阅读说明：本技术 气溶胶产生装置 (Aerosol generating device ) 是由 托马斯·保罗·布兰迪诺 阿什利·约翰·赛义德 卢克·詹姆斯·沃伦 于 2020-03-09 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明提供一种气溶胶产生装置,其包含一感应加热电路,该感应加热电路用于感应加热一感受器结构以加热一气溶胶产生材料,从而产生一气溶胶。该装置经组配以使得在操作期间,由该装置发射的电磁辐射之一位准为：在30MHz至225MHz之一频率范围内小于40dBμV/m,及/或在235MHz至1GHz之一频率范围内小于47dBμV/m,及/或在1GHz至3GHz之一频率范围内小于70dBμV/m,及/或在3GHz至6GHz之一频率范围内小于74dBμV/m。(The invention provides an aerosol generating device, which comprises an induction heating circuit, wherein the induction heating circuit is used for inductively heating a receptor structure to heat an aerosol generating material so as to generate aerosol. The apparatus is configured such that, during operation, a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the apparatus is: less than 40dB μ V/m in a frequency range from 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ V/m in a frequency range from 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ V/m in a frequency range from 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ V/m in a frequency range from 3GHz to 6 GHz.)

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising:

an induction heating circuit for inductively heating a susceptor structure to heat an aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol;

wherein the apparatus is configured such that, during operation, a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the apparatus is:

less than 40dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured such that during operation, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted due to the operation of the device is less than 40dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz and less than 47dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 235MHz to 1 GHz.

3. The aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted due to the operation of the device is less than 40dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 3GHz to 6GHz, during operation of charging the device and/or during operation of discharging the device.

4. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the level of radiation emitted by the device is a level of emitted radiation as measured in both a vertical plane and a horizontal plane.

5. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device is an electromagnetic radiation level as measured using a testing device for measuring the level of emitted electromagnetic radiation, wherein optionally the level of emitted radiation emitted by the device is a level determined by measuring a peak or quasi-peak level of radiation emitted by the device.

6. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device comprises the susceptor structure and, during operation, the aerosol-generating material is contained by the device such that the susceptor structure is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material.

7. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is a tobacco heating device configured to heat but not burn tobacco material during operation to generate an aerosol from the tobacco material.

8. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is a hand-held device.

9. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device comprises a magnetic shielding component configured to extend at least partially around the induction heating circuit or the susceptor structure.

10. The aerosol generating device of claim 9, wherein the inductive heating circuit comprises an inductive element configured to generate a varying magnetic field for heating the susceptor structure, and wherein the magnetic shielding member is configured to extend at least partially around the inductive element.

11. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 9 or claim 10 in which the device comprises a container configured to contain the aerosol-generating material to be heated by the susceptor structure during operation, and in which the inductive element is an inductor coil extending around the container.

12. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 11 in which the receptacle is defined by the susceptor structure.

13. An aerosol-generating device according to any of claims 9 to 12, wherein the magnetic shielding component surrounds the inductive element and is at least partially bonded to itself.

14. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, comprising a charging apparatus configured to control charging of a battery of the device from a power source external to the device, wherein the charging apparatus is configured such that, when operated to manage charging of the device, the peak level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device due to operation of the charging apparatus is less than 40dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

15. The aerosol generating device of claim 14, wherein the charging apparatus is configured to perform a switching operation during charging, and wherein the charging apparatus comprises a buffer circuit for limiting a rate of change of voltage during the switching operation of the charging apparatus.

16. An aerosol generating device according to claim 15, wherein the charging apparatus comprises:

an input section configured to connect to the external power source to receive power from the external power source to charge the device;

an output section connected to an output inductor; and

a charge management controller connected between the input section and the output section and configured to receive power from the input section and control current supplied to the output section.

17. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 16 when dependent on claim 15, wherein the buffer circuit is located in the output section of the charging apparatus.

18. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the input section of the charging apparatus comprises an input inductor for filtering the high frequency signal to the charge management controller.

19. The aerosol generating device of any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in a frequency range of 30MHz to 1GHz during operation of heating an aerosolizable material is less than about 35dB μ ν/m.

20. The aerosol generating device of claim 20, wherein the device is configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in a frequency range of 30MHz to 400MHz is less than about 20dB μ ν/m during operation to heat an aerosolizable material.

21. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured such that, during operation of charging the device, a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in a frequency range of 300MHz to 1GHz is less than about 37.5dB μ ν/m.

22. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in a frequency range of 30MHz to 500MHz is less than about 35dB μ ν/m during operation of charging the device.

23. The aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is configured such that an average level of emitted radiation of the device during operation in a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz is less than about 50dB μ ν/m, and/or an average level of emitted radiation of the device during operation in a frequency range of 3GHz to 6GHz is less than about 54dB μ ν/m.

24. A system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim and a charging cable for providing charge from an external power source to charge the device, wherein the system is configured such that, during operation of charging the device, a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than 40dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the system is configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system in a frequency range of 300MHz to 1GHz is less than about 37.5dB μ ν/m during operation to charge the device.

26. The system of claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the system is configured such that during operation of charging the device, a level of conducted electromagnetic emissions on the charging cable due to operation of the device is:

less than about 66dB μ V over a frequency range of 150kHz to 500 kHz; and/or

Less than about 56dB μ V at about 500 kHz; and/or

Less than about 56dB μ V over a frequency range of 500kHz to 5 MHz; and/or

Less than about 60dB μ V over a frequency range of 5MHz to 30 MHz.

27. An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 23 and an article containing an aerosolizable material, wherein the system is configured such that, during operation to generate an aerosol from the aerosolizable material, a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than 40dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

28. The aerosol generating system of claim 27, wherein the system is configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system during operation to generate an aerosol from the aerosolizable material is less than about 35dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 500 MHz.

29. The aerosol generating system of claim 28, wherein the system is configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system in a frequency range of 30MHz to 400MHz is less than about 20dB μ ν/m during operation to generate an aerosol from the aerosolizable material.

Technical Field

The invention relates to an aerosol generating device.

Background

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to form tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to such articles of tobacco burning by making products that release compounds without burning. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases a compound by heating rather than burning the material. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising: an induction heating circuit for inductively heating the susceptor structure to heat the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol; wherein the apparatus is configured such that, during operation, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the apparatus is: less than 40dB μ V/m in the frequency range from 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ V/m in the frequency range from 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ V/m in the frequency range from 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ V/m in the frequency range from 3GHz to 6 GHz.

The device may be configured such that during operation, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted due to operation of the device is less than 40dB μ V/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz and less than 47dB μ V/m over a frequency range of 235MHz to 1 GHz.

The device may be configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted due to operation of the device is less than 40dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 3GHz to 6GHz, during operation to charge the device and/or during operation to discharge the device.

The level of radiation emitted by the device may be a level of emitted radiation as measured in both the vertical and horizontal planes.

The level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device may be the level of electromagnetic radiation as measured using a testing device for measuring the level of emitted electromagnetic radiation, wherein optionally the level of emitted radiation emitted by the device is a level determined by measuring a peak or quasi-peak level of radiation emitted by the device.

The device may comprise a susceptor structure, and during operation, aerosol-generating material may be contained by the device such that the susceptor structure is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material.

The device may be a tobacco heating device configured to heat, but not burn, tobacco material during operation to generate an aerosol therefrom.

The device may be a handheld device.

The device may include a magnetic shield component configured to extend at least partially around the induction heating circuit or susceptor structure.

The induction heating circuit may include an induction element configured to generate a varying magnetic field for heating the susceptor structure, and the magnetic shielding component may be configured to extend at least partially around the induction element.

The device may comprise a container configured to contain aerosol-generating material to be heated by the susceptor structure during operation, and the inductive element may be an inductor coil extending around the container.

The reservoir may be defined by a susceptor structure.

The magnetic shield component can surround the inductive element, and the magnetic shield component can be at least partially bonded to itself.

The device may comprise a charging apparatus configured to control charging of a battery of the device from a power source external to the device, and the charging apparatus may be configured such that, when operated to manage charging of the device, a peak level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device due to operation of the charging apparatus is less than 40dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

The charging apparatus may be configured to perform a switching operation during charging, and the charging apparatus may include a buffer circuit for limiting a rate of change of the voltage during the switching operation of the charging apparatus.

The charging apparatus may include: an input section configured for connection to an external power source to receive power therefrom to charge a device; an output section connected to an output inductor; and a charge management controller connected between the input section and the output section and configured to receive power from the input section and control current supplied to the output section.

The buffer circuit may be located in an output section of the charging apparatus.

The input section of the charging apparatus may include an input inductor for filtering the high frequency signal to the charge management controller.

The device may be configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in a frequency range of 30MHz to 1GHz during operation to heat the aerosolizable material is less than about 35dB μ ν/m.

The device may be configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in a frequency range of 30MHz to 400MHz is less than about 20dB μ V/m during operation to heat the aerosolizable material.

The device may be configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in a frequency range of 300MHz to 1GHz during operation to charge the device is less than about 37.5dB μ V/m.

The device may be configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in a frequency range of 30MHz to 500MHz is less than about 35dB μ V/m during an operation to charge the device.

The device may be configured such that an average level of emitted radiation of the device during operation is less than about 50dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz and/or an average level of emitted radiation of the device during operation is less than about 54dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect and a charging cable for providing charge from an external power source to charge the device, wherein the system is configured such that, during operation to charge the device, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than 40dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ ν/m over a frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

The system may be configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system in a frequency range of 300MHz to 1GHz during operation to charge the device is less than about 37.5dB μ V/m.

The system may be configured such that during operation to charge the device, a level of conducted electromagnetic emissions on the charging cable due to operation of the device is: less than about 66dB μ V over a frequency range of 150kHz to 500 kHz; and/or less than about 56dB μ V at about 500 kHz; and/or less than about 56dB μ V over a frequency range of 500kHz to 5 MHz; and/or less than about 60dB μ V over a frequency range of 5MHz to 30 MHz.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect and an article containing an aerosolizable material, wherein the system is configured such that, during operation to generate an aerosol from the aerosolizable material, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than 40dB μ ν/m in the frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz, and/or less than 47dB μ ν/m in the frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz, and/or less than 70dB μ ν/m in the frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ ν/m in the frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

The system may be configured such that during operation to generate an aerosol from the aerosolizable material, a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system is less than about 35dB μ V/m over a frequency range of 30MHz to 500 MHz.

The system may be configured such that a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the system in a frequency range of 30MHz to 400MHz is less than about 20dB μ ν/m during operation for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable material.

Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of a device for measuring the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by an example aerosol-generating system;

FIG. 2 shows a graph of measured levels of electromagnetic radiation from an example aerosol-generating system during operation;

FIG. 3 shows another graph of measured levels of electromagnetic radiation from an example aerosol-generating system during operation;

FIG. 4 shows a front view of an example aerosol-generating device;

FIG. 5 shows a front view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 4 with the outer cover removed;

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 shows an exploded view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8A shows a cross-sectional view of a heating assembly within an aerosol-generating device;

FIG. 8B shows a close-up view of a portion of the heating assembly of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an example magnetic shield member configured within an aerosol-generating device;

FIG. 10 shows a diagrammatic representation of a cross section of an example magnetic shield member;

FIG. 11 shows a top view of the configuration shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an example magnetic shield member;

FIG. 13 shows a diagrammatic representation of a first example magnetic shield member including a notch;

FIG. 14 shows a diagrammatic representation of a second example magnetic shield member including a notch; and is

FIG. 15 shows a diagrammatic representation of a third example magnetic shield member including an aperture; and is

Figure 16 shows a schematic representation of an example apparatus for controlling charging of an aerosol-generating device.

Detailed Description

As used herein, the term "aerosol generating material" includes materials that upon heating provide a volatile component, typically in the form of an aerosol. The aerosol-generating material comprises any tobacco-containing material, and may, for example, comprise one or more of tobacco, a tobacco derivative, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or a tobacco substitute. The aerosol-generating material may also include other non-tobacco products, and depending on the product, the aerosol-generating material may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid, gel, wax, or the like. The aerosol generating material may also be, for example, a combination or blend of materials. The aerosol generating material may also be referred to as "smokable material".

Devices are known which heat an aerosol generating material to volatilise at least one component of the aerosol generating material, thereby forming an inhalable aerosol, typically without combusting the aerosol generating material. Such apparatus is sometimes described as an "aerosol generating device", "aerosol feeding device", "heating and non-combustion device", "tobacco heating product device" or "tobacco heating device" or similar device. Similarly, there are also so-called electronic cigarette devices that typically vaporize an aerosol generating material in liquid form, which may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of or provided as part of a rod, cartridge or the like which may be inserted into the apparatus. Heaters for heating and volatilizing the aerosol generating material may be provided as a "permanent" part of the apparatus. The device may be a hand-held device intended to be held by a user when in use to generate an aerosol for inhalation by the user.

The aerosol generating device may contain an artefact comprising aerosol generating material for heating. In this context, an "article" is a component that includes or contains, in use, an aerosol generating material and optionally includes or contains, in use, other components that are heated to volatilize the aerosol generating material. The user may insert the article into the aerosol generating device and then heat to generate an aerosol which the user then inhales. For example, the article may have a predetermined or specific size configured to be placed within a heated chamber of an apparatus, the heated chamber being sized to contain the article.

Examples of the present disclosure relate to an aerosol-generating device comprising an inductive heating circuit for inductively heating a susceptor structure. In use, the susceptor structure is configured to heat the aerosol generating material when inductively heated by the inductive heating circuit, thereby generating an aerosol.

The susceptor may be heated by passing a varying magnetic field through the susceptor, the varying magnetic field being generated by an inductor coil or, in some instances, another type of inductive element. The heated susceptor in turn heats the aerosol generating material.

The inductor coil may extend around the susceptor in use. In one example, the susceptor may form part of an aerosol-generating device. In one example, the susceptor defines a reservoir for containing aerosol generating material to be heated. For example, the susceptor may be generally tubular (i.e., hollow) and may be configured to contain the aerosol-generating material within a tubular container defined by the susceptor. In one example, the aerosol generating material is tubular or cylindrical in shape and may be referred to, for example, as a "tobacco rod," and the aerosolizable material may comprise tobacco formed in a particular shape that is subsequently wrapped or wrapped with one or more other materials, such as paper or foil. Alternatively, the susceptor may not be a component of the device, but may be attached to or contained within an article introduced into the device.

When a varying current flows in the induction heating circuit, the circuit emits electromagnetic radiation in use. For example, electromagnetic radiation is emitted when a varying current flows within the inductive element to heat the susceptor structure. The device may also emit electromagnetic radiation during charging of the device. For example, during charging, electromagnetic radiation may be generated due at least to the varying voltage generated in the charging circuitry of the device.

The apparatus may be configured such that the level of emitted electromagnetic radiation in multiple frequency ranges in dB μ V/m is within a predetermined level. For example, the aerosol-generating device may be configured such that, during operation, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in the frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz is less than 40dB μ V/m, and/or such that the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device in the frequency range of 235MHz to 1GHz is less than 47dB μ V/m. The device may be configured such that, during operation, a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device is less than 70dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz, and/or less than 74dB μ V/m in a frequency range of 3GHz to 6 GHz.

In some examples, the average level of emitted radiation for the device over a frequency range of 1GHz to 3GHz during operation may be less than about 50dB μ V/m, and/or the average level of emitted radiation for the device over a frequency range of 3GHz to 6GHz during operation may be less than about 54dB μ V/m.

The level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by a device may be measured by an electromagnetic emission test. In one example, the electromagnetic emission test measures electromagnetic emissions from the device within a frequency range of interest while the device is in operation. The test may be performed when the device is operating in a different manner, such as when charging or when discharging, for example during normal use to generate an aerosol. The device may be configured such that the level of emission radiation emitted by the device is lower than the level described above when the device is charging and when the device is discharging. It should be noted that in some examples, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by a device during operation in one or more particular frequency ranges, such as frequency ranges of 30MHz to 225MHz and/or 235MHz to 1GHz, or any other frequency range described herein, may be substantially zero.

In one example, in an electromagnetic emission test, the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by a device is measured using an antenna located at a standardized location relative to the device. When the antenna measures electromagnetic radiation emitted from the device in the frequency range of interest, the device is caused to operate, e.g., charge or discharge.

In addition, the device may be configured to have a particular level of immunity to electromagnetic radiation. In testing the immunity of a device to electromagnetic radiation, electromagnetic radiation may be emitted from an antenna and incident on the device. The device may be tested to determine whether it continues to operate as intended when and after electromagnetic radiation is incident thereon. The apparatus for testing immunity to electromagnetic radiation may be the same as the apparatus for electromagnetic emission testing. That is, in some examples, the same antenna and a standardized distance between the antenna and the device may be used. In one example, testing for immunity to electromagnetic radiation can subject the device to an electric field of strength 3V/m varying at frequencies from 80MHz to 1GHz, and evaluate any effect of this radiation on the operability of the device.

In some examples, a device may be configured to meet one or more predetermined levels of conducted emissions within a particular frequency range. For example, the level of conducted noise on the cable supplying power to charge the device may be limited to a predetermined level. These levels of conducted transmission can be used to protect broadcast and telecommunications services used in the vicinity of the device. In one example, in a frequency range of 150kHz to 30MHz, the device can be configured such that the level of conducted electromagnetic emissions is less than about 66dB μ V. In an example, at 150kHz to 500kHz, a device may be configured such that the level of conducted electromagnetic emissions is less than about 66dB μ V, wherein at about 150kHz, a device is configured such that the level of conducted electromagnetic emissions is less than about 66dB μ V, and at about 500kHz, the level of conducted electromagnetic emissions is less than about 56dB μ V. In the frequency range of 500kHz to 5MHz, the device can be configured such that the level of conducted electromagnetic emissions is less than about 56dB μ V. In the frequency range of 5MHz to 30MHz, the device may be configured such that the level of conducted electromagnetic emissions is less than about 60dB μ V. In an example, the level of conducted emissions may be determined by measuring the quasi-peak level, which may be measured by well-understood methods.

In order to provide a level of electromagnetic emissions and, in some examples, electromagnetic immunity to the device, as described above, the inventors have provided the following features of the device: which reduces the level of radiation emitted from the device in the relevant frequency range and may also provide immunity to electromagnetic radiation incident on the device. Certain features may also shield components of the device and thus provide a level of immunity to incident electromagnetic radiation. For example, to block/absorb electromagnetic radiation emitted by components of the device, the device may include magnetic shielding components. For example, the magnetic shielding component may extend at least partially around the inductive element so as to shield other nearby electrical devices (and other electrical components of the aerosol generating device) from electromagnetic radiation generated by the inductive element. Where the inductive element is a coil, the magnetic shield may extend around the coil, and the shield may be at least partially bonded to itself to secure it in place around the coil.

The magnetic shielding component may include one or more layers/sheets of ferrite material to mitigate the effects of electromagnetic radiation emitted by components of the device. In addition, magnetic shields may be used to shield components of the device from incident electromagnetic radiation and thus provide a level of immunity to electromagnetic radiation incident on the device.

Typically, the ferrite material may be bonded to the inner surface of the housing/cover of the device, however, this requires a large amount of ferrite material to adequately contain the electromagnetic radiation. This material can be relatively heavy, bulky and expensive, thus requiring a reduction in the amount used.

Some examples herein provide for a more efficient configuration of magnetic shielding components within an aerosol-generating device. Thus, in some examples, a device includes a magnetic shield component in contact with and extending at least partially around an inductor coil. The magnetic shielding component comprises a material, such as a ferrite material, which absorbs/blocks electromagnetic radiation. By being arranged closer to the inductor coil, the amount of ferrite material required is reduced. It has been found that in some cases the amount of material used can be reduced by up to 30% while providing an effective level of electromagnetic shielding.

The inductor coil may extend in a spiral fashion around the susceptor/container. The susceptor may define a longitudinal axis such that the magnetic shield component extends in an azimuthal direction about the longitudinal axis, thus forming a fully or partially tubular structure.

The magnetic shield component can include a magnetic shield layer, such as a ferrite layer. Ferrites are sub-ferromagnetic materials, meaning they can be magnetized and/or attracted to a magnet. In some examples, the magnetic shielding layer is magnetized.

The aerosol generating device may comprise two or more inductor coils. For example, a first inductor coil may extend around a first portion of the container/susceptor and a second inductor coil may extend around a second portion of the container/susceptor. The first inductor coil and the second inductor coil may be disposed adjacent to each other in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the container/susceptor. In such a device, the magnetic shield member can be in contact with and extend at least partially around the first and second inductor coils.

In some configurations, the magnetic shield component may be bonded to the inductor coil by an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer holds the magnetic shielding component in place, thereby ensuring adequate shielding from electromagnetic radiation. An adhesive may be applied to the inductor coil, and the magnetic shield member may be in contact with the adhesive. Alternatively, the magnetic shield component may comprise an adhesive layer, and thus be self-adhesive. For example, the magnetic shield member may include a magnetic shield layer and an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer may be formed on the inner surface of the magnetic shield member (i.e., the surface disposed closest to the inductor coil). This may make the assembly device more efficient and effective. For example, the magnetic shield component can be applied directly to the inductor coil rather than first applying an adhesive to the inductor coil.

The magnetic shield member may be rolled around the inductor coil and at least partially bonded to itself. This configuration provides a higher protective/containment shielding of electromagnetic radiation because the magnetic shielding component is partially or completely sealed along its length. For example, a first edge of the magnetic shield component may overlap a second edge of the magnetic shield component such that the magnetic shield component is bonded/adhered to itself in the overlapping region. Therefore, the magnetic shield member can be formed of a sheet rolled into a tube. For example, bonding may be provided by an adhesive layer of the magnetic shield component.

The magnetic shielding component can include at least one magnetic shielding layer and at least one lamination layer. This may be in addition to or instead of the adhesive layer. It has been found that ferrite materials (i.e., magnetic shielding layers) can begin to break over time due to repeated heating and cooling within the aerosol generating device. The crushed material can become loose and rattle within the device. The loose material may damage or affect other components of the apparatus. By including a laminated layer (such as a film layer), the magnetic shield layer is less likely to be broken and become loose.

The laminated layer may be disposed toward the outer surface of the magnetic shield member. For example, it may be disposed radially outward from the magnetic shield layer. In one example, the laminate layer forms the outer surface of the magnetic shield component. However, in other examples, there may be another layer forming the outer surface. Here, the outer surface is the surface furthest from the inductor coil. The laminate layer can be adhered to the magnetic shield layer via an adhesive, or it can be self-bonded to the magnetic shield layer.

In one example, the laminate layer comprises a plastic material. The laminate layer may be, for example, a plastic film. In a particular example, the plastic is polyethylene terephthalate PET.

The magnetic shield member may be formed from a sheet and include a notch in the sheet, wherein the notch is configured to receive a wire segment forming the inductor coil. The wire segments may include, for example, ends of inductor coils. The inclusion of one or more notches allows the magnetic shielding component to preferably conform to the inductor coil. The notches/cut-outs mean that the lamellae can more easily wrap around the inductor coil while also ensuring a better shielding effect. The notch is an indentation formed at the edge of the sheet.

The sheet may be a square/rectangular sheet, in which one or more notches are "cut out". For example, a rectangular sheet may undergo a "notching" process in which material is removed. Alternatively, the sheet may be manufactured with preformed indentations.

The aerosol-generating device may further comprise a second inductor coil adjacent to the inductor coil, and the sheet may comprise a second notch formed on the sheet. The second notch is configured to receive a wire segment forming a second inductor coil. The inclusion of the additional notches allows the magnetic shielding component to preferably conform to both inductor coils.

In a particular example, the notch is a first notch and can be formed at a first edge of the sheet, and a second notch can be formed at a second edge of the sheet. Forming the notches on different edges can make it easier to apply the magnetic shielding component to the inductor coil. For example, during assembly, the first recess may be aligned with the first inductor coil before wrapping around the inductor coil, with the second recess accommodating the second inductor coil.

The first recess may be offset from the second recess in a direction along a longitudinal axis defined by the container/susceptor. This makes it easier to assemble the device because of the offset of the notches. For example, the notch ensures that the sheet can only be wrapped around the coil in the correct manner.

As mentioned, the notch is an indentation formed at the edge of the sheet. These allow the sheets to be wrapped around the inductor coils after they have been assembled and connected to, for example, a printed circuit board. In another embodiment, the notch may be replaced by a through hole/aperture and the end of the inductor coil may be received in the aperture. This arrangement may provide better shielding than notches, but the magnetic shielding components would need to be wrapped around the inductor coil before the ends of the inductor coil are connected to, for example, a printed circuit board.

In an example, the device includes a rechargeable power source, such as a battery, that is charged via the outlet. The receptacle may receive a charging cable that supplies power to charge the power source. Power may be supplied, for example, from an autonomous power supply or from an external storage power source, such as a battery pack. The device may emit electromagnetic radiation when charged. For example, during charging, switching in the charging circuit may cause a spike of emitted electromagnetic radiation to be emitted by the device. The device is configured such that the emitted radiation including the spikes during the charging operation is within the levels described above.

In an example, a device includes a charging circuit for managing charging of a battery. In some examples, the charge management circuit may also provide power management for various electrical components of the device. For example, the charging circuit may operate as a switch mode charger to provide a desired voltage to the battery for charging. The charging circuit in an example includes a charging management device for performing a switching operation to enable the charging circuit to operate as a switch mode charger. The input section of the charging circuit in the example is connected between the external power source and the charging management device, and the output section of the charging circuit is connected between the charging management device and the battery, or between the charging management device and a component of the device is not part of the charging circuit.

The charging circuit in the examples is configured such that any electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device due to operation of the charging circuit is within the levels described above. For example, the charging circuit may include components to limit the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted during charging. In particular, the charging circuit may include features that limit the level of spikes of electromagnetic radiation due to switching operations during charging. In one example, the features may include a buffer circuit configured to limit a rate of change of voltage between points in the charging circuit during the switching operations. In one example, the snubber circuit includes a resistor and a capacitor connected in series and between a point in the charging circuit and ground. The values of the resistance and capacitance of the buffer circuit may be selected such that the rate of change of the voltage during the switching operation is effectively reduced, i.e., the voltage spike due to the switching operation is effectively "absorbed". The values of the resistance and capacitance of the buffer circuit may depend on any or all of the operating frequency, input voltage, or output voltage of the charging circuit.

The point of the charging circuit to which the buffer circuit is connected may also be selected to effectively reduce voltage spikes. In an example, the output section of the charging circuit includes an output inductor, and the buffer circuit is connected between one end of the output inductor and ground.

In an example, the input section of the charging circuit is configured to limit a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the charging operation. In an example, the input section includes an input capacitor, and the position and capacitance value of the input capacitor can be selected to perform the function of the input capacitor in the switch-mode charging circuit while limiting the emitted electromagnetic radiation to a particular level. In some examples, the input section includes one or more inductors. The number of any such inductors and the characteristics of the inductors, such as inductance and DC resistance, may be selected to limit the level of emitted electromagnetic radiation.

In an example, a layout of a printed circuit board including a charging circuit is configured, and in an example, other electrical components of the device are configured to limit a level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the device.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an example device for measuring the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by an aerosol-generating device 100. In fig. 1, the apparatus 100 is located on a turntable 50, the turntable 50 being located 0.8m above the ground. The rotary table 50 is capable of rotating 360 ° and allows the device to rotate, allowing the maximum emission level to be measured. The antenna 51 is mounted on the antenna tower 52, and the antenna 51 is positioned as a horizontal amount ranging device 1003 m. The antenna tower 52 can be moved from a distance of 1m above the ground to 4m above, allowing the maximum transmission level from the device 100 to be measured in a "maximized" manner as will be well understood. In one example, the antenna 51 is a BiLog ultra wideband antenna. The test receiver 53 is connected to the antenna 51 via a cable 54, so that the test receiver 53 is configured to receive electrical signals from the antenna 51. In an example, the apparatus 100 and other equipment shown in fig. 1 may be located in an insulated chamber. In fig. 1, a charging cable 55 is shown for supplying power from an external power source (not shown) so that the device 100 may be tested during a charging operation of the device 100. In an example, the charging cable 55 includes a YJC010W-0502000J Power Supply Unit (PSU) configured to connect to an external power source. When the device 100 is tested during discharge, such as during operation to generate an aerosol, the charging cable 55 is typically not present.

In some examples, a device such as that shown in FIG. 1 may be used to test the immunity of device 100 to electromagnetic radiation. In one example of such a test, the antenna 51 may be made to emit electromagnetic radiation at a frequency of 80MHz to 1GHz and a field strength of 3V/m. The function of the device 100 may be tested to determine if there is any performance degradation or loss of function due to incident electromagnetic radiation.

FIG. 2 shows a graph of levels of electromagnetic radiation emitted by an example device 100 having an example test device as described with reference to FIG. 1. Fig. 2 shows results from the device 100 during electrical discharge, such as during use to generate an aerosol from aerosol generating material contained in an article held by the device. Graph 2001 shows measured levels of radiation emitted by device 100 in dB μ V/m versus frequencies in Hz, which range from 30Hz to 1 GHz. In this example, the graph 2001 is generated from the combined measurements in the horizontal and vertical planes and may be referred to as a combined horizontal and vertical maximum peak-hold detector preview scan. The first plurality of markers 2002 above the graph 2001 represent the maximized peak detectors measured during a particular reference method and are included therein for reference purposes only. The second plurality of marks 2003 below graph 2001 is a maximum quasi-peak detector that can be compared to a reference level of emitted radiation within a particular frequency range in a manner that will be well understood to define the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by device 100. In an example, the average level of emitted radiation within a particular frequency band may also be determined by methods that will be well understood. Fig. 2 and 3 also include reference lines 2004, which represent reference levels for radiation emission for reference purposes only, as follows: 40dB μ V/m in the frequency range of 30MHz to 88 MHz; 43.5dB μ V/m in the frequency range of 88MHz to 216 MHz; 46dB μ V/m in the frequency range of 216MHz to 960 MHz; and 54dB muV/m in the frequency range of 960MHz to 1 GHz. In some examples, a measured level of radiation emitted by an example device may be compared to such a reference level.

As can be seen from FIG. 2, graph 2001 shows that the level of emitted radiation as device 100 discharges remains well below 40dB μ V/m in the frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz and well below 47dB μ V/m in the frequency range of 235MHz to 1 GHz. This is seen for graph 2001, peak mark 2002, and quasi-peak mark 2003. Furthermore, graph 2001 remains below about 20dB μ V/m between frequencies of 30MHz and about 400 MHz. Graph 2001 remains below about 32.5dB μ V/m over the entire frequency range of 30MHz to 1 GHz.

FIG. 3 shows a graph 3001 of test results obtained according to a method equivalent to that described with respect to FIG. 2. Graph 3001 of fig. 3 is a graph of a level of emitted radiation from device 100 during charging. In the same manner as described with respect to fig. 2, the first plurality of marks 3002 represents a maximized peak detector, and the second plurality of marks 3003 is a maximized quasi-peak detector.

As can be seen from FIG. 3, graph 3001 shows that the level of emitted radiation from device 100 when charging also remains well below 40dB μ V/m in the frequency range of 30MHz to 225MHz and well below 47dB μ V/m in the frequency range of 235MHz to 1 GHz. Furthermore, the graph 3001 maintains less than about 35dB μ V/m at frequencies from 30MHz to about 500MHz and less than about 37.5dB μ V/m over the entire frequency range from 30MHz to 1 GHz.

Fig. 4 shows an example of an aerosol provision device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating medium/material. Briefly, the device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable article 110 containing an aerosol-generating medium to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium to be inhaled by a user of the device 100.

The device 100 includes a housing 102 (in the form of a housing) that surrounds and houses the various components of the device 100. The device 100 has an opening 104 at one end, and an article 110 may be inserted through the opening 104 to be heated by the heating assembly. In use, the article 110 may be fully or partially inserted into a heating assembly where it may be heated by one or more components of the heating assembly.

The device 100 of this example comprises a first end-piece 106, the first end-piece 106 comprising a cover 108, the cover 108 being movable relative to the first end-piece 106 to close the opening 104 when no product 110 is placed. In fig. 4, the lid 108 is shown in the open assembly, however the lid 108 may be moved to the closed assembly. For example, the user may slide the cover 108 in the direction of arrow "a".

The device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 112, such as a button or switch, that operates the device 100 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the switch 112.

The device 100 may also include electrical components, such as a jack/port 114, that may receive a cable to charge a battery of the device 100. For example, the receptacle 114 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port or, in particular, a USC-B charging port.

Fig. 5 depicts the device 100 of fig. 4 with the cover 102 removed. The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134.

As shown in fig. 5, a first end component 106 is disposed at one end of the device 100 and a second end component 116 is disposed at an opposite end of the device 100. Together, the first end-piece 106 and the second end-piece 116 at least partially define an end-face of the device 100. For example, a bottom surface of second end member 116 at least partially defines a bottom surface of device 100. The edges of the housing 102 may also define a portion of the end face. In this example, cover 108 also defines a portion of the top surface of device 100. Fig. 5 also shows a second printed circuit board 138 associated with the control element 112.

The end of the device closest to the opening 104 may be referred to as the proximal (or buccal) end of the device 100, since it is closest to the user's mouth during use. In use, a user inserts the article 110 into the opening 104, operates the user controls 112 to begin heating the aerosol generating material and drawing in the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along the flow path toward the proximal end of the device 100.

The end of the device furthest from the opening 104 may be referred to as the distal end of the device 100, since in use it is the end furthest from the mouth of the user. When a user inhales the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of the device 100.

The device 100 also includes a power supply 118. The power source 118 may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the heating assembly to supply power when needed and under the control of a controller (not shown) to heat the aerosol generating material. In this example, the batteries are connected to a central support 120 that holds the batteries 118 in place.

The device further comprises at least one electronic module 122. The electronic module 122 may comprise, for example, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and memory. PCB 122 may also include one or more electrical traces for electrically connecting the various electronic components of device 100 together. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB 122 so that power may be distributed throughout the device 100. The receptacle 114 may also be electrically coupled to the battery via an electrical rail.

In the example apparatus 100, the heating assembly is an induction heating assembly and includes various components for heating the aerosol generating material of the article 110 via an induction heating process. Induction heating is the process of heating an electrically conductive object, such as a susceptor, by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may include an inductive element, such as one or more inductor coils; and means for passing a varying current, such as an alternating current, through the inductive element. The varying current in the inductive element generates a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor that is suitably positioned relative to the inductive element and generates eddy currents within the susceptor. The susceptor has an electrical resistance to eddy currents, and thus the flow of eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to heat by joule heating. In the case of susceptors comprising ferromagnetic materials such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat may also be generated by hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e. by the varying orientation of the magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material due to their alignment with the varying magnetic field. In induction heating, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating, as compared to heating by, for example, electrical conduction. Furthermore, there does not have to be any physical contact between the induction heater and the susceptor, allowing for enhanced freedom in construction and application.

The induction heating assembly of the example device 100 includes a susceptor structure 132 (referred to herein as a "susceptor"), a first inductor coil 124, and a second inductor coil 126. The first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made of a conductive material. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made of stranded wire/cable that is wound in a spiral manner to provide the spiral inductor coils 124, 126. Twisted enameled wires comprise a plurality of individual wires individually insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. Twisted enameled wires are designed to reduce skin effect losses in the conductor. In the example device 100, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made of copper stranded enameled wire having a substantially circular cross section. In other examples, the stranded enameled wire may have a cross-section of other shapes, such as a rectangle.

The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first varying magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor 132, and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second varying magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor 132. Herein, a first section of the susceptor 132 is referred to as a first susceptor region 132a and a second section of the susceptor 132 is referred to as a second susceptor region 132 b. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100 (i.e., the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 do not overlap). In this example, the susceptor structure 132 comprises a single susceptor comprising two zones, however, in other examples, the susceptor structure 132 may comprise two or more separate susceptors. The ends 130 of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are connected to the PCB 122.

It will be appreciated that, in some examples, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 may have at least one characteristic that is different from one another. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may have at least one characteristic different from the second inductor coil 126. More particularly, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different inductance value than the second inductor coil 126. In fig. 5, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 have different lengths such that the first inductor coil 124 is wound on a smaller section of the susceptor 132 than the second inductor coil 126. Thus, the first inductor coil 124 may include a different number of turns than the second inductor coil 126 (assuming that the spacing between the individual turns is substantially the same). In another example, the first inductor coil 124 may be made of a different material than the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 may be substantially identical.

In this example, the inductor coils 124126 are wound in the same direction as each other. That is, both the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are left-handed spirals. In another example, both inductor coils 124, 126 may be right-hand spirals. In another example (not shown), the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are wound in opposite directions. This may be applicable when the inductor coil is active at different times. For example, initially, the first inductor coil 124 may be operated to heat a first section of the article 110, and later, the second inductor coil 126 may be operated to heat a second section of the article 110. Winding the coils in opposite directions helps to reduce the current induced in the coils when not in operation when used in conjunction with a particular type of control circuit. In one example where the coils 124, 126 are wound in different directions (not shown), the first inductor coil 124 may be a right-hand spiral and the second inductor coil 126 may be a left-hand spiral. In another such embodiment, the first inductor coil 124 may be a left-side spiral and the second inductor coil 126 may be a right-side spiral.

The susceptor 132 of this example is hollow and thus defines a reservoir for containing aerosol generating material. For example, article 110 may be inserted into susceptor 132. In this example, the susceptor 132 is tubular with a circular cross-section.

The apparatus 100 of fig. 5 also includes an insulating member 128, which may be generally tubular and at least partially surrounds the susceptor 132. The insulating member 128 may be constructed of any insulating material, such as a plastic material. In this particular example, the insulating member is constructed of Polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 may help insulate the various components of the apparatus 100 from heat generated in the susceptor 132.

The insulating member 128 may also fully or partially support the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. For example, as shown in fig. 5, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are positioned around the insulating member 128 and in contact with a radially outward surface of the insulating member 128. In some examples, the insulating member 128 does not abut the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. For example, there may be a small gap between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and the inner surfaces of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126.

In a particular example, the susceptor 132, the insulating member 128, and the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132.

Fig. 6 shows a side view of the device 100 in partial cross-section. In this example, the housing 102 is also absent. The circular cross-sectional shape of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 is more clearly visible in fig. 6.

The apparatus 100 also includes a support 136 that engages an end of the susceptor 132 to hold the susceptor 132 in place. The support 136 is connected to the second end member 116.

The device 100 also includes a second cap 140 and a spring 142 disposed toward the distal end of the device 100. The spring 142 allows the second cover 140 to be opened to provide access to the susceptor 132. The user may, for example, open the second cover 140 to clean the susceptor 132 and/or the support 136.

The device 100 also includes an expansion chamber 144 that extends away from the proximal end of the susceptor 132 toward the opening 104 of the device. The retention clip 146 is located at least partially within the expansion chamber 144 to abut and retain the article 110 when the article 110 is received within the device 100. The expansion chamber 144 is connected to the tip component 106.

Fig. 6 also shows a charging printed circuit board 123 that is located adjacent to the outlet 114 and may have been located at its charging apparatus (an example of which is described below with reference to fig. 16) for providing charging and power supply functionality for the device 100.

Fig. 7 is an exploded view of the device 100 of fig. 4, with the housing 102 also omitted.

Fig. 8A depicts a cross-section of a portion of the device 100 of fig. 4. FIG. 8B depicts a close-up view of a region of FIG. 8A. Figures 8A and 8B show article 110 contained within susceptor 132, wherein article 110 is sized such that an outer surface of article 110 abuts an inner surface of susceptor 132. This ensures the most efficient heating. The article 110 of this example comprises an aerosol generating material 110 a. The aerosol-generating material 110a is positioned within the susceptor 132. The article 110 may also include other components such as filters, packaging materials, and/or cooling structures.

Figure 8B shows that the outer surface of the susceptor 132 is spaced apart from the inner surfaces of the inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 150, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 150 is about 3mm to 4mm, about 3mm to 3.5mm, or about 3.25 mm.

Figure 8B further shows that the outer surface of the insulating member 128 is spaced from the inner surface of the inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 152, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 152 is about 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance 152 is substantially 0mm such that the inductor coils 124, 126 abut and touch the insulating member 128.

In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of about 0.025mm to 1mm, or about 0.05 mm.

In one example, the susceptor 132 has a length of about 40mm to 60mm, about 40mm to 45mm, or about 44.5 mm.

In one example, the insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of about 0.25mm to 2mm, 0.25mm to 1mm, or about 0.5 mm.

Fig. 9 depicts a perspective view of the printed circuit board PCB 122, susceptor 132, first inductor coil 124, and second inductor coil 126. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made of wires having a circular cross section. First end 130a and second end 130b of first inductor coil 124 are connected to PCB 122. Similarly, first end 130c and second end 130d of second inductor coil 126 are connected to PCB 122. In some examples, there may be only one inductor coil.

The magnetic shield member 202 extends around the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. The magnetic shielding member 202 is in contact with and surrounds the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 to shield other components and/or other objects of the apparatus 100 from electromagnetic radiation generated within the susceptor and/or the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. The magnetic shield member 202 is depicted as transparent to clearly show the inductor coils 124, 126 and susceptor 132 disposed within the magnetic shield member 202. In this example, the magnetic shield member 202 is held in place via an adhesive. In other examples, other features/components of the device 100 and/or the magnetic shield 202 can hold the magnetic shield 202 in place.

The susceptor 132 contains the article 110 and thus defines a container configured to contain the aerosol generating material. In other examples (not shown), the susceptor 132 is part of the article 110 and not the device 100, and thus other components may define a reservoir. The container/susceptor 132 defines an axis 158, such as a longitudinal axis 158, about which the magnetic shield component 202 is wrapped.

The magnetic shield 202 includes one or more components that act as shields against electromagnetic radiation. In this example, the magnetic shield member 202 includes a magnetic shield layer, such as a ferrite layer, which serves as a shield.

The magnetic shield component 202 can include one or more other layers. For example, the magnetic shield component 202 can also include an adhesive layer and/or a laminate layer, as described in FIG. 10.

Fig. 10 is a diagrammatic representation of a cross section of an example magnetic shield member 202 prior to being wrapped around the first inductor coil 123 and the second inductor coil 126. The magnetic shield member 202 is in a sheet shape.

In this example, the magnetic shield component 202 comprises at least three layers, including a magnetic shield layer 206, an adhesive layer 204 applied to a first side of the magnetic shield layer 206, and a lamination layer 208 applied to a second side of the magnetic shield layer 206.

The adhesive layer 204 is disposed on the inner surface of the magnetic shield member 202 so that the magnetic shield member 202 can be bonded to the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. An additional protective layer (not shown) may cover the adhesive layer 204, which is then removed to expose the adhesive layer 204 before the magnetic shield member 202 is adhered to the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. The inner surface of the magnetic shield member 202 is the surface closest to the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 when the magnetic shield member 202 is in contact with the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. When the magnetic shield component 202 is wrapped around the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126, the magnetic shield component itself may overlap in the area of overlap such that a portion of the adhesive layer 204 is in contact with the lamination layer 208.

The lamination layer 208 is disposed at or toward the outer surface of the magnetic shield member 202. The outer surface of the magnetic shield member 202 is the surface that is farthest from the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 when the magnetic shield member 202 is in contact with the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, another layer (not shown) forms an outer surface of the magnetic shield member 202.

As previously mentioned, the ferrite material in the magnetic shield layer 206 can break up over several heating and cooling cycles. The lamination layer 208 serves to prevent pulverized material in the magnetic shield layer 206 from loosening and moving around inside the device 100. The lamination layer 208 may comprise a plastic material, and may be, for example, a plastic film. In this example, the plastic is polyethylene terephthalate PET.

In the example of fig. 10, the lamination layer 208 is directly adjacent to the magnetic shield layer 208. For example, the lamination layer 208 may be bonded to the magnetic shield layer 208 via heat sealing. In another example, a second adhesive layer (not shown) can be configured between the lamination layer 208 and the magnetic shield layer 206.

FIG. 11 depicts a top view of the configuration shown in FIG. 9. A reservoir 212 defined by the susceptor 132 contains the aerosol generating material therein. Arrow 210 indicates the radial direction, which is directed outwards from the reservoir/susceptor. When the magnetic shield member 202 of fig. 10 is wrapped around the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126, the lamination layer 208 is configured to be farther away from the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 in the radial direction 210 than the adhesive layer 204.

As shown in fig. 9 and 11, the first end 130a and the second end 130b of the first inductor coil 124 pass through a notch/opening/aperture formed in the magnetic shield member 202. Such notches allow the magnetic shield member 202 to more closely conform to the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126.

FIG. 12 depicts a magnetic shield 202 insulated from other components. The sheet-like magnetic shield member 202 is rolled into a cylindrical tube and overlapped in the overlapping region 224. The presence of the adhesive layer 204 means that the magnetic shield component 202 can bond to itself in the overlap region 224, thereby providing improved shielding. In other examples, the magnetic shield member 202 does not extend completely around the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126.

The magnetic shield member 202 includes four notches 214, 216, 218, 220. In other examples, one or more notches may be present. Notches 214, 216, 218, 220 are formed at the edges of the magnetic shield member 202 and each receive a segment of wire forming the inductor coils 124, 126. The wire segments include first ends 130a, 130c and second ends 130b, 130d of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 as depicted in fig. 9.

Fig. 13 is a diagrammatic representation of the magnetic shield member 202 of fig. 12 prior to being wrapped around the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. The magnetic shield member 202 is formed of a substantially rectangular sheet. The sheet defines an axis 222 that is aligned parallel to the axis defined by the container/susceptor 132 and the axis defined by the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 when the magnetic shield component 202 is wrapped around the inductor coils 124, 126.

The sheet includes a first notch 214 formed at a first edge 224 of the sheet. The first recess 214 receives a wire segment forming the first inductor coil 124, wherein the wire segment includes a first end 130 a. The sheet also includes a first notch 218 formed at a first edge 224 of the sheet. The second recess 218 receives a wire segment forming the second inductor coil 126, wherein the wire segment includes a first end 130 c. The sheet also includes a third recess 216 formed at a second edge 226 of the sheet. The third recess 216 receives a second wire segment forming the first inductor coil 124, wherein the second wire segment includes a second end 130 b. The sheet also includes a fourth notch 220 formed at a second edge 226 of the sheet. The fourth notch 220 receives a second wire segment forming the second inductor coil 126, wherein the second wire segment includes a second end 130 b. Thus, for each inductor coil, there are two notches formed on opposite edges of the sheet.

The notches 214, 216, 218, 220 are all offset from each other in a direction along an axis 222 defined by the sheet (and thus all offset from each other in a direction along a longitudinal axis 158 defined by the susceptor 132 when the magnetic shield component 202 is in place).

FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic representation of another example magnetic shield member 302 that can be used in the device 100. The magnetic shield member 302 is formed of a substantially rectangular sheet. The sheet defines an axis 322 that is aligned parallel to the axis defined by the container/susceptor 132 and the axis defined by the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 when the magnetic shield component 202 is wrapped around the inductor coils 124, 126.

Unlike the example of fig. 13, the magnetic shield member 302 includes a notch formed along one edge of the sheet. For example, the sheet includes a first notch 314 formed at a first edge 324 of the sheet. The first recess 314 receives a wire segment forming the first inductor coil 124, wherein the wire segment includes a first end 130 a. The sheet also includes a second notch 318 formed at a first edge 324 of the sheet. The second recess 318 receives a wire segment forming the second inductor coil 126, wherein the wire segment includes the first end 130 c. The sheet also includes a third notch 316 formed at a first edge 324 of the sheet. The third recess 316 receives a second wire segment forming the first inductor coil 124, wherein the second wire segment includes a second end 130 b. The sheet also includes a fourth notch 320 formed at a first edge 324 of the sheet. The fourth notch 320 receives a second wire segment forming the second inductor coil 126, wherein the second wire segment includes a second end 130 b. Thus, for each inductor coil, there are two notches formed at the same edge of the sheet.

The notches 314, 316, 318, 320 are all offset from each other in a direction along an axis 322 defined by the sheet (and thus are all offset from each other in a direction along the longitudinal axis 158 defined by the susceptor 132 when the magnetic shield component 302 is in place).

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of another example magnetic shield member 402 that can be used in device 100. The magnetic shield member 402 is formed of a substantially rectangular sheet. The sheet defines an axis 422 that is aligned parallel to the axis defined by the container/susceptor 132 and the axis defined by the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 when the magnetic shield component 202 is wrapped around the inductor coils 124, 126.

Unlike the examples of fig. 13 and 14, the magnetic shield member 402 includes openings/apertures/through holes formed in a thin sheet. Thus, the ends of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 must first pass through the aperture before connecting to the PCB 122.

The sheet includes a first aperture 414 that receives a wire segment that forms the first inductor coil 124, wherein the wire segment includes a first end 130 a. The sheet also includes a second aperture 418 that receives a wire segment that forms the second inductor coil 126, wherein the wire segment includes the first end 130 c. The sheet also includes a third aperture 416 that receives a second section of wire that forms the first inductor coil 124, where the second section of wire includes the second end 130 b. The sheet also includes a fourth aperture 420 that receives a second wire segment that forms the second inductor coil 126, wherein the second wire segment includes a second end 130 b.

The apertures 414, 416, 418, 420 are all offset from one another in a direction along an axis 422 defined by the sheet (and thus all offset from one another in a direction along a longitudinal axis 158 defined by the susceptor 132 when the magnetic shield component 302 is in place).

Fig. 16 shows a schematic representation of an apparatus 500 of the aerosol-generating device 100. The description of fig. 16 herein will focus on certain features of apparatus 500 that are configured to reduce the emission of electromagnetic radiation from device 100. Apparatus 500 is housed in device 100, and in some examples may be housed on a printed circuit board 123 adjacent to receptacle 114, and is used to control the charging of battery 118 from an external power source (not shown). The apparatus 500 includes a charge management device 550. The charge management device 550 of this example is a Texas Instruments bq25898 integrated circuit charge management and system power path management device, the general operation of which will be understood in light of the known specifications for this integrated circuit device. The charging management device 550 is connected to an external power source through the input section 510. The apparatus 500 further comprises an output section 520 connected between terminals of the charge management device 550. In this example, the charging management device 550 also acts as a power management system to control the supply of DC power to the other electrical components of the device 100. Thus, the apparatus 500 may act as an interface between an external power source and the battery 118, and may further act as an interface between the battery 118 and other electrical components of the device 100.

Apparatus 500 is configured to provide a level of emitted electromagnetic radiation from device 100 while charging, allowing the device to meet the level of radiated electromagnetic emission described above. The input section 510 and the output section 520 are configured to limit the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the apparatus 500 during charging of the device 100. In particular, the apparatus 500 is configured to limit the peak of emitted radiation during power cycling and switching operations performed by the charge management device 550 during charging.

The input section 510 of the charging apparatus 500 is configured to receive a 5V input 511 from the USB-C charging port 114. The input inductor L3 is connected between the input terminal 511 and a first connection VBUS of the charge management device 550 via a first line 512. Inductor L3 has an impedance of 120 Ω +/-25% at 100MHz and has a DC resistance of 25m Ω. Inductor L3 is selected to reduce the emission of electromagnetic radiation from charging apparatus 500. The input inductor L3 is configured to reduce high frequency signals emanating from the apparatus 500. The reference signal +5USB is taken at a point on the first line 512 between the charge management device 550 and the input inductor L3. In addition, the input section 510 includes a second line 513 connected between the input terminal 511 and a second connection PMID of the charge management device 550. On the second line 513, a 100nF capacitor C7 is connected in series between the input terminal 511 and ground. The 10 μ F capacitor C113 and the 1nF capacitor C142 are connected in parallel on a second line 513 between ground and the second connection PMID. Various capacitors C4, C12, C6, C141, C110 and a diode D3 are connected in parallel between the first line 512 and the second line 513. The arrangement of components defining the input section 510 serves to reduce the level of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the apparatus 500. For example, inductor L3 and various capacitors may provide filtering effects on various frequency signals.

The output section 520 of the apparatus 500 is connected to the third connection SW, the fourth connection BTST and the fifth connection SYS of the charge management device 550. The third connection SW is a switching node connected to a 1 muh output inductor L102, the output inductor L102 being connected between the third connection SW and a fifth connection SYS. The 47nF capacitor C109 and the 10 Ω resistor are connected in series to the fourth connection BTST. Two 10 muf capacitors C117, C138 are connected in parallel between the fifth connection SYS and ground. The functionality of the connections SW, SYS, BTST on the output section 520 of the bq25898 charge management controller 550 will be well understood, for example, from the technical specification documentation for this controller as produced by texas instruments.

The output section 520 includes a "buffer circuit" connected between the third connection SW and ground. The buffer circuit includes a 2.2nF capacitor C136 and an approximately 1 Ω resistor R137 connected in series and used to reduce, i.e., "absorb," transient signals that might otherwise be picked up by the charge management device 550 and cause unwanted electromagnetic emissions. The inventors have found that the location of the snubber circuit including capacitors C136 and R137 as shown in fig. 16 allows for a reduction in electromagnetic emissions due to voltage spikes generated particularly during switch charging operations.

The layout of the components forming the apparatus 500 on the PCB 122 within the device 100 may also be configured such that the level of electromagnetic radiation during charging remains within the levels described above. For example, the orientation of inductor L102 on PCB 122 is selected to limit the levels of emitted radiation, while the effectiveness of the components is optimized to reduce electrical noise. Effective grounding may be achieved, for example, by providing a good contact area between a particular component and PCB 122.

In some examples, the device 100, such as a controller (not shown) of the device 100, is configured to output rapidly varying voltage signals to control various functions of the device 100. For example, a varying voltage signal at a particular frequency may be used to supply control functions to an induction heating circuit including coils 124, 126. In some examples, such rapidly varying signals may be filtered to remove certain AC frequencies and thereby provide a substantially constant signal at a given frequency in order to provide a particular reference voltage for controlling a particular aspect of the inductive circuitry, such as including the coils 124, 126. For example, in one example, the filtered 20kHz pulse wave modulated signal can be filtered by suitable filtering components, such as a structure having capacitors and resistors, to provide a substantially constant reference voltage at a lower frequency, such as 64 Hz. This reference voltage may be used to control aspects of the sensing circuitry used to operate the inductors 124, 126. In some examples, the device is configured to limit the peak level of emitted electromagnetic radiation by imposing a portion of the higher frequency (e.g., 20kHz) signal on the lower frequency signal. In some examples, this effect may be achieved by appropriately selecting filtering components, such as capacitors and resistors. This may provide for spreading of the energy of the signal over a wider bandwidth and thus provide for lower electromagnetic emissions from the device 100 than if the higher frequency signal were more completely filtered out.

The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention are contemplated. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.