Variable Power Atomizer for Consistent Aerosol Delivery

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing non-burning type flavor inhalers fail to replicate the aerosol inhalation experience of traditional cigarettes, as the amount of aerosol per puff action varies significantly due to differences in puff action dynamics, making it impossible to achieve a consistent feeling of use.

Innovation Solution

A non-burning type flavor inhaler with a control unit that increases the power supplied to the atomizer stepwise with each puff action, simulating the aerosol delivery of a traditional cigarette by adjusting the power gradient, and incorporating a light-emitting element to indicate puff states and modes, along with a tobacco source stabilization agent to maintain nicotine delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If constant power is supplied to the atomizer to maintain stable aerosol generation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the device cannot replicate the varying aerosol delivery dynamics of traditional cigarettes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaerosol delivery consistencyVSAvoidpuff action dynamics replication
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from constant power supply to variable power supply that changes over time during puff actions. The control unit adjusts the power supplied to the atomizer based on the number of puff actions, creating a dynamic system that adapts to different usage stages and replicates the varying aerosol delivery characteristics of traditional cigarettes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the power supply parameter over time. Specifically, the power supplied to the atomizer is varied according to the number of puff actions performed, allowing the system to change its operational characteristics dynamically. This enables replication of traditional cigarette behavior where aerosol delivery varies during the smoking experience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If power supply is increased to maintain aerosol delivery in later puff actions, then productivity is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaerosol delivery maintenanceVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by dividing the power supply into distinct phases or periods based on the number of puff actions. Different power levels are supplied during different periods of usage, with higher power reserved for later stages when aerosol delivery would otherwise decline, rather than maintaining high power throughout.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the power parameter dynamically based on usage stage. By adjusting power levels according to the number of puff actions, the system optimizes the balance between maintaining aerosol delivery performance and managing power consumption, applying higher power only when necessary in later usage phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 achieves a consistent aerosol delivery akin to traditional cigarettes, enhancing user experience by simulating the puff action dynamics and maintaining nicotine levels, while reducing power consumption and decomposed substance inhalation.

Implementation Method 1

an atomizer for atomizing the aerosol source without burning, a power source for supplying power to the heat source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentEP3042576B1Non-burning type flavor inhaler
Publication Date: 2018.06.13 JAPAN TOBACCO INC
  • EP3042576B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3042576B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3042576B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A non-burning type flavor inhaler includes: an aerosol source that generates an aerosol; an atomizer that atomizes the aerosol source without burning; a power source that supplies power to the atomizer; and a control unit that controls a power amount supplied from the power source to the atomizer. The control unit increases the power amount supplied to the atomizer stepwise from a reference power amount along with an increase in the number of puff actions for inhaling the aerosol.