Dynamic Heating Profile for Aerosol Generation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerosol-generating devices face inefficiencies in aerosol extraction due to thermal profiles based on idealized usage sessions, which can lead to suboptimal aerosol quality when real-life usage patterns deviate from these assumptions.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating an aerosol-generating device that dynamically adjusts the target operating temperature of the heater based on both the cumulative value of user interaction parameters, such as puffs, and the time elapsed from a trigger event, allowing for real-time optimization of aerosol generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed thermal profile based on idealized usage session is used, then the device operation is simple, but aerosol extraction efficiency deteriorates when real usage patterns deviate from the idealization
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal profile is transformed from a fixed, idealized curve into a dynamic, adaptive system that automatically adjusts heating temperature based on real-time puff detection. The controller modifies the thermal profile parameters (temperature, heating rate) according to actual usage patterns, enabling the system to adapt to varying puff rates and durations while maintaining optimal aerosol generation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring puff detection signals and using this information to adjust the thermal profile in real-time. The controller receives feedback about actual usage patterns (puff count, timing, duration) and modifies the heating parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that optimizes aerosol extraction efficiency based on real user behavior rather than relying on idealized assumptions.
2Reliability
If the usage session duration is limited to prevent low quality aerosol from depleted substrate, then aerosol quality is maintained, but the duration of action is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically extends or adjusts the usage session duration based on real-time monitoring of substrate depletion indicators and puff patterns. Rather than using a fixed time limit, the controller adapts the session duration to actual usage conditions, allowing extended usage when substrate remains adequately depleted and terminating earlier when quality deteriorates, thus optimizing both duration and quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from puff detection and substrate temperature monitoring to intelligently manage usage session duration. The controller continuously assesses whether the substrate is sufficiently depleted based on actual usage patterns and terminates the session accordingly, rather than relying on predetermined time limits. This feedback mechanism maintains aerosol quality while maximizing usable duration.
3Productivity
If thermal profile increases target temperature in second half of usage session to extract remaining volatile compounds, then aerosol extraction efficiency improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal profile is dynamically adjusted based on actual usage patterns rather than following a predetermined increasing temperature curve. The controller monitors puff detection and substrate temperature in real-time, modifying heating power to match actual extraction needs. This prevents unnecessary energy consumption during periods when the substrate is already sufficiently depleted or when usage patterns indicate lower extraction demands.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control for temperature regulation, continuously monitoring substrate temperature and puff detection signals to adjust heating power accordingly. Rather than blindly increasing temperature in the second half of the session, the controller responds to actual extraction needs detected through feedback, maintaining optimal temperature only when volatile compounds are being actively extracted and reducing power when extraction is complete or insufficient.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables more efficient aerosol extraction from the aerosol-forming substrate, regardless of the user's puffing rate, thereby maintaining aerosol quality and enhancing the user experience.
Implementation Method 1
An aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid substrate... volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heat transfer from the heat source
Implementation Method 2
As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol that is inhaled by the consumer
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating an aerosol-generating device for generating aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate is provided, the device including a power supply to supply power to a heater to control temperature of the heater during a usage session, and control electronics, the method including: determining a target operating temperature for the heater, the temperature determined with reference to a cumulative value of a user interaction parameter monitored during the usage session and time elapsed from a trigger event; and using the target operating temperature to control temperature of the heater, the target operating temperature being determined to have an initial value on detection of the trigger event, and the target operating temperature varying from the initial value at a first rate of change during a first period of the time elapsed, and at a second rate of change, different from the first rate of change, during a second period of the time elapsed.