Electronic atomization device

By setting a sensing surface opposite to the airflow sensor of the electronic atomization device and forming airflow communication through the second air inlet, the problem of false triggering caused by user suction when the air inlet is closed is solved, and the safety of the device is improved.

WO2025092507A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-05-08SHENZHEN FIRST UNION TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/CN2024/126412
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-11-01
Filing Date
2024-10-22
Publication Date
2025-05-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The user's suction action of the existing electronic atomization device when the air inlet is closed may cause the airflow sensor to be triggered by mistake, causing safety hazards.

Method used

An electronic atomization device is designed, by providing a first sensing surface and a second sensing surface opposite to each other in the airflow sensor, and forming airflow communication through at least one second air intake port, ensuring that the pressure difference sensed when the air intake port is closed is basically the same, and avoiding false triggering.

Benefits of technology

It effectively avoids the mistrigger caused by user suction when the air inlet is closed, and improves the safety of the device.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

An electronic atomization device (100), comprising: a liquid storage cavity (112) and a heating element (40); a first air inlet (21), a gas outlet (113), and an airflow channel located between the first air inlet (21) and the gas outlet (113); a separator (16) dividing the airflow channel into a first portion located on a first side of the separator (16) and a second portion located on a second side of the separator (16); a second air inlet (161) in gas communication with the first portion and the second portion; and an airflow sensor (15) for sensing an airflow flowing through the airflow channel, the airflow sensor (15) comprising a first sensing face (151) and a second sensing face (152) which are respectively arranged on the first portion and the second portion and face away from each other, and the first sensing face (151) being in airflow communication with the second sensing face (152) by means of the second air inlet (161). When a user vapes while the first air inlet (21) is closed, the pressure sensed by the first sensing face (151) of the airflow sensor (15) is substantially the same as the pressure sensed by the second sensing face (152), and thus is beneficial for preventing false triggering.
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Description

Electronic atomization device

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the China Patent Office on November 1, 2023, with application number 202311451055.X and entitled “Electronic Atomization Device,” the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments of the present application relate to the field of electronic atomization technology, and in particular to an electronic atomization device. 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 that releases a compound by heating rather than burning a material. For example, the material may be tobacco or other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine. As an example, there are electronic atomization devices, which typically contain a liquid that is heated to vaporize it, thereby producing an inhalable aerosol. Known electronic atomization devices have an air inlet and an airflow sensor arranged at the distal end; the airflow sensor has a first side and a second side that are airflow-isolated from each other; wherein the first side is connected to an airflow channel passing through the electronic atomization device to sense the pressure in the airflow channel during inhalation, and the second side is connected to the outside atmosphere to sense the pressure of the outside atmosphere, and the user's inhalation is determined when the difference between the pressure sensed by the first side and the outside atmospheric pressure sensed by the second side is greater than a preset threshold. This type of electronic atomization device usually closes the air inlet when it is not desired to output aerosol to prevent air from entering and exiting. When users, especially minors, take a puff when the air inlet is closed, although airflow and aerosol output through the electronic atomization device will not be formed, the first side of the airflow sensor can still be triggered by the pressure drop in the airflow channel caused by the puffing action, thereby forming a pressure difference exceeding the threshold with the second side, posing a safety hazard.

[0006] Application Contents

[0007] One embodiment of the present application provides an electronic atomization device, comprising:

[0008] a liquid storage chamber for storing a liquid matrix;

[0009] a heating element for heating the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol;

[0010] a first air inlet, an air outlet, and an air flow channel located between the first air inlet and the air outlet; the air flow channel is arranged to define an air flow path from the first air inlet to the air outlet via the heating element to transfer the aerosol to the air outlet;

[0011] a divider that divides the airflow channel into a first portion located on a first side of the divider and a second portion located on a second side of the divider;

[0012] a second gas inlet, gas connecting the first part and the second part;

[0013] The airflow sensor is used to sense the airflow flowing through the airflow channel; the airflow sensor includes a first sensing surface and a second sensing surface respectively arranged in the first part and the second part and facing each other, and the first sensing surface is connected to the airflow through the second air inlet and the second sensing surface.

[0014] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first air inlet is greater than the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet; more preferably, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first air inlet is greater than 1.5 times the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet.

[0015] In some embodiments, the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet is between 0.8 mm 2 ~2.3mm 2 ; Preferably, there is more than one second air inlet.

[0016] In some embodiments, a cross-sectional area of ​​at least a portion of the second air inlet decreases along the air flow direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, the second air inlet is configured to cause a pressure drop during use that can drive the sensor to start; preferably, the second air inlet is configured to form an air pressure difference between 100 Pa and 600 Pa during use.

[0018] In some embodiments, further comprising:

[0019] A movable sealing element is arranged to be movable between a closed position and an open position to selectively close the first air inlet in the closed position and to open the first air inlet in the open position.

[0020] In some embodiments, the axis of the airflow sensor is arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device;

[0021] And / or, the first sensing surface and the second sensing surface are arranged opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device;

[0022] And / or, the airflow sensor is arranged away from the longitudinal center axis of the electronic atomization device.

[0023] In some embodiments, further comprising:

[0024] The proximal end and the distal end are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction; the air outlet is arranged at the proximal end, and the first air inlet is arranged at the distal end;

[0025] The distance between the airflow sensor and the near end is smaller than the distance between the airflow sensor and the far end.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heating element is disposed between the air outlet and the partition.

[0027] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0028] The battery cell is used to provide power; along the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device, the battery cell and the liquid storage chamber are arranged at intervals;

[0029] The air flow sensor is located between the battery core and the liquid storage chamber; or the air flow sensor is located between the first air inlet and the battery core.

[0030] In some embodiments, it further includes:

[0031] a bracket for receiving or holding a heating element;

[0032] The air flow sensor and the partition are housed or held in the bracket and are arranged away from the liquid storage chamber.

[0033] In some embodiments, the second air inlet is a through hole on the partition; and / or at least a portion of an inner surface of the second air inlet is defined by the partition.

[0034] In some embodiments, the partition wraps a portion of the surface of the airflow sensor and avoids or exposes at least a portion of the first sensing surface and the second sensing surface.

[0035] Another embodiment of the present application further provides an electronic atomization device, comprising:

[0036] a liquid storage chamber for storing a liquid matrix;

[0037] a heating element for heating the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol;

[0038] a first air inlet, an air outlet, and an air flow channel located between the first air inlet and the air outlet; the air flow channel is arranged to define an air flow path from the first air inlet through the heating element to the air outlet to transfer the aerosol to the air outlet;

[0039] An airflow sensor comprises a first sensing surface and a second sensing surface opposite to each other, and senses a difference between a pressure sensed by the first sensing surface and a pressure sensed by the second sensing surface;

[0040] a partition wrapping a portion of the airflow sensor and exposing or avoiding the first sensing surface and the second sensing surface; the airflow channel including at least one second air inlet passing through the partition;

[0041] The first sensing surface and the second sensing surface of the airflow sensor are in airflow communication via at least one second air inlet.

[0042] Another embodiment of the present application further provides an electronic atomization device, comprising:

[0043] a liquid storage chamber for storing a liquid matrix;

[0044] a heating element for heating the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol;

[0045] Battery cells, used to power the heating element;

[0046] an air inlet, and an air flow channel located between the first air inlet and the air outlet; the air flow channel is arranged to define an air flow path from the first air inlet via the heating element to the air outlet to transfer the aerosol to the air outlet;

[0047] An airflow sensor is used to sense changes in airflow flowing through the inside of the electronic atomization device; along the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device, the airflow sensor is arranged between the heating element and the battery core; the airflow sensor includes a first sensing surface and a second sensing surface opposite to each other along the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device; the first sensing surface is connected to the airflow at the air outlet, and the second sensing surface is connected to the airflow at the first air inlet.

[0048] In the above electronic atomization device, the first sensing surface and the second sensing surface of the airflow sensor are respectively connected to the first port and the second port of the second air inlet of the partition. When the user inhales when the air inlet is closed, the pressure sensed by the first sensing surface and the pressure sensed by the second sensing surface are basically the same, which is beneficial for preventing false triggering. 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 structural diagram of an electronic atomization device provided by an embodiment from one perspective;

[0051] FIG2 is an exploded schematic diagram of the operating mechanism and the end cover in FIG1 before assembly;

[0052] FIG3 is an exploded schematic diagram of the operating mechanism and the end cover in FIG2 before being assembled from another perspective;

[0053] FIG4 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the electronic atomization device in FIG1 from one perspective;

[0054] FIG5 is a schematic diagram of the sealing element of the operating mechanism in FIG4 moving to a closed position;

[0055] FIG6 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the electronic atomization device in FIG4 after some components are assembled on the bracket at one viewing angle;

[0056] FIG7 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the airflow sensor and the partition in FIG6 after assembly from one viewing angle;

[0057] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the airflow sensor and the partition in FIG6 after being assembled from another perspective;

[0058] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the airflow sensor and the partition in FIG. 6 after being assembled from another perspective. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] 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.

[0060] The present application proposes an electronic atomization device for atomizing a liquid matrix to generate an aerosol.

[0061] Figures 1 and 2 show schematic diagrams of an electronic atomization device 100 according to one embodiment, including several components disposed within an outer body or housing. The overall design of the outer body or housing may vary, and the type or configuration of the outer body that may define the overall size and shape of the electronic atomization device 100 may vary. Typically, the elongated body may be formed from a single, integral housing, or the elongated housing may be formed from two or more separable bodies.

[0062] For example, the electronic atomization device 100 can have a control body at one end, which has a housing containing one or more reusable components (e.g., a battery such as a rechargeable battery and / or a rechargeable supercapacitor, and various electronic devices for controlling the operation of the product) and an outer body or housing for suction at the other end.

[0063] In some embodiments, the outer body or housing of the electronic atomization device 100 substantially defines the outer surface of the electronic atomization device 100. In the specific embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the electronic atomization device 100 includes:

[0064] The housing 10 may include one or more reusable components; the housing 10 has a proximal end 110 and a distal end 120 opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction; in use, the proximal end 110 is the end close to the user for suction; the distal end 120 is the end away from the user.

[0065] In some examples, all or only a portion of housing 10 may be formed from a metal or alloy such as stainless steel, aluminum, or other suitable materials including various plastics (eg, polycarbonate), metal-plating over plastic, ceramic, and the like.

[0066] In some embodiments, the housing 10 is formed from several parts. In some embodiments, the housing 10 is open at the distal end 120. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the housing 10 includes:

[0067] The first shell 11 and the second shell 12 are close to or define a proximal end 110 , and the second shell 12 is close to or define a distal end 120 .

[0068] As shown in FIG3 to FIG5 , the electronic atomization device 100 further includes:

[0069] The battery cell 70 is used for power supply and is arranged in the second housing 12 .

[0070] In the embodiments shown in FIG. 3 to FIG. 5 , the electronic atomization device 100 further includes:

[0071] The end cap 20 is coupled to and seals the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10 / second shell 12; the end cap 20 is removable and detachable from the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10 / second shell 12. After the end cap 20 is removed or detached from the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10 / second shell 12, the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10 is opened, allowing the battery cell 70 to be removed or replaced from the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10 / second shell 12. Specifically, after the end cap 20 is removed, the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10 is opened, allowing the battery cell 70 to be removed or removed from the distal end 120 of the outer shell 10 by gently shaking or flicking.

[0072] 3 to 5 , the assembled rear end cover 20 at least partially extends from the distal end 120 into the housing 10 / second shell 12 ; and a first air inlet 21 is arranged on the end cover 20 for allowing external air to enter the electronic atomization device 100 .

[0073] In order to form a detachable connection between the end cap 20 and the distal end 120 of the housing 10, referring to Figures 3 to 5, the electronic atomization device 100 further includes:

[0074] The connecting element 19 is located within the housing 10 and disposed at the distal end 120. The connecting element 19 and the second shell 12 of the housing 10 are securely connected to each other through a tight fit such as riveting or interference fit. During use, the end cap 20 is removably connected to the connecting element 19, thereby establishing a removable connection with the housing 10. In an embodiment, the connecting element 19 is made of a polymer plastic or a rigid alloy such as stainless steel. For example, in some embodiments, the connecting element 19 is provided with a first connecting structure such as a protrusion, and the end cap 20 is provided with a second connecting structure such as a slot. During use, the end cap 20 and the connecting element 19 are removably connected through the cooperation of the first connecting structure such as the protrusion and the second connecting structure such as the slot.

[0075] As shown in FIG1 to FIG5 , the electronic atomization device 100 further includes:

[0076] The operating mechanism 30 is at least partially housed and installed in the end cover 20 , and can be operated by a user to selectively open and close the first air inlet 21 on the end cover 20 .

[0077] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the operating mechanism 30 includes:

[0078] An operating element 31 , a sealing element 32 , a connecting element 34 and a spring element 33 .

[0079] After assembly, the operating element 31 is mainly installed and accommodated in the end cover 20, and the operating element 31 is at least partially exposed outside the end cover 20, so as to be operated by the user, such as pressing and rotating operations;

[0080] a sealing element 32 , which can be moved under the driving force of the operating element 31 to selectively close or open the first air inlet 21 ;

[0081] a connecting element 34, connecting the operating element 31 to the sealing element 32 so that a user can drive the movement of the sealing element 32 by operating the operating element 31;

[0082] The elastic element 33 is arranged between the end cover 20 and the operating element 31 .

[0083] In an embodiment, the user operates the operating element 31 to drive the sealing element 32 to move; for example, the movement may include longitudinal movement along the end cap 20 and / or the housing 10 and / or rotation around the central axis of the end cap 20 and / or the housing 10.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 3 to FIG. 5 , the connecting element 34 is a common countersunk screw, which passes through the sealing element 32 and is connected to the operating element 31 through threads.

[0085] As shown in Figures 3 to 5 , the sealing element 32 is provided with an escape notch 321. Furthermore, the sealing element 32 can be rotated by the operating element 31 about the central axis of the end cap 20 and / or the housing 10, so that the escape notch 321 is aligned with or offset from the first air inlet 21 on the end cap 20, thereby selectively opening or closing the first air inlet 21. In some embodiments, the sealing element 32 is made of a flexible material such as silicone or a thermoplastic elastomer. Specifically, for example, the sealing element 32 in Figure 4 is in the open position, and the avoidance gap 321 is aligned with the first air inlet 21 of the end cover 20, thereby opening the first air inlet 21 to allow external air to enter the electronic atomization device 100; and, the sealing element 32 is driven to rotate around its central axis by the user by rotating the operating element 31 as shown by the arrow P11 in Figure 5. When rotated to the closed position, the avoidance gap 321 is staggered with the first air inlet 21 of the end cover 20, so that the first air inlet 21 is blocked or blocked by the sealing element 32, thereby closing the first air inlet 21.

[0086] In some embodiments, a first locking structure, such as a protrusion, is disposed on the sealing element 32; correspondingly, a second locking structure, such as a groove, may be provided on the end cap 20; when the sealing element 32 is in the open position / closed position that opens the first air inlet 21, the first locking structure couples to the second locking structure to form a connection to form a locked state, thereby stably maintaining the sealing element 32 in the open position and / or closed position to prevent the sealing element 32 from rotating between the open and closed positions. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the sealing element 32 can be operated by a user by pressing the operating element 31, causing the sealing element 32 to move in the longitudinal direction, thereby releasing the locked state formed by the connection between the first locking structure and the second locking structure in the open position and / or closed position, thereby allowing the sealing element 32 to rotate between the open and closed positions.

[0087] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a plurality of first limiting protrusions 23 extending in the longitudinal direction are arranged on the inner surface of the end cover 20; a second limiting protrusion 311 is arranged on the outer surface of the operating element 31; when the user drives the operating element 31 to rotate from the closed position to the open position, or from the open position to the closed position by means of a finger, a limit is formed by the abutment between the second limiting protrusion 311 and the first limiting protrusion 23, so as to limit the rotation angle of the operating element 31 during the rotation operation.

[0088] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the elastic element 33 is used to provide an elastic force to bias the sealing element 32 toward the sealing element 32 away from the proximal end 110, so that the sealing element 32 is driven to bias the sealing element 32 toward the locked state or maintain it in the locked state in the open position and / or the closed position. In the specific embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 5, the elastic element 33 includes a linear spring; and in assembly, the elastic element 33 elastically abuts between the end cap 20 and the operating element 31.

[0089] As shown in FIG3 to FIG5 , the electronic atomization device 100 further includes:

[0090] An air outlet 113 for the user to inhale; the air outlet 113 is located at the proximal end 110 of the housing 10 and is defined or formed by the first shell 11;

[0091] A liquid storage chamber 112 for storing a liquid matrix, and an atomizing assembly for drawing the liquid matrix from the liquid storage chamber 112 and heating and atomizing the liquid matrix. To facilitate vaporization and output, the liquid storage chamber 112 and the atomizing assembly are both arranged near the proximal end 110. The electronic atomizing device 100 also includes an aerosol output tube 111 arranged in the longitudinal direction, which extends at least partially within the liquid storage chamber 112, and the liquid storage chamber 112 is formed by the space between the aerosol output tube 111 and the inner surface of the housing 10 / first shell 111. The end of the aerosol output tube 111 relative to the proximal end 110 is connected to the air outlet 113 to output the aerosol generated by atomization of the atomizing assembly to the air outlet 113 for inhalation.

[0092] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the aerosol output tube 111 and the housing 10 / first shell 111 are integrally molded using a moldable material, and the liquid storage chamber 112 formed therefrom is closed on the side of the proximal end 110 and open on the side facing the distal end 120.

[0093] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, a first liquid-conducting element 51 is further provided in the housing 10 / first shell 111. The first liquid-conducting element 51 is a layer of sheet-like or block-like fibers arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing 10 / first shell 111. In some embodiments, the first liquid-conducting element 51 is made of a flexible capillary fiber material, such as natural cotton fiber, non-woven fiber, etc.; specifically, the first liquid-conducting element 51 includes sheet-like liquid-conducting cotton. Or in some other variations, the first liquid-conducting element 51 includes artificial cotton, or hard artificial cotton or artificial foam made of filamentous polyurethane. For example, the first liquid-conducting element 51 uses 138# hard synthetic organic polymer fiber with a viscosity of 0.1 to 0.9 mg / mm 3The density of the first liquid-conducting element 51 is approximately 0.04 to 0.06 g when not wetted with liquid. The first liquid-conducting element 51 is made of oriented fibers that are generally oriented along the length, width, or radial direction. The arrangement of the oriented fibers along the length or width of the first liquid-conducting element 51 provides the first liquid-conducting element 51 with a strong bending resistance and thus a hard property. Specifically, for example, the first liquid-conducting element 51 is a hard artificial cotton comprising oriented polyester fibers, or a hard artificial cotton or artificial foam made of filamentous polyurethane.

[0094] As shown in Figures 3 to 5 , the first liquid-conducting element 51 is housed and retained within the bracket 60. As shown in Figures 3 to 5 , the first liquid-conducting element 51 is adjacent to the upper surface of the liquid storage chamber 112 and is in fluid communication with the liquid storage chamber 112, thereby drawing liquid matrix. As shown in Figures 3 to 5 , the first liquid-conducting element 51 is configured in an annular shape.

[0095] As shown in Figures 3 to 6 , a tubular element 14 is further disposed within the housing 10 / first shell 11 . This tubular element 14 is a separate component, preferably made of a thin, rigid material. Suitable examples include ceramic tubes or stainless steel tubes. After axially extending through the first liquid-conducting element 51, the tubular element 14 connects to the aerosol delivery tube 111 with an interference fit, tight fit, or tight fit, securing the connection and forming a seal therebetween. After assembly, the first liquid-conducting element 51 is positioned around the tubular element 14.

[0096] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the atomizer assembly is housed and assembled in the tubular element 14. The tubular element 14 is provided with a plurality of perforations 141 spaced apart along the circumference. The atomizer assembly is in fluid communication with the first liquid-conducting element 51 through the perforations 141 to receive the liquid matrix. Referring to the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 5, the atomizer assembly includes a second liquid-conducting element 52. In some embodiments, the second liquid-conducting element 52 is flexible, for example, made of flexible fibers such as cotton fibers, non-woven fabrics, or sponges; or in other embodiments, the second liquid-conducting element 52 is rigid, for example, made of a rigid porous material, such as porous ceramics, porous glass, etc. In an embodiment, the second liquid-conducting element 52 is configured to be tubular or cylindrical and arranged in the longitudinal direction of the outer shell 10 / first shell 11; the second liquid-conducting element 52 is coaxial with the tubular element 14 and is located inside the tubular element 14. Alternatively, in some alternative embodiments, the second liquid-conducting element 52 may comprise a rigid porous element, such as porous ceramic or porous glass. In this embodiment, the radially outer surface of the second liquid-conducting element 52 covers the perforations 141 of the tubular element 14. Consequently, the outer surface of the second liquid-conducting element 52 is configured as a liquid-absorbing surface to receive and absorb the liquid matrix passing through the first liquid-conducting element 51 through the perforations 141. As indicated by arrow R1 in Figures 4 and 5, the liquid matrix within the liquid storage chamber 112 is absorbed through the upper surface of the first liquid-conducting element 51, then flows through the lower surface of the first liquid-conducting element 51 toward the perforations 141 of the tubular element 14, ultimately passing through the perforations 141 of the tubular element 14 and being absorbed by the second liquid-conducting element 52. The inner surface of the second liquid-conducting element 52 in the radial direction is configured as an atomizing surface, which is combined / fitted / abutted against the heating element 40; then, after the liquid matrix is ​​transferred to the atomizing surface, it is heated and atomized by the heating element 40 to generate aerosol and release it.

[0097] Referring to the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 6 , the heating element 40 is arranged to extend longitudinally along the second liquid-conducting element 52 and is coaxially arranged with the second liquid-conducting element 52. In some optional embodiments, the heating element 40 is a resistive heating mesh, a resistive heating coil, or the like. In this embodiment, the heating element 40 is wound around a sheet or mesh-like substrate; the wound heating element 40 is not a closed tubular shape in the circumferential direction, but rather a cylindrical shape with side openings along the longitudinal direction. Conductive pins are welded or arranged at both ends of the heating element 40 to conduct current through the heating element 40.

[0098] In some other variations, the heating element 40 may be bonded to the second liquid-conducting element 52 by printing, deposition, sintering, or physical assembly. In some other variations, the second liquid-conducting element 52 may have a flat surface or a curved surface for supporting the heating element 40, and the heating element 40 is formed on the flat surface or the curved surface of the second liquid-conducting element 52 by mounting, printing, deposition, or the like. Or in some other variations, the heating element 40 is a conductive track formed on the surface of the second liquid-conducting element 52. In some other variations, the conductive track of the heating element 40 may be in the form of a printed circuit formed by printing. In some other variations, the heating element 40 is a patterned conductive track. In some other variations, the heating element 40 is planar. In some other variations, the heating element 40 is a conductive track that extends in a circuitous, meandering, reciprocating, or bending manner.

[0099] 3 to 6 , the bracket 60 also provides support and fixation for the first liquid-conducting element 51 and the tubular element 14. The bracket 60 is generally cylindrical in shape and is rigid, for example, the bracket 60 is made of a hard polymer plastic.

[0100] 3 to 5 , the housing 10 is further provided with:

[0101] Retaining element 18 is positioned within second housing 12 and longitudinally between battery cell 70 and bracket 60. Retaining element 18 is configured to support and retain resilient electrical contacts 17 and at least partially surround and retain battery cell 70. As shown in Figures 3 to 5 , retaining element 18 is generally annular and arranged longitudinally along second housing 12. In some embodiments, retaining element 18 is rigid, for example, made of an organic polymer plastic.

[0102] After assembly, at least a portion of the retaining element 18 extends into the bracket 60 and supports the airflow sensor 15 and / or the partition 16 mounted in the bracket 60 .

[0103] As shown in FIG3 to FIG5 , the electronic atomization device 100 further includes:

[0104] The elastic conductive element 17 is mounted and retained on the retaining element 18. In some embodiments, the elastic conductive element 17 and the retaining element 18 are integrally manufactured by metal insert injection molding or in-mold injection molding, so that they are firmly combined. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the elastic conductive element 17 and the retaining element 18 are firmly combined by a mechanical connection; for example, the retaining element 18 is provided with a clamping opening, groove, or other fastening structure for clamping or fastening the conductive element 17, and the conductive element 17 is firmly retained on the retaining element 18. In some embodiments, the elastic conductive element 17 comprises a metal or alloy with low resistivity; for example, the conductive element 17 comprises gold, silver, copper, or an alloy thereof.

[0105] In some embodiments, the elastic conductive element 17 is formed by bending a sheet or a conductor precursor; in some embodiments, the elastic conductive element 17 has a meandering shape; in some embodiments, the elastic conductive element 17 is formed by meandering a copper sheet. In some embodiments, the meandering conductive element 17 has an approximately S-shaped shape; in other embodiments, the meandering conductive element 17 has an approximately U-shaped shape. In some embodiments, the elastic conductive element 17 defines at least one bend-forming recess; the retaining element 18 is embedded in or snapped into at least one recess.

[0106] After assembly, the battery cell 70 elastically rests against the conductive element 17, thereby forming an electrical connection. Furthermore, the airflow sensor 15 is welded or electrically connected to the conductive element 17, thereby forming an electrical connection. Furthermore, after assembly, the conductive element 17 at least partially serves to conduct current between the battery cell 70 and the airflow sensor 15 / heating element 40.

[0107] 3 to 6 , the airflow sensor 15 is, for example, a microphone sensor or a MEMS sensor, etc. The airflow sensor 15 is substantially cylindrical in shape, and the axis of the airflow sensor 15 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device 100 .

[0108] 3 to 6 , the bracket 60 is generally arranged to extend longitudinally along the electronic atomization device 100; the bracket 60 has a first end facing or close to the liquid storage chamber 112, and a second end away from the first end; the bracket 60 is basically a cylindrical shape extending from the first end to the second end. The bracket 60 is rigid, for example, the bracket 60 is made of a hard polymer plastic. As shown in FIG6 to FIG6 , in some embodiments, the bracket 60 includes a first support portion 610, a second support portion 620, and a third support portion 630 arranged in sequence along the longitudinal direction; wherein the third support portion 630 is connected to the retaining element 18 by mechanical connection or fastening.

[0109] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, after assembly, the first support portion 610 surrounds the first liquid-conducting element 51. The first support portion 610 has an interference fit with the housing 10 / first shell 11 near the liquid storage chamber 112. A sealing ring, such as an O-ring, is arranged around the outside of the first support portion 610 to provide a seal between the first support portion 610 and the housing 10 / first shell 11. As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the third support portion 630 establishes a mechanical connection and an interference fit with the housing 10 / first shell 11; and a sealing ring, such as an O-ring, is arranged outside the third support portion 630 to provide a seal between the third support portion 630 and the housing 10 / first shell 11. Furthermore, the retaining element 18 at least partially extends into the third support portion 630 and establishes a mechanical connection with the third support portion 630.

[0110] As shown in Figures 3 to 6 , the second support portion 620 of the bracket 60 is further provided with a plurality of flanges 621 circumferentially surrounding the second support portion 620, with grooves defined between adjacent flanges 621. As shown in Figures 3 to 6 , the flanges 621 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the bracket 60 between the sealing ring outside the first support portion 610 and the sealing ring outside the third support portion 630.

[0111] In the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 6, the first accommodating cavity 611 includes a first section 6111 and a second section 6112 arranged sequentially along the longitudinal direction. The first section 6111 is located near the first end of the bracket 60 and has an inclined conical or wide-mouthed inner surface. The second section 6112 is cylindrical with a substantially constant diameter. In this embodiment, the first liquid-conducting element 51 is accommodated and retained within the second section 6112 of the first accommodating cavity 611. The first liquid-conducting element 51 avoids the conical first section 6111, and liquid within the liquid reservoir 112 of the conical first section 6111 is directed to the upper surface of the first liquid-conducting element 51 for absorption. In this embodiment, after assembly, the first liquid-conducting element 51 and the first end of the bracket 60 are not flush, for example, with a spacing of approximately 5 to 10 mm between them as shown in Figure 6.

[0112] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, a second accommodating cavity 627 is defined in the second support portion 620 for at least partially installing and accommodating the tubular element 14 and the atomizer assembly. Specifically, after assembly, the tubular element 14 is at least partially inserted into the second accommodating cavity 627 of the bracket 60 after passing through the first accommodating cavity 611; and, a seal is formed between the tubular element 14 and the bracket 60 through an interference fit. In addition, there is no flexible sealing element between the tubular element 14 and the bracket 60. The first end of the bracket 60 is open, or has a first opening; the first liquid-guiding element 51 is received in the first accommodating cavity 611 from the first end through the first opening; and / or, the tubular element 14 and / or the atomizer assembly passes through the first accommodating cavity 611 from the first end through the first opening to be received in the second accommodating cavity 627.

[0113] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the third support portion 630 of the bracket 60 is further provided with:

[0114] The third accommodating chamber 631 is used to accommodate or install the airflow sensor 15 and the partition 16. The airflow sensor 15 is accommodated and installed in the third accommodating chamber 631 of the bracket 60, and is arranged away from the liquid storage chamber 112. In the embodiments of Figures 3 to 6, the airflow sensor 15 is in the shape of a sheet, a disk, or a column; the axis of the airflow sensor 15 is arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the bracket 60. The partition 16 is flexible, for example, made of silicone or thermoplastic elastomer, and wraps the airflow sensor 15. As shown in Figures 3 to 7, the partition 16 is provided with at least one second air inlet 161 running through it in the longitudinal direction for allowing air to pass through the partition 16. In the embodiments of Figures 3 to 6, the airflow sensor 15 is arranged away from the longitudinal center axis of the electronic atomization device 100; for example, in Figures 4 and 5, the airflow sensor 15 is arranged close to the left side.

[0115] As shown in Figures 3 to 6 , an airflow channel is arranged within the electronic atomization device 100, defining an airflow path from the first air inlet 21 through the atomization assembly to the air outlet 113, thereby delivering the aerosol to the air outlet 113 for inhalation by the user. The airflow channel within the electronic atomization device 100 is defined by multiple components, as shown by arrow R2 in Figures 3 to 6 .

[0116] As shown in FIG6 , the bracket 60 is provided with:

[0117] The first channel portion 623 extends from the third accommodating cavity 631 to the outer surface of the second supporting portion 620 of the bracket 60 and defines a communication opening 624 on the outer surface of the second supporting portion 620;

[0118] The second channel portion 625 extends from the outer surface of the second support portion 620 into the second accommodating cavity 627. Thus, during inhalation, the airflow path through the bracket 60 is shown by arrow R2 in FIG6 : air enters the third accommodating cavity 631 through the first channel portion 623 to the outer surface of the second support portion 620, flows around the bracket 60 in the groove on the outer surface of the second support portion 620, and then flows into the second channel portion 625. Then, air enters the second accommodating cavity 627 through the second channel portion 625 and is discharged carrying the aerosol generated by the atomizer assembly.

[0119] The complete airflow path of the electronic atomization device 100 during inhalation is shown by the arrow R2 in Figures 3 to 6. When the sealing element 32 of the operating mechanism 30 moves to the open position, the external air entering from the first air inlet 21 passes through the gap between the battery cell 70 and the shell 10 and the retaining element 18 in sequence and enters the third accommodating cavity 631 of the bracket 60; then passes through the second air inlet 161 of the partition 16 and flows into the first channel part 623, and then flows to the second channel part 625 through the groove on the surface of the bracket 60; finally, it enters the tubular element 14 from the second channel part 625, and carries the aerosol generated by the atomization component from the aerosol output tube 111 to the air outlet 113.

[0120] In Figures 6 to 9, the second air inlet 161 is a through hole passing through the partition 16; or in some other variant embodiments, the second air inlet 161 is a groove located on the outer surface of the partition 16; after the partition 16 is assembled in the bracket 60, the second air inlet 161 is jointly defined by the groove on the surface of the partition 16 and the bracket 60.

[0121] As shown in Figures 6 to 9 , the divider 16 is generally cylindrical in shape, conforming to the cross-section of the third accommodating cavity 631 of the bracket 60. Furthermore, after assembly, a distance d1 is defined between the divider 16 and the top wall of the third accommodating cavity 631 in the longitudinal direction of the bracket 60, with the distance d1 being approximately 3 to 5 mm. Furthermore, a distance d2 is defined between the divider 16 and the second end of the bracket 60, with the distance d2 being approximately 4 to 8 mm. As shown in Figures 6 to 9 , the second air inlet 161 of the divider 16 has a first port 1611 and a second port 1612 facing each other. The first port 1611 is an air outlet port, adjacent to and connected to the air outlet 113; the second port 1612 is an air inlet port, adjacent to and connected to the first air inlet 21.

[0122] In order to enable the airflow sensor 15 to accurately sense the airflow passing through the electronic atomization device 100 during the user's inhalation, the airflow sensor 15 includes a first sensing surface 151 and a second sensing surface 152 that are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device 100. The partition 16 wraps the airflow sensor 15 in the circumferential direction, and exposes the first sensing surface 151 and the second sensing surface 152. In an embodiment, the first sensing surface 151 and the second sensing surface 152 are isolated from each other. The first sensing surface 151 is connected to the first port 1611 of the second air inlet 161 through the space defined by the spacing d1; and the second sensing surface 152 is connected to the second port 1612 of the second air inlet 161 through the space defined by the spacing d2.

[0123] The first sensing surface 151 and the second sensing surface 152 of the airflow sensor 15 are connected via the second air inlet 161. When used for inhalation, the pressure drop sensed by the first sensing surface 151 is greater than the pressure drop sensed by the second sensing surface 152. When the difference between the pressure drops on the first and second sensing surfaces 151, 152 caused by the inhaled airflow exceeds a preset threshold, the airflow sensor 15 determines the user's inhalation and outputs a trigger signal. Based on the trigger signal from the airflow sensor 15, the electronic atomization device 100 controls the battery cell 70 to output power to the heating element 40 to atomize the liquid and generate an aerosol. Furthermore, when a user inhales while the first air inlet 21 is blocked or closed by the sealing element 32 of the operating mechanism 30, no air flow is generated through the electronic atomization device 100. While the inhalation resistance is high, the pressures sensed by the first and second sensing surfaces 151, 152 of the airflow sensor 15 decrease substantially synchronously and are equal, and the airflow sensor 15 cannot be triggered.

[0124] As shown in Figure 5 , airflow sensor 15 is positioned away from distal end 120. Specifically, first sensing surface 151 faces proximal end 110 and is spaced a first distance d11 from proximal end 110. Second sensing surface 152 faces distal end 120 and is spaced a second distance d12 from distal end 120. Second distance d12 is greater than first distance d11. Accordingly, airflow sensor 15 is positioned relatively closer to proximal end 110.

[0125] In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG7 , the cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet 161 varies. In FIG7 , at least a portion of the second air inlet 161 is tapered, with the cross-sectional area of ​​at least a portion of the second air inlet 161 decreasing toward the first port 1611. This creates turbulent flow when air flows through the second air inlet 161 during suction, which is beneficial for increasing the pressure difference between the first sensing surface 151 and the second sensing surface 152. Alternatively, in yet other embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet 161 may be constant.

[0126] In the embodiments shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 , the number of the second air inlets 161 is two; or in some other variations, the number of the second air inlet 161 may be only one or more.

[0127] In some other embodiments, the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet 161 determines the draw resistance and the pressure drop difference formed during the suction, that is, the cross-sectional area of ​​the minimum aperture 1613 of the second air inlet 161 in FIG7 . In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the minimum aperture 1613 of the second air inlet 161 is between 0.8 and 2.3 mm. 2 In some more preferred embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the minimum aperture 1613 of the second air inlet 161 is between 1.0 and 2.26 mm. 2 The table below shows the relationship between the cross-sectional area of ​​the minimum aperture 1613 of the second air inlet 161, the draw resistance during inhalation, and the pressure difference across the airflow sensor 15 in various embodiments, which is beneficial for triggering the airflow sensor 15 while maintaining appropriate draw resistance.

[0128] In some embodiments, the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet 161 is such that the pressure drop caused by the flow through the second air inlet 161 during use can drive the airflow sensor 15 to start; preferably, the second air inlet 161 is arranged to form an air pressure difference between 100Pa and 600Pa during use.

[0129] In some embodiments, the area of ​​the first air inlet 21 is greater than 1.5 times the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet 161. In some preferred embodiments, the area of ​​the first air inlet 21 is greater than 2.5 times the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet 161; or, the area of ​​the first air inlet 21 is greater than 3.5 times the minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet 161. In some preferred embodiments, the area of ​​the first air inlet 21 is approximately 4 to 10 mm. 2 .

[0130] As shown in FIG. 4 to FIG. 9 , the complete airflow channel passing through the electronic atomization device 100 includes:

[0131] The first portion between the first air inlet 21 and the second port 1612 of the second air inlet 161 is primarily defined by the gap between the battery cell 70 and the second housing 12 ;

[0132] The second portion between the first port 1611 of the second air inlet 161 and the air outlet 113 is mainly defined by the bracket 60 and the aerosol output tube 111. In an embodiment, the average cross-sectional area of ​​the second portion is smaller than the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first portion.

[0133] In some embodiments, the length of the second air inlet 161 is about 5 to 12 mm. That is, the partition 16 has a thickness of about 5 to 12 mm.

[0134] 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 electronic atomization device, characterized in that: include: A liquid storage chamber, used for storing a liquid matrix; a heating element for heating the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol; a first air inlet, an air outlet, and an air flow channel between the first air inlet and the air outlet; the air flow channel is arranged to define an air flow path from the first air inlet via the heating element to the air outlet to transfer the aerosol to the air outlet; a partition member, dividing the airflow channel into a first portion located on a first side of the partition member and a second portion located on a second side of the partition member; a second gas inlet, gas connecting the first part and the second part; An airflow sensor is used to sense the airflow flowing through the airflow channel; the airflow sensor includes a first sensing surface and a second sensing surface respectively arranged in the first part and the second part and opposite to each other, and the first sensing surface is connected to the airflow through the second air inlet and the second sensing surface.

2. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A cross-sectional area of ​​the first air inlet is greater than a minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet.

3. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The minimum cross-sectional area of ​​the second air inlet is between 0.8 mm 2 ~2.3mm 2 .

4. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The cross-sectional area of ​​at least part of the second air inlet decreases along the air flow direction.

5. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The second air inlet is arranged such that a pressure drop caused when in use can drive the sensor to start.

6. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: a movable sealing element arranged to be movable between a closed position and an open position, The first air inlet is selectively closed at the closed position and opened at the open position.

7. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The axis of the airflow sensor is substantially parallel to the longitudinal arrangement of the electronic atomization device; And / or, the first sensing surface and the second sensing surface are arranged opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device; And / or, the airflow sensor is arranged away from the longitudinal center axis of the electronic atomization device.

8. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: A proximal end and a distal end facing each other in the longitudinal direction; the air outlet is arranged at the proximal end, and the first air inlet is arranged at the distal end; The distance between the airflow sensor and the proximal end is smaller than the distance between the airflow sensor and the distal end.

9. The electronic atomization device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The heating element is arranged between the air outlet and the partition.

10. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: A battery cell, used for providing electric power; along the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device, the battery cell and the liquid storage chamber are arranged at intervals; The airflow sensor is located between the battery core and the liquid storage chamber; or the airflow sensor is located between the first air inlet and the battery core.

11. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: A bracket for accommodating or holding the heating element; The airflow sensor and the partition are accommodated or held in the bracket and are arranged away from the liquid storage chamber.

12. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The second air inlet is a through hole on the partition; and / or at least a portion of an inner surface of the second air inlet is defined by the partition.

13. The electronic atomization device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The partition wraps a portion of the surface of the airflow sensor and avoids or exposes at least a portion of the first sensing surface and the second sensing surface.

14. An electronic atomization device, characterized in that: include: A liquid storage chamber, used for storing a liquid matrix; a heating element for heating the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol; A first air inlet, an air outlet, and an air flow channel located between the first air inlet and the air outlet; The air flow channel is arranged to define an air flow path from the first air inlet via the heating element to the air outlet to deliver aerosol to the air outlet; An airflow sensor comprises a first sensing surface and a second sensing surface opposite to each other, and senses a difference between a pressure sensed by the first sensing surface and a pressure sensed by the second sensing surface; a partition wrapping a portion of the airflow sensor and exposing or avoiding the first sensing surface and the second sensing surface; the airflow channel includes at least one second air inlet passing through the partition; The first sensing surface and the second sensing surface of the airflow sensor are in airflow communication via the at least one second air inlet.

15. An electronic atomization device, characterized in that: include: A liquid storage chamber, used for storing a liquid matrix; a heating element for heating the liquid matrix to generate an aerosol; A battery cell, used to supply power to the heating element; a first air inlet, and an air flow channel between the first air inlet and the air outlet; the air flow channel is arranged to define an air flow path from the first air inlet via the heating element to the air outlet to transfer the aerosol to the air outlet; An airflow sensor is used to sense changes in the airflow flowing through the electronic atomization device; In the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device, the airflow sensor is arranged between the heating element and the battery core; the airflow sensor includes a first sensing surface and a second sensing surface opposite to each other along the longitudinal direction of the electronic atomization device; the first sensing surface is connected to the airflow at the air outlet, and the second sensing surface is connected to the airflow at the first air inlet.

Citation Information

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