Aerosol generating device

Abstract

The aerosol-generating device includes an induction heating circuit that inductively heats a susceptor assembly to heat an aerosol-generating material, thereby generating an aerosol. The device is configured such that, during operation, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device is less than 40 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz, and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz, and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz, and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device. [Background Art]

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco and generate smoke during use. Alternatives to these smoking articles are provided by creating products that release compounds without combustion. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases compounds by heating without burning the material thereof. The substrate may be a tobacco or non-tobacco product that contains or does not contain nicotine. [Summary of the Invention]

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising an induction heating circuit that inductively heats a susceptor device to heat an aerosol generating material, thereby generating an aerosol, wherein the device is configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device during operation is less than 40 dBµV / m over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBµV / m over the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz and / or less than 70 dBµV / m over the frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBµV / m over the frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

[0004] The device of the present invention may be configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by operation of the device during operation is less than 40 dBµV / m over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and less than 47 dBµV / m over the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz.

[0005] The device of the present invention may be configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the operation of the device during charging and / or discharging operations is less than 40 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

[0006] The radiation level emitted by the device of the present invention may be the level of emitted radiation measured in both a vertical and a horizontal plane.

[0007] The level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device of the present invention may be the level of electromagnetic radiation measured using a test setup for measuring the level of emitted electromagnetic radiation, and optionally the level of radiation emitted by the device may be the level determined by measuring the peak or near-peak level of the radiation emitted by the device.

[0008] The device of the present invention may include a susceptor device, and the aerosol generating material may be housed by the device such that the susceptor device heats the aerosol generating material during operation.

[0009] The device of the present invention may be a tobacco heating device configured to heat tobacco material during operation but without burning it, thereby generating an aerosol from it.

[0010] The device of the present invention may be a portable device.

[0011] The device of the present invention may include a magnetic shielding member configured to extend at least partially around an induction heating circuit or susceptor device.

[0012] The induction heating circuit may include an induction member configured to generate a fluctuating magnetic field for heating the susceptor device, and the magnetic shielding member may be configured to extend at least partially around the induction member.

[0013] The device of the present invention may include a receiving portion configured to house an aerosol generating material that is heated by a susceptor device during operation, and the inducting member may be an inductor coil extending around the receiving portion.

[0014] The receiving portion may be defined by a susceptor device.

[0015] The magnetic shielding member may surround the inductive member, and the magnetic shielding member may be at least partially bonded to itself.

[0016] The device of the present invention may include a charging device configured to control the charging of the device's battery from an external power source, and the charging device may be configured such that, when operating to manage the charging of the device, the peak level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device due to the operation of the charging device is less than 40 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

[0017] The charging device may be configured to perform a switching operation during charging, and the charging device may include a snubber circuit to limit the rate of change of voltage during the switching operation of the charging device.

[0018] The charging device includes an input section configured to connect to an external power source and receive power from it to charge a device, an output section connected to an output inductor, and a charge management controller connected between the input section and the output section, configured to receive power from the input section and control the current supplied to the output section.

[0019] The snubber circuit may be located in the output section of the charging device.

[0020] The input section of the charging device may include an input inductor for filtering high-frequency signals that reach the charge management controller.

[0021] The device of the present invention may be configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 1 GHz during operation to heat an aerosolizable material is less than approximately 35 dBμV / m.

[0022] The device of the present invention may be configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 400 MHz during the operation of heating an aerosolizable material is less than approximately 20 dBμV / m.

[0023] The device of the present invention may be configured such that, during an operation to charge the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over a frequency range of 300 MHz to 1 GHz is less than approximately 37.5 dBμV / m.

[0024] The device of the present invention may be configured such that, during an operation to charge the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 500 MHz is less than approximately 35 dBμV / m.

[0025] The device of the present invention may be configured such that the average of radiation emitted by the device during operation over the frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz is less than about 50 dBμV / m, and / or the average of radiation emitted by the device during operation over the frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz is less than about 54 dBμV / m.

[0026] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system comprising an aerosol generating device according to the first aspect, and a charging cable for charging from an external power source for charging the device, wherein the system is configured such that during charging operation of the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than 40 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz, and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz, and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz, and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

[0027] The system of the present invention may be configured such that during charging operation of the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system over the frequency range of 300 MHz to 1 GHz is less than about 37.5 dBμV / m.

[0028] The system of the present invention may be configured such that during charging operation of the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation transferred to the charging cable by operation of the device is less than about 66 dBμV over the frequency range of 150 kHz to 500 kHz, and / or less than about 56 dBμV at about 500 kHz, and / or less than about 56 dBμV over the frequency range of 500 kHz to 5 MHz, and / or less than about 60 dBμV over the frequency range of 5 MHz to 30 MHz.

[0029] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to the first aspect and an article comprising an aerosolizable material, wherein during operation of generating aerosol from the aerosolizable material, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than 40 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz, and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

[0030] The system of the present invention may be configured such that during operation of generating aerosol from an aerosolizable material, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than about 35 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 500 MHz.

[0031] The system of the present invention may be configured such that during operation of generating aerosol from an aerosolizable material, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 400 MHz is less than about 20 dBμV / m.

[0032] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, which is given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a setup for measuring an electromagnetic radiation level emitted by an example of an aerosol generating system. [Figure 2] 2 shows a plot of measurement of an electromagnetic radiation level from an example of an aerosol generating system in operation. [Figure 3] 3 shows another plot of measurement of an electromagnetic radiation level from an example of an aerosol generating system in operation. [Figure 4]This is a front view of an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 5] Figure 4 is a front view of the aerosol generating device with the outer cover removed. [Figure 6] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 7] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 8A] This is a cross-sectional view of the heating assembly inside an aerosol generating device. [Figure 8B] Figure 8A is a magnified view of a portion of the heated assembly. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of an example of a magnetic shielding member placed inside an aerosol generating device. [Figure 10] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a magnetic shielding member. [Figure 11] Figure 9 is a top view of the configuration shown. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of an example of a magnetic shielding member. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram showing a first example of a magnetic shielding member including a notch. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram showing a second example of a magnetic shielding member including a notch. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram showing a third example of a magnetic shielding member including an opening. [Figure 16] This is a schematic diagram of an example of a device for controlling the charging of an aerosol generating device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] In this specification, the term “aerosol generating material” includes materials that, when heated, release volatile components typically in the form of an aerosol. Any tobacco-containing material can be used as an aerosol generating material, and may include, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, re-tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Depending on the product, the aerosol generating material may or may not contain nicotine, or other non-tobacco products. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, or wax. It may also be, for example, a combination or blend of materials. The aerosol generating material is also known as “smoking material.”

[0035] Devices are known that heat an aerosol generating material without burning or combustion to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol generating material, typically forming an inhalable aerosol. Such devices are sometimes described as “aerosol generating devices,” “aerosol supply devices,” “non-combustion heating devices,” “tobacco heating product devices,” or “tobacco heating devices,” or similar. Similarly, there are what are called e-cigarette devices that vaporize an aerosol generating material, usually in the form of a liquid, with or without nicotine. The aerosol generating material may be supplied in the form of a rod, cartridge, or cassette, or as part thereof. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol generating material may be provided as a “permanent” component of the device. The device of the present invention may be a portable device intended to be held in the user's hand when generating an aerosol that is inhaled by the user during use.

[0036] An aerosol generating device can house an article containing an aerosol generating material for heating. In this context, “article” is a component that contains or is contained in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated during use to volatilize the aerosol generating material and optionally other components. The user inserts the article into the aerosol generating device before the aerosol generating material is heated to generate an aerosol and then inhaled by the user. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size, for example, configured to be placed within a heating chamber of a device of a size that accommodates the article.

[0037] Some examples of the present disclosure relate to aerosol generating devices including an induction heating circuit for induction heating a susceptor device. When in use, the susceptor device is arranged to heat an aerosol generating material when it is induction heated by the induction heating circuit, thereby generating an aerosol generating material.

[0038] A susceptor can be heated by allowing a fluctuating magnetic field, created by an inductor coil or, in some cases, another type of inductive element, to enter the susceptor. The heated susceptor then heats the aerosol generating material.

[0039] The inductor coil may extend around the susceptor when in use. The susceptor may form part of an aerosol generating device in one example. In one example, the susceptor defines a receptacle for housing the aerosol generating material to be heated. For example, the susceptor may be substantially tubular (i.e., hollow) and may be configured to house the aerosol generating material within the tubular receptacle defined by the susceptor. In one example, the aerosol generating material may be tubular or cylindrical in shape and may be known as a "cigarette stick," for example, the aerosolizable material may include a cigarette formed into a specific shape, which may then be coated or wrapped in one or more other materials such as paper or foil. Separately, the susceptor may not be a part of the device but may be attached to or contained within an article that is inserted into the device.

[0040] Induction heating circuits emit electromagnetic radiation when a fluctuating current flows through the circuit. For example, electromagnetic radiation is emitted when a fluctuating current flows through an inductive element and heats the susceptor device. Devices may also emit electromagnetic radiation while charging. For example, during charging, electromagnetic radiation may be generated by changing the voltage generated in the device's charging circuit.

[0041] The devices of the present invention may be configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted in dBμV / m units across several frequency ranges falls within a predetermined level. For example, an aerosol generating device may be configured such that, during operation, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz is less than 40 dBμV / m, or the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz is less than 47 dBμV / m. The devices of the present invention may also be configured such that, during operation, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device is less than 70 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz, or less than 74 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

[0042] In some cases, the average level of radiation emitted by an operating device across the frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz may be less than approximately 50 dBμV / m and / or the average level of radiation emitted by an operating device across the frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz may be less than approximately 54 dBμV / m.

[0043] The level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device may be measured by an electromagnetic radiation test. In one example, the electromagnetic radiation test measures the electromagnetic radiation from the device over a relevant frequency range when the device is in operation. The test is performed when the device is operating in a different manner, for example, while charging, or while discharging, such as during normal use for producing aerosols. The device of the present invention may be configured such that the level of radiation emitted by the device is below the aforementioned level while the device is charging and while the device is discharging. In some examples, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device of the present invention over one or more specific frequency ranges, such as the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or 235 MHz to 1 GHz, or any other frequency range described herein, may be substantially zero during operation.

[0044] In one example, in an electromagnetic radiation test, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by a device is measured using an antenna positioned at a standardized location relative to the device. The device of the present invention is operated, for example, charged or discharged, while the antenna measures the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the device over the target frequency range.

[0045] Furthermore, the devices of the present invention may be configured to have a specific level of resistance to electromagnetic radiation. In the electromagnetic radiation resistance test of the device, electromagnetic radiation may be emitted from an antenna and incident on the device. The devices of the present invention are tested to determine whether they continue to operate as intended while and after the electromagnetic radiation is incident on them. The setup for the electromagnetic radiation resistance test may be the same as the setup for the electromagnetic radiation test. That is, in some examples, the same antenna and a standardized distance between the antenna and the device may be used. In one example, the electromagnetic radiation resistance test exposes the device to an electric field of strength 3 V / m with a frequency of 80 MHz to 1 GHz and evaluates all effects of this radiation on the operability of the device.

[0046] In some examples, the devices of the present invention may be configured to satisfy one or more predetermined levels of radiation over a specific frequency range. For example, the level of conducted noise from a power cable supplying power to charge the device may be limited to a predetermined level. Such levels of conducted radiation may serve to protect broadcast and telecommunications services used near the device. In one example, over the frequency range of 150 kHz to 30 MHz, the level of conducted electromagnetic radiation of the device of the present invention is less than approximately 66 dBμV. In some examples, the device of the present invention may be configured so that the level of conducted electromagnetic radiation is less than approximately 66 dBμV over the frequency range of 150 kHz to 500 kHz, and so that the level of conducted electromagnetic radiation is less than approximately 66 dBμV at approximately 150 kHz and less than approximately 56 dBμV at approximately 500 kHz. Over the frequency range of 500 kHz to 5 MHz, the device may be configured so that the level of conducted electromagnetic radiation is less than approximately 56 dBμV. Over the frequency range of 5 MHz to 30 MHz, the device may be configured so that the level of conducted electromagnetic radiation is less than approximately 60 dBμV. In some cases, the level of conducted electromagnetic radiation may be determined by measuring quasi-peak levels, which can be measured using well-understood techniques.

[0047] To provide the electromagnetically resistant devices described above with some levels of electromagnetic radiation and, in some cases, with the aforementioned electromagnetically resistant devices, the inventors provide a function of the device that reduces the level of radiation emitted from the device over relevant frequency ranges, and also provides resistance to electromagnetic radiation incident on the device. Certain functions may involve shielding components of the device, thus providing a certain level of resistance to incident electromagnetic radiation. For example, the device may include a magnetic shielding member to block or absorb electromagnetic radiation emitted by components of the device. For example, the magnetic shielding member may extend at least partially around an inductive member to shield other nearby electrical devices (as well as other electrical components of an aerosol generating device) from electromagnetic radiation emitted by the inductive member. If the inductive member is a coil, the magnetic shield may extend around the coil, and the shield may be at least partially coupled to itself to fix the shield in place around the coil.

[0048] The magnetic shielding member may include layers / sheets made of one or more ferrite materials to mitigate the effects of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device components. Furthermore, the magnetic shield may act to shield the device components from incident electromagnetic radiation, thus providing a certain degree of resistance to electromagnetic radiation incident on the device.

[0049] In some cases, ferrite material may be bonded to the inner surface of the device housing / cover, but this requires a large amount of ferrite material to contain a moderate amount of electromagnetic radiation. Since this material is relatively heavy, bulky, and expensive, it is desirable to reduce the amount used.

[0050] Some of the examples described herein provide configurations for more effective magnetic shielding members within aerosol generating devices. As a result, in some examples, the devices of the present invention include a magnetic shielding member that contacts and at least partially extends around an inductor coil. The magnetic shielding member includes a material such as ferrite that absorbs / blocks electromagnetic radiation. By placing it closer to the inductor coil, a smaller amount of ferrite is required. In some situations, it has been found that an effective level of electromagnetic shielding can be provided while reducing the amount of material used by up to 30%.

[0051] The inductor coil may extend spirally around the susceptor / receiving portion. The susceptor may define a longitudinal axis susceptor such that the magnetic shielding member extends around the longitudinal axis in the azimuthal direction, thus forming a complete or incomplete tubular structure.

[0052] The magnetic shielding member may include a magnetic shielding layer, such as a ferrite layer. Ferrite is a ferrimagnetic material in the sense that it can be magnetized and / or is attracted to a magnet. In some examples, the magnetic shielding layer is magnetized.

[0053] The aerosol generating device may include two or more inductor coils. For example, the first inductor coil may extend around the first portion of the receiving / susceptor, and the second inductor coil may extend around the second portion of the receiving / susceptor. The first and second inductor coils may be arranged adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis of the receiving / susceptor. In such a device, a magnetic shielding member may be in contact with the first and second inductor coils and extend at least partially around them.

[0054] In some configurations, the magnetic shielding member may be bonded to the inductor coil by an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer holds the magnetic shielding member in place, thereby providing a reasonably reliable shield from electromagnetic radiation. The adhesive may be applied to the inductor coil, and the magnetic shielding member may be in contact with the adhesive. Alternatively, the magnetic shielding member may include an adhesive layer and therefore be self-adhesive. For example, the magnetic shielding member may include a magnetic shielding layer and an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer may be formed on the inner surface of the magnetic shielding member (i.e., the surface located close to the inductor coil). This can make the assembly of the device more efficient and effective. For example, the magnetic shielding member can be directly attached to the inductor coil without first applying adhesive to the inductor coil.

[0055] The magnetic shielding member is rolled around the inductor coil and bonded at least partially to the magnetic shielding member itself. Such a configuration provides more effective protection / enclosure shielding from electromagnetic radiation because the magnetic shielding member is partially or completely sealed along its length. For example, the first edge of the magnetic shielding member overlaps with the second edge of the magnetic shielding member, and the magnetic shielding member is bonded / adhered to the magnetic shielding member itself in the overlapping region. Thus, the magnetic shielding member may be formed from a sheet that is rolled into a tube. Bonding may be performed, for example, by an adhesive layer of the magnetic shielding member.

[0056] The magnetic shielding member may include at least one magnetic shielding layer and at least one laminate layer, which may be in addition to or instead of the adhesive layer. It is known that ferrite material (i.e., the magnetic shielding layer) begins to disintegrate over time as a result of repeated heating and cooling within an aerosol generating device. The disintegrating material can crumble and make noise within the device. The crumbled material can damage or affect other components of the device. By including a laminate layer (such as a layer made of film), the magnetic shielding member becomes less prone to disintegration and crumbling.

[0057] The laminate layer may be positioned toward the outer surface of the magnetic shielding member. For example, it may be positioned radially outward from the magnetic shielding layer. In one example, the laminate layer forms the outer surface of the magnetic shielding member. However, in other examples, there may be another layer forming the outer layer, where the outer surface is the side away from the inductor coil. The laminate layer may be bonded to the magnetic shielding layer via an adhesive, or it may be self-bonded to the magnetic shielding layer.

[0058] In one example, the laminate layer contains a plastic material. The laminate layer may be, for example, a plastic film. In a specific example, the plastic is polyethylene terephthalate, or PET.

[0059] The magnetic shielding member may be formed from a sheet, and the sheet may include notches, which are configured to receive sections of wire forming an inductor coil. These sections of wire may include, for example, the ends of the inductor coil. Including one or more notches allows the magnetic shielding member to conform well to the shape of the inductor coil. The notches / cuts mean that the sheet can be easily wound around the inductor coil while ensuring a good shielding effect. A notch is a notch made on the edge of the sheet.

[0060] The sheet may be a rectangular sheet having one or more notches or cuts. For example, a rectangular sheet may undergo a "notching" process, where the sheet material is removed. Alternatively, the sheet may be manufactured with the notches pre-formed.

[0061] The aerosol generating device may further include a second inductor coil adjacent to the inductor coil, and the sheet may include a second notch formed in the sheet. The second notch is configured to receive a section of wire forming the second inductor coil. Including the additional notch allows the magnetic shielding member to better conform to the shapes of the two inductor coils.

[0062] In certain examples, the notch is a first notch, which may be formed on the first edge of the sheet, and the second notch may be formed on the second edge of the sheet. Having notches on different edges allows the magnetic shielding member to be easily attached to the inductor coil. For example, during assembly, the first notch may be aligned with the first inductor coil before the second notch is wound around the inductor coil that houses the second inductor coil.

[0063] The first notch may be offset from the second notch in a direction along the longitudinal axis defined by the receiving part / susceptor. This offset of the notch can facilitate the assembly of the device. For example, the notch ensures that the sheet is properly wound onto the coil.

[0064] As described above, notches are notches made on the edge of the sheet. These allow the sheet to be wound around one or more inductor coils after the sheet and inductor coils have been assembled and connected to the printed circuit board. In another embodiment, the notches may be replaced with through holes / openings, and both ends of the inductor coils may be housed in the openings. Such a configuration provides higher shielding compared to notches, but the magnetic shielding member needs to be wound around one or more inductor coils before, for example, the ends of one or more inductor coils are connected to the printed circuit board.

[0065] In some examples, the device of the present invention includes a rechargeable power source, such as a battery, which is charged via a socket. The socket receives a charging cable that supplies power to charge the power source. Power may be supplied, for example, from a power outlet or from an external energy storage power source such as a battery pack. The device may emit electromagnetic radiation while charging. For example, during charging, the device may emit spikes of emitted electromagnetic radiation by switching the charging circuit. The device of the present invention may be configured such that the emitted radiation, including the spikes, is within the levels described above while charging.

[0066] In some examples, the device of the present invention includes a charging circuit that manages the charging of a battery. In some examples, the charging management circuit also manages power to various electrical components of the device. For example, the charging circuit may operate as a switch-mode charger that supplies a desired voltage to the battery for charging. In some examples, the charging circuit includes a charging management device that performs a switching operation to ensure that the charging circuit operates as a switch-mode charger. In some examples, the input section of the charging circuit is connected between an external power source and the charging management device, and the output section of the charging circuit is connected between the charging management device and the battery or between the charging management device and components of a device that are not part of the charging circuit.

[0067] Some example charging circuits are configured such that any electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device due to the operation of the charging circuit falls within the levels described above. For example, a charging circuit may include components that function to limit the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted during charging. In particular, a charging circuit may include a feature that limits the level of electromagnetic radiation spikes due to switching operations during charging. In one example, such a feature may include a snubber circuit configured to limit the rate of change of voltage between several points in the charging circuit during a switching operation. The snubber circuit in one example includes a resistor and a capacitor connected in series between a point in the charging circuit and ground. The values ​​of the resistor and capacitor in the snubber circuit may be selected such that the rate of change of voltage during the switching operation is effectively reduced, i.e., the voltage spikes due to the switching operation are effectively "buffered". The values ​​of the resistor and capacitor in the snubber circuit may be determined by the operating frequency, input voltage, or output voltage of the charging circuit, or all of them.

[0068] The point in the charging circuit to which the snubber circuit is connected may also be chosen to effectively reduce voltage spikes. In some examples, the output section of the charging circuit includes an output inductor, and the snubber circuit is connected between one end of the output inductor and ground.

[0069] In some examples, the input section of the charging circuit is configured to limit the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the charging operation. In some examples, the input section includes an input capacitor, and the location and capacitance of the input capacitor may be selected to perform the function of an input capacitor in a switch-mode charging circuit while limiting the emitted electromagnetic radiation to a specific level. In some examples, the input section includes one or more inductors. Any number of such inductors and their characteristics, such as inductance and DC resistance, may be selected to limit the level of emitted electromagnetic radiation.

[0070] In some cases, the layout of the printed circuit board, including the charging circuit and, in other cases, other electrical components of the device, is configured to limit the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device.

[0071] Figure 1 schematically shows an example of a setup for measuring the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by an aerosol generating device 100. In Figure 1, the device 100 is positioned on a turntable 50 located 0.8 m above the ground. The turntable 50 can rotate 360°, allowing the device to rotate so that the maximum radiation level can be measured. An antenna 51 is mounted on an antenna tower 52 and is measured horizontally 3 m away from the device 100. The antenna 52 is movable from a distance of 1 m to 4 m above the ground, allowing the maximum radiation level from the device 100 to be measured in a well-understood "maximization" manner. In one example, the antenna 51 is a BiLog ultrawideband antenna. A test receiver 53 is connected to the antenna 51 via an electrical cable 54 so that the test receiver 53 is configured to receive electrical signals from the antenna 51. In one example, the device 100 and other equipment shown in Figure 1 may be placed in an insulated chamber. Figure 1 shows a charging cable 55 for supplying power from an external power source (not shown) so that the device 100 can be tested while it is charging. In some examples, the charging cable 55 includes a YJC010W-0502000J power supply unit (PSU) configured to connect to an external power source. When testing device 100 while it is discharging, for example, during an operation that generates aerosols, the charging cable 55 is not typically present.

[0072] In some cases, a configuration as shown in Figure 1 may be used to test the resistance of device 100 to electromagnetic radiation. In one example of such a test, antenna 51 emits electromagnetic radiation with a frequency of 80 MHz to 1 GHz and an electric field strength of 3 V / m. The functionality of device 100 may be tested to determine whether there is any performance degradation or loss of function due to the incident electromagnetic radiation.

[0073] Figure 2 shows a plot of the levels of electromagnetic radiation emitted by an example of device 100 under an example test setup as described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 2 shows the results from device 100 during discharge, for example, while being used to generate aerosols from an aerosol-generating material contained in an article contained by the device. In this example, plot 2001, spanning the frequency range of 30 Hz to 1 GHz, is derived from a combination of measurements in the horizontal and vertical planes and may be called a combined horizontal and vertical max-hold peak detection preview scan. The first set of markers 2002 above plot 2001 represent the maximum peak detections measured during a particular reference technique and are included for reference only. The second set of markers 2003 below plot 2001 are maximum quasi-peak detections that may be compared to a reference level of radiation emitted over a particular frequency range to determine the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by device 100 using a well-known technique. In some examples, the average level of radiation emitted over a particular frequency range may be determined in a manner that would be well understood. Figures 2 and 3 also include reference lines 2004, which for reference purposes only, showing reference levels of emitted radiation at 40 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 88 MHz, 43.5 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 88 MHz to 216 MHz, 46 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 216 MHz to 960 MHz, and 54 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 960 MHz to 1 GHz. In some cases, the level of emitted radiation measured by an example device may be compared to such reference levels.

[0074] Figure 2 shows that plot 2001, which illustrates the level of radiation emitted while device 100 is discharging, remains well below 40 dBμV / m across the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and well below 47 dBμV / m across the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz. This confirms the facts regarding plot 2001, peak marker 2002, and quasi-peak marker 2002. Furthermore, plot 2001 remains below approximately 20 dBμV / m between frequencies of 30 MHz to approximately 400 MHz. Plot 2001 remains below approximately 32.5 dBμV / m across the entire frequency range of 30 MHz to 1 GHz.

[0075] Figure 3 shows plot 3001 of the test results obtained according to a method equivalent to the one described in Figure 2. Plot 3001 in Figure 3 is a plot of the level of radiation emitted from device 100 during charging. As described in Figure 2, the first set of markers 3002 represent maximum peak detection, and the second set of markers represent minimum quasi-peak detection.

[0076] Figure 3 shows that plot 3001, which illustrates the level of radiation emitted from device 100 during charging, remains well below 40 dBμV / m across the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and well below 47 dBμV / m across the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz. Furthermore, plot 3001 remains below approximately 35 dBμV / m between frequencies of 30 MHz to approximately 500 MHz and remains below approximately 37.5 dBμV / m across the entire frequency range of 30 MHz to 1 GHz.

[0077] Figure 4 shows an example of an aerosol generating device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating medium / aerosol generating medium material. In general, the device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable article 110 containing an aerosol generating medium to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that can be inhaled by the user of the device 100.

[0078] Device 100 includes a housing 102 (in the form of an outer cover) that encloses and accommodates various components of device 100. Device 100 has an opening 104 at one end through which an article 110 is inserted for heating by a heating assembly. During use, the article 110 may be fully or partially inserted into the heating assembly, where it may be heated by one or more components of the heating assembly.

[0079] The device 100 in this example includes a first end member 106, which includes a lid 108, which is movable relative to the first end member 106 to close the opening 104 when the article 110 is not in place. In Figure 4, the lid 108 is shown in the closed position, but the lid 108 may be moved to the closed position. For example, the user may slide the lid 108 in the direction of arrow A.

[0080] Device 100 may include a user-operable adjustment member 112, such as a button or switch, which activates device 100 when pressed. For example, the user may turn on device 100 by operating the switch 112.

[0081] Device 100 also includes electrical components such as sockets / ports 114, which may house cables for charging the device 100's battery. For example, socket 114 may be a charging port such as a USB charging port or, more specifically, a USB-B charging port.

[0082] Figure 5 shows the device 100 from Figure 4 with the outer cover 102 removed. The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134.

[0083] As shown in Figure 5, the first end member 106 is positioned at one end of the device 100, and the second end member 116 is positioned at the opposite end of the device 100. The first and second end members 106 and 116 both define at least partially the end faces of the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end member 116 defines at least partially the bottom face of the device 100. The edge of the outer cover 102 also defines part of the end face. In this example, the lid 108 also defines part of the top surface of the device 100. Figure 5 also shows a related second printed circuit board 138 inside the adjustment member 112.

[0084] The end of the device closest to the opening 104 is also known as the proximal end (or mouthpiece end) of the device 100, as it is closer to the user's mouth during use. During use, the user inserts an item 110 into the opening 104, operates the user control unit to start heating the aerosol generating material, and inhales the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along the channel toward the proximal end of the device 100.

[0085] The other end of the device, away from the opening 104, is the end that moves away from the user's mouth during use, and is therefore also known as the distal end of device 100. When a user inhales the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of device 100.

[0086] Device 100 further includes a power supply 118. The power supply 118 may be a battery, such as a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically connected to the heating assembly and supplies power as needed and under the control of a controller (not shown) to heat the aerosol generating material. In this example, the battery is connected to a central support 120 that holds the battery 118 in place.

[0087] The device further includes at least one electronic module. The electronic module 122 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one processor and a controller such as memory. The PCB 122 may also include one or more electrical tracks that electrically connect various electronic components of the device 100 together. For example, battery terminals are electrically connected to the PCB 122 so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100. The socket 114 may also be electrically coupled to the battery via the electrical tracks.

[0088] In the example of device 100, the heating assembly is an induction heating assembly and includes various components for heating the aerosol generating material of article 110 via an induction heating process. Induction heating is the process of heating a conductive object (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may include induction members, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a fluctuating current, such as an alternating current, through the induction members. The fluctuating current in the induction members generates a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic field preferably penetrates a susceptor positioned relative to the induction members, generating eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has electrical resistance to eddy currents, and therefore the flow of eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to be heated by Joule heating. If the susceptor contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses within the susceptor, i.e., by a change in the orientation of the magnetic dipoles of the magnetic material as a result of matching the fluctuating magnetic field. In induction heating, for example, heat is released into the susceptor compared to conduction heating, enabling rapid heating. Furthermore, there is no need for any physical contact between the dielectric heater and the susceptor, which increases the flexibility of the structure and application.

[0089] The induction heating assembly in the example of device 100 includes a susceptor structure 132 (hereinafter referred to as "susceptor"), a first inductor coil 124, and a second inductor coil 126. The first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are made from a conductive material. In this example, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are made from Litz wire / cable, which is wound spirally to provide helical inductor coils 124 and 126. Litz wire consists of multiple individual wires, which are individually insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wire is designed to reduce skin effect losses in the conductor. In the example of device 100, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are made from copper Litz wire with a substantially circular cross-section. In other examples, the Litz wire may have a cross-section of other shapes, such as rectangular.

[0090] The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first fluctuating magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor 132, and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second fluctuating magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor 132. Here, the first section of the susceptor 132 is referred to as the first susceptor region 132a, and the second section of the susceptor 132 is referred to as the second susceptor region 132b. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 in the direction along the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100 (i.e., the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 do not overlap). In this example, the susceptor device 132 includes a single susceptor containing two regions, but in other examples, the susceptor device 132 may include two or more separate susceptors. The ends 130 of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are connected to the PCB.

[0091] Naturally, in some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 may have at least one distinct characteristic from each other. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may have at least one distinct characteristic from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different inductance value from the second inductor coil 126. In Figure 5, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 differ in length such that the first inductor coil 124 is wound on a smaller section of the susceptor 132 than the second inductor coil 126. Thus, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different number of turns from the second inductor coil 126 (assuming the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, the first inductor coil 124 may be made from a different material than the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 may be substantially the same.

[0092] In this example, inductor coils 124 and 126 are wound in the same direction. That is, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are left-handed helices. In another example, both inductor coils 124 and 126 may be right-handed helices. In yet another example (not shown), the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are wound in opposite directions. This is useful when the inductor coils are active at different times. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may act first to heat the first section of article 110, and then the second inductor coil 126 may act to heat the second section of article 110. Winding the coils in different directions helps reduce the current induced in the inductor coils when used with certain types of control circuits. In one example (not shown) where coils 124 and 126 are wound in different directions, the first inductor coil 124 may be a right-handed helice and the second inductor coil 126 may be a left-handed helice. In another such embodiment, the first inductor coil 124 may be a left-handed helix and the second inductor coil 126 may be a right-handed helix.

[0093] In this example, the susceptor 132 is hollow and thus defines a receiving portion within which an aerosol generating material is contained. For example, article 110 can be inserted into the susceptor 132. In this example, the susceptor 132 is tubular with a circular cross-section.

[0094] The vise 100 in Figure 5 is generally tubular and further includes an insulating member 128 that at least partially surrounds the susceptor 132. The insulating member 128 may be made of any insulating material, such as plastic. In this particular example, the insulating member is made of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 helps to insulate the various components of the device 100 from the heat generated inside the susceptor 132.

[0095] The insulating member 128 may also fully or partially support the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are positioned around the insulating member 128 and in contact with the radially outward surface of the insulating member 128. In some examples, the insulating member 128 does not contact the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. For example, a small gap may exist between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and the inner surfaces of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126.

[0096] In a specific example, the susceptor 132, the insulating member 128, and the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are coaxial with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132.

[0097] Figure 6 is a side view showing a partial cross-section of device 100. The outer cover 102 is not shown in this example either. The rectangular cross-sectional shapes of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are clearly visible in Figure 6.

[0098] The device 100 further includes a support 136 that engages with one end of the susceptor 132 to hold the susceptor 132 in place. The support 136 is connected to the second end member 116.

[0099] Device 100 further includes a second lid / cap 140 and a spring 142 located toward the distal end of device 100. The spring 142 opens the second lid 140, allowing access to the susceptor 132. The user may, for example, open the second lid 140 to clean the susceptor 132 and / or support 136.

[0100] The device 100 further includes an expansion chamber 144 extending away from the proximal end of the susceptor 132 toward the opening 104 of the device. At least partially located within the expansion chamber 144 is a retaining clip 146 that contacts and holds the article 110 when housed within the device 100. The expansion chamber 144 is connected to an end member 106.

[0101] Figure 6 also shows a charging printed circuit board 123 located adjacent to the socket 114 and positioned on a charging device (an example of which is described below with reference to Figure 16) for providing charging and power supply functions for the device 100.

[0102] Figure 7 is an exploded view of the device 100 from Figure 4, with the outer cover 102 removed again.

[0103] Figure 8A shows a cross-section of a portion of the device 100 in Figure 4. Figure 8B shows a magnified view of a region in Figure 8A. Figures 8A and 8B show an article 110 housed within the susceptor 132, with dimensions such that its outer surface contacts the inner surface of the susceptor 132. This ensures the most efficient heating. In this example, article 110 includes an aerosol generating material 110a, which is positioned within the susceptor 132. Article 110 may also include other components such as filter packaging and / or a cooling structure.

[0104] Figure 8B shows that the outer surface of the susceptor 132 is separated from the inner surfaces of the inductor coils 124 and 126 by a distance of 150, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 150 is approximately 3mm to 4mm, approximately 3mm to 3.5mm, or approximately 3.25mm.

[0105] Figure 8B further shows that the outer surface of the insulating member 128 is separated from the inner surface of the inductor coils 124 and 126 by a distance 152 measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance is approximately 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance 152 is substantially 0 mm, so that the inductor coils 124 and 126 are in contact with and touching the insulating member 128.

[0106] In one example, the wall thickness of susceptor 132 is approximately 0.025 mm to 1 mm or approximately 0.05 mm.

[0107] In one example, the length of the susceptor 132 is approximately 40mm to 60mm, approximately 40mm to 45mm, or approximately 44.5mm.

[0108] In one example, the wall thickness 156 of the insulating member 128 is approximately 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or approximately 0.5 mm.

[0109] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the printed circuit board, PCB 122, susceptor 132, first inductor coil 124, and second inductor coil 126. In this example, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are made from wire having a circular cross-section. The first and second ends 130a and 130b of the first inductor coil 124 are connected to PCB 122. Similarly, the first and second ends 130c and 130d of the second inductor coil 126 are connected to PCB 122. In some examples, there may be only one inductor coil.

[0110] A magnetic shielding member 202 extends around the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. This magnetic shielding member 202 contacts and surrounds the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 to shield other parts and / or objects of the device 100 from electromagnetic radiation generated within the susceptor and / or the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. The magnetic shielding member 202 is shown to be transparent to clearly indicate that the inductor coils 124 and 126 and the susceptor 132 are located within the magnetic shielding member 202. In this example, the magnetic shielding member 202 is held in place with adhesive. In other examples, other functions / components of the device 100 or the magnetic shielding member 202 may hold the magnetic shielding member 202 in place.

[0111] The susceptor 132 defines a receiving portion configured to house the article 110 and contain the aerosol generating material. In other examples (not shown), the susceptor 132 is part of the article 110 rather than the device 100, and therefore other parts may define the receiving portion. The receiving portion / susceptor 132 defines an axis 158, such as a longitudinal axis 158 around which the magnetic shielding member 202 is wound.

[0112] The magnetic shielding member 202 includes one or more components that function as shields against electromagnetic radiation. In this example, the magnetic shielding member 202 may include a magnetic shielding layer, such as a ferrite layer, that functions as a shield.

[0113] The magnetic shielding member 202 may include one or more further layers. For example, the magnetic shielding member 202 may further include an adhesive layer and / or a laminate layer, as described in Figure 10.

[0114] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of an example of a magnetic shielding member 202 before it is wound around the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. The magnetic shielding member 202 is in the form of a sheet.

[0115] In this example, the magnetic shielding member 202 includes at least three layers, including a magnetic shielding layer 206, an adhesive layer 204 applied to the first surface of the magnetic shielding layer 206, and a laminate layer 208 applied to the second surface of the magnetic shielding layer 206.

[0116] The adhesive layer 204 is positioned on the inner side of the magnetic shielding member 202 so that the magnetic shielding member 202 can be bonded to the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. An additional protective layer (not shown) may cover the adhesive layer 204, which is then removed before the magnetic shielding member 202 is bonded to the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126, exposing the adhesive layer 204. The inner side of the magnetic shielding member 202 is the side that is closer to the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 when the magnetic shielding member 202 is in contact with them. As the magnetic shielding member 202 is wound around the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126, the magnetic shielding member overlaps with itself in the overlapping region such that a portion of the adhesive layer 204 is in contact with the laminate layer 208.

[0117] The laminate layer 208 is positioned on or towards the outward side of the magnetic shielding member 202. The outward side of the magnetic shielding member 202 is the side away from the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 when the magnetic shielding member 202 is in contact with the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. In some examples, an additional layer (not shown) forms the outward side of the magnetic shielding member 202.

[0118] As described above, the ferrite material of the magnetic shielding layer 206 can decompose over many heating and cooling cycles. The laminate layer 208 serves to prevent the decomposing material of the magnetic shielding layer 206 from breaking apart and moving around inside the device 100. The laminate layer 208 contains a plastic material, which may be, for example, a plastic film. In this example, the plastic is polyethylene terephthalate, or PET.

[0119] In the example shown in Figure 10, the laminate layer 208 is directly adjacent to the magnetic shield layer 206. For example, the laminate layer 208 may be bonded to the magnetic shield layer 206 by heat sealing. In another example, a second adhesive layer (not shown) may be placed between the laminate layer 208 and the magnetic shield layer 206.

[0120] Figure 11 shows the top view of the configuration shown in Figure 9. The receiving portion 212, defined by the susceptor 132, houses the aerosol generating material. The arrow 210 indicates the radial direction, pointing outward from the receiving portion / susceptor. When the magnetic shielding member 202 of Figure 10 is wound around the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126, the laminate layer 208 is positioned further radially 210 from the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 than the adhesive layer 204.

[0121] As shown in Figures 9 and 11, the first and second ends 130a and 130b of the first inductor coil 124 pass through notches / holes / openings formed in the magnetic shielding member 202. These notches cause the magnetic shielding member 202 to take on a shape closer to that of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126.

[0122] Figure 12 shows the magnetic shielding member 202 separated from the other components. The sheet-like magnetic shielding member 202 is rolled up into a cylindrical tube and overlaps in the overlapping region 224. The presence of the adhesive layer 204 means that the magnetic shielding member 202 is bonded to itself in the overlapping region 224, providing good sealing. In other examples, the magnetic shielding member 202 does not extend completely around the first and second inductor coils 124, 126.

[0123] The magnetic shielding member 202 includes four notches 214, 216, 218, and 220. In other examples, there may be one or more notches. The notches 214, 216, 218, and 220 are formed on the edges of the magnetic shielding member 202 and each houses a section of wire that forms the inductor coils 124, 126. These sections of wire include the first and second ends 130a, 130b, 130c, and 130d of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126, as shown in Figure 9.

[0124] Figure 13 shows the magnetic shielding member 202 of Figure 12 before it is wound around the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. The magnetic shielding member 202 is formed from a substantially rectangular sheet. The sheet defines an axis 222 that is aligned parallel to the axis defined by the receiving portion / susceptor 132 when the magnetic shielding member 202 is wound around the inductor coils 124 and 126, and an axis defined by the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126.

[0125] The sheet includes a first notch 214 formed on the first edge of the sheet. The first notch 214 accommodates a section of wire forming a first inductor coil 124, the section of wire including a first end 130a. The sheet also includes a second notch 218 formed on the second edge 224 of the sheet. The second notch 218 accommodates a section of wire forming a second inductor coil 126, the section of wire including a first end 130c. The sheet further includes a third notch 216 formed on the second edge 226 of the sheet. The third notch 216 accommodates a second section of wire forming the first inductor coil 124, the second section of wire including a second end 130b. The sheet also includes a fourth notch 220 formed on the second edge 226 of the sheet. The fourth notch 220 accommodates a second section of wire forming the second inductor coil 126, the second section of wire including a second end 130b. Thus, there are two notches formed on the opposing edges of the sheet for each inductor coil.

[0126] Notches 214, 216, 218, and 220 are all offset from each other in a direction along the axis 222 defined by the sheet (and therefore all offset from each other in a direction along the longitudinal axis 158 defined by the susceptor 132 when the magnetic shielding member 202 is in a predetermined position).

[0127] Figure 14 shows another example of a magnetic shielding member 302 that can be used in device 100. The magnetic shielding member 302 is formed from a substantially rectangular sheet. The sheet defines an axis 322 that is aligned parallel to the axis defined by the receiving / susceptor 132 when the magnetic shielding member 302 is wound around the inductor coils 124, 126, and the axis defined by the first and second inductor coils 124, 126.

[0128] Unlike the example in Figure 13, the magnetic shielding member 302 includes a notch formed along one edge of the sheet. For example, the sheet includes a first notch 314 formed on the first edge 324 of the sheet. The first notch 314 accommodates a section of wire forming the first inductor coil 124, and that section of wire includes a first end 130a. The sheet also includes a second notch 318 formed on the first edge 324 of the sheet. The second notch 318 accommodates a section of wire forming the second inductor coil 126, and that section of wire includes a first end 130c. The sheet also includes a third notch 316 formed on the first edge 324 of the sheet. The third notch 316 accommodates a second section of wire forming the first inductor coil 124, and that second section of wire includes a second end 130b. The sheet also includes a fourth notch 320 formed on the first edge 324 of the sheet. The fourth notch 320 accommodates a second section of wire forming the second inductor coil 126, the second section of wire including a second end 130b. Thus, there are two notches formed on the same edge of the sheet for each inductor coil.

[0129] Notches 314, 316, 318, and 320 are all offset from each other in a direction along the axis 322 defined by the sheet (and therefore all offset from each other in a direction along the longitudinal axis 158 defined by the susceptor 132 when the magnetic shielding member 302 is in a predetermined position).

[0130] Figure 15 shows another example of a magnetic shielding member 402 that can be used in device 100. The magnetic shielding member 402 is formed from a substantially rectangular sheet. The sheet defines an axis 422 that is aligned parallel to the axis defined by the receiving / susceptor 132 when the magnetic shielding member 202 is wound around the inductor coils 124, 126, and the axis defined by the first and second inductor coils 124, 126.

[0131] Unlike the examples in Figures 13 and 14, the magnetic shielding member 402 includes holes / openings / through-holes formed in the sheet. Therefore, the ends of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 must first pass through these openings before being connected to the PCB 122.

[0132] The sheet includes a first opening 414 for housing a section of wire forming a first inductor coil 124, the section of wire including a first end 130a. The sheet also includes a second opening 418 for housing a section of wire forming a second inductor coil 126, the section of wire including a first end 130c. The sheet further includes a third opening 416 for housing a second section of wire forming the first inductor coil 124, the second section of wire including a second end 130b. The sheet also includes a fourth opening for housing a second section forming the second inductor coil 126, the second section of wire including a second end 130b.

[0133] The openings 414, 416, 418, and 420 are all offset from each other in a direction along the axis 422 defined by the sheet (and therefore all offset from each other in a direction along the longitudinal axis 158 defined by the susceptor 132 when the magnetic shielding member 402 is in a predetermined position).

[0134] Figure 16 schematically shows the apparatus 500 of the aerosol generating device 100. The description of Figure 16 here focuses on the specific function of the apparatus 500 configured to reduce the emission of electromagnetic radiation from device 100. The apparatus 500 is housed in device 100, and in some examples on a printed circuit board 123 adjacent to socket 114, and is for controlling the charging of battery 118 from an external power source (not shown). The apparatus 500 includes a charge management device 550. The charge management device 550 in this example is a Texas Instruments bq25898 integrated circuit charge management and system power path management device, and its general operation should be understood from the known specifications of this integrated circuit device. The charge management device 550 is connected to the external power source by an input section 510. The apparatus 500 further includes an output section 520 connected between the terminals of the charge management device 550. In this example, the charge management device 550 also functions as a power management system that controls the DC power supplied to other electrical components of device 100. Therefore, the device 500 may function as a junction between the external power supply and the battery 118, and may also function as a junction between the battery 118 and other electrical components of the device 100.

[0135] The device 500 is configured to emit a certain level of electromagnetic radiation from the device 100 during charging, thereby ensuring that the device meets the aforementioned level of emitted electromagnetic radiation. The input section 510 and output section 520 are configured to limit the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the device 500 during charging of the device 100. In particular, the device 500 is configured to limit the radiation spikes emitted during the power cycle and during switching operations performed by the charge management device 550 during charging.

[0136] The input section of the charging device 500 is configured to receive a 5V input 511 from the USB-C charging port 114. An input inductor L3 is connected between the input 511 via the first line 512 and the first connection VBUS of the charging management device 550. The inductor L3 has a DC resistance of 120Ω ± 25% and 25mΩ at 100MHz. The inductor L3 is selected to reduce the amount of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the charging device 500. The input inductor L3 is configured to reduce high-frequency signals emitted from the device 500. A reference signal +5USB is taken at a point on the first line 512 between the charging management device 550 and the input inductor L3. Furthermore, the input section 510 includes a second line 513 connected between the input 511 and the second connection PMID of the charging management device 550. A 100nF capacitor C7 is connected in series between the input 511 and ground on the second line 513. The 10μF capacitor C113 and the 1nF capacitor C142 are connected in parallel on the second line between ground and the second connection PMID. Various capacitors C4, C12, C6, C141, C110 and diode D3 are connected in parallel between the first line 512 and the second line 513. The arrangement of components defining the input section 510 plays a role in reducing the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device 500. For example, the inductor L3 and various capacitors provide a filtering effect for signals of various frequencies.

[0137] The output section 520 of the device 500 is connected to the third connector SW, fourth connector BTST, and fifth connector SYS of the charge management device 550. The third connector SW is a replacement node and is connected to a 1μH output inductor L102, which is connected between the third connector SW and the fifth connector SYS. A 47nF capacitor C109 and a 10Ω resistor are connected in series to the fourth connector BTST. Two 10μF capacitors C117 and C138 are connected in parallel between the fifth connector SYS and ground. The functions of connectors SW, SYS, and BTST on the output section 520 of the charge management device 550 should be understood from the technical specifications of this management device, for example, manufactured by Instruments, Texas.

[0138] The output section 520 includes a “snubber circuit” connected between the third connection SW and ground. The snubber circuit includes a 2.2nF capacitor C136 and a resistor R137 of approximately 1Ω, connected in series, which reduce, i.e., “buffer” transient signals that would be picked up by the charge management device 550 and cause undesirable electromagnetic radiation. The inventors have found that the arrangement of the snubber circuit including capacitor C136 and R137, as shown in Figure 16, reduces electromagnetic radiation caused by voltage spikes that occur particularly during charge switching operations.

[0139] The layout of the components forming the device 500 on the PCB 122 within device 100 may also be configured to maintain the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted during charging within the aforementioned levels. For example, the orientation of the inductor L102 on the PCB 122 is selected to limit the level of radiation emitted while optimizing effective grounding of components to reduce electrical noise. Effective grounding is achieved, for example, by providing a good grounding area between a particular component and the PCB 122.

[0140] In certain examples, device 100, for example, a controller of device 100 (not shown), is configured to rapidly output a fluctuating voltage signal to control various functions of device 100. For example, a fluctuating voltage signal at a specific frequency may be used to supply control functions to an induction heating circuit including coils 124, 126. In some examples, these rapidly fluctuating signals may be filtered to remove specific AC frequencies, thereby providing a substantially constant signal at a given frequency to provide a specific reference voltage for controlling specific properties of an induction circuit, for example, including coils 124, 126. For example, in one example, a filtered 20 kHz pulse-wave modulated signal may be filtered by appropriate filtering components, such as a capacitor and resistor structure, to provide a substantially constant reference voltage at a lower frequency, such as 64 Hz. This reference voltage may be used to control the properties of an induction circuit for operating inductor coils 124, 126. In some examples, the device of the present invention is configured to limit the peak level of emitted electromagnetic radiation by leaving a portion of the high-frequency signal, for example 20 kHz, exposed to a lower-frequency signal. This may be done in certain examples by a suitable selection of filtering components, such as capacitors and resistors. This diffuses the signal energy over a wider bandwidth, and therefore reduces electromagnetic radiation from device 100 more completely than when high-frequency signals are filtered.

[0141] The embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative examples useful for explaining the present invention. Further embodiments of the present invention are conceivable. Naturally, any feature described for any one embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features described, or in combination with one or more features of any other embodiment or any combination of any other embodiment. Furthermore, equivalents and modifiers not described above may also be adopted without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device including an induction heating circuit that includes an induction member configured to inductively heat a susceptor device to heat an aerosol generating material, thereby generating a fluctuating magnetic field for generating aerosols, The device is configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device during operation is less than 40 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over the frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz. The level of electromagnetic radiation is defined as the maximum radiation level from the device that can be measured while the device is operating, the device is located 0.8 m from the ground, and the measurement is performed at a distance of 3 m from the device in the horizontal plane and at a height in the vertical plane between 1 m and 4 m from the ground. The device includes a magnetic shielding member configured to surround the induction member, the magnetic shielding member being at least partially bonded to the magnetic shielding member itself and fixed at a predetermined position around the induction member, in an aerosol generating device.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the device is configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the operation of the device during operation is less than 40 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and less than 47 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the operation of the device during operation for charging the device and / or operation for discharging the device is less than 40 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

4. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device is the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted as measured in both the vertical plane and the horizontal plane.

5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device is the level of electromagnetic radiation measured using a test setup for measuring the level of emitted electromagnetic radiation, and optionally the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device is a level determined by measuring the peak or near-peak level of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device.

6. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the device includes a susceptor device, and the aerosol generating material is housed by the device such that the susceptor device heats the aerosol generating material during operation.

7. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the device is a tobacco heating device configured to heat tobacco material during operation but without burning it, thereby generating an aerosol from it.

8. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the device is a portable device.

9. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the device includes a receiving portion configured to house an aerosol generating material that is heated by a susceptor device during operation, and the inducting member is an inductor coil extending around the receiving portion.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, characterized in that the receiving portion is defined by a susceptor device.

11. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the device includes a charging device configured to control the charging of the device's battery from an external power source, and the charging device is configured such that, when operating to manage the charging of the device, the peak level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device due to the operation of the charging device is less than 40 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11, characterized in that the charging device is configured to perform a switching operation during charging, and the charging device includes a snubber circuit for limiting the rate of change of voltage during the switching operation of the charging device.

13. The charging device is An input section configured to connect to the aforementioned external power supply and receive power from it to charge the device, The output section connected to the output inductor, The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, further comprising a charge management controller connected between the input section and the output section, configured to receive power from the input section and control the current supplied to the output section.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, characterized in that the snubber circuit is located in the output section of the charging device.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the input section of the charging device includes an input inductor for filtering high-frequency signals that reach the charge management controller.

16. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the device is configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 1 GHz during operation to heat an aerosolizable material is less than approximately 35 dBμV / m.

17. The aerosol generating device according to claim 16, characterized in that the device is configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 400 MHz during the operation of heating an aerosolizable material is less than approximately 20 dBμV / m.

18. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the device is configured such that, during operation for charging the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over a frequency range of 300 MHz to 1 GHz is less than approximately 37.5 dBμV / m.

19. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the device is configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 500 MHz is less than approximately 35 dBμV / m during operation for charging the device.

20. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the device is configured such that the average electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device during operation over a frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz is less than approximately 50 dBμV / m, and / or the average electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device during operation over a frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz is less than approximately 54 dBμV / m.

21. A system comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, and a charging cable for charging the device from an external power source, wherein the system is configured such that, during the charging operation of the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than 40 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

22. The system according to claim 21, characterized in that the system is configured such that, during the charging operation of the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system over a frequency range of 300 MHz to 1 GHz is less than approximately 37.5 dBμV / m.

23. The system according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, during the charging operation of the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation transmitted to the charging cable by the operation of the device is less than approximately 66 dBμV over a frequency range of 150 kHz to 500 kHz and / or less than approximately 56 dBμV at approximately 500 kHz and / or less than approximately 56 dBμV over a frequency range of 500 kHz to 5 MHz and / or less than approximately 60 dBμV over a frequency range of 5 MHz to 30 MHz.

24. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 20 and an article containing an aerosolizable material, wherein the system is configured such that, during operation of generating an aerosol from the aerosolizable material, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than 40 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 225 MHz and / or less than 47 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 235 MHz to 1 GHz and / or less than 70 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 1 GHz to 3 GHz and / or less than 74 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 3 GHz to 6 GHz.

25. The aerosol generating system according to claim 24, characterized in that the system is configured such that, during operation to generate an aerosol from the aerosolizable material, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than approximately 35 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 500 MHz.

26. The aerosol generating system according to claim 25, characterized in that the system is configured such that, during operation to generate an aerosol from the aerosolizable material, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than approximately 20 dBμV / m over a frequency range of 30 MHz to 400 MHz.

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