Detachable Heater Module with Integrated Circuit for Durability Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In aerosol generating devices with detachable heater modules, users face challenges in determining the exact replacement time for the heater module, as the durability of the heater module is not easily identifiable, leading to potential unnecessary replacement and waste.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an integrated circuit within the heater module that counts operations and stores data in a nonvolatile memory, allowing for accurate determination of the heater module's durability by comparing the operation count with a preset threshold, and preventing excessive use by disconnecting power when the threshold is exceeded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the heater module is made detachable to enable individual replacement, then the heater module can be replaced independently from the cartridge, but the user cannot easily check the durability status of the heater module leading to unnecessary replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated circuit continuously monitors the operation count of the heater module and provides feedback to the processor. The processor then provides feedback to the user through display or notification, enabling the user to know the exact durability status and replacement timing of the heater module, thus preventing unnecessary replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated circuit acts as an intermediary between the heater module and the user. It counts the operations and stores this data in nonvolatile memory, then communicates this information to the processor which displays it to the user, bridging the gap between the heater's internal state and user awareness.
2Productivity
If the heater module operates beyond its durability threshold, then more operations can be performed, but the reliability and performance of the heater module deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated circuit preset a threshold value corresponding to the durability limit of the heater module. Before the heater actually fails, the system proactively notifies the user when the operation count approaches this threshold, allowing the user to replace the heater module in advance and avoid reliability issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system takes preliminary action to prevent the harmful effect of operating beyond durability. By monitoring the operation count and comparing it with the preset threshold, the system prevents excessive use that would compromise reliability, potentially by disabling further operations or strongly alerting the user to replace the module.
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
Ensures accurate replacement timing for the heater module, reducing waste by preventing use beyond its durability and notifying users when replacement is necessary, thus optimizing component lifespan and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
the integrated circuit includes a nonvolatile memory for storing the counted number of operations
Implementation Method 2
a heater configured to heat an aerosol generating material
Data Source
AI summary
An aerosol generating device includes: a main body including a processor and a battery; a heater module detachably coupled to the main body and including a heater configured to heat an aerosol generating material; and a cartridge detachably coupled to the heater module and storing the aerosol generating material to be delivered to the heater, wherein the heater module includes an integrated circuit electrically connected to the processor when the heater module is coupled to the main body.