Aerosol generating system

Abstract

An aerosol generating system includes: an aerosol generating device including a first vaporizer, a second vaporizer, and a control unit, wherein the first vaporizer generates a first aerosol by heating a first liquid composition, and the second vaporizer generates a second aerosol by heating a second liquid composition; the control unit controls the first and second vaporizers, as well as an aerosol-generating article housed in the aerosol generating device and indirectly heated by heat generated in the first and second vaporizers; the control unit controls the power supplied to the first and second vaporizers based on a first mode and a second mode, wherein a smokeless aerosol is generated in the first mode and the nicotine delivery amount in the aerosol-generating article is adjusted in the second mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system capable of generating smokeless aerosol or smoke aerosol by controlling the power of multiple vaporizers. Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods for overcoming the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for methods for generating aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating substance in a cigarette or a liquid storage portion rather than by burning the cigarette.

[0003] However, existing aerosol generating devices have the following problems: they cannot be switched from a smokeless aerosol generating mode to a smoke aerosol generating mode, and the delivery amount of flavor, nicotine, etc. cannot be adjusted according to the user's preference. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0005] The technical problem of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system capable of adjusting the amount of aerosol generated.

[0006] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to the above technical problems, and other technical problems can be derived from the following examples.

[0007] Means used to solve problems

[0008] An aerosol generating system according to one aspect includes: an aerosol generating device including a first vaporizer, a second vaporizer, and a control unit, wherein the first vaporizer generates a first aerosol by heating a first liquid composition, and the second vaporizer generates a second aerosol by heating a second liquid composition; the control unit controls the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer, and an aerosol generating article, which is housed in the aerosol generating device and is indirectly heated by heat generated in the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer; the control unit can control the power supplied to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer based on a first mode and a second mode, generating a smokeless aerosol in the first mode and adjusting the delivery amount of nicotine in the aerosol generating article in the second mode.

[0009] On the other hand, an aerosol-generating device includes: a cavity for inserting an aerosol-generating article, a first vaporizer for generating a first aerosol by heating a first liquid composition, a second vaporizer for generating a second aerosol by heating a second liquid composition, a battery for supplying power to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer, and a control unit for controlling the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer; the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer indirectly heat the aerosol-generating article inserted in the cavity, and the control unit can control the power supplied to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer based on a first mode and a second mode, generating a smokeless aerosol in the first mode and adjusting the nicotine delivery amount in the aerosol-generating article in the second mode.

[0010] In yet another aspect, an aerosol-generating system includes an aerosol-generating device including a first vaporizer, a second vaporizer, and a control unit, wherein the first vaporizer generates a first aerosol by heating a first liquid composition, and the second vaporizer generates a second aerosol by heating a second liquid composition. The control unit controls the first and second vaporizers, as well as an aerosol-generating article housed in the aerosol-generating device and indirectly heated by heat generated in the first and second vaporizers. The control unit controls power supplied to the first and second vaporizers based on first and second modes, wherein a smokeless aerosol is generated in the first mode and a nicotine delivery amount in the aerosol-generating article is adjusted in the second mode. The first vaporizer includes a first cavity portion, and the second vaporizer includes a second cavity portion. The first and second vaporizers are detachably coupled to each other. When the first and second vaporizers are coupled to each other, the first and second cavity portions form a cavity into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] The aerosol generating system and aerosol generating device of the present invention have the following advantages: they can be switched to a smokeless mode for generating smokeless aerosol and a smoke mode for generating smoke aerosol according to needs.

[0013] In addition, aerosol generating systems and aerosol generating devices have the advantage that the delivery amount of flavor, nicotine, etc. can be adjusted according to the user's preference.

[0014] In addition, since the cigarettes are indirectly heated by the heat generated in the plurality of vaporizers, no additional heater for heating the cigarettes is required, thereby having an advantage of reduced power consumption.

[0015] The effects of the invention are not limited to the above, and various effects are included in this specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 : is a diagram schematically showing the aerosol generating system of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a first vaporizer, a second vaporizer, and an aerosol-generating article.

[0018] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the aerosol-generating article of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 It is a diagram for explaining a method of combining a first vaporizer and a second vaporizer and a method of forming a cavity according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining a method of combining a first vaporizer and a second vaporizer and a method of forming a cavity according to another embodiment.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a flowchart for explaining the method of operating the aerosol generating system of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] An aerosol generating system according to one aspect includes: an aerosol generating device including a first vaporizer, a second vaporizer, and a control unit, wherein the first vaporizer generates a first aerosol by heating a first liquid composition, and the second vaporizer generates a second aerosol by heating a second liquid composition; the control unit controls the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer, and an aerosol generating article, which is housed in the aerosol generating device and is indirectly heated by heat generated in the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer; the control unit can control the power supplied to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer based on a first mode and a second mode, generating a smokeless aerosol in the first mode and adjusting the delivery amount of nicotine in the aerosol generating article in the second mode.

[0023] In addition, the aerosol generating device includes a cavity for inserting the aerosol generating article, and the cavity may be formed by combining the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer.

[0024] In addition, the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer are formed as an integral body, and the integrated first vaporizer and second vaporizer include a cavity for inserting the aerosol-generating article. The first vaporizer includes a first liquid storage portion for storing the first liquid composition, and the second vaporizer includes a second liquid storage portion for storing the second liquid composition. The first liquid storage portion and the second liquid storage portion may be separated by a partition.

[0025] Additionally, the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer may be arranged such that at least one of the first aerosol and the second aerosol passes through the aerosol-generating article.

[0026] In addition, the first liquid composition includes a first moisturizing agent, and the first moisturizing agent may be a mixture of vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol at a predetermined ratio.

[0027] In addition, the ratio of the vegetable glycerin to the propylene glycol of the first humectant may be 4:1 to 9:1.

[0028] Furthermore, the second liquid composition may contain a second moisturizing agent, and the second moisturizing agent may contain only propylene glycol.

[0029] Additionally, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a tobacco medium-receiving portion and a filter portion.

[0030] In addition, the nicotine may be contained in the tobacco medium containing portion.

[0031] Additionally, the aerosol-generating article may further include a thermally conductive wrapper that surrounds the tobacco medium housing portion and transfers heat generated in the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer to the tobacco medium housing portion.

[0032] In addition, the aerosol generating device includes a cavity for inserting the aerosol generating article, and the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer can indirectly heat the aerosol generating article by heating the cavity.

[0033] Additionally, the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer may indirectly heat the aerosol-generating article to a temperature between 150°C and 250°C.

[0034] Additionally, in the first mode, the control unit may supply power only to the second vaporizer.

[0035] In addition, in the second mode, the control unit may selectively supply power to the second vaporizer while supplying power to the first vaporizer.

[0036] In addition, the aerosol generating device may further include a communication unit for communicating with an external device.

[0037] In addition, the communication unit may receive a remote control signal from the external device, and the control unit may control the power supplied to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer based on the remote control signal.

[0038] On the other hand, an aerosol-generating device includes: a cavity for inserting an aerosol-generating article, a first vaporizer for generating a first aerosol by heating a first liquid composition, a second vaporizer for generating a second aerosol by heating a second liquid composition, a battery for supplying power to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer, and a control unit for controlling the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer; the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer indirectly heat the aerosol-generating article inserted in the cavity, and the control unit can control the power supplied to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer based on a first mode and a second mode, generating a smokeless aerosol in the first mode and adjusting the nicotine delivery amount in the aerosol-generating article in the second mode.

[0039] Furthermore, the first liquid composition includes a first moisturizing agent, and the first moisturizing agent may be a mixture of vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol at a predetermined ratio.

[0040] Furthermore, the second liquid composition may contain a second moisturizing agent, and the second moisturizing agent may contain only propylene glycol.

[0041] In addition, the control unit may supply power only to the second vaporizer in the first mode, and may selectively supply power to the second vaporizer while supplying power to the first vaporizer in the second mode.

[0042] The terms used in the embodiments are, based on the functions of the present invention, selected to adopt commonly used terms that are currently in wide use, as much as possible. However, these terms may change based on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant may be used, but in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the corresponding invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply based on the names of the terms.

[0043] When a section throughout the specification refers to "including" certain components, unless otherwise stated, it indicates that the system may also include other components, not that it excludes them. Furthermore, terms such as "unit" and "module" used in the specification refer to a unit for processing at least one function or operation, which may be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. However, the aerosol generating device and aerosol generating system of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described herein but can be implemented in various different ways.

[0045] In the following embodiments, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to refer to the relative positions of the segments comprising an aerosol-generating article relative to the direction of air inhaled by a user using the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article includes a downstream end (i.e., the portion into which air flows) and an upstream end (i.e., the portion from which air flows out). When using the aerosol-generating article, the user can hold the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article in their mouth. The downstream end is located downstream of the upstream end. Alternatively, the term "end" can be used to describe a "terminal end."

[0046] In the following embodiments, the output of the vaporizer may have the same meaning as the power consumption of the vaporizer.

[0047] In the following embodiments, the term "indirect heating" may refer to a heating element (e.g., a heater) heating a heat medium element (e.g., air), which transfers heat to the aerosol-generating article 2 through convection, radiation, etc., rather than the heating element being in direct contact with the aerosol-generating article 2 to directly heat the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0048] In the drawings, the sizes of various components may be exaggerated or reduced for ease of explanation. For example, the sizes and thicknesses of various structures are arbitrarily shown in the drawings for ease of explanation, and therefore, the present invention is not necessarily limited to the drawings.

[0049] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 : is a diagram schematically showing the aerosol generating system of the present invention.

[0051] Referring to the drawings, an aerosol generating system 10 may include an aerosol generating device 1 and an aerosol generating article 2 .

[0052] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a battery 110 , a control unit 120 , a first vaporizer 130 , a second vaporizer 140 , a communication unit 150 , and an input unit 160 . Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a cavity 170 for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2 .

[0053] Figure 1 The components related to this embodiment are shown. Furthermore, those skilled in the art of the present embodiment should understand that the aerosol generating device 1 may also include Figure 1 Other common components besides the components shown.

[0054] in addition, Figure 1The arrangement of the battery 110, the control unit 120, the first vaporizer 130, the second vaporizer 140, the communication unit 150 and the input unit 160 is only an example, and the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 of the present invention is not limited to Figure 1 In other words, the arrangement of the battery 110 , the control unit 120 , the first vaporizer 130 , the second vaporizer 140 , the communication unit 150 , and the input unit 160 may vary depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0055] When the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1, the aerosol-generating device 1 can generate an aerosol by operating at least one of the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140. The aerosol generated by the first vaporizer 130 and / or the second vaporizer 140 is delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0056] If necessary, the aerosol-generating device 1 may heat the first vaporizer 130 and / or the second vaporizer 140 even when the aerosol-generating article 2 is not inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1 .

[0057] The battery 110 can provide the power required for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 110 can provide power to heat the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140, and can provide power required for the operation of the control unit 120. In addition, the battery 110 can provide power required for the operation of the display, sensors, motors, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0058] The control unit 120 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 120 can control not only the battery 110, the first vaporizer 130, and the second vaporizer 140, but also the operations of other components of the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, the control unit 120 can determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state by checking the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0059] The control unit 120 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing programs executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor may also be implemented in other hardware forms.

[0060] The cavity 170 may accommodate the aerosol-generating article 2. The cavity 170 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0061] Meanwhile, the heat generated in the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 heats the air in the cavity 170, and the aerosol-generating article 2 is indirectly heated by the heated air. In other words, the cavity 170 transfers the heat generated in the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 to the aerosol-generating article 2. Therefore, the cavity 170 functions as a heating chamber while serving as a space for accommodating the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0062] The first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 can generate aerosol by heating the liquid composition therein, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the aerosol generating article 2 .

[0063] The first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 can be housed in the aerosol generating device 1 while containing the liquid composition. When the liquid composition is completely consumed, the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 can be replaced with new vaporizers. According to an embodiment, only the liquid storage portion ( Figure 2 131, 141).

[0064] The liquid composition may include an aerosol-generating substance for generating an aerosol. The first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 may generate an aerosol by converting the phase of the aerosol-generating substance thereinto a gas phase. The aerosol may refer to a gas in a state where vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating substance are mixed with air.

[0065] For example, the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 may heat the aerosol generating substance by receiving an electrical signal from the control portion 120 , or change the phase of the aerosol generating substance using an induction heating method.

[0066] The first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 may include heating elements for heating the aerosol-generating substance. The first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 may indirectly heat the aerosol-generating article 2 using the heating elements.

[0067] The first vaporizer 130 may contain a liquid composition for generating a smoke aerosol. The second vaporizer 140 may contain a liquid composition for generating a smokeless aerosol.

[0068] The control unit 120 may adjust whether smoke aerosol and / or smokeless aerosol are generated, the generated amount, etc. by controlling the power supplied to the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 .

[0069] The control unit 120 may control the power supplied to the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 based on a first mode for generating a smokeless aerosol and a second mode for adjusting the delivery amount of nicotine in the aerosol-generating article.

[0070] When power is supplied to the first vaporizer 130, a first aerosol containing smoke may be generated. In addition, when power is supplied to the second vaporizer 140, a second aerosol without smoke may be generated.

[0071] The aerosol-generating article 2 may be indirectly heated by the first vaporizer 130 . Alternatively, the aerosol-generating article 2 may be indirectly heated by the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 .

[0072] The first aerosol and the second aerosol can be delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2. At this time, the first aerosol and the second aerosol can deliver nicotine in the aerosol-generating article 2 to the user.

[0073] On the other hand, Figure 2 Detailed description is given of the indirect heating method of the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 and the power control method in each mode.

[0074] The input unit 160 can receive user input. For example, the input unit 160 can be implemented in the form of a push button.

[0075] Upon receiving an operation command for the aerosol generating device 1, the input unit 160 may transmit a control signal corresponding to the operation command to the control unit 120. For example, the operation command may include an on / off command, a mode change command, a power control command, or a communication command with an external device. The control unit 120 may control various components within the aerosol generating device 1 based on the control signal.

[0076] The communication unit 150 can communicate with external devices ( Figure 6 3) to conduct wired and / or wireless communication. To this end, the communication unit 150 may include more than one communication module. For example, the communication unit 150 may include: a Wi-Fi communication module, an NFC communication module, a ZigBee communication module, a Bluetooth communication module, a TM )communication module, etc.

[0077] The external device 3 may include: a desktop computer and its corresponding fixed terminal, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a mobile phone and other portable terminals.

[0078] On the other hand, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include other common components in addition to the battery 110, the control unit 120, the first vaporizer 130, the second vaporizer 140, the communication unit 150, and the input unit 160. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (a puff sensing sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, a cigarette insertion sensing sensor, etc.). In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may be made into a structure that can introduce external air or exhaust internal gas even when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted.

[0079] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a first vaporizer, a second vaporizer, and an aerosol-generating article.

[0080] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 can generate a first aerosol and a second aerosol, respectively, by heating a liquid composition. The generated aerosols can be delivered to the user via the aerosol-generating article 2. In this case, the first vaporizer 130 generates smoke, giving the user a similar experience to that of a combustible cigarette, while the second vaporizer adjusts the amount of nicotine delivered from the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0081] Specifically, the first vaporizer 130 may include a first liquid storage portion 131 , a first liquid transfer unit 133 , and a first heater 135 . The second vaporizer 140 may include a second liquid storage portion 141 , a second liquid transfer unit 143 , and a second heater 145 .

[0082] The first liquid storage portion 131 can store a first liquid composition. The first liquid composition can be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. When the first liquid composition is heated, it can generate smoke. In other words, the first liquid composition can be a non-tobacco substance that can generate smoke, and the first aerosol generated when the first liquid composition is heated can be a smoke aerosol.

[0083] The first liquid composition may include a first humectant. In one embodiment, the first humectant may include vegetable glycerin (VG). In another embodiment, the first humectant may include vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol to improve the physical properties (fluidity) of the first liquid composition. In this case, the ratio of vegetable glycerin to propylene glycol may be 4:1 to 9:1.

[0084] In addition to the first moisturizing agent, the first liquid composition may further include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. However, the first liquid composition does not contain nicotine. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 1 can vaporize the first liquid composition with low power.

[0085] Flavoring agents may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruity aromas. Flavoring agents may include ingredients that can provide a variety of aromas or flavors to the user. Vitamin mixtures may include, but are not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E.

[0086] The second liquid storage portion 141 can store a second liquid composition. The second liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance containing volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The second liquid composition can be non-smoky even when heated. In other words, the second liquid composition can be a non-tobacco substance that does not generate smoke, and the second aerosol generated by the second liquid composition when heated can be a smokeless aerosol. The second aerosol can transport nicotine in the aerosol-generating article 2 to the exterior of the aerosol-generating article 2 while passing through the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0087] The second liquid composition may include a second moisturizing agent. In one embodiment, the second moisturizing agent may include only propylene glycol (PG). In another embodiment, the second moisturizing agent may also include ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, oleyl alcohol, etc. Furthermore, the second liquid composition may also include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures. However, the second liquid composition does not contain nicotine. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 1 can vaporize the second liquid composition with low power.

[0088] Flavoring agents may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruity aromas. Flavoring agents may include ingredients that can provide a variety of aromas or flavors to the user. Vitamin mixtures may include, but are not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E.

[0089] The first liquid transfer unit 133 may transfer the first liquid composition to the first heater 135. The second liquid transfer unit 143 may transfer the second liquid composition to the second heater 145. For example, the first liquid transfer unit 133 and the second liquid transfer unit 143 may be wicks such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but are not limited thereto.

[0090] The first heater 135 can heat the first liquid composition transferred by the first liquid transfer unit 133. The second heater 145 can heat the second liquid composition transferred by the second liquid transfer unit 143. For example, the first heater 135 and the second heater 145 can be a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but are not limited thereto. In addition, the first heater 135 and the second heater 145 can be composed of a conductive heating wire such as a nickel-chromium wire and arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer units 133 and 143. The first heater 135 and the second heater 145 can be heated by supplying electric current, transferring heat to the liquid composition in contact with the first heater 135 and the second heater 145 to heat the liquid composition. As a result, a first aerosol and / or a second aerosol can be generated. In addition, the first aerosol and / or the second aerosol can be transferred to the user via the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0091] On the other hand, the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 may be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but are not limited thereto.

[0092] The aerosol-generating article 2 is housed in the aerosol-generating device 1 and may be indirectly heated by the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 .

[0093] The aerosol-generating article 2 may be inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1 through the cavity 170. When the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1 through the cavity 170, the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article 2 may be arranged adjacent to the first heater 135 and the second heater 145.

[0094] The cavity 170 may include a first through-hole 171 in fluid communication with the first heater 135 and a second through-hole 173 in fluid communication with the second heater 145. The first through-hole 171 is arranged between the vertical centerline O1 of the first heater 135 and the vertical centerline O3 of the cavity 170, while the second through-hole 173 is arranged between the vertical centerline O2 of the second heater 145 and the vertical centerline O3 of the cavity 170 to increase heat transfer efficiency. In this case, the vertical direction may be the same as the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0095] The first heater 135 can heat the air in the cavity 170 while simultaneously heating the first liquid composition in the first liquid transfer unit 133. The second heater 145 can heat the air in the cavity 170 while simultaneously heating the second liquid composition in the second liquid transfer unit 143. The heated air in the cavity 170 can heat the aerosol-generating article 2. In other words, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be indirectly heated by the heating of the first heater 135 and / or the second heater 145 for generating the first aerosol and / or the second aerosol.

[0096] The first heater 135 and / or the second heater 145 can indirectly heat the aerosol-generating article 2 within a first temperature range. The first temperature range can be 150°C to 250°C. The first heater 135 and the second heater 145 can directly heat the first liquid composition and the second liquid composition, respectively, within a second temperature range higher than the first temperature range. The second temperature range can be 250°C to 300°C.

[0097] The control unit 120 may control the power supplied to the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 based on a first mode for generating a smokeless aerosol and a second mode for adjusting the delivery amount of nicotine in the aerosol-generating article 2 .

[0098] In the first mode, the control unit 120 may supply power only to the second vaporizer 140 to generate smokeless aerosol.

[0099] When power is supplied to the second vaporizer 140, a smokeless second aerosol can be generated. Furthermore, as the second vaporizer 140 is heated, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be indirectly heated. The second aerosol can be delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2. At this point, the second aerosol can deliver nicotine from the aerosol-generating article 2 to the user.

[0100] The first mode may include a plurality of sub-modes. The control portion 120 may supply power to the second vaporizer 140 in response to the sub-modes so that the second vaporizer 140 outputs power within a range of 50% to 100% of the maximum output.

[0101] The plurality of sub-modes may include a first sub-mode for generating a smoke-free aerosol with minimal power and a second sub-mode for maximizing the delivery amount of nicotine in the aerosol-generating article 2. According to an embodiment, the number of sub-modes may be increased.

[0102] In order for the second vaporizer 140 to generate a smokeless aerosol, the temperature of the second heater 145 must be higher than the vaporization temperature of the second liquid composition. Therefore, the minimum power can be set based on the vaporization temperature of the second liquid composition. In one embodiment, the minimum power may refer to the power consumed by the heating element of the second vaporizer 140 when it reaches the vaporization temperature of the second liquid composition. For example, if the second vaporizer 140 operates at 50% of its maximum output, the minimum power may be the same as the power consumed by the second vaporizer 140. In other words, the control unit 120 can supply power to the second vaporizer 140 in the first sub-mode so that the second vaporizer 140 operates at 50% of its maximum output.

[0103] On the other hand, since the amount of nicotine delivered from the aerosol-generating article 2 is proportional to the output of the second vaporizer 140, the second vaporizer 140 needs to operate at maximum output (100%) to maximize the amount of nicotine delivered from the aerosol-generating article 2. Therefore, the control unit 120 may supply power to the second vaporizer 140 in the second sub-mode to operate the second vaporizer 140 at maximum output (100%).

[0104] The second mode may also include a plurality of sub-modes. In response to the sub-modes, the control unit 120 may supply power to the first vaporizer 130 so that the output of the first vaporizer 130 is within a range of 80% to 100% of the maximum output, and supply power to the second vaporizer 140 so that the output of the second vaporizer 140 is within a range of 0% to 70% of the maximum output.

[0105] The plurality of sub-modes may include: a third sub-mode that maximizes the amount of atomization while minimizing the amount of nicotine delivered; and a fourth sub-mode that is a normal mode. According to an embodiment, the number of sub-modes may be increased.

[0106] The amount of atomization increases proportionally with the temperature of the first heater 135 in the first vaporizer 130. Therefore, to maximize the amount of atomization, the first vaporizer 130 must operate at maximum output (100%). Conversely, to minimize the amount of nicotine delivered, the second vaporizer 140 must operate at minimum output. Therefore, in the third sub-mode, the control unit 120 can supply power to the first vaporizer 130 to operate at maximum output (100%) and not supply power to the second vaporizer 140. Unlike the second sub-mode, in the third sub-mode, since the first vaporizer 130 generates the first aerosol, power is not supplied to the second vaporizer 140.

[0107] The fourth sub-mode may be a normal mode. The fourth sub-mode is a mode for delivering an appropriate amount of nicotine and achieving an appropriate amount of atomization. In the fourth sub-mode, the controller 120 may supply power to the first vaporizer 130 to operate at 80% of its maximum output, and supply power to the second vaporizer 140 to operate at 70% of its maximum output.

[0108] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the aerosol-generating article of the present invention.

[0109] Referring to the drawings, the aerosol generating article 2 may include a tobacco medium housing portion 210 and a filter portion 220. However, the aerosol generating article 2 of the present invention is indirectly heated by the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140, and therefore does not include a cooling portion to compensate for heat loss caused by indirect heating.

[0110] The tobacco medium housing portion 210 may have a cylindrical shape, and smoke and / or aerosol are generated from the tobacco medium, so that a user may inhale the generated smoke and / or aerosol through the filter portion 220 .

[0111] The tobacco medium container 210 may include a solid material based on tobacco raw materials such as tobacco flakes, shredded tobacco, or reconstituted tobacco. In one embodiment, the tobacco medium container 210 may be filled with wrinkled tobacco flakes. The tobacco flakes are essentially transversely curled, folded, compressed, or contracted on a cylindrical axis, thereby forming wrinkles. The porosity of the wrinkled tobacco flakes can be determined by adjusting the valley spacing, etc.

[0112] In another embodiment, the tobacco medium container 210 can be filled with tobacco shreds. The tobacco shreds can be formed by shredding tobacco sheets (or tobacco sheet slurry). Furthermore, the tobacco medium container 210 can be formed by combining or randomly combining multiple tobacco shreds in the same direction (parallel). Specifically, the tobacco medium container 210 can be composed of multiple tobacco shreds, thereby forming multiple longitudinal channels through which aerosol can pass. In this case, the various longitudinal channels may be uniform or uneven depending on the size or arrangement of the tobacco shreds.

[0113] The tobacco medium holding portion 210 may include a humectant that provides moisture in the aerosol. The humectant may include glycerol, propylene glycol, and water. Additionally, the humectant may also include at least one of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. Additionally, the tobacco medium holding portion 210 may also include nicotine.

[0114] The humectant in the tobacco medium containing portion 210 can maintain the moisture in the aerosol generated when the aerosol generating article 2 is heated at an appropriate level, thereby softening the inherent taste of tobacco and increasing the atomization amount.

[0115] In addition, the tobacco medium holding portion 210 may contain other additives such as flavorings and / or organic acids. For example, the flavorings may include licorice, sucrose, fructose syrup, isosweet, cocoa, lavender, cinnamon, cardamom, celery, fenugreek, bittersweet, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, peppermint oil, cassia bark, caraway, cognac, jasmine, chamomile, menthol, ylang-ylang, sage, spearmint, ginger, coriander, or coffee.

[0116] The filter unit 220 may include at least one of a tubular filter and an inline filter. The tubular filter has a hollow interior. The tubular filter and the inline filter may be made of cellulose-based materials (eg, paper, cellulose acetate, etc.).

[0117] Filter unit 220 may include at least one capsule 230. Capsule 230 may function as a fragrance generator or aerosol generator. For example, capsule 230 may have a structure in which a thin film encapsulates a liquid containing fragrance. Capsule 230 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0118] The aerosol-generating article 2 may be wrapped by at least one wrapping paper 240. The wrapping paper 240 may have at least one hole formed therein for allowing outside air to flow in or for internal gas to flow out. The aerosol-generating article 2 may also be wrapped by overlapping two or more wrapping papers.

[0119] The tobacco medium container 210 can be wrapped in a first wrapping paper 241, and the filter 220 can be wrapped in a second wrapping paper 242. Furthermore, the first wrapping paper 241 and the second wrapping paper 242 can be further wrapped in a third wrapping paper 243. In other words, the tobacco medium container 210 and the filter 220 can be further wrapped in the third wrapping paper 243.

[0120] The first wrapping paper 241 may be a thermally conductive wrapping paper to maximize the indirect heating effect of the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140. The thermally conductive wrapping paper surrounds the tobacco medium container 210 and can transfer heat generated in the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 to the tobacco medium container 210. For example, the first wrapping paper may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0121] The second wrapping paper 242 may be made of hard roll paper.

[0122] The interior of the third wrapping paper 243 may contain a prescribed substance. The prescribed substance may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon exhibits properties such as heat resistance with minimal temperature fluctuations, antioxidant properties that prevent oxidation, tolerance to various drugs, hydrophobicity, and electrical insulation. However, any substance other than silicon, as long as it possesses the aforementioned properties, may be applied (or coated) onto the third wrapping paper 243 without restriction. The third wrapping paper 243 can prevent the aerosol-generating article 2 from burning.

[0123] Furthermore, the third wrapping paper 243 can prevent the aerosol-generating device 1 from being contaminated by substances generated within the aerosol-generating article 2. When a user inhales, liquid substances may be generated within the aerosol-generating article 2. For example, the aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating article 2 may be cooled by the outside air, thereby forming liquid substances (e.g., moisture). The third wrapping paper 243 wrapping the tobacco medium container 210 and the filter portion 220 can prevent liquid substances generated within the aerosol-generating article 2 from leaking outside the aerosol-generating article 2. Thus, the interior of the aerosol-generating device 1 can be prevented from being contaminated by liquid substances generated within the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0124] Figure 4 It is a diagram for explaining a method of combining a first vaporizer and a second vaporizer and a method of forming a cavity according to an embodiment.

[0125] Referring to the drawings, a first vaporizer 130 and a second vaporizer 140 according to an embodiment may be detachably coupled to each other.

[0126] For example, one of the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer may include a hook, and the other vaporizer may include a slot, so that the vaporizers can be coupled to each other.

[0127] As another example, one of the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 may have a protrusion, and the other may have a groove corresponding to the protrusion, so that the vaporizers can be coupled to each other in an insertion coupling manner.

[0128] However, the combination of the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 of the present invention is not limited to the above example, as long as the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 can be detachably combined.

[0129] On the other hand, the cavity 170 for accommodating the aerosol-generating article 2 may be formed as the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 are combined.

[0130] The aerosol-generating device 1 of the present invention can operate in a first mode for generating a smokeless aerosol or a second mode for adjusting nicotine delivery. Therefore, the degree of depletion of the first liquid composition and the second liquid composition can vary depending on the user's usage pattern. The aerosol-generating device 1 of one embodiment has the advantage that only the depleted vaporizer can be replaced.

[0131] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining a method of combining a first vaporizer and a second vaporizer and a method of forming a cavity according to another embodiment.

[0132] Referring to the drawings, in another embodiment, the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 may be formed as one body. In this case, the first liquid storage portion 131 and the second liquid storage portion 141 may be separated by a partition wall 180 .

[0133] A cavity 170 for accommodating the aerosol-generating article 2 may be formed in the integrated first vaporizer 130 and second vaporizer 140 .

[0134] In the case where the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 are formed as one body, ease of manufacturing is increased.

[0135] Figure 6 This is a flowchart for explaining the method of operating the aerosol generating system of the present invention.

[0136] Referring to the drawings, in step S610, the external device 3 may send a remote control signal to the aerosol generating device 1 in a wireless or wired manner. The remote control signal may include mode selection information and power control information.

[0137] The communication unit 150 in the aerosol generating device 1 can receive remote control signals. To this end, the communication unit 150 can include more than one communication module. For example, the communication unit 150 can include: a Wi-Fi communication module, an NFC communication module, a ZigBee communication module, a Bluetooth communication module, a TM )communication module, etc.

[0138] In step S620, the control unit 120 may analyze the operation mode based on the remote control signal received by the communication unit 150. The control unit 120 may analyze the operation mode based on the mode selection information.

[0139] The operating modes of the present invention may include: a first mode for generating a smoke-free aerosol; and a second mode for adjusting the delivery amount of nicotine in the aerosol-generating article 2 .

[0140] In step S630, when the operation mode in the mode selection information is the first mode, the control unit 120 may supply power only to the second vaporizer 140. In other words, when the operation mode is the first mode, the control unit 120 may not supply power to the first vaporizer 130.

[0141] The second vaporizer 140 may contain a second liquid composition for generating a smokeless aerosol. In one embodiment, the second liquid composition may contain a second humectant, and the second humectant may contain only propylene glycol.

[0142] When power is supplied to the second vaporizer 140, a smokeless second aerosol can be generated. Furthermore, as the second vaporizer 140 is heated, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be indirectly heated. The second aerosol can be delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2. In this case, the second aerosol can deliver nicotine from the aerosol-generating article 2 to the user.

[0143] On the other hand, the first mode may include a plurality of sub-modes. The control portion 120 may supply power to the second vaporizer 140 in response to the sub-modes so that the output of the second vaporizer 140 is within a range of 50% to 100% of the maximum output.

[0144] In step S640 , when the operation mode in the mode selection information is not the first mode, the control unit 120 may analyze whether the operation mode is the second mode.

[0145] In step S650 , when the operation mode is the second mode, the control unit 120 may selectively supply power to the second vaporizer while supplying power to the first vaporizer 130 .

[0146] The first vaporizer 130 may contain a first liquid composition for generating a smoke aerosol. The first liquid composition may contain a first humectant. In one embodiment, the first humectant may contain only vegetable glycerin. In another embodiment, the first humectant may be a mixture of vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol in a specified ratio. For example, the ratio of vegetable glycerin to propylene glycol may be between 4:1 and 9:1. When the first humectant also contains propylene glycol, the physical properties (fluidity) of the first liquid composition may be improved.

[0147] When power is supplied to the first vaporizer 130, a first aerosol containing smoke may be generated. In addition, when power is supplied to the second vaporizer 140, a second aerosol without smoke may be generated.

[0148] The aerosol-generating article 2 may be indirectly heated by the first vaporizer 130 . Alternatively, the aerosol-generating article 2 may be indirectly heated by the first vaporizer 130 and the second vaporizer 140 .

[0149] The first aerosol and the second aerosol can be delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2. At this time, the first aerosol and the second aerosol can deliver nicotine in the aerosol-generating article 2 to the user.

[0150] On the other hand, the second mode may include a plurality of sub-modes. In response to the sub-modes, the control unit 120 may supply power to the first vaporizer 130 so that the output of the first vaporizer 130 is within a range of 80% to 100% of the maximum output, and supply power to the second vaporizer 140 so that the output of the second vaporizer 140 is within a range of 0% to 70% of the maximum output.

[0151] In step S660 , when the operation mode is neither the first mode nor the second mode, the control portion 120 may determine an error and request retransmission of the remote control signal.

[0152] The above method can be written as a program that can be executed in a computer, and can be implemented in a general-purpose digital computer that executes the program by utilizing a computer-readable recording medium. In addition, the structure of the data used in the above method can be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium in various ways. The computer-readable recording medium includes storage media such as magnetic storage media (e.g., ROM, RAM, USB, floppy disk, hard disk, etc.), optical readable media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, etc.), etc.

[0153] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that variations of the present invention are possible without departing from the essential characteristics described above. Therefore, the disclosed method should not be considered in a limiting sense, but rather in an illustrative sense. The scope of the present invention is defined not by the foregoing invention but by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope of equivalence thereof are to be construed as encompassed within the present invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating system, wherein: include: An aerosol generating device includes a first vaporizer, a second vaporizer, and a control unit, wherein the first vaporizer generates a first aerosol by heating a first liquid composition, the second vaporizer generates a second aerosol by heating a second liquid composition, and the control unit controls the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer. an aerosol-generating article housed in the aerosol-generating device and indirectly heated by heat generated in the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer; The control unit controls power supplied to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer based on a first mode for generating a smokeless aerosol and a second mode for adjusting a delivery amount of nicotine in the aerosol-generating article. the first vaporizer includes a first cavity portion, and the second vaporizer includes a second cavity portion, The first vaporizer and the second vaporizer are detachably coupled to each other. In a state where the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer are coupled to each other, the first cavity portion and the second cavity portion form a cavity into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted.

2. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein The first vaporizer includes a first liquid storage portion for storing the first liquid composition. The second vaporizer includes a second liquid storage portion for storing the second liquid composition. The first liquid storage section and the second liquid storage section are separated by a partition wall.

3. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein The first vaporizer and the second vaporizer are arranged such that at least one of the first aerosol and the second aerosol passes through the aerosol-generating article.

4. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein The first liquid composition comprises a first moisturizing agent, The first moisturizing agent is a mixture of vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol in a specified ratio.

5. An aerosol generating system according to claim 4, wherein The ratio of the vegetable glycerin to the propylene glycol in the first moisturizing agent is 4:1 to 9:

1.

6. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein The second liquid composition comprises a second moisturizing agent, The second humectant comprises only propylene glycol.

7. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein: The aerosol-generating article includes a tobacco medium-receiving portion and a filter portion.

8. An aerosol generating system according to claim 7, wherein The nicotine is contained in the tobacco medium containing portion.

9. An aerosol generating system according to claim 7, wherein: The aerosol-generating article further includes a thermally conductive wrapper that surrounds the tobacco medium housing and transfers heat generated in the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer to the tobacco medium housing.

10. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein The first vaporizer and the second vaporizer indirectly heat the aerosol-generating article by heating the cavity.

11. An aerosol generating system according to claim 10, wherein The first vaporizer and the second vaporizer indirectly heat the aerosol-generating article to a temperature between 150 degrees and 250 degrees.

12. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein In the first mode, the control portion supplies power only to the second vaporizer.

13. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein: In the second mode, the control unit selectively supplies power to the second vaporizer while supplying power to the first vaporizer.

14. An aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein The aerosol generating device further includes a communication unit for communicating with an external device. The communication unit receives a remote control signal from the external device, The control portion controls power supplied to the first vaporizer and the second vaporizer based on the remote control signal.

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