Induction-Heated Aerosol Generation for Particle Size Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerosol generating systems struggle to produce aerosols with optimal particle sizes and densities, which affect user satisfaction and experience.
Innovation Solution
An aerosol generating system utilizing an induction heater to heat aerosol generating materials with a nicotine content between 5mg/g and 15mg/g to at least 150°C, achieving a mean particle or droplet size of less than about 1000 nm under an airflow of at least 1.50L/m, using a susceptor and inductive heating for rapid and controlled temperature profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a liquid jet is used to generate aerosol, then aerosol can be generated without direct heating of the liquid, but the liquid may still be heated by the surrounding environment causing uncontrolled temperature rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gas stream as an intermediary medium that carries the liquid from the reservoir to the aerosol generation zone. This gas stream acts as a heat isolator, preventing direct thermal contact between the liquid and heated surfaces, thereby maintaining temperature control while ensuring consistent aerosol generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pneumatic principles by using a gas stream to transport and atomize the liquid. The gas flow dynamics control the liquid delivery and aerosol formation processes, enabling temperature-controlled aerosol generation through fluid mechanical means rather than direct thermal heating.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If conventional aerosol generation methods are used, then aerosol can be produced, but harmful substances may be generated due to overheating or contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates an inert environment by using a controlled gas stream that prevents contamination and oxidation of the liquid during transport and atomization. This inert atmosphere eliminates harmful chemical reactions that could occur with conventional heating methods, ensuring safe aerosol generation without compromising productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces thermal heating mechanisms with mechanical pneumatic atomization. Instead of using heat to vaporize or aerosolize the liquid, the system uses gas flow dynamics and mechanical forces to break the liquid into fine droplets, eliminating the harmful effects of overheating while maintaining efficient aerosol production.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If aerosol is generated for extended periods, then continuous supply is achieved, but reservoir liquid may become contaminated or depleted
Solution Approach 1:
The gas stream serves as a continuous intermediary that delivers fresh liquid from the reservoir to the aerosol generation zone without allowing the liquid to stagnate or become contaminated in the reservoir. This intermediary transport mechanism enables extended operation while maintaining liquid quality and aerosol consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system design allows the liquid reservoir to remain stationary and uncontaminated while the gas stream continuously draws and transports liquid as needed. The liquid essentially serves itself by being passively transported through the inert gas stream, enabling long-duration operation without compromising reliability or requiring frequent maintenance.
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
The system effectively generates aerosols with controlled particle sizes and densities, enhancing user satisfaction by improving mouth feel and inhalation experience.
Implementation Method 1
The aerosol generating particles are mixed with a liquid stream and atomized to form an aerosol
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an aerosol generating system comprising (i) an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating material, the aerosol generating material comprising nicotine and an aerosol generating agent, and (ii) an aerosol generating device comprising an induction heater; wherein during operation, the article is inserted into the device and an aerosol is generated by using the induction heater to heat the aerosol generating material to at least 150°C; wherein (i) the mean particle or droplet size in the generated aerosol is less than about 1000 nm in an aerosol generated under an airflow of at least 1.50L/m during a two-second period, and/or (ii) wherein the aerosol density generated during a two-second period under an airflow of at least 1.50L/m during the period, is at least 0.1 µg/cc.