EP4284200A1 - Method for e-liquid recognition and operation control - Google Patents

Method for e-liquid recognition and operation control

Info

Publication number
EP4284200A1
EP4284200A1 EP22702275.3A EP22702275A EP4284200A1 EP 4284200 A1 EP4284200 A1 EP 4284200A1 EP 22702275 A EP22702275 A EP 22702275A EP 4284200 A1 EP4284200 A1 EP 4284200A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
liquid
conductivity
aerosol generating
aerosolisable
generating device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP22702275.3A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Alec WRIGHT
Eduardo Jose GARCIA GARCIA
Grzegorz Aleksander PILATOWICZ
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
JT International SA
Original Assignee
JT International SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by JT International SA filed Critical JT International SA
Publication of EP4284200A1 publication Critical patent/EP4284200A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/50—Control or monitoring
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/48—Fluid transfer means, e.g. pumps
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/10—Devices using liquid inhalable precursors

Definitions

  • the present invention is directed to a method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device comprising a control unit and the conductivity measuring unit and in particular to the aerosol generating device comprising such control unit and conductivity measuring unit.
  • the electrical aerosol generating devices simulate the feeling of smoking tobacco by generating an e-liquid to a vapor that cools and condenses to form aerosol. These liquids often contain flavorings with components for enhancing the aerosol with a predefined taste.
  • devices available which comprise systems for evaluation of the nicotine concentration of different liquids (W02020/260414A1). Such systems can for example control the nicotine concentration of generated aerosols from different liquids.
  • W02020/260414A1 systems for example control the nicotine concentration of generated aerosols from different liquids.
  • unauthorized e-liquids components could be contained, which could harm the user or cause an unpleasant taste, but this problem cannot be solved with the help of the known devices.
  • the aerosol generating device further comprises at least one exchangeable liquid reservoir comprising an aerosolisable liquid, an aerosol generating unit adapted to transform the aerosolisable liquid into aerosol and a liquid channel connecting the exchangeable liquid reservoir with the aerosol generating unit creating thereby a fluid liquid flow path.
  • the method is characterized by following steps: a) measuring a conductivity-related information of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization by conductivity a measuring unit comprising a conductivity sensor or at least two electrodes positioned in the liquid flow path; b) comparing the conductivity-related information to a reference information by a control unit of the aerosol generating device creating thereby a result and; c) operating the aerosol generating unit according to the result, wherein the aerosol generating unit preferably comprises a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) that ejects the aerosolisable liquid.
  • MEMS micro-electronic-mechanical-system
  • Conductivity of the aerosolisable liquid depends on the availability and density of mobile charge carriers. These can be loosely bound electrons, but also ions or delocalised electrons in organic molecules.
  • the aerosolisable liquid with many freely mobile charge carriers is particularly conductive.
  • Conductivity could act to recognise the different smokable and not smokable liquids. This way, the device could not only distinguish the type of the liquid depending on the measured conductivity-related information, but also the amount of ingredients contained in it, such as tobacco.
  • the measured liquid is preferably low conductive.
  • a method for measuring the conductivity-related information comprises measuring of voltage and/or current, wherein preferably a voltage source is immersed in the aerosolisable liquid. Also preferably the measured voltage and/or resulting current are transferred to the conductivity measuring unit for calculating resistance and/or conductivity by using Ohm's law and/ or inverted Ohm's law. It is conceivable that the conductivity measuring unit includes means for calculating and transferring information.
  • the reference information comprises an authorized value or a range of values with relevant information.
  • relevant information or reference information preferably comprises conductivity-related information of a liquid of reference.
  • water or a liquid with an aqueous basis could be the liquid of reference. If salts, acids, bases, flavourings or nicotine are added to the water or the liquid with the aqueous basis, which release free-moving ions, the conductivity increases.
  • the comparing step for creating the result comprises a suitable evaluation method for comparing the measured information with reference information.
  • the evaluation method is executable with the conductivity measuring unit or suitable means for evaluation.
  • the means for evaluation are connected at least to the conductivity measuring unit.
  • the aerosol generating device is deactivated. It is advantageous for detection of the genuine refills of the exchangeable liquid reservoir. Additionally, it is particularly advantageous for prevention of the situation that the user takes an empty reservoir, opens the reservoir or fills it with an unknown liquid.
  • the result comprises at least conductivity-related information of at least one aerosolisable liquid, also preferred at least two aerosolisable liquids. It is conceivable to apply the method for controlling operations of aerosol generating devices, wherein two different aerosolisable liquids are comprised in two exchangeable liquid reservoirs. Additionally or alternatively, the method is applicable by use of liquids with different dies, tobacco ratio, or flavourings. It is particularly advantageous for controlling of a mixing process and/ or ratio between two liquids.
  • Conductivity of the aerosolisable liquid further depends on pH value, temperature and an amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide, which could be dissolved in the liquid to form ions. It is possible to include a measuring any one of: the pH value, the temperature and the amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide to the method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device. Preferably one or several of the following measuring steps are additionally included in the method:
  • the method is characterized in that the conductivity- related information comprises a (complex) impedance of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization.
  • the complex impedance is preferably measured and/or evaluated by suitable means. It is particularly advantageous to account the complex impedance for achieve of an accurate and precise reading of the conductivity measuring.
  • the complex impedance preferably accounts non-ideal answers in a circuit caused by changes in resistance at different frequency, current and voltage signals out of phase and non-ideal resistors. It is also possible additionally or alternatively to measure the conductivity-related information after the aerosolization.
  • the conductivity-related information of the aerosolisable liquid before and/or after the aerosolization preferably comprises information about dissolved components of the flavourings, presence of acids, water content, propylene glycol ratio, vegetable glycerin and/ or nicotine content.
  • the method is characterized in that the conductivity- related information is a conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid contained in the liquid flow path as measured by the conductivity sensor and the reference information is a conductivity reference value or a conductivity reference range corresponding to an aerosolisable liquid of reference.
  • the conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid preferably comprises information about its resistance. It is also possible that the conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid is measured by the electrodes comprised in the conductivity measuring unit. It is possible that different reference information, especially conductivity reference values or ranges about several aerosolisable liquids of reference are available for the control unit. In such a case, the aerosol generating device can only be used with authorized aerosolisable liquids.
  • the method is preferably characterized in that the reference information is an impedance reference value or an impedance reference range corresponding to an aerosolisable liquid of reference.
  • the control unit disables the aerosol generating device if the measured conductivity value varies from the conductivity reference value or conductivity reference range stored in a memory of the aerosol generating device. It is possible that the aerosol generating device is locked or disabled for a predefined period of time. Preferably the aerosol generating device can be reactivated by its resetting and/or by replacing the reservoir. The reactivation of the function for the aerosol generating device is preferably executable by user’s operation.
  • the device comprises suitable means for an input action, e.g. a button or a touch display.
  • the means for the input action is connected to the control unit of the aerosol generating device. It is also conceivable that the disabled device is automatically activatable.
  • the method is characterized by measuring a temperature of the aerosolisable liquid by at least one temperature sensor, wherein the control unit determines a temperature coefficient of the conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid and corrects the measured conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid.
  • the conductivity-related information is corrected by a temperature compensation adjusting thereby to a reference temperature.
  • the correction of the conductivity value with the temperature coefficient is particularly advantageous for an accurate measurement. In this way, preferably errors in the identification of the liquids can be avoided, as the conductivity increases proportionally to the rising temperature. It is therefore advantageous to measure the conductivity of the liquid before aerosolisation, as the measured values would only have to be slightly corrected. However, it is also possible to measure the conductivity of the liquid after aerosolisation. In this case, a larger temperature coefficient should be used for correction. Preferably the temperature coefficient increases between 3% and 0.5% per °C. The value of the temperature coefficient varies depending on ingredients of the measured liquid. It is also possible to measure the conductivity before and after aerosolisation, wherein the measured values can also be compared with each other.
  • the temperature coefficient is a linear value and is stored in the memory of the aerosol generating device.
  • the method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device with correction by the temperature compensation or the temperature coefficient comprises additional following steps: • measuring a temperature of the aerosolisable liquid before and/or after aerosolization by at least one temperature sensor;
  • the method is characterized in that the control unit operates the aerosol generation unit by controlling at least one and preferably more than one of the following parameters of the delivered aerosol: temperature, volume, pulse frequency, aerosol ratio to at least two different aerosol outlets, mixing ratio between two aerosolisable liquids and combination thereof. It is possible that the control unit changes/offset the parameters of the aerosol generating unit to suit that of at least one measured aerosolisable liquid or a mixture of several aerosolisable liquids. Preferably the changes/offset are stored in the memory of the aerosol generating device. This enables particularly effective operation of the unit in regard to the used aerosolisable liquid.
  • the above-mentioned parameters can be individually adapted to individual liquids ensuring thereby a special smoking experience for the user.
  • the method is characterized in that the control unit is configured in function of the measured conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid to detect its attributes amongst: flavourings, presence of acid, water content, aerosol former content or ratio, nicotine content and combinations thereof.
  • the method is characterized by measuring the temperature by at least one temperature sensor, which is arranged in at least one section of the liquid flow path. Due to the heating of the aerosolisable liquid with a heating unit the temperature in the flow path is not constant. Therefore, it is advantageous to measure the temperature in the upper section of the liquid flow path, wherein the upper section is located near the heating unit.
  • near means that a distance between the temperature sensor and the heating unit is preferably in range of 5 mm and 3 cm. Other distances are also possible, wherein the distance between the heating unit and the temperature sensor is dependent on a size of the aerosol generating device or the distance between the upper and lower sections of the liquid flow path.
  • the method is characterized in that the aerosolized liquid is ejected by an aerosol generating unit comprising a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) having at least one microfluidic die and a heater arranged for heating liquid to force liquid through the die.
  • the heater is comprised in the heating unit.
  • the aerosol generating device can also comprise a vaporization unit, which comprises a vaporizer.
  • the heating unit or vaporization unit are used for aerosolization of the aerosolisable liquid.
  • the control unit operates the MEMS and the die depending on the conductivity-related information. It is conceivable that the heating temperature of the heater is variable depending on recognized properties of the aerosolisable liquid. In case of use of the thermolabile components in the aerosolisable liquid, it could be advantageous to reduce the heating temperature of the heater. Being able to change the heating temperature makes preferably a difference to taste of the aerosol.
  • the method is characterized by measuring the temperature with at least one temperature sensor provided in the liquid flow path between the liquid reservoir and the micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS).
  • MEMS micro-electronic-mechanical-system
  • two temperature sensors are arranged in two sections of the liquid flow path.
  • the first temperature sensor is arranged in the upper section of the liquid flow path in particular upstream relative to the liquid flow path and the second temperature sensor is arranged in the lower section of the liquid flow path.
  • the control unit determines at least two temperature coefficients of the conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid. For better temperature compensation, an average value of the temperature coefficients is required.
  • the conductive-related information can be corrected with an average of the temperature coefficients.
  • an aerosol generating device comprising at least one exchangeable liquid reservoir comprising an aerosolisable liquid, an aerosol generating unit adapted to transform the aerosolisable liquid into aerosol and a liquid channel connecting the exchangeable liquid reservoir with the aerosol generating unit creating thereby a fluid liquid flow path.
  • the aerosol generating device comprises a conductivity measuring unit comprising a conductivity sensor or at least two electrodes for measuring a conductivity- related information of the aerosolisable liquid arranged in the liquid flow path.
  • the aerosol generating device further comprises a control unit, which compares the conductivity-related information to a reference information.
  • the aerosol generating unit is preferably configured to eject the aerosolized liquid according to the results and wherein the aerosol generating unit comprises a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) .
  • MEMS micro-electronic-mechanical-system
  • the aerosol generating unit comprises a heater for use of the thermal injection to aerosolize the aerosolisable liquid.
  • the heater may take form of a heating resistor.
  • the aerosol generating unit preferably receives the aerosolisable liquid from the liquid reservoir and generates the aerosol.
  • An aerosol flow path is arranged to fluidly communicate with a mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device to allow the generated aerosol to flow from the aerosol generating unit to the mouthpiece.
  • the conductivity measuring unit comprises or is connected to a voltage source. It is conceivable that the voltage is applied to two flat plates or two electrodes positioned in at least one liquid channel.
  • the liquid channel preferably leads the aerosolisable liquid out of at least one exchangeable reservoir to the aerosol generating unit.
  • a more advanced conductivity cell uses preferably four electrodes.
  • the electrodes use preferably an alternating current through the outer electrodes and measures the voltage across the inner electrodes.
  • the four-electrode system gives preferably a lower current and has less charge transfer at the metal-liquid interface. This allows a wider dynamic range to be measured.
  • the voltage source is a DC voltage source.
  • a DC voltage would soon deplete the ions near the plates, causing polarization, and a higher than actual resistance to be measured.
  • the control unit compensates the higher resistance. It is also possible to use an AC voltage with a view to avoid this problem.
  • the aerosol generating device is characterized in that the conductivity-related information comprises an impedance of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization. It is conceivable that the impedance of the aerosolisable liquid is measured with at least two electrodes. Therefore, the aerosol generating device further comprises a DC or AC voltage source. In case of use of DC voltage source, preferably a converter, more preferably DC- AC-converter is comprised in the aerosol generating device.
  • the aerosol generating device is characterized in that the conductivity-related information is a conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid contained in the reservoir liquid channel or liquid flow path as measured by the conductivity sensor and the reference information is a conductivity reference value or a conductivity reference range corresponding to an aerosolisable liquid of reference.
  • the aerosolisable liquid of reference is a neutral water-based liquid.
  • the liquid of reference preferably represents a lowest conductivity value comprised in the reference information. It is also conceivable that the conductivity reference range corresponding to different aerosolisable liquids of reference are used.
  • the liquids of reference could be the neutral waterbased liquids, the aerosolisable liquids with in particular propylene glycol / vegetable glycerin (PG/VG) ratios, the aerosolisable liquids with distributed tobacco particles and/or the liquids with different salts and other components.
  • PG/VG propylene glycol / vegetable glycerin
  • the aerosol generating device is characterized in that the aerosol generating device further comprises at least one temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the aerosolisable liquid.
  • the conductivity sensor is preferably a ceramic-based conductivity sensor that is based preferably on thin or thick film technology.
  • Preferably such conductivity sensor comprises a resistance thermometer. This preferably enables accurate temperature compensation at the measuring point.
  • the conductivity sensor comprises two current electrodes and two measuring electrodes. This basic design is preferably adaptable according to specific applications of requirements.
  • the aerosol generating device is characterized in that the aerosol generating unit is a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) having at least one microfluidic die and a heater arranged for heating liquid to force liquid through the die.
  • MEMS micro-electronic-mechanical-system
  • the aerosolisable liquid is drawn from the liquid channel to the aerosol generating unit by capillary force.
  • the force is preferably caused by the interaction between surface tension of the aerosolisable liquid and interfacial tension between the water and the liquid channel.
  • a pressure change is preferably created and air is brought into an airflow path through the air inlets.
  • the air inlets are connected to the airflow path and located distal from the mouthpiece.
  • the aerosol generated by the heater is drawn to the mouthpiece and passes over a heater surface for inhalation by the user.
  • the conductivity measuring unit for recognition of the aerosolized liquid properties.
  • the aerosol generating device is characterized by at least one temperature sensor and/or conductivity measuring unit, which is arranged in at least one section of the liquid flow path between the liquid reservoir and the micro-electronic- mechanical-system (MEMS).
  • MEMS micro-electronic- mechanical-system
  • An advantage of associating the conductivity measurement to the MEMS is essentially to be able to finely control the aerosolization operation such as a flow rate of the liquid and temperature of the heater.
  • the aerosolization operation is controlled by adjusting pulse frequency of the liquid.
  • Positioning the temperature sensors and/or conductivity measuring unit between the liquid reservoir and the MEMS becomes also possible due to miniaturization of the aerosol generating unit.
  • a quick response on operating the aerosol generating unit is possible due to the position of the sensors, preferably close to the aerosol generating unit.
  • Fig. 1 an enlarged schematic sectional view of an aerosol generating device with two conductivity measuring units
  • Fig. 2 a flow chart of a method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device
  • Fig. 3 a structure chart of operating an aerosol generating device with two temperature sensors and conductivity measuring unit
  • Fig. 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device with conductivity measuring unit and temperature sensors.
  • FIG. 1 shows an enlarged schematic sectional view of an aerosol generating device 1 with two conductivity measuring units 5.
  • the shown aerosol generating device 1 is symmetrically built further comprising two exchangeable liquid reservoirs 2, which are arranged parallel to each other.
  • the reservoirs 2 contain similar or different liquids I.
  • the storage of two different liquids I in two separate reservoirs 2 is particularly advantageous for mixing the aerosols on demand.
  • the reservoirs 2 are preferably connected to an aerosol generating unit 3 via liquid channels 4.
  • the liquid channels 4 transport the liquids I out of the reservoirs 2 to a micro-electronic- mechanical-system (MEMS) 13, which is comprised in the aerosol generating unit 3.
  • MEMS 13 further comprises a heater or a vaporizer (not shown here), which heats the liquids I and generates an aerosol a.
  • the heater or the aerosol generating unit 3 is in fluid communication to the reservoirs 2.
  • the die 14 is/are offset from the heater or aerosol generating unit 3.
  • the aerosol generating device 1 further preferably comprises laterally arranged at least one recess 21 , preferably two recesses 21.
  • the recesses 21 preferably allow the air 16 to flow inside the aerosol generating device 1 equilibrate pressure in the liquid reservoir 2, if a user drawn on the mouthpiece 20 (shown in fig. 4). This way the liquid I can be forced into the liquid channel 4 and at least to the aerosol generating unit 3 by means of capillary force creating thereby a liquid flow path f.
  • recesses 21 It is particularly advantageous in view of construction characteristics of the liquid reservoir 2 to use recesses 21. Due to at least one recess 21 , it is conceivable to provide a rigid and non-deformable reservoir 2. However, it is also conceivable to use a flexible or formable reservoir 2 without recesses 21 .
  • the aerosol generating device 1 further comprises conductivity measuring unit 5 preferably arranged in each liquid channel 4.
  • the conductivity measuring unit 5 provides means for measuring the conductivity-related information of the liquid I comprised in the liquid flow path f.
  • each conductivity measuring unit 5 comprises a conductivity sensor 6 or at least two electrodes 7.
  • the conductivity measuring unit 5 is preferably connected to a control unit 9 of the aerosol generating device 1.
  • the conductivity measuring unit 5 transmits the conductivity- related information of the aerosolisable liquid I to the control unit 9. It is advantageous to arrange the conductivity measuring unit 5 in at least one section of the liquid flow path f1. Preferably this section of the liquid flow path f1 is an upper part of the fluid flow path f.
  • the measuring unit 5 in the section f1 in view of a short distance to the control unit 9. It is also conceivable to arrange the conductivity measuring unit 5 in the liquid flow path f between the liquid reservoir 2 and the aerosol generating unit 3. This could be advantageous regarding to the opportunity to make the device 1 particularly small.
  • Figure 2 shows a flow chart of a method 100 for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device 1.
  • Measuring the conductivity-related information 101 is a first step of the method 100.
  • a conductivity measuring unit 3 is used for measuring the conductivity-related information, such as conductivity or complex impedance of the aerosolisable liquid 2.
  • Comparing the conductivity-related information to a reference information 102 is a second step of the method 100.
  • the comparing step 102 is achieved in the control unit 9 of the aerosol generating device 1.
  • the reference information is stored in a memory 17 (shown in fig. 3) of the aerosol generating device 1.
  • the measured conductivity value of the liquid 2 is compared to the conductivity value or range of the liquid of reference.
  • control unit 9 may determine a temperature coefficient of the conductivity-related information as an additional step.
  • the measured conductivity-related information may be corrected related to the temperature coefficient.
  • the control unit 9 may recognize the aerosolisable liquid I measured in the liquid flow path f.
  • the aerosol generating unit 9 heats the aerosolisable liquid I comprised in the liquid flow path f after the recognition. Due to this, it is conceivable to control 105 at least one parameter of the delivered aerosol in fourth step of the method 100.
  • the parameters may be a heating temperature, volume, pulse frequency, aerosol ratio to at least two different aerosol outlets, mixing ratio between two aerosolisable liquids I and combination thereof. In case of recognition of not approved liquid I, it is possible to operate 103 the aerosol generating device 1 via control unit 9.
  • control unit 1 disables the aerosol generating device 1 for the further use, if the measured conductivity value varies from the conductivity reference value or conductivity reference range.
  • Figure 3 shows a structure chart of operating an aerosol generating device 1 with two temperature sensors 11 and a conductivity measuring unit 5.
  • the conductivity measuring unit 5 preferably measures the conductivity-related information 8.
  • the conductivity-related information 8 comprises conductivity value 8a or the complex impedance of the measured aerosolisable liquid I.
  • the conductivity measuring unit 5 comprises the conductivity sensor 6 or at least two electrodes 7.
  • at least one temperature sensor 11 measures the temperature 12 of the liquid I comprised in the liquid flow path f or in at least one section f1 of the liquid flow path f.
  • the measured temperature 12 is preferably transmitted together with the conductivity-related information 8 to the control unit 9.
  • the aerosol generating device 1 further comprises a memory 17 where at least the reference information 10 is stored.
  • the reference information 10 comprise conductivity reference value 10a from a liquid of reference or conductivity reference range 10b from different liquids of reference.
  • the reference information 10 is transmitted to the control unit 9 for comparing it with the measured conductivity-related information 8.
  • Another function of the control unit 9 may be determining a temperature coefficient of the conductivity value 8a and/or creating a result 18.
  • the control unit 9 operates the aerosol generating unit 3. It is conceivable that the aerosol generating unit 3 comprises MEMS 13. The control unit 9 may operate MEMS 13 by controlling at least one of the parameters of the delivered aerosol a before heating the liquid I. However, the aerosol generating unit 3 may disable the aerosol generating device 1 regarding to the result, if the result comprises unauthorized information.
  • Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 1 with conductivity measuring unit 5 and two temperature sensors 11. The shown aerosol generating device 1 comprises a mouthpiece 20, an exchangeable liquid reservoir 2, a control unit 9 and a voltage source 19.
  • the voltage source 19 is DC voltage, but it is also conceivable that the voltage source 19 is AC voltage and comprises an AC-DC converter (not shown).
  • the liquid reservoir 2 comprises a liquid channel 4, which is arranged to transport an aerosolisable liquid I from the liquid reservoir 2 to an aerosol generating device 3.
  • the aerosol generating device 3 comprises preferably a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) 13 for generating the liquid 2 to aerosol. It is conceivable that the aerosol generating device 2 or MEMS 13 further comprises a heater (not shown) for heating the liquid I to a liquid dependent temperature. It is conceivable that different liquids I may be heated to a predefined temperature, which is dependent on the properties of the liquid I. Therefore, it is conceivable that the aerosol generating device 1 further comprises a conductivity measuring unit 5 for recognition the liquid I comprised in the liquid reservoir 2 and in the liquid channel 4.
  • MEMS micro-electronic-mechanical-system
  • the liquid reservoir 2 is preferably in fluid connection to the mouthpiece 20.
  • the liquid I is preferably transportable from the reservoir 2 through the aerosol generating unit 3 to the mouthpiece 20 creating thereby a liquid flow path f and an aerosol flow path af.
  • the liquid reservoir 2 comprises at least one recess 21.
  • the recess 21 allows to flow the air in the aerosol generating device 1 .
  • the liquid flow path f is arranged in the liquid reservoir 2 and the aerosol flow path af is arranged in the mouthpiece 20.
  • the liquid flow path f is a path through which the liquid I flows substantially in a direction towards the mouthpiece 20 when a user draws upon the mouthpiece 20. It is conceivable that in the aerosol generating unit 3 aerosolized liquid I to the aerosol is transportable to the mouthpiece 20 via aerosol flow path af.
  • the aerosol flow path is preferably connected to a microfluidic die 14 comprised in MEMS 13.
  • the liquid flow path f comprises the conductivity measuring unit 5 and two temperature sensors, wherein the conductivity measuring unit 5 is arranged between the temperature sensors 11 for measuring the conductivity-related information of the liquid I contained in the liquid flow path f. It is also conceivable to use only one or more than two temperature sensors 11 for measuring a temperature of the liquid I in the liquid flow path f. Preferably the temperature sensors 11 enables a temperature coefficient to be determined, which can be used for correction of the measured conductivity-related information or conductivity value.
  • the conductivity measuring unit 5 is preferably connected to a control unit 9 of the aerosol generating device 1.
  • the conductivity measuring unit 5 preferably comprises a conductivity sensor 6 or at least two electrodes 7 as shown in figure 1 .
  • the conductivity measuring unit 5 comprises at least two electrodes for measuring an impedance of the liquid I comprised in the liquid flow path f.
  • the aerosol generating device 1 comprises a converter (not shown here) for converting the DC voltage to AC voltage.

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  • Investigating Or Analyzing Materials By The Use Of Electric Means (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device. The device comprises at least one exchangeable liquid reservoir comprising an aerosolisable liquid, an aerosol generating unit adapted to transform the aerosolisable liquid into aerosol and a liquid channel connecting the exchangeable liquid reservoir with the aerosol generating unit creating thereby a liquid flow path. The method is characterized by measuring a conductivity-related information of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization by conductivity measuring unit comprising a conductivity sensor or at least two electrodes positioned in the liquid flow path, comparing the conductivity-related information to a reference information by a control unit of the aerosol generating device creating thereby a result and, operating a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) comprised in the aerosol generating unit according to the result, wherein MEMS ejects the aerosolisable liquid. The invention also relates to an aerosol generating device comprising means for measuring and comparing of the conductivity-related information of the aerosolisable liquid.

Description

Method for e-liquid recognition and operation control
Description
The present invention is directed to a method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device comprising a control unit and the conductivity measuring unit and in particular to the aerosol generating device comprising such control unit and conductivity measuring unit.
The electrical aerosol generating devices simulate the feeling of smoking tobacco by generating an e-liquid to a vapor that cools and condenses to form aerosol. These liquids often contain flavorings with components for enhancing the aerosol with a predefined taste. There are also devices available, which comprise systems for evaluation of the nicotine concentration of different liquids (W02020/260414A1). Such systems can for example control the nicotine concentration of generated aerosols from different liquids. However, in some unauthorized e-liquids components could be contained, which could harm the user or cause an unpleasant taste, but this problem cannot be solved with the help of the known devices.
It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a method and an aerosol generating device that recognizes a genuine aerosolisable liquid before the aerosolization and/or controls the aerosol generating unit regarding the properties of the recognized liquid.
The above-mentioned requirement is met by the object of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are objects of the dependent claims. In a method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device according to the invention the aerosol generating device further comprises at least one exchangeable liquid reservoir comprising an aerosolisable liquid, an aerosol generating unit adapted to transform the aerosolisable liquid into aerosol and a liquid channel connecting the exchangeable liquid reservoir with the aerosol generating unit creating thereby a fluid liquid flow path. The method is characterized by following steps: a) measuring a conductivity-related information of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization by conductivity a measuring unit comprising a conductivity sensor or at least two electrodes positioned in the liquid flow path; b) comparing the conductivity-related information to a reference information by a control unit of the aerosol generating device creating thereby a result and; c) operating the aerosol generating unit according to the result, wherein the aerosol generating unit preferably comprises a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) that ejects the aerosolisable liquid.
Conductivity of the aerosolisable liquid depends on the availability and density of mobile charge carriers. These can be loosely bound electrons, but also ions or delocalised electrons in organic molecules. Preferably the aerosolisable liquid with many freely mobile charge carriers is particularly conductive. Thus, in general the more ions are present in the liquid the greater is the conductivity. This helps to ensure that the different aerosolisable liquids can be distinguished by the device. Conductivity could act to recognise the different smokable and not smokable liquids. This way, the device could not only distinguish the type of the liquid depending on the measured conductivity-related information, but also the amount of ingredients contained in it, such as tobacco. In case of low amount of freely mobile charge carriers, the measured liquid is preferably low conductive.
Preferably a method for measuring the conductivity-related information comprises measuring of voltage and/or current, wherein preferably a voltage source is immersed in the aerosolisable liquid. Also preferably the measured voltage and/or resulting current are transferred to the conductivity measuring unit for calculating resistance and/or conductivity by using Ohm's law and/ or inverted Ohm's law. It is conceivable that the conductivity measuring unit includes means for calculating and transferring information.
Preferably the reference information comprises an authorized value or a range of values with relevant information. Such relevant information or reference information preferably comprises conductivity-related information of a liquid of reference. In one embodiment, water or a liquid with an aqueous basis could be the liquid of reference. If salts, acids, bases, flavourings or nicotine are added to the water or the liquid with the aqueous basis, which release free-moving ions, the conductivity increases. It is conceivable that the comparing step for creating the result comprises a suitable evaluation method for comparing the measured information with reference information. Preferably the evaluation method is executable with the conductivity measuring unit or suitable means for evaluation. Also preferably the means for evaluation are connected at least to the conductivity measuring unit. If the measured information are not in the range or multiple pre-programmed ranges of the reference information, preferably the aerosol generating device is deactivated. It is advantageous for detection of the genuine refills of the exchangeable liquid reservoir. Additionally, it is particularly advantageous for prevention of the situation that the user takes an empty reservoir, opens the reservoir or fills it with an unknown liquid.
Also preferably the result comprises at least conductivity-related information of at least one aerosolisable liquid, also preferred at least two aerosolisable liquids. It is conceivable to apply the method for controlling operations of aerosol generating devices, wherein two different aerosolisable liquids are comprised in two exchangeable liquid reservoirs. Additionally or alternatively, the method is applicable by use of liquids with different dies, tobacco ratio, or flavourings. It is particularly advantageous for controlling of a mixing process and/ or ratio between two liquids.
Conductivity of the aerosolisable liquid further depends on pH value, temperature and an amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide, which could be dissolved in the liquid to form ions. It is possible to include a measuring any one of: the pH value, the temperature and the amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide to the method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device. Preferably one or several of the following measuring steps are additionally included in the method:
• measuring a pH value of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization by suitable means;
• comparing the pH value to a reference pH value by a control unit of the aerosol generating device and/or adding to the result;
• measuring a temperature of the aerosolisable liquid before and/or during and/or after aerosolization by suitable means;
• comparing the temperature to a reference temperature by a control unit of the aerosol generating device and adding to the result; • measuring an amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization by suitable means;
• comparing the amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide to a reference amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide by a control unit of the aerosol generating device and adding to the result.
According to another embodiment, the method is characterized in that the conductivity- related information comprises a (complex) impedance of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization. In this case, the complex impedance is preferably measured and/or evaluated by suitable means. It is particularly advantageous to account the complex impedance for achieve of an accurate and precise reading of the conductivity measuring. The complex impedance preferably accounts non-ideal answers in a circuit caused by changes in resistance at different frequency, current and voltage signals out of phase and non-ideal resistors. It is also possible additionally or alternatively to measure the conductivity-related information after the aerosolization. The conductivity-related information of the aerosolisable liquid before and/or after the aerosolization preferably comprises information about dissolved components of the flavourings, presence of acids, water content, propylene glycol ratio, vegetable glycerin and/ or nicotine content.
According to another embodiment, the method is characterized in that the conductivity- related information is a conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid contained in the liquid flow path as measured by the conductivity sensor and the reference information is a conductivity reference value or a conductivity reference range corresponding to an aerosolisable liquid of reference. The conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid preferably comprises information about its resistance. It is also possible that the conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid is measured by the electrodes comprised in the conductivity measuring unit. It is possible that different reference information, especially conductivity reference values or ranges about several aerosolisable liquids of reference are available for the control unit. In such a case, the aerosol generating device can only be used with authorized aerosolisable liquids.
Alternatively, the method is preferably characterized in that the reference information is an impedance reference value or an impedance reference range corresponding to an aerosolisable liquid of reference. According to another embodiment, the method is characterized in that the control unit disables the aerosol generating device if the measured conductivity value varies from the conductivity reference value or conductivity reference range stored in a memory of the aerosol generating device. It is possible that the aerosol generating device is locked or disabled for a predefined period of time. Preferably the aerosol generating device can be reactivated by its resetting and/or by replacing the reservoir. The reactivation of the function for the aerosol generating device is preferably executable by user’s operation. It is possible that the device comprises suitable means for an input action, e.g. a button or a touch display. Preferably the means for the input action is connected to the control unit of the aerosol generating device. It is also conceivable that the disabled device is automatically activatable.
According to another embodiment, the method is characterized by measuring a temperature of the aerosolisable liquid by at least one temperature sensor, wherein the control unit determines a temperature coefficient of the conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid and corrects the measured conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid. Preferably the conductivity-related information is corrected by a temperature compensation adjusting thereby to a reference temperature.
It is conceivable to use for example 25°C as the reference temperature, but other temperature values are also possible. The correction of the conductivity value with the temperature coefficient is particularly advantageous for an accurate measurement. In this way, preferably errors in the identification of the liquids can be avoided, as the conductivity increases proportionally to the rising temperature. It is therefore advantageous to measure the conductivity of the liquid before aerosolisation, as the measured values would only have to be slightly corrected. However, it is also possible to measure the conductivity of the liquid after aerosolisation. In this case, a larger temperature coefficient should be used for correction. Preferably the temperature coefficient increases between 3% and 0.5% per °C. The value of the temperature coefficient varies depending on ingredients of the measured liquid. It is also possible to measure the conductivity before and after aerosolisation, wherein the measured values can also be compared with each other.
Preferably the temperature coefficient is a linear value and is stored in the memory of the aerosol generating device. Preferably the method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device with correction by the temperature compensation or the temperature coefficient comprises additional following steps: • measuring a temperature of the aerosolisable liquid before and/or after aerosolization by at least one temperature sensor;
• determining a temperature coefficient of the conductivity-related information or conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid by the control unit;
• correcting the measured conductivity-related information or conductivity value;
• adding to the result.
According to another embodiment, the method is characterized in that the control unit operates the aerosol generation unit by controlling at least one and preferably more than one of the following parameters of the delivered aerosol: temperature, volume, pulse frequency, aerosol ratio to at least two different aerosol outlets, mixing ratio between two aerosolisable liquids and combination thereof. It is possible that the control unit changes/offset the parameters of the aerosol generating unit to suit that of at least one measured aerosolisable liquid or a mixture of several aerosolisable liquids. Preferably the changes/offset are stored in the memory of the aerosol generating device. This enables particularly effective operation of the unit in regard to the used aerosolisable liquid. The above-mentioned parameters can be individually adapted to individual liquids ensuring thereby a special smoking experience for the user.
According to another embodiment, the method is characterized in that the control unit is configured in function of the measured conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid to detect its attributes amongst: flavourings, presence of acid, water content, aerosol former content or ratio, nicotine content and combinations thereof.
According to another embodiment, the method is characterized by measuring the temperature by at least one temperature sensor, which is arranged in at least one section of the liquid flow path. Due to the heating of the aerosolisable liquid with a heating unit the temperature in the flow path is not constant. Therefore, it is advantageous to measure the temperature in the upper section of the liquid flow path, wherein the upper section is located near the heating unit. In this context “near” means that a distance between the temperature sensor and the heating unit is preferably in range of 5 mm and 3 cm. Other distances are also possible, wherein the distance between the heating unit and the temperature sensor is dependent on a size of the aerosol generating device or the distance between the upper and lower sections of the liquid flow path. According to another embodiment, the method is characterized in that the aerosolized liquid is ejected by an aerosol generating unit comprising a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) having at least one microfluidic die and a heater arranged for heating liquid to force liquid through the die. Preferably the heater is comprised in the heating unit. For clarity, the aerosol generating device can also comprise a vaporization unit, which comprises a vaporizer. However, the skilled person will recognize, that the heating unit or vaporization unit are used for aerosolization of the aerosolisable liquid. Preferably the control unit operates the MEMS and the die depending on the conductivity-related information. It is conceivable that the heating temperature of the heater is variable depending on recognized properties of the aerosolisable liquid. In case of use of the thermolabile components in the aerosolisable liquid, it could be advantageous to reduce the heating temperature of the heater. Being able to change the heating temperature makes preferably a difference to taste of the aerosol.
According to another embodiment, the method is characterized by measuring the temperature with at least one temperature sensor provided in the liquid flow path between the liquid reservoir and the micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS). It is also conceivable that two temperature sensors are arranged in two sections of the liquid flow path. Preferably the first temperature sensor is arranged in the upper section of the liquid flow path in particular upstream relative to the liquid flow path and the second temperature sensor is arranged in the lower section of the liquid flow path. Preferably the control unit determines at least two temperature coefficients of the conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid. For better temperature compensation, an average value of the temperature coefficients is required. Thus, the conductive-related information can be corrected with an average of the temperature coefficients.
The objective is also reached by an aerosol generating device comprising at least one exchangeable liquid reservoir comprising an aerosolisable liquid, an aerosol generating unit adapted to transform the aerosolisable liquid into aerosol and a liquid channel connecting the exchangeable liquid reservoir with the aerosol generating unit creating thereby a fluid liquid flow path. The aerosol generating device comprises a conductivity measuring unit comprising a conductivity sensor or at least two electrodes for measuring a conductivity- related information of the aerosolisable liquid arranged in the liquid flow path. The aerosol generating device further comprises a control unit, which compares the conductivity-related information to a reference information. The aerosol generating unit is preferably configured to eject the aerosolized liquid according to the results and wherein the aerosol generating unit comprises a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) .
The aerosol generating unit comprises a heater for use of the thermal injection to aerosolize the aerosolisable liquid. The heater may take form of a heating resistor. The aerosol generating unit preferably receives the aerosolisable liquid from the liquid reservoir and generates the aerosol. An aerosol flow path is arranged to fluidly communicate with a mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device to allow the generated aerosol to flow from the aerosol generating unit to the mouthpiece.
Preferably the conductivity measuring unit comprises or is connected to a voltage source. It is conceivable that the voltage is applied to two flat plates or two electrodes positioned in at least one liquid channel. The liquid channel preferably leads the aerosolisable liquid out of at least one exchangeable reservoir to the aerosol generating unit. A more advanced conductivity cell uses preferably four electrodes. The electrodes use preferably an alternating current through the outer electrodes and measures the voltage across the inner electrodes. The four-electrode system gives preferably a lower current and has less charge transfer at the metal-liquid interface. This allows a wider dynamic range to be measured.
It is conceivable that the voltage source is a DC voltage source. However, a DC voltage would soon deplete the ions near the plates, causing polarization, and a higher than actual resistance to be measured. Preferably the control unit compensates the higher resistance. It is also possible to use an AC voltage with a view to avoid this problem.
Alternatively, the aerosol generating device is characterized in that the conductivity-related information comprises an impedance of the aerosolisable liquid before aerosolization. It is conceivable that the impedance of the aerosolisable liquid is measured with at least two electrodes. Therefore, the aerosol generating device further comprises a DC or AC voltage source. In case of use of DC voltage source, preferably a converter, more preferably DC- AC-converter is comprised in the aerosol generating device.
According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is characterized in that the conductivity-related information is a conductivity value of the aerosolisable liquid contained in the reservoir liquid channel or liquid flow path as measured by the conductivity sensor and the reference information is a conductivity reference value or a conductivity reference range corresponding to an aerosolisable liquid of reference. Preferably the aerosolisable liquid of reference is a neutral water-based liquid. In this case the liquid of reference preferably represents a lowest conductivity value comprised in the reference information. It is also conceivable that the conductivity reference range corresponding to different aerosolisable liquids of reference are used. In this case the liquids of reference could be the neutral waterbased liquids, the aerosolisable liquids with in particular propylene glycol / vegetable glycerin (PG/VG) ratios, the aerosolisable liquids with distributed tobacco particles and/or the liquids with different salts and other components.
According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is characterized in that the aerosol generating device further comprises at least one temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the aerosolisable liquid. It is conceivable that the conductivity sensor is preferably a ceramic-based conductivity sensor that is based preferably on thin or thick film technology. Preferably such conductivity sensor comprises a resistance thermometer. This preferably enables accurate temperature compensation at the measuring point. It is conceivable that the conductivity sensor comprises two current electrodes and two measuring electrodes. This basic design is preferably adaptable according to specific applications of requirements.
According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is characterized in that the aerosol generating unit is a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) having at least one microfluidic die and a heater arranged for heating liquid to force liquid through the die. Preferably the aerosolisable liquid is drawn from the liquid channel to the aerosol generating unit by capillary force.
The force is preferably caused by the interaction between surface tension of the aerosolisable liquid and interfacial tension between the water and the liquid channel. When user draws on a mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device a pressure change is preferably created and air is brought into an airflow path through the air inlets. Preferably the air inlets are connected to the airflow path and located distal from the mouthpiece. Preferably due to the pressure change, the aerosol generated by the heater is drawn to the mouthpiece and passes over a heater surface for inhalation by the user. Particularly in the aerosol generating devices, which comprise MEMS and at least one microfluidic die, it is advantageous to use the conductivity measuring unit for recognition of the aerosolized liquid properties. According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is characterized by at least one temperature sensor and/or conductivity measuring unit, which is arranged in at least one section of the liquid flow path between the liquid reservoir and the micro-electronic- mechanical-system (MEMS). An advantage of associating the conductivity measurement to the MEMS is essentially to be able to finely control the aerosolization operation such as a flow rate of the liquid and temperature of the heater. Preferably the aerosolization operation is controlled by adjusting pulse frequency of the liquid. Positioning the temperature sensors and/or conductivity measuring unit between the liquid reservoir and the MEMS becomes also possible due to miniaturization of the aerosol generating unit. A quick response on operating the aerosol generating unit is possible due to the position of the sensors, preferably close to the aerosol generating unit.
Further advantages, objectives and features of the present invention will be described, by way of example only, in the following description with reference to the appended figures. In the figures, like components in different embodiments can exhibit the same reference symbols.
The figures show:
Fig. 1 an enlarged schematic sectional view of an aerosol generating device with two conductivity measuring units;
Fig. 2 a flow chart of a method for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device;
Fig. 3 a structure chart of operating an aerosol generating device with two temperature sensors and conductivity measuring unit;
Fig. 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device with conductivity measuring unit and temperature sensors.
Figure 1 shows an enlarged schematic sectional view of an aerosol generating device 1 with two conductivity measuring units 5. The shown aerosol generating device 1 is symmetrically built further comprising two exchangeable liquid reservoirs 2, which are arranged parallel to each other. The reservoirs 2 contain similar or different liquids I. In case of use of different liquids I, the storage of two different liquids I in two separate reservoirs 2 is particularly advantageous for mixing the aerosols on demand.
Due to this, it is advantageous to observe and control properties of the mixture, preferably mixing ratio between the liquids I, volume, temperature and/or pulse frequency of the liquids I. This task is taken over a control unit 9, which particularly operates the aerosol generating device 1 . Figure 1 shows only one control unit 9, but it is also conceivable to use at least two control units 9 for operating the aerosol generating device 1 .
The reservoirs 2 are preferably connected to an aerosol generating unit 3 via liquid channels 4. The liquid channels 4 transport the liquids I out of the reservoirs 2 to a micro-electronic- mechanical-system (MEMS) 13, which is comprised in the aerosol generating unit 3. It is conceivable that MEMS 13 further comprises a heater or a vaporizer (not shown here), which heats the liquids I and generates an aerosol a. As a result of this, the heater or the aerosol generating unit 3 is in fluid communication to the reservoirs 2.
A microfluidic die 14 and the aerosol generating unit 3 or the heater, preferably two microfluidic dies 14, align direction one above the other. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the die 14 is/are offset from the heater or aerosol generating unit 3. The aerosol generating device 1 further preferably comprises laterally arranged at least one recess 21 , preferably two recesses 21. The recesses 21 preferably allow the air 16 to flow inside the aerosol generating device 1 equilibrate pressure in the liquid reservoir 2, if a user drawn on the mouthpiece 20 (shown in fig. 4). This way the liquid I can be forced into the liquid channel 4 and at least to the aerosol generating unit 3 by means of capillary force creating thereby a liquid flow path f. It is particularly advantageous in view of construction characteristics of the liquid reservoir 2 to use recesses 21. Due to at least one recess 21 , it is conceivable to provide a rigid and non-deformable reservoir 2. However, it is also conceivable to use a flexible or formable reservoir 2 without recesses 21 .
According to the invention, the aerosol generating device 1 further comprises conductivity measuring unit 5 preferably arranged in each liquid channel 4. Preferably the conductivity measuring unit 5 provides means for measuring the conductivity-related information of the liquid I comprised in the liquid flow path f. It is conceivable that each conductivity measuring unit 5 comprises a conductivity sensor 6 or at least two electrodes 7. The conductivity measuring unit 5 is preferably connected to a control unit 9 of the aerosol generating device 1. Preferably the conductivity measuring unit 5 transmits the conductivity- related information of the aerosolisable liquid I to the control unit 9. It is advantageous to arrange the conductivity measuring unit 5 in at least one section of the liquid flow path f1. Preferably this section of the liquid flow path f1 is an upper part of the fluid flow path f. In particular it is advantageous to arrange the measuring unit 5 in the section f1 in view of a short distance to the control unit 9. It is also conceivable to arrange the conductivity measuring unit 5 in the liquid flow path f between the liquid reservoir 2 and the aerosol generating unit 3. This could be advantageous regarding to the opportunity to make the device 1 particularly small.
Figure 2 shows a flow chart of a method 100 for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device 1. Measuring the conductivity-related information 101 is a first step of the method 100. Preferably a conductivity measuring unit 3 is used for measuring the conductivity-related information, such as conductivity or complex impedance of the aerosolisable liquid 2. Comparing the conductivity-related information to a reference information 102 is a second step of the method 100. The comparing step 102 is achieved in the control unit 9 of the aerosol generating device 1. It is conceivable that the reference information is stored in a memory 17 (shown in fig. 3) of the aerosol generating device 1. Preferably the measured conductivity value of the liquid 2 is compared to the conductivity value or range of the liquid of reference.
It is conceivable that several, e.g. three different liquids of reference, wherein the reference conductivity values or ranges of the liquids are stored in the memory 17 of the aerosol generating device 1 . It is conceivable to measure the temperature 104 as a third step of the method 100. In this case the control unit 9 may determine a temperature coefficient of the conductivity-related information as an additional step.
Also additionally, preferably the measured conductivity-related information may be corrected related to the temperature coefficient. Preferably the control unit 9 may recognize the aerosolisable liquid I measured in the liquid flow path f. Preferably the aerosol generating unit 9 heats the aerosolisable liquid I comprised in the liquid flow path f after the recognition. Due to this, it is conceivable to control 105 at least one parameter of the delivered aerosol in fourth step of the method 100. The parameters may be a heating temperature, volume, pulse frequency, aerosol ratio to at least two different aerosol outlets, mixing ratio between two aerosolisable liquids I and combination thereof. In case of recognition of not approved liquid I, it is possible to operate 103 the aerosol generating device 1 via control unit 9. It is conceivable that the user may receive an operation request on a display (not shown here) of the device 1 . Preferably the control unit 1 disables the aerosol generating device 1 for the further use, if the measured conductivity value varies from the conductivity reference value or conductivity reference range.
Figure 3 shows a structure chart of operating an aerosol generating device 1 with two temperature sensors 11 and a conductivity measuring unit 5. The conductivity measuring unit 5 preferably measures the conductivity-related information 8. Preferably the conductivity-related information 8 comprises conductivity value 8a or the complex impedance of the measured aerosolisable liquid I. It is conceivable that the conductivity measuring unit 5 comprises the conductivity sensor 6 or at least two electrodes 7. After taking the measured conductivity-related information 8, they are preferably transmitted to the control unit 9. Additionally at least one temperature sensor 11 measures the temperature 12 of the liquid I comprised in the liquid flow path f or in at least one section f1 of the liquid flow path f. The measured temperature 12 is preferably transmitted together with the conductivity-related information 8 to the control unit 9. The aerosol generating device 1 further comprises a memory 17 where at least the reference information 10 is stored.
It is conceivable that the reference information 10 comprise conductivity reference value 10a from a liquid of reference or conductivity reference range 10b from different liquids of reference. Preferably the reference information 10 is transmitted to the control unit 9 for comparing it with the measured conductivity-related information 8. Another function of the control unit 9 may be determining a temperature coefficient of the conductivity value 8a and/or creating a result 18.
According to the result 18 the control unit 9 operates the aerosol generating unit 3. It is conceivable that the aerosol generating unit 3 comprises MEMS 13. The control unit 9 may operate MEMS 13 by controlling at least one of the parameters of the delivered aerosol a before heating the liquid I. However, the aerosol generating unit 3 may disable the aerosol generating device 1 regarding to the result, if the result comprises unauthorized information. Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 1 with conductivity measuring unit 5 and two temperature sensors 11. The shown aerosol generating device 1 comprises a mouthpiece 20, an exchangeable liquid reservoir 2, a control unit 9 and a voltage source 19. Preferably the voltage source 19 is DC voltage, but it is also conceivable that the voltage source 19 is AC voltage and comprises an AC-DC converter (not shown). The liquid reservoir 2 comprises a liquid channel 4, which is arranged to transport an aerosolisable liquid I from the liquid reservoir 2 to an aerosol generating device 3.
The aerosol generating device 3 comprises preferably a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) 13 for generating the liquid 2 to aerosol. It is conceivable that the aerosol generating device 2 or MEMS 13 further comprises a heater (not shown) for heating the liquid I to a liquid dependent temperature. It is conceivable that different liquids I may be heated to a predefined temperature, which is dependent on the properties of the liquid I. Therefore, it is conceivable that the aerosol generating device 1 further comprises a conductivity measuring unit 5 for recognition the liquid I comprised in the liquid reservoir 2 and in the liquid channel 4.
The liquid reservoir 2 is preferably in fluid connection to the mouthpiece 20. The liquid I is preferably transportable from the reservoir 2 through the aerosol generating unit 3 to the mouthpiece 20 creating thereby a liquid flow path f and an aerosol flow path af. It is conceivable that the liquid reservoir 2 comprises at least one recess 21. Preferably the recess 21 allows to flow the air in the aerosol generating device 1 . Preferably the liquid flow path f is arranged in the liquid reservoir 2 and the aerosol flow path af is arranged in the mouthpiece 20.
The liquid flow path f is a path through which the liquid I flows substantially in a direction towards the mouthpiece 20 when a user draws upon the mouthpiece 20. It is conceivable that in the aerosol generating unit 3 aerosolized liquid I to the aerosol is transportable to the mouthpiece 20 via aerosol flow path af. In particular, the aerosol flow path is preferably connected to a microfluidic die 14 comprised in MEMS 13.
In the shown figure, the liquid flow path f comprises the conductivity measuring unit 5 and two temperature sensors, wherein the conductivity measuring unit 5 is arranged between the temperature sensors 11 for measuring the conductivity-related information of the liquid I contained in the liquid flow path f. It is also conceivable to use only one or more than two temperature sensors 11 for measuring a temperature of the liquid I in the liquid flow path f. Preferably the temperature sensors 11 enables a temperature coefficient to be determined, which can be used for correction of the measured conductivity-related information or conductivity value.
The conductivity measuring unit 5 is preferably connected to a control unit 9 of the aerosol generating device 1. According to the invention, the conductivity measuring unit 5 preferably comprises a conductivity sensor 6 or at least two electrodes 7 as shown in figure 1 . In some embodiments, the conductivity measuring unit 5 comprises at least two electrodes for measuring an impedance of the liquid I comprised in the liquid flow path f. In this case it is conceivable that the aerosol generating device 1 comprises a converter (not shown here) for converting the DC voltage to AC voltage.
The applicant reserves his right to claim all features disclosed in the application document as being an essential feature of the invention, as long as they are new, individually or in combination, in view of the prior art. Furthermore, it is noted that in the figures features are described, which can be advantageous individually. Someone skilled in the art will directly recognize that a specific feature being disclosed in a figure can be advantageous also without the adoption of further features from this figure. Furthermore, someone skilled in the art will recognize that advantages can evolve from a combination of diverse features being disclosed in one or various figures.
List of reference symbols
1 aerosol generating device
2 exchangeable liquid reservoir
3 aerosol generating unit
4 liquid channel
5 conductivity measuring unit
6 conductivity sensor
7 electrodes
8 conductivity-related information
8a conductivity value
9 control unit
10 reference information
10a conductivity reference value
10b conductivity reference range
11 temperature sensor
12 temperature
13 micro-electronic-mechanical-system
14 microfluidic die
15 heater
16 air
17 memory of the aerosol generating device
18 result
19 voltage source
20 mouthpiece
21 recess
100 method for controlling operations
101 measuring the conductivity-related information
102 comparing the conductivity-related information to the reference information
103 operating the aerosol generating device
104 measuring the temperature
105 controlling at least one parameter of the delivered aerosol a aerosol af aerosol flow path
I aerosolisable liquid f liquid flow path f1 section of the liquid flow path

Claims

Claims A method (100) for controlling operations of an aerosol generating device (1 ) comprising at least one exchangeable liquid reservoir (2) comprising an aerosolisable liquid (I), an aerosol generating unit (3) adapted to transform the aerosolisable liquid (I) into aerosol (a) and a liquid channel (4) connecting the exchangeable liquid reservoir (2) with the aerosol generating unit (3) creating thereby a liquid flow path (f), characterized by a) measuring (101 ) a conductivity-related information (8) of the aerosolisable liquid (I) before aerosolization by a conductivity measuring unit (5) comprising a conductivity sensor (6) or at least two electrodes (7) positioned in the liquid flow path (f), b) comparing (102) the conductivity-related information (8) to a reference information (10) by a control unit (9) of the aerosol generating device (1) creating thereby a result (18) and, c) operating (103) the aerosol generating unit (3) according to the result (18), wherein the aerosol generating unit comprises a micro-electronic-mechanical- system (MEMS) (13) that ) ejects the aerosolisable liquid (I). The method (100) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the conductivity-related information (8) comprises a (complex) impedance of the aerosolisable liquid (I) before aerosolization. The method (100) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the conductivity-related information (8) is a conductivity value (8a) of the aerosolisable liquid (I) contained in the liquid flow path (f) as measured by the conductivity sensor (6) and the reference information (10) is a conductivity reference value (10a) or a conductivity reference range (10b) corresponding to an aerosolisable liquid of reference. The method (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that the control unit (9) disables the aerosol generating device (1) if the measured conductivity value (8a) varies from the conductivity reference value (10a) or conductivity reference range (10b) stored in a memory (17) of the aerosol generating device (1). The method (100) according to claim 3 or 5, characterized by measuring (104) a temperature (12) of the aerosolisable liquid (I) by at least one temperature sensor (11), wherein the control unit (9) determines a temperature coefficient of the conductivity value (8a) of the aerosolisable liquid (I) and corrects the measured conductivity value (8a) of the aerosolisable liquid (I). The method (100) according to any preceding claim, characterized in that the control unit (9) operates the aerosol generation unit by controlling (105) at least one of the following parameters of the delivered aerosol (a): temperature, volume, pulse frequency, aerosol ratio to at least two different aerosol outlets, mixing ratio between two aerosolisable liquids (I) and combination thereof. The method (100) according to any preceding claim, characterized in that the control unit (9) is configured in function of the measured conductivity value (8a) of the aerosolisable liquid (I) to detect its attributes amongst: flavourings, presence of acid, water content, aerosol former content or ratio, nicotine content and combinations thereof. The method (100) according to claim 6, characterized by measuring (104) the temperature (12) by at least one temperature sensor (11 ), which is arranged in at least one section (f 1 ) of the liquid flow path (f). The method (100) according to any preceding claim, characterized in that the micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) (13) comprises at least one microfluidic die (14) and a heater (15) arranged for heating liquid (I) to force liquid (I) through the die (14). The method (100) according to preceding claim 9, characterized by measuring (104) the temperature (12) with at least one temperature sensor (11) provided in the liquid flow path (f) between the liquid reservoir (2) and the micro- electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) (13). An aerosol generating device (1 ) comprising at least one exchangeable liquid reservoir (2) comprising an aerosolisable liquid (I), an aerosol generating unit (3) adapted to transform the aerosolisable liquid (I) into aerosol (a) and a liquid channel (4) connecting the exchangeable liquid reservoir (2) with the aerosol generating unit (3) creating thereby a liquid flow path (f), characterized in that the aerosol generating device (1) comprises a conductivity measuring unit (5) comprising a conductivity sensor (6) or at least two electrodes (7) for measuring a conductivity-related information (8) of the aerosolisable liquid (I) arranged in the liquid flow path (f), wherein the aerosol generating device (1) further comprises a control unit (9), which compares the conductivity-related information (8) to a reference information (10), wherein the aerosol generating unit is configured to eject the aerosolized liquid according to the results and wherein the aerosol generating unit comprises a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) (13). The aerosol generating device (1 ) according to claim 11 , characterized in that 21 the conductivity-related information (8) is a conductivity value (8a) of the aerosolisable liquid (I) contained in the liquid channel (4) or liquid flow path (f) as measured by the conductivity sensor (6) and/or the reference information (10) is a conductivity reference value (10a) or a conductivity reference range (10b) corresponding to an aerosolisable liquid of reference. The aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 11 - 13, characterized in that the aerosol generating device (1) further comprises at least one temperature sensor (11 ) for measuring the temperature (12) of the aerosolisable liquid (I). The aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 11 - 14, characterized in that the aerosol generating unit (3) is a micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) (13) having at least one microfluidic die (14) and a heater (15) arranged for heating liquid (I) to force liquid (I) through the die (14). The aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 14, characterized by at least one temperature sensor (11) and/or conductivity measuring unit (5), which is arranged in at least one section (f1) of the liquid flow path (f) between the liquid reservoir (2) and the micro-electronic-mechanical-system (MEMS) (13).
EP22702275.3A 2021-01-29 2022-01-28 Method for e-liquid recognition and operation control Pending EP4284200A1 (en)

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