JP2023516948A - aerosol generator - Google Patents

Abstract

A device (1) for aerosol generation is described. The apparatus for aerosol generation comprises a housing (10) and a tubular heating chamber (20) configured to receive an aerosol substrate, the heating chamber being operable to heat the aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol. It is possible a tubular heating chamber (20), an elongated battery (30) and a frame (60) in a housing, wherein the first end (21) of the tubular heating chamber is the first end of the battery. a frame facing an end (31) of the and configured to hold the battery and the heating chamber within the frame such that the heating chamber and the battery are aligned end-to-end within the housing; Including, the frame includes a partition (61) positioned between the first end of the battery and the first end of the adjacent heating chamber. By providing a tubular heating chamber and an elongated battery aligned end-to-end within the housing, the surface area of the thermal interface between the heating chamber and the battery is greatly reduced, thereby transferring heat to the battery. decreases. This also allows for a more compact and user-friendly configuration, but without the increased heat transfer to the battery that normally accompanies reducing the size of the device.

Description

The present disclosure relates to aerosol generators. The present disclosure is particularly applicable to portable aerosol generating devices that can be self-contained and cryogenic. Such devices may heat tobacco or other suitable aerosol-based material by conduction, convection and/or radiation rather than by burning to generate an aerosol for inhalation.

The popularity and use of risk-reducing or risk-modifying devices (also known as vaporizers) assists habitual smokers who wish to quit smoking conventional tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, and cigarettes. It has grown rapidly over the last few years as a way to help Various devices and systems are available that heat an aerosolizable substance to release a vapor for inhalation rather than relying on burning tobacco.

Commonly available risk reduction or risk modification devices are heated substrate aerosol generators or heated non-combustion devices. Devices of this type produce an aerosol or vapor by heating an aerosol substrate, typically comprising moist tobacco or other suitable aerosolizable material, to a temperature typically in the range of 150°C to 300°C. occurs. By heating the aerosol substrate rather than burning or burning it, an aerosol is released that contains the components desired by the user but is free of the toxic and carcinogenic by-products of combustion and combustion. Additionally, aerosols produced by heating tobacco or other aerosolizable materials typically do not contain a burnt or bitter taste resulting from combustion and burning, which can be unpleasant to the user. Thus, the substrate does not require sugars and other additives typically added to such materials to make smoke and/or vapors more palatable to the user.

Known aerosol-generating devices typically include a heating chamber for receiving a consumable aerosol-generating substrate, a power supply, and control circuitry for controlling the power supply from the power supply to the heating chamber. One known problem with such devices is that the inevitable proximity of the power supply and control circuitry to the heating chamber within the device can result in unwanted heating of the power supply and electronics. . Such heating can damage these heat sensitive electronic components and in some cases can result in fire or explosion if components not designed to be heated become too hot. It can be risky and even dangerous.

Also, although there is a growing motivation to provide more compact and easy-to-use devices for aerosol generation, reducing the size of such devices necessarily brings sensitive electronic components closer to the heat source, reducing the need for thermal management as described above. problems worsen.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to address the above mentioned problems and to provide a device for aerosol generation with improved thermal management, while still being compact and easy to use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In a first aspect of the invention, a housing and a tubular heating chamber configured to receive an aerosol substrate, the heating chamber being operable to heat the aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol. , a heating chamber, an elongated battery, and a frame within a housing, wherein a first end of the tubular heating chamber faces a first end of the battery, and the heating chamber and the battery end within the housing. a frame configured to hold the battery and the heating chamber within the frame in side-to-side alignment, the frame being positioned at the first end of the battery and the adjacent heating chamber; An aerosol-generating device is provided that includes a septum disposed between one end. By providing a tubular heating chamber and an elongated battery aligned end-to-end within the housing, the surface area of the thermal interface between the heating chamber and the battery is greatly reduced, thereby transferring heat to the battery. decreases. This also allows for a more compact and user-friendly configuration, but without the increased heat transfer to the battery that normally accompanies reducing the size of the device.

The phrase "end-to-end aligned" defines that the elongate battery and tubular heating chamber are substantially longitudinally aligned within the housing. The long axis of the tubular heating chamber and the long axis of the battery may be axially aligned, or may be offset from axial alignment, for example, with the long axis offset in a direction perpendicular to the long axis. The long axes may be equally angled with respect to each other, but it is preferred that the long axes are parallel.

Preferably, the first end of the tubular heating chamber adjoins the first end of the battery. In some examples, a gap separates the first end of the tubular heating chamber and the first end of the battery.

The tubular heating chamber preferably has an open end configured to receive the aerosol-generating substrate, the first end of the heating chamber preferably being the end opposite the open end. is. Preferably the first end is closed. Preferably, the first end of the heating chamber faces the first end of the battery.

In the following disclosure, "heating chamber" may be used to refer to a composite article that includes an inner tubular heating chamber (or heating cup) and an outer insulating housing in which the tubular heating chamber is encased. The tubular heating chamber preferably includes a heating cup having an open end and a closed end for receiving consumables. Preferably, a thin film heater is wrapped around the outer surface of the heating cup, and the heating cup and thin film heater are disposed within a thermally insulating sleeve, preferably a vacuum tube (or other form of insulating tubing).

Preferably, the aerosol-generating device includes a frame within the housing configured to hold one or both of the battery and the heating chamber within the frame. In this way, the tubular heating chamber and/or the heating chamber can be securely held in place within the housing of the device. Additionally, the provision of the frame allows the components to be held in a precise and reproducible position so that the components are precisely positioned to reduce heat transfer to sensitive electronic components such as batteries. Aids in thermal management by allowing the

The frame preferably holds the heating chamber and/or the battery such that the heating chamber and/or the battery do not come into contact with the housing of the device. Preferably, the frame is configured to provide a gap between the first end of the heating chamber and the first end of the battery.

The frame includes a partition positioned between the first end of the battery and the first end of the adjacent heating chamber. The partition preferably includes a thermal barrier positioned between the first end of the battery and the first end of the adjacent heating chamber. Preferably, the partition is a flat component extending across the internal cross-section of the housing and dividing the first end of the battery and the first end of the adjacent heating chamber. The partition increases the heat transfer restriction from the heating chamber to the battery.

Preferably, the partition includes thermal insulation. In some examples, the device further includes a layer of insulation, such as airgel or ceramic fibers or wool, provided on the diaphragm.

Preferably, the partition extends across the interior cross-section of the housing to provide a thermal barrier between the heating chamber and the battery.

Preferably, the septum contacts the inner surface of the housing, preferably around at least most of the perimeter of the cross-section. Preferably, the partition is configured to provide a barrier or hurdle between the first end of the tubular heating chamber and the first end of the adjacent battery. This configuration also helps minimize convective heat exchange between the heating chamber and the battery. In addition, it restricts the passage of fluid discharged from the battery towards the mouth end of the device in the event of a battery outgassing event. In particular, the partition reduces the velocity of gas or liquid exiting the battery in the direction of the mouth end of the device, thus increasing the safety of the device.

Preferably, the frame includes a battery frame configured to hold the battery and a heating chamber frame configured to hold the heating chamber, the heating chamber frame and the battery frame end-to-end within the housing. A first end of the battery frame is connected to a first end of the heating chamber frame so that it is aligned at. Preferably, the first end of the battery frame is configured to support the first end of the battery and the first end of the heating chamber frame supports the first end of the heating chamber. is configured as By providing a multi-piece frame design, the heater components can be pre-assembled in the heater chamber frame and the battery can be pre-assembled in the battery frame before the two frames are connected together, thus reducing assembly time. improved ease of

Preferably, the aerosol-generating device includes a partition extending across the interior cross-section of the housing and providing a thermal barrier between the heating chamber and the battery, the partition being located at the first end of the battery frame and the heating chamber frame. one or both of the first ends of Preferably, the partition includes the closed end of the battery frame and the (at least partially) closed end of the heater frame. In this way, the frame both supports the heating chamber and the battery in place and also acts to block heat transfer to the battery, increasing safety in the event of battery outgassing. .

Preferably, the heating chamber frame is configured to hold the heating chamber such that there is a gap between the first end of the tubular heating chamber and the septum. Preferably, the heating chamber frame is configured such that there is a gap between the cylindrical outer surface of the heating chamber and the heating chamber frame. These provisions further improve thermal management within the device by providing air gaps around the outer and lower surfaces of the hating chamber, further reducing heat transfer to the battery.

Preferably, the heating chamber frame has an L-shaped structure. Preferably, the heating chamber frame includes a base surface connected to the battery frame and a longitudinal portion extending longitudinally along the assembled heating chamber. To form an L-shaped structure, the longitudinal portion is preferably substantially perpendicular to the base surface. Preferably, the longitudinal portion (vertically extending portion) is located along the outside of the heating chamber. This L-shaped configuration facilitates ease of assembly, ensures that the heating chamber can be positioned accurately and is aligned with the battery, and furthermore, provides a good connection between the heating chamber and the surrounding support structure. Minimize heat transfer.

Preferably, the heating chamber includes a heater cup, a thin film heater wrapped around the outer surface of the heater cup, and an insulating tube, the heater cup being encased within the insulating tube. Preferably, the heater cup is supported within the insulating tube by one or more heating chamber supports configured to hold the heater cup and engage the surrounding insulating tube. Preferably, the one or more heating chamber supports are each located at the end of the heater cup. Preferably, the heating chamber supports are annular supports positioned around each end of the heater cup, one or both of the heating chamber supports being such that the heating chamber is held within the housing of the apparatus by the heater frame. Extends from the insulating tube and engages the frame as shown. This configuration facilitates ease of assembly and reduces heat transfer from the heater cup to the frame.

Preferably, the battery frame has a closed first end extending across the internal cross-section of the housing and extending along the length of the battery so as to leave most of the side surfaces of the battery exposed within the housing. and one or more longitudinal struts configured to. In this way, the battery frame provides space around the battery to contain any fluid released during degassing.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating device bends around a portion of the wall located between the heating chamber and the battery, and a flexible electrical connection configured to connect the electrical components on either side of the bulkhead portion. It further includes a part. In particular, a PCB may be provided between the first end of the battery frame and the first end of the heating chamber frame, the partition wall connecting the closed first end of the battery frame and the heating chamber frame. the PCB passing around the closed first end of the heater chamber frame to a heater configured to heat the heating chamber; They may be connected by flexible connections. In this way, the number of through holes in the diaphragm is minimized, further improving resistance to heat transfer through the diaphragm.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating device includes a first PCB extending across the cross-section of the housing and positioned between the first end of the battery and the first end of the adjacent heating chamber. In this way the first PCB provides an additional thermal barrier between the heating chamber and the battery. Preferably, the first PCB comprises a recess within the closed first end of the battery frame. Preferably, the first PCB is a power distribution board containing electrical components for controlling the supply of power from the battery to the heating chamber. Preferably, the battery and the heating chamber (particularly a heater configured to heat the heating chamber) are connected to the first PCB.

More specifically, the device for aerosol generation preferably includes a frame within the housing, the frame configured to hold the battery and the heating chamber within the frame, the frame supporting the first of the batteries. A septum extending across the interior cross-section of the housing is included between the end and the first end of the adjacent heating chamber, the first PCB being received within the recessed portion of the septum.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating device further comprises a second PCB extending along the length of the housing, the first PCB being connected to the second PCB by a flexible connection that bends around a portion of the septum. and a partition extends across the cross-section of the housing between the first end of the tubular heating chamber and the first end of the adjacent battery. In particular, the first PCB is preferably provided between the first end of the heating chamber frame and the first end of the battery frame, and the second PCB along the length of the heating chamber frame. The first PCB and the second PCB are connected by a flexible connection disposed around the first end of the heating chamber frame.

Preferably, the apparatus includes a battery frame configured to hold the battery and a heating chamber frame configured to hold the heating chamber, the first end of the battery frame connecting to the first end of the heating chamber frame. 1, the first end of the battery frame and the first end of the heating chamber frame are closed, and the battery is connected to the closed end of the battery frame, the first PCB and the heating chamber frame. The first PCB is positioned between the closed end of the battery frame and the closed end of the heating chamber frame so as to be thermally insulated from the heating chamber by a bulkhead including the closed end of the ing.

Preferably, the device for generating aerosol further comprises a heater configured to heat the inner volume of the tubular heating chamber, the heater being arranged outside the tubular heating chamber. Particularly preferably, the heater is a thin film heater wrapped around the outer surface of the heating chamber. The need for thermal management of the battery becomes more pronounced when the heater is located outside the heating chamber.

In a further aspect of the invention, mounting an elongated battery within a battery frame; connecting a first end of the heating chamber frame to the first end of the battery frame; A method is provided for assembling an aerosol generating device comprising mounting a tubular heating chamber within a heating chamber frame and inserting the combined frame assembly into an elongated housing to form an assembly. be.

1 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for aerosol generation; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for aerosol generation; FIG. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of a battery frame assembly; Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of a battery frame assembly; Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of a battery frame assembly; Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the battery frame and the heating chamber frame; Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the battery frame and the heating chamber frame; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the combined frame subassembly; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the combined frame subassembly; 1 is a schematic diagram of a multi-component PCB; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the assembly process of an aerosol generating device; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the assembly process of an aerosol generating device; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the assembly process of an aerosol generating device; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the assembly process of an aerosol generating device; FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the assembly process of an aerosol generating device; FIG.

1A and 1B schematically show a device 1 for generating aerosols according to the invention. Apparatus 1 includes a housing 10 and a tubular heating chamber 20 configured to receive an aerosol-generating substrate, the heating chamber 20 being operable to heat the aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device 1 further comprises an elongated battery 30, the heating chamber 20 and the battery being arranged such that the first end 21 of the tubular heating chamber 20 faces the first end 31 of the battery 30 and the housing 10 aligned end-to-end within. The heating chamber 20 within the battery 30 is aligned end-to-end within the housing 10 to reduce the thermal interface between the heating chamber and the battery and reduce heat transfer to the battery during use of the device 1. do. This configuration also allows for a more compact aerosol-generating device 1 in which the dimensions of the housing 10 can be reduced, and efficient use of space is achieved through the end-to-end configuration of the tubular heating chamber 20 and battery 30. .

As shown in the external view of the device 1 in FIG. 1A and the cross-sectional view in FIG. 1B, the aerosol generating device 1 has a length extending between a first mouth end 11 and an opposite base end 12 . It has an elongated housing 10 . Housing 10 has an opening 13 located at first end 11 of housing 10 through which consumables can be introduced into tubular heating chamber 20 . Power may be selectively provided by battery 30 using control circuitry within the device to heat consumables received within chamber 20 and produce vapors that may be inhaled by the user.

In this example, the device 1 is configured to receive an elongated consumable, which is received within the chamber 20 while a portion of the consumable remains protruding from the opening 13 to dissipate the generated aerosol. It serves as a mouthpiece through which the user can inhale, but other examples are envisioned in which the consumable is contained entirely within the device and the aerosol is inhaled through the mouthpiece. Device 1 further includes a slider 14 that can be used to selectively open and close opening 13 at first end 11 of device 1 .

During use, the heating chamber 20 rises to high temperatures, typically 150-300°C. Due to the proximity of the internal components of the device 1 to each other, measures must be taken to reduce heat transfer to the battery 10 and control circuitry. As noted above, the end-to-end configuration of heating chamber 20 and battery 30 provides a reduced thermal interface and minimizes the conduction of high temperatures to the battery. Additionally, the first end 21 of the heating chamber 20 has a generally lower temperature than the rest of the heating chamber because the lowest temperature portion of the heating chamber is located adjacent to the battery and is sensitive to control. This means that the amount of heat transferred to the components and power supply 30 itself is also reduced. Several other features of the device 1 for generating aerosol according to the invention further enhance thermal management within the device 1 .

As shown in FIG. 1B, the aerosol-generating device 1 further comprises a frame 60 configured to hold the battery 30 and the tubular heating chamber 20 within the housing 10 . In particular, frame 60 is configured to engage the inner surface of housing 10 within apparatus 1 to provide a stable support to which heating chamber 20 and battery 30 can be mounted. Frame 60 thus functions to ensure that heating chamber 20 and battery 30 are held in the required position within apparatus 1 to minimize heat transfer between them.

Frame 60 further includes a partition 61 extending across the internal volume of housing 10 between first end 21 of heating chamber 20 and first end 31 of battery 30 . The partition 61 thus acts as a further thermal barrier insulating the first end 31 of the battery 30 from the first end 21 of the heating chamber 20 . Septum 61 preferably contacts the inner surface of housing 10 and provides a barrier between heating chamber 20 and battery 30 . In addition to providing an improved thermal barrier, barrier wall 61 also serves to separate the heating chamber and upper portion of device 1 from the lower portion of the device, including battery 30, thus reducing battery degassing. It functions to restrict the passage of fluid released from the battery in the event of an event.

In the illustrated example, the frame 60 is a modular component that includes two subframes, the battery frame 50 and the heating chamber frame 40 . The battery frame 50 and the heating frame 40 are each aligned longitudinally within the housing 10 with the first end 41 of the heating chamber frame 40 connected to the first end 51 of the battery frame 50 . are connected at their longitudinal ends. This modular two-piece frame design allows the internal components of the device 1 to be assembled before being connected at the interface between the first end 41 of the heater frame 40 and the first end 51 of the battery frame 50 . can be assembled in a modular fashion with the battery 30 and battery frame 50 assembled separately from the heating chamber 20 and heating chamber frame 40, thereby greatly improving ease of assembly.

As can be seen in FIG. 1B, bulkhead 61 includes portion 41 of heating chamber frame 40 and portion 51 of battery frame 50 in this example. In particular, both the battery frame 50 and the heating chamber frame 40 extend radially across the cross-section of the device at each first end 41, 51 to provide a partition between the heating chamber 20 and the battery 30. Including part. This configuration can provide increased thermal protection to the battery by providing several insulating layers forming a barrier wall 60 between the heating chamber and the battery 30 .

Figures 2A-2C schematically illustrate a battery frame 50 in certain examples of the invention. As can be seen in FIG. 2A, the battery frame 50 includes a substantially open structure to provide a rigid enclosure that partially encloses the battery 30 while leaving a portion of the outer surface of the battery 30 exposed. provide an open space to Battery frame 50 includes a closed first end 51 that includes an end plate 52 configured to extend across the cross-section of inner housing 10 . The battery frame 50 includes a second end 53 opposite the first end 51 that functions to support the second end 32 of the battery 30 . The second end 53 of the battery frame includes a number of gaps 54 that provide openings to the second end 53 of the battery frame 50 as well as a support surface for supporting the base end 32 of the battery. Also includes The battery frame 50 also includes a number of longitudinal struts 55 configured to extend along the length of the battery, connecting the first end 51 and the second end 51 . end 53 is connected.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, the battery frame 50 includes two longitudinal struts 55, which are arranged on opposite longitudinal edges of the battery and which are located at the first end. A closed plate 52 at portion 51 and an open support at second end 53 are connected. Thus, end plate 52 of first end 51 provides a barrier across first end 31 of battery 30 when battery 30 is received within battery frame 50, as shown in FIG. 2B. On the other hand, the base end 53 with longitudinal struts 55 and openings 54 means that a portion of the exterior surface of the battery is exposed. This structure is optimized to provide increased safety in the event of battery 30 outgassing. In particular, if the battery 30 ruptures or vents during degassing, the first end 51 will remain open for any released fluid as it travels toward the mouth end 11 . Reduce speed of speed. Instead, the fluid is directed downward through the openings 54 and out of the vent points provided in the bottom surface of the apparatus house 10 in the exposed areas left by the longitudinal struts 55 and the The opening 54 in the base of the battery frame 50 is filled. Thus, the battery frame 50 structure not only provides increased thermal resistance to the battery 30 at the first end 51 adjacent to the heating chamber 20, but also contains any fluids released from the battery 30, allowing them to It also provides space for exiting the base 12 of the device 1 .

2C, in a cross-sectional view taken across the end plates 52 of the battery frame 50, the first end 51 formed by the end plates 52 extends radially to the inner surface S of the housing 10. come into contact with In this example, the connection is not continuous across the entire interface between the device housing 10 and the battery frame 50, but along the portion of the interface corresponding to the open portion 56 formed by the longitudinal struts 55. to complete.

As shown in FIG. 2C, the battery frame 50 is shaped to be placed within the housing 10 against its inner surface and is firmly supported within the housing 10 to provide robust support for the battery 30. make it possible to Battery frame 50 also includes a protrusion 57 extending away from base end 53 and configured to engage an inner surface of base end 12 of housing 10 . This protrusion 57 means that at the base end 12 of the device there is an empty portion 15 of the housing 10 which can accommodate the fluid released from the battery 30 during degassing. Protrusion 57 may also house a charging port and associated electronic control components for allowing connection of a charging cable to charge battery 30 .

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the top end plate 52 that provides the closed first end 51 of the battery frame 50 includes a recessed portion 58 . In particular, within the first end 51 of the battery frame 50 adjacent the heating chamber 20 and heating chamber frame 40 is a recessed portion 58 configured to receive a PCB 71 as shown in FIG. 3A. This allows both additional heat shielding for the battery 30 and easy connection to the intervening PCBs of both the battery 30 and the heating chamber 20 .

As will be described in more detail below, this example of the device 1 according to the invention allows a compact configuration in which different parts of the PCB are connected around the various internal components of the device 1 in different orientations. It includes a multi-component PCB with several different PCB components connected by flex connections for the purpose.

A first PCB portion 71 received within the recessed portion 58 of the heater frame 50 is preferably a switchboard 71 containing high power components associated with controlling the current supply from the battery 30 to the heater of the heating chamber 20. . This orientation of the switchboard 71 located across the internal cross-section of the device 1 between the heating chamber and the battery 30 provides several advantages. Both the heating chamber 20 and the battery 30 can be connected to the switchboard 71 while minimizing the length of connections required. Since these connections carry high currents between the battery 30 and the heater of the heating chamber 20, it is advantageous to keep these components as short as possible to minimize losses. It is also possible to have all the high power components on the same portion 71 of the PCB structure 70 . In this way, the switchboard 71 can be optimized to include these higher power components.

A further significant advantage associated with the thermal management features of the present invention is that switchboard 71 provides an additional heat shield between heating chamber 20 and battery 30 . In particular, the switchboard 71 is located across the bulkheads 61 provided by the ends 51 of the battery frame 50 and these provide a multi-layer barrier for improved heat shielding between the heating chamber 20 and the battery 30 . Recessed portion 58 is configured to receive switchboard 71 and hold it securely as shown in FIG. obtain.

FIG. 3B shows how the heating chamber frame 40 is then connected to the battery frame 50, with the first end 41 of the heater frame connecting to the first end 51 of the adjacent heater frame 50. It is The heating chamber frame 40 has a base surface forming a first end 41 connected to the battery frame and a longitudinal length over the assembled heating chamber to hold the heating chamber within the housing 10 . It has an L-shaped structure with an elongated vertical portion 43 extending in the longitudinal direction. A first end 41 of heater frame 40 includes a substantially closed surface that extends radially across the internal cross-section of housing 10 of device 1 . Thus, as shown in FIG. 3B, first end 51 of heater frame 50, PCB 71, and first end 41 of heat chamber frame 14 are multi-layered to shield battery 30 from heat chamber 20. A partition 61 is also provided. This provides good heat shielding while allowing easy connections between the switchboard 71 and the battery and heating chamber.

In this example, the battery frame 50 and heating chamber frame 40 are connected by screws 42 to provide a secure and robust assembly means for the frame assembly. This allows for a modular construction of the device 1 for generating aerosols, which is further described below.

FIG. 4A shows the assembled heater frame 40 holding the heating chamber 20 connected to the battery frame 50 holding the battery 30 . As shown more clearly in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 4B, the heating chamber 20 includes a heating cup 21, a thin film heater 26 wrapped around the outer surface of the heater cup 21, and an insulating tube 22 (e.g., a vacuum insulating tube, in which a to which the heating cup 21 is attached). The heater cup 21 has two heating chamber supports configured to hold the ends of the heater cup 21 and engage the surrounding vacuum tube 22 to hold the heater cup 21 in place within the heating tube 22 . It is supported within the vacuum tube 22 by objects 23,24. Heating chamber supports 23 , 24 are also configured to engage heater frame 40 such that heating chamber 20 is retained within housing 10 of apparatus 1 by heater frame 40 .

As shown in FIG. 4B, the heating chamber 20 assembly includes a first heating chamber support 23 at the second open end 25 of the heating chamber and a heating cup first end of the heating chamber 20 ( and a second support 24 at the closed end 21 . Heating chamber supports 23 , 24 extend at least partially around the circumference of heater cup 21 and slightly along the length of the heating chamber to grip the heating chamber at one end and to the surrounding vacuum tube 22 . Connecting. In this example, the heating chamber support 24 at the base end has a plurality of grippers positioned around the perimeter of the support 24 that extend along a portion of the length of the heating chamber to grip the heating chamber. Includes struts 27 . In this way, the heating cup 21 is retained only at the end points of the thermal chamber 20, minimizing heat transfer to surrounding components.

The heater supports 23, 24 extend from the insulating tube 22 of the heating chamber 20 and connect with the surrounding heating chamber support frame 40, as shown in FIG. 4A. Heating chamber supports 23, 24 are connected to heating frame 40 and hold heating chamber 20 (including heater cup and surrounding vacuum chamber 22) within the heating frame. Thus, heat transfer from heater cup 23 to heater frame 40 and beyond to battery 30 . In particular, the heater supports 23, 24 contact only the coldest regions of the heater cup 23 at the ends, minimizing contact between the heater chamber supports 23, 24 and the frame, these configurations Heat transfer between elements is reduced.

To block direct axial heat flow to the battery 30 and instead only allow heat to pass toward the sides of the inner surface of the housing 20, further reducing heat transfer to the power supply 30: A base side heating chamber support 24 is configured with a horizontal side opening 25 . The heater frame 40 is also configured to provide a space between the base of the heating chamber 20 and a partition 61 made up of the ends 41 of the heater chamber support 40 and the ends 51 of the battery support 50. there is By configuring heater frame 40 in this manner to provide an air gap below the heating chamber, heat transfer to bulkhead 61 and beyond to power supply 30 is further reduced. The heating chamber frame 40 and heater supports 23, 24 are also configured to leave a gap between the outer surface of the insulating tube 22 and the surrounding heater frame 40, which reduces any hot spot distribution. Helps further reduce heat transfer between the heater tubes and the surrounding frame 40 .

The configuration of the present invention also employs flexible connections 72 , 73 connecting various electronic components around a portion of bulkhead 61 . In particular, the flex connection 72 connects the power distribution board 71 contained between the heater frame 40 and the battery frame 50 to the second PCB portion 74 , and the flex connection 72 connects the end face 41 of the thermal support 40 . It bends around a portion to form a partition 61 . Similarly, the electrical connections connecting the thin film heater wrapped around the heater cup 23 to the switchboard 71 are also flexible to pass around the end portions 41 of the heater frame 40 . This reduces the number of openings that must be made in a portion of partition 61 which increases the degree of heat transfer through partition 61 . Instead, by bending the connections 72, 73 around the base portion 41 of the heater support, thermal management within the apparatus 1 is improved because no additional openings are required to pass the connections.

As mentioned above, the device 1 for generating aerosols according to the invention uses a multi-component PCB 70 configuration as shown in FIG. The multi-component PCB is positioned between the corresponding end portions 41, 51 of the heater frame 40 and the battery frame 50, between the first end of the heating chamber 20 and the first end 31 of the battery 30. including switchboard 71 . In this example, the PCB configuration further includes a main or CPU board 74, a USB board 75, a user interface board 76, and a hall sensor board 77, each connected by a flex connector. By providing a multi-component PCB board in this manner, the various PCB sections can be adapted to the vertical end-to-end configuration of the heating chamber 20 and battery 30, allowing for a compact configuration with minimal heat transfer. It can be folded and placed around these various components to make it possible. In particular, returning to FIG. 4B, the switchboard is positioned as part of a bulkhead between the end portions 41, 51 of the frame components and the flex connector 72 extends along the length of the heating chamber 20. It is connected to the main board PCB 77 located in the .

Flex connections 72 are also used to connect to Hall sensors used to detect the position of slider 14 and a user interface board 76 containing user interface buttons and LED displays. The end-to-end vertical configuration provided by the frame 60, along with the multi-component PCB configuration 70 configured to bend around the various components of the frame 60, provide a particularly compact configuration, while maintaining the heating chamber and the battery. 30 to minimize heat transfer.

As shown in FIG. 4B, recess 58 in the closed end of battery frame 50 receives at least a portion of switchboard 71 . In some examples of the invention, additional insulation may be provided around the PCB within this recess 58 to further enhance the thermal barrier properties between the heating chamber 20 and the battery 30 .

While providing a compact aerosol-generating device 1 as well as greatly reducing the extent of heat transfer between the heating chamber and the battery, the present invention using an end-to-end configuration and frame construction also reduces the assembly process. It will be of great help. FIG. 6 shows how the assembly jig 80 can be used to assemble a modular frame assembly.

First, the battery 30 is mounted within the battery frame 50 . The switchboard 71 of the PCB assembly 70 is then placed in the recess in the end plate 52 of the first end 51 of the battery frame 50 such that the switchboard 71 is retained in the recess 58 . A USB board 75 is connected within the protrusion 57 at the base of the battery frame 50 . The assembled battery frame 50 is then placed in an assembly jig 80 as shown in FIG. 6A. Point contacts are provided on the contact surfaces of the switchboard 71 to provide for connection of the heater 26 and the battery 30 . The battery connection wires are then soldered to the connections on the switchboard 71, as shown in FIG. 6A.

The assembled battery frame is retained in the first recess 81 of the assembly jig so that the assembled heating chamber 20 is retained on the support surface 82 of the assembly jig. Once the connections are soldered to the switchboard 71, the heater frame 40 is then connected to the battery frame 50 as shown in FIG. 6B. In particular, there are corresponding mechanical connections on the end face 41 of the heater frame 40 and on the opposite end face 51 of the battery frame. The mechanical connection portions on the heater frame 40 are connected to corresponding features such as hooks on the battery frame 50 and the heater frame 40 is then connected by screws 42 shown in FIG. Together 40 provide a rigid backbone for the internal components of the device to which they can be securely attached.

The main PCB board 74 is then bent through the flexible connections 72 and connected to hooks on the heater frame 40 . The main board 74 is fixed to the heater frame 40 by clamp ribs provided on the heater frame 40 . The USB board 76 and hole center board 77 are then bent into place by the flexible connections 72 and secured to the heater frame 40 . Heating chamber 20 is then connected into heating frame 40 as shown in FIG. 6D. Finally, as shown in Figure 6E, the mounting cap 65 is placed over the heater frame and secured to the heater frame using screws 43, as shown in Figure 6E. A mounting cap is not essential, but functions to secure the heating chamber 20 in place within the heating chamber frame 40 and the openings allow consumables to pass through the openings 13 in the first end 11 of the apparatus 1 . still allow free acceptance. As shown in FIG. 6E, the assembled frame with all internal components attached can then be placed within the external device housing 10 to form the assembled product shown in FIG. 1A.

By providing an aerosol generating device 1 in which a tubular heating chamber 20 and an elongated battery are aligned end-to-end within the device, the thermal interface between the components is minimized so that the heating chamber to the battery While the amount of heat transferred is reduced, it allows for a very compact and easy-to-use configuration. Furthermore, by providing a frame 60 that holds these components in place within the surrounding housing, the assembly process is further greatly improved while the amount of heat flow between the heating chamber 20 and the battery 30 is reduced. is further reduced.

DEFINITIONS AND ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS From the above description, it will be appreciated that many features of the described embodiments perform independent functions with independent advantages. Accordingly, inclusion or omission of each of these independent features of the embodiments of the invention defined in the claims may be independently selected.

The term "heater" should be understood to mean any device for outputting thermal energy sufficient to form an aerosol from an aerosol substrate. Transfer of thermal energy from the heater to the aerosol substrate can be by conduction, convection, radiation, or any combination of these means. As non-limiting examples, the conductive heater may directly contact and press against the aerosol substrate, or contact a separate component, such as a heating chamber, such that the separate component itself conducts heat. Heating of the aerosol substrate may be caused by air, convection, and/or radiation.

The heater may be electrically driven, combustion driven, or driven by any other suitable means. Electrically driven heaters may include resistive track elements (optionally including insulating packaging), induction heating systems (including, for example, electromagnets and high frequency oscillators), and the like. The heater may be positioned around the outside of the aerosol substrate, may penetrate partway or completely into the aerosol substrate, or any combination thereof. For example, instead of the heater in the embodiments described above, the aerosol generating device may have a blade-type heater that extends into the aerosol substrate within the heating chamber.

The aerosol base comprises tobacco, for example in dried or cured form, optionally with additional ingredients for flavor or to provide a smoother or more satisfying effect. In some examples, an aerosol substrate such as tobacco may be treated with a vaporizing agent. Vaporizers can improve vapor generation from an aerosol substrate. Vaporizing agents may include, for example, polyols such as glycerol or glycols such as propylene glycol. Optionally, the aerosol base may be tobacco- or even nicotine-free, instead containing natural ingredients to provide flavor, volatility, improved smoothness and/or other pleasing effects. May contain ingredients of synthetic origin. Aerosol substrates may be provided as solid or paste-type materials in shredded, pelleted, powdered, granular, strip or sheet form, optionally combinations thereof. Similarly, the aerosol substrate can be a liquid or gel. In fact, some examples may include both a solid portion and a liquid/gel portion.

Accordingly, the aerosol-generating device 1 can be equally referred to as a "heated tobacco device," a "heated non-burning tobacco device," a "tobacco product vaporization device," etc., and is suitable for achieving these effects. Interpreted as a device. The features disclosed herein are equally applicable to devices designed to vaporize any aerosol substrate.

The aerosol-generating device may be configured to contain the aerosol substrate within a pre-packaged substrate carrier. The substrate carrier can generally resemble a cigarette having a tubular region with an aerosol substrate configured in a suitable form. Some designs may also include filters, vapor collection areas, cooling areas, and other structures. An outer layer of flexible planar material such as paper or foil may also be provided to, for example, hold the aerosol substrate in place, further resembling a cigarette or the like. The substrate carrier may fit within the heating chamber or may be longer than the heating chamber so that the lid remains open while the aerosol generating device 1 is provided with the substrate carrier. In such embodiments, the aerosol may be provided directly from a substrate carrier that acts as a mouthpiece for the aerosol generating device.

As used herein, the term "aerosol" shall mean a system of particles dispersed in air or gas, such as mist, fog, or smoke. Thus, the term "aerosolize" means to make into an aerosol and/or to disperse as an aerosol. Note that the meaning of aerosol/aerosolize is consistent with each of volatilize, nebulize, and vaporize. For the avoidance of doubt, aerosol is used consistently to describe a mist or droplets containing particles that are atomized, volatilized, or vaporized. Aerosol also includes mists or droplets containing any combination of nebulized, volatilized, or vaporized particles.

Claims (18)

a housing;
a tubular heating chamber configured to receive an aerosol substrate, said heating chamber being operable to heat said aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol;
an elongated battery,
a frame within the housing, wherein a first end of the tubular heating chamber faces a first end of the battery, the heating chamber and the battery being aligned end-to-end within the housing; a frame configured to hold the battery and the heating chamber within the frame so as to;
including
the frame includes a partition positioned between the first end of the battery and the first end of the adjacent heating chamber;
Apparatus for aerosol generation. 2. Apparatus for generating aerosol according to claim 1, wherein the partition extends across the internal cross-section of the housing to provide a thermal barrier between the heating chamber and the battery. 3. A device for generating an aerosol according to claim 2, wherein said septum contacts an inner surface of said housing. The frame is
a battery frame configured to hold the battery;
a heating chamber frame configured to hold the heating chamber;
including
a first end of the battery frame is connected to a first end of the heating chamber frame such that the heating chamber frame and the battery frame are aligned end-to-end within the housing;
The device for aerosol generation according to any one of claims 1-3. a bulkhead extending across the internal cross-section of the housing to provide a thermal barrier between the heating chamber and the battery, the bulkhead extending between the first end of the battery frame and the heating chamber frame; 5. A device for generating an aerosol according to claim 4, comprising one or both of said first ends. 6. The aerosol of claim 5, wherein the heating chamber frame is configured to hold the heating chamber such that there is a gap between the first end of the tubular heating chamber and the septum. device for generation. The battery frame is
a closed first end extending across the internal cross-section of the housing;
one or more longitudinal struts extending along the length of the battery and configured to leave most of the side surfaces of the battery exposed within the housing;
7. The device for aerosol generation according to claim 5 or 6, comprising The heating chamber frame has a base surface connected to the battery frame and a longitudinal portion extending longitudinally over the longitudinal length of the assembled heating chamber to retain the heating chamber within the housing. The device for aerosol generation according to any one of claims 4 to 7, having an L-shaped structure comprising A device for aerosol generation according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the heating chamber comprises a heating cup, a thin film heater wrapped around the outer surface of the heating cup, and an insulating tube. Further comprising one or more heating chamber supports, said heating chamber supports holding said heater cup, extending from said insulating tube of said heating chamber, connecting to said heating chamber frame, and supporting said heating chamber. 10. A device for generating an aerosol according to claim 9, configured to be retained within said frame. and a flexible electrical connection configured to bend around a portion of the wall disposed between the heating chamber and the battery and connect electrical components on opposite sides of the portion of the bulkhead. A device for aerosol generation according to any one of claims 1 to 10. Claims 1-including a first PCB extending across said cross-section of said housing and disposed between said first end of said battery and said first end of said adjacent heating chamber. 12. Apparatus for aerosol generation according to any one of 11. 13. Apparatus for aerosol generation according to claim 12, wherein said first PCB is a power PCB to which said heating chamber and said battery are connected. 14. Apparatus for aerosol generation according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the first PCB is received within a recessed portion of the bulkhead. a second PCB extending along the length of the housing, the first PCB being connected to the second PCB by a flexible connection that bends around a portion of the bulkhead; extends across the cross-section of the housing between the first end of the tubular heating chamber and the first end of the adjacent battery. . the first end of the battery frame and the first end of the heating chamber frame are closed;
such that the battery is thermally insulated from the heating chamber by a bulkhead comprising the closed end of the battery frame, the first PCB and the closed end of the heating chamber frame;
the first PCB is positioned between the closed end of the battery frame and the closed end of the heating chamber frame;
A device for aerosol generation according to any one of claims 12-15. 17. The aerosol generating device of claim 16, wherein the battery frame includes a top end plate at the first end of the battery frame having a recessed portion configured to receive the first PCB. The aerosol generator of any one of claims 1-17, further comprising a heater configured to heat an interior volume of the tubular heating chamber, the heater being positioned external to the tubular heating chamber. equipment.

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