Heater assemblies suitable for an aerosol delivery system having at least two atomization modes, and an aerosol delivery system
The dual heater assembly system with varying energy densities addresses the need for multiple atomization modes in aerosol delivery systems, enhancing performance and longevity by matching energy levels with e-liquid compositions and user preferences.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- KR · KR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- NICOVENTURES TRADING LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-21
AI Technical Summary
Existing aerosol delivery systems lack the ability to accommodate different atomization modes required for e-liquids with varying carbon deposition tendencies and user preferences, leading to potential damage and suboptimal performance.
The system incorporates at least two heater assemblies with distinct energy densities, each corresponding to a specific atomization mode, allowing for optimal vaporization performance across different modes by matching energy levels with e-liquid compositions and user preferences.
This design ensures optimal vaporization performance, prevents carbon accumulation, and extends the system's lifespan by ensuring compatibility with various e-liquids and power supply levels.
Smart Images

Figure PCT00005_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technology Field
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of aerosol delivery, and in particular to heater assemblies, an aerosol delivery system, and a control method for an aerosol delivery system. Background Technology
[0002] An aerosol delivery system refers to a system that receives an aerosol-generating material and generates an aerosol for a user puff by heating the aerosol-generating material (such as tobacco) rather than burning it.
[0003] An aerosol delivery system generally includes a housing, a receiving chamber within the housing, a cartomizer, a power source, and a controller. The receiving chamber serves to contain the aerosol-generating material. The cartomizer includes an atomizing chamber and a heater assembly located within the chamber.
[0004] It is understood that in aerosol-generating materials such as e-liquids, some components can carbonize at high temperatures, leading to carbon deposition on the heater assembly and affecting its performance. To satisfy different user preferences, various e-liquids are available on the market, each containing different components that can result in varying amounts of carbon deposition when vaporized at high temperatures. For example, e-liquids with higher sugar content tend to generate more carbon accumulation. Therefore, different atomization modes are required for e-liquids with varying levels of carbon deposition. For e-liquids prone to carbonization, a low-energy atomization mode may be used, whereas for e-liquids that are less carbonized, a high-energy mode may be utilized. Additionally, achieving optimal atomization for different e-liquid compositions also requires varying the energy levels of the atomization mode. Even when using the same e-liquid, users seeking different inhalation experiences—such as those who prefer high or low concentration aerosols—will require different energy levels in the atomization mode.
[0005] Current aerosol delivery systems typically feature a single heater assembly or two identical heater assemblies for redundancy in the event of a failure. Regardless of whether they have one or two identical elements, they provide the same energy output at a given power supply. Using the same heater assembly at different power levels to achieve varying energy outputs can lead to mismatch issues, potentially damaging the elements or causing a failure to reach an optimal atomization state. Consequently, existing heater assemblies in these systems do not fully meet the requirements of different atomization modes.
[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need for new technical solutions to address one or more of these technical problems.
[0007] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Accordingly, the present invention discloses a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, an aerosol delivery system, and a control method for an aerosol delivery system to solve the prior technical problem that a prior heater assembly cannot fully satisfy the needs of different atomization modes.
[0008] A first aspect of one embodiment of the present invention discloses a heating assembly for an aerosol providing system having at least two atomization modes, wherein the heating assembly comprises: at least two heater assemblies, each heater assembly corresponding to an atomization mode and configured to heat an aerosol generating material within the system to generate an aerosol in each atomization mode; and heater assemblies corresponding to different atomization modes obtain different energy densities.
[0009] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol supply system, each heater assembly comprises a heating body for generating an aerosol and an extension connected to the heating body; the resistance of the heating body forms the effective heating resistance of the heater assembly, the area occupied by the heating body serves as the effective heating area of the heater assembly, and the surface area of the resistance of the heating body forms the effective atomization surface area of the heater assembly; and the energy density obtained by the heating body is taken as the energy density obtained by the heater assembly.
[0010] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the energy density of the heater assembly comprises at least one of the resistance parameters, atomization surface area, and heating area parameters of the heater assembly:
[0011] i) Different resistance parameters of the heater assembly — the different resistance parameters include at least one of the following different parameters: different resistance of the heater assembly; different effective heating resistance; and different effective heating resistance ratios —;
[0012] ii) Different atomizing surface areas of the heater assembly — the different atomizing surface areas include at least one of the following different parameters: different effective atomizing surface areas; different cross-sectional areas of the heating body; and different unit surface areas of the heating body —;
[0013] iii) Different heating area parameters of the heater assembly — The different heating area parameters include at least one of the following different parameters: different heating areas occupied by the heater assembly; different effective heating areas; and different effective heating area ratios —;
[0014] By composing it, it is made differently.
[0015] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, each heater assembly comprises a heating wire, and different effective atomizing surface areas of the heater assembly comprise different cross-sectional areas and / or lengths of the heating wire.
[0016] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, each heater assembly comprises a heating wire, and the different resistances of the heater assemblies include different lengths and / or resistivityes and / or cross-sectional areas of the heating wire.
[0017] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, when the resistance of the heater assembly matches, the heater assembly includes three first parameters: an effective heating resistance ratio, an effective atomizing surface area, and an effective heating area.
[0018] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a higher effective heating resistance ratio than a heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0019] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller effective atomizing surface area than a heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0020] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller effective heating area than a heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0021] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the heating body of the heater assembly comprises a heating wire constituting an effective heating resistance; the heater assembly comprises four second parameters: the cross-sectional area of the heating wire of the heating body, the length of the heating wire of the heating body, the resistivity of the heating body, and the resistivity of the extended portion; and when the resistance of the heater assembly matches, different effective heating resistance ratios of the heater assembly are achieved by configuring at least one of the second parameters differently.
[0022] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the heating wire of the heating body of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller cross-sectional area than the heating wire of the heating body of the heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0023] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the heating wire of the heating body of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a longer length than the heating wire of the heating body of the heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0024] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the heating body of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a higher resistivity than the heating body of the heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0025] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, an extension of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a lower resistivity than an extension of the heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0026] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the material of the extension portion of the heater assembly having a higher energy density is nickel; and / or the material of the heating body of the heater assembly having a higher energy density comprises at least one of iron-chromium-aluminum, nickel-chromium, stainless steel, and titanium alloy.
[0027] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the heater assembly comprises a heating body heating wire constituting an effective heating resistance, and the heater assembly comprises two third parameters: the cross-sectional area and the length of the heating body heating wire; different effective atomizing surface areas of the heater assembly are achieved by configuring at least one of the third parameters differently.
[0028] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the heating wire of the heating body of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller cross-sectional area than the heating wire of the heating body of the heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0029] In one embodiment of a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, the heating wire of the heating body of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a shorter length than the heating wire of the heating body of the heater assembly having a lower energy density.
[0030] A second aspect of one embodiment of the present invention discloses an aerosol providing system, wherein the system has at least two atomization modes, and the system comprises: a housing configured to receive an aerosol generating material; at least two heater assemblies — each heater assembly corresponding to an atomization mode and configured to heat the aerosol generating material within the system to generate an aerosol in an individual atomization mode, and the two heater assemblies corresponding to different atomization modes have different energy densities —; a controller configured to select at least one of the heater assemblies for heating based on a received atomization mode selection command; and a power supply configured to supply power to the heater assemblies under the control of the controller.
[0031] In one embodiment of an aerosol delivery system, the system has at least two atomization modes, and the system comprises at least two power settings for the at least two atomization modes; a heater assembly having a higher energy density corresponds to a higher power setting, and a heater assembly having a lower energy density corresponds to a lower power setting; a controller is configured to select a heater assembly having a higher energy density for heating when it receives a selection command for a higher power setting; and a controller is configured to select a heater assembly having a lower energy density for heating when it receives a selection command for a lower power setting.
[0032] In one embodiment of an aerosol delivery system, the system includes three power settings, the highest power setting being the sum of the other two settings; and the controller is configured to select both heater assemblies for heating when it receives a selection command for the highest power setting.
[0033] In one embodiment of an aerosol delivery system, atomization mode selection command is generated based on user input or signals monitored by sensors.
[0034] In one embodiment of the aerosol delivery system, the heating assembly is as described in the first aspect.
[0035] A third aspect of one embodiment discloses an aerosol providing system, wherein the system has at least two atomization modes, and the at least two atomization modes correspond to at least two power settings; and the system includes a heating assembly as described in the first aspect; and a heater assembly having a higher energy density corresponds to a higher power setting, and a heater assembly having a lower energy density corresponds to a lower power setting.
[0036] A fourth aspect of one embodiment discloses an aerosol providing system, wherein the system has at least two atomization modes; the system includes a heating assembly as described in the first aspect; and heater assemblies having different energy densities have the same power setting.
[0037] In one embodiment of an aerosol delivery system as described in the second, third, and / or fourth aspects, the system comprises: a housing having a receiving chamber; and an aerosol generating material contained within the receiving chamber.
[0038] A fifth aspect of one embodiment discloses a control method for an aerosol delivery system comprising at least two heater assemblies corresponding to different atomization modes; the method comprises: receiving an atomization mode selection command and selecting at least one of the corresponding heater assemblies for heating based on the command; and the different heater assemblies correspond to different energy densities.
[0039] In one embodiment of a control method for an aerosol delivery system, the system referred to is an aerosol delivery system provided in a second, third, and / or fourth aspect as described above.
[0040] In this embodiment of the invention, at least two heater assemblies are installed, and each heater assembly can achieve different energy densities when power is supplied. This design corresponds to various atomization modes of the system, ensuring optimal vaporization performance across different modes and improving the user experience. Heater assemblies having different energy densities correspond to distinct atomization modes. This also enables better matching between the heater assemblies, the e-liquid, and the power supply, thereby preventing problems such as carbon accumulation and damage caused by excessive power, and thus improving the lifespan of the system.
[0041] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be given in part in the following description, become apparent from the following description, or be learned through the practice of the present invention. Brief explanation of the drawing
[0042] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the disclosed content of the present invention will be more easily understood. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that these drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Furthermore, similar numbers in the drawings are used to indicate similar components, among which: FIG. 1 illustrates a three-dimensional structural diagram of a heater assembly for an aerosol providing system provided by an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2 to 4 are schematic diagrams of a heater assembly structure for an aerosol providing system provided by an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol delivery system provided by an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a control method for an aerosol delivery system provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Description of drawing labels: 300: Aerosol delivery system; 341: Heater assembly; 3410: Heating body; 3412, 3413: Extension parts; 34121, 34131: Fixing parts; 34122, 34132: Pins; 342: Power supply; 343: Controller. Specific details for implementing the invention
[0043] Some embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely for illustrating the technical principles of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0044] As used herein, the term “delivery system” is intended to encompass systems that deliver at least one substance to a user upon use, and includes the following:
[0045] Combustible aerosol delivery systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipe, roll-your-own, or make-your-own cigarettes (regardless of whether they are based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, inflated tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes, or other smokeable materials);
[0046] Non-combustible aerosol providing systems that release compounds from aerosol generating materials without burning the aerosol generating materials, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems that generate aerosols using a combination of aerosol generating materials; and
[0047] Aerosol-free delivery systems that deliver at least one substance to a user by means of the mouth, nose, transdermis, or other ways without forming an aerosol, such as products including lozenges, gums, patches, inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco including snus or wet snuff, wherein at least one substance may or may not include nicotine.
[0048] According to the present disclosure, a "flammable" aerosol delivery system is a system in which a constituent aerosol generating material of the aerosol delivery system (or its component) is combusted or burned during use to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.
[0049] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol providing system selected from the group consisting of, for example, cigarettes, cigarillos, and cigars.
[0050] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to a component for use in a combustible aerosol delivery system, such as a filter, filter rod, filter segment, tobacco rod, spill, an aerosol-modifying agent release component, such as a capsule, thread, or bead, or a paper, such as a plug wrap, tipping paper, or cigarette paper.
[0051] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol delivery system is a system in which the constituent aerosol generating material of the aerosol delivery system (or its component) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.
[0052] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, such as a power-supplied non-flammable aerosol delivery system.
[0053] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, which is also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system, but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.
[0054] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, which is also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a cigarette heating system.
[0055] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol providing system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol generating materials, and one or more of the aerosol generating materials may be heated. Each of the aerosol generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.
[0056] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol delivery system may include a non-flammable aerosol delivery device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.
[0057] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising an aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-flammable aerosol-providing devices. These consumables are referred to as products throughout the disclosure.
[0058] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol providing system, such as a non-flammable aerosol providing device of a non-flammable aerosol providing system, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electric power source or a heating power source. In some embodiments, the heating power source comprises a carbon substrate, and the carbon substrate may be energized to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or to a heat transfer material adjacent to the heating power source.
[0059] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.
[0060] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol providing device may include an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material delivery component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.
[0061] In some embodiments, the delivery system is an aerosol-free delivery system that delivers at least one substance to a user by means of the mouth, nose, transdermal or other means without forming an aerosol, and includes (but is not limited to) oral products such as lozenges, gums, patches, inhalable powders, and oral tobacco such as snus or wet snuff, and at least one substance may or may not include nicotine.
[0062] In some embodiments, the material to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material or a material not intended to be aerosolized. Where appropriate, either material may comprise one or more active components, one or more flavors, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.
[0063] In some embodiments, the material to be delivered comprises an active substance. As used herein, the active substance may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may be selected from, for example, nutraceuticals, nootropics, and psychoactives. The active substance may occur naturally or be obtained synthetically. The active substance may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or their constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may include one or more constituents, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or other plants.
[0064] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.
[0065] As noted in the present specification, the active substance may include one or more constituents, derivatives, or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.
[0066] As noted herein, the active substance may comprise or be derived from one or more plants or their constituents, derivatives, or extracts. As used herein, the term “plant” includes any material derived from plants, including but not limited to extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husks, shells, etc. Alternatively, the material may comprise an active compound naturally present in the plant or is obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, pieces, strips, sheets, etc.
[0067] Example plants include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay leaf, licorice, matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green or black tea, thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed, basil, bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, beefsteak plant, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, and carbi. Verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. Mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: Mentha Arventis, Mentha cv, Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata cv, Mentha piperita cv, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Mentha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata cv, and Mentha suaveolens.
[0068] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant is tobacco. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, and hemp.
[0069] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant is selected from rooibos and fennel.
[0070] In some embodiments, the material to be delivered includes a flavor. As used herein, the terms “flavor” and “flavorant” refer to materials that may be used to produce a desired taste, aroma, or other somatosensory sensation in products for adult consumers, where permitted by local regulations. These are naturally occurring flavoring ingredients, plants, plant extracts, synthetically obtained ingredients, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white magnolia leaves, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruits, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, Scotch, whisky, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, kart, Nasoir, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, bell pepper, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, bay leaf, mate, orange peel, rose, tea such as green or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, carbi, Verbena, Tarragon,They may include limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plants, or breath fresheners. These may be imitation, synthetic, or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, e.g., liquids such as oils, solids such as powders, or gases.
[0071] In some embodiments, the flavor comprises menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises flavor components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits, and / or red berry. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises flavor components extracted from cannabis.
[0072] In some embodiments, the flavor may comprise a sensate intended to achieve a generally chemically induced somatosensory sensation perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve) in addition to or instead of the aroma or gustatory nerves, and these may comprise formulations that provide heating, cooling, tingling, or numbing effects. A suitable heating agent may be vanillyl ethyl ether (but is not limited thereto), and a suitable coolant may be eucoliptol, WS-3 (but is not limited thereto).
[0073] An aerosol-generating material is a material capable of generating an aerosol when, for example, heated, irradiated, or supplied with energy in any other way. An aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, for example, which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavoring agents. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an "amorphous solid," which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material capable of holding some fluid, such as a liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% of amorphous solid up to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of amorphous solid.
[0074] The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and / or flavors, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.
[0075] The aerosol-forming material may comprise one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material may comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.
[0076] One or more other functional materials may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants.
[0077] The material may be present on or within a support to form a substrate. The support may be, for example, paper, card, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, reconstructed material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or metal alloy, or may include these. In some embodiments, the support includes a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or both sides of the material.
[0078] A consumable is an article comprising or composed of an aerosol-generating material and is intended to be consumed in whole or in part during use by a user. The consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material delivery component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. The consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol upon use. The heater may include, for example, a flammable material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.
[0079] A susceptor is a material capable of being heated by the penetration of a changing magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. Since the susceptor may be an electrically conductive material, the penetration of a changing magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, and thus the penetration of a changing magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. Since the susceptor may be both electrically conductive and magnetic, the susceptor may be heated by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a changing magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.
[0080] An aerosol modifier is a substance typically located downstream of the aerosol generation region and is configured to modify the generated aerosol by, for example, changing the taste, flavor, acidity, or other properties of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier may be provided to an aerosol modifier release component operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier. The aerosol modifier may be, for example, an additive or an adsorbent. The aerosol modifier may include, for example, one or more of a flavoring agent, a coloring agent, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol modifier may be, for example, a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol modifier may be in the form of a powder, thread, or granule. The aerosol modifier may not have a filter material.
[0081] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to expose the aerosol generating material to thermal energy to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to expose the aerosol generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.
[0082] This disclosure relates to aerosol delivery systems (which may also be referred to as vapor delivery systems), such as nebulizers or e-cigarettes. Throughout the following description, the terms "e-cigarette" or "electronic cigarette" may be used from time to time, but it will be understood that these terms may be used interchangeably with aerosol delivery systems / devices and electronic aerosol delivery systems / devices. Furthermore, as is common in the art, the terms "aerosol" and "vapor," and related terms such as "vaporize," "volatilize," and "aerosolize," may generally be used interchangeably.
[0083] Aerosol delivery systems (e-cigarettes) often, but not always, comprise a modular assembly including a reusable device part and a replaceable (disposable / consumable) cartridge part. Often, the replaceable cartridge part will include aerosol-generating material and a vaporizer (these may collectively be referred to as a "cartomizer"), and the reusable device part will include a power supply (e.g., a rechargeable power source) and control circuitry. It will be understood that these different parts may include additional elements depending on their function. For example, the reusable device part will often include a user interface to accept user input and display operating status characteristics, and the replaceable cartridge device part will include a temperature sensor to help control the temperature in some cases. The cartridges are electrically and mechanically coupled to a control unit for use, using, for example, screw threads, bayonets, or magnetic couplings with appropriately arranged electrical contacts. When the aerosol generating material in the cartridge is depleted, or when the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge with a different aerosol generating material, the cartridge can be removed from the reusable part and a replacement cartridge can be attached in its place. Systems and devices conforming to this type of two-part modular configuration may generally be referred to as two-part systems / devices.
[0084] It is common for electronic cigarettes to generally have an elongated shape. To provide a specific example, certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be considered to include this type of generally elongated two-part system employing disposable cartridges. However, it will be understood that the basic principles described herein may be equally applied to different configurations, e.g., single-part systems or modular systems comprising more than two parts, rechargeable devices, and single-use disposables, as well as other overall shapes, e.g., so-called box-mode high-performance devices that typically have a more boxy shape. More generally, certain embodiments of the present disclosure are based on aerosol delivery systems operably configured to provide functionality according to the principles described herein, and it will be understood that structural aspects of the systems configured to provide functionality according to the specific embodiments of the present disclosure are of no primary importance.
[0085] As described in the background art, current aerosol delivery systems are equipped with heater assemblies that satisfy only the requirements of a single atomization mode. The present embodiment of the invention innovatively proposes using multiple heater assemblies capable of achieving different energy densities when power is supplied to accommodate various atomization modes of the system. These modes may include different e-liquids that require different energy levels due to carbon accumulation, reach an optimal vaporization state, or cater to different user preferences regarding aerosol density. Matching appropriate energy densities with different atomization modes enables optimal vaporization in any mode, thereby enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, using heater assemblies with various energy densities ensures better compatibility with different e-liquids and power supply levels, preventing problems such as carbon accumulation or damage caused by excessive power, and thereby extending the lifespan of the system. The heating assembly may include at least two heater assemblies.
[0086] The following sections will describe specific embodiments of the present invention in detail, focusing on the heater assemblies of the aerosol delivery system and the structure of the aerosol delivery system itself. These embodiments will provide a comprehensive understanding of the design and function of the present invention.
[0087] Embodiment 1
[0088] FIG. 1 is a three-dimensional structure of an exemplary heater assembly within an aerosol supply system of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the heater assembly (341) comprises a heating body (3410) for generating an aerosol and extension parts (3412 and 3413) connected to the heating body (3410). The heating body (3410) is designed to heat an aerosol generating material within the system to generate an aerosol. The extension parts (3412 and 3413) are configured to be electrically connected to the power electrodes of the system to supply power to the heating body (3410). The resistance of the heater assembly (341) consists mainly of the heating body (3410) and the extension parts (3412 and 3413). Although the extension parts (3412 and 3413) generate heat when power is supplied, their primary function is electrical connection rather than heating the aerosol generating material. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, the resistance of the extension parts (3412 and 3413) is considered as the ineffective heating resistance of the heater assembly (341), their area as the ineffective heating area, and the energy they generate is considered as the ineffective energy of the heater assembly (341). The heating body (3410) provides the necessary energy to heat the aerosol generating material. In the present embodiment, the resistance of the heating body (3410) is the effective heating resistance of the heater assembly (341), the area enclosed by the heating body (3410) is the effective heating area, the surface area of the resistance of the heating body (3410) is the effective atomization surface area, and the energy density obtained by the heating body (3410) is the energy density obtained by the heater assembly (341).
[0089] In this embodiment of the invention, it is important to note that the energy density of the heater assembly refers to the energy provided to the aerosol-generating material per unit area by the heat generated in the enclosed area formed by the heater assembly. A higher energy density in the heater assembly means that higher temperatures can be achieved in the aerosol-generating material, resulting in more aerosol generation but also potentially more carbon accumulation. The invention can specifically design heater assemblies having appropriate energy densities based on the needs of various vaporization modes. For example, a heater assembly with a lower energy density can be used for e-liquids prone to high carbon accumulation to lower the heating temperature to reduce carbon deposits, or elements with a higher energy density can be used for e-liquids requiring more power for effective atomization.
[0090] The energy density of a component is determined by its accessible power and surface area. In the present invention, the energy density of a heater assembly specifically refers to the energy density of its heating body. In addition to the total power and area of the heater assembly, its energy density is also related to the effective heating resistance, effective atomizing surface area, and effective heating area of the heating body. The magnitude of the power is linked to the supplied power and resistance settings. Accordingly, the energy density of the heater assembly is influenced by the external power supply and its own resistance parameters, atomizing surface area, and heating area parameters. In the present embodiment, changing the energy density of the heater assembly can be achieved by adjusting at least one of the following parameters: external power supply, resistance, atomizing surface area, or heating area.
[0091] In one embodiment of the present invention, different resistance parameters are configured for heater assemblies to achieve various energy densities. These various resistance parameters may include different total resistances and / or different effective heating resistances and / or different effective heating resistance ratios of the heater assemblies. Different resistance parameters may result in corresponding differences in power. When the supplied power and area parameters are the same or reasonably set, varying the resistance parameters can achieve different energy density settings.
[0092] When different resistances are set for the heater assemblies while other factors such as power supply, surface area, and resistance ratio are kept constant, the atomization power obtained by each heater assembly changes. This change in atomization power directly affects the heating body of each element, resulting in different energy densities in the heater assemblies. This means that each element can provide various levels of heat to the aerosol-generating material depending on its resistance setting.
[0093] Setting different effective heating resistances to heater assemblies while keeping the power supply, total heater resistance, and the area of each part constant results in the same atomization power for the heater assemblies but different atomization powers for the heating body parts. This leads to variations in the energy density of the heater assemblies. It is understood that different energy densities can be achieved under different conditions. For example, a heater assembly having a higher effective heating resistance and a smaller effective atomization surface area will have a greater energy density compared to one having a lower effective heating resistance and a larger effective atomization surface area, assuming other conditions are equal.
[0094] By setting different effective heating resistance ratios while keeping the power supply, total resistance, and the area of the individual parts constant, the heater assembly will achieve the same total atomization power. However, the atomization power within the heating body will vary, leading to variations in the energy density of these body parts. This approach makes it possible to fine-tune the performance of the heater assembly to meet different atomization requirements.
[0095] In one embodiment of the present invention, the heater assembly includes a heating wire. Different resistance parameters of the heater assembly can be achieved through various means, such as using heating wires of different lengths, different resistivityes, or different cross-sectional areas.
[0096] Assuming other conditions are equal, the resistance of a heating wire increases with its length, decreases with its cross-sectional area, or increases with its resistivity. In this embodiment of the invention, at least one of these parameters may be adjusted to set different resistance parameters for different heater assemblies.
[0097] In one embodiment of the present invention, the heating body of a heater assembly comprises a heating wire that constitutes an effective heating resistance. The heater assembly encompasses four secondary parameters: the cross-sectional area of the heating body wire, the length of the heating body wire, the resistivity of the heating body, and the resistivity of the extensions. When the total resistance of the heater assembly is consistent, different effective heating resistance ratios are achieved by varying at least one of these secondary parameters.
[0098] In one embodiment, a heater assembly having a higher energy density is designed to have a smaller cross-sectional area for its heating wire compared to a heater assembly having a lower energy density. All other things being equal, a smaller cross-sectional area results in a larger effective heating resistance. This increase in the effective resistance ratio leads to a higher vaporization power, which in turn leads to a higher energy density.
[0099] In one embodiment, a heater assembly having a higher energy density is composed of a heating wire in its heating body that is longer than the heating wire in a heater assembly having a lower energy density. Under the same conditions, the greater length of the heating wire increases the effective heating resistance and its ratio, resulting in higher vaporization power and thereby improving energy density.
[0100] In one embodiment, a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a heating body having a higher resistivity than a heating body of a heater assembly having a lower energy density. Given that other conditions are equal, a higher resistivity in the heating body results in a greater effective heating resistance, thereby increasing the ratio of effective resistance.
[0101] In one embodiment, a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a lower resistivity in its extensions compared to a heater assembly having a lower energy density. Under the same conditions, the lower resistivity in the extensions results in less ineffective heating resistance and thus increases the ratio of effective resistance.
[0102] In one embodiment, a heater assembly having a higher energy density has extensions made of nickel, and / or the heating body is made of materials such as iron-chromium-aluminum, nichrome, stainless steel, or titanium alloy. This composition is intended to achieve a higher resistivity for the heating body and a lower resistivity for the extensions.
[0103] To achieve different resistivityes, one embodiment of the present invention proposes configuring at least a portion of one extension part as a first segment, wherein the resistivity of the first segment is lower than the resistivity of the heating body. The inclusion of the first segment helps to reduce non-effective heating resistance and increase the ratio of effective heating resistance. This configuration not only achieves different energy densities but also reduces non-effective power consumption and thus minimizes energy waste.
[0104] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4, various configurations for the first segment are provided. In these drawings, the extension portion (3412) includes a fixed portion (34121) and a pin (34122); similarly, the extension portion (3413) includes a fixed portion (34131) and a pin (34132). In this embodiment of the invention, it may be selected to form a part or the whole of one extension portion, or parts or the whole of both extension portions, as the first segment. The first segment is represented in the drawings as thinner sections.
[0105] In one embodiment of the present invention, only the pin of one extension part is formed as the first segment. In this configuration, the fixed part of the extension part and the entire other extension part are not considered as part of the first segment.
[0106] As illustrated in FIG. 1, only the pin (34122) of the extension portion (3412) is formed as the first segment. The fixed portion (34121) and the other extension portion (3413) of the extension portion (3412) are designed to be integrated with the heating body (3410) to provide better support to prevent deformation of the mesh heating body (3410). In this setup, the material of the fixed portion (34121) within the extension portion (3412) is different from the material of the pin (34122), making it difficult to form them as a single unit. The pin (34122), which is the first segment, can be connected to the fixed portion (34121) using methods such as snap-fitting, press-fitting, or welding.
[0107] In one embodiment where only the pin of the extension part forms the first segment and the fixed part does not, their cross-sectional shapes may differ. For example, the fixed part may have a rectangular cross-section, while the first segment may be circular. The cross-sectional shape of the fixed part is designed to facilitate integration with the heating body and provide better support.
[0108] In one embodiment of the present invention, one of the extension parts of a heater assembly, including both a pin and a fixed part, forms a first segment. The other extension part is not part of the first segment. As shown in FIG. 2, the fixed part (34121) and the pin (34122) of one extension part (341) of the heater assembly (341) together form the first segment. The other extension part (3413) is not included in the first segment. The fixed part and the pin forming the first segment can be formed as a single unit, thereby eliminating the need for separate connections. The fixed part can then be connected to the heating body (3410) using methods such as snap fitting, press fitting, or welding. The extension part that does not form the first segment can be integrated with the heating body to provide better support and prevent deformation of the mesh-type heating body.
[0109] In the heater assembly, the lengths of the fins at different extensions may vary. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the heater assembly (341) is flat, and at least one of the two extensions (3412, 3413) is in a semi-encircling shape and is positioned around the periphery of the heating body (3410). Preferably, both extensions (3412, 3413) are in a semi-encircling shape and are set around the periphery of the heating body to define an encircling space for the heating body (3410). The semi-encircling shape is depicted as an L-shape in FIG. 1, and the first segment forms part of this semi-encircling structure.
[0110] In the aforementioned semi-encircling structure, the length of the pin (34122) within the extension portion (3412) is greater than the length of the pin (34132) within the extension portion (3413). In this embodiment of the invention, it is preferable to select the pin (34122) of the extension portion (3412), or both the pin (34122) of the extension portion (3412) and the fixed portion (34121), to form the first segment. This configuration aims to effectively reduce non-effective resistance, thereby increasing the reduction in non-effective power consumption. Similarly, in the non-encircling embodiments of the invention, longer pins may be selected to form the first segment.
[0111] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pins of both extension portions of the heater assembly are formed as a first segment. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the pin (34122) of the extension portion (3412) and the pin (34132) of the extension portion (3413) of the heater assembly (341) constitute the first segment. The fixed portions (34121 and 34131) of the extension portions (3412 and 3413) are not part of the first segment, respectively. This configuration allows the fixed portions of both extension portions to be integrated with the heating body, thereby providing better support from different directions and positions, and thus preventing deformation of the mesh heating body. In alternative embodiments, the fixed portion of one of the extension portions may also form part of the first segment.
[0112] In one embodiment of the present invention, both the pins and fixed parts of two extension sections of a heater assembly form a first segment. As shown in FIG. 4, the pin (34122) and fixed part (34121) of the extension section (3412), and the pin (34132) and fixed part (34131) of the extension section (3413) of the heater assembly (341) all form a first segment. This configuration enables a significant reduction in non-effective resistance, thereby lowering non-effective power consumption.
[0113] It is important to note that when the heating body is mesh-type, the extension parts also serve as supports. In setting up the first segment, the present invention considers balancing the reduction of ineffective resistance with the support function. For example, configuring only a portion of the extension parts as the first segment allows the remaining parts to maintain good support. Additionally, other methods may be employed to enhance support while maximizing the first segment setup, with the goal of reducing ineffective resistance as much as possible and minimizing power waste.
[0114] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first segment is made of a material having a uniform resistivity, ensuring that each part of the first segment has the same resistance. This uniformity simplifies the manufacturing process of the first segment.
[0115] In an alternative embodiment, the first segment may be composed of at least two sections having various resistivitys, each of which is lower than the resistivity of the heating body.
[0116] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of the first section is circular or rectangular.
[0117] In one embodiment of the present invention, the atomizing surface area of the heater assembly is configured differently to achieve different energy density settings. Differences in the atomizing surface area of the heater assembly include at least one of the following parameters being different: different effective atomizing surface areas and / or different cross-sectional areas of the heater assembly body and / or different unit surface areas of the heater assembly body.
[0118] When different effective atomizing surface areas are set, under different identical conditions (with the same atomizing power obtained by the heater assembly), the different effective atomizing surface areas correspond to different energy densities. A smaller effective atomizing surface area results in a higher energy density.
[0119] When different cross-sectional areas of the heater assembly are set to achieve different effective atomizing surface areas, under other identical conditions (same length of heater assembly and same atomizing power obtained by the heater assembly), the different cross-sectional areas correspond to different energy densities. A smaller cross-sectional area results in a smaller effective atomizing surface area and a higher energy density.
[0120] In one embodiment of the present invention, the heater assembly comprises a heating wire, and different effective atomizing surface areas of the heater assembly include differences in the cross-sectional area and / or length of the heating wire. Under the same conditions, a larger cross-sectional area and a longer length of the heating wire result in a larger effective atomizing surface area of the heater assembly.
[0121] In one embodiment of the present invention, a heater assembly comprises a heating wire forming an effective heating resistance. Different effective atomizing surface areas of the heater assembly are achieved by configuring at least one of third parameters differently, wherein the third parameters include the cross-sectional area of the heating wire and the length of the heating wire in the heater assembly.
[0122] In one embodiment of the present invention, a heater assembly having a higher energy density may have a smaller cross-sectional area of the heating wire within the heater assembly compared to a heater assembly having a lower energy density. Under other conditions including the same resistance of various parts, the smaller cross-sectional area results in a smaller effective atomization surface area, thereby increasing the energy density.
[0123] In another embodiment of the present invention, a heater assembly having a higher energy density may have a shorter length of heating wire within the heater assembly compared to a heater assembly having a lower energy density. Under other conditions including the same resistance of various parts, the shorter length results in a smaller effective atomizing surface area, thereby reducing the energy density. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the length of the heating wire within the heater assembly can be adjusted by setting a different number of rhombus-shaped mesh holes.
[0124] It should be noted that the configuration of the parameters mentioned above needs to be combined with the equality of other parameters or reasonable adjustments of other parameters to ultimately achieve different energy densities.
[0125] In one embodiment of the present invention, the heating area parameters of the heater assembly are configured differently to achieve different energy density settings. These heating area parameters include differences in the heating area occupied by the heater assembly, differences in the effective heating area, and differences in the ratio of the effective heating area.
[0126] If the heating area of the heater assembly occupied by the heater assembly is set differently, the energy density of the heater assembly changes under the same conditions (while the heater assembly obtains the same atomization power and the same effective heating area ratio). A larger heating area results in lower energy density.
[0127] If the effective heating area of the heater assembly occupied by the heater assembly is set differently, under the same conditions (while the heater assembly obtains the same atomization power), the different effective heating areas correspond to different energy densities. A smaller effective heating area results in a higher energy density.
[0128] When the heater assembly has a mesh structure as shown in FIG. 1, variations in the size of the effective heating area can be achieved by compressing or expanding the size of the central mesh holes.
[0129] In one embodiment of the present invention, the resistances of different heater assemblies are identical. This means that under the same supply power, the atomizing power of the heater assembly is identical. In this case, the energy density can be adjusted by changing parameters of the heater assembly part, such as the atomizing power obtained by the heater assembly and the surface area of the heater assembly. Specifically, the energy density can be set differently by changing at least one of three first parameters: the effective resistance ratio, the effective atomizing surface area, and the effective heating surface area.
[0130] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the resistances of different heater assemblies match, a heater assembly having a higher effective heating resistance ratio has a higher energy density compared to a heater assembly having a lower effective heating resistance ratio. When the resistances of the heater assemblies match, the current passing through the heater assemblies is the same under the same supply power. A higher effective heating resistance ratio means that the heater assembly obtains higher atomization power. When the effective atomization surface area and the effective heating area of the heater assembly are the same, the corresponding energy density of the heater assembly is higher. In alternative embodiments, the effective atomization surface area and the effective heating area of the heater assembly having a higher effective heating resistance ratio may be set smaller than those of the heater assembly having a lower effective heating resistance ratio, or a combination of factors including the effective heating resistance ratio and area may be considered to achieve a higher energy density for the heater assembly having a higher effective heating resistance ratio.
[0131] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the resistances of different heater assemblies are matched, a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller effective atomizing surface area compared to a heater assembly having a lower energy density. When the resistances of the heater assemblies are matched, the atomizing power of the heater assemblies is the same under the same supply power. If the effective heating resistance is set to be the same and the effective heating area is the same, the heater assembly having a smaller effective atomizing surface area has a higher energy density. In alternative embodiments, a heater assembly having a smaller effective atomizing surface area has a higher effective heating resistance than a heater assembly having a larger effective atomizing surface area, and the effective heating area is also smaller. Alternatively, to achieve a higher energy density for a heater assembly having a smaller effective atomizing surface area, a combination of factors including the effective atomizing surface area, the effective heating resistance, and the effective heating area may be considered.
[0132] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the resistances of different heater assemblies match, a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller effective heating area compared to a heater assembly having a lower energy density. When the resistances of the heater assemblies match, this means that under the same supply power, the heater assemblies obtain the same atomization power. If the effective heating resistance is set to be the same and the effective atomization surface area is the same, the heater assembly having a smaller effective heating area has a higher energy density. In alternative embodiments, a heater assembly having a smaller effective heating area has a higher effective heating resistance than a heater assembly having a larger effective heating area, and the effective atomization surface area is also smaller. Alternatively, to achieve a higher energy density for a heater assembly having a smaller effective heating area, a combination of factors including the effective heating area, effective heating resistance, and effective atomization surface area may be considered.
[0133] In one embodiment of the present invention, settings that increase energy density may be referred to as advantageous settings, such as reducing the effective atomizing surface area or increasing the effective heating resistance ratio. Settings that decrease energy density may be referred to as disadvantageous settings, such as increasing the effective atomizing surface area or increasing the ratio of ineffective heating resistance. To achieve different energy densities, in embodiments of the present invention, one heater assembly may be exposed to one or more advantageous settings, while another heater assembly may be exposed to one or more disadvantageous settings. In alternative embodiments, a combination of advantageous and disadvantageous settings may be applied to a heater assembly, provided that the final integrated design results in different energy densities for different heater assemblies.
[0134] In the above embodiments of the present invention, by configuring the resistance parameters, atomization surface area parameters, and heating surface area parameters of the heater assembly, it is possible to provide different energy density configurations for the heater assembly. This allows for compatibility with different atomization modes of the system, thereby achieving optimal atomization states under different atomization modes and improving the user experience. Furthermore, through the optimal matching of different energy densities and atomization modes, problems such as carbon accumulation and damage caused by mismatched power supply are reduced, resulting in an extended system lifespan.
[0135] Embodiment 2
[0136] Based on the heater assembly provided in Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2 of the present invention introduces an aerosol providing system. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the aerosol providing system (300) features at least two atomization modes and accommodates an aerosol generating material.
[0137] The aerosol supply system (300) comprises at least two heater assemblies (341), each heater assembly (341) is designed to correspond to an atomization mode and to heat an aerosol generating material within the system (300) to generate an aerosol. These heater assemblies (341) corresponding to different atomization modes have various energy densities. At least two heater assemblies (341) are included in a heating assembly.
[0138] The controller (343) is configured to select at least one of the heater assemblies (341) for heating based on a received atomization mode selection command; for example, issuing a first atomization mode command to one heater assembly (341) and a second atomization mode command to another heater assembly.
[0139] The power supply (342) is configured to supply power to the heater assembly (341) under the control of the controller (343). This power supply may be one or more units.
[0140] In one embodiment of the present invention, heater assemblies having different energy densities have the same set power. Despite having the same power, different energy densities can be achieved through settings such as surface area and effective heating resistance.
[0141] In one embodiment of the present invention, heater assemblies having different energy densities have various set power levels. Specifically, at least two atomization modes include at least two power settings; a higher energy density heater assembly corresponds to a higher power setting, and a lower energy density element corresponds to a lower setting.
[0142] The controller is configured to select a high-energy-density heater assembly for heating when it receives a command for a higher power setting. Conversely, when a command for a lower power setting is received, it selects a low-energy-density heater assembly. This configuration ensures that the appropriate heater assembly is activated based on the desired power level, thereby promoting optimal heating and energy efficiency.
[0143] By matching power with energy density, the heater assembly can be optimally paired with power atomization modes. This approach ensures that optimal atomization conditions are achieved, thereby improving atomization performance and extending the lifespan of the heater assembly.
[0144] In another embodiment of the present invention, the system includes three power settings, and the highest setting is the sum of the other two settings. When the controller receives the highest power setting command, it selects both heater assemblies for heating and adds a higher power atomization mode without increasing the number of heater assemblies.
[0145] The heater assemblies may specifically be those disclosed in the first embodiment of the present invention, and for more details, reference may be made to the description provided in that embodiment.
[0146] Embodiment 3
[0147] Embodiment 3 of the present invention discloses a control method for an aerosol delivery system, wherein the system comprises at least two heater assemblies corresponding to different atomization modes; and the method comprises:
[0148] Step S21: Step of receiving a fumigation mode selection command;
[0149] Step S22: Includes the step of selecting at least one of the corresponding heater assemblies for heating based on a command; the different heater assemblies correspond to different energy densities.
[0150] Figure 6 illustrates a flowchart of the steps of this method.
[0151] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system is an aerosol providing system disclosed in Embodiment 2, comprising a plurality of heater assemblies as disclosed in Embodiment 1.
[0152] In one embodiment of the present invention, atomization mode selection command may be generated based on user input or signals monitored by sensors. For example, commands may be received via different buttons or electronic interaction interfaces based on user input, or may be received by detecting different gestures of the user with sensors to generate corresponding atomization mode selection commands.
[0153] Through the heater assemblies and aerosol delivery systems disclosed in various embodiments of the present invention, a setup of heater assemblies having different energy densities can satisfy the system's needs for various atomization modes. This leads to improved atomization conditions and enhances the user experience. Furthermore, this ensures optimal matching of the heater assemblies, e-liquids, and power supply, thereby extending the system's lifespan by preventing problems such as carbon accumulation or damage caused by excessive power.
[0154] In the description of this specification, the reference terms “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “examples,” “specific examples,” or “some examples” mean that specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with an embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the referential expressions of the terms mentioned above do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.
[0155] Furthermore, terms “first,” “second,” etc. are used merely for descriptive purposes and should not be interpreted as implicitly specifying the quantity of technical features indicated, implied, or suggested to be of relative importance. Accordingly, features defined as “first,” “second,” etc. may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In the description of the invention, the term “multiple” means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.
[0156] In the present invention, terms such as “mounting,” “connection,” “connection,” “fixing,” etc., should be understood broadly unless explicitly defined and limited otherwise. For example, a connection may be a fixed connection or a detachable connection, or an integral connection; a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and, unless explicitly defined otherwise, an internal connection between two components or an interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art may understand the specific meanings of these terms in the context of the invention based on the circumstances.
[0157] Although embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the invention. A person skilled in the art may make modifications, substitutions, and changes to the embodiments described above within the scope of the present invention.
Claims
Claim 1 A heating assembly for an aerosol providing system having at least two atomization modes, wherein the heating assembly comprises: at least two heater assemblies, each heater assembly corresponding to a different atomization mode and configured to heat an aerosol generating material within the system to generate an aerosol in the individual atomization mode; and the heater assemblies corresponding to the different atomization modes obtain different energy densities. Claim 2 A heating assembly for an aerosol supply system, wherein each heater assembly comprises a main body for generating an aerosol and an extension connected to the main body; the resistance of the main body forms the effective heating resistance of the heater assembly, the area occupied by the main body serves as the effective heating area of the heater assembly, and the surface area of the resistance of the main body forms the effective atomization surface area of the heater assembly; and the energy density obtained by the main body is taken as the energy density obtained by the heater assembly. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the energy density of each heater assembly is at least one of the resistance parameters, atomization surface area, and heating area parameters of the heater assembly: i) Different resistance parameters of the heater assembly — the different resistance parameters are the following different parameters: Different resistances of the above heater assembly; Different effective heating resistance; Different effective heating resistance ratios Includes at least one of the following ―;ii) Different atomizing surface areas of the heater assembly — the different atomizing surface areas are the following different parameters: Different effective atomizing surface areas; Different cross-sectional areas of the above heating body; Different unit surface areas of the above heating body Includes at least one of the following ―;iii) Different heating area parameters of the above heater assembly — the different heating area parameters are the following different parameters: Different heating areas occupied by the above heater assembly; Different effective heating areas; Different effective heating area ratios A heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, which is differently made by comprising at least one of —; Claim 4 In paragraph 3, each heater assembly comprises a heating wire, and the different effective atomizing surface areas of the heater assembly comprise different cross-sectional areas and / or lengths of the heating wire, a heating assembly for an aerosol providing system. Claim 5 In paragraph 3, each heater assembly comprises a heating wire, and the different resistances of the heater assembly comprise different lengths and / or resistivityes and / or cross-sectional areas of the heating wire, a heating assembly for an aerosol supply system. Claim 6 A heating assembly for an aerosol supply system, wherein, in paragraph 2, when the resistance of the heater assembly is consistent, the heater assembly comprises three first parameters: an effective heating resistance ratio, an effective atomization surface area, and an effective heating area; and different energy densities of the heater assembly are achieved by configuring at least one of the first parameters differently. Claim 7 In paragraph 6, a heating assembly for an aerosol supply system, wherein the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a higher effective heating resistance ratio than the heater assembly having a lower energy density. Claim 8 In paragraph 6, a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, wherein the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller effective atomizing surface area than the heater assembly having a lower energy density. Claim 9 In paragraph 6, a heating assembly for an aerosol delivery system, wherein the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller effective heating area than the heater assembly having a lower energy density. Claim 10 A heating assembly for an aerosol supply system, wherein, in any one of claims 2, 3, or 6, the heating body of each heater assembly comprises a heating body heating wire constituting the effective heating resistance; the heater assembly comprises four second parameters: the cross-sectional area of the heating body heating wire, the length of the heating wire of the heating body heating wire, the resistivity of the heating body, and the resistivity of the extended portion; and when the resistance of the heater assembly matches, different effective heating resistance ratios of the heater assembly are achieved by configuring at least one of the second parameters differently. Claim 11 In paragraph 10, the heating body heating wire of a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller cross-sectional area than the heating body heating wire of a heater assembly having a lower energy density, for a heating assembly for an aerosol supply system. Claim 12 In paragraph 10, the heating body heating wire of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a longer length than the heating body heating wire of the heater assembly having a lower energy density, for a heating assembly for an aerosol supply system. Claim 13 In paragraph 10, the heating body of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a higher resistivity than the heating body of the heater assembly having a lower energy density, for a heating assembly for an aerosol supply system. Claim 14 In paragraph 10, the heating assembly for an aerosol supply system, wherein the extension portion of the heater assembly having a higher energy density has a lower resistivity than the extension portion of the heater assembly having a lower energy density. Claim 15 In claim 14, the material of the extension portion of the heater assembly having a higher energy density is nickel; and / or; the material of the heating body of the heater assembly having a higher energy density comprises at least one of iron-chromium-aluminum, nickel-chromium, stainless steel, and titanium alloy, a heating assembly for an aerosol providing system. Claim 16 A heating assembly for an aerosol providing system, wherein, in any one of claims 2, 3, or 6, each heater assembly comprises a heating body heating wire constituting the effective heating resistance, and the heater assembly comprises two third parameters: the cross-sectional area and the length of the heating body heating wire; and different effective atomizing surface areas of the heater assembly are achieved by configuring at least one of the third parameters differently. Claim 17 In paragraph 16, the heating body heating wire of a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a smaller cross-sectional area than the heating body heating wire of a heater assembly having a lower energy density, for a heating assembly for an aerosol supply system. Claim 18 In paragraph 16, the heating body heating wire of a heater assembly having a higher energy density has a shorter length than the length of the heating body heating wire of a heater assembly having a lower energy density, for a heating assembly for an aerosol supply system. Claim 19 An aerosol providing system having at least two atomization modes, comprising: a housing configured to accommodate an aerosol generating material; at least two heater assemblies — each of which corresponds to an atomization mode and is configured to heat the aerosol generating material within the system to generate an aerosol in an individual atomization mode, wherein the two heater assemblies corresponding to different atomization modes have different energy densities —; a controller configured to select at least one of the heater assemblies for heating based on a received atomization mode selection command; and a power source configured to supply power to the heater assemblies under the control of the controller. Claim 20 An aerosol providing system according to claim 19, wherein the at least two atomization modes include at least two power settings; a heater assembly having a higher energy density corresponds to the higher power setting, and a heater assembly having a lower energy density corresponds to the lower power setting; the controller is configured to select the heater assembly having the higher energy density for heating when it receives a selection command for the higher power setting; and the controller is configured to select the heater assembly having the lower energy density for heating when it receives a selection command for the lower power setting. Claim 21 In paragraph 20, the system comprises three power settings, the highest power setting being the sum of the other two power settings; and the controller is configured to select both heater assemblies for heating when it receives a selection command for the highest power setting, an aerosol providing system. Claim 22 In claim 19, the atomization mode selection command is generated based on user input or signals monitored by sensors, in an aerosol delivery system. Claim 23 In paragraph 19, each heater assembly is an aerosol providing system as described in any one of paragraphs 1 through 18. Claim 24 An aerosol providing system having at least two atomizing modes, wherein the at least two atomizing modes correspond to at least two power settings, and the system comprises a heating assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 18; and a heater assembly having a higher energy density corresponds to a higher power setting, and a heater assembly having a lower energy density corresponds to a lower power setting. Claim 25 An aerosol providing system having at least two atomization modes, wherein the system comprises a heating assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 18; and heater assemblies having different energy densities having the same power setting. Claim 26 A control method for an aerosol delivery system, wherein the system comprises at least two heater assemblies corresponding to different atomization modes; the method comprises: receiving an atomization mode selection command; and selecting at least one of the corresponding heater assemblies for heating based on the command; wherein the different heater assemblies correspond to different energy densities. Claim 27 In paragraph 26, the above system is a control method for an aerosol providing system according to any one of paragraphs 19 to 25.