Aerosol generator and suction detection method
The aerosol generating device uses infrared radiation and temperature measurement to enhance suction detection sensitivity, addressing the limitations of airflow path complexity and sensitivity in existing methods.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SMOORE INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS LIMITED
- Filing Date
- 2024-05-07
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-05
AI Technical Summary
Existing aerosol generating devices face challenges in accurately detecting suction operations due to complex airflow path structures in air flow sensors and insufficient sensitivity in temperature-based detection methods using heating elements.
An aerosol generating device equipped with a heating structure, temperature measurement unit, and control unit, where the heating element generates infrared radiation, and a temperature measurement unit detects temperature changes to determine suction actions, eliminating the need for complex airflow paths and improving sensitivity.
The device accurately detects suction operations with enhanced sensitivity by monitoring temperature changes of the heating structure, reducing the complexity of airflow path structures and minimizing aerosol loss due to user misuse.
Smart Images
Figure 2026518342000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of heat non-combustion vaporization, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating device and a suction detection method.
Background Art
[0002] In the detection of the suction operation by a heat non-combustion aerosol generating device, in addition to the detection method using an air flow sensor, currently, a detection method based on the temperature difference of a heating element is also adopted.
[0003] In the detection of the suction operation by an air flow sensor, the structure of the air flow path is complex, and in the detection of the suction operation by a heating element, since the heating element itself generates heat, the temperature drop effect during suction is unclear, and the detection sensitivity of the suction operation is insufficient.
Summary of the Invention
[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide an improved aerosol generating device and a suction detection method for the aerosol generating device.
[0005] In a technical aspect for the present invention to solve its technical problems, an aerosol generating device is provided. The aerosol generating device includes a heating structure, a temperature measurement unit, and a control unit. The heating structure includes a heating element and a housing. The heating element is installed at least partially spaced apart from the housing. The heating element is heated by energization to generate infrared rays, and the infrared rays pass through the housing to heat an aerosol forming base material. The temperature measurement unit is installed on the inner wall or outer wall of the housing or is installed at a distance from the heating structure and is used to detect the temperature of the heating structure. The control unit monitors the temperature of the heating structure and detects a user's suction operation based on the temperature change of the heating structure.
[0006] In some embodiments, the temperature measurement unit is installed on the inner wall or outer wall of the housing.
[0007] In some embodiments, the temperature measuring unit is installed at a distance from the heating element, or it is installed in close contact with the heating element.
[0008] In some embodiments, the temperature measuring unit is installed at a distance from the heating element or installed in close contact with the heating element, the housing has an opening, and the temperature measuring unit is installed near the opening.
[0009] In some embodiments, the heating element is located within the housing, and at least a portion of the housing is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0010] In some embodiments, the heating elements are installed at intervals around the outer circumference of the housing, the inside of the housing is hollow, and a second containment chamber for accommodating the aerosol-forming substrate is formed.
[0011] In some embodiments, the housing includes a first tubular body and a second tubular body covering the outer circumference of the first tubular body. A gap is provided between the first pipe and the second pipe, and the gap forms a first housing chamber for housing the heating element. The heating element is installed on the outer circumference of the first tube and spaced apart from the outer wall of the first tube, and a second containment chamber for heating the aerosol-forming substrate is formed inside the first tube.
[0012] In some embodiments, the control unit includes a temperature measurement module. The temperature measurement module is connected to the temperature measurement unit, and the temperature of the heating structure is obtained by monitoring the temperature of the temperature measurement unit in real time.
[0013] In some embodiments, the temperature measuring unit includes a first temperature sensor or a second temperature sensor. The first temperature sensor includes a thermocouple, The second temperature sensor includes a resistance temperature measuring film or a thermistor.
[0014] In some embodiments, the control unit includes a heating module and a controller. The heating module is connected to the heating element, and the power supplied to the heating element is adjusted based on the control of the controller. The controller controls the temperature of the heating element by controlling the output power of the heating module, monitors the temperature of the heating structure, and detects the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure.
[0015] In some embodiments, the control unit detects the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure within a predetermined time range.
[0016] In some embodiments, the control unit detects the user's suction action based on whether the temperature change of the heating structure within a predetermined time range exceeds a threshold.
[0017] In some embodiments, the control unit detects the user's suction action based on whether the temperature drop value of the heating structure within a predetermined time range exceeds a temperature drop threshold. Alternatively, the user's suction action is detected based on whether the temperature drop gradient of the heating structure over a predetermined time range exceeds a predetermined gradient.
[0018] In some embodiments, the temperature measuring unit includes a first temperature detection element and a second temperature detection element. The first temperature sensing element is installed on the heating structure, or installed at a distance from the heating structure, and the first temperature sensing element is installed near the opening of the housing, and is used to detect the temperature of the heating structure and obtain a first real-time temperature. The second temperature sensing element is installed on the heating structure, or installed at a distance from the heating structure, and the second temperature sensing element is installed away from the opening, and is used to detect the temperature of the heating structure and obtain a second real-time temperature. The control unit determines whether the user is in an exhaling or inhaling state based on the first real-time temperature and the second real-time temperature.
[0019] In some embodiments, the control unit controls the instruction module to output a mode misuse warning signal when it determines that the user is in a breathing state. Alternatively, if the device determines that the user is exhaling, the heating power is reduced.
[0020] The present invention further provides a method for detecting suction in an aerosol generator, wherein the aerosol generator includes a heating structure, a temperature measuring unit, and a control unit, the heating structure includes a heating element and a housing, the heating element is installed at least partially spaced apart from the pipe wall of the housing, the heating element is heated by current to generate infrared radiation, the infrared radiation passes through the housing and heats the aerosol forming substrate, The aforementioned suction detection method is The steps include detecting the temperature of the heating structure using a temperature measuring unit installed on the heating structure or installed at a distance from the heating structure, The control unit includes the steps of monitoring the temperature of the heating structure and detecting the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure.
[0021] In some embodiments, the temperature measuring unit includes a first temperature sensing element and a second temperature sensing element, wherein the first temperature sensing element is installed on the heating structure or installed at a distance from the heating structure, the first temperature sensing element is installed near the opening of the housing, the second temperature sensing element is installed on the heating structure or installed at a distance from the heating structure, and the second temperature sensing element is installed away from the opening. The inhalation detection method further includes: detecting the temperature of the heat-generating structure by the first temperature detection element and obtaining a first real-time temperature; detecting the temperature of the heat-generating structure by the second temperature detection element and obtaining a second real-time temperature; and the control unit determining whether the user is in an exhalation state or an inhalation state based on the first real-time temperature and the second real-time temperature.
[0022] In some embodiments, when the control unit determines that the user is in an exhalation state, the control unit controls an instruction module to output a mode misuse warning signal, or reduces the heating power when the control unit determines that the user is in an exhalation state.
Advantages of the Invention
[0023] By implementing the aerosol generator and the inhalation detection method of the present invention, the following beneficial effects can be obtained. In the aerosol generator, the temperature of the heat-generating structure is detected by a separately installed temperature measurement unit. When the user performs an inhalation operation, the airflow passes through the temperature measurement unit, so the temperature of the temperature measurement unit drops rapidly. Thereby, the control unit can determine the presence or absence of the inhalation operation based on the temperature change of the temperature measurement unit. Also, when detecting inhalation, since the presence or absence of the inhalation operation is determined based on the temperature change of the temperature measurement unit, the problem of reduced detection sensitivity caused by a minute change in the resistance value of the heat-generating structure itself can be solved. Furthermore, in the detection of the temperature change by the temperature measurement unit, the installation of a complex airflow path structure is not required.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0024] Hereinafter, the present invention will be further described with reference to the drawings and embodiments. [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the aerosol generator in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic diagram showing the heat-generating structure of the aerosol generator shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the heat-generating structure. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the heat generation structure. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the temperature measurement principle of the aerosol generator of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a block diagram showing the temperature measurement principle using thermocouples according to the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 5 is a circuit diagram of the embodiment shown. [Figure 8] This is a block diagram illustrating the temperature measurement principle using the resistance temperature measuring film or NTC of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram of the embodiment shown. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of the temperature change curve during suction. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram showing the heat generation structure of an aerosol generator in a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing the heat-generating structure from a different perspective. [Figure 13] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the heating structure. [Figure 14] Figure 11 is an exploded view of the heat generation structure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0025] The technical modes of embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the drawings of embodiments of the present invention. It is clear that the embodiments described are only some, and not all, embodiments of the present invention. Any other embodiments that can be obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort based on embodiments of the present invention are all within the scope of the protection of the present invention.
[0026] Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the aerosol generator 100 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the aerosol generator 100 heats the aerosol-forming substrate by a non-combustible heating method. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate is cylindrical and is removablely installed in the aerosol generator 100. Specifically, the aerosol-forming substrate may be a thread-like material, a plate-like material, or a solid material formed from the leaves and / or stems of a plant (e.g., tobacco), and aromatic components may be added to the solid material.
[0027] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the aerosol generator 100 includes an upper cover assembly 10, a heating structure 11, a temperature measuring unit 20, and a control unit 30. The heating structure 11 is partially insertable into the aerosol-forming substrate. Specifically, at least a portion of the heating structure 11 is insertable into the media segment of the aerosol-forming substrate, and when energized, it generates infrared radiation to heat the media segment of the aerosol-forming substrate and generate an aerosol.
[0028] As shown in Figures 2 to 4, in this embodiment, the heating structure 11 employs a central heating structure. The heating structure 11 includes a heating element 112, a housing 111, and a base 113. The heating element 112 is located inside the housing 111 and is installed at least partially spaced apart from the housing 111. At least a portion of the housing 111 is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate. The heating element 112 is heated by an electric current to generate infrared radiation. For example, a gap 1114 for filling with air is provided between the housing 111 and the heating element 112. Of course, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the gap 1114 can also be used to fill with a reducing gas or an inert gas. The housing 111 accommodates at least a portion of the heating element 112. The infrared radiation generated from the heating element 112 passes through the housing 111 and heats the aerosol-forming substrate. Specifically, since the infrared radiation emitted from the heating element 112 can pass through the housing 111, at least a portion of the infrared radiation emitted from the heating element 112 is absorbed by the aerosol, and the aerosol-forming substrate is heated. The base 113 is installed in the opening 1110 of the housing 111.
[0029] In this embodiment, the housing 111 is made of a glass material. For example, the housing 111 is made of quartz glass. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the housing 111 is not limited to quartz glass, but is made of an infrared-transmitting window material such as infrared-transmitting glass, transparent ceramic, or diamond.
[0030] In this embodiment, the housing 111 is a hollow tubular structure, that is, a tubular body made of transparent quartz glass. The housing 111 has an elongated structure and has two ends in the axial direction. An elongated structure means that the dimension of the housing 111 in one direction (e.g., the longitudinal direction) is larger than the dimension in the other direction (e.g., the thickness direction). Specifically, the housing 111 includes a tubular body 1111 with a circular cross-section, and a pointed structure 1112 installed at one end of the tubular body 1111. Of course, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the cross-section of the tubular body 1111 is not limited to a circular shape. The tubular body 1111 is a hollow structure with an opening 1110 at one end. The pointed structure 1112 is installed at the end of the tubular body 1111 away from the opening 1110. By installing the apex structure 1112, at least a portion of the heating structure 11 becomes detachable from the aerosol-forming substrate. In this embodiment, the first housing chamber 1113, which is a columnar space, is formed inside the housing 111. In this embodiment, the tubular body 1111 is cylindrical, and the apex structure 1112 is conical. In other embodiments, the housing 111 may be, for example, triangular prism, rectangular, or other shapes. In other embodiments, the heating element 112 is installed at intervals around the outer circumference of the housing 111, and a second housing chamber for housing the aerosol-forming substrate is formed inside the housing 111.
[0031] As shown in Figure 4, in this embodiment, the heating element 112 is elongated, installed as a single unit, and has a first free end 112d and a second free end 112e. In this embodiment, the heating element 112 is a linear body with a circular cross-section (a solid wire with a circular cross-section). The heating element 112 is formed as a columnar heating section 1120 by bending at least a portion of it, specifically by bending it into a helical columnar heating section 1120. In other embodiments, it should be understood that the heating element 112 is not limited to a linear shape, but may be elongated in the form of a flap or mesh. The heating section 1120 is not limited to a columnar shape, but may be flap, mesh, or linear. In some embodiments, the heating element 112 is wound around a heating section 1120 of a single helix, double helix, M-shape, N-shape, or other shape. Of course, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the heating element 112 is not limited to one, but may be two or more. In addition, in other embodiments, the heating element 112 may be a metal piece or a metal needle.
[0032] In this embodiment, the heating element 1120 includes a first heating element 112a and a second heating element 112b, whose ends are connected. In this embodiment, the first heating element 112a and the second heating element 112b are integrally molded structures formed by bending a single heating element 112. In other embodiments, the first heating element 112a and the second heating element 112b may be separate structures formed by connecting two heating elements 112 by welding, riveting, or other methods. In other embodiments, the second heating element 112b may be replaced with a non-heat-generating conductive rod.
[0033] In this embodiment, a conductive portion 1121 is installed at one end of the heating portion 1120. The conductive portion 1121 is connected to the heating portion 1120, extends from one end of the housing 111, passes through the base 113, and is electrically connected to the power supply component of the control unit 30. In this embodiment, two conductive portions 1121 are installed at intervals from each other. Both conductive portions 1121 are connected to the heating portion 1120, pass through the housing 111, and are installed protruding from the same end. In this embodiment, the conductive portions 1121 are fixed to the heating portion 1120 by welding. Of course, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the heating portion 1120 and the conductive portion 1121 may be integrally molded. The first free end 112d and the second free end 112e of the heating element 112 form two conductive parts 1121, namely, the first free end 112d of the first heating element 112a forms one conductive part 1121, and the second free end 112e of the second heating element 112b forms the other conductive part 1121. In other embodiments, the conductive part 1121 is a lead wire having a higher resistance than the heating element, for example, a silver or aluminum lead wire, and is weldable to the heating element 1120. Of course, in other embodiments, the conductive part 1121 is not limited to a lead wire and may be other conductive structures.
[0034] In this embodiment, unlike conventional electronic cigarette heating elements, the maximum operating temperature range of the heating element 112 is 500°C to 1300°C. That is, the maximum operating temperature of the heating element 112 may be any temperature within the range of 500°C to 1300°C throughout the entire operating period, and can be specifically determined according to the requirements for temperature control. The maximum operating temperature of conventional heating elements is generally 400°C or less. Specifically, in this embodiment, the operating temperature of the heating element 112 includes a first operating temperature range and a second operating temperature range. Of these, the first operating temperature range is the operating temperature range during preheating, with a maximum temperature set to 700°C to 1300°C, and the aerosol-forming substrate is rapidly preheated by infrared radiation at this temperature, ensuring the amount of aerosol vapor and flavor for the first approximately three inhalations when the user inhales. Specifically, when energized, the heating element 112 can rapidly heat up from room temperature to approximately 1000°C in 1 to 3 seconds. The second operating temperature range is the operating temperature range when aerosols normally generated from the aerosol-forming substrate after preheating are drawn into the user's mouth, with a maximum temperature set to 500°C to 800°C. Of course, in other embodiments, the operating temperature range of the heating element 112 is not limited to two sections, and may further include, for example, a cooling stage following the second operating temperature. Due to the presence of the gap 1114, the surface temperature of the housing 111 is controlled to 350°C or less, and the vaporization temperature of the entire aerosol-forming substrate is controlled to 300 to 350°C, enabling reliable vaporization of the aerosol-forming substrate in the 2 to 5 μm infrared wavelength band.
[0035] In some embodiments, the heating element 1120 includes a heating substrate and an infrared radiation layer covering the outside of the heating substrate. The heating substrate includes a metal substrate having high temperature oxidation resistance, such as a metal wire. The heating substrate employs a metal material that has excellent high temperature oxidation resistance and stability, and is resistant to deformation, such as a nickel-chromium alloy substrate (e.g., nickel-chromium alloy wire) or a ferroal alloy substrate (e.g., ferroal alloy wire). In some embodiments, the diameter of the metal wire is 0.15 mm to 0.8 mm. The metal wire can be bent or wound into various shapes such as spiral, mesh, M-shaped, or N-shaped. After bending or winding, the entire heating element exhibits columnar, spiral segmented, mesh-like, and other three-dimensional curved or planar shapes.
[0036] In some embodiments, the heating element 112 further includes an oxidation-resistant layer. This oxidation-resistant layer is formed between the heating substrate and the infrared radiation layer. Specifically, the oxidation-resistant layer is an oxide film formed on the surface of the heating substrate by high-temperature heat treatment. Of course, in other embodiments, the oxidation-resistant layer is not limited to an oxide film formed on itself, but may be an oxidation-resistant coating applied to the outer surface of the heating substrate. The thickness of the oxidation-resistant layer is selected from the range of 1 μm to 150 μm.
[0037] In some embodiments, the infrared radiation layer is an infrared layer formed on the side of the oxidation-resistant layer away from the heat-generating substrate by high-temperature heat treatment of the infrared layer-forming substrate. Specifically, the infrared layer-forming substrate is silicon carbide, spinel, or a composite substrate thereof. Of course, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the infrared radiation layer is not limited to an infrared layer. In other embodiments, the infrared radiation layer is a composite infrared layer. Specifically, the infrared layer is formed on the side of the oxidation-resistant layer away from the heat-generating substrate by means of dip coating, spray coating, brush coating, etc. The thickness of the infrared radiation layer is in the range of 10 μm to 300 μm.
[0038] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in this embodiment, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed on the heat-generating structure 11 or installed at a distance from the heat-generating structure 11. In this case, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed at a distance from the heat-generating element 112 or installed in close contact with the heat-generating element 112. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed near the opening 1110 of the housing 111. Here, "nearby" refers to the case where the distance from the longitudinal center point of the housing 111 to the end on the opening 1110 side is shorter, and "away from" refers to the case where the distance to the end on the opening 1110 side is longer. Specifically, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed on the inner wall or outer wall of the housing 111. By installing the temperature measuring unit 20, the temperature of the heat-generating structure 11 can be detected. The operating temperature of the infrared heating element 112 is in the range of 500°C to 1300°C, and since there is a gap 1114 between the heating element 112 and the housing 111, the surface temperature of the housing 111 can be controlled to 350°C or less. Therefore, by installing the temperature measurement unit 20 on the inner or outer wall of the housing 111, the sensitivity of temperature detection can be increased.
[0039] In this embodiment, the temperature measuring unit 20 includes a first temperature sensor or a second temperature sensor.
[0040] Of these, the first temperature sensor includes a thermocouple, and the second temperature sensor includes a resistance temperature measuring film or a thermistor formed on the housing by methods such as screen printing or PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition). Specifically, in this embodiment, the temperature measuring unit 20 can employ a thermocouple, a temperature measuring film, an NTC (negative temperature coefficient thermistor), a PTC (positive temperature coefficient thermistor), etc. Of course, in other embodiments, the temperature measuring unit 20 is not limited to the above-described temperature sensors, and can also detect temperature using other sensors or temperature detection elements, as long as the temperature of the heating element can be accurately measured.
[0041] As shown in Figure 5, in this embodiment, the control unit 30 is connected to the temperature measuring unit 20 and is used to monitor the temperature of the heat-generating structure 11 by receiving a signal output from the temperature measuring unit 20, and to detect the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heat-generating structure 11.
[0042] In this embodiment, the control unit 30 detects the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure 11 within a predetermined time range. Specifically, the control unit 30 detects the user's suction action based on whether the temperature change of the heating structure 11 within a predetermined time range exceeds a threshold. In this embodiment, the control unit 30 detects the user's suction action based on whether the temperature drop value of the heating structure 11 within a predetermined time range exceeds a drop threshold. Alternatively, the control unit 30 detects the user's suction action based on whether the temperature drop gradient of the heating structure 11 within a predetermined time range exceeds a predetermined gradient.
[0043] In this embodiment, Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the temperature change curve during suction, with the horizontal axis representing time and the vertical axis representing temperature, and the unit of temperature being °C. Immediately before the user performs suction, the temperature of the temperature measuring unit 20 is T0. When the user performs suction, the airflow due to the suction passes through the heat-generating structure (i.e., the airflow passes through the temperature measuring unit 20), causing the temperature of the temperature measuring unit 20 to drop sharply. At the moment immediately before the suction operation is completed, the temperature of the temperature measuring unit 20 drops to T1. After the suction operation is completed, the temperature of the temperature measuring unit 20 recovers to the original temperature T0. Therefore, the controller 32 calculates the temperature difference between T0 and T1, △T = T0 - T1, and determines whether or not to perform suction based on △T. For example, if △T within a predetermined time range is a drop threshold (T 閾値 If the value exceeds (set to ), it is determined that suction is occurring, or if △T / t within a predetermined time range exceeds a predetermined slope (set to k0), it is determined that suction is occurring. In this case, t is a predetermined time.
[0044] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the controller 32 detects that the temperature of the temperature measurement unit 20 has risen from T1, it determines that the current suction operation is complete and performs the next suction detection.
[0045] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, in this embodiment, the control unit 30 includes a temperature measurement module 31. The temperature measurement module 31 is connected to the temperature measurement unit 20 and is used to monitor the temperature of the temperature measurement unit 20 in real time and to obtain the temperature of the heat-generating structure 11. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, if the temperature measurement unit 20 employs a thermocouple, the temperature measurement module 31 employs a thermocouple detection IC. Specifically, the thermocouple detection IC is connected to the temperature measurement unit 20 and is used to detect the signal generated by the temperature measurement unit 20 and output a corresponding detection signal.
[0046] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the control unit 30 includes a heating module 33 and a controller 32. The heating module 33 is connected to the heating element 112 and adjusts the power supplied to the heating element 112 based on the control of the controller 32. The controller 32 controls the temperature of the heating element 112 by controlling the output power of the heating module 33, and also monitors the temperature of the heating structure 11 and detects the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure 11. Specifically, when the aerosol generator 100 is in operation, the controller 32 controls the heating module 33 to heat the heating element 112 and measures the temperature of the temperature measuring unit 20 using a thermocouple detection IC. After heating starts, the temperature of the temperature measuring unit 20 rises rapidly and gradually reaches equilibrium, changing in accordance with the rise / fall of the temperature curve over the corresponding time. The temperature measuring unit 20 is installed near the opening 1110 of the housing 111 of the heating element 112 and positioned where airflow flows over the heating element 112. Therefore, when the user is not using suction, the temperature of the temperature measuring unit 20 remains stable. When the user uses suction, the airflow passes through the temperature measuring unit 20, causing its temperature to drop rapidly. Consequently, the controller 32 can detect the temperature of the temperature measuring unit 20 in real time and determine whether or not suction is being performed based on the change in temperature. In this embodiment, since the temperature of the heating element 112 is detected by the temperature measuring unit 20 located outside the heating element 112, it is not affected by changes in the resistance value of the heating element 112 itself, resulting in high detection sensitivity, no need to install a complex airflow path, and not only simplifying the structure of the aerosol generator 100 but also reducing product costs.
[0047] As shown in Figure 7, in this embodiment, when the temperature measurement unit 20 is a thermocouple, the temperature measurement module 31 includes a thermocouple detection IC (U6). The thermocouple detection IC has its fourth pin connected to VDD and grounded via capacitor C25, its second pin connected to the second end of the thermocouple, its third pin connected to the first end of the thermocouple, its fifth pin connected to the 26th pin of the controller 32 (not shown), and its seventh pin connected to the 27th pin of the controller 32 (not shown). In this embodiment, the controller 32 detects the temperature of the heating element 112 in real time by detecting the temperature of the thermocouple in real time using the thermocouple detection IC, and determines whether or not the user is performing an attraction operation based on the temperature change of the thermocouple within a predetermined time range.
[0048] As shown in Figure 7, in this embodiment, the power module includes MOSFET Q5 and MOSFET Q3. MOSFET Q5 has its source grounded and its gate connected to the 12th pin (not shown) of the controller 32. MOSFET Q5's gate receives a PWM signal and its drain is connected to the gate of MOSFET Q3. MOSFET Q3's source is connected to a battery (BAT), its drain is connected to the anode of the heating element 112, and the cathode of the heating element 112 is grounded. In this embodiment, MOSFET Q5 drives the conduction / conduction of MOSFET Q3 based on the PWM signal output by the controller 32, controlling the battery to supply power to the heating element 112.
[0049] As shown in Figure 8, in this embodiment, when the temperature measurement unit 20 employs a resistance temperature measuring film or a thermistor, the temperature measurement module 31 is composed of a temperature measurement circuit, of which the temperature measurement circuit is composed of resistors. Specifically, as shown in Figure 9, the positive terminal of the resistance temperature measuring film is connected to the second terminal of resistor R26, and the second terminal of resistor R26 is also connected to the fourth pin (not shown) of the controller 32. The first terminal of resistor R26 is connected to the sixth pin (not shown) of the controller 32 and also to the emitter of transistor Q7. The collector of transistor Q7 is connected to the positive terminal (BAT+) of the battery, and the base is connected to the third pin (not shown) of the controller 32. The controller 32 controls the conduction or interruption of transistor Q7 by outputting a drive signal to transistor Q7, thereby adjusting and controlling the power supplied to the resistance temperature measuring film / thermistor by transistor Q7.
[0050] In this embodiment, the controller 32 obtains the voltage across resistor R26, subtracts the voltage across resistor R26 from the power supply voltage (BAT) to determine the voltage across the resistance temperature measuring film / thermistor, divides the voltage across resistor R26 by the resistance value of resistor R26 to determine the current flowing through resistor R26 (this current flowing through resistor R26 is equal to the current flowing through the resistance temperature measuring film / thermistor), obtains the resistance value of the resistance temperature measuring film / thermistor as a result, and realizes temperature detection of the resistance temperature measuring film / thermistor.
[0051] Figures 1 to 4 are schematic diagrams showing a single temperature measuring unit 20 installed. It should be understood that in other embodiments, multiple temperature measuring units 20 may be installed. Specifically, the temperature measuring unit 20 includes a first temperature sensing element and a second temperature sensing element. The first temperature sensing element is installed on the heating structure 11 or at a distance from the heating structure 11. The first temperature sensing element is installed near the opening 1110 of the housing 111 and is used to detect the temperature of the heating structure 11 and obtain a first real-time temperature. The second temperature sensing element is installed on the heating structure 11 or at a distance from the heating structure 11. The second temperature sensing element is installed away from the opening 1110 and is used to detect the temperature of the heating structure 11 and obtain a second real-time temperature.
[0052] The control unit 30 determines whether the user is in an exhaling or inhaling state based on the first real-time temperature and the second real-time temperature.
[0053] In some embodiments, during inhalation, air flows along the housing 111 after passing through the opening 1110, and at this time, the temperature change of the first temperature sensing element is greater than the temperature change of the second temperature sensing element. During exhalation, air flows in from the side away from the opening 1110 and then flows along the housing 111, and at this time, the temperature change of the second temperature sensing element is greater than the temperature change of the first temperature sensing element. Therefore, the user's usage state can be determined by the difference in the temperature changes of the first and second temperature sensing elements. Specifically, if the temperature change of the first temperature sensing element is greater than the temperature change of the second temperature sensing element, the user is in an inhalation state, and if the temperature change of the first temperature sensing element is smaller than the temperature change of the second temperature sensing element, the user is in an exhalation state.
[0054] Of course, in other embodiments, during inhalation, air flows in from the side away from the opening 1110 and then flows along the housing 111, and at this time, the temperature change of the first temperature sensing element is smaller than the temperature change of the second temperature sensing element. During exhalation, air flows through the opening 1110 and then flows along the housing 111, and at this time, the temperature change of the first temperature sensing element is larger than the temperature change of the second temperature sensing element. Therefore, if the temperature change of the first temperature sensing element is larger than the temperature change of the second temperature sensing element, the user is in exhalation, and if the temperature change of the first temperature sensing element is smaller than the temperature change of the second temperature sensing element, the user is inhalation.
[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 30 controls the instruction module to output a mode misuse warning signal when it determines that the user is in an exhaling state. Alternatively, the control unit 30 reduces the heating power when it determines that the user is in an exhaling state. By reducing the heating power when it is determined that the user's current usage state is an exhaling state, aerosol loss can be reduced.
[0056] By installing a first temperature detection element near the opening 1110 and a second temperature detection element away from the opening 1110, the user's usage status is detected, aerosol loss due to user misuse is avoided, and the efficiency of product use is improved.
[0057] The aspiration detection method for the aerosol generator 100 includes the steps of detecting the temperature of the heating structure 11 using a temperature measuring unit 20 installed on the heating structure 11 or installed at a distance from the heating structure 11, and monitoring the temperature of the heating structure 11 with a control unit 30 and detecting the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure 11. Specifically, by installing the temperature measuring unit 20 near the opening 1110 of the housing 111, the temperature of the heating structure 11 can be detected based on the temperature change of the temperature measuring unit 20. This makes it possible to determine whether or not suction action is being performed based on the temperature change of the heating structure 11.
[0058] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the suction detection method further includes the steps of: detecting the temperature of the heating structure 11 with a first temperature detection element and obtaining a first real-time temperature; detecting the temperature of the heating structure 11 with a second temperature detection element and obtaining a second real-time temperature; and the control unit 30 determining whether the user is in an inhaling or exhaling state based on the first real-time temperature and the second real-time temperature.
[0059] Of these, the first temperature sensing element is installed in the heat-generating structure 11, or installed at a distance from the heat-generating structure 11 and near the opening 1110 of the housing 111. The second temperature sensing element is installed in the heat-generating structure 11, or installed at a distance from the heat-generating structure 11 and away from the opening 1110.
[0060] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the control unit 30 determines that the user is in a breathing state, it controls the instruction module to output a mode misuse warning signal. Alternatively, when the control unit 30 determines that the user is in a breathing state, it reduces the heating power.
[0061] Figures 11 to 14 show a second embodiment of the aerosol generator 100 of the present invention. The difference from the first embodiment is that the heating structure 11 is not limited to a form in which it is partially inserted into the aerosol forming substrate and heats the aerosol forming substrate, but in this embodiment the heating structure 11 is an ambient heating structure. The heating structure 11 can be installed to cover the outer circumference of the medium segment of the aerosol forming substrate and heats the aerosol forming substrate by ambient heating. In this embodiment the housing 111 includes a first tube 111a and a second tube 111b. The first tube 111a has a hollow structure with both ends penetrating. The first tube 111a is cylindrical and its inner diameter is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the aerosol forming substrate. A second containment chamber 1115 is formed inside the first tube 111a, and this second containment chamber 1115 is used to contain the aerosol-forming substrate and to form a heating space for the medium segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. The axial length of the first tube 111a is greater than the axial length of the second tube 111b. The second tube 111b can be fitted over the outer circumference of the first tube 111a. The second tube 111b is cylindrical, and its radial dimension is greater than the radial dimension of the first tube 111a. That is, a gap is provided between the second tube 111b and the first tube 111a to form a first containment chamber 1113, which is used to contain the heating element 112. The heating element 112 is installed on the outer circumference of the first pipe 111a and is installed at a distance from the outer wall of the first pipe 111a. In some embodiments, the heating element 112 is wrapped around the outer circumference of the first pipe 111a, and a gap 1114 is created between the entire heating element and the inner wall of the second pipe 111b and the outer wall of the first pipe 111a (i.e., the heating element 112 is installed at least partially at a distance from the housing 111), thereby creating a temperature difference between the inner wall of the first containment chamber 1113 and the heating element 112, providing thermal insulation. In some embodiments, a reflective layer is installed on the inner wall of the second pipe 111b to reflect heat from the heating element 112 to the aerosol-forming substrate 200, improving heating energy efficiency.
[0062] In other embodiments, the heating element 112 is not limited to being installed at a distance from the first pipe 111a or the second pipe 111b overall. In other embodiments, the heating element 112 may be installed at a partial distance from the first pipe 111a. The radial dimension of a portion of the heating element 1120 corresponds to the outer diameter of the first pipe 111a, providing a positional limiting effect. In some embodiments, the heating element 112 may be installed at a partial distance from the second pipe 111b, with the radial dimension of a portion of the heating element 1120 corresponding to the radial dimension of the second pipe 111b.
[0063] As shown in Figure 13, in this embodiment, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed on the heat-generating structure 11 or installed at a distance from the heat-generating structure 11. In this case, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed at a distance from the heat-generating element 112 or installed in close contact with the heat-generating element 112. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 14, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed near the opening 1110 of the housing 111. Here, "nearby" refers to the case where the distance from the longitudinal center point of the housing 111 to the end on the opening 1110 side is shorter, and "away from" refers to the case where the distance to the end on the opening 1110 side is longer. Specifically, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed on the inner wall or outer wall of the housing 111. In this embodiment, the temperature measuring unit 20 is installed on the inner wall of the housing 111. By installing the temperature measuring unit 20, the temperature of the heat-generating structure 11 can be detected. The infrared heating element 112 operates at a temperature in the range of 500°C to 1300°C, and a gap 1114 exists between the heating element 112 and the housing 111. Therefore, the surface temperature of the housing 111 can be controlled to 350°C or lower. Accordingly, by installing the temperature measurement unit 20 on the inner or outer wall of the housing 111, the temperature detection sensitivity can be increased.
[0064] Each example in this specification is disclosed step-by-step, with emphasis on the differences between it and other examples, and common parts between examples are mutually referential. The apparatus disclosed in the examples corresponds to the method disclosed in the examples, and the description is simplified so that relevant parts can refer to the description of the method.
[0065] Those skilled in the art will further recognize that the units and algorithmic steps of each example described herein can be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination thereof, and that in order to clearly illustrate the hardware-software compatibility, the configurations and steps of each example have been functionally described above. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical embodiment. Those skilled in the art may implement the described functions using different methods for each specific application, and such implementations should not be considered to deviate from the scope of the invention.
[0066] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in the embodiments herein can be carried out directly by hardware, a processor-executing software module, or a combination thereof. The software module is located in random-access memory (RAM), main memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically programmable ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM, registers, hard disks, removable disks, CD-ROMs, or any other storage medium known in the art.
[0067] The above embodiments are solely for the purpose of illustrating the technical concept and features of the present invention, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand and implement the present invention, but do not limit the scope of protection of the present invention. All changes and modifications within the scope equivalent to the claims of the present invention shall be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. Aerosol generator, The heating structure includes a heating element, a temperature measuring unit, and a control unit, wherein the heating structure includes a heating element and a housing, the heating element is installed at least partially separated from the housing, the heating element is heated by current to generate infrared radiation, the infrared radiation passes through the housing and heats the aerosol-forming substrate, The temperature measuring unit is installed on the heating structure, or installed at a distance from the heating structure and used to detect the temperature of the heating structure. An aerosol generator characterized in that the control unit monitors the temperature of the heating structure and detects the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure.
2. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature measuring unit is installed on the inner wall or outer wall of the housing.
3. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, characterized in that the temperature measuring unit is installed at a distance from the heating element or installed in close contact with the heating element.
4. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature measuring unit is installed at a distance from the heating element or installed in close contact with the heating element, the housing has an opening, and the temperature measuring unit is installed near the opening.
5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the heating element is located inside the housing and at least a portion of the housing is inserted into an aerosol forming substrate.
6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the heating elements are installed at intervals around the outer circumference of the housing, the inside of the housing is hollow, and a second containment chamber for containing an aerosol-forming substrate is formed therein.
7. The housing includes a first pipe and a second pipe covering the outer circumference of the first pipe. A gap is provided between the first pipe and the second pipe, and the gap forms a first housing chamber for housing the heating element. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the heating element is installed on the outer circumference of the first tube and is spaced apart from the outer wall of the first tube, and a second containment chamber for heating an aerosol-forming substrate is formed inside the first tube.
8. The control unit includes a temperature measurement module, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature measurement module is connected to the temperature measurement unit, and the temperature of the heating structure is obtained by monitoring the temperature of the temperature measurement unit in real time.
9. The temperature measuring unit includes a first temperature sensor or a second temperature sensor. The first temperature sensor includes a thermocouple, The aerosol generator according to claim 8, characterized in that the second temperature sensor includes a resistance temperature measuring film or a thermistor.
10. The control unit includes a heating module and a controller. The heating module is connected to the heating element, and the power supplied to the heating element is adjusted based on the control of the controller. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the controller controls the temperature of the heating element by controlling the output power of the heating module, monitors the temperature of the heating structure, and detects the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure.
11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit detects the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure within a predetermined time range.
12. The aerosol generator according to claim 11, characterized in that the control unit detects the user's suction action based on whether or not the temperature change of the heating structure within a predetermined time range exceeds a threshold.
13. The control unit detects the user's suction operation based on whether the temperature drop value of the heating structure within a predetermined time range exceeds a temperature drop threshold. Alternatively, the aerosol generator according to claim 11, characterized in that it detects the user's suction action based on whether or not the temperature drop gradient of the heating structure over a predetermined time range exceeds a predetermined gradient.
14. The temperature measurement unit includes a first temperature detection element and a second temperature detection element. The first temperature detection element is installed on the heating structure, or installed at a distance from the heating structure, and the first temperature detection element is installed near the opening of the housing, and is used to detect the temperature of the heating structure and obtain a first real-time temperature. The second temperature sensing element is installed on the heating structure, or installed at a distance from the heating structure, and the second temperature sensing element is installed away from the opening, and is used to detect the temperature of the heating structure and obtain a second real-time temperature. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit determines whether the user is in an exhaling or inhaling state based on the first real-time temperature and the second real-time temperature.
15. The control unit, when it determines that the user is in a breathing state, controls the instruction module to output a mode misuse warning signal. Alternatively, the aerosol generator according to claim 14, characterized in that it reduces heating power when it determines that the user is in an exhaling state.
16. A method for detecting suction from an aerosol generator, The aerosol generator includes a heating structure, a temperature measuring unit, and a control unit, the heating structure includes a heating element and a housing, the heating element is installed at least partially spaced apart from the pipe wall of the housing, the heating element is heated by current to generate infrared radiation, the infrared radiation passes through the housing and heats the aerosol-forming substrate, The aforementioned suction detection method is The steps include detecting the temperature of the heating structure using a temperature measuring unit installed on the heating structure or installed at a distance from the heating structure, A method for detecting suction in an aerosol generator, comprising the steps of: monitoring the temperature of the heating structure with the control unit and detecting the user's suction action based on the temperature change of the heating structure.
17. The temperature measurement unit includes a first temperature detection element and a second temperature detection element, wherein the first temperature detection element is installed on the heating structure or installed at a distance from the heating structure, the first temperature detection element is installed near the opening of the housing, the second temperature detection element is installed on the heating structure or installed at a distance from the heating structure, and the second temperature detection element is installed away from the opening. The aforementioned suction detection method is The first step is to detect the temperature of the heating structure using the first temperature detection element and obtain a first real-time temperature. The steps include detecting the temperature of the heating structure using the second temperature detection element and obtaining a second real-time temperature, The method for detecting inhalation in an aerosol generator according to claim 16, further comprising the step of the control unit determining whether the user is in an exhaling or inhaling state based on a first real-time temperature and a second real-time temperature.
18. The control unit, when it determines that the user is in a breathing state, controls the instruction module to output a mode misuse warning signal. Alternatively, the method for detecting inhalation in an aerosol generator according to claim 17, characterized in that the heating power is reduced when it is determined that the user is in an exhaling state.