a consumable. The resettable fuse is connected to the gate terminal of a field effect transistor (e.g., MOSFET) indicated generally at 170. When the resettable fuse 116 forms an open circuit, the potential of the gate terminal of the field effect transistor is maintained at a high level by a pull-up resistor. Accordingly, the voltage between the source terminal and the gate terminal of the field effect transistor is below the threshold value and the field effect transistor is turned on.

[0113] Alternatively or additionally, an n-channel MOSFET connected between the negative electrode of the heater assembly 110 and GND can be provided. Such an n-channel MOSFET has a resettable fuse 116 connected between a gate driver and the gate terminal of the n-channel MOSFET. The gate terminal of the n-channel MOSFET is preferably connected to GND via a pull-down resistor.

[0114] The heating circuit 108 shown in FIG. 12 can be combined with the first to fourth configurations. When the heating circuit 108 shown in FIG. 12 is combined with the fourth configuration, each resettable fuse 116 is connected to the gate terminal of each MOSFET, and the multiplexer 160 sends power to any one of the source terminals of the MOSFETs.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 13, a schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system 800 is shown. The aerosol generation system 800 includes an aerosol generator 100 and an aerosol substrate 102. The aerosol generator 100 may include any of the features according to any of the above examples. The aerosol generator 100 is for receiving the aerosol substrate 102 and heating the aerosol substrate 102. The aerosol substrate can be received by the aerosol generator 100.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 14, a method of operating the aerosol generator 100 or the aerosol generation system 800 is shown. Step 910 includes receiving the aerosol substrate 102 in the aerosol generator 100. Step 920 uses a heating circuit 108, which includes a heater assembly 110 configured to heat the aerosol substrate 102 received by the aerosol generator 100, the heater assembly 110 including at least one heater 112, and a fuse assembly 114 provided in thermal communication with and electrically connected to the heater assembly 110, the fuse assembly 114 including at least one resettable fuse 116 and being housed in the housing 106 of the aerosol generator 100, to heat the aerosol substrate 102. This method may include any of the features or functions of the above-described aerosol generator 100 or aerosol generation system 800.

[0117] Although the preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims and described above.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device (100) for receiving an aerosol substrate (102) and heating the aerosol substrate (102), comprising: a housing (106); a heating circuit (108), comprising: a heater assembly (110) configured to heat the aerosol substrate (102) when the aerosol substrate (102) is received by the aerosol generating device (100), the heater assembly (110) including at least one heater (112); a fuse assembly (114) provided in thermal communication with and electrically connected to the heater assembly (110), the fuse assembly (114) including at least one resettable fuse (116) and being housed in the housing (106); the heating circuit (108); the aerosol generating device (100).

2. The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one resettable fuse (116) has a cut-off temperature value corresponding to a target temperature of the heater assembly (110) during operation of the aerosol generating device (100).

3. The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the heater assembly (110) includes a plurality of heaters (112a, 112b), and each heater is provided with a resettable fuse (116a, 116b) in thermal communication with the respective heater.

4. The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 3, wherein each resettable fuse (116a, 116b) has a cut-off temperature value corresponding to a target temperature of the respective heater (112a, 112b) during operation of the aerosol generating device (100).

5. The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one resettable fuse (116) is connected to a gate terminal of a field effect transistor (170).

6. The fuse assembly (114) includes a plurality of resettable fuses (116a, 116b), and the heating circuit further includes: a multiplexer (160); a control unit (122) configured to control the multiplexer to selectively supply power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses (116a, 116b). The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 1, further comprising

7. The control unit (122) is configured to control the multiplexer (160) to selectively supply power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses (116a, 116b) having a cutoff temperature value corresponding to a target temperature of the heater assembly (110) over an operating period of the aerosol generating device (100). The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 6.

8. The heater assembly (110) has a plurality of target temperatures, and the control unit is configured to control the multiplexer (160) to selectively supply power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses (116a, 116b) corresponding to the target temperature of the heater assembly (110) over an operating period of the aerosol generating device (100). The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 6.

9. The control unit (122) is configured to control the multiplexer (160) to selectively supply power to one of the plurality of resettable fuses (116a, 116b) corresponding to each heater (112a, 112b) operable to achieve the target temperature of the heater assembly (110) over an operating period of the aerosol generating device (100). The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 7.

10. The fuse assembly (114) further includes a non-resettable fuse (150). The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 1.

11. The non-resettable fuse (150) has a cutoff temperature value higher than at least one cutoff temperature value of at least one of the at least one resettable fuse (116a, 116b). The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 10.

12. The non-resettable fuse (150) has a cutoff temperature value higher than a highest target temperature of the heater assembly (110). The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 10.

13. The fuse assembly (114) is located inside or outside the heater assembly (110). The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 1.

14. An aerosol generating system (800), comprising An aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, and an aerosol substrate (102) An aerosol generating system (800) comprising.

15. A method of operating an aerosol generating device (100) or an aerosol generating system, comprising: Receiving an aerosol substrate (102) in the aerosol generating device (100); A heating circuit (108), A heater assembly (110) configured to heat the aerosol substrate (102) received by the aerosol generating device (100), the heater assembly (110) including at least one heater (112); A fuse assembly (114) provided in thermal communication with and electrically connected to the heater assembly (110), the fuse assembly (114) including at least one resettable fuse (116) and housed in the housing (106) of the aerosol generating device (100); Using a heating circuit (108) including the fuse assembly (114) to heat the aerosol substrate (102) A method comprising.

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