Susceptor Assembly for Aerosol Generating Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aerosol generating devices face inefficiencies in heat transfer and airflow due to the design of traditional susceptor structures, which can lead to reduced heating efficiency and suboptimal aerosol delivery.
Innovation Solution
A susceptor assembly comprising a first ring and a second ring with multiple susceptors extending between them, providing structural support and minimizing contact with the heating chamber walls, allowing for improved heat distribution and airflow by positioning the susceptors away from the chamber walls and optimizing the susceptor configuration for efficient heat transfer and aerosol generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional susceptor structures are used, then the device structure is simple, but the heating efficiency is reduced and heat loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The susceptor is divided into multiple discrete susceptor elements (first susceptor, second susceptor, third susceptor, fourth susceptor) arranged in a segmented pattern around the heating chamber. This segmentation allows each element to be positioned optimally for heat transfer to the aerosol generating substrate while preventing excessive heat loss to the chamber walls, thereby reducing overall heat loss without creating a overly complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The susceptor elements are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration extending along the longitudinal axis of the heating chamber, rather than a simple flat or radial arrangement. This dimensional change allows the susceptors to contact the aerosol generating substrate at multiple points and angles, improving heating efficiency while the spaced-apart configuration minimizes heat loss to chamber walls.
2Productivity
If susceptors are positioned close to heating chamber walls, then heat transfer to substrate is maximized, but airflow into the chamber is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The susceptor elements are positioned to contact or closely approach the aerosol generating substrate at specific locations where heat transfer is most needed, while maintaining spacing from the heating chamber walls. This local optimization ensures efficient heating at the substrate-susceptor interface without compromising the airflow pathways between the susceptors and chamber walls.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented susceptor arrangement creates multiple discrete heating zones rather than a continuous heat source. The gaps between segmented elements allow airflow to pass through the heating chamber more effectively, delivering oxygen and other gases to the substrate while maintaining efficient heat transfer at the contact points between susceptors and substrate.
3Loss of energy
If a single susceptor structure is used, then manufacturing is simple, but heat distribution to substrate is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The susceptor assembly consists of multiple discrete susceptor elements (first, second, third, and fourth susceptors) that can be manufactured separately using standard processes, then assembled into the heating chamber. This segmentation enables optimized heat distribution to the aerosol generating substrate from multiple directions and positions, improving heating efficiency while allowing each element to be manufactured with simpler, more cost-effective methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple susceptor elements serve multiple functions simultaneously: they conduct electromagnetic energy from the induction coil, transfer heat to the aerosol generating substrate, and maintain structural integrity within the heating chamber. This multi-functionality achieves superior heat distribution without requiring complex manufacturing for each individual component.
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 configuration enhances heating efficiency by delivering more heat to the aerosol generating substrate while minimizing heat loss and improving airflow, resulting in a more efficient aerosol generation and delivery process.
Implementation Method 1
an induction coil is provided in the device and an inductively heatable susceptor is provided to heat the aerosol generating substrate. Electrical energy is supplied to the induction coil when a user activates the device which in turn generates an alternating electromagnetic field. The susceptor couples with the electromagnetic field and generates heat which is transferred, for example by conduction, to the aerosol generating substrate
Implementation Method 2
heat the aerosol generating substrate by conduction, convention, and/or radiation to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user
Implementation Method 3
Heating the aerosol generating substrate to a temperature within this range, without burning or combusting the aerosol generating substrate, generates a vapour which typically cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user
Data Source
AI summary
A heating apparatus for an aerosol generating device includes: a heating chamber for receiving an aerosol generating substrate; and a susceptor assembly including a first ring and a second ring and a plurality of susceptors held between the first and second rings. An aerosol generating system includes the heating apparatus in combination with an aerosol generating article.