EP4609734A1

EP4609734A1 - Electronic atomization device, device body, and liquid source

Info

Publication number: EP4609734A1
Application number: EP24164243.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Honghao LAI; Zhongyuan SUN; Zhongli XU; Yonghai LI
Original assignee: Shenzhen FirstUnion Technology Co Ltd; Ivg Compliance Ltd; IVG Compliance Ltd
Current assignee: Shenzhen FirstUnion Technology Co Ltd; Ivg Compliance Ltd; IVG Compliance Ltd
Priority date: 2024-02-27
Filing date: 2024-03-18
Publication date: 2025-09-03
Also published as: GB202416700D0; CN120549281A; GB2638841A; GB2626091B; GB202403846D0; GB2626091A

Abstract

This application provides an electronic atomization device, a device body, and a liquid source, where the electronic atomization device includes a device body, and a liquid source that exists independently and is combined with the device body; the device body includes: a first liquid storage cavity, configured to store a liquid substrate; and an atomization assembly, configured to receive and atomize the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity to generate an aerosol; and the liquid source includes a second liquid storage cavity, configured to store the liquid substrate; a liquid transfer channel, when the liquid source is combined with the device body, configured to provide a channel path for the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity to be delivered to the first liquid storage cavity, thereby replenishing the liquid substrate to the first liquid storage cavity; and at least one capillary element, located in the liquid transfer channel, and configured to adjust a flow rate of the liquid substrate delivered from the second liquid storage cavity to the first liquid storage cavity. The foregoing electronic atomization device can not only prevent the liquid source from flowing too fast to cause liquid leakage when replenishing the liquid substrate to the device body, but also release the liquid substrate to ensure a supply rate when the flow is slow.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of this application relate to the field of electronic atomization technologies, and in particular, to an electronic atomization device, a device body, and a liquid source.

BACKGROUND

Tobacco products (for example, cigarettes and cigars) burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts are made to replace these tobacco-burning products by manufacturing products that release compounds without burning.
An example of this type of products is a heating device that releases compounds by heating rather than burning materials. For example, the materials may be tobacco or other non-tobacco products, where the non-tobacco products may or may not include nicotine. In another example, there are aerosol-providing articles, for example, electronic atomization devices. These devices usually include a liquid, and the liquid is heated to vaporize, so as to generate an inhalable aerosol. The liquid may include nicotine, and/or aromatics, and/or aerosol-generation substances (such as glycerin). In an existing electronic atomization device, a reusable device body is replenished with a liquid substrate through an independent replaceable liquid source.

SUMMARY

An embodiment of this application provides an electronic atomization device, including:

a device body, and a liquid source that exists independently and is combined with the device body, where
the device body includes:
- a first liquid storage cavity, configured to store the liquid substrate; and
- an atomization assembly, configured to receive and atomize the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity to generate an aerosol;
- the liquid source includes a second liquid storage cavity, configured to store the liquid substrate;
- a liquid transfer channel, established between the liquid source and the device body and in communication with the first liquid storage cavity and the second liquid storage cavity when the liquid source is combined with the device body, where the liquid transfer channel is configured to provide a channel path for the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity to be delivered to the first liquid storage cavity, thereby replenishing the liquid substrate to the first liquid storage cavity; and
- at least one capillary element, located in the liquid transfer channel, and configured to adjust a flow rate of the liquid substrate delivered from the second liquid storage cavity to the first liquid storage cavity.

In some embodiments, the liquid source includes:

a liquid outlet, configured to allow the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity to flow out; and
a seal valve, capable of switching between a sealed state and an open state, where the seal valve is configured to: close or seal the liquid outlet in the sealed state, and open the liquid outlet in the open state, where when the liquid source is combined with the device body, the seal valve is capable of changing from the sealed state to the open state, thereby allowing the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity to flow into the liquid transfer channel through the liquid outlet.

In some embodiments, the device body includes:
a connector, where when the liquid source is combined with the device body, the connector is at least partially inserted into the liquid source, thereby driving the seal valve to change from the sealed state to the open state.
In some embodiments, the seal valve is arranged to be movable between a first position and a second position; the seal valve defines the sealed state at the first position and defines the open state at the second position; and
when the liquid source is combined with the device body, the seal valve is capable of moving from the first position to the second position.
In some embodiments, the seal valve includes:
a rupturable flexible seal portion, combined with the liquid outlet, where the flexible seal portion ruptures in response to the liquid source being combined with the device body, so that the seal valve changes from the sealed state to the open state.
In some embodiments, when the liquid source is combined with the device body, the seal valve at least partially provides sealing between the connector and the liquid source to prevent the liquid substrate from forming a leak therebetween.
In some embodiments, the connector is at least partially exposed outside the device body.
In some embodiments, the device body further includes:

a liquid holding element, arranged in the first liquid storage cavity, and configured to adsorb and hold the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity; and
the at least one capillary element is in contact with the liquid holding element.

In some embodiments, the capillary element includes:

a first capillary element, arranged on the device body; and
a second capillary element, arranged on the liquid source, where
when the liquid source is combined with the device body, the first capillary element and the second capillary element form liquid conduction with each other through contact.

In some embodiments, the at least one capillary element is at least partially accommodated in the seal valve; and/or
the at least one capillary element is at least partially accommodated in the connector.
In some embodiments, the at least one capillary element extends from an inside of the device body to an outside of the device body through the connector.
In some embodiments, the liquid transfer channel is substantially defined by the device body; or
a portion of the liquid transfer channel is defined by the device body and another portion is defined by the liquid source.
In some embodiments, a volume of the second liquid storage cavity is greater than a volume of the first liquid storage cavity; and/or

the first liquid storage cavity is capable of storing 0.5 to 3 mL of liquid substrate; and/or
the second liquid storage cavity is capable of storing 5 to 20 mL of liquid substrate.

In some embodiments, the device body includes:

a near end and a far end opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction;
the first liquid storage cavity includes a first side close to the near end and a second side close to the far end; and the liquid transfer channel is in communication with the first liquid storage cavity close to the second side.

Another embodiment of this application further provides a device body for an electronic atomization device, including a shell;

a first liquid storage cavity, configured to store a liquid substrate;
an atomization assembly, configured to receive and atomize the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity to generate an aerosol;
a holding space, defined by the shell and located on one side of the shell, and configured to accommodate or hold a liquid source;
a connector, extending at least partially from the shell into the holding space, and configured to connect to the liquid source accommodated or held in the holding space;
a liquid transfer channel, extending from the connector to the first liquid storage cavity, and configured to provide a channel path for replenishing a liquid substrate of the liquid source to the first liquid storage cavity; and
at least one capillary element, located in the liquid transfer channel, and configured to adjust a flow rate of the liquid substrate delivered through the liquid transfer channel.

Another embodiment of this application further provides an electronic atomization device, including:

a device body; and
an independent liquid source, combined with the device body, and configured to replenish a liquid substrate to the device body when combined with the device body, where
the device body includes:
- a first liquid storage cavity, configured to store the liquid substrate;
- an atomization assembly, configured to receive and atomize the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity to generate an aerosol; and
- a connector;
- the liquid source includes:
  - a second liquid storage cavity, configured to store the liquid substrate;
  - a liquid outlet, configured to allow the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity to flow out; and
  - a seal valve, to be movable between a first position and a second position, where the seal valve is configured to: close or seal the liquid outlet at the first position, and open the liquid outlet at the second position; and when the liquid source is combined with the device body, the seal valve is driven by the connector to change from the first position to the second position, thereby allowing the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity to replenish the liquid substrate through the liquid outlet to the first liquid storage cavity.

Another embodiment of this application further provides a liquid source for an electronic atomization device, including:

an outer body, defining an outer surface of the liquid source;
a second liquid storage cavity, configured to store a liquid substrate;
a liquid outlet, configured to allow the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity to flow out; a plug hole, defined by the outer body; and
a seal valve, located in the outer body, and capable of changing between a sealed state and an open state, where the seal valve is configured to: close or seal the liquid outlet in the sealed state, and open the liquid outlet in the open state; and during use, the seal valve is actuated by extending into the plug hole, thereby causing the seal valve to change from the sealed state to the open state.

The foregoing electronic atomization device can not only prevent the liquid source from flowing too fast to cause liquid leakage when replenishing the liquid substrate to the device body, but also release the liquid substrate to ensure a supply rate when the flow is slow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments are exemplarily described with reference to the corresponding figures in the accompanying drawings, and the exemplary descriptions are not to be construed as limiting the embodiments. Elements in the accompanying drawings that have same reference numerals are represented as similar elements, and unless otherwise particularly stated, the figures in the accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an electronic atomization device according to an embodiment;
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a liquid source in FIG. 1 before being combined with a device body;
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the liquid source in FIG. 2 before being combined with the device body;
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a liquid transfer mechanism of the liquid source in FIG. 3 at a first position;
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the liquid transfer mechanism of the liquid source in FIG. 4 at a second position;
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the liquid source being combined with the device body through user operation;
FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the liquid source in FIG. 6 after being combined with the device body;
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of some components of the device body after assembly;
FIG. 9 is a schematic exploded view of some components in FIG. 8 before assembly;
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an electronic atomization device according to another embodiment;
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a liquid source in FIG. 10 before being combined with a device body;
FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the liquid source in FIG. 11 before being combined with the device body; and
FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the liquid source in FIG. 12 after being combined with the device body.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For ease of understanding this application, this application is described below in more detail with reference to accompanying drawings and specific implementations.
This application provides an electronic atomization device, configured to atomize a liquid substrate to generate an aerosol. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are schematic diagrams of an electronic atomization device according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the electronic atomization device includes a device body 100 and a liquid source 200, where both the device body 100 and the liquid source 200 may exist independently and are combined with each other.
In an embodiment, the device body 100 is configured to atomize the liquid substrate to generate an aerosol, and the liquid source 200 is configured to replenish the liquid substrate to the device body 100 when combined with the device body 100. Before the liquid source 200 and the device body 100 are combined, the liquid source and the device body exist independently of each other; and
after the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100, the liquid source cannot be detached from the device body 100. After the liquid substrate inside the liquid source and the device body is consumed, the liquid source and the device body are recycled or discarded as a whole.
Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the device body 100 is configured to atomize a liquid substrate to generate an aerosol. The liquid source 200 is removably combined with the device body 100, and is configured to replenish the liquid substrate to the device body 100 when combined with the device body 100. The liquid source 200 may be replaced, and the device body 100 may be reused. After the liquid substrate in the liquid source 200 is replenished, a user may re-detach the liquid source 200 from the device body 100 and replace the liquid source 200 with a new one.
As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the device body 100 includes several components arranged in a shell 10 (which may be referred to as a housing). An overall design of the shell 10 may vary, and the type or configuration of the shell 10 that may define an overall size and the shape of the device body 100 may vary. Generally, the shell 10 may be formed by a single integrated housing, or the shell 10 may be formed by two or more separable bodies.
As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the shell 10 may include one or more reusable components. The shell 10 has a near end 110 and a far end 120 opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction. During use, the near end 110 is an end close to inhalation of the user; and the far end 120 is an end far away from the user. In some examples, all or only a portion of the shell 10 may be formed by a metal or alloy such as stainless steel or aluminum, or other suitable materials including various plastics (for example, polycarbonate), metal-plating over plastic, and ceramics.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the device body 100 further includes:

a first side 130 and a second side 140 arranged opposite to each other in a width direction; and
a holding space 150 defined on the second side 140 and close to the near end 110. During use, an exposed liquid source 200 can be combined with the device body 100 from the second side 140 or removed or detached from the second side 140 in the width direction of the device body 100.

As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the holding space 150 is partially surrounded and defined by the device body 100, so that the holding space 150 is open at both the near end 110 and the second side 140. When the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100, the liquid source 200 is exposed. In addition, when the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100, the liquid source 200 and the device body 100 jointly define an outer surface of the electronic atomization device.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the device body 100 further includes:

a rechargeable battery cell 160, configured to supply power, where the battery cell 160 is configured to be arranged extending in the width direction and arranged close to the far end 120; and in an embodiment, a direct-current power supply voltage provided by the battery cell 160 ranges from about 2.5 V to about 9.0 V, and an amperage of a direct current provided by the battery cell 160 ranges from about 2.5 A to about 20 A; and
an airflow sensor 170, for example, a microphone sensor or a MEMS sensor, configured to sense changes in an airflow flowing through the device body 100 when the user inhales, so as to control output power of the battery cell 160. In some embodiments, the airflow sensor 170 is a high-end microphone that integrates a plurality of functions such as power output control and airflow sensing. Further, in the embodiments, there is no separate main control circuit board, for example, an FPC board or a PCB board, in the device body 100.

As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the device body 100 further includes:

an air outlet 111, configured for a user to inhale, where the air outlet 111 is located at the near end 110; and
an aerosol output tube 112, arranged from the air outlet 111 towards the far end 120, and configured to deliver an aerosol to the air outlet 111. In an embodiment, the aerosol output tube 112 is integrally molded with the shell 10.

As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the device body 100 further includes:

a first tubular element 21, and a second tubular element 22 located in the first tubular element 21, where the first tubular element 21 and the second tubular element 22 are coaxially arranged and extend in the longitudinal direction of the device body 100; and a first liquid storage cavity is formed or defined between the first tubular element 21 and the second tubular element 22, and is configured to store the liquid substrate; and
a liquid holding element 23, arranged in the first liquid storage cavity between the first tubular element 21 and the second tubular element 22, where the liquid holding element 23 is made of a flexible or rigid porous material or fiber material, and is configured to absorb and hold the liquid substrate stored in the first liquid storage cavity; and the liquid holding element 23 and/or the first liquid storage cavity are substantially annular in shape.

In some embodiments, the first tubular element 21 and/or the second tubular element 22 are made of rigid ceramics, stainless steel, polymer plastics, or the like.
In some embodiments, the liquid holding element 23 may be made of rigid porous materials such as porous ceramics or porous glass, or may be made of flexible porous fibers such as a porous cotton fiber, porous non-woven fabrics, or a porous sponge.
In some embodiments, there is a gap between the liquid holding element 23 and a first seal element 24 after assembly, and the gap approximately ranges from 0.5 mm to 2 mm. The gap between the liquid holding element 23 and the first seal element 24 is connected to external air through pores of an absorbing element 25. In this way, during use, when the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity is gradually consumed, the external air can enter the gap between the liquid holding element 23 and the first seal element 24 to relieve or eliminate a negative pressure in the first liquid storage cavity.
An atomization assembly is in the liquid holding element 23 and/or the first liquid storage cavity, and is in fluid communication with the liquid holding element 23 and/or the first liquid storage cavity, and is further configured to absorb and atomize the liquid substrate to generate an aerosol. As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the atomization assembly includes:
a liquid guide element 30 and a heating element 40 combined with the liquid guide element 30.
In this embodiment, the liquid guide element 30 is flexible, for example, made of flexible fibers such as a cotton fiber, non-woven fabrics, or a sponge. The liquid guide element 30 is configured in a tubular or cylindrical shape arranged in a longitudinal direction of the shell 10. The liquid guide element 30 is coaxial with the liquid holding element 23 and/or the second tubular element 22, and is located in the liquid holding element 23 and/or the second tubular element 22. Alternatively, in some optional embodiments, the liquid guide element 30 may further include a rigid porous element, and the like, for example, porous ceramics or porous glass. An outer surface of the liquid guide element 30 is in fluid communication with the liquid holding element 23 and/or the first liquid storage cavity, and the outer surface of the liquid guide element 30 is further configured to absorb the liquid substrate from the liquid holding element 23 and/or the first liquid storage cavity, as shown by arrows R1 in FIG. 7.
In some embodiments, the liquid guide element 30 is surrounded and held by the liquid holding element 23, and is in contact with the liquid holding element 23 to form fluid communication. Alternatively, in still some other embodiments, the liquid guide element 30 is held in the second tubular element 22, and a plurality of through holes are arranged on the second tubular element 22. The liquid guide element 30 absorbs the liquid substrate from the liquid holding element 23 and/or the first liquid storage cavity through the through holes on the second tubular element 22.
An inner surface of the liquid guide element 30 in a radial direction is configured as an atomization surface, and the atomization surface is combined/fitted/abutted with the heating element 40. Then, after the liquid substrate is transferred to the atomization surface, the liquid substrate is heated and atomized by the heating element 40 to generate an aerosol and release the aerosol. Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the heating element 40 is arranged to extend in a longitudinal direction of the liquid guide element 30, and the heating element 40 is coaxially arranged with the liquid guide element 30. In some optional embodiments, the heating element 40 is a resistive heating mesh, a resistive heating coil, or the like. In this embodiment, the heating element 40 is a heating element wound from a sheet-like or mesh-like substrate. Conductive pins are welded or arranged at two ends of the heating element 40 and are connected to the airflow sensor 170 through conductive leads, to be controlled by the airflow sensor 170 to guide a current on the heating element 40.
In still some optional embodiments, the heating element 40 may be combined on the liquid guide element 30 by printing, deposition, sintering, physical assembly, or the like. In some other optional implementations, the liquid guide element 30 may have a plane or curved surface for supporting the heating element 40, and the heating element 40 is formed on the plane or curved surface of the liquid guide element 30 by mounting, printing, deposition, or the like. Alternatively, in still some optional embodiments, the heating element 40 is a conductive trajectory formed on a surface of the liquid guide element 30. In still some optional embodiments, the conductive trajectory of the heating element 40 may be in the form of printed wiring formed by printing. In still some optional embodiments, the heating element 40 is a patterned conductive trajectory. In still some embodiments, the heating element 40 is planar.
In still some optional embodiments, the heating element 40 is a conductive trajectory extending in a circuitous, winding, reciprocating, or bending manner.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the device body 100 further includes:

a flexible first seal element 24, made of, for example, flexible silicone or thermoplastic elastomer, where the first seal element 24 is combined or arranged at first end portions of the first tubular element 21 and the second tubular element 22 towards the near end 110 to close or seal the first liquid storage cavity at the first end portions of the first tubular element and the second tubular element; and
a flexible second seal element 51, made of, for example, flexible silicone or thermoplastic elastomer, where the second seal element 51 is combined or arranged at second end portions of the first tubular element 21 and the second tubular element 22 towards the far end 120 to close or seal the first liquid storage cavity at the second end portions of the first tubular element and the second tubular element.

As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the airflow sensor 170 is accommodated and held in the second seal element 51. The device body 100 further includes:
a support element 52, at least partially located on the second seal element 51, and configured to support the airflow sensor 170 in the second seal element 51.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the device body 100 further includes:

an air inlet, defined by a hole or an assembly gap on the surface of the shell 10, and configured for air to enter during inhalation; and
an airflow channel, defining an airflow path from the air inlet through the atomization assembly to the air outlet 111 to deliver the aerosol to the air outlet 111. As shown in FIG. 7, the airflow channel is jointly defined by a plurality of components.

As shown in FIG. 9, the support element 52 is provided with a first air hole 521, and the second seal element 51 is provided with a second air hole 511 aligned with the first air hole 521. After assembly, the second air hole 511 is aligned with an annular middle hole of the liquid guide element 30.
As shown by an arrow R2 in FIG. 7, during inhalation, air entering the device body 100 sequentially passes through the first air hole 521 of the support element 52 and the second air hole 511 of the second seal element 51, then enters the annular middle hole of the liquid guide element 30, and then carries the aerosol generated by the heating element 40 to output the aerosol to the air outlet 111 through the second tubular element 22 and the aerosol output tube 112 for the user to inhale.
In some embodiments, there is a gap or void between the second seal element 51 and the support element 52. The airflow sensor 170 is accommodated and held between the second seal element 51 and the support element 52, and is in airflow communication with the airflow channel through the gap therebetween, so as to sense changes in an airflow flowing through the device body 100 when the user inhales.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the device body 100 further includes:
a porous absorbing element 25, made of, for example, a flexible porous fiber material such as fiber cotton. The absorbing element 25 is accommodated and held in the first seal element 24. After assembly, the aerosol output tube 112 extends from the air outlet 111 to the absorbing element 25 and abuts against and ends at the absorbing element 25. In addition, after assembly, the aerosol output tube 112 is located between the second tubular element 22 and the aerosol output tube 112. According to an aspect, the absorbing element 25 is configured to absorb aerosol condensate in the air flow delivered to the aerosol output tube 112 during inhalation. According to another aspect, the absorbing element 25 can also absorb aerosol condensate falling from an inner surface of the aerosol output tube 112.
In FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the absorbing element 25 is arranged essentially in an annular sheet-like shape. In addition, the airflow channel passes through the absorbing element 25.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the device body 100 further includes:
a connector 151, at least partially penetrating or extending from the device body 100 to the holding space 150, where the connector 151 is arranged for connection of the liquid source 200 to establish fluid communication between the liquid source 200 and the first liquid storage cavity and/or the liquid holding element 23 of the device body 100, so that the liquid source 200 replenishes the liquid substrate to the device body 100. The connector 151 is basically configured in a hollow tubular shape. A sealing ring 152 is arranged on the connector 151 to provide sealing between the connector 151 and the liquid source 200 when the connector 151 is inserted into the liquid source 200.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the first tubular element 21 has a connecting portion 28 extending towards the second side 140. One end of the connector 151 surrounds and is combined with the connecting portion 28, so that the connector 151 is connected and fixed with the first tubular element 21 through the connecting portion 28 and is in communication with the first liquid storage cavity and/or the liquid holding element 23. After assembly, the connector 151 is at least partially exposed in the holding space 150, and the connector 151 has an opening 153 exposed from the holding space 150.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, in the width direction of the device body 100, the connector 151 is at least partially aligned with the liquid guide element 30. In addition, the connector 151 is in fluid communication with the first liquid storage cavity and/or a side of the liquid holding element 23 close to the second seal element 51.
As shown in FIG. 4 to FIG. 7, the connector 151 is further provided with:
a first capillary element 154, located in the connector 151. The first capillary element 154 extends at least partially to the first liquid storage cavity; or the first capillary element 154 at least partially abuts or is in contact with the liquid holding element 23.
In some embodiments, the first capillary element 154 includes or is made of a flexible fiber such as a cotton fiber, non-woven fabrics, or a sponge. During use, when the liquid substrate of the liquid source 200 flows to the first liquid storage cavity and/or the liquid holding element 23 through the connector 151, the first capillary element 154 can adsorb and cache the liquid substrate through capillary to adjust a flow rate of the liquid substrate from the liquid source 200 to the first liquid storage cavity and/or the liquid holding element 23, which can not only prevent the liquid substrate from flowing too fast to cause liquid leakage, but also release the liquid substrate to ensure a supply rate when the liquid substrate flows slowly. In addition, since there is an air pressure difference between the first liquid storage cavity and the second liquid storage cavity 214 of the liquid source 200 during inhalation, the first capillary element 154 hysteretically replenishes the air in the first liquid storage cavity to the second liquid storage cavity 214 of the liquid source 200 during inhalation of the device body 100 or after the inhalation is completed. The air passes through micropores of the first capillary element 154 to generate bubbles in the liquid source 200, thereby facilitating the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214 of the liquid source 200 to reach the first liquid storage cavity from the liquid transfer channel.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, to facilitate the air in the first liquid storage cavity to pass through the first capillary element 154, one side of the liquid holding element 23 is provided with a groove or an air groove 29 extending in the longitudinal direction. After assembly, the air channel is defined by the groove or air groove 29 and is formed between the liquid holding element 23 and the inner surface of the first tubular element 21. In addition, after assembly, the first capillary element 154 is at least partially opposite and in communication with the groove or air groove 29.
In this way, when the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100, the air in the first liquid storage cavity enters the second liquid storage cavity 214 through the groove or air groove 29 and the micropores in the first capillary element 154. In some embodiments, an upper end of the groove or air groove 29 is in communication with the gap between the liquid holding element 23 and the first seal element 24; and a lower end of the air channel defined by the groove or air groove 29 is in communication with the first capillary element 154. Alternatively, in the longitudinal direction of the device body, the air channel defined by the groove or air groove 29 is arranged to extend between the first capillary element 154 and the gap between the liquid holding element 23 and the first seal element 24.
As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the liquid source 200 includes:

an outer body 210, defining a housing or an outer surface of the liquid source 200, where the outer body 210 is jointly defined by a first housing portion 211 and a second housing portion 212;
a flexible seal element 213, at least partially located between the first housing portion 211 and the second housing portion 212 to provide sealing between the first housing portion 211 and the second housing portion 212;
a second liquid storage cavity 214, configured to store the liquid substrate; and
a plug hole 220 defined on the second housing portion 212, where when the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100, the connector 151 is inserted into the plug hole 220, to further establish liquid communication between the second liquid storage cavity 214 of the liquid source 200 and the first liquid storage cavity of the device body 100, so that the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214 is replenished or flows to the first liquid storage cavity of the device body 100.

As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, the liquid source 200 further includes:
a liquid transfer mechanism 230, movably arranged in the liquid source 200, and to be movable between a first position and a second position. FIG. 4 and FIG. 6 are schematic diagrams of a liquid transfer mechanism 230 at a first position. At the first position, the liquid transfer mechanism 230 prevents the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214 from leaving or flowing out. In addition, FIG. 5 and FIG. 7 are schematic diagrams of a liquid transfer mechanism 230 at a second position. At the second position, the liquid transfer mechanism 230 allows the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214 from leaving or flowing out.
Specifically, the liquid transfer mechanism 230 is at least partially located in the plug hole 220 at the first position. When the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100, the connector 151 can be inserted into the plug hole 220 to actuate the liquid transfer mechanism 230, so that the liquid transfer mechanism 230 is moved from the first position to the second position, as shown by an arrow P1 in FIG. 7. The liquid transfer mechanism 230 is movable in the width direction of the liquid source 200 from the first position to the second position.
In addition, during use, the user can operate the liquid source 200 on the second side 140 and perform pressing operation on the liquid source 200 towards the first side 130 when the plug hole 220 is aligned with the connector 151, as shown by an arrow P2 in FIG. 6, so that the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100.
In some optional embodiments, structures such as a guide rail or a sliding groove exposed to the holding space 150 are also arranged on the device body 100. The guide rail or sliding groove may, for example, be horizontally arranged. When the liquid source 200 moves from the second side 140 of the device body 100 towards the first side 130 and is combined with the holding space 150, the liquid source 200 provides guidance on the guide rail or sliding groove. In addition, when the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100, the liquid source 200 is at least partially embedded or extended into the guide rail or sliding groove to form a snap connection, thereby preventing separation such as falling during use.
As shown in FIG. 4 to FIG. 7, the liquid transfer mechanism 230 includes:
a substantially cylindrical seal valve 231, through holes 232 provided on a wall of the seal valve 231; and a second capillary element 233, located in the seal valve 231.
The seal valve 231 is movable from the first position to the second position, to change from a closed state to an open state. The seal valve 231 prevents the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214 from flowing out in the closed state, and allows the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214 from flowing out in the open state. Specifically, the seal valve 231 turns off fluid communication between the second capillary element 233 and the second liquid storage cavity 214 in the closed state; and the seal valve 231 turns on fluid communication between the second capillary element 233 and the second liquid storage cavity 214 in the open state.
In some embodiments, the second capillary element 233 includes or is made of a flexible fiber such as a cotton fiber, non-woven fabrics, or a sponge.
When the liquid transfer mechanism 230 is at the first position, the through hole 232 of the seal valve 231 does not extend into the second liquid storage cavity 214, the second capillary element 233 is liquid-isolated from the second liquid storage cavity 214, and the seal valve 231 closes or seals the second liquid storage cavity 214. When the liquid transfer mechanism 230 moves to the second position, the seal valve 231 at least partially extends into the second liquid storage cavity 214, and the through hole 232 of the seal valve 231 is exposed to the second liquid storage cavity 214, so that the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214 can flow through the through hole 232 to the second capillary element 233 and be absorbed, as shown by an arrow R31 in FIG. 5 and FIG. 7.
During use, when the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214 flows to the device body 100 through the seal valve 231, the second capillary element 233 can adsorb and cache the liquid substrate through capillary to adjust a flow rate of the liquid substrate from the liquid source 200 to the first liquid storage cavity and/or the liquid holding element 23, which can not only prevent the liquid substrate from flowing too fast to cause liquid leakage, but also release the liquid substrate to ensure a supply rate when the liquid substrate flows slowly.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, when the liquid source 200 is combined with the device body 100, the first capillary element 154 is in contact with the second capillary element 233, so that the first capillary element and the second capillary element adjust the flow rate of the liquid substrate in the liquid transfer channel established at the connector 151 and the seal valve 231.
In some embodiments, a volume of the first liquid storage cavity in the device body 100 is smaller than a volume of the second liquid storage cavity 214 of the liquid source 200. An amount of liquid substrate that the first liquid storage cavity can absorb and store is less than an amount of liquid substrate that the second liquid storage cavity 214 of the liquid source 200 can absorb and store.
For example, in some specific embodiments, the first liquid storage cavity in the device body 100 can absorb and store 0.5 to 3 mL of liquid substrate, more specifically, for example, 2 mL; and the second liquid storage cavity 214 of the liquid source 200 can store 5 to 20 mL of liquid substrate, more specifically, for example, 10 mL.
FIG. 10 to FIG. 13 are schematic diagrams of an electronic atomization device according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the electronic atomization device includes:
a device body 100a, and a liquid source 200a removably combined with the device body 100a, where the liquid source 200a is configured to replenish a liquid substrate to the device body 100a.
As shown in FIG. 10 to FIG. 13, the device body 100a includes:

a shell 10a, having a near end 110a and a far end 120a opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction, and a first side 130a and a second side 140a opposite to each other in a width direction, where the shell 10a defines a holding space 150a on the second side 140a and is configured to combine the liquid source 200a;
a first liquid storage cavity, configured to store a liquid substrate, where the first liquid storage cavity is defined between the first tubular element 21a and the second tubular element 22a; and a liquid holding element 23a is arranged in the first liquid storage cavity, and configured to absorb and hold the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity;
an atomization assembly, including a liquid guide element 30a and a heating element 40a, where an outer surface of the liquid guide element 30a is configured as a liquid absorbing surface, and is configured to absorb the liquid substrate from the first liquid storage cavity and/or the liquid holding element 23a, as shown by an arrow R1 in FIG. 13; and the heating element 40a is combined with an inner surface of the liquid guide element 30a, and is configured to heat at least part of the liquid substrate in the liquid guide element 30a to generate an aerosol;
a first seal element 24a, combined with first end portions of the first tubular element 21a and the second tubular element 22a towards the near end 110a, and configured to seal the first liquid storage cavity at the first end portions of the first tubular element and the second tubular element, where an absorbing element 25a made of porous material is arranged in the first seal element 24a;
a second seal element 51a, combined with second end portions of the first tubular element 21a and the second tubular element 22a towards the far end 120a, and configured to seal the first liquid storage cavity at the second end portions of the first tubular element and the second tubular element; an air outlet 111a, located at the near end 110a;
an aerosol output tube 112a, extending longitudinally from the air outlet 111a to the absorbing element 25a, configured to output the aerosol to the air outlet 111a;
a battery cell 160a, arranged close to the far end 120a; and
an airflow sensor 170a, arranged in the support element 52a in the second seal element 51a, and configured to sense changes in an airflow flowing through the device body 100a during inhalation, where the airflow sensor 170a also integrates a power output control function and is further configured to guide a current between the battery cell 160a and the heating element 40a.

In some embodiments, the airflow channel of the device body 100a is jointly defined by a plurality of components, and is configured to define an airflow path for air to pass through the device body 100a and deliver the aerosol to the air outlet 111a. An air inlet is defined in an assembly gap or hole of the shell 10a of the device body 100a, and is configured to allow external air to enter during inhalation. According to the airflow path shown by an arrow R2 in FIG. 13, air entering the device body 100a sequentially passes through the support element 52a and the second seal element 51a, then reaches a middle hole of the liquid guide element 30a, and carries the aerosol and is outputted from the second tubular element 22a and the aerosol output tube 112a to the air outlet 111a. The absorbing element 25a is configured to absorb aerosol condensate of the air delivered to the air outlet 111a, or absorb aerosol condensate falling from an inner surface of the aerosol output tube 112a.
As shown in FIG. 10 to FIG. 13, the device body 100a further includes:

a connector 151a, at least partially exposed in the holding space 150a, and configured for the liquid source 200a to be combined or inserted into the liquid source 200a to replenish the liquid substrate to the device body 100a; and
an elbow 155a, defining a liquid replenishment channel inside, connecting the connector 151a with the first liquid storage cavity, and configured to provide a channel path for the liquid substrate to flow from the connector 151a to the first liquid storage cavity. The elbow 155a is connected and fixed with the first tubular element 21a through a connecting portion extending from the first tubular element 21a, and is in communication with the first liquid storage cavity.

In this embodiment, the elbow 155a is at least partially bent and is located between the battery cell 160a and the holding space 150a. The connector 151a is extended in the longitudinal direction and is connected to an end of the elbow 155a away from the first liquid storage cavity. The connector 151a extends from the shell 10a of the device body 100a in the longitudinal direction to the holding space 150a and is exposed to the holding space 150a.
A first capillary element 154a is arranged in the connector 151a and/or the elbow 155a, and configured to adjust a transfer rate of the liquid substrate in the liquid replenishment channel. The first capillary element 154a extends from the connector 151a through the elbow 155a to the first liquid storage cavity or the liquid holding element 23a.
In some embodiments, the first capillary element 154a may be formed by a component of capillary material that is sequentially bent and passed through the connector 151a and the elbow 155a. Alternatively, in still some other embodiments, the first capillary element 154a may be formed or bounded by two components of capillary material. For example, one capillary material passes through a part of the elbow 155a in the width direction, another capillary material passes through the connector 151a and another part of the elbow 155a in the longitudinal direction, and then the two capillary materials abut and are in contact with each other at a bent portion of the elbow 155a to form the first capillary element 154a.
In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10 to FIG. 13, the liquid source 200a includes:

an outer body 210a, including a housing or an outer surface defining the liquid source 200a, where the outer body 210a is jointly defined by a first housing portion 211a and a second housing portion 212a;
a flexible seal element 213a, at least partially located between the first housing portion 211a and the second housing portion 212a to provide sealing between the first housing portion 211a and the second housing portion 212a; and
a second liquid storage cavity 214a, configured to store the liquid substrate.

In this embodiment, a liquid outlet 2141a is defined on the second housing portion 212a to output the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214a; and a flexible seal valve 231a is further arranged in the second housing portion 212a. The seal valve 231a includes:

a plug hole 232a, where when the liquid source 200a is combined with the device body 100a, the connector 151a of the device body 100a can be inserted into the plug hole 232a; and
a seal portion 233a, blocking and sealing the liquid outlet 2141a, where when the liquid source 200a is combined with the device body 100a, the seal portion 233a can be punctured by the connector 151 of the device body 100a inserted from the plug hole 232a, thereby opening the liquid outlet 2141a. For example, FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of blocking and sealing the liquid outlet 2141a before the seal portion 233a is punctured; and FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the seal portion 233a after punctured by the connector 151a of the device body 100a.

As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, in this embodiment, the first capillary element 154a is at least partially extended to and exposed outside the device body 100a through the connector 151a. Then, after the connector 151a punctures or passes through the seal portion 233a, the first capillary element 154a at least partially extends into the second liquid storage cavity 214a of the liquid source 200a. A length of the first capillary element 154a exposed outside the device body 100a approximately ranges from 3 mm to 6 mm.
In this embodiment, when the liquid source 200a is combined with the device body 100a, the connector 151a punctures or passes through the seal portion 233a and establishes the liquid transfer channel with the elbow 155a between the first liquid storage cavity and the second liquid storage cavity 214a, so as to replenish the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity 214a to the first liquid storage cavity. The first capillary element 154a adsorbs and caches the liquid substrate through capillary in the liquid transfer channel to adjust the flow rate of the liquid substrate from the liquid source 200a to the first liquid storage cavity and/or the liquid holding element 23a, which can not only prevent the liquid substrate from flowing too fast to cause liquid leakage, but also release the liquid substrate to ensure a supply rate when the liquid substrate flows slowly.
As shown in FIG. 10 to FIG. 13, when the liquid source 200a is combined with the device body 100a, after the connector 151a punctures or passes through the seal portion 233a, the seal valve 231a is partially located between the connector 151a and the outer body 210a and provides sealing to prevent liquid leakage from forming a gap between the connector 151a and the outer body 210a.
As shown in FIG. 10 to FIG. 13, in this embodiment, the shell 10a of the device body 100a is also provided with a clamping hole 180a; and the outer body 210a of the liquid source 200a is also provided with a convex 215a. According to an aspect, the clamping hole 180a and the convex 215a are aligned to provide positioning or alignment guidance when the liquid source 200a is combined with the device body 100a. According to still another aspect, when the liquid source 200a is combined with the device body 100a, the convex 215a can extend into the clamping hole 180a to form a connection with the shell 10a of the device body 100a, so that the liquid source 200a can be stably connected to the device body 100a to prevent the liquid source and the device body from loosening or separating.
It should be noted that, the specification of this application and the accompanying drawings thereof illustrate preferred embodiments of this application, but this application is not limited to the embodiments described in the specification. Further, a person of ordinary skill in the art may make improvements or variations according to the foregoing description, and all the improvements and variations shall fall within the protection scope of the appended claims of this application.

Claims

An electronic atomization device, comprising:
a device body (100), and a liquid source (200) that exists independently and is combined with the device body (100), wherein

the device body (100) comprises:
a first liquid storage cavity, configured to store a liquid substrate; and

an atomization assembly, configured to receive and atomize the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity to generate an aerosol; and

the liquid source (200) comprises a second liquid storage cavity (214,214a), configured to store the liquid substrate;

a liquid transfer channel, established between the liquid source (200) and the device body (100) and in communication with the first liquid storage cavity and the second liquid storage cavity (214,214a) when the liquid source (200) is combined with the device body (100), wherein the liquid transfer channel is configured to provide a channel path for the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity (214,214a) to be delivered to the first liquid storage cavity, thereby replenishing the liquid substrate to the first liquid storage cavity; and

at least one capillary element (154, 154a, 233), located in the liquid transfer channel, and configured to adjust a flow rate of the liquid substrate delivered from the second liquid storage cavity (214,214a) to the first liquid storage cavity.
The electronic atomization device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid source (200) comprises:
a liquid outlet (2141a), configured to allow the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity (214,214a) to flow out; and

a seal valve (231,231a), capable of switching between a sealed state and an open state, wherein the seal valve(231,231a) is configured to: close or seal the liquid outlet (2141a) in the sealed state, and open the liquid outlet (2141a) in the open state, wherein when the liquid source (200) is combined with the device body (100), the seal valve (231,231a) is capable of changing from the sealed state to the open state, thereby allowing the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity (214,214a) to flow into the liquid transfer channel through the liquid outlet (2141a).
The electronic atomization device according to claim 2, wherein the device body (100) comprises:
a connector (151,151a), wherein when the liquid source (200) is combined with the device body (100), the connector (151,151a) is at least partially inserted into the liquid source (200), thereby driving the seal valve (231,231a) to change from the sealed state to the open state.
The electronic atomization device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the seal valve (231) is arranged to be movable between a first position and a second position; the seal valve (231) defines the sealed state at the first position and defines the open state at the second position; and
when the liquid source (200) is combined with the device body (100), the seal valve (231) is capable of moving from the first position to the second position.
The electronic atomization device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the seal valve (231a) comprises:
a rupturable flexible seal portion, combined with the liquid outlet (2141a), wherein the flexible seal portion ruptures in response to the liquid source (200) being combined with the device body (100), so that the seal valve (231a) changes from the sealed state to the open state.
The electronic atomization device according to claim 3, wherein when the liquid source (200) is combined with the device body (100), the seal valve (231,231a) at least partially provides sealing between the connector (151,151a) and the liquid source (200) to prevent the liquid substrate from forming a leak therebetween; and/or the connector (151,151a) is at least partially exposed outside the device body (100).
The electronic atomization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the device body (100) further comprises:
a liquid holding element (23,23a), arranged in the first liquid storage cavity, and configured to adsorb and hold the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity; and

the at least one capillary element (154, 154a, 233) is in contact with the liquid holding element (23,23a).
The electronic atomization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the capillary element (154, 154a, 233) comprises:
a first capillary element (154,154a), arranged on the device body (100); and

a second capillary element (233), arranged on the liquid source (200), wherein

when the liquid source (200) is combined with the device body (100), the first capillary element (154,154a) and the second capillary element (233) form liquid conduction with each other through contact.
The electronic atomization device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one capillary element (154, 154a, 233) is at least partially accommodated in the seal valve (231,231a); and/or
the at least one capillary element (154, 154a, 233) is at least partially accommodated in the connector (151,151a).
The electronic atomization device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one capillary element (154, 154a, 233) extends from an inside of the device body (100) to an outside of the device body (100) through the connector (151,151a).
The electronic atomization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the liquid transfer channel is substantially defined by the device body (100); or
a portion of the liquid transfer channel is defined by the device body (100) and another portion is defined by the liquid source (200).
The electronic atomization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a volume of the second liquid storage cavity (214,214a) is greater than a volume of the first liquid storage cavity; and/or
the first liquid storage cavity is capable of storing 0.5 to 3 mL of liquid substrate; and/or

the second liquid storage cavity (214,214a) is capable of storing 5 to 20 mL of liquid substrate.
The electronic atomization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the device body (100) comprises:
a near end (110, 110a) and a far end (120,120a) opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction;

the first liquid storage cavity comprises a first side (130,130a) close to the near end (110,110a) and a second side (140,140a) close to the far end (120,120a); and the liquid transfer channel is in communication with the first liquid storage cavity close to the second side (140).
A device body (100) for an electronic atomization device, comprising a shell;
a first liquid storage cavity, configured to store a liquid substrate;

an atomization assembly, configured to receive and atomize the liquid substrate in the first liquid storage cavity to generate an aerosol;

a holding space, defined by the shell and located on one side of the shell, and configured to accommodate or hold a liquid source (200);

a connector (151,151a), extending at least partially from the shell into the holding space, and configured to connect to the liquid source (200) accommodated or held in the holding space;

a liquid transfer channel, extending from the connector (151,151a) to the first liquid storage cavity, and configured to provide a channel path for replenishing a liquid substrate of the liquid source (200) to the first liquid storage cavity; and

at least one capillary element (154, 154a, 233), located in the liquid transfer channel, and configured to adjust a flow rate of the liquid substrate delivered through the liquid transfer channel.
A liquid source (200) for an electronic atomization device, comprising:
an outer body (210,210a), defining an outer surface of the liquid source (200);

a second liquid storage cavity (214,214a), configured to store a liquid substrate;

a liquid outlet (2141a), configured to allow the liquid substrate in the second liquid storage cavity (214,214a) to flow out;

a plug hole (220,232a), defined by the outer body (210,210a); and

a seal valve (231,231a), located in the outer body (210,210a), and capable of changing between a sealed state and an open state, wherein the seal valve (231,231a) is configured to: close or seal the liquid outlet (2141a) in the sealed state, and open the liquid outlet (2141a) in the open state; and during use, the seal valve (231,231a) is actuated by extending into the plug hole (220,232a), thereby causing the seal valve (231,231a) to change from the sealed state to the open state.