Temperature-Responsive Helical Gripper for Aerosol Article Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerosol generating devices face issues with securely holding aerosol generating articles in the heating compartment, leading to potential dropping or extraction during use, which affects heating efficiency and battery performance.
Innovation Solution
A gripper mechanism using a shape-memory alloy with a helical coil that changes configuration based on temperature, securely holding the article from disengaged to engaged positions, ensuring the article remains in place throughout the vaping session.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional holding mechanism is used in the heating compartment, then the aerosol generating article can be initially held, but it becomes loose and drops out during vaping session as the substrate vapourises
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper mechanism transitions from a static holding structure to a dynamic temperature-responsive system. The shape-memory alloy gripper automatically adjusts its engagement state based on heating compartment temperature: disengaged at lower temperatures for easy insertion, and engaged at operating temperatures for secure retention during vaping sessions.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripper utilizes temperature as the controlling parameter to change its physical configuration. Below the transition temperature, the alloy maintains a relaxed state for easy article handling. Above the transition temperature, the alloy transforms to an engaged state that securely holds the article, leveraging thermal parameter changes to solve the retention problem.
2Productivity
If the aerosol generating article is not securely held, then ease of insertion is maintained, but heating efficiency decreases due to air gaps between the article and heater
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper mechanism performs the dual function of article retention and heating optimization without external control. The shape-memory alloy automatically engages with the article when temperature rises, eliminating air gaps and optimizing heat transfer, while requiring no additional actuators or control systems.
3Reliability
If the gripper diameter is large to accommodate article expansion, then article retention is secure, but the gripper cannot accommodate article contraction during vaping
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper diameter dynamically adjusts in response to temperature changes. At operating temperatures, the shape-memory alloy contracts to a smaller diameter that securely grips the vapourized article. The gripper automatically expands when temperature drops, allowing easy removal of the article from the heating compartment.
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 gripper mechanism effectively prevents article displacement, maintains heating efficiency, and enhances battery performance by ensuring consistent contact with the heater, while optimizing cooling efficiency and reducing device size.
Implementation Method 1
the gripper comprises a shape-memory alloy, wherein below a transition temperature the shape-memory alloy has a first configuration defining the disengaged position and at or above the transition temperature the shape-memory alloy has a second configuration defining the engaged position
Implementation Method 2
heating an aerosol generating substrate to a temperature typically in the range 150° C. to 300° C., in a heating compartment
Implementation Method 3
generates a vapour which typically cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the device
Data Source
AI summary
An aerosol generating device includes a heating assembly with a heating compartment. The device further includes a gripper mechanism to engage an aerosol generating article including an aerosol generating substrate in the compartment based on the temperature of the compartment. The gripper mechanism includes a gripper moveable between disengaged and engaged positions based on the temperature of the compartment. In the disengaged position, an aerosol generating article can be received into and removed from the gripper and in the engaged position the gripper is configured to engage an aerosol generating article. The gripper includes a shape-memory alloy. Below a transition temperature the alloy has a first configuration defining the disengaged position and at or above the transition temperature the alloy has a second configuration defining the engaged position. The first configuration includes a first helical coil of greater diameter than a second helical coil of the second configuration.