Apparatus for an aerosol-generating device

Abstract

To provide an apparatus for an aerosol-generating device.SOLUTION: A method and apparatus are described comprising controlling a resonant circuit of an aerosol-generating device comprising an inductor element to inductively heat a susceptor device to heat an aerosol-generating material and thereby generate an aerosol in a heating mode of operation, measuring a current flowing through the inductor element, and identifying one or more characteristics of the aerosol-generating device and / or susceptor device based on said measured current.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present specification relates to an apparatus for an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Smoking products such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco and produce smoke when used. Attempts have been made to create products that release compounds without combustion as an alternative to these items. For example, tobacco heating devices heat an aerosol-generating substrate, such as tobacco, to The aerosol is formed by heating the material without burning it. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In a first aspect, the present specification describes an apparatus for an aerosol generating device, the apparatus comprising: The aerosol generating material is heated by induction heating the susceptor device, thereby operating in a heating mode. A resonant circuit (such as an LC resonant circuit) containing an inductor element that generates an aerosol at a current sensor for measuring a current flowing through an inductor element; and One or more of aerosol generating devices, apparatus and susceptor apparatus based on and a processor for determining the at least one characteristic.

[0004] The one or more characteristics identified by the processor include the presence or absence of the susceptor device, one or more The fault condition or current may include whether the current matches the current of a given susceptor device.

[0005] The susceptor unit may be provided as a removable item. The one or more features identified may include properties of the removable article. The characteristics determined by the processor may include the presence or absence of the removable article.

[0006] Identifying the one or more characteristics includes determining whether the current exceeds a first threshold temperature and / or Identifying whether the temperature corresponds to a susceptor device having a temperature below a second threshold temperature. It may include.

[0007] In some embodiments, an alternating current is generated from a DC voltage supply 11 and flows through an inductor element. The first device can be used to induce induction heating of the susceptor device in a heating operation mode. It includes a switching section (such as an H-bridge circuit).

[0008] Some embodiments include applying an impulse to a resonant circuit, the applied impulse causing the resonant circuit to Induce an impulse response with a resonant frequency between the capacitor and inductor elements of the circuit an impulse generating circuit and an output signal that depends on one or more characteristics of the impulse response; and an output circuit for outputting the impulse response signal. The output signal may be indicative of a resonant frequency of the impulse response. The force signal may be used to provide a temperature measurement of the inductor element.

[0009] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a non-combustion device comprising any of the features of the first aspect described above. This document describes an aerosol generating device based on the method.

[0010] The aerosol-generating device is adapted to house a removable article containing an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may further comprise an aerosol-generating substrate and an aerosol The removable article may include the susceptor device.

[0011] In a third embodiment, the present invention provides a method for inductively heating a susceptor device to heat an aerosol-generating material, an aerosol generating device including an inductor element for generating aerosols in a heating operation mode; Controlling the resonant circuit of the device (such as an LC resonant circuit) and the current flowing through the inductor element measuring a current (e.g., in a heating operation mode); and (partially) based on one or more features of the aerosol-generating device and / or susceptor apparatus and identifying the

[0012] The one or more characteristics identified by the processor may include the presence or absence of the susceptor device, the characteristics of the detachable item, the presence or absence of said detachable item, one or more fault conditions, whether the current exceeds a first threshold temperature and / or or a susceptor having a temperature below a second threshold temperature, or The current flowing through the susceptor of the article may be matched to one or more of the current flowing through the susceptor of the article.

[0013] The method of the present invention includes applying an impulse to a resonant circuit, and the applied impulse causes a voltage drop across the resonant circuit. Inducing an impulse response with a resonant frequency between the capacitor and inductor elements of the path and generating an output signal that depends on one or more characteristics of the impulse response. That's fine.

[0014] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method for implementing the present invention in a computer, the method comprising: Computer readable instructions are provided for carrying out any of the methods described.

[0015] In a fifth aspect, the present specification provides a device comprising any of the structures of the first aspect above, or A non-combustion aerosol generating device comprising any of the structures of the second aspect of A kit of parts is described that includes items for use in a generation system. For example, it may be a removable article containing an aerosol-generating material.

[0016] In a sixth aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for manufacturing a heat pump assembly, comprising: inductively heating a susceptor assembly to generate a heat pump; an inductor element for heating an aerosol generating material, thereby generating an aerosol in a heating mode of operation; and controlling a resonant circuit of the aerosol generating device, and measuring the current and determining whether the aerosol is present based (at least in part) on the measured current. and identifying one or more characteristics of the generation device and / or susceptor apparatus. The present application describes a computer program containing instructions for:

[0017] Exemplary embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following schematic drawings: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a non-combustion based aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a non-combustion based aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an article for use with a non-combustion based aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a circuit according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 10] 1 shows a plot illustrating an exemplary use of an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a circuit according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 13] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 14] 1 is a plot illustrating an exemplary use of an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 15] 1 is a plot illustrating an exemplary use of an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 16] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 17] 17 is a plot illustrating an exemplary use of the algorithm of FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 20] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a circuit switching unit according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a circuit switching unit according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 23] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 24] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] As used herein, the term "delivery system" includes any system that delivers a substance to a user. intends to For cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars and pipes or for hand-rolled or homemade cigarettes Tobacco (including tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other smoking products) Combustible aerosol delivery systems, such as those based on smoke materials; E-cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and aerosolizable materials are used in combination to create aerosols. Aerosol-generating hybrid systems that do not burn aerosolizable materials, such as a non-combustion aerosol delivery system that releases compounds from an aerosolizable material; aerosolizable material and one of these non-combustible aerosol delivery systems Articles designed for use in one Does not include aerosols such as lozenges, gum, patches, or articles containing inhalable powders A delivery system and materials containing or not containing nicotine that do not form an aerosol and are used by the user This includes smokeless tobacco products such as snus and snuff, which provide

[0020] In this disclosure, a "combustible" aerosol delivery system is aerosolizable materials of the aerosol delivery system (or its components) It is a baking system.

[0021] In this disclosure, a "non-combustion" aerosol delivery system is used to facilitate delivery to the user. To this end, the constituent aerosolizable materials of the aerosol delivery system (or its components) It may be a combustion or non-combustion system.

[0022] In the embodiments described herein, the delivery system is a non-combustion based aerosol delivery system. systems, such as electrically powered non-combustion aerosol delivery systems.

[0023] In one embodiment, the non-combustion based aerosol delivery system is a vape device or an e-nicotine Electronic cigarettes, also known as end-on delivery systems (ENDs), contain aerosolizable materials. The presence of nicotine in the food is not a requirement.

[0024] In one embodiment, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system, also known as a heated tobacco system, It is a tobacco heating system that is used in

[0025] In one embodiment, the non-combustion based aerosol delivery system comprises a combination of aerosolizable materials. A hybrid system that generates aerosols using a combination of one or more materials Each of the aerosolizable materials can be, for example, a solid, a liquid, or or in the form of a gel, which may or may not contain nicotine. The lid system is compatible with liquid or gel aerosolizable materials and solid aerosolizable materials. Solid aerosolizable materials include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco-based materials. It may also include products.

[0026] Typically, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a combination of a non-combustion aerosol generating device and a non- The invention may include an article for use with a combustion-based aerosol delivery system. An article that itself contains a means for powering an aerosol-generating element is not itself a non-combustion-based engine. It is also envisioned to provide an aerosol delivery system.

[0027] In one embodiment, the non-combustion aerosol generating device includes a power source and a controller. The power source may be an electrical power source or a heat generating power source. In one embodiment, the power source is a heat generating power source. The power source delivers power in the form of heat to an aerosolizable material or heat transfer material adjacent thereto. In one embodiment, the carbon substrate may be heated by applying energy thereto. A power source, such as a power source, is provided to the article to form a non-combustion based aerosol supply.

[0028] In one embodiment, the article for use with a non-combustion based aerosol generating device comprises an aerosol. Solizable material, aerosol-generating component, aerosol-generating area, mouthpiece and / or or may include an area for containing an aerosolizable material.

[0029] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component interacts with the aerosolizable material to generate air. One or more volatile substances can be released from the aerosolizable material to form an aerosol. In one embodiment, the aerosol is heated from an aerosolizable material. For example, the aerosol-generating member can generate an aerosol without from the meltable material without applying heat to it, e.g. by vibration, mechanical, pressure or electrostatic means Aerosols can be generated.

[0030] In one embodiment, the aerosolizable material comprises an active agent, an aerosol-forming material, and optionally The active ingredient may include one or more of the following functional ingredients: nicotine (optionally tobacco or tobacco derivatives) The present invention may also include a microbial agent (contained in living organisms) and one or more other odorless physiologically active materials. The physiologically active material is aerosolizable to achieve a physiological response other than olfactory sensation. It is a material contained in the material.

[0031] Aerosol forming materials include glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol Ethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene Glycol, Erythritol, Meso-erythritol, Ethyl Vanillate, Ethyl Laureth Citrate, diethyl base, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl Benzoate, phenylbenzyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristate The additives may include one or more of stearic acid and propylene carbonate.

[0032] The one or more functional ingredients may be a flavoring agent, a carrier, a pH regulator, a stabilizer, and / or may contain one or more antioxidants.

[0033] In one embodiment, the article for use with a non-combustion based aerosol generating device comprises an aerosol. It may include an area for containing a soliZable or aerosoliZable material. In one embodiment, the article for use with a non-combustion based aerosol delivery device comprises a mouthpiece. The region for containing the aerosolizable material may include an aerosolizable In one embodiment, the aerosolizable material may be a storage area for storing the aerosolizable material. The area for containing the aerosol-removable material may be separated from the aerosol-generating area or may be assembled They may be combined.

[0034] Aerosolizable materials, also referred to herein as aerosol-generating materials, can be aerosolized by, for example, heating, irradiating, or Materials capable of generating aerosols when fired or otherwise activated The aerosolizable material may, for example, contain nicotine and / or flavoring agents or In some embodiments, the aerosolized form may be a solid, liquid, or gel. Possible materials may include "amorphous solids," which are alternatively called "monolithic solids." In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that holds a fluid, such as a liquid, within it.

[0035] The aerosolizable material may be present on a substrate. The substrate may be, for example, paper, cardboard, Paperboard, cardboard, recycled aerosolizable materials, plastic materials, ceramic materials, composite materials The material may be or include glass, metal or metal alloy.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system generally designated by the reference numeral 1, according to an exemplary embodiment. The system 1 includes a current sensor 5, a resonant circuit 6, a susceptor device 3, and a processor 4. nothing.

[0037] The resonant circuit 6 includes a capacitor and one or more inductors that inductively heat the susceptor unit 3. The aerosol-generating material may be heated by an element, which heats the aerosol-generating material. This generates aerosols.

[0038] The current sensor 5 may measure the current flowing through one or more inductor elements of the resonant circuit 6. The resonant circuit 6 and the current sensor 5 may be combined within the induction heating device 2. The heating device 2 may be coupled to a processor 4. The processor 4 receives measurements from the current sensor. The controller may receive information regarding the measured current.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system generally designated 10, according to an exemplary embodiment. The system 10 comprises a power supply in the form of a direct current (DC) voltage supply 11, a switching element 13, a resonant The switching section includes a circuit 14, a current sensor 15, a susceptor section 16, and a processor 18. 13, the resonant circuit 14 and the current sensor 15 may be combined within an induction heating device.

[0040] Resonant circuit 14 (similar to resonant circuit 6) inductively heats susceptor device 16 to generate aerosols. The heating element may include a capacitor and one or more inductor elements for heating the heating material.

[0041] The switching unit 13 can generate an AC current from the DC voltage supply unit 11. The current flows through one or more inductor elements of the resonant circuit 14, causing heating of the susceptor unit 16. The switching unit 13 may include multiple transistors. The device may include, for example, an H-bridge or inverter circuit, examples of which are described later. It should be noted that the provision of a DC voltage supply 11 from which a pseudo AC signal is generated is an essential feature. For example, a controllable AC power supply or an AC-AC converter may be provided. Therefore, an AC input can be provided (eg from the mains or an inverter).

[0042] An exemplary configuration of the switching section 13 and resonant circuit 14 will be discussed in more detail below with reference to FIG. do.

[0043] 3 and 4 illustrate a non-combustion aerosol, generally designated by the reference numeral 20, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device 20A with an outer cover. The aerosol generating device 20A includes a replaceable item 21, which includes (or elsewhere) to allow heating of the susceptor. The aerosol generating device 20A can be inserted into the aerosol generating device 20A. An activation switch 22 used to switch the power device 20A on and off Another component of the aerosol generating device 20 is shown in FIG.

[0044] FIG. 4 shows the aerosol generating device 20B with the outer cover removed. The raw device 20B includes an item 21, a start switch 22, and a plurality of inductor elements 23a, 23b, and b, and 23c, and one or more air tube extensions 24 and 25. Air tube extensions 24 and 25 are not required.

[0045] The plurality of inductor elements 23a, 23b, and 23c are each The inductor element 23a may form part of a resonant circuit. In one example, the spiral inductor coil may be wound in a spiral shape. It is made of Litz wire / cable that provides an inductance formed in the printed circuit board. Many alternative inductor configurations are possible, such as inductors. may be similar to the inductor element 23a. The three inductor elements 23a, 23b The use of 23c is not required for all exemplary embodiments. It follows that the sol generating device 20 may include one or more inductor elements.

[0046] A susceptor may be provided as part of item 21. In an exemplary embodiment, item 2 1 into the aerosol generating device 20 to activate the aerosol generating device 20. This can be done by measuring the aerosol generation using a suitable sensor (e.g., an optical sensor). Detecting the presence of an article 21 in the device or whether the susceptor forms part of the article 21 In this case, this is done, for example, by detecting the presence of a susceptor using a resonant circuit 14. When the aerosol generating device 20 is activated, the inductor element 23 In another embodiment, the susceptor can be inductively heated by air. As part of the electrosol generating device 20 (e.g., one of the holding portions for receiving the article 21), It may be established as a department.

[0047] FIG. 5 illustrates a non-combustion based aerosol generating device for use with an exemplary embodiment. 1 is a view of an article generally designated by reference numeral 30. Article 30 is the same as that described above with reference to FIGS. This is an example of the exchangeable item 21 described above.

[0048] The article 30 comprises a mouthpiece 31 and an aerosol-generating material connected to the mouthpiece 31. 33, in this case a cylindrical rod of tobacco material. The aerosol-generating material 33 is , non-combustion-based aerosols, such as aerosol generating devices 20, as described herein. When heated in the generating device, the aerosol-generating material 33 generates an aerosol. The wrapper 32 is, for example, a paper or paper-backed metal foil wrapper. The wrapper 32 is substantially impermeable to air.

[0049] In one embodiment, the wrapper 32 comprises aluminum foil. The aluminum foil is then coated with the aerosol-generating material 33. It has been found to be particularly effective in promoting the formation of aerosols within the Lumifoil has a metal layer approximately 6 μm thick. The aluminum foil is backed with a paper backing. However, in other arrangements the aluminum foil may have other thicknesses, e.g., 4 μm to 16 μm. Aluminum foil does not necessarily need to be backed with paper, but for example, It may or may not be backed with other materials to provide adequate tensile strength. Metal layers or foils other than aluminum may also be used. For example, such a metal layer may be provided as part of device 20. It may be provided as

[0050] The aerosol-generating material 33, also referred to herein as the aerosol-generating substrate 33, comprises at least It contains one aerosol-forming material, which in this example is glycerin. In another example, the aerosol-forming material may be another material or mixture thereof as described herein. The aerosol-forming material may be an aerosol of a compound such as a flavor compound. It has been shown to improve the sensory performance of products by aiding in the transfer of volatile compounds from source to consumer. There are.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 5, the mouthpiece 31 of the article 30 is adjacent to the aerosol-generating substrate 33. and a downstream end 31b distal to the aerosol-generating substrate 33. The fumes-generating substrate includes tobacco, although substitutions are possible.

[0052] The mouthpiece 31 is located upstream of the hollow tubular member 34, in this example. The body of material 36 and the hollow tubular member 36 are in an adjacent, abutting relationship. 4 each define a substantially cylindrical overall outer shape and share a common longitudinal axis. The body of material 36 is wrapped in a first plug wrapper 37. 7 may have a basis weight of less than 50 gsm, such as between about 20 gsm and 40 gsm.

[0053] In this example, the hollow tubular member 34 is a first hollow tubular member 34, and the mouthpiece is Upstream of the first hollow tubular member 34 is a second hollow tubular member 38, also referred to as a cooling member. In this example, a second hollow tubular member 38 abuts the upstream body of material 36. The body of material 36 and the second hollow tubular member 38 each have a substantially cylindrical overall shape. The second hollow tubular member 38 defines an outer shape and shares a common longitudinal axis. The tubular member 38 is made from multiple layers of paper that are butted together at the seams. In some examples, the first and second paper layers are provided in a two-ply tube, while in other examples, three, four or More paper layers can be used to form 3-ply, 4-ply or more ply pipes. Formed using spirally wound layers of paper, cardboard tubes, and paper mache tube processes. Other constructions such as molded or extruded plastic tubing can be used. The second hollow tubular member 38 also includes a second plug wrapper 39 and / or or tipping paper 35 using stiff plug wrapper and / or tipping paper This means that a separate tubular member is not required.

[0054] A second hollow tubular member 38 is disposed around the mouthpiece 31, which functions as a cooling section. The aerosol-generating material 33 defines a cavity within the mouthpiece 31. The second hollow tubular portion provides a chamber through which the heated volatile components can flow. The material 38 is hollow to provide an aerosol accumulation chamber, but is sufficiently rigid to allow for easy assembly during manufacture. and withstands axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during use of the article 21. The second hollow tubular member 38 is made of the aerosol-generating material 33 and the material body 36. The physical displacement provided by the second hollow tubular member 38 provides a temperature gradient throughout the length of the second hollow tubular member 38.

[0055] Of course, article 30 is provided by way of example only. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the advantages of the article 30 described herein. We are aware of many alternative arrangements of such items that can be used in the system.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a circuit generally designated by the reference numeral 40, according to an exemplary embodiment. Circuit 40 has a positive terminal 47 and a negative (ground) terminal 48 (which are connected to the system 10 described above). The circuit 40 includes a switching unit 44 (which is an example of the implementation of the DC voltage supply 11 described above). The switching unit 44 includes a bridge circuit (e.g., F The switching unit 44 includes a first circuit component (an H-bridge circuit such as an ET H-bridge circuit). a first circuit branch 44a and a second circuit branch 44b; Branch 44b is coupled by resonant circuit 49 (implementing resonant circuit 14 above). The first circuit branch 44a includes switches 45a and 45b, and the second circuit branch 44b includes switches 45a and 45b. The switches 45a, 45b, 45c and 45d are a transistor, such as a field effect transistor (FET), that controls the control circuit 18 of the system 10. The resonant circuit 49 can receive input from a control device such as The circuit 40 includes a capacitor 46 and an inductor element 43 so as to be a C resonant circuit. a current sensor 50 (as described above) for measuring the current flowing through the inductor element 43; 15). Circuit 40 further shows a susceptor equivalent circuit 42 (which The susceptor equivalent circuit 42 is an example of a susceptor portion. 16 electrical effects. If a susceptor is present, The transformer 42 and the susceptor element 43 can function as a transformer 41. 1 generates a varying magnetic field so that the susceptor heats up when the circuit 40 receives power. During the heating operation in which the susceptor unit 16 is heated by the induction unit, the switching unit 4 4 is a resonant circuit 14 in which the first and second branches are alternately connected to each other so that an alternating current flows through the resonant circuit 14. The resonant circuit 14 is driven (e.g., by control circuit 18) to flow. The control circuit 18 has a resonant frequency based on the section 16, and the control circuit 18 is at or near the resonant frequency. The switching circuit is configured to control the switching unit 44 so that the switching is performed at a frequency. Driving at or near resonance improves efficiency, reducing the energy lost in the switching elements ( This reduces unnecessary heating of the switch element. In the example where the switching element 44 is heated, the switching element 44 is driven at a frequency of about 2.5 MHz. In other implementations, the frequency may be anywhere between 500 kHz and 4 MHz, for example. .

[0057] A susceptor is a material that can be heated by passing a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field, through it. The heating material may be an electrically conductive material, so that its penetration by the varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, so that its penetration by the fluctuating magnetic field is This causes hysteresis heating. The heating material can be either conductive or magnetic, so The heating material can be heated by both heating mechanisms.

[0058] Induction heating is a process of heating a conductive object by penetrating it with a fluctuating magnetic field. This process can be explained by Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction and Ohm's law. An induction heater consists of an electromagnet and a variable current such as an alternating current that flows through the electromagnet. The object to be heated and the electromagnet are connected by the When placed in the right relative position so that the fluctuating magnetic field penetrates this object, one This object has a resistance to the flow of current. When such eddy currents occur in an object, they flow against the object's electrical resistance, This process can be called Joule heating, Ohmic heating, or resistive heating. This is called heating. The object that can be inductively heated is known as a susceptor.

[0059] In one embodiment, the susceptor is in the form of a closed circuit. In the case of a circuit configuration, the magnetic coupling between the susceptor and the electromagnet during use is enhanced, resulting in It was found that the tube heating was greater or improved.

[0060] Magnetic hysteresis heating occurs when a fluctuating magnetic field penetrates an object made of magnetic material. Magnetic materials contain many atomic-scale magnets, or magnetic dipoles. When a magnetic field penetrates such a material, the magnetic dipole They align with magnetic fields, such as those produced by electromagnets. When a fluctuating magnetic field penetrates a magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes according to the applied fluctuating magnetic field. This reorientation of magnetic dipoles generates heat within the magnetic material.

[0061] When an object is both conductive and magnetic, a fluctuating magnetic field penetrates the object. It is possible to induce both Joule heating and magnetic hysteresis heating in the body. The use of magnetic materials can enhance the fluctuating magnetic field, thereby enhancing Joule heating. It is possible.

[0062] In each of the above processes, heat is generated by an external heat source through thermal conduction. occurs within the object itself, rather than through the air, resulting in a faster temperature rise and more uniform heat distribution within the object. This can be achieved by, among other things, choosing the material and the geometry of the object appropriately and This can be achieved by appropriately choosing the magnitude and orientation of the fluctuating magnetic field relative to the object. Furthermore, in induction heating and magnetic hysteresis heating, a physical barrier is created between the source of the fluctuating magnetic field and the object. Since there is no need to provide any special connections, the degree of freedom in design and the controllability of the heating profile are improved. Both can reduce costs.

[0063] 7-9 illustrate various arrangements, generally designated by reference numerals 60, 70, and 80, according to exemplary embodiments. Figures 7-9 are flowcharts of the algorithm. It may also be useful to see this in conjunction with Figure 2).

[0064] With respect to algorithm 60 of FIG. 7, operation 61 controls the resonant circuit of the aerosol generating device. The resonant circuit may include one or more inductor elements. The inductor element is used to inductively heat the susceptor device and heat the aerosol generating material. The heating of the aerosol-generating material may be performed by the heating operation of the aerosol-generating device. For example, the resonant circuit 14 of the system 10 may generate an aerosol in a pro In operation 62, the current flowing through the inductor element is measured by a current sensor. For example, the current flowing through one or more inductor elements of the resonant circuit 14 is measured by a current sensor. In operation 63, the aerosol generating device and / or the aerosol determining one or more characteristics of the apparatus for the generating device based at least in part on the measured current; may be specified.

[0065] With respect to algorithm 70 of FIG. 8, operations 61 and 62 of algorithm 60 of FIG. In operation 71 of algorithm 70, the susceptor device 1 is The presence or absence of a susceptor device, such as processor 18, is determined based on the measured current. If a susceptor device is not present (e.g., if a removable item is If not present), the resonant circuit will read a very low resistance, resulting in a high current flowing. Therefore, the detection of a high current indicates the absence of a susceptor device. An exemplary implementation is further described with reference to FIG.

[0066] With respect to algorithm 80 of FIG. 9, operations 61 and 62 of algorithm 60 of FIG. 7 are similar. Operations 61 and 62 are performed. Operation 81 of algorithm 80 determines whether the measured current exceeds a threshold level. In operation 82, a susceptor such as susceptor unit 16 is used to determine whether the temperature is above or below the threshold. The presence or absence of a processor device is determined based on whether the measured current is above or below a threshold level. For example, if the measured current exceeds a threshold level, If the measured current is below the threshold level, the susceptor device is identified as not present. If so, the susceptor device is identified as being present in the aerosol-generating device.

[0067] the aerosol-generating device and / or aerosol-generating devices identified in operation 63 One or more features of the device for use may take many forms. The features may include the presence or absence of a susceptor or removable article. Additionally or additionally, the features may include one or more of the options discussed below.

[0068] The one or more characteristics identified in operation 63 may include one or more fault conditions. The fault condition may relate to incorrect operation of the aerosol generating device, for example. The measured current level indicates that one or more components of the aerosol-generating device are operating normally as expected. may indicate that the device is not functioning properly or is not functioning at all. Check whether the removable item is correctly inserted into the aerosol-generating device (correct whether it is inserted correctly and / or fully inserted), Generally, the measured current is not in a fault condition. The current is compared to the expected current value, which is the value that would be obtained or specified in the absence of the The amount of current drawn depends on other parameters or operating conditions of the device (e.g., if the device whether you are trying to achieve one of many temperatures or power supplied to the heating circuit) The measured current value is the expected current value alone and the measured value is the expected current value. In other instances, the measured current value is compared to determine whether it is higher or lower. The range of expected current values ​​and whether the measured current value is within the range of expected current values. are compared against some specific

[0069] The one or more characteristics identified in operation 63 may be used to determine whether the measured current is This includes whether the current of a predefined source matches that of the inserted object. The device is a genuine part of a genuine article produced by a genuine and traditional manufacturer. For example, the aerosol-generating device may be compatible with the inserted article and The operation of the aerosol generating device is optimized when a compatible authentic item is inserted. When the real article is used, the current that flows through the inductor element of the aerosol generating device The current is known as the threshold current level. In operation 63, the current is matched to the threshold current level. In this case, the inserted susceptor is similar to the predefined susceptor device, and the inserted susceptor Any item that corresponds to the current threshold level is identified as a compatible authentic item. If the rule does not match, the inserted susceptor does not resemble the predefined susceptor device. The article corresponding to the inserted susceptor is identified as not being a compatible authentic article. The current values ​​measured above are the expected current values ​​alone and the measured values ​​are expected. In other cases, the measured current is compared to determine whether it is higher or lower than the measured current. The current value is within the range of expected current values ​​and the measured current value is within the range of expected current values. The value is compared to determine whether it is in the

[0070] The one or more characteristics identified in operation 63 may be a temperature characteristic that indicates when the measured current exceeds a first threshold temperature. and / or whether it coincides with a susceptor device having a temperature below a second threshold temperature. For example, the aerosol-generating device may be a susceptor, as discussed in more detail below. It may include a temperature sensing device to measure temperature or may be based on impulse response. In one example, the temperature of the susceptor exceeds a first threshold temperature. and / or preferably below a second threshold temperature. The temperature sensor in the aerosol generating device detects the high temperature. When removed from the aerosol generating device (when hot), the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the susceptor. This depends in large part on the details of how the temperature is sensed. In some cases, the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is In other implementations, a temperature sensor or impulse Temperature sensor algorithms such as response-based temperature measurement are used to measure the temperature of the hot susceptor and As discussed above, current measurements may not be able to distinguish between the presence and absence of a susceptor. Therefore, the current measurement may be used to determine the presence or absence of a a susceptor device having a temperature above a first threshold temperature and / or below a second threshold temperature; By identifying whether the temperature sensor accurately indicates the susceptor temperature, This may be used to check if the susceptor is still in place or if it has been removed. This means that the aerosol generating device is preferably switched off or The heating mode of the generator is switched off when there is no susceptor, which acts as a safety mechanism. For example, a current sensor can be used to distinguish between a hot susceptor and a no susceptor condition. (This condition may be used to generate similar impulse responses in some situations.) These situations require the use of only the temperature detection algorithm, as discussed in more detail below. (It is difficult to distinguish between them just by looking at the

[0071] FIG. 10 is a plot generally designated 100 illustrating an exemplary use of an exemplary embodiment. Plot 100 shows the current sensor output plotted against time (microseconds). Plot 100 shows the susceptor output. First plot 101 shows the output without the susceptor. A second plot where the susceptor is relatively hot and a third plot where the susceptor is relatively cool.

[0072] These plots show that in this example, when there is no susceptor, the current sensor output is large, This clearly shows that the vibration lasts longer. Therefore, the current sensor output is a measure of the susceptor's This can be used to provide information.

[0073] FIG. 11 is a flow chart generally designated by the reference numeral 240 illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. This is a flow chart.

[0074] The algorithm 240 determines whether one or more impulses are present in the induction heating circuit (see system 10 described above). The operation begins with operation 241, in which a voltage is applied to a resonant circuit (such as resonant circuit 14). In operation 242, one or more In operation 243, the inductor element is determined (as discussed further below). The current flowing through the element is measured (e.g., using current sensor 15). One or more performance characteristics of the system are determined based on the measured current.

[0075] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a system generally designated by the reference numeral 300, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. This system 300 is similar to the resonant circuit 14 and susceptor 16 of the system 10 described above. The system 300 includes an impulse generation circuit 302 and an impulse response processor. The impulse generation circuit 302 and the impulse response processor 304 are also included. 04 may be implemented as part of the control circuitry 18 of the system 10, and the above-described algorithm Operations 241 and 242 of 240 may be performed.

[0076] The impulse generating circuit 302 generates impulses by switching between positive and negative voltage sources. , is implemented using a first switching unit (such as an H-bridge circuit). For example, see FIG. 6. As will be further explained below, the switching unit 44 described above may be used. The pulse generating circuit 302 controls the switching state of the FET of the switching unit 44 by the switches 45b and and 45d are both turned on (so that the switching section is grounded) and switch 45a and 45b are disconnected from the first and second circuit branches 44a and 44b. The impulse is generated by changing the switching state of one of the switches to the opposite state. Alternatively, the impulse generating circuit 302 may be a pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit. Other impulse generation arrangements are possible.

[0077] The impulse response processor 304 calculates the resonant circuit 14 and One or more performance metrics (or characteristics) of the susceptor 16 may be identified. Such performance metrics include the characteristics of an item (such as a removable item21), the These include presence or absence, type of item, and operating temperature.

[0078] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating an algorithm generally designated by reference numeral 310, according to an exemplary embodiment. Algorithm 310 illustrates an example of the use of system 300.

[0079] The algorithm 310 determines whether the impulse (generated by the impulse generator circuit 302) is resonant. Beginning with operation 312, which is applied to circuit 14, FIG. 3 shows an example impulse applied in operation 312.

[0080] The impulse may be applied to the resonant circuit 14. Alternatively, a resonant circuit having multiple inductor elements may be used. In a system (such as the non-combustion aerosol device 20 described above with reference to Figures 3 and 4) The impulse generating circuit 302 can select one of a plurality of resonant circuits, and each resonant circuit The oscillation circuit includes an inductor element and a capacitor that inductively heats the susceptor. The impulse generated is the impulse response between the capacitor and the inductor element of the selected resonant circuit. Lead to the answer.

[0081] In operation 314, an impulse response generated in response to the impulse applied in operation 312 is Based on the answer, an output is generated (by the impulse response processor 304). A plot generally designated by reference numeral 325 shows an impulse response in response to an impulse 320. 15 shows an exemplary impulse response received by the processor 304. The impulse response may take the form of a ringing resonance. This is the result of charge bouncing between the inductor and capacitor in 14. In one configuration, the result is Therefore, no heating of the susceptor occurs, i.e., the temperature of the susceptor remains substantially constant. (For example, within ±1°C or ±0.1°C of the temperature before applying the impulse).

[0082] At least some of the characteristics of the impulse response (such as the frequency and decay rate of the impulse response) are It provides information about the system to which the impulse is applied, and is therefore discussed further below. As will be appreciated, system 300 may be used to control one or more systems to which an impulse is applied. For example, fault conditions, characteristics of inserted items 21, etc. The presence or absence of such an item 21, whether the item 21 is genuine, and one or more performance characteristics such as operating temperature The system's characteristics can be determined based on the output signal derived from the impulse response. 300 uses one or more identified characteristics of the system 10 to, for example, 16, further operations are performed (or required) using the system 10 to perform the heating. For example, based on a specified operating temperature, The system 300 supplies the induction device with heat to cause further heating of the susceptor device. You can select the power level to be applied, or whether power should be applied at all. Some performance characteristics, such as the accuracy of the system's measured performance, may be different from those of the original or the identification of whether an item is genuine. Compare the characteristic (measured using an impulse response) to the expected value or range of values ​​of the characteristic and Actions taken by the system 300 may be performed based on the comparison.

[0083] FIG. 16 illustrates an algorithm generally designated by reference numeral 330, according to an exemplary embodiment. In operation 332 of algorithm 330, the impulse is is applied to the resonant circuit 14 by the generating circuit 302. Therefore, operation 332 is the same as the operation described above. It is the same as work 312.

[0084] In operation 334 of algorithm 330, the induced voltage in response to the applied impulse is The period of the impulse response to be generated is determined by the impulse response processor 304. Then, in operation 336, an output (based on the identified period of the impulse response) is generated. do.

[0085] FIG. 17 is a block diagram, generally designated by reference numeral 340, illustrating an example of the use of algorithm 330. Plot 340 shows the impulse applied to resonant circuit 14 by impulse generating circuit 302. The application of the impulse 342 triggers the operation of the algorithm 330. Operation 332 is performed. Impulse response 344 is derived in response to the applied impulse. The impulse 342 is maintained at its final state (high in plot 340) during the measurement. For example, applying a high-low impulse (and holding it low) (It can be)

[0086] The impulse response processor 304 generates a signal 346 that indicates the ends of the impulse response 334. As will be further explained below, signal 346 is generated by a comparator and There may be a delay between the occurrence of the signal and the generation of the signal. If consistent, the delay is may not be important to you.

[0087] In operation 334 of algorithm 330, the period of the impulse response is determined. The gap is indicated by arrow 348 in FIG.

[0088] In operation 336 of algorithm 330, an output is generated based on the identified period 348. The output signal is therefore a signal that is generated from the first end of the impulse and the end of the impulse response. The output signal is based on the time interval from the second end of the input to the second end of the input. The output signal depends on the time interval of the voltage oscillations of the impulse response. Indicates the vibration frequency.

[0089] In some embodiments, the period 348 is temperature dependent. The output may be a temperature estimate.

[0090] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a system generally designated by reference numeral 350, according to an exemplary embodiment. The system 350 is a block diagram for performing the operation 336 of the algorithm 330 described above. Used for.

[0091] The system 350 includes an edge detection circuit 352, a current source 353, and a sample and hold circuit. The input circuit 354 is included.

[0092] Edge detection circuitry 352 identifies the edges of a signal, such as impulse response signal 344 described above. Therefore, the edge detection circuit 352 converts the signal 346 into The edge detection circuit 352 may be, for example, a comparator or some other It can be implemented using a variety of circuits.

[0093] The edge detection circuit 352 provides an enable signal to the current source 353. When connected, a current source 253 can be used to generate an output (such as a voltage output across a capacitor). The current source has a discharge input that acts as a reset input. The current source output is The output of the edge detection circuit 352 can be used to indicate the duration since it enabled the current source. Therefore, the current source output can be used as an indication of the duration (e.g., pulse duration). It can be used as such.

[0094] A sample and hold circuit 354 is used to measure the output of the current source 353 at a particular time. The sample and hold circuit can generate an output signal based on a reference input The sample-and-hold circuit converts the capacitor voltage to a digital output. It can be used as an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to convert other systems The system may use other suitable electronic components, such as a voltmeter, to measure the voltage.

[0095] The system 350 may be implemented using a charge time measurement unit (CTMU), e.g., an integrated CTMU. will be done.

[0096] FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a system generally designated by the reference numeral 360, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. System 360 includes CTMU features that can be used in exemplary embodiments. show.

[0097] The system 360 includes a reference voltage generator 151, a comparator 152, an edge detection module 153, and a , a current source control 154, a constant current source 155, and an analog output 156 that provides a data bus with a data output 157. A log-to-digital converter 156, and an external capacitor 158, as further described below. A voltage generator 151, a comparator 152, and an edge detection module 153 are used to , the edge detection circuit 352 described above can be implemented, and the current source controller 154 and constant Current source 155 can be used to implement current source 353, and further analog-to-digital The converter 156 can be used to implement the sample and hold circuit 354 described above. do.

[0098] The impulse response generated by operations 314 and 334 above is applied to the input of comparator 152. The impulse response is compared with the output of the reference voltage generator 151. If the pulse response is greater than the reference voltage, a logic high signal is output, and the impulse If the response is less than the reference voltage, it outputs a logic low signal (or vice versa). The output of the comparator 152 is supplied to the input (IN2) of the edge detection circuit 153. The other input (IN1) of the detection circuit 153 is a firmware controlled input. 153 (which can simply be a selectable RS flip-flop) is the output of comparator 152. The edge detection circuit 153 generates an enable signal that depends on the identity of the edge of the detected The nature of the edge (e.g., rising or falling edge, first edge, etc.) can be indicated. It is programmable as follows:

[0099] The enable signal is provided as an input to current source control 154. When enabled, The current source control 154 controls the current used to charge the external capacitor 158 (constant current A discharge input to the current source control is used to apply a voltage to the external capacitor 158. It can be discharged (effectively resetting the charge stored in the capacitor to its base value) do).

[0100] An analog-to-digital converter 156 is used to determine the voltage across an external capacitor 158. This voltage is used to provide the data output 157. In this way, the system 15 0 specifies a voltage ramp that is initiated at the identified edge and terminates when the second edge is identified. provide.

[0101] There are many other use cases for the systems described herein. For example, FIG. 20 shows an exemplary 3 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm generally designated by reference numeral 370, according to an embodiment. Algorithm 370 begins with operation 371 in which an impulse is generated and applied to resonant circuit 14. In operation 372, the attenuation of the impulse response induced in response to the applied impulse is The decay rate is determined. The decay rate determines information about the circuit to which the impulse is applied, for example. For example, the damping rate in the form of a Q-factor measurement can be used to estimate the operating temperature. Operation 372 is an example of operation 214 in FIG. 10 is an example of an output based on an impulse response.

[0102] FIG. 21 illustrates a block diagram of a circuit switching section, generally designated by the reference numeral 380, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The switching element 380 is in a first state generally designated by reference numeral 382 and a second state generally designated by reference numeral 383. 3 shows the switch position of circuit 40 in a second state designated by reference numeral 383.

[0103] In the first state 382, ​​the switches 45a and 45c of the circuit 40 are turned off (i.e., open). ) and in the second state 383, switches 45b and 45d are connected (i.e., closed). Thus, in the first state 382, ​​both sides of the resonant circuit 49 are connected to ground. In the second state 383, a voltage pulse is applied to the resonant circuit.

[0104] FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a circuit switching section, generally designated by the reference numeral 390, according to an exemplary embodiment. The switching element 390 has a first state generally designated by the reference numeral 392 and a second state generally designated by the reference numeral 393. The switch position of circuit 40 is shown in a second state designated by reference numeral 393.

[0105] In the first state 392, switch 45b is connected (i.e., closed) and switch 45 a, 45c, and 45d are disconnected (i.e., open). One side is grounded. In the second state 393, a voltage pulse (i.e., impulse) is applied to the resonant circuit. The voltage is applied to the path.

[0106] In the second state 382 of the switching unit 380, the current flows through the first switch 45a, the resonant circuit 49 , and switch 45d. When this current flows, the power supply (battery On the other hand, when the second state 39 of the switching unit 390 is In 3, no current flows through switch 45d, reducing heat generation and power supply discharge. Furthermore, noise generation can be reduced when each impulse is generated.

[0107] FIG. 23 illustrates an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment, generally designated 400. The algorithm 400 is a flowchart illustrating the use of the system described herein. Here is an example.

[0108] The algorithm 400 begins with a measurement operation 401. The measurement operation 401 may, for example, measure the temperature Next, in operation 402, a heating operation is performed. The output of the heating operation 402 may depend on the output of the temperature setting operation 401. System 400 returns to operation 401 where the measurement operation is repeated.

[0109] Operation 401 involves applying an impulse by the impulse generating circuit 62 and measuring (e.g. , temperature measurements) are determined based on the output of the impulse response processor 64 As mentioned above, the temperature measurements are used to measure, for example, the damping rate, impulse response time, It may be based on impulse response duration or the like.

[0110] Operation 402 involves controlling circuit 40 to heat susceptor 16 of system 10. The induction heating device 12 is driven at or near the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit. The resonant frequency may be determined based on the output of operation 401. It may be specified.

[0111] In one implementation of the algorithm 400, the measurement operation is performed during a first period of time and the heating operation is performed during a second period of time. 402 is executed for a second period, and then the process is repeated. The first period is 10 ms and the second period is 250 ms, although other time intervals are possible. If so, the measurement operation is carried out between successive heating operations, provided that the measurement operation is carried out during the second period. The heating operation 402 is performed by supplying power to the induction coil for the entire second period. For example, power may only be supplied for a small portion of the second period. be.

[0112] In an alternative embodiment, the algorithm 400 may select a duration that depends on the level of heating required. (If more heating is required, the heating duration is increased.) (If less heat is needed, the heating duration is reduced). In this system, the measurement operation 401 is simply performed when no heating is occurring, resulting in a measurement It is not necessary to interrupt heating operation 402 to perform operation 401. This alternating heating section , which is sometimes called a pulse width modulation approach to heating control. For example, the pulse width modulation method It is provided at a frequency of the order of 100 Hz, and each cycle is divided into a heating section (of variable length) and a measurement section. It will be divided.

[0113] FIG. 24 is a flow chart generally designated by the reference numeral 410 illustrating an algorithm according to an exemplary embodiment. The algorithm 410 can be implemented using the system 300 described above. This can be done.

[0114] The algorithm 410 begins at operation 411, where the switch circuit 13 (e.g., circuit 40) An impulse is applied to the resonant circuit 14. In operation 413, an impulse response (e.g., 2. The pulse response processor 64 detects the presence of an item (item 2) in the heated system. 1, etc. As discussed above, the presence of the item 21 is determined by the detection Influence the impulse response in any way possible.

[0115] If an article is detected at operation 413, the algorithm 410 moves to operation 415. Otherwise, the algorithm ends at operation 419.

[0116] In operation 415, a measurement and heating operation is performed. For example, operation 415 may be performed as described above. Of course, alternative measurement and heating methods may be used. The arrangement can be provided.

[0117] Once several heating measurements and heating cycles have been performed, the algorithm 400 proceeds to operation 41. 7, where (e.g., when the heating period expires or in response to user input) It is determined whether the heating should be stopped. If so, the algorithm ends at operation 419. If not, the algorithm 400 returns to operation 411 .

[0118] Of course, the above techniques for identifying one or more characteristics of the inductive or susceptor portion may be , can be applied to individual inductor elements. For systems containing multiple inductor elements, e.g. For a system 20 including three inductor elements 23a, 23b, and 23c, the inductor For each of the capacitor elements, one or more parameters, such as temperature, are measured using the above method. In some implementations, the system can be configured to identify the In other implementations, it may be useful to operate using separate measurements for When it is useful to operate with only a single measurement of multiple inductors (e.g. In such a situation, the system: configured to identify an average measurement value corresponding to the measurements obtained from each inductor element. In other examples, only one of the inductor elements is used to identify one or more characteristics. It is possible.

[0119] The various embodiments described herein are merely intended to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are merely representative examples and are not intended to be exhaustive or exclusive. Of course, the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or Other aspects of the present disclosure are limited only as defined in the claims. The scope of equivalents should not be considered limiting and should not be considered to deviate from the scope and / or spirit of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The embodiments may comprise any suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, or other components. The present disclosure may be, consist of, or essentially consist of the above. includes other inventions that have not been claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. The susceptor device is inductively heated to heat the aerosol-generating material, thereby operating in a heating mode. a resonant circuit including an inductor element that generates an aerosol; a current sensor for measuring a current flowing through the inductor element; The aerosol generating device, the apparatus, and the susceptor apparatus are and a processor for identifying one or more characteristics of one or more of the aerosol generating devices. Device for chairs.

2. The one or more characteristics identified by the processor include the presence or absence of the susceptor device.

2. The device according to claim 1.

3. 10. The susceptor device of claim 1, wherein the susceptor device is provided as part of a removable article. Or the device according to 2.

4. The one or more characteristics identified by the processor may be a property of the removable article.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising:

5. The characteristics of the removable item identified by the processor include:

5. The device of claim 4, including the presence or absence of:

6. The one or more characteristics identified by the processor may include one or more fault conditions.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that

7. The one or more characteristics identified by the processor may include a susceptor device having a predefined current.

7. Any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the determination of whether the current of the 10. The device according to claim 1.

8. Identifying the one or more characteristics includes determining whether the current exceeds a first threshold temperature and / or Identifying whether the temperature corresponds to a susceptor device having a temperature below a second threshold temperature.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising:

9. An alternating current is generated from a DC voltage supply and passed through an inductor element to perform the heating operation. a first switching unit capable of inducing induction heating of the susceptor unit in the operating mode; 9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising:

10. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the first switching section comprises an H-bridge.

11. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the resonant circuit is an LC resonant circuit. Device.

12. An impulse is applied to the resonant circuit, and the applied impulse is applied to the capacitor of the resonant circuit. Impulse generating circuit for inducing an impulse response having a resonant frequency between inductor elements and, an output circuit for providing an output signal dependent on one or more characteristics of the impulse response; 12. The device according to claim 1, further comprising:

13. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the output signal is indicative of a resonant frequency of the impulse response. 。

14. The output signal is used to provide a temperature measurement of the inductor element.

14. The device according to claim 12 or 13.

15. A non-combustion aerosol generating device comprising the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The aerosol-generating device is adapted to house a removable article containing an aerosol-generating material.

16. The non-combustion aerosol generating device according to claim 15, wherein the non-combustion aerosol generating device is configured as follows: 。

17. The aerosol-generating material includes an aerosol-generating base material and an aerosol-forming material. The non-combustion aerosol generating device according to claim 16.

18. 16 or 17, wherein the removable article comprises the susceptor device.

18. A non-combustion aerosol generating device according to 17.

19. The susceptor device is inductively heated to heat the aerosol-generating material, thereby operating in a heating mode. Controlling the resonant circuit of an aerosol generating device including an inductor element that generates an aerosol To do, measuring a current flowing through an inductor element; The aerosol generating device and / or the susceptor device are configured to generate a current based on the measured current. and identifying one or more features.

20. The one or more characteristics determined by the processor include: the presence or absence of the susceptor device; characteristics of said removable article; the presence or absence of said removable article; one or more fault conditions; whether the current matches that of the given susceptor device; The current is applied to a sample having a temperature above a first threshold temperature and / or below a second threshold temperature. Whether it matches the septa or Whether the current matches the current of a genuine susceptor.

20. The method of claim 19,

21. An impulse is applied to the resonant circuit, and the applied impulse is applied to the capacitor of the resonant circuit. inducing an impulse response between the inductor elements having a resonant frequency; generating an output signal that depends on one or more characteristics of the impulse response.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20,

22. 1. A kit of parts including an article for use in a non-combustion based aerosol generating system, comprising: The combustion-based aerosol generating system is a device according to any one of claims 1 to 14 or A kit comprising the aerosol generating device of any one of claims 15 to 18.

23. The article is a removable article containing an aerosol-generating material. Item 23. The kit according to Item 22.

24. at least The susceptor device is inductively heated to heat the aerosol-generating material, thereby operating in a heating mode. Control of a resonant circuit of an aerosol generating device including an inductor element that generates an aerosol 、 Measurement of the current flowing through the inductor element, and The aerosol generating device and / or the susceptor device are configured to generate a current based on the measured current. Identifying one or more features A computer program containing instructions that cause a device to execute the following:

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