Induction Heater Side Opening for Heating Element Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerosol-generating devices with induction heaters lack easy access for cleaning and replacement of the heating element, leading to residue buildup that impairs functionality.
Innovation Solution
An aerosol-generating device with an induction coil featuring a side opening along its longitudinal length, allowing for access and removal of the heating element for cleaning and replacement, and a housing with a corresponding side opening for protection and easy insertion/removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the induction coil is designed as a closed structure, then the heating element is protected and structurally stable, but access for cleaning and replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The induction coil is segmented into two parts: a closed portion that provides structural stability and protection, and an open portion that allows access to the heating element for cleaning and replacement. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by dividing the coil structure into functional zones.
Solution Approach 2:
Access to the heating element is provided through a lateral opening in the induction coil wall, rather than requiring top or bottom access. This dimensional change allows cleaning tools to reach the heating element from the side while maintaining the closed structure's protective function.
2Reliability
If the heating element is made removable for cleaning, then residue buildup is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is designed as a separate, removable component that can be detached from the induction coil for cleaning. This segmentation allows the heating element to be maintained independently without affecting the overall device structure significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating element is extracted as a removable component from the induction coil assembly, allowing it to be taken out for cleaning and inspection. This extraction enables maintenance while keeping the insertion and removal mechanisms simple.
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
Facilitates effective cleaning and replacement of the heating element, preventing residue buildup and ensuring consistent aerosol generation, while also allowing for user verification of consumable placement and providing an integrated solution for air inlet and cleaning tool access.
Implementation Method 1
A high-frequency AC current is passed through the induction coil. As a result, an alternating magnetic field is created within the induction coil. The alternating magnetic field penetrates the heating element thereby creating eddy currents within the heating element. These currents lead to a heating of the heating element.
Implementation Method 2
The alternating magnetic field penetrates the heating element thereby creating eddy currents within the heating element. These currents lead to a heating of the heating element.
Implementation Method 3
In addition to heat generated by eddy currents, the alternating magnetic field may also cause the susceptor to heat due to the hysteresis mechanism.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to an aerosol-generating device, comprising an induction heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate. The induction heater comprises an induction coil and a heating element, wherein the heating element is arrangeable within the induction coil. The induction coil comprises a side opening along the longitudinal length of the induction coil. The side opening is configured for enabling an access to the heating element. The aerosol-generating device further comprises a housing, wherein the induction coil is arranged within the housing, and wherein the housing comprises a side opening which corresponds to the side opening of the induction coil within the housing.