Aerosol-generating device comprising an electrode

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can be provided, the aerosol generating device including a heater, a housing including a receiving portion into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, an electrode disposed to be spaced apart from the aerosol generating article inserted into the receiving portion and positioned to correspond to at least one region of the aerosol generating article, and a processor electrically connected to the electrode. Various embodiments determined according to the application file are possible.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] One or more embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device including an electrode, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device in which a charge amount of the electrode is detected according to a change in permittivity of an aerosol generating article, so that various types of control can be performed. BACKGROUND

[0002] Recently, the demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of general cigarettes has increased. For example, the demand for a method of generating an aerosol using a non-combustion method by heating an aerosol generating material in a cigarette is increasing. Accordingly, research on a heating-type cigarette or a heating-type aerosol generating device is actively ongoing. SUMMARY

[0003] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0004] One or more embodiments of the disclosure provide an aerosol generating device in which a charge amount of an electrode is detected according to a change in permittivity of an aerosol generating article, so that various types of control can be performed.

[0005] The technical objects to be achieved by the disclosure are not limited to the above described objects, and others not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description and drawings.

[0006] SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0007] According to an aspect of the disclosure, an aerosol generating device includes a heater, a housing including an accommodation portion into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, an electrode separated from the aerosol generating article inserted into the accommodation portion and positioned to correspond to at least a portion of the aerosol generating article, and a processor electrically connected to the heater and the electrode.

[0008] ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0009] According to one or more embodiments of the disclosure, whether an aerosol generating article is inserted can be detected regardless of a type of a packaging material for packaging at least a portion of the aerosol generating article.

[0010] According to one or more embodiments of the disclosure, since one electrode measures a change in a charge amount caused by insertion of an aerosol generating article, the design of other components can be simplified.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, since the amount of aerosol generation is directly detected through the dielectric constant of the aerosol, the accuracy of data regarding the aerosol generation amount and the user's puff operation can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] Figures 1 to 3 FIG. 1 is a view showing an example in which an aerosol generating article is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0013] Figure 4 and Figure 5 FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of an aerosol generating article.

[0014] Figure 6a FIG. 3 is a view schematically showing a relationship between an electrode and an aerosol generating article according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6b FIG. 4 is a view showing an example of a position of an electrode of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7a FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a housing of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7b FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the housing of the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, taken along line A-A'.

[0018] Figure 8a FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a housing of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8b FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the housing of the aerosol generating device according to another embodiment, taken along line A-A'.

[0020] Figure 9a FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a housing of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0021] Figure 9b FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the housing of the aerosol generating device according to another embodiment, taken along line A-A'.

[0022] Figure 10 FIG. 11 is a view showing an example of a position of an electrode of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0023] Figure 11a FIG. 12 is a view showing an example of a position of an electrode of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11b FIG. 13 is a view showing an example of a position of an electrode with respect to a heater according to another embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12a This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0026] Figure 12b This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0027] Figure 13a This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0028] Figure 13b This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0029] Figure 14 yes Figure 13a and Figure 13b The circuit diagram of the electrodes.

[0030] Figure 15 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 16a and Figure 16b This is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for determining the type of aerosol-generated article by using electrodes of an aerosol-generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating a method for detecting changes in the charging time of electrodes by a processor according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating a method for detecting changes in the charging time of electrodes according to another embodiment of a processor.

[0034] Figure 19a This is a diagram illustrating the charging time of the electrodes in the aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 19b It is used to describe Figure 19a A graph showing the discharge time of the electrodes.

[0036] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of detecting the insertion of an aerosol-generating article by the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 21 This is a graph showing the changes in charging time of the electrodes when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 22a The image shows the state of the aerosol-generating article before it is inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 22b The state of the aerosol-generating article after it has been inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus according to the embodiment is shown.

[0040] Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating how the aerosol generating apparatus, according to an embodiment, detects a user's suction operation.

[0041] Figure 24 This is a graph showing the change in charging time of the electrodes when the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment detects a user's suction operation.

[0042] Figure 25a The state of the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment before detecting the user's inhalation operation is shown.

[0043] Figure 25b The state of the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment after detecting a user's inhalation operation is shown.

[0044] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the power supplied to the heater by the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0045] Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating the control of the power supplied to the heater based on the charging time of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0046] Figure 28 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0047] Figure 29 This is a graph showing the charging time of the electrode according to the user's smoking pattern, based on an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 30 This is a graph showing the charging time of the electrode according to another embodiment, which varies according to the user's smoking pattern.

[0049] Figure 31 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of detecting the removal of aerosol-generated articles by the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 32 This is a graph showing the change in charging time of the electrodes as the aerosol-generating article is removed from the aerosol-generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 33aThe state of the aerosol-generated article before it is removed from the aerosol-generating apparatus according to the embodiment is shown.

[0052] Figure 33b The state of the aerosol-generated article after it has been removed from the aerosol-generating apparatus according to the embodiment is shown.

[0053] Figure 34 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Regarding the terminology used to describe various embodiments, generally used terms are selected in consideration of the function of the structural elements in the various embodiments of this disclosure. However, the meanings of these terms may change depending on intent, judicial precedent, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in some cases, less commonly used terms may be selected. In such cases, the meaning of the term will be described in detail in the corresponding section of the description of this disclosure. Therefore, the terminology used in the various embodiments of this disclosure should be defined based on the meanings and descriptions of the terms provided herein.

[0055] Furthermore, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the term "comprising" and variations such as "including" or "including" will be understood to mean that the stated element is included but not excluding any other element. Additionally, the terms "device," "component," and "module" described in the application refer to a unit for performing at least one function and operation, and can be implemented by hardware components or software components and combinations thereof.

[0056] In this application, an aerosol generating device can be a device that generates aerosols by using an aerosol generating substance to produce aerosols that can be directly inhaled into the lungs of a user through their mouth. For example, the aerosol generating device can be a retainer.

[0057] In this application, "inhalation" means the inhalation of a user, and inhalation can refer to the action of drawing air into the user's mouth, nasal cavity, or lungs through the user's mouth or nose.

[0058] In the following description, the present disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, enabling those skilled in the art to readily implement the disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0059] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] Figures 1 to 3 This is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol-generating article being inserted into an aerosol-generating device.

[0061] Reference Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 1 may include a battery 11, a controller 12, and a heater 13. (See reference...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a vaporizer 14. Furthermore, the aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0062] Figures 1 to 3 The components of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 related to this embodiment are shown. Therefore, those skilled in the art who are familiar with this embodiment will understand that, in addition to… Figures 1 to 3 In addition to the components shown, other general-purpose components may also be included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0063] also, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 shown includes a heater 13. However, the heater 13 can be omitted if necessary.

[0064] Figure 1 The battery 11, controller 12, and heater 13 are shown arranged in series. Furthermore, Figure 2 The battery 11, controller 12, carburetor 14, and heater 13 are shown arranged in a series. Furthermore, Figure 3 The vaporizer 14 and heater 13 are shown arranged in a parallel manner. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to... Figures 1 to 3 The structure shown is shown in the figure. In other words, according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1, the battery 11, controller 12, heater 13 and vaporizer 14 can be arranged in a different manner.

[0065] When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 can operate the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 to generate aerosols from the aerosol generating article 2 and / or the vaporizer 14. The aerosols generated by the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 are delivered to the user through the aerosol generating article 2.

[0066] As needed, the aerosol generating device 1 can heat the heater 13 even when the aerosol generating article 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1.

[0067] Battery 11 can supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 1. For example, battery 11 can supply power to heat heater 13 or vaporizer 14, and can supply power to operate controller 12. In addition, battery 11 can supply power to operate displays, sensors, motors, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0068] The controller 12 can provide overall control over the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the controller 12 can control not only the operation of the battery 11, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, but also the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, the controller 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is operational.

[0069] The controller 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable in the microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will understand that the processor may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0070] The heater 13 can be heated by electricity supplied from the battery 11. For example, when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1, the heater 13 can be located outside the aerosol generating article 2. Therefore, the heated heater 13 can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the aerosol generating article 2.

[0071] Heater 13 may include a resistance heater. For example, heater 13 may include a conductive trace, and heater 13 may be heated when current flows through the conductive trace. However, heater 13 is not limited to the above example and may include any heater that can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in aerosol generating apparatus 1 or may be set by the user.

[0072] As another example, heater 13 may include an induction heater. Specifically, heater 13 may include a conductive coil for heating the aerosol-generating article by an induction heating method, and the aerosol-generating article may include a base that can be heated by the induction heater.

[0073] For example, heater 13 may include tubular heating elements, plate heating elements, needle heating elements or rod heating elements, and may heat the interior or exterior of aerosol generating article 2 according to the shape of the heating element.

[0074] Furthermore, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a plurality of heaters 13. Here, the plurality of heaters 13 may be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2 or may be arranged outside the aerosol generating article 2. Additionally, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2, and others may be arranged outside the aerosol generating article 2. Furthermore, the shape of the heaters 13 is not limited to... Figures 1 to 3 The shapes shown are not limited to those shown in the original text, but can include a variety of shapes.

[0075] The vaporizer 14 can generate an aerosol by heating the liquid composition, and the generated aerosol can pass through the aerosol generating article 2 to be delivered to the user. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can move along the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow channel can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 passes through the aerosol generating article 2 to be delivered to the user.

[0076] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer element, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer element, and the heating element may be included as independent modules in the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0077] The liquid storage section can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing tobacco substances having volatile tobacco aroma components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage section can be detachable from the vaporizer 14, or it can be integrally formed with the vaporizer 14.

[0078] For example, the liquid composition may include water, solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures. Fragrances may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, and various fruity flavorings. Flavorings may include ingredients capable of providing the user with a variety of fragrances or flavors. Vitamin mixtures may be, but are not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E. Furthermore, the liquid composition may include aerosol-forming substances such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0079] A liquid delivery element can deliver a liquid composition from a liquid storage section to a heating element. For example, the liquid delivery element can be a core, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but is not limited to these.

[0080] A heating element is a component used to heat a liquid composition conveyed by a liquid conveying element. For example, a heating element can be a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited to these. Additionally, the heating element may include a conductive wire, such as a nickel-chromium alloy wire, and can be positioned to wrap around the liquid conveying element. The heating element can be heated by an electric current supply, and heat can be transferred to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0081] For example, the vaporizer 14 may be referred to as a cartomizer or atomizer, but is not limited to these terms.

[0082] In addition to the battery 11, controller 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include common components. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (suction sensor, temperature detection sensor, aerosol generating article insertion detection sensor, etc.). Moreover, the aerosol generating device 1 may be configured such that even when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, this structure can either introduce external air or expel internal air.

[0083] Despite Figures 1 to 3 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 and the additional bracket can form a system together. For example, the bracket can be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, when the bracket and the aerosol generating device 1 are connected to each other, the heater 13 can be heated.

[0084] The aerosol generating article 2 can be similar to a conventional combustible cigarette. For example, the aerosol generating article 2 can be divided into a first part including an aerosol generating substance and a second part including a filter, etc. Alternatively, the second part of the aerosol generating article 2 may also include the aerosol generating substance. For example, the aerosol generating substance made in the form of granules or capsules can be inserted into the second part.

[0085] The entire first part can be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, and the second part can be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part can be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or the entire first part and a portion of the second part can be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. In this case, the aerosol is generated by the outside air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is delivered to the user's mouth.

[0086] For example, outside air can flow into at least one air channel formed in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, a user can adjust the opening and closing of the air channel formed in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the size of the air channel. Therefore, the amount of smoke and the smoking experience can be adjusted by the user. As another example, outside air can flow into the aerosol generating article 2 through at least one hole formed in the surface of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0087] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 4 and Figure 5 An example describing aerosol-generated article 2.

[0088] Figure 4 and Figure 5 An example of an aerosol-generated article is shown.

[0089] Reference Figure 4 The aerosol-generating article 2 may include a tobacco stick 21 and a filter stick 22. (See above for reference.) Figures 1 to 3 The first part of the description may include a tobacco stick 21, and the second part may include a filter stick 22.

[0090] Figure 4 The filter rod 22 is shown to include a single segment. However, the filter rod 22 is not limited to this. In other words, the filter rod 22 may include multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a first segment configured to cool the aerosol and a second segment configured to filter specific components included in the aerosol. Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may also include at least one segment configured to perform other functions, as needed.

[0091] The aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged using at least one package 24. The package 24 may have at least one opening through which external air can be introduced or internal air can be exhausted. For example, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged using a single package 24. As another example, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be double-packaged using two or more packages 24. For example, a tobacco stick 21 can be packaged using a first package 241, and a filter stick 22 can be packaged using packages 242, 243, and 244. Furthermore, the entire aerosol-generating article 2 can be repackaged using another single package 245. When the filter stick 22 comprises multiple segments, each segment can be packaged using packages 242, 243, and 244.

[0092] The tobacco stick 21 may include aerosol-generating substances. For example, the aerosol-generating substances may include, but are not limited to, at least one of glycerol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. Furthermore, the tobacco stick 21 may include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Additionally, the tobacco stick 21 may include flavoring liquids, such as menthol or humectants, infused into the tobacco stick 21.

[0093] The tobacco stick 21 can be manufactured in various forms. For example, the tobacco stick 21 can be formed as a sheet or shreds. Furthermore, the tobacco stick 21 can be formed from small scraps cut from a tobacco sheet. Additionally, the tobacco stick 21 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be, but is not limited to, metal foil, such as aluminum foil. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco stick 21 can make the heat transferred to the tobacco stick 21 more uniformly distributed, and therefore, can increase the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco stick and can improve the flavor of the tobacco. Furthermore, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco stick 21 can serve as a base that is heated by an induction heater. Here, although not shown in the figures, the tobacco stick 21 may include an additional base in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding it.

[0094] Filter rod 22 may include a cellulose acetate filter. The shape of filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, filter rod 22 may include a cylindrical or tubular rod with a hollow interior. Furthermore, filter rod 22 may include a recessed rod. When filter rod 22 comprises multiple segments, at least one of the segments may have a different shape.

[0095] Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may generate a fragrance or aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a configuration in which the liquid containing the fragrance substance is encapsulated by a membrane. For example, the capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0096] Reference Figure 5 The aerosol generating article 3 may also include a front plug 33. The front plug 33 may be located on the side of the tobacco stick 31 opposite to the filter rod 32. During smoking, the front plug 33 prevents the tobacco stick 31 from detaching outwards and prevents liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco stick 31 into the aerosol generating device. Figures 1 to 3 1).

[0097] The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 may correspond to... Figure 4 The first segment of filter rod 22, and the second segment 322 can correspond to Figure 4 The second section of filter rod 22.

[0098] The diameter and total length of the aerosol-generated product 3 can correspond to Figure 4 The diameter and total length of the aerosol-generating article 2. For example, the length of the front plug 33 is about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco stick 31 is about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is about 14 mm, but not limited thereto.

[0099] The aerosol-generating article 3 can be packaged using at least one packaging unit 35. The packaging unit 35 may have at least one opening through which external air can be introduced or internal air can be expelled. For example, the tip plug 33 may be packaged in a first packaging unit 351, the tobacco stick 31 in a second packaging unit 352, the first segment 321 in a third packaging unit 353, and the second segment 322 in a fourth packaging unit 354. Furthermore, the entire aerosol-generating article 3 can be repackaged in a fifth packaging unit 355.

[0100] Additionally, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth package 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the area surrounding the tobacco stick 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 can be used to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The heat generated by the heater 13 shown is transferred to the interior of the tobacco stick 31.

[0101] Additionally, the second paragraph 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, capsule 34 may generate a flavoring agent or an aerosol. For example, capsule 23 may have a configuration in which a liquid containing a flavoring substance is encapsulated by a membrane. For example, capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0102] Figure 6a This is a diagram schematically illustrating the relationship between the electrode and the aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment.

[0103] Reference Figure 6aThe aerosol generating apparatus 600 may include an electrode 620 and a processor 640. In one embodiment, the processor 640 may perform the following functions: detecting whether the aerosol generating article 605 is inserted into or removed from the aerosol generating apparatus 600 based on the charging or discharging time of the electrode 620; detecting a user's suction operation; and controlling the power supplied to the heater according to the amount of aerosol generated. For example, the processor 640 may apply a specific voltage to the electrode 620 and measure the charging time of the electrode 620. The processor 640 may perform various functions based on the measured charging time of the electrode 620 or based on changes in the measured charging time of the electrode 620. In another example, the processor 640 may measure the discharge time of the electrode 620 when the electrode 620 is naturally discharging. In other words, when the charging voltage of electrode 620 is the same as the applied voltage, processor 640 can measure the discharge time of electrode 620 and can perform various functions based on the measured discharge time of electrode 620 or based on the change in discharge time.

[0104] In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating article 605 is inserted into a portion (e.g., a receiving portion) of the aerosol generating apparatus 600, the electrode 620 may be separated from the inserted aerosol generating article 605 by a specific distance. For example, the specific distance may refer to a distance at which a change in the charging or discharging time of the electrode 620 due to the aerosol generating article 605 can be detected. In another embodiment, the electrode 620 may be positioned to correspond to at least a portion of the inserted aerosol generating article 605. For example, the electrode 620 may be positioned to at least partially correspond to the region where the aerosol generating material of the aerosol generating article 605 is located.

[0105] Figure 6b This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0106] Reference Figure 6b The aerosol generating apparatus 600 may include a housing 610, an electrode 620, and a heater 650. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 600 may include a receiving portion into which the aerosol generating article 605 can be inserted. For example, the housing 610 may have the shape of a cylindrical member including an outer peripheral surface and an inner peripheral surface. In this case, the receiving portion may refer to the space surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the housing 610 or the area corresponding to the inner peripheral surface of the housing 610. However, the shape of the housing 610 is not limited to this and can be modified in various ways according to the manufacturer's design.

[0107] In one embodiment, the electrode 620 may be separated from the inner peripheral surface of the housing 610 in a direction perpendicular to the outer peripheral surface of the housing 610. For example, the housing 610 may extend in a first direction (e.g., the +y direction), and the electrode 620 may be separated from the inner peripheral surface of the housing 610 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., the +x direction). Furthermore, since the electrode 620 is separated from the inner peripheral surface of the housing 610 by a specific distance x, the electrode 620 may be embedded between the inner peripheral surface and the outer peripheral surface of the housing 610.

[0108] Because the electrode 620 is disposed inside the housing 610, noise in the data measured by the processor via the electrode 620 can be reduced. If the electrode 620 were disposed to be exposed to the outside and in contact with the aerosol generating article 605, the electrode 620 could be affected in the data measurement due to external materials (e.g., tobacco leaves, dust, etc.). In contrast, the electrode 620 according to this disclosure can be embedded in the housing 610, or can be concealed from the outside by an additional protective layer, so that contamination due to external materials does not occur, and therefore noise in the data measurement can be reduced.

[0109] In an embodiment, electrode 620 may be configured to at least partially correspond to the region where aerosol generating material 630 is disposed. For example, the position of electrode 620 may correspond to the region where aerosol generating material 630 is disposed when aerosol generating article 605 is fully inserted into the receiving portion of aerosol generating apparatus 600.

[0110] In this embodiment, heater 650 may correspond to an internal heating type heater. However, the type of heater 650 is not limited to this. Reference will be made below. Figures 11a to 13b The shape of the heater according to various embodiments of this disclosure is described.

[0111] Figure 7a This is a perspective view of the housing of the aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiment. Figure 7b This is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of the housing of the aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiment. Figure 7a and Figure 7b This can correspond to a specific example of the electrode 620 included in the aerosol generating apparatus 600 of FIG6.

[0112] In one embodiment, electrode 720 may have the shape of a plate without curvature. In another embodiment, electrode 720 may be separated from receiving portion 715 by a specific distance. In this case, because electrode 720 has the shape of a plate without curvature, the central portion of electrode 720 may be separated from receiving portion 715 by a distance x, and the end portions of electrode 720 may be separated from receiving portion 715 by a distance greater than x. To minimize the difference between the distance between receiving portion 715 and the central portion of electrode 720 and the distance between receiving portion 715 and the end portions of electrode 720, the width of electrode 720 may be very small.

[0113] Figure 8a This is a perspective view of the housing of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 8b This is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of the housing of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 9a This is a perspective view of the housing of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 9b This is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of the housing of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 9a and Figure 9b This can correspond to a specific example of the electrode 620 included in the aerosol generating apparatus 600 of Figure 6.

[0114] In an embodiment, electrodes 820 and 920 may have a plate shape with a specific curvature. For example, the curvature of electrodes 820 and 920 may be less than the curvature of the inner peripheral surfaces of housings 810 and 910 and greater than the curvature of the outer peripheral surfaces of housings 810 and 910. When electrodes 820 and 920 have a plate shape with curvature, all portions of electrodes 820 and 920 (e.g., central portions, end portions, etc.) may be separated from receiving portions 815 and 915 by a specific distance.

[0115] In an embodiment, electrodes 820 and 920 may be configured to be separated from the receiving portions 815 and 915 by a specific distance x and to surround at least a portion of the receiving portions 815 and 915. For example, electrode 820 may be configured to surround only a region corresponding to a portion (e.g., 25%) of the circumference of the receiving portion 815. In another example, electrode 920 may be configured to surround a region corresponding to a portion (e.g., 90%) of the circumference of the receiving portion 915. However, the region surrounded by electrode 620 is not limited thereto.

[0116] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0117] Reference Figure 10The aerosol generating apparatus 1000 may include a housing 1010 and an electrode 1020. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1000 may include a receiving portion into which the aerosol generating article 1005 can be inserted. For example, the housing 1010 may have a cylindrical shape including an outer peripheral surface and an inner peripheral surface. However, the shape of the housing 1010 is not limited to this and can be modified in various ways according to the manufacturer's design.

[0118] In one embodiment, the electrode 1020 may contact a region of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1010. In this case, an additional protective layer 1040 may be disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1010. The protective layer 1040 may be formed to have a specific thickness x, and the electrode 1020 may be separated from the inner peripheral surface of the protective layer 1040 by a specific distance x.

[0119] The protective layer 1040 may be formed of a different material, color, or pattern than the housing 1010. For example, the protective layer 1040 may refer to a coating, oxide layer, etc., formed to not react with the aerosol generating article 1005 or the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article 1005.

[0120] In an embodiment, electrode 1020 may be configured to at least partially correspond to the region where aerosol generating material 1030 is disposed. For example, the position of electrode 1020 may correspond to the region where aerosol generating material 1030 is disposed when aerosol generating article 1005 is fully inserted into the receiving portion of aerosol generating apparatus 1000.

[0121] Figure 11a This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 11b This is a diagram illustrating an example of the position of the electrode relative to the heater according to another embodiment. Figure 11a and Figure 11b This can correspond to a specific example of the heater 650 included in the aerosol generating apparatus 600 of Figure 6.

[0122] Reference Figure 11a and Figure 11b The aerosol generating apparatus 1100 may include a housing 1110, an electrode 1120, and a heater 1150. In one embodiment, the heater 1150 may correspond to a film heater comprising a pattern arranged at regular intervals. For example, the heater 1150 may include a heating pattern 1140 and an electrode 1120. The heating pattern 1140 may be printed on the heater 1150 having a film (e.g., a polyimide film) shape. The electrode 1120 may be attached to at least a portion of the heater 1150.

[0123] In an embodiment, electrode 1120 may be arranged such that electrode 1120 does not overlap with heating pattern 1140 of heater 1150. For example, electrode 1120 may be arranged in at least one of region A (e.g., the outer portion of the heating pattern) and region B (the inner portion of the heating pattern).

[0124] Figure 12a This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 12b This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 12a and Figure 12b This can correspond to a specific example of the heater 650 included in the aerosol generating apparatus 600 of Figure 6.

[0125] Reference Figure 12a and Figure 12b The aerosol generating device 1200 may include a housing 1210, an electrode 1220, and a heater.

[0126] In an embodiment, the heater may include an internal heating type heater 1230 and an induction coil 1240. For example, the induction coil 1240 may induce a variable magnetic field to heat the internal heating type heater 1230 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1200. In this case, the internal heating type heater 1230 may correspond to an example of a base.

[0127] In another embodiment, the heater may also include only an induction coil 1240. For example, the induction coil 1240 may induce a variable magnetic field to heat the base 1250 included in the intermediate region of the aerosol-generating article 1205.

[0128] In one embodiment, electrode 1220 may be disposed between the inner peripheral surface of housing 1210 and induction coil 1240. In another embodiment, electrode 1220 may be configured not to affect the variable magnetic field generated from induction coil 1240. For example, to prevent a decrease in the strength of the variable magnetic field generated by induction coil 1240, the width of electrode 1220 may be very small.

[0129] Figure 13a This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 13b This is a diagram showing an example of the position of the electrodes in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. Figure 13a and Figure 13b This can correspond to a specific example of the electrode 620 and heater 650 included in the aerosol generating apparatus 600 of FIG. 6.

[0130] Reference Figure 13a andFigure 13b The aerosol generating device 1300 may include a housing 1310 and a heater.

[0131] In an embodiment, the heater may include an internal heating type heater 1330 and an induction coil 1340. For example, the induction coil 1340 may sense a variable magnetic field to heat the internal heating type heater 1330 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1300.

[0132] In another embodiment, the heater may also include only an induction coil 1340. For example, the induction coil 1340 may induce a variable magnetic field to heat the base 1350 included in the intermediate region of the aerosol generating article 1305.

[0133] In an embodiment, the electrode (e.g., electrode 620 in FIG. 6) can be integrally formed with the induction coil 1340. That is, the induction coil 1340 can heat the object to be heated (e.g., an internal heating type heater or base) by inducing a variable magnetic field to perform the sensing function of the electrode. The following will refer to... Figure 15 A detailed description of the sensing function of the electrodes is provided.

[0134] Figure 14 yes Figure 13a and Figure 13b The circuit diagram of the electrodes.

[0135] Reference Figure 14 processor (e.g., Figure 13a and Figure 13b The processor may include an induction heating controller 1400 and a sensor controller 1410. In one embodiment, the induction heating controller 1400 can sense a variable magnetic field through an induction coil to heat an object (e.g., an internal heating type heater 1330 or a base 1350). In another embodiment, the sensor controller 1410 can apply power to the induction coil to detect changes in the charging time of the induction coil and perform sensing operations.

[0136] In this embodiment, the induction coil can be selectively controlled by either the induction heating controller 1400 or the sensor controller 1410.

[0137] In this implementation, the induction coil can perform the heating operation via the induction heating controller 1400. In this case, the connection between the sensor controller 1410 and the induction coil can be disconnected. For example, when the induction heating controller 1400 senses a variable magnetic field through the induction coil to perform the heating operation, switches A and C can be switched to the ON state, and switches B and D can be switched to the OFF state.

[0138] In this embodiment, power can be applied to the induction coil via the sensor controller 1410, and the induction coil can perform a sensing operation. For example, the sensing operation may include at least one of the following sensing methods: sensing aerosol-generating articles (e.g., Figure 6a The sensor controller 1400 senses whether the aerosol generating article 605 is inserted or removed, senses the amount of atomization generated by the aerosol generating article 605, and senses the user's inhalation. In this case, the connection between the induction heating controller 1400 and the induction coil can be disconnected. For example, when the sensor controller 1410 performs a sensing operation based on the change in the charging time of the induction coil, switches A and C can be switched to the off state, and switches B and D can be switched to the on state. In this case, when the induction coil performs a sensing operation through the sensor controller 1410, one end of the circuit can be disconnected to serve as a ground GND terminal. When switch C is switched to the off state, one end of the induction coil can be disconnected to serve as a ground GND terminal.

[0139] Figure 14 The diagram shows the sensor controller 1410 and the induction coil connected to each other via two lines. However, the implementation is not limited to this. In another embodiment, the sensor controller 1410 and the induction coil may also be connected via a single line including switch B.

[0140] Figure 15 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0141] Reference Figure 15 The aerosol generating device 1500 may include an electrode 1510, a battery 1520, a processor 1530, and a heater 1540.

[0142] In electrode 1510, the amount of charge can change when a change occurs caused by the aerosol-generating article. For example, changes caused by the aerosol-generating article can include: insertion and removal of the aerosol-generating article; aerosol generation caused by the aerosol-generating article; and aerosol removal caused by the user's inhalation.

[0143] In this embodiment, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1500 and positioned close to the electrode 1510, the charge amount of the electrode 1510 can be changed according to the dielectric constant ε of the components included in the aerosol generating article. The dielectric constant, as a characteristic value representing the electrical properties of a non-conductor, can refer to the degree of polarization relative to an external electric field. In this case, the charge amount of the electrode 1510 can be changed even when the inserted aerosol generating article is removed.

[0144] For example, the aerosol-generating article can be a cigarette. In this case, the cigarette may include packaging materials (e.g., outer packaging, inner packaging, etc.) containing a specific amount of moisture or hygroscopic moisture, and may also include solid smokeable materials (e.g., tobacco leaves, granular tobacco materials, etc.) contained in the middle portion. In this case, since the dielectric constant of moisture (H2O) is about 80 times that of air, the electrode 1510 may be affected by the insertion of the cigarette even if the packaging materials and smokeable materials contain a small amount of moisture.

[0145] As another example, when the aerosol-generating article is a cartridge containing a liquid inhalable material, the electrode 1510 may be affected by the insertion of the cartridge because the liquid has a high dielectric constant.

[0146] In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1500, the aerosol generating article is positioned close to the electrode 1510, and therefore the charge on the electrode 1510 may decrease. In another embodiment, when the aerosol generating article is removed from the aerosol generating apparatus 1500 and moves away from the electrode 1510, the charge on the electrode 1510 may increase.

[0147] In this embodiment, the processor 1530 can determine whether the aerosol-generating article is inserted or removed by using the dielectric constant of the components included in the aerosol-generating article. Therefore, the material of the aerosol-generating article can be varied. In prior art aerosol-generating apparatuses, insertion of the aerosol-generating article is determined by the packaging paper of the aerosol-generating article or aluminum foil included in the packaging paper. However, the aerosol-generating apparatus according to the present invention can detect insertion or removal of the aerosol-generating article even when aluminum foil is not included in the aerosol-generating article. Therefore, the material of the packaging paper can be varied.

[0148] In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating article is heated, an aerosol is generated, and the charge on the electrode 1510 can be changed according to the dielectric constant of the aerosol.

[0149] For example, when the aerosol-generating article is heated by heater 1540, an aerosol with uniform moisture content can be generated. In this case, since the dielectric constant of the aerosol is about 80 times that of air, electrode 1510 may be affected by the aerosol.

[0150] In one embodiment, the charge on electrode 1510 may decrease when an aerosol-generating article is heated to generate an aerosol. In another embodiment, the charge on electrode 1510 may increase when the aerosol generated when the aerosol-generating article is heated is removed by suction from the user.

[0151] In one embodiment, the processor 1530 can determine the amount of aerosol generated and the user's inhalation by using the dielectric constant of the aerosol generated when the aerosol-generating article is heated. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 1500 can provide a uniform amount of atomization and can detect the user's inhalation without the need for an additional sensor module (e.g., an inhalation detection sensor).

[0152] Battery 1520 can supply the power required to operate aerosol generating apparatus 1500. For example, battery 1520 can supply power so that processor 1530 can detect changes in the amount of charge in electrode 1510. Furthermore, battery 1520 can supply the power required to operate other hardware components included in aerosol generating apparatus 1500, such as various sensors (not shown), user interface (not shown), and memory (not shown). Battery 1520 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, battery 1520 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery. However, the implementation is not limited to this.

[0153] The processor 1530 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1500. For example, the processor 1530 can control the operation of components included in the aerosol generating device 1500 other than the battery 1520. In addition, the processor 1530 can check each component of the aerosol generating device 1500 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1500 is in an operable state.

[0154] In one embodiment, the processor 1530 can detect changes caused by the aerosol-generated article based on the voltage of the electrode 1510. For example, the processor 1530 can detect changes based on the output voltage V of the electrode 1510. out and input voltage V in The processor 1530 can detect changes caused by aerosol generation by determining the change in the charging time of electrode 1510. The method for checking the voltage of electrode 1510 using processor 1530 will be described below. Figure 17 and Figure 18 Provide a detailed description.

[0155] Figure 16a and Figure 16b This is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for determining the type of aerosol-generated article by using electrodes of an aerosol-generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 16a and Figure 16b The aerosol generating device 1600 can correspond to Figure 15 1500 aerosol generating device.

[0156] Reference Figure 16a and Figure 16bDifferent types of aerosol generating articles can be inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1600 through the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1610. For example, the first aerosol generating article 1650 may have a larger area including tobacco material than the second aerosol generating article 1660. In this case, the tobacco material may include at least one of solid tobacco material and liquid tobacco material, and may be in the form of granules, capsules, etc.

[0157] In one embodiment, when the aerosol-generating article is inserted, the processor 1630 can determine the type of the aerosol-generating article via the electrode 1620.

[0158] For example, depending on the tobacco material, the first aerosol generating article 1650 may include more moisture than the second aerosol generating article 1660. When the aerosol generating article is inserted, if the amount of charge on the electrode 1620 decreases more significantly, the processor 1630 can determine that the first aerosol generating article 1650 has been inserted. The processor 1630 may store the amount of charge reduction on the electrode 1620, depending on the type of aerosol generating article, in a memory (not shown).

[0159] However, this is merely an example, and depending on the tobacco material, the second aerosol-generating article 1660 may include more moisture than the first aerosol-generating article 1650, depending on the component ratio of the tobacco material included in the first aerosol-generating article 1650 and the second aerosol-generating article 1660.

[0160] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating a method for detecting changes in the charging time of electrodes by a processor according to an embodiment.

[0161] Reference Figure 17 processor (e.g., Figure 16a and Figure 16b The processor 1630 can be connected to the electrodes (e.g., via a line) Figure 16a and Figure 16b Electrode 1620). In an embodiment, processor 1630 can apply an output voltage to electrode 1620 at specific cycles to charge electrode 1620. In this case, the output voltage can be regulated by using a pulse width modulation (PWM) method. For example, processor 1630 can apply an output voltage to electrode 1620 every 50ms to charge electrode 1620.

[0162] In one implementation, the processor 1630 can detect the input voltage input from the electrode 1620 after applying the output voltage a predetermined number of times (e.g., twice) to the electrode 1620. For example, the output voltage value can be in the range of about 2.8V to about 3.3V. In another example, the output voltage value can be about 5V. In this case, the input voltage input from the electrode 1620 is maintained at a reference voltage V. ref At times, such as Figure 17 As shown in (a), it can be determined that no event has occurred (e.g., insertion of an aerosol-generating article, user suction, etc.). The number of times the processor 1630 applies the output voltage can be modified in various ways according to the manufacturer's design.

[0163] In one implementation, the processor 1630 can determine whether an event has occurred by detecting changes in the input voltage input from the electrode 1620. For example, when it is detected that the input voltage input from the electrode 1620 is lower than a reference voltage V... ref At times, such as Figure 17 As shown in (b), the processor 1630 can detect the occurrence of the (1700) event. For example, when it is first detected that the input voltage from electrode 1620 is lower than the reference voltage V. ref At that time, the processor 1630 can determine that the event of inserting the aerosol to generate the article has occurred.

[0164] In the implementation, the input voltage drops below the reference voltage V as the event occurs. ref Subsequently, when the processor 1630 applies an output voltage to the electrode 1620 at specific cycles, the input voltage can reach the reference voltage V. ref .

[0165] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating a method for detecting changes in the charging time of electrodes by a processor according to another embodiment.

[0166] Reference Figure 18 The processor 1630 and the electrode 1620 can be connected to each other via at least two lines. For example, the at least two lines may include: a line for applying an output voltage to charge the electrode 1620 by the processor 1630; and a line for applying an input voltage to the processor 1630 to transmit the charging state of the electrode 1620.

[0167] In an implementation, the processor 1630 can apply an output voltage to the electrode 1620 at specific cycles, such as Figure 18As shown in (a) above. In this case, the output voltage can be regulated using a PWM method. For example, the processor 1630 can apply an output voltage to the electrode 1620 every 50 ms to charge the electrode 1620. In an embodiment, the processor 1630 can apply an output voltage to the electrode 1620 and simultaneously detect the input voltage input from the electrode 1620. For example, when checking the charging state of the electrode 1620, the processor 1630 can detect the input voltage without stopping the output of the output voltage used to charge the electrode 1620.

[0168] However, Figure 18 This is merely an example, and even when the processor 1630 and the electrode 1620 are connected to each other via two or more lines, the processor 1630 can stop outputting the output voltage when it detects the input voltage from the electrode 1620.

[0169] Figure 19a This is a diagram illustrating the charging time of the electrodes in the aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0170] Reference Figure 19a When the aerosol generating article (e.g., aerosol generating article 605 of FIG. 6) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (e.g., aerosol generating device 600 of FIG. 6) and the aerosol generating article 605 is removed after the user aspiration is performed, the change in the charging time of the electrode (e.g., electrode 620 of FIG. 6) can be divided into (i), (ii) and (iii) segments.

[0171] In the implementation, the processor (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can detect the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 605 based on the charging time of the electrode 620 in segment (i). In an embodiment, the processor 1530 can detect and count user suction based on the charging time of the electrode 620 in segment (ii), and can control the heater (e.g., Figure 15 The heating temperature of heater 1540. In an embodiment, processor 1530 can detect the removal of aerosol-generating article 605 based on the charging time of electrode 620 in segment (iii), and can control the cleaning operation of heater 1540. Detailed operation of the processor in each segment will be referred to below. Figures 20 to 33b Describe it.

[0172] Figure 19b It shows Figure 19a A graph showing the discharge time of the electrodes.

[0173] Reference Figure 19bWhen the aerosol generating article (e.g., aerosol generating article 605 of FIG. 6) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (e.g., aerosol generating device 600 of FIG. 6) and the aerosol generating article 605 is removed after the user aspiration is performed, the change in the discharge time of the electrode (e.g., electrode 620 of FIG. 6) can be divided into (i), (ii) and (iii) segments.

[0174] In the implementation, the processor (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can detect the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 605 based on the discharge time of the electrode 620 in segment (i). In an embodiment, the processor 1530 can detect and count the user's suction based on the discharge time of the electrode 620 in segment (ii), and can control the heater (e.g., Figure 15 The heating temperature of heater 1540. In an embodiment, processor 1530 can detect the removal of aerosol-generating article 605 based on the discharge time of electrode 620 in segment (iii), and can control the cleaning operation of heater 1540.

[0175] It shows Figure 19b The graph shows the discharge time of the electrodes in the figure. Figure 19a The graph of the charging time of the electrodes is vertically flipped, but the implementation is not limited to this.

[0176] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of detecting the insertion of an aerosol-generating article by the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 20 The flowchart can correspond to the processor operation in segment (i) of Figure 19.

[0177] Reference Figure 20 In working step 2001, the processor (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can acquire electrodes (e.g., Figure 15 The charging time and discharging time of the electrode 1510. In an embodiment, the processor 1530 may base the charging time on the input voltage input from the electrode 1510 (e.g., the charging time and discharging time of the electrode 1510). Figure 17 and Figure 18 The charging time of electrode 1510 is obtained by using the input voltage in the reference voltage (e.g., the input voltage in the reference voltage). For example, the charging time of electrode 1510 may refer to the time when the charging voltage of electrode 1510 reaches a preset reference voltage (e.g., the input voltage in the reference voltage). Figure 17 and Figure 18 The reference voltage V in ref The time taken. In another embodiment, the processor 1530 may obtain the discharge time of electrode 1510 based on the input voltage input from electrode 1510. For example, the discharge time of electrode 1510 may refer to the time taken for the charging voltage of electrode 1510 to reach 0V.

[0178] According to the embodiment, in working step 2003, the processor 1530 can determine whether the charging time of the electrode is longer than a specified first charging time or whether the discharging time of the electrode is shorter than a specified first discharging time. For example, the specified first charging time and the specified first discharging time can respectively refer to the charging voltage of the electrode 1510 reaching a preset reference voltage V after decreasing due to the insertion of the aerosol generating article. ref The charging and discharging times used.

[0179] According to an embodiment, in working step 2005, if the charging time of the electrode is longer than a specified first charging time or the discharging time of the electrode is shorter than a specified first discharging time, the processor 1530 can detect the insertion of the aerosol-generating article. According to an embodiment, when the charging time of the electrode is shorter than the specified first charging time or the discharging time of the electrode is longer than the specified first discharging time, the processor 1530 can return to working step 2001.

[0180] According to an implementation, in operating step 2007, the processor 1530 may supply power to the heater 1540 to power the heater (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can preheat the heater 1540. For example, when the insertion of an aerosol generating article is detected, the processor 1530 can supply power to the heater 1540 to execute the aerosol generating apparatus (e.g., heater 1540). Figure 15 The aerosol generating device 1500 has an automatic start-up function. In this case, the heater 1540 can be controlled to heat in the range of about 220°C to about 230°C, about 290°C to about 300°C, or about 330°C to about 340°C. However, the range of preheating temperature is illustrative and can be varied according to the manufacturer's design.

[0181] Figure 21 This is a graph showing the change in charging time of the electrodes when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0182] Reference Figure 21 Determine whether the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 15 The time period in the aerosol generating apparatus 1500 can be divided into a first segment 2100, a second segment 2110, and a third segment 2120. The first segment 2100 can correspond to the segment in which the aerosol generating product waits before being inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus. The second segment 2110 can correspond to the segment in which the aerosol generating product is prepared for preheating immediately after being inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus. The third segment 2120 can correspond to the segment in which the aerosol generating product is preheated.

[0183] According to the embodiment, in the first segment 2100, the counter electrode (e.g., Figure 15 The charging time required to charge electrode 1510 can be substantially consistent. Even when electrode 1510 does not include an additional discharge circuit, electrode 1510 can discharge continuously. Therefore, electrode 1510 may require a uniform charging time to compensate for the amount of charge lost due to continuous discharge of electrode 1510. Therefore, the processor of the aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can continuously apply a uniform voltage to the electrode 1510.

[0184] In one embodiment, the charging time of the electrode can be increased at the point 2130 when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus. In this case, the charging time of the electrode can be increased rapidly. In another embodiment, when the charging time 2150 of the electrode 1610 is longer than a predetermined first charging time 2140, the processor 1530 can determine that the aerosol generating article has been inserted and can activate the heater (e.g., Figure 15 The heater 1540 is controlled to be preheated.

[0185] According to one embodiment, when preparing to preheat the aerosol-generating article in the second stage 2110, the charging time of the electrode 1510 can be varied only within a specific range. According to another embodiment, when the aerosol-generating article is preheated in the third stage 2120, the charging time of the electrode 1510 can be gradually increased.

[0186] Figure 22a The image shows the state of the aerosol-generating article before it is inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 22b The state of the aerosol-generating article after it has been inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus according to the embodiment is shown.

[0187] Reference Figure 22a and Figure 22b The aerosol generating device 2200 may include a housing 2201, an electrode 2210, a battery 2220, a processor 2230, and a heater 2260.

[0188] Figure 22a The electrode 2210 may include a positive (+) charge of a first charge amount. Subsequently, when the aerosol generating article 2205 is inserted into the receiving portion 2203 corresponding to the inner peripheral surface of the housing 2201, Figure 22b Electrode 2210 may lose some of its positive (+) charge, which is carried away by moisture from components included in the aerosol-generating article 2205 (e.g., tobacco material 2207, outer packaging, etc.). Therefore, Figure 22bElectrode 2210 may include a positive (+) charge of a second charge less than the first charge.

[0189] like Figure 22b As shown, the charging time of electrode 2210 can be increased when the positive (+) charge on electrode 2210 decreases from a first charge amount to a second charge amount. Processor 2230 can detect this based on the input voltage input from electrode 2210. Figure 22b The charging time of electrode 2210 is increased.

[0190] In one embodiment, when an increase in the charging time of electrode 2210 is detected, processor 2230 can determine that aerosol generating article 2205 has been inserted. In another embodiment, processor 2230 can determine that the charging voltage of electrode 2210 has decreased based on the fact that the charging time of electrode 2210 has increased, and can determine that aerosol generating article 2205 has been inserted based on the decreased charging voltage.

[0191] In one embodiment, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article 2205 has been inserted, the processor 2230 can supply power from the battery 2220 to the heater 2260. In this case, the heater 2260 may be an internally heated type heater. However, the heater 2260 is not limited to this and may include at least one of an externally heated type heater, an induction coil, and a base.

[0192] Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating the detection of a user's inhalation by an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. Figure 23 The flowchart can correspond to the first operation of the processor in segment (ii) of Figure 19.

[0193] Reference Figure 23 In working step 2301, the processor (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can acquire electrodes (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 may adjust the charging time and discharging time of the electrode (e.g., electrode 1510) based on at least one of these variations. In an embodiment, the processor 1530 may adjust the charging time or discharging time of the electrode based on the variation in the charging time or discharging time of the electrode. Figure 15 The processor 1530 can detect changes in the amount of aerosol generated by the heater 1540. For example, the processor 1530 can detect changes based on the input voltage input from the electrode 1510 (e.g., Figure 17 and Figure 18 The processor 1530 uses the input voltage in the circuit to obtain the change in the charging time of electrode 1510. When the charging time of electrode 1510 decreases within a certain time, the processor 1530 can determine that the aerosol generated by heater 1540 has been removed.

[0194] According to the implementation, in working step 2303, the processor 1530 can determine whether the gradient of the change in charging time of electrode 1510 is negative or whether the gradient of the change in discharging time of electrode 1510 is positive. For example, when the gradient of the change in charging time of electrode 1510 is negative or the gradient of the change in discharging time of electrode 1510 is positive, the processor 1530 can determine that the aerosol generated by heater 1540 is reduced due to the user's inhalation.

[0195] According to an embodiment, in working step 2305, when the gradient of the change in the charging time of electrode 1510 is negative or the gradient of the change in the discharging time of electrode 1510 is positive, the processor 1530 can detect user suction. According to an embodiment, when the gradient of the change in the charging time of electrode 1510 is 0 or greater, or the gradient of the change in the discharging time of electrode 1510 is 0 or less, the processor 1530 can return to working step 2301.

[0196] According to the implementation, in operating step 2307, when user suction is detected, processor 1530 can supply power to heater 1540 to generate aerosol. For example, processor 1530 can supply specific power to heater 1540 to generate aerosol amounts reduced due to user suction.

[0197] Figure 24 This is a graph showing the charging time as the change of the electrodes is detected when a user inhales in the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0198] Reference Figure 24 processor (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can monitor electrodes (e.g., Figure 15 The charging time of electrode 1510 is used to obtain data on the user's suction.

[0199] In one implementation, the processor 1530 can detect user suction based on changes in the charging time of the electrode 1510.

[0200] In one implementation, the processor 1530 can detect the user's first suction when the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 is negative. For example, when the processor detects that the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 switches from 0 to negative, the processor 1530 can determine that the user's first suction begins at time point 2400. When the processor detects that the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 switches from negative to 0, the processor 1530 can determine that the user's first suction ends at time point 2410. In another example, when the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 remains negative for a specific period of time, the processor 1530 can determine that this specific period is the user's first suction segment.

[0201] In another embodiment, the processor 1530 can detect the user's first suction when the change 2405 in the charging time of electrode 1510 exceeds a specified change amount or more. For example, when the specified change amount is 0.5 seconds and the change 2405 in the charging time of electrode 1510 is 0.8 seconds, the processor 1530 can determine that the user's suction has occurred. On the other hand, the processor 1530 can also detect the user's suction by the change in charging voltage. That is, when the charging voltage of electrode 1510 increases by a specified change amount or more, the processor 1530 can detect the user's first suction.

[0202] In this embodiment, the charging time of electrode 1510 can gradually increase from the end time 2410 of the first suction to the start time 2420 of the second suction. For example, when the user's first suction ends, an aerosol may be generated from the aerosol generating article before the next suction begins, so the capacitance of electrode 1510 may change due to the generated aerosol. As the capacitance of electrode 1510 changes, the charging time of electrode 1510 can gradually increase from the end time 2410 of the first suction to the start time 2420 of the second suction, so the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 can be positive.

[0203] In one implementation, the processor 1530 can detect the user's second suction when the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 is negative. For example, when the processor 1530 detects that the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 switches from 0 to negative after the end of the first suction at time 2410, the processor 1530 can determine that the user's second suction begins at time 2420. When the processor 1530 detects that the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 switches from negative to 0, the processor 1530 can determine that the detection time is the end of the user's second suction at time 2430. In another example, when the gradient of the charging time of electrode 1510 remains negative for a specific time period, the processor 1530 can detect that specific time period as the user's second suction segment.

[0204] Figure 25a The state before the user inhales is detected in the aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiment is shown. Figure 25b The state after a user's inhalation is detected in the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment is shown.

[0205] Reference Figure 25a and Figure 25b The aerosol generating device 2500 may include a housing 2501, an electrode 2510, a battery 2520, a processor 2530, and a heater 2560.

[0206] Figure 25a Electrode 2510 may lose its positive (+) charge due to moisture in components included in the aerosol generating article 2505 (e.g., tobacco material 2507). For example, an aerosol can be generated when the aerosol generating article 2505 is heated by heater 2560, and Figure 25a Electrode 2510 may lose positive (+) charge due to the generated aerosol and may include a first amount of positive (+) charge. Subsequently, when the generated aerosol is removed by user suction 2550, Figure 25b Electrode 2510 may include a positive (+) charge of a second charge greater than the first charge.

[0207] like Figure 25b As shown, when the positive (+) charge on electrode 2510 increases from a first charge amount to a second charge amount, the charging time of electrode 2510 can be reduced. Processor 2530 can detect this based on the input voltage input from electrode 2510. Figure 25b The charging time of electrode 2510 is reduced.

[0208] In one embodiment, when a decrease in the charging time of electrode 2510 is detected, processor 2530 can determine that user suction 2550 has occurred. In another embodiment, processor 2530 can determine that the charging voltage of electrode 2510 has increased based on the decrease in the charging time of electrode 2510, and can also determine that user suction 2550 has occurred based on the increased charging voltage.

[0209] In one implementation, the processor 2530 can count the number of times the user inhales 2550. In this case, when the counted number of inhalations exceeds a preset maximum number of inhalations for the aerosol-generating article 2505, the processor 2530 can limit the power supply to the heater 2560. For example, when the preset maximum number of inhalations for the aerosol-generating article 2505 is 15 and the current count is 5, the processor 2530 can supply power to heat the aerosol-generating article 2505 using the heater 2560. In another example, when the preset maximum number of inhalations for the aerosol-generating article 2505 is 15 and the current count is 16, the processor 2530 can limit the power supply to the heater 2560 to stop heating the aerosol-generating article 2505 through the heater 2560.

[0210] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the power supplied to the heater by the aerosol generating apparatus of the embodiment. Figure 26 The flowchart can correspond to the second operation of the processor in segment (ii) of Figure 19.

[0211] Reference Figure 26 In step 2601, the processor (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can acquire electrodes (e.g., Figure 15 The charging time and discharging time of the electrode 1510. In an embodiment, the processor 1530 may base the charging time on the input voltage input from the electrode 1510 (e.g., the charging time and discharging time of the electrode 1510). Figure 17 and Figure 18 The charging time of electrode 1510 is obtained by using the input voltage in the reference voltage (e.g., the input voltage in the reference voltage). For example, the charging time of electrode 1510 may refer to the time when the charging voltage of electrode 1510 reaches a preset reference voltage (e.g., the input voltage in the reference voltage). Figure 17 and Figure 18 The reference voltage V in ref The charging time used. In another embodiment, the processor 1530 can obtain the discharge time of electrode 1510 based on the input voltage input from electrode 1510. For example, the discharge time of electrode 1510 can refer to the discharge time required for the charging voltage of electrode 1510 to reach 0V.

[0212] According to the embodiment, in operating step 2603, the processor 1530 can determine whether the charging time of the electrode 1510 is longer than a specified second charging time or whether the discharging time of the electrode 1510 is shorter than a specified second discharging time. For example, the specified second charging time and the specified second discharging time can respectively refer to the charging time and discharging time required for the charging voltage of the electrode 1510 to reach a specific voltage that allows the aerosol generating article to be heated and generate a reference atomization amount of aerosol. In this case, the reference atomization amount can refer to a reference generation amount determined such that the aerosol generating article provides a uniform amount of aerosol to the user.

[0213] According to an embodiment, in operating step 2605, when the charging time of the electrode is longer than a specified second charging time or the discharging time of the electrode is shorter than a specified second discharging time, the processor 1530 may supply the heater 1540 with a first power lower than a reference power. According to an embodiment, in operating step 2607, when the charging time of the electrode is not longer than a specified second charging time or the discharging time of the electrode is not shorter than a specified second discharging time, the processor 1530 may determine whether the charging time of the electrode is shorter than a specified second charging time or whether the discharging time of the electrode is longer than a specified second discharging time. According to an embodiment, in operating step 2609, when the charging time of the electrode is shorter than a specified second charging time or the discharging time of the electrode is longer than a specified second discharging time, the processor 1530 may supply the heater with a second power higher than a reference power. According to an embodiment, when the charging time of the electrode is equal to a specified second charging time or the discharging time of the electrode is equal to a specified second discharging time, the processor 1530 may terminate the operation and not supply power to the heater 1540.

[0214] For example, processor 1530 can supply reference power to heater 1540, enabling the generation of aerosols from aerosol-generating articles. In this case, the heating temperature of heater 1540, to which reference power is supplied, can be 250°C.

[0215] The processor 1530 can acquire the charging time or discharging time of the electrode, and can determine whether the acquired charging time of the electrode is longer than a specified second charging time or whether the electrode discharging time is shorter than a specified second discharging time. When the acquired charging time of the electrode is longer than the specified second charging time or the electrode discharging time is shorter than the specified second discharging time, the processor 1530 can control the power supplied to the heater 1540 to reduce the heating temperature of the heater 1540. That is, the processor 1530 can determine that the amount of aerosol generated is greater than a reference atomization amount, and can set the power supplied to the heater 1540 to a first power lower than the reference power, so as to reduce the heating temperature of the heater 1540 from 250°C to 230°C.

[0216] When the charging time of the acquired electrode is shorter than a specified second charging time or the discharging time of the electrode is longer than a specified second discharging time, the processor 1530 can control the power supplied to the heater 1540 to increase the heating temperature of the heater 1540. That is, the processor 1530 can determine that the amount of aerosol generated is less than a reference atomization amount, and can set the power supplied to the heater 1540 to a second power higher than the reference power, so as to increase the heating temperature of the heater 1540 from 250°C to 270°C.

[0217] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing the power supplied to the heater in an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment, based on electrode charging time control.

[0218] Reference Figure 27 processor (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can control the supply to the heater (e.g., Figure 15 The power of the heater 1540 enables the generation of a uniform amount of aerosol from the aerosol-generating product.

[0219] In this implementation, the processor 1530 can detect the charging time of an electrode with a shorter specified second charging time during the first stage 2700. In this case, the processor 1530 can determine, based on the detected charging time of the electrode, that the amount of aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating article is less than a reference atomization amount. Therefore, the processor 1530 can supply a first power 2730, which is higher than the reference power, to the heater 1540, so that the amount of aerosol can reach the reference atomization amount during the first stage 2700. Since the power supplied to the heater 1540 is set to the first power 2730, the charging time of the electrode can be gradually increased and can reach (2705) a specified second charging time. Then, after reaching (2705) the specified second charging time, the charging time of the electrode may exceed the specified second charging time.

[0220] In this case, the processor 1530 can supply a second power 2740, which is lower than the reference power, to the heater 1540, so that the amount of aerosol can reach the reference atomization amount in the second stage 2710. Since the power supplied to the heater 1540 is set to the second power 2740, the charging time of the electrode can be gradually reduced and can reach the specified second charging time (2715). Then, after reaching the specified second charging time (2715), the charging time of the electrode may become less than the specified second charging time.

[0221] In this configuration, the processor 1530 can supply a third power 2750, which is higher than the reference power but lower than the first power 2730, to the heater 1540, allowing the aerosol quantity to reach the reference atomization level in the third stage 2720. Since the power supplied to the heater 1540 is set to the third power 2750, the electrode charging time can be gradually increased.

[0222] In this implementation, from the first stage 2700 to the third stage 2720, the difference between the amount of aerosol generated and the reference atomization amount can gradually decrease. That is, since the processor 1530 controls the power supplied to the heater 1540 based on the charging time of the electrodes, the amount of aerosol generated can approach the reference atomization amount.

[0223] Figure 28 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0224] Reference Figure 28 The aerosol generating device 2800 may include an electrode 2810, a battery 2820, a processor 2830, a heater 2840, and a memory 2850. Figure 28 The electrode 2810, battery 2820, processor 2830, and heater 2840 can respectively correspond to Figure 15 The electrode 2510, battery 1520, processor 1530, and heater 1540 are included. Therefore, descriptions that are repeated with them can be omitted.

[0225] In one implementation, the processor 2830 may store data about the user's smoking pattern in the memory 2850. For example, the data about the user's smoking pattern may include at least one of data about the user's inhalation cycle and data about the user's inhalation time (i.e., inhalation time).

[0226] In one implementation, the processor 2830 can retrieve data about the user's smoking pattern from the memory 2850 to set a reference atomization level for the aerosol-generated article. The processor 2830 can control the power supplied to the heater 2840 so that the amount of aerosol can reach the reference atomization level set based on the user's smoking pattern data.

[0227] In one implementation, the processor 2830 can retrieve data about the user's inhalation cycle from the memory 2850. Based on the obtained data about the user's inhalation cycle, it can be determined when the second inhalation will begin after the first inhalation. Therefore, after the first inhalation occurs, the processor 2830 can control the power supplied to the heater 2840 so that an aerosol of a reference atomization amount can be generated from the aerosol generating article before the second inhalation begins.

[0228] In one implementation, the processor 2830 can retrieve data about the user's inhalation time (i.e., inhalation time) from the memory 2850. A reference atomization amount regarding the aerosol quantity can be set based on the obtained data about the user's inhalation time (i.e., inhalation time). Therefore, the processor 2830 can control the power supplied to the heater 2840 so that an aerosol with the reference atomization amount can be generated from the aerosol generating article.

[0229] In this implementation, the processor 2830 can monitor the charging time of the electrode 2810 and obtain snoring data related to the user's snoring based on the monitoring results. For example, the snoring data related to the user's snoring may refer to snoring data updated from the user's existing snoring data. The processor 2830 can store "5.5 seconds" as the user's existing snoring cycle in the memory 2850. Subsequently, as a result of monitoring the charging time of the electrode 2810, when the user's snoring cycle changes to "7 seconds", the processor 2830 can reflect the updated snoring data "user snoring cycle = 7 seconds" in the data about the user's smoking pattern and store the updated snoring data in the memory 2850.

[0230] Figure 29 This is a graph showing the charging time of the electrode according to the embodiment, which varies according to the user's smoking pattern.

[0231] Reference Figure 29 processor (e.g., Figure 28 The processor 2830 can monitor electrodes (e.g., Figure 28 The charging time of the electrode 2810 is used to obtain data about the user's inhalation cycle and the obtained data about the user's inhalation cycle is stored in the memory 2850. For example, when the first user 2900 passes through the aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 28 When a user 2900 smokes through the aerosol generating device 2800, the processor 2830 can obtain a first inhalation cycle 2905 as data regarding the inhalation cycle of the first user 2900. In another example, when a second user 2910 smokes through the aerosol generating device 2800, the processor 2830 can obtain a second inhalation cycle 2915, which is longer than the first inhalation cycle 2905, as data regarding the inhalation cycle of the second user 2910.

[0232] If the same reference atomization amount of aerosol is to be provided to a first user 2900 and a second user 2910 with different inhalation cycles, the processor 2830 can control the supply to the heater (e.g., based on the user's inhalation cycle). Figure 28 The heater (2840) has electricity.

[0233] For example, processor 2830 can control the power supplied to heater 2840 to a first power level, such that a reference atomized amount of aerosol can be generated during a first inhalation period 2905 (e.g., 5 seconds) starting from the inhalation start time of first user 2900. In another example, processor 2830 can control the power supplied to heater 2840 to a second power level lower than the first power level, such that a reference atomized amount of aerosol can be generated during a second inhalation period 2915 (e.g., 8 seconds) starting from the inhalation start time of second user 2910.

[0234] Figure 30 This is a graph showing the charging time of the electrode according to another embodiment, which varies according to the user's smoking pattern.

[0235] Reference Figure 30 processor (e.g., Figure 28 The processor 2830 can monitor electrodes (e.g., Figure 28 The charging time of electrode 2810 is used to obtain data about the user's inhalation time (i.e., inhalation time) and the obtained data about the user's inhalation time is stored in a memory (e.g., Figure 28 In the memory 2850). For example, when the first user 3000 passes through the aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 28 When the aerosol generating device 2800 smokes during the first inhalation cycle 3020, the processor 2830 can obtain a first inhalation time 3005 as data regarding the inhalation time of the first user 3000. In another example, when the second user 3010 smokes through the aerosol generating device 2800 during the first inhalation cycle 3020, the processor 2830 can obtain a second inhalation time 3015 as data regarding the inhalation time of the second user 3010.

[0236] When the same amount of aerosol needs to be provided to a first user 3000 and a second user 3010 with different inhalation times (i.e., inhalation times), the processor 2830 can set a reference aerosol amount based on the user's inhalation time. For example, for a first user 3000 who inhales the aerosol for a first inhalation time 3005 (e.g., 1 second) during a first inhalation cycle 3020, the processor 2830 can set the reference aerosol amount for the first user 3000 as a first reference aerosol amount. In another example, for a second user 3010 who inhales the aerosol for a second inhalation time 3015 that is longer than the first inhalation time 3005 during a first inhalation cycle 3020, the processor 2830 can set the reference aerosol amount for the second user 3010 as a second reference aerosol amount that is less than the first reference aerosol amount.

[0237] Since the reference atomization volume is set based on the user's inhalation time, the maximum number of inhalations for aerosol-generated products (e.g., 15 times) can be equally provided to users with different inhalation times.

[0238] Figure 31 This is a flowchart illustrating the detection of the removal of aerosol-generated articles by an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 31 The flowchart can correspond to the processor operation in segment (iii) of Figure 19.

[0239] Reference Figure 31 In step 3101, the processor (e.g., Figure 15 The processor 1530 can acquire electrodes (e.g., Figure 15 The charging time and discharging time of the electrode 1510. In an embodiment, the processor 1530 may base the charging time on the input voltage input from the electrode 1510 (e.g., the charging time and discharging time of the electrode 1510). Figure 17 and Figure 18 The charging time of electrode 1510 is obtained by using the input voltage in the reference voltage (e.g., the input voltage in the reference voltage). For example, the charging time of electrode 1510 may refer to the time when the charging voltage of electrode 1510 reaches a preset reference voltage (e.g., the input voltage in the reference voltage). Figure 17 and Figure 18 The reference voltage V in ref The time taken. In another embodiment, the processor 1530 may obtain the discharge time of electrode 1510 based on the input voltage input from electrode 1510. For example, the discharge time of the electrode may refer to the time it takes for the charging voltage of electrode 1510 to reach 0V.

[0240] According to the implementation, in working step 3103, the processor 1530 can determine whether the charging time of the electrode is shorter than a specified third charging time or whether the discharging time of the electrode is longer than a specified third discharging time. For example, the specified third charging time and the specified third discharging time can respectively refer to the charging voltage of the electrode 1510 reaching a preset reference voltage V after increasing as the aerosol-generating article is removed. ref The charging and discharging times used.

[0241] According to an embodiment, in working step 3105, when the electrode charging time is shorter than a specified third charging time or the electrode discharging time is longer than a specified third discharging time, the processor 1530 can detect the removal of the aerosol-generated article. According to an embodiment, when the electrode charging time is longer than a specified third discharging time or the electrode discharging time is shorter than a specified third discharging time, the processor 1530 can return to working step 3101.

[0242] According to an embodiment, in operating step 3107, the processor 1530 can supply power to the heater 1540 to apply the heat to the heater (e.g., Figure 15 Material removal from heater 1540. For example, when removal of aerosol-generating articles is detected, processor 1530 can perform a cleaning operation to remove material attached to heater 1540 by heating heater 1540 at a high temperature. In this case, the heating temperature of heater 1540 for the cleaning operation can be higher than the heating temperature of heater 1540 for heating aerosol-generating articles. For example, to perform the cleaning operation, processor 1530 can control the power supplied to heater 1540 so that heater 1540 can have a temperature range of about 450°C to about 550°C. More preferably, to perform the cleaning operation, processor 1530 can control the power supplied to heater 1540 so that heater 1540 can have a temperature range of about 500°C to about 550°C. However, the heating temperature range used to perform the cleaning operation of heater 1540 is merely an example and can be varied according to the manufacturer's design.

[0243] In one embodiment, when the removal of an aerosol-generating article is detected, the processor 1530 can automatically perform a cleaning operation on the heater 1540. For example, when the removal of an aerosol-generating article from the aerosol-generating apparatus is detected, the processor 1530 can automatically perform a cleaning operation on the heater 1540 after a specified time (e.g., 10 minutes) has elapsed from the moment the aerosol-generating article was removed. In another embodiment, when the insertion of an aerosol-generating article is detected during the cleaning operation, the processor 1530 can automatically stop the cleaning operation on the heater 1540.

[0244] Figure 32 This is a graph showing the change in the charging time of the electrodes as the aerosol-generating article is removed from the aerosol-generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0245] Reference Figure 32 The aerosol generating article is determined to be inserted into the aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 15 The time period in the aerosol generating apparatus 1500 can be divided into a first segment 3200 and a second segment 3210. The first segment 3200 can correspond to the segment in which the aerosol generating article is inserted. The second segment 3210 can correspond to the segment after the aerosol generating article is removed.

[0246] In an embodiment, when smoking occurs before time point 3220 when the aerosol-generating article is removed, the electrode (e.g., Figure 15The charging time for electrode 1510 can be increased in the first stage 3200. For example, as the aerosol-generating article is heated in the first stage 3200, the temperature of the area where the electrode is located may also rise. As the temperature rises, the charging time required to charge the electrode can be gradually increased.

[0247] When smoking occurs before the aerosol-generating article is removed at time 3220, the charging time of the electrode can be reduced as the aerosol-generating article is removed. In this case, the charging time of the electrode can be reduced rapidly. In an embodiment, when the charging time of the electrode 3250 is shorter than a specified third charging time 3230, the processor 1530 can determine that the aerosol-generating article has been removed.

[0248] In another embodiment, when no smoking (3270) occurs before the aerosol-generating article is removed at time 3220, the charging time of the electrode can be substantially uniform during the first phase 3200. Since the electrode can continuously discharge even without an additional discharge circuit, the electrode may require charging time to replenish the amount of charge lost due to continuous discharge. Therefore, the processor 1530 can continuously apply a constant voltage to the electrode.

[0249] When no smoking occurs (3270) before the aerosol-generating article is removed at time 3220, the electrode charging time can be reduced as the aerosol-generating article is removed. In this case, the electrode charging time can be reduced rapidly. In an embodiment, when the electrode charging time 3250 is shorter than a specified third charging time 3230, the processor 1530 can determine that the aerosol-generating article has been removed.

[0250] In one implementation, the processor 1530 can determine whether to perform a cleaning operation on the heater 1540 in the second segment 3210 based on changes in the charging time of the electrodes in the first segment 3200. For example, when a significant change occurs in the charging time of the electrodes in the first segment 3200, the processor 1530 can determine that smoking (3260) occurred before the time point 3220 when the aerosol-generating article was removed, and therefore can perform a cleaning operation on the heater 1540 in the second segment 3210. In another example, when no significant change occurs in the charging time of the electrodes in the first segment 3200, the processor 1530 can determine that smoking (3270) did not occur before the time point 3220 when the aerosol-generating article was removed, and therefore can not perform a cleaning operation on the heater 1540 in the second segment 3210.

[0251] Figure 33a The state of the aerosol-generated article before it is removed from the aerosol-generating apparatus according to the embodiment is shown. Figure 33bThe state of the aerosol-generated article after it has been removed from the aerosol-generating apparatus according to the embodiment is shown.

[0252] Reference Figure 33a and Figure 33b The aerosol generating device 3300 may include a housing 3301, an electrode 3310, a battery 3320, a processor 3330, and a heater 3360.

[0253] Figure 33a Electrode 3310 may include a first amount of positive (+) charge. The first amount of charge may refer to the amount of charge remaining in electrode 3310 after some positive (+) charge has been lost due to moisture in components (e.g., tobacco material 3307) included in the aerosol-generating article 3305 located near electrode 3310, such as... Figure 33a As shown. Subsequently, when the aerosol-generating article 3305 is removed from the receiving portion 3303 corresponding to the inner peripheral surface of the housing 3301, Figure 33b Electrode 3310 may include a positive (+) charge of a second charge greater than the first charge.

[0254] like Figure 33b As shown, when the positive (+) charge on electrode 3310 increases from a first charge amount to a second charge amount, the charging time of electrode 3310 can be reduced. Processor 3330 can detect this based on the input voltage input from electrode 3310. Figure 33b The charging time of electrode 3310 is reduced.

[0255] In one embodiment, when a decrease in the charging time of electrode 3310 is detected, processor 3330 can determine that aerosol generating article 3305 has been removed. In another embodiment, processor 3330 can determine that an increase in the charging voltage of electrode 3310 is based on the decrease in the charging time of electrode 3310, and can determine that aerosol generating article 3305 has been removed based on the increased charging voltage.

[0256] In one embodiment, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article 3305 has been removed, the processor 3330 may perform a cleaning operation on the heater 3360. In another embodiment, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article 3305 has been removed, the processor 3330 may perform the cleaning operation on the heater 3360 after a specified time (e.g., 10 minutes) has elapsed since the removal of the aerosol generating article 3305. In yet another embodiment, after determining that the aerosol generating article has been removed, the processor 3330 may perform the cleaning operation on the heater 3360 upon receiving user input for performing the cleaning operation on the heater 3360.

[0257] Figure 34This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0258] Reference Figure 34 The aerosol generating device 3400 may include an electrode 3410, a battery 3420, a processor 3430, and a heater 3460. Figure 34 The electrode 3410, battery 3420, processor 3430, and heater 3460 can correspond to Figure 15 The electrode 1510, battery 1520, processor 1530, and heater 1540 are included. Therefore, descriptions that are repeated with them can be omitted.

[0259] In one implementation, processor 3430 may include a sensing processor 3440 and a main processor 3450. Sensing processor 3440 may include a power supply module 3442, a controller 3444, and a communication module 3446.

[0260] The power supply module 3442 can receive power from the battery 3420 and can supply the power to the electrode 3410 through the controller 3444.

[0261] The controller 3444 can apply an output voltage to the electrode 3410 and can detect the input voltage input from the electrode 3410. In this case, the controller 3444 can regulate the output voltage in a PWM manner and apply the output voltage to the electrode 3410. In one embodiment, the controller 3444 and the electrode 3410 can be connected to each other via a line, and the controller 3444 can apply an output voltage to the electrode 3410 via this line and can detect the input voltage input from the electrode 3410. In another embodiment, the controller 3444 and the electrode 3410 can be connected to each other via at least two lines, and the controller 3444 can apply an output voltage to the electrode 3410 via one of the at least two lines and can detect the input voltage input from the electrode 3410 via the other line.

[0262] The communication module 3446 can send data related to the change in the charging time of electrode 3410 based on the input voltage detected from electrode 3410 to the main processor 3450.

[0263] In one implementation, the main processor 3450 can determine the insertion of the aerosol-generating article based on data received from the communication module 3446 relating to changes in the charging time of the electrode 3410. When the data includes information indicating an increase in the charging time of the electrode 3410, the main processor 3450 can determine that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus 3410. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted, the main processor 3450 can apply power to the heater 3460 to perform a preheating operation using the heater 3460.

[0264] In one implementation, when the sensing processor 3440 periodically monitors the charging time of the electrode 3410, the main processor 3450 may correspond to a low-power mode (sleep mode). When the sensing processor 3440 receives information indicating an increase in the charging time of the electrode 3410, the main processor 3450 may switch its power supply state from the low-power mode to the active mode.

[0265] The above description of the embodiments is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various variations and equivalent embodiments can be made from these embodiments. Therefore, the true scope of protection of this disclosure should be defined by the appended claims, and all differences within the equivalent scope of the scope described in the claims should be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, wherein, The aerosol generating device includes: heater; A housing, the housing including a receiving portion for inserting an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article including a cigarette, the housing having a cylindrical shape including an outer peripheral surface and an inner peripheral surface, the receiving portion being a space surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of the housing; A single electrode, disposed between the inner and outer peripheral surfaces of the housing and not exposed to the outside, thereby being separate from the aerosol-generating article inserted into the receiving portion, and the single electrode being positioned to correspond to at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article; and The processor, which is electrically connected to the heater and the single electrode, The processor acquires the charge of the individual electrode based on the change in the dielectric constant of the moisture in the aerosol-generated product.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heater includes: A base configured to heat the aerosol-generating article; and A coil configured to induce a variable magnetic field to heat the base. The single electrode is disposed between the receiving portion and the coil.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heater includes: A base configured to heat the aerosol-generating article; and A coil configured to induce a variable magnetic field to heat the base. The single electrode is integrally formed with the coil.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heater is configured to heat the interior or exterior of the aerosol-generating article by means of resistance heating, and The individual electrode is positioned to correspond to the overlapping area of ​​the aerosol-generating article and the heater.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the aerosol generating article is inserted, the single electrode is positioned to correspond to at least a portion of the region of the aerosol generating article in which the aerosol generating substance is disposed.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor obtains at least one of the charging time and discharging time of the single electrode based on the acquired change in the charge of the single electrode, and The processor determines that the insertion of the aerosol-generated article has occurred when the charging time is longer than a specified first charging time or the discharging time is shorter than a specified first discharging time.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, When the insertion of the aerosol-generated article is detected, the processor supplies power to the heater for preheating.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor: Based on the obtained change in the charge of the individual electrode, at least one of the changes in the charging time and the discharge time of the individual electrode is obtained, and The user's suction is detected based on the changes in the charging time or the discharge time of the individual electrode.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The processor detects the user's suction when the gradient of the charging time relative to time is negative or the gradient of the discharging time relative to time is positive.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, When a user's suction is detected, the processor supplies power to the heater to generate an aerosol.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor: The power supplied to the heater is controlled based on at least one of the charging time and the discharging time of the individual electrode.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The processor: When the charging time is longer than a specified second charging time or the discharging time is shorter than a specified second discharging time, a first power lower than the reference power is supplied to the heater, and When the charging time is shorter than the specified second charging time or the discharging time is longer than the specified second discharging time, a second power higher than the reference power is supplied to the heater.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor: Based on the change in charge of the individual electrode, at least one of the charging time and discharging time of the individual electrode is obtained, and When the charging time is shorter than a specified third charging time or the discharging time is longer than a specified third discharging time, it is determined that the removal of the aerosol-generating article has occurred.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, When the removal of the aerosol-generated article is detected, the processor supplies power to the heater to remove the material attached to the heater.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, After a specified time elapses from the moment the removal of the aerosol-generated article is detected, the processor supplies power to the heater to remove the material attached to the heater.

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