Aerosol generation device and aerosol generation system

Abstract

Provided in the present application are an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation device comprises: a power source; a receiving cavity, which is used for receiving an aerosol generation product comprising a first heating element; an induction coil, which is connected to the power source and is arranged at least partially around the receiving cavity, wherein the induction coil generates a changing magnetic field when powered on, so as to induce the first heating element to heat the aerosol generation product; and a first electrical contact, which is connected to the power source and is located outside the receiving cavity or avoids the receiving cavity, wherein when an atomizer comprising a second heating element and a liquid matrix is combined with the aerosol generation device, the first electrical contact is configured to output a direct current to the second heating element, and thus the second heating element heats the liquid matrix to generate aerosol. The aerosol generation device can generate a magnetic field by means of an induction coil, so as to induce the heating of an aerosol generation product, and can output a direct current by means of a first electrical contact, so as to supply power to an atomizer to heat and atomize a liquid matrix.

Description

Aerosol generating device and aerosol generating system

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the China Patent Office on July 24, 2023, with application number 202310917370.0 and entitled “Aerosol Generating Device and Aerosol Generating System,” the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of heat-not-burn aerosol generation, and in particular to an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system. Background Art

[0004] Smoking articles (eg, cigarettes, cigars, etc.) burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to replace these tobacco-burning articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion.

[0005] An example of such a product is a heating device, which releases a compound by heating a material rather than burning it. For example, the material can be tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Known heating devices only accept a specific type of tobacco or non-tobacco product and, through an induction coil, generate a magnetic field that induces heat in a receptor, thereby heating the specific type of tobacco or non-tobacco product.

[0006] Application Contents

[0007] One embodiment of the present application provides an aerosol generating device that can selectively be combined with an aerosol generating article or a nebulizer; comprising:

[0008] power supply;

[0009] a receiving chamber for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising a first heating element;

[0010] an induction coil connected to a power source and arranged at least partially around the receiving cavity; the induction coil is configured to generate a changing magnetic field when energized, thereby inducing the first heating element to heat the aerosol-generating article received in the receiving cavity to generate an aerosol;

[0011] The first electrical contact is connected to a power source and is located outside the receiving chamber or away from the receiving chamber; when an atomizer including a second heating element and a liquid matrix is ​​combined with an aerosol generating device, the first electrical contact is configured to output a direct current to the second heating element, thereby causing the second heating element to heat the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol.

[0012] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0013] The first magnetic element is located outside the receiving cavity or away from the receiving cavity and is used to magnetically attract the atomizer so that the atomizer can remain combined with the aerosol generating device.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first magnetic element is at least partially arranged around the first electrical contact; or the first electrical contact at least partially passes through the first magnetic element.

[0015] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0016] proximal and distal ends facing each other in the longitudinal direction;

[0017] The first electrical contacts are arranged linearly along the longitudinal direction and are at least partially exposed at the proximal end.

[0018] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0019] The circuit is configured to control the power supply to output an alternating current to the induction coil in a first power mode to generate a changing magnetic field, and to control the power supply to output a direct current to the second heating element through the first electrical contact in a second power mode.

[0020] In some embodiments, the circuit is configured to control the induction coil to generate a varying magnetic field for a predetermined duration in the first power mode to induce the first heating element to heat the aerosol-generating article according to a predetermined heating curve within a predetermined duration.

[0021] In some embodiments, the circuit is configured to control the output of a direct current through the first electrical contact at a predetermined power in the second power mode, so that the second heating element heats the liquid medium at the predetermined power.

[0022] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0023] Input element, used for user operation to generate input signals;

[0024] The circuit is configured to respond to an input signal from the input element and control the induction coil to generate a changing magnetic field according to a first power mode.

[0025] In some embodiments, the circuitry is configured to prevent the input element from generating an input signal or to be unresponsive to an input signal from the input element when the nebulizer is coupled to the aerosol generating device.

[0026] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0027] an airflow sensor, configured to sense the airflow flowing through the receiving cavity;

[0028] The circuit is configured to respond to the sensing result of the airflow sensor and then control the supply of direct current to the second heating element through the first electrical contact according to the second power mode.

[0029] In some embodiments, the circuit is configured to not respond to the airflow sensor's sensing result or to prevent the airflow sensor from sensing the airflow through the receiving chamber when the aerosol-generating article is received in the receiving chamber.

[0030] In some embodiments, the invention further comprises: a proximal end and a distal end facing each other in the longitudinal direction;

[0031] a recess located at the proximal end; the recess being configured to receive or engage a portion of the nebulizer;

[0032] The first electrical contact is a resilient electrical contact that can be selectively actuated between an extended state and a compressed state and biased to return to the extended state; at least a portion of the first electrical contact extends into the recess; when the atomizer is coupled to the aerosol generating device, the first electrical contact is pressed into the compressed state and a conductive connection is established with the first electrical contact.

[0033] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device is configured to prevent the induction coil from generating a varying magnetic field when the induction coil generates a varying magnetic field, and to prevent the induction coil from generating a varying magnetic field when the induction coil generates a varying magnetic field when the induction coil generates a varying magnetic field.

[0034] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0035] The circuit is configured to determine the presence of an aerosol-generating article in the receiving cavity based on a change in at least one electrical characteristic of the induction coil caused by inserting or removing the aerosol-generating article comprising the first heating element into the receiving cavity.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first electrical contact includes a positive contact and a negative contact insulated from each other;

[0037] The circuit is configured to determine that the atomizer is coupled to the aerosol generating device based on a change in at least one electrical characteristic between the positive contact and the negative contact caused by the atomizer being coupled to the aerosol generating device.

[0038] Yet another embodiment of the present application further provides an aerosol generating system, comprising:

[0039] A nebulizer, used to atomize a liquid matrix to generate an aerosol;

[0040] An aerosol generating device for supplying power to the atomizer; the aerosol generating device comprises a receiving cavity with an open opening, and a first electrical contact located outside the receiving cavity;

[0041] The atomizer includes a main body and an elongated portion extending longitudinally from the main body, wherein a second electrical contact is arranged on the main body; a heating element for heating a liquid matrix is ​​arranged on the elongated portion, and the heating element is conductively connected to the second electrical contact; the elongated portion can be removably received in a receiving cavity through an opening; and when the elongated portion is received in the receiving cavity, the second electrical contact of the main body establishes a conductive connection with the first electrical contact, thereby enabling the aerosol generating device to supply power to the heating element of the atomizer through the first electrical contact.

[0042] Another embodiment of the present application further provides an atomizer, comprising:

[0043] A housing, the housing comprising a main body portion and an elongated portion extending from the main body portion; wherein the main body portion comprises a first side and a second side opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction; and the elongated portion is arranged to extend from the first side away from the second side in a longitudinal direction;

[0044] a liquid storage cavity located inside the main body portion or extending from the main body portion to the elongated portion;

[0045] a heating element disposed within the elongated portion;

[0046] an electrical contact disposed on the first side of the body portion and electrically connected to the heating element for conducting an electric current on the heating element;

[0047] The first side of the main body portion has a surface avoiding the elongated portion, and the electrical contacts are at least partially exposed on the surface.

[0048] The above aerosol generating device can generate a magnetic field through the induction coil to induce heating of the aerosol generating product, and output a direct current through the first electrical contact to power the atomizer to heat the atomized liquid matrix. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] One or more embodiments are exemplarily illustrated by pictures in the corresponding drawings. These exemplifications do not constitute limitations on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are represented as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings do not constitute proportional limitations.

[0050] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device provided in one embodiment;

[0051] FIG2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in FIG1 from one perspective;

[0052] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generating article provided by one embodiment;

[0053] FIG4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating article in FIG3 from one perspective;

[0054] FIG5 is a schematic diagram of an atomizer provided by an embodiment;

[0055] FIG6 is a structural diagram of the atomizer in FIG5 from another perspective;

[0056] FIG7 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the atomizer in FIG5 from one perspective;

[0057] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the aerosol generating system in which the aerosol generating article in FIG3 is received by the aerosol generating device in FIG1 ;

[0058] FIG9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating system in FIG8 from one perspective;

[0059] FIG10 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating system formed by receiving the atomizer in FIG5 into the aerosol generating device in FIG1;

[0060] FIG11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating system in FIG10 from one perspective;

[0061] FIG12 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment;

[0062] FIG13 is a schematic structural diagram of an atomizer according to another embodiment from one perspective;

[0063] FIG14 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the atomizer in FIG13 from one perspective;

[0064] FIG15 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating system in which the atomizer of FIG13 is received by the aerosol generating device of FIG12 ;

[0065] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of some basic components of a circuit according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] In order to facilitate the understanding of the present application, the present application is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods.

[0067] One embodiment of the present application provides an aerosol generating system for generating aerosols. In some implementations, the aerosol generating system may include two or more separate or interchangeable parts that, when combined, form a complete, combined aerosol generating system capable of generating aerosols in response to user operations.

[0068] In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating system includes an aerosol-generating device that can be selectively used in conjunction with at least two different types of consumer products. For example, in some implementations, the aerosol-generating device can be selectively used with either a first type of consumer product or a second type of consumer product to form an aerosol-generating system to generate an aerosol.

[0069] In some implementations, the aerosol generating device is configured so that it can only receive one consumable product at a time; for example, in some implementations, the aerosol generating device can only receive one of the first type of consumable product or the second type of consumable product at a time, but not both.

[0070] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating device may include a detection unit, wherein the detection unit detection system is configured to detect the presence of a first type of consumer product or a second type of consumer product inserted into the aerosol-generating device. Specifically, the detection unit can be used to detect or identify the type of consumer product incorporated into the aerosol-generating device, so that the operation of the aerosol-generating device, in particular the output of heating or power, for example, is optimized to match or adapt to the corresponding first type of consumer product or second type of consumer product. For example, when the detection unit detects that a first type of consumer product is inserted into the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device is controlled to start operating in a first power output mode; and when the detection unit detects that a second type of consumer product is inserted into the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device is controlled to start operating in a second power output mode.

[0071] In some specific optional implementations, the detection unit may include a color sensor to determine the type of the consumable product by detecting the color of the consumable product combined with the aerosol generating device.

[0072] For example, in yet other variations, the aerosol generating device can determine the type of consumer product by detecting the physical properties of electronic components within the consumer product. These physical properties may include, for example, one or more of the resistance, inductance, voltage, capacitance, and magnetism of the electronic components within the consumer product. In this embodiment, the detection element may include a detection function circuit, such as the circuit module described below.

[0073] Alternatively, in some particular implementations, the first type of consumer product or the second type of consumer product each has a different heating element; the aerosol generating device can determine the type of the consumer product by detecting the characteristics of the heating element in the consumer product.

[0074] In some embodiments, the first type of consumer product may include an atomizer that stores a liquid base and vaporizes at least one component of the liquid base to generate an aerosol. In some embodiments, the liquid base may include glycerin, propylene glycol, etc., which can be heated and vaporized to generate an aerosol.

[0075] In some embodiments, the second type of consumer product may comprise a solid aerosol-generating article, which is heated to volatilize or release at least one component of the solid aerosol-generating article to form an aerosol for inhalation. In some embodiments, the solid aerosol-generating article preferably comprises a tobacco-containing material that releases volatile compounds from the substrate upon heating; alternatively, it may comprise a non-tobacco material that is suitable for electrically heated smoking upon heating. In some specific embodiments, the aerosol-generating article preferably comprises a solid substrate that may comprise one or more of powder, granules, shredded strips, ribbons, or flakes of one or more of herb leaves, dried flowers, volatile aroma herbs, tobacco leaves, homogenized tobacco, and expanded tobacco; alternatively, the solid substrate may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile aroma compounds that are released upon heating.

[0076] FIG1 and FIG2 are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating device 200 according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the aerosol generating device 200 includes:

[0077] The proximal end 2110 and the distal end 2120 are longitudinally opposed; in use, the proximal end 2110 is the end for receiving a consumer product such as the cartomizer 100 or the aerosol-generating article 300 .

[0078] As shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the aerosol generating device 200 further includes:

[0079] The receiving cavity 270 is longitudinally extended and disposed adjacent to the proximal end 2110 and extending longitudinally along the aerosol-generating device 200. The receiving cavity 270 has an opening located longitudinally at the proximal end 2110. In use, a consumer product, such as an aerosol-generating article 300, can be received into or removed from the receiving cavity 270 through the opening. The receiving cavity 270 has one or more ridges 273 disposed at the opening, spaced apart along the circumference of the receiving cavity 270. When the aerosol-generating article 300 is received in the receiving cavity 270, the ridges 273 radially clamp the aerosol-generating article 300, thereby retaining the aerosol-generating article in the receiving cavity 270.

[0080] The nebulizer 100 can be detachably coupled to the proximal end 2110 of the aerosol generating device 200 .

[0081] As shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the aerosol generating device 200 further includes:

[0082] An input element 201 for user operation is provided to generate an input signal; the aerosol-generating device then controls the heating of the aerosol-generating article 300 according to the user input signal. In some embodiments, the input element 201 is selected from a mechanical button, a membrane button, a mechanical switch, a rotary encoder, a dial, a knob, a capacitive touch button, a resistive touch button, a joystick, a slider, a trigger button, a touch screen, and a magnetic switch.

[0083] As shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , a rechargeable power source 210 is used to output power; and the power source 210 is arranged near the distal end 2120;

[0084] The circuit board 220 includes, for example, a PCB or FPC board. The circuit board 220 integrates circuitry for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device 200, particularly the power output by the power supply 210. In Figures 1 and 2, the circuit board 220 is arranged to extend longitudinally along the aerosol generating device 200.

[0085] The bracket 240 is arranged along the longitudinal extension of the aerosol generating device 200; and the bracket 240 is located between the power supply 210 and the circuit board 220; the bracket 240 is used to at least partially accommodate and retain the power supply 210; and the circuit board 220 is fastened to the bracket 240 by a fastening component such as a screw, thereby being supported and retained by the bracket 240.

[0086] 1 and 2 , the input element 201 is electrically connected to the circuit board 220 , thereby enabling the circuit to receive input signals generated by a user operating the input element 201 , thereby controlling the heated aerosol-generating article 300 .

[0087] As shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the aerosol generating device 200 is further provided with:

[0088] The airflow sensor 250 is used to sense the airflow generated by the user inhaling the nebulizer 100 when the nebulizer 100 is combined with the proximal end 2110 of the aerosol generating device 200. The circuit board 220 controls the power supply to the nebulizer 100 based on the sensing result of the airflow sensor 250, so that the nebulizer 100 atomizes the liquid liquid matrix to generate an aerosol.

[0089] In some implementations, the aerosol generating device 200 generates a changing magnetic field through the receiving cavity 270 to induce heating of the consumer product. Specifically, the consumer product may be provided with an induction heating element. When the consumer product is received in the receiving cavity 270, the changing magnetic field can penetrate the consumer product, causing it to generate heat and thereby generate an aerosol. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device 200 includes:

[0090] The coil support 230 surrounds and defines the receiving cavity 270; the coil support 230 is arranged near the proximal end 2110;

[0091] The induction coil 260 is arranged around the coil support 230 ; and the induction coil 260 is operably electrically connected to the circuit board 220 , so as to generate a changing magnetic field in the receiving cavity 270 when an alternating current provided by the circuit board 220 flows through the induction coil 260 .

[0092] Specifically, the circuit board 220 includes a capacitor, which forms an LC resonant circuit with the induction coil 260. Furthermore, the circuit board 220 drives the LC resonant circuit to oscillate at a predetermined frequency, thereby generating an alternating current flowing through the induction coil 260. This in turn causes the induction coil 260 to generate a varying magnetic field that can penetrate the receiving cavity 270. In some implementations, the frequency of the alternating current supplied to the induction coil 260 by the circuit board 220 is between 80 kHz and 2000 kHz.

[0093] In some embodiments, the induction coil 260 has approximately 5 to 15 turns; and the induction coil 260 has an axial length of approximately 5 mm to 15 mm.

[0094] As shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the aerosol generating device 200 further includes:

[0095] The air inlet 202 is arranged on the outer surface of the housing of the aerosol generating device 200 for allowing air to enter during inhalation; the air inlet 202 is arranged near the proximal end 2110 .

[0096] As shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the inner bottom wall of the receiving cavity 270 is further provided with:

[0097] The first communication port 233 is in airflow communication with the air inlet 202 through the air inlet passage 205 ; thus, during suction, the outside air entering through the air inlet 202 enters the receiving chamber 270 through the first communication port 233 ;

[0098] The second communication port 234 is in airflow communication with the airflow sensor 250 through the sensing channel 251 ; thus, during inhalation, the airflow sensor 250 can sense the airflow when the user inhales through the sensing channel 251 and the second communication port 234 to determine the user's inhalation action.

[0099] According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the air inlet channel 205 provides a flow path for air to flow from the air inlet 202 into the receiving cavity 270 , specifically including:

[0100] a first channel portion 203 extending from the air inlet 202 toward the distal end 2120;

[0101] The second channel portion 204 extends radially from the first channel portion 203 to the first communication opening 233 of the receiving cavity 270. In the embodiment shown in FIG2, the air inlet channel 205 is defined by an inner housing member located within the aerosol generating device 200.

[0102] According to the embodiment shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the aerosol generating device 200 further includes:

[0103] an end member 2113 adjacent to and defining the proximal end 2110 of the housing of the aerosol generating device 200;

[0104] A groove 2111 is located on the surface of the proximal end 2110; the groove 2111 is surrounded and defined by the end element 2113; and when at least a portion of the nebulizer 100 is received in the receiving chamber 270, the nebulizer 100 is at least partially accommodated or retained in the groove 2111 defined by the end element 2113, and the nebulizer 100 fits in place with the end element 2113, thereby making the nebulizer 100 substantially airtight at the proximal end 2110 and the aerosol generating device 200, thereby preventing external air from passing between them and entering the receiving chamber 270 during inhalation; and allowing external air to enter the receiving chamber 270 only from the air inlet 202. The end element 2113 can be made of a rigid polymer plastic; or in some other embodiments, the end element 2113 can be made of a flexible silicone, etc., which is beneficial for promoting airtightness with the nebulizer 100.

[0105] In the embodiment shown in FIG2 , the end element 2113 is assembled with other components of the aerosol-generating device 200 to define the housing of the aerosol-generating device 200. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the end element 2113 is integrally molded with the housing of the aerosol-generating device 200, or the end element 2113 is part of the housing of the aerosol-generating device 200.

[0106] A latching protrusion 2112 is also arranged on the inner side wall of the groove 2111 defined by the end element 2113 for connecting with the latching groove 114 on the atomizer 100. When the atomizer 100 is at least partially engaged with the groove 2111, the connection between the latching protrusion 2112 and the latching groove 114 prevents the atomizer 100 from loosening.

[0107] As shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the aerosol generating device 200 is further provided with:

[0108] The first magnetic element 280 is arranged adjacent to the proximal end 2110; accordingly, a magnetic second electrical contact 13 is arranged on the nebulizer 100; when the nebulizer 100 is received in the receiving cavity 270 and abuts against the proximal end 2110, the nebulizer 100 is stably received in the receiving cavity 270 through magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element 280 and the magnetic second electrical contact 13.

[0109] As shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the aerosol generating device 200 is further provided with:

[0110] The first electrical contact 290 is located outside the receiving cavity 270 and at least partially extends or is exposed within the recess 2111 defined by the end element 2113. Furthermore, the first electrical contact 290 is disposed throughout the annular magnetic element 280. When the nebulizer 100 is coupled to the proximal end 2110 of the aerosol generating device 200, the first electrical contact 290 abuts against the second electrical contact 13 on the nebulizer 100 to establish a conductive connection, thereby enabling the aerosol generating device 200 to provide power to the nebulizer 100 to atomize the liquid substrate and generate an aerosol.

[0111] As shown in Figures 1 and 2 , the first magnetic element 280 and the first electrical contact 290 are located outside the receiving cavity 270, and the first magnetic element 280 is arranged near the end surface of the proximal end 2110. Therefore, when the atomizer 100 is received in the receiving cavity 270, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element 280 and the magnetic second electrical contact 13 keeps the atomizer 100 against and coupled to the end element 2113.

[0112] FIG3 , FIG4 , FIG8 and FIG9 are schematic diagrams showing a solid aerosol-generating article 300 used as a second type of consumer product received in the receiving chamber 270 of the aerosol-generating device 200 to form an aerosol-generating system in one embodiment. As shown in FIG8 and FIG9 , in this embodiment, the aerosol-generating article 300 includes:

[0113] The induction heating element 310 can be a susceptor made of a sensitive metal or alloy, such as Permalloy, stainless steel, iron alloy, or nickel alloy. Furthermore, the induction heating element 310 can be embedded in or surround the volatile component material of the aerosol-generating article 300, thereby heating the volatile component material of the aerosol-generating article 300 to generate an aerosol. When the aerosol-generating article 300 is received in the receiving cavity 270, the induction heating element 310 is located within the induction coil 260. The induction heating element 310 is then penetrated by the magnetic field generated by the induction coil 260, generating heat, thereby heating the volatile component material of the aerosol-generating article 300 to generate an aerosol.

[0114] In this embodiment, part of the aerosol generating article 300, such as the volatile component material part, is received in the receiving cavity 270 and heated, and part of the aerosol generating article, such as the filter part, is located outside the aerosol generating device 200 and is provided for inhalation by the user.

[0115] When the aerosol-generating article 300 is received in the aerosol-generating device 200, the circuit board 220 can respond to a user's operation on the input element 201 and drive the induction coil 260 to generate a magnetic field according to a predetermined heating profile, thereby heating the induction heating element 310 on the aerosol-generating article 300. Specifically, for example, the applicant provides various modes and details regarding heating the aerosol-generating article 300 according to a predetermined heating profile in Chinese patent application CN112335940A, etc., which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0116] As shown by arrow R3 in FIG8 and FIG9 , during inhalation, external air enters the receiving chamber 270 from the air inlet 202 via the air inlet channel 205 , passes through the aerosol generating article 300 , and then carries the aerosol out to be inhaled by the user.

[0117] As shown in Figures 8 and 9 , the aerosol-generating article 300 abuts against the inner bottom wall of the receiving cavity 270 to form a stop. When the aerosol-generating article 300 is received in the receiving cavity 270, it is radially fixed by the radial clamping of the ridges 273, and a gap of approximately 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm is maintained between the aerosol-generating article 300 and the inner surface of the receiving cavity 270.

[0118] Figures 5 to 7 show schematic diagrams of an atomizer 100 used for a second type of consumer product in one embodiment; and Figures 10 and 11 show schematic diagrams of the atomizer 100 combined with an aerosol generating device 200 to form an aerosol generating system. In this embodiment, the atomizer 100 includes:

[0119] The main housing 10 is generally hollow and cylindrical, with the interior being hollow for essential functional components for storing and aerosolizing the liquid matrix. The main housing 10 has a first end 110 and a second end 120, which are opposite to each other along the length direction. The first end 110 is configured as the end through which the user inhales the aerosol, and is provided with an air outlet 111 for the user to inhale. The second end 120 is the end that connects to the proximal end 2110 of the aerosol generating device 200.

[0120] The support element 20 extends from the second end 120 of the main housing 10 into the main housing 10 ; the support element 20 is used to close the second end 120 of the main housing 10 and to support and retain the atomizer assembly installed in the main housing 10 .

[0121] As shown in Figures 5 to 7 , the main housing 10 is provided with a liquid storage chamber 113 for storing a liquid matrix, and an atomization assembly for drawing the liquid matrix from the liquid storage chamber 113 and heating and atomizing the liquid matrix. An aerosol delivery tube 112 is axially disposed within the main housing 10. The space between the aerosol delivery tube 112 and the inner wall of the main housing 10 forms the liquid storage chamber 113 for storing the liquid matrix. The aerosol delivery tube 112 extends to or terminates at an air outlet 111, thereby delivering the generated aerosol to the air outlet 111 for inhalation. In some optional embodiments, the aerosol delivery tube 112 and the main housing 10 are integrally molded from a moldable material, thereby defining the liquid storage chamber 113 between the aerosol delivery tube 112 and the main housing 10, and the liquid storage chamber 113 has an opening toward the second end 120.

[0122] 5 to 7 , the atomizer 100 further includes:

[0123] The atomizing assembly is used to atomize at least a portion of the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol. As shown in FIG7 , the atomizing assembly is housed or held within the support element 20. Furthermore, the support element 20 substantially surrounds the atomizing assembly. The atomizing assembly is substantially arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the main housing 10. The specific structure of the atomizing assembly includes:

[0124] The rigid porous body 30 is generally configured in a plate-like or sheet-like shape; and the porous body 30 has a first surface 31 and a second surface 32 that are separated from each other; the first surface 31 is arranged toward the liquid storage chamber 113 and is in fluid communication with the liquid storage chamber 113 to absorb the liquid matrix;

[0125] The resistive heating element 40, arranged as a substantially planar heating element, is coupled to the second surface 32 of the porous body 30 and is used to heat at least a portion of the liquid matrix within the porous body 30 to generate an aerosol. Specifically, the support element 20 is provided with a liquid conduction channel 23 that fluidically connects the first surface 31 of the porous body 30 with the liquid storage chamber 113. Thus, during use, the liquid matrix within the liquid storage chamber 113 is delivered to the first surface 31 of the porous body 30 via the liquid conduction channel 23 and absorbed there, as indicated by arrow R1 in FIG. 7 .

[0126] In FIG7 , the porous body 30 is configured in a sheet or plate shape; the first surface 31 and the second surface 32 are flat, extended planes; or in yet other variations, the first surface 31 and the second surface 32 are curved surfaces, such as concave or convex arcs. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the porous body 30 may have other regular or irregular shapes; for example, in further embodiments, the porous body 30 may have a variety of shapes, such as arched, cup-shaped, trough-shaped, trapezoidal, and so on. Alternatively, for example, the applicant provides details regarding the shape of an arched porous body element with an internal channel, as well as the configuration of the porous body element for absorbing and atomizing a liquid matrix, in Chinese patent application CN215684777U, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0127] In some embodiments, the porous body 30 comprises a conventional porous material, such as a rigid foam metal, porous ceramic, or porous glass, formed by mixing the matrix raw materials with a pore-forming agent and then sintering. The numerous disordered micropores within the porous body 30, defined by the pore-forming agent sintering, absorb and transfer the liquid matrix. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the porous body 30 is formed by forming a plurality of through-holes in predetermined directions in a dense matrix material through laser pore generation, mechanical drilling, or etching. In some embodiments, the dense matrix material may include, for example, dense glass or ceramic.

[0128] As shown in FIG7 , the resistive heating element 40 may be a heating mesh, a heating sheet, a printed heating trace, a deposited heating coating, a heating film, etc., bonded to the second surface 32 . In this embodiment, the resistive heating element 40 is a resistive heating element 40 made of a resistive metal or alloy material; the resistive metal or alloy may include, for example, iron-chromium-aluminum, iron-aluminum alloy, silver-palladium alloy, iron-nickel-aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, graphite alloy, etc.

[0129] In FIG7 , an atomization chamber 41 is arranged between the support element 20 and the resistive heating element 40 to accommodate the aerosol released from the second surface 32. The air inlet 22 is opposite to and communicates with the atomization chamber 41, so that during inhalation, external air can enter the atomization chamber 41 through the air inlet 22; and the atomization chamber 41 is in airflow communication with the aerosol transmission tube 112, so that during inhalation, the aerosol released into the atomization chamber 41 is transferred to the air outlet 111 via the aerosol transmission tube 112 for inhalation, as shown by arrow R2 in FIG7 . As shown in FIG7 , the atomization chamber 41 is located on the side of the porous body 30 facing the second end 120 along the longitudinal direction of the atomizer 100.

[0130] As shown in FIG7 , the atomizer 100 further includes:

[0131] The flexible first sealing element 17 is located inside the support element 20 and is arranged between the support element 20 and the porous body 30 to provide a seal therebetween. Specifically, the first sealing element 17 may be annular in shape and arranged around the porous body 30 .

[0132] As shown in FIG7 , the atomizer 100 further includes:

[0133] The flexible second sealing element 16 is configured in the shape of a cap. The second sealing element 16 is at least partially positioned between the support element 20 and the main housing 10, thereby providing a seal therebetween. Furthermore, the sealing element 16 is also at least partially positioned between the support element 20 and the aerosol delivery tube 11, thereby providing a seal therebetween. The sealing element 16 is also provided with an escape hole 161, opposite the liquid-conducting channel 23 of the support element 20. This allows the liquid matrix within the liquid storage chamber 113 to flow through the escape hole 161 and into the liquid-conducting channel 23.

[0134] Figures 10 and 11 illustrate schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating system, in which an atomizer 100 for a first type of consumer product is coupled to an aerosol generating device 200 to form an aerosol generating system. As shown in Figures 10 and 11 , a portion of the atomizer 100 is coupled to a recess 2111 defined at the proximal end 2110 of an end element 2113 of the aerosol generating device 200. A latching protrusion 2112 on the inner sidewall of the recess 2111 of the end element 2113 is securely connected to a latching groove 114 on the atomizer 100. Furthermore, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element 280 of the aerosol generating device 200 and the magnetic second electrical contact 13 of the atomizer 100 ensures that the atomizer 100 is stably received within the receiving chamber 270. As shown in Figures 10 and 11 , the atomizer 100 does not extend into or is not received within the receiving chamber 270.

[0135] As indicated by arrow R3 in FIG11 , when a user draws in air from the nebulizer 100, external air entering through the air inlet 202 enters the receiving chamber 270 via the air inlet passage 205, passes through the receiving chamber 270, and then enters the nebulizer 100. Finally, the air passes through the nebulizer 100 and carries the aerosol to the air outlet 111. When the user draws in air from the nebulizer 100, the airflow sensor 250 senses the airflow through the nebulizer 100 caused by the user's inhalation through the sensing passage 251 and the second communication port 234 of the receiving chamber 270.

[0136] As shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 , when the nebulizer 100 is coupled to the proximal end 2110 of the aerosol generating device 200 , the air inlet 22 of the nebulizer 100 is opposite to the receiving cavity 270 and is in airflow communication with the receiving cavity 270 .

[0137] In an embodiment, when a user draws in the atomizer 100, the circuit on the circuit board 220 controls the first electrical contact 290 to output a direct current based on the sensing result of the airflow sensor 250, thereby providing power to the resistive heating element 40 of the atomizer 100, so that the resistive heating element 40 generates heat through resistive Joule heat to heat the liquid matrix of the porous body 30 to generate an aerosol.

[0138] In some embodiments, when the airflow sensor 250 detects a user inhaling the atomizer 100, the circuit board 220 controls the supply of direct current according to a first power mode in response to the airflow sensor 250's sensing result, thereby heating the resistive heating element 40 of the atomizer 100 by generating resistive Joule heating when the direct current flows through it. This first power mode is described, for example, in Chinese patent application CN115067564A, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, as a constant power supply mode for heating and atomizing liquid substrates. Alternatively, in some other implementations, power output may be provided in a constant temperature heating mode.

[0139] In some embodiments, when the circuit board 220 detects that the aerosol-generating article 300 is received in the receiving cavity 270, the circuit board 220, in response to an input signal generated by the user operating the input element 201, provides an alternating current to the induction coil 260 according to the second power mode, so that the induction coil 260 generates a magnetic field to induce the induction heating element 310 in the aerosol-generating article 300 to heat the aerosol-generating article 300 according to a predetermined heating profile. For example, various first power modes and details regarding causing the induction heating element 310 to heat the aerosol-generating article 300 according to a predetermined heating profile are provided by the applicant in Chinese patent application CN112335940A and other documents, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0140] To meet the above requirements for induction heating of the aerosol-generating article 300 and DC heating of the atomizer 100, in the embodiment shown in FIG16 , the circuits arranged on the circuit board 220 of the aerosol-generating device 200 include:

[0141] The DC output module includes a first switch S1 connected between a voltage output terminal of the power supply 210, such as a positive electrode, and a first electrical contact 290, and another of the first electrical contacts 290 is connected to the negative electrode of the power supply 210, such as a ground. Thus, by controlling the first switch S1 to conduct, the DC voltage output by the power supply 210 is provided to the resistive heating element 40 of the atomizer 100 via the first electrical contact 290.

[0142] The AC output module includes a second switch S2 connected between the voltage output terminal of the power supply 210 , such as the positive pole, and the inverter 222 . The inverter 222 is used to convert the DC voltage output by the power supply 210 into an AC current and provide it to the induction coil 260 .

[0143] Specifically, in Figure 16 , inverter 222 includes an LC oscillator consisting of capacitor C1 and induction coil 260, and an inverter bridge that drives the LC oscillator to oscillate, thereby generating an alternating current flowing through induction coil 260. In Figure 16 , the LC oscillator is a series LC oscillator in which capacitor C1 is connected in series with induction coil 260; accordingly, the inverter bridge comprises a half-bridge consisting of switch transistors Q1 and Q2. Alternatively, in other variations, the LC oscillator may be a parallel LC oscillator in which capacitor C1 is connected in parallel with induction coil 260, or an LCC oscillator; correspondingly, the inverter bridge may also include a full bridge or H-bridge comprising four switch transistors.

[0144] In some embodiments, the circuit 220 can detect the type of the consumer product coupled to the aerosol generating device 200, specifically whether the consumer product coupled to the aerosol generating device 200 is an aerosol generating article 300 or an atomizer 100. Specifically, the circuit 220 may further include:

[0145] The detection unit is used to detect or identify the type of consumer product combined with the aerosol generating device 200, so that the operation of the aerosol generating device 200, especially the output of heating or electricity, is optimized to match or adapt to the corresponding first type of consumer product or second type of consumer product.

[0146] Specifically, in some embodiments, based on the changes in electrical characteristics of the induction coil 260, such as the equivalent inductance, resonant frequency, and / or quality factor Q value, and / or resonant voltage and / or resonant current, caused by the induction heating element 310 being received in the receiving cavity 270, the circuitry determines the presence of the aerosol-generating article 300 in the receiving cavity 270 by monitoring the electrical characteristics of the induction coil 260, such as the resonant frequency, and / or quality factor Q value, and / or resonant voltage and / or resonant current. For example, the applicant provides detailed electronic module composition, component arrangement, principles, and process details of the circuitry on the circuit board 220 for detecting electrical characteristics of the induction coil 260, such as the resonant frequency, and / or quality factor Q value, and / or resonant voltage and / or resonant current, in Chinese patent applications CN114601199A and CN112806618A, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0147] Specifically, in some embodiments, one of the two first electrical contacts 290 is connected to the positive pole of the power supply 210 to serve as a positive contact, and the other is connected to the negative pole of the power supply 210 to serve as a negative contact. The positive contact and the negative contact are spaced apart from each other and insulated from each other. When the atomizer 100 is combined with the aerosol generating device 200, the two first electrical contacts 290 are connected through the atomizer 100. The circuit 220 determines whether the atomizer 100 is combined with the aerosol generating device 200 by monitoring the change in resistance or voltage between the two first electrical contacts 290 and the switching of the electrically conductive or electrically disconnected state. Specifically, the applicant provided in Chinese patent applications CN210782934U, CN210782935U, etc. the specific device arrangement, principles, and step details of the circuit for determining whether the nebulizer 100 is combined with the aerosol generating device 200 based on changes in resistance or voltage or electrical conduction / disconnection status between the first electrical contacts 290 when the nebulizer 100 is combined with the aerosol generating device 200. The full text of the above-mentioned documents is incorporated herein by reference.

[0148] In some embodiments, when the circuit board 220 detects that the atomizer 100 is received in the aerosol generating device 200, the circuit board 220 is only controlled to provide a DC output to the first electrical contact 290 in response to the sensing result of the airflow sensor 250, and the circuit board 220 is prevented from controlling the supply of an alternating current to the induction coil 260 in response to an input signal generated by a user operating the input element 201. Similarly, when the circuit board 220 detects that the aerosol generating article 300 is received in the receiving chamber 270, the circuit board 220 is only controlled to control the supply of an alternating current to the induction coil 260 in response to an input signal generated by the input element 201, and the airflow sensor 250 is prevented from sensing the airflow flowing through the receiving chamber 270 generated by the user's puff.

[0149] 11 to 15 show schematic diagrams of a nebulizer 100a and an aerosol generating device 200a according to yet another alternative embodiment, and an aerosol generating system formed by combining them; in this embodiment, the aerosol generating device 200a includes:

[0150] a housing having a proximal end 2110a and a distal end 2120a facing each other in a longitudinal direction;

[0151] A power supply 210a and a circuit board 220a near the distal end 2120a, and a bracket 240a for supporting and fixing the power supply 210a and the circuit board 220a;

[0152] The input element 201a is electrically connected to the circuit board 220a and is used for generating input signals by user operation;

[0153] a receiving cavity 270a near the proximal end 2110a for selectively receiving one of the nebulizer 100a or the aerosol-generating article 300; the receiving cavity 270a has an opening near the proximal end 2110a for removably receiving one of the nebulizer 100a or the aerosol-generating article 300 through the opening;

[0154] The induction coil 260a is arranged around the receiving cavity 270a; the induction coil 260a is operably electrically connected to the circuit board 220a, and the circuit board 220a can provide an alternating current to generate a changing magnetic field in the receiving cavity 270a;

[0155] The groove 2111a is located at the proximal end 2110a; when the atomizer 100a is coupled to the proximal end 2110a, at least a portion of the atomizer 100a is accommodated in the groove 2111a and rests against the inner bottom wall of the groove 2111a;

[0156] The first magnetic element 280a is configured to attract the magnetic second electrical contact 13a on the atomizer 100a. The first electrical contact 290a extends through the annular first magnetic element 280a and into the recess 2111a. When the atomizer 100a is coupled to the proximal end 2110a, the first electrical contact 290a contacts the magnetic second electrical contact 13a, thereby providing electrical power to the atomizer 100a.

[0157] The airflow sensor 250a is connected to the second communication port 234a of the receiving chamber 270a through the sensing channel 251a, so as to sense the airflow flowing through the receiving chamber 270a when the user inhales;

[0158] The air inlet 202a is arranged on the outer surface of the shell of the aerosol generating device 200a, and is connected to the first communication port 233a of the receiving chamber 270a through the air inlet channel 205a, so as to supply external air into the receiving chamber 270a when the user inhales, as shown by the arrow R3 in Figure 11; and in this embodiment, the air inlet 202a is arranged in the longitudinal direction close to the side of the receiving chamber 270a facing away from the open end.

[0159] As shown in FIG11 to FIG15 , the atomizer 100a of this variation embodiment includes:

[0160] The housing 10a includes a first end 110a and a second end 120a that are longitudinally opposed to each other. The first end 110a of the housing 10a has an air outlet 111a for outputting aerosol for inhalation by a user. The second end 120a of the housing 10a has an air inlet 123a for allowing air to enter during inhalation. The housing 10a includes a first shell 11a and a second shell 12a. The first shell 11a is adjacent to and defines the first end 110a, and the second shell 12a is adjacent to and defines the second end 120a.

[0161] The second housing 12a comprises a first portion 121a and a second portion 122a arranged in sequence along the longitudinal direction. The first portion 121a extends into the first housing 11a and forms a tight, sealed fit with the first housing 11a through an interference fit. The second portion 122a is cylindrical and located outside the first housing 11a. The outer diameter of the first portion 121a is greater than that of the second portion 122a, creating a step between the first portion 121a and the second portion 122a.

[0162] When the atomizer 100a is received in the aerosol generating device 200a, the second portion 122a of the second housing 12a extends into the receiving cavity 270a. Furthermore, when the atomizer 100a is coupled to the aerosol generating device 200a, the first portion 121a abuts against the inner bottom wall of the recess 2111a.

[0163] The second magnetic electrical contact 13a is arranged on the first portion 121a of the second housing 12a.

[0164] As shown in FIG11 to FIG15 , the atomizer 100a further includes:

[0165] The aerosol output tube 112a is arranged in the first housing 11a and extends from the air outlet 111a toward the second end 120a, so as to output the aerosol in the atomizer 100a to the air outlet 111a;

[0166] a liquid storage chamber 113a, defined between the aerosol output tube 112a and the first housing 11a, for storing a liquid matrix;

[0167] An inner tube 14a is located within the second housing 12a. The inner tube 14a extends from the first portion 121a of the second housing 12a to the second portion 122a. The inner tube 14a at least partially surrounds and is coupled to the aerosol output tube 112a. A liquid conduction channel 15a is defined between the inner tube 14a and the second housing 12a. The inner tube 14a further has a through-hole 141a for allowing liquid matrix in the liquid conduction channel 15a to enter the inner tube 14a through the through-hole 141a.

[0168] The atomization assembly is located within the inner tube 14a; the atomization assembly includes a liquid-conducting element 30a and a resistive heating element 40a, which are used to absorb the liquid matrix through the perforation 141a and heat it to generate an aerosol; specifically, the liquid-conducting element 30a is connected to the liquid-conducting channel 15a through the perforation 141a to receive the liquid matrix; the resistive heating element 40a is combined with the liquid-conducting element 30a to heat at least a portion of the liquid matrix within the liquid-conducting element 30a to generate an aerosol. In some embodiments, the liquid-conducting element 30a is a capillary element or a porous element having internal pores that can absorb and transfer the liquid matrix through capillary action. In some implementations, the liquid-conducting element 30a may include a soft porous capillary element, such as fiber cotton, non-woven fabric, etc.; alternatively, the liquid-conducting element 30a may include a rigid porous element, such as porous ceramics, porous glass, foam metal, etc. And in the implementation shown in Figures 11 to 15, the resistive heating element 40a can be in the form of a heating track, a heating film, a heating coating, a heating mesh or a heating coil, etc., which is combined with the liquid-conducting element 30a.

[0169] In the embodiments shown in Figures 11 to 15 , the liquid-conducting element 30a is hollow and cylindrical in shape. The liquid-conducting element 30a includes an outer surface and an inner surface that are radially opposed to each other. The outer surface of the liquid-conducting element 30a is configured as a liquid-absorbing surface for fluid communication with the liquid storage chamber 113a to thereby absorb the liquid matrix, as indicated by arrow R1 in Figure 14 . The inner surface of the liquid-conducting element 30a is configured as an atomization surface. The resistive heating element 40a is arranged in conjunction with or adjacent to the inner surface of the liquid-conducting element 30a to heat the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol, which is then released from the atomization surface. During inhalation, the aerosol is then transferred to the inhalation port 111a along with the inhalation airflow and inhaled, as indicated by arrow R2 in Figure 14 . Alternatively, in further variations, the liquid-conducting element 30a may be configured to be generally sheet-like, plate-like, or block-like, with two side surfaces that are opposed to each other in the thickness direction serving as the liquid-absorbing surface and the atomization surface, respectively.

[0170] As shown in Figures 11 to 15, the atomizer 100a further includes:

[0171] The flexible sealing element 16a is configured in the shape of a cap. The sealing element 16a wraps around or covers the first portion 121a of the second shell 12a. The sealing element 16a is at least partially located between the first portion 121a of the second shell 12a and the first shell 11a, thereby providing a seal therebetween. Furthermore, the sealing element 16a is at least partially located between the inner tube 14a and the aerosol delivery tube 11a, thereby providing a seal therebetween. The sealing element 16a also has an escape hole 161a opposite the liquid-conducting channel 15a, allowing the liquid matrix in the liquid storage chamber 113a to pass through the escape hole 161a and flow into the liquid-conducting channel 15a.

[0172] In this embodiment, the resistance heating element 40a is made of a resistive metal or alloy. Both ends of the resistance heating element 40a are connected to the magnetic second electrical contacts 13a via soldered conductive wires. Thus, during use, the second electrical contacts 13a conduct a direct current through the resistance heating element 40a, causing the resistance heating element 40a to generate heat through resistive Joule heating.

[0173] Accordingly, the above aerosol generating device 200a can also receive the aerosol generating article 300 having the induction heating element 310 through the receiving cavity 270a, and generate aerosol by inducing the induction heating element 310 to heat the aerosol generating article 300 by generating a magnetic field by the induction coil 260a.

[0174] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the second portion 122a of the second housing 12a of the atomizer 100a defines a longitudinal or slender portion extending into the receiving chamber 270a, which receives the heated atomized liquid matrix in the receiving chamber 270a through the slender portion; and the first portion 121a of the first housing 11a and the second housing 12a serves as the main body exposed outside the receiving chamber 270a. The magnetic second electrical contact 13a is disposed on the main body to magnetically attract the first magnetic element 280a and abut against the first electrical contact 290a to form electrical conductivity; thereby, the main body of the atomizer 100a exposed outside the receiving chamber 270a abuts or is coupled to the end element 2113a. Or the main body includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction; wherein the first side is the side away from the air outlet 111a, and the second side is the side of the air outlet 111a; and the slender portion is extended from the first side of the main body away from the air outlet 111a or extended away from the second side, so that at least part of the surface of the main body on the first side is an exposed surface and avoids the slender portion; the liquid storage chamber 113a can be located only in the main body, or extend from the main body to the slender portion; and the resistive heating element is located in the slender portion; and the magnetic second electrical contact 13a is located on the first side of the main body, and extends from the main body to the exposed surface.

[0175] Or in some other variations, the above resistance heating element 40 / 40a may also be an electrically induced infrared heating element, a microwave heating element, etc. powered by the second electrical contact 13 / 13a.

[0176] It should be noted that the specification and drawings of this application provide preferred embodiments of the present application, but are not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. Furthermore, it is possible for a person skilled in the art to make improvements or changes based on the above description, and all such improvements and changes should fall within the scope of protection of the claims attached to this application.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, which can be selectively combined with an aerosol generating article or a nebulizer; characterized in that: include: power supply; a receiving chamber for receiving an aerosol-generating article including a first heating element; an induction coil connected to the power source and arranged at least partially around the receiving cavity; the induction coil is configured to generate a changing magnetic field when powered on, thereby inducing the first heating element to heat the aerosol-generating article received in the receiving cavity to generate aerosol; A first electrical contact is connected to the power supply and is located outside the receiving cavity or away from the receiving cavity; when an atomizer including a second heating element and a liquid matrix is ​​combined with the aerosol generating device, the first electrical contact is configured to output a direct current to the second heating element so that the second heating element heats the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that Also includes: The first magnetic element is located outside the receiving cavity or away from the receiving cavity and is used to magnetically attract the atomizer so that the atomizer can remain combined with the aerosol generating device.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, characterized in that The first magnetic element is at least partially arranged around the first electrical contact; or the first electrical contact at least partially passes through the first magnetic element.

4. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes: A proximal end and a distal end facing away from each other in a longitudinal direction; The first electrical contacts are arranged linearly along the longitudinal direction and are at least partially exposed at the proximal end.

5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes: The circuit is configured to control the power supply to output an alternating current to the induction coil in a first power mode to generate a changing magnetic field, and to control the power supply to output a direct current to the second heating element through the first electrical contact in a second power mode.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, characterized in that The circuit is configured to control the induction coil to generate a changing magnetic field for a predetermined duration in the first power mode to induce the first heating element to heat the aerosol generating article according to a predetermined heating curve within a predetermined duration.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, characterized in that The circuit is configured to control the output of a direct current through the first electrical contact at a predetermined power in the second power mode, so that the second heating element heats the liquid medium at the predetermined power.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, characterized in that Also includes: Input element, used for user operation to generate input signal; The circuit is configured to respond to an input signal from the input element and control the induction coil to generate a changing magnetic field according to a first power mode.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, characterized in that The circuit is configured to prevent the input element from generating an input signal or not respond to an input signal from the input element when the atomizer is coupled to the aerosol generating device.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, characterized in that Also includes: an airflow sensor, used for sensing the airflow flowing through the receiving cavity; The circuit is configured to respond to the sensing result of the airflow sensor and then control the supply of direct current to the second heating element through the first electrical contact according to a second power mode.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, characterized in that The circuit is configured to not respond to a sensing result of the airflow sensor or to prevent the airflow sensor from sensing the airflow passing through the receiving cavity when an aerosol-generating article is received in the receiving cavity.

12. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes: A proximal end and a distal end facing away from each other in a longitudinal direction; A groove located at the proximal end; the groove is configured to accommodate or engage a portion of the nebulizer; The first electrical contact is an elastic electrical contact that can be selectively actuated between an extended state and a compressed state and biased to return to the extended state; at least a portion of the first electrical contact extends into the groove; when the atomizer is combined with the aerosol generating device, the first electrical contact is pressed to the compressed state and a conductive connection is established with the first electrical contact.

13. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The aerosol generating device is configured to prevent a direct current from being output through the first electrical contact when the induction coil generates a varying magnetic field, and to prevent the induction coil from generating a varying magnetic field when a direct current is output through the first electrical contact.

14. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: Also includes: Circuitry is configured to determine the presence of an aerosol-generating article in the receiving cavity based on a change in at least one electrical characteristic of the induction coil caused by inserting or removing an aerosol-generating article including a first heating element into or from the receiving cavity.

15. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first electrical contact includes a positive contact and a negative contact insulated from each other; The circuit is configured to cause the aerosol generating device to generate the aerosol according to the atomizer combined with the aerosol generating device A change in at least one electrical characteristic between the positive contact and the negative contact identifies the atomizer as being coupled to the aerosol generating device.

16. An aerosol generating system, characterized in that: include: A nebulizer, used to nebulize a liquid matrix to generate an aerosol; an aerosol generating device for supplying power to the atomizer; The aerosol generating device comprises a receiving cavity with an open opening, and a first electrical contact located outside the receiving cavity; The atomizer includes a main body portion and an elongated portion extending longitudinally from the main body portion, wherein a second electrical contact is arranged in the main body portion; the elongated portion is arranged with a heating element for heating a liquid matrix, and the heating element is conductively connected to the second electrical contact; the elongated portion can be removably received in the receiving cavity through the opening; and when the elongated portion is received in the receiving cavity, the second electrical contact of the main body portion establishes a conductive connection with the first electrical contact, thereby enabling the aerosol generating device to supply power to the heating element of the atomizer through the first electrical contact.

17. An atomizer, characterized in that: include: A housing, the housing comprising a main body portion and an elongated portion extending from the main body portion; wherein the main body portion comprises a first side and a second side opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction; the elongated portion is arranged to extend from the first side away from the second side in a longitudinal direction; a liquid storage chamber located inside the main body portion or extending from the main body portion to the elongated portion; a heating element disposed within the elongated portion; an electrical contact disposed on the first side of the body portion and electrically connected to the heating element for conducting an electric current on the heating element; The first side of the main body portion has a surface away from the elongated portion, and the electrical contact is at least partially exposed on the surface.

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