Aerosol Generating Device with Thermistor-Tracked Induction Heating
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerosol generating devices struggle to accurately control the heating of aerosol generating materials to consistently produce aerosols with optimal characteristics for inhalation, leading to variations in user experience.
Innovation Solution
An aerosol generating device with a frequency generating circuit that adjusts the operating frequency to match the changing resonant frequency of a parallel RLC circuit by using a thermistor or digital potentiometer to track temperature changes, ensuring efficient heating through a switching circuit and oscillating circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed frequency oscillating circuit is used for induction heating, then the device structure is simple, but the heating efficiency varies as resonant frequency changes with temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the oscillating frequency adjustable rather than fixed. The frequency generating circuit responds to changes in resonant frequency (caused by temperature changes in the susceptor) and dynamically adjusts the driving frequency to maintain optimal heating efficiency throughout the vaping session.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the frequency generating circuit that monitors changes in the RLC circuit's resonant frequency and adjusts the driving frequency accordingly. This closed-loop approach ensures the system operates at peak efficiency despite temperature variations during use.
2Loss of energy
If the oscillating frequency is adjusted to track resonant frequency changes, then heating efficiency is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing a frequency generating circuit that automatically detects and responds to resonant frequency changes without requiring external intervention or complex control systems. The circuit self-adjusts the driving frequency based on the thermal state of the susceptor, maintaining efficiency autonomously.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple fixed frequency oscillator is used, then the device is cost-effective, but aerosol generation consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by implementing a dynamically adjustable frequency oscillator that adapts to temperature changes. This maintains consistent aerosol generation throughout the vaping session while keeping the overall device design cost-effective through the use of straightforward circuit implementation.
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 device provides improved aerosol generation by maintaining optimal heating efficiency throughout a vaping session, resulting in a better user experience.
Implementation Method 1
an oscillating circuit configured to generate a time varying electromagnetic field for inductively heating a susceptor
Implementation Method 2
Electrical energy is provided 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
Implementation Method 3
The internal resistance of the thermistor changes in response to temperature changes
Implementation Method 4
a switching circuit electrically connected to the power source and configured to drive the oscillating circuit at an operating frequency determined by the frequency of the output signal of the VFO
Data Source
AI summary
An aerosol generating device includes a power source and an oscillating circuit configured to generate a time varying electromagnetic field for inductively heating a susceptor. A frequency generating circuit of a controller comprises a variable frequency oscillator VFO including a supply voltage terminal configured to receive a regulated supply voltage, a set terminal, and an oscillator output terminal configured to provide an output signal having a frequency that is determined by the resistance between the supply voltage terminal and the set terminal. The frequency generating circuit also includes a switching circuit electrically connected to the power source and configured to drive the oscillating circuit at an operating frequency determined by the frequency of the output signal of the VFO. A variable resistive component such as a thermistor is electrically connected between the supply voltage terminal and the set terminal of the VFO.