Aerosol-generating device and method of operating the same

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device and an operating method thereof are disclosed. The aerosol-generating device of the disclosure includes a wick configured to absorb an aerosol-generating material, a heater configured to heat the wick, a sensor configured to sense a puff, and a controller. The controller performs control to heat the heater while sensing a puff, and detects a temperature of the heater. Based on the temperature of the heater being equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature, the controller interrupts a supply of power to the heater. Based on the temperature of the heater being lower than the threshold temperature, the controller determines whether there is a necessity to change the threshold temperature. Based on a need to change the threshold temperature, the controller changes the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device and an operating method thereof. BACKGROUND

[0002] An aerosol-generating device is a device that extracts certain components from a medium or a substance by forming an aerosol. The medium can include a multi-component substance. The substance included in the medium can be a multi-component flavoring substance. For example, the substance included in the medium can include a nicotine component, a Chinese medicine component, and / or a coffee component. Recently, various studies have been conducted on aerosol-generating devices. Recently, various studies have been conducted on aerosol-generating devices. SUMMARY

[0003] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0004] An object of the disclosure is to solve the above and other problems.

[0005] Another object of the disclosure is to provide an aerosol-generating device and an operating method thereof capable of preventing carbonization of a wick in consideration of manufacturing tolerances.

[0006] Still another object of the disclosure is to provide an aerosol-generating device and an operating method thereof capable of heating a heater to a desired temperature in consideration of a change in a resistance value of the heater attributable to manufacturing tolerances.

[0007] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0008] An aerosol-generating device according to one aspect of the disclosure for achieving the above and other objects can include a wick configured to absorb an aerosol-generating substance, a heater configured to heat the wick, a sensor configured to sense a puff, and a controller. The controller can perform control to heat the heater while the puff is sensed, and can detect a temperature of the heater. When the temperature of the heater is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature, the controller can interrupt a supply of power to the heater. When the temperature of the heater is lower than the threshold temperature, the controller can determine whether it is necessary to change the threshold temperature. When it is necessary to change the threshold temperature, the controller can change the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater.

[0009] An operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an aspect of the disclosure for implementing the above and other objects can include the steps of heating a heater of the aerosol generating device to heat a wick that absorbs an aerosol generating material while a puff is sensed, detecting a temperature of the heater, interrupting a supply of power to the heater when the temperature of the heater is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature, determining whether it is necessary to change the threshold temperature when the temperature of the heater is lower than the threshold temperature, and changing the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater when it is necessary to change the threshold temperature.

[0010] Advantageous Effects

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of the disclosure, carbonization of a wick due to heating by a heater can be prevented even when an amount of aerosol generating material absorbed in the wick varies due to manufacturing tolerances.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of the disclosure, a heater can be heated to a desired temperature regardless of a variation in an electrical resistance value of the heater due to manufacturing tolerances.

[0013] Additional applications of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, because the disclosure proceeds through specific embodiments, it will be appreciated that the detailed description and specific embodiments merely aim to set forth illustrative examples of the preferred embodiments of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figures 1 to 5 is a diagram for explaining an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0016] Figure 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0017] Figures 7 to 10 is a diagram for explaining an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in the specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Even if the same or similar elements are depicted in different drawings, they are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0019] In the following description, with respect to constituent elements used in the following description, suffixes "module" and "unit" are used only in consideration of ease of description. "Module" and "unit" do not have meanings or functions distinguished from each other.

[0020] In addition, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations incorporated herein will be omitted when they may make the subject matter of the embodiments disclosed in this specification considerably unclear. In addition, the accompanying drawings are provided only to facilitate a better understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification and are not intended to limit the technical concepts disclosed in this specification. Therefore, it should be understood that the accompanying drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0021] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc. may be used herein to describe various components. However, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another.

[0022] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as being “connected to” or “coupled to” another component, it can be directly connected to or coupled to the other component. However, it should be understood that intervening components may be present. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another component, there are no intervening components present.

[0023] As used herein, singular forms are intended to include plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0024] In the following, based on Figures 1 to 5 The directions of the aerosol generating device can be defined using the orthogonal coordinate system shown. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the rightward and leftward directions of the aerosol generating device. Here, based on the origin, the +x-axis direction can be intended to refer to the rightward direction, and the -x-axis direction can be intended to refer to the leftward direction. In addition, the y-axis direction can be defined as the upward and downward directions of the aerosol generating device. Here, based on the origin, the +y-axis direction can be intended to refer to the upward direction, and the -y-axis direction can be intended to refer to the downward direction. In addition, the z-axis direction can be defined as the forward and backward directions of the aerosol generating device. Here, based on the origin, the +z-axis direction can be intended to refer to the forward direction, and the -z-axis direction can be intended to refer to the backward direction.

[0025] Reference Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body 10 and / or a cigarette cartridge 20 .

[0026] The cartridge 20 may be coupled to the main body 10. The cartridge 20 may be mounted to the main body 10 in such a manner that a portion of the cartridge 20 is inserted into the accommodation space 19 in the main body 10.

[0027] The cartridge 20 can contain an aerosol generating material therein. For example, the cartridge 20 can contain an aerosol generating material in one of a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, and a gel state. The aerosol generating material can include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid including a tobacco-containing material having a volatile tobacco flavor component, or can be a liquid including a non-tobacco material.

[0028] For example, the liquid composition can include one component selected from water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a flavoring, a seasoning, and a vitamin mixture, or a mixture of these components. The flavoring can include menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit flavor components, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The seasoning can include an ingredient capable of providing various flavors or tastes to a user. The vitamin mixture can be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, or vitamin E, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In addition, the liquid composition can include an aerosol former such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0029] For example, the liquid composition can include a solution of glycerol and propylene glycol in any weight ratio, to which a nicotine salt is added. The liquid composition can include two or more types of nicotine salts. The nicotine salt can be formed by adding a suitable acid (including an organic acid or an inorganic acid) to nicotine. The nicotine can be naturally generated nicotine or synthetic nicotine, and can be in any proportion of the total weight of the liquid composition.

[0030] The acid used to form the nicotine salt can be appropriately selected in consideration of the absorption rate of nicotine in blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generating device 100, the flavor or taste, the solubility, etc. For example, the acid used to form the nicotine salt can be a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, hexanoic acid, octanoic acid, decanoic acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharin acid, malonic acid, and malic acid, or can be a mixture of two or more acids selected from the above group. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0031] The cartridge 20 can be operated by an electrical signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the main body 10 to perform a function of generating an aerosol by converting the phase of the aerosol generating material in the cartridge 20 into a gas phase. The term "aerosol" can refer to a gas in which vaporized particles generated from the aerosol generating material are mixed with air.

[0032] For example, in response to an electrical signal from the main body 10, the cartridge 20 can heat the aerosol generating material by using an ultrasonic vibration method or an induction heating method to convert the phase of the aerosol generating material. In another example, the cartridge 20 can include its own power supply and can operate to generate an aerosol in response to an electrical control signal or a wireless signal received from the main body 10.

[0033] The cartridge 20 can include a liquid reservoir 21 in which an aerosol generating material is accommodated, and an atomizer that performs a function of converting the aerosol generating material in the liquid reservoir 21 into an aerosol.

[0034] When the liquid reservoir 21 "accommodates an aerosol generating material" therein, it includes both a case in which the liquid reservoir 21 functions as a container that simply contains the aerosol generating material and a case in which the liquid reservoir 21 contains an element such as a sponge, cotton, fabric, or porous ceramic structure impregnated with, i.e., containing, the aerosol generating material therein.

[0035] For example, the atomizer can include a wick for absorbing the aerosol generating material and maintaining it in an optimal state so as to be converted into an aerosol, and a heater for heating the wick to generate an aerosol.

[0036] For example, the wick can include at least one of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0037] The heater can include a metallic material such as copper, nickel, or tungsten to heat the aerosol generating material delivered to the wick by using electrical resistance to generate heat. The heater can be implemented as, for example, a metallic wire, a metallic plate, a ceramic heating element, etc., or can be implemented as a conductive filament using a material such as a nichrome wire. The heater can be wound around the wick or disposed adjacent to the wick.

[0038] The atomizer can be implemented as a heating element in the form of a mesh or a plate that performs both a function of absorbing the aerosol generating material and maintaining it in an optimal state so as to be converted into an aerosol without using a separate wick and a function of heating the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol.

[0039] At least a portion of the liquid reservoir 21 of the cartridge 20 can include a transparent material so that the aerosol generating material accommodated in the cartridge 20 can be visually identified from the outside. The liquid reservoir 21 can include a protruding window 21a that protrudes from the liquid reservoir 21 so as to be inserted into the groove 11 in the main body 10 when the liquid reservoir 21 is coupled to the main body 10. The mouthpiece 22 and the liquid reservoir 21 can be entirely made of a transparent plastic or glass. Alternatively, only the protruding window 21a that is a portion of the liquid reservoir 21 can be made of a transparent material.

[0040] The main body 10 can include a connection terminal 10t disposed in the accommodation space 19. When the liquid reservoir 21 of the cartridge 20 is inserted into the accommodation space 19 in the main body 10, the main body 10 can supply power to the cartridge 20 through the connection terminal 10t or can supply a signal related to the operation of the cartridge 20 to the cartridge 20.

[0041] The mouthpiece 22 can be coupled to one end of the liquid reservoir 21 of the cartridge 20. The mouthpiece 22 can be a portion of the aerosol generating device 100 that is inserted into the user's mouth. The mouthpiece 22 can have a discharge hole 22a formed therein to discharge the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material in the liquid reservoir 21 to the outside.

[0042] The slider 7 can be coupled to the main body 10 in a movable manner with respect to the main body 10. The slider 7 can be used to cover or expose at least a portion of the mouthpiece 22 of the cartridge 20 coupled to the main body 10 by moving with respect to the main body 10. The slider 7 can have an elongated hole 7a formed therein to expose at least a portion of the protruding window 21a of the cartridge 20 to the outside.

[0043] The slider 7 can have the shape of a hollow container with both ends open. However, the structure of the slider 7 is not limited to the shape of the hollow container shown in the drawings. For example, the slider 7 can have the structure of a curved plate including a clip-shaped cross section that is movable with respect to the main body 10 while being coupled to the edge of the main body 10, or can have the structure of a curved semicircular cylinder including a curved arc-shaped cross section.

[0044] The slider 7 can include a magnet for maintaining the position of the slider 7 with respect to the main body 10 and the cartridge 20. The magnet can include a permanent magnet or a material such as iron, nickel, cobalt, or an alloy thereof.

[0045] The magnet can include two first magnets 8a facing each other with an inner space in the slider 7 interposed therebetween and two second magnets 8b facing each other with an inner space in the slider 7 interposed therebetween. The first magnets 8a can be disposed to be spaced apart from the second magnets 8b in the direction in which the slider 7 moves, that is, in the longitudinal direction of the main body 10 in which the main body 10 extends.

[0046] The main body 10 can include a fixed magnet 9 disposed along the route along which the first magnets 8a and the second magnets 8b of the slider 7 move as the slider 7 moves with respect to the main body 10. The main body 10 can include a plurality of fixed magnets 9 disposed so as to face each other with the accommodation space 19 interposed therebetween.

[0047] The slider 7 can be stably maintained at a position where the slider 7 covers the end of the mouthpiece 22 or exposes the end of the mouthpiece 22 by a magnetic force acting between the fixed magnet 9 and the first magnet 8a or between the fixed magnet 9 and the second magnet 8b according to a change in the position of the slider 7.

[0048] The main body 10 can include a position change detection sensor 3 for sensing a change in the position of the slider 7. The position change detection sensor 3 can be disposed along a route along which the first magnet 8a and the second magnet 8b of the slider 7 move as the slider 7 moves relative to the main body 10.

[0049] The position change detection sensor 3 can sense magnetization of a magnetic material or a change in the direction or strength of a magnetic field. The position change detection sensor 3 can be, for example, a Hall effect sensor, a rotating coil, a magnetoresistor, or a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0050] In the aerosol generating device 100 according to the above-described embodiment, a cross-sectional shape of each of the main body 10, the cartridge 20, and the slider 7 when viewed from a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction thereof can be a substantially rectangular shape including two long sides extending along surfaces facing each other and two short sides shorter than the long sides and interconnecting both ends of one of the long sides and both ends of the other of the long sides. However, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular shape of the aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 can have, for example, a circular, elliptical, square, or any other polygonal cross-sectional shape.

[0051] In addition, the aerosol generating device 100 is not necessarily limited to a structure extending linearly in the longitudinal direction. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 can be elongated while being curved in a streamline shape or at a predetermined angle at a particular portion thereof so as to be easily held by a user.

[0052] Referring to Figure 2 When the slider 7 moves to a position where the end of the mouthpiece 22 is covered (hereinafter referred to as a "first position") in a state in which the cartridge 20 is coupled to the main body 10, the mouthpiece 22 can be safely protected from external foreign matter and can be kept clean by the slider 7.

[0053] The user can check the remaining amount of the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge 20 by visually checking the protruding window 21a of the cartridge 20 through the elongated hole 7a in the slider 7.

[0054] Referring to Figure 3When the slider 7 is moved to a position in which the end of the mouthpiece 22 is exposed to the outside in a state in which the cartridge 20 is coupled to the main body 10 (hereinafter referred to as a "second position"), the end of the mouthpiece 22 can be inserted into the user's mouth, and the user can inhale the aerosol discharged through the discharge hole 22a in the mouthpiece 22.

[0055] Since the protruding window 21a of the cartridge 20 is still exposed to the outside through the elongated hole 7a in the slider 7 when the slider 7 is moved to the second position, the user can visually check the remaining amount of the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge 20.

[0056] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The atomizer included in the cartridge 20 can include a wick 40 that absorbs an aerosol generating material, a heater 50 that heats the aerosol generating material absorbed in the wick 40, and / or a lower cap 30 that supports the wick 40 and the heater 50 and forms a chamber 49.

[0057] The wick 40 can be maintained in a state in which the aerosol generating material is absorbed therein. When the wick 40 is heated by the heater 50, the aerosol generating material absorbed in the wick 40 can be vaporized to generate an aerosol.

[0058] The structure of the lower cap 30, the wick 40, and / or the heater 50 shown in the drawings is merely illustrative, and can be modified in various other forms. For example, the heater 50 can be disposed adjacent to the wick 40, instead of being wound around the wick 40, or can be inserted into the wick 40. For example, the wick 40 can be formed in the shape of a mesh or a plate. For example, the wick 40 and the heater 50 can be integrated as one assembly (e.g., a mesh-shaped heater made of a metal material).

[0059] The mouthpiece 22 can be coupled to one end of the liquid reservoir 21, and the lower cap 30 can be coupled to the other end of the liquid reservoir 21. The lower cap 30 can not only serve to support the wick 40 and the heater 50, but also serve to seal the other end of the liquid reservoir 21. The lower cap 30 can include support protrusions 30p formed on the upper end thereof to support both ends of the wick 40.

[0060] The lower cap 30 can be inserted into the other end of the liquid reservoir 21. A sealing ring 39 can be disposed between the lower cap 30 and the liquid reservoir 21. For example, the sealing ring 39 can be made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone.

[0061] The lower cap 30 can include an air passage 31 for delivering air to the chamber 49. The air passing through the air passage 31 in the lower cap 30 can be supplied to the wick 40 disposed in the chamber 49.

[0062] The delivery tube 60 can be disposed inside the liquid store 21 to facilitate connection of the chamber 49 to the discharge hole 22a in the mouthpiece 22. The aerosol generated in the chamber 49 can be delivered to the discharge hole 22a through the delivery tube 60. For example, one end of the delivery tube 60 can be connected to the chamber 49, and the other end of the delivery tube 60 can be connected to the discharge hole 22a in the mouthpiece 22.

[0063] Although the delivery tube 60 is exemplified in the drawings as being disposed along a central axis of the liquid store 21 in a longitudinal direction in which the liquid store 21 extends, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the delivery tube 60 can be disposed to be biased toward an edge of the liquid store 21.

[0064] The pressing portion 70 can be disposed between the delivery tube 60 and the wick 40. The pressing portion 70 can be disposed between an end of the delivery tube 60 facing the chamber 49 and the wick 40 to press the wick 40 in a downward direction.

[0065] The sealing ring 39 can be disposed between the lower cap 30 and the pressing portion 70.

[0066] The pressing portion 70 can include a connection tube 71 that surrounds one end of the delivery tube 60 and connects the one end of the delivery tube 60 to the chamber 49.

[0067] The liquid store 21 can include a support tube 21s that surrounds the other end of the delivery tube 60 inside the liquid store 21 and connects the other end of the delivery tube 60 to the discharge hole 22a.

[0068] The delivery tube 60 can include flanges 61 and 62 formed at both ends thereof. The flanges 61 and 62 can protrude outward from an outer surface of the delivery tube 60. The delivery tube 60 can be safely supported between the chamber and the discharge hole 22a by the flanges 61 and 62 formed at both ends thereof.

[0069] The pressing portion 70 can include a contact portion 72 that extends from an outer side of the connection tube 71 toward the wick 40 to be in contact with the wick 40, and a material delivery hole 73 that is opened outside the contact portion 72 in an upward direction to facilitate delivery of the aerosol generating material contained in the liquid store 21 to the wick 40.

[0070] The wick 40 can be formed in a cylindrical shape, and a surface of the contact portion 72 that is in contact with the wick 40 can have a curved shape corresponding to a shape of an outer surface of the wick 40.

[0071] A terminal 21t for electrically connecting to the main body 10 can be provided at a lower end of the liquid reservoir 21 of the cartridge 20 so as to be exposed to the outside. For example, the terminal 21t can be mounted to a lower end portion of the lower cap 30. The terminal 21t can be provided in a manner exposed to the outside of the lower cap 30. Power supplied from the main body 10 can be transmitted to the heater 50 through the terminal 21t. The terminal 21t can include a coupling tube 21p which protrudes toward the chamber 49 through a terminal passage 36 in the lower cap 30. The coupling tube 21p can be securely coupled to an end portion of the heater 50.

[0072] Figure 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0073] Referring to Figure 6 The aerosol-generating device 100 can include a communication interface 110, an input / output interface 120, an aerosol-generating module 130, a storage 140, a sensor module 150, a battery 160, and / or a controller 170.

[0074] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating device 100 can be composed of the main body 10 and the cartridge 20. In this case, components included in the aerosol-generating device 100 can be located in at least one of the main body 10 or the cartridge 20.

[0075] The communication interface 110 can include at least one communication module for communicating with an external device and / or a network. For example, the communication interface 110 can include a communication module for wired communication (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB)). For example, the communication interface 110 can include a communication module for wireless communication (e.g., wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), ZigBee, or near field communication (NFC)).

[0076] The input / output interface 120 can include an input device (not shown) for receiving a command from a user and / or an output device (not shown) for outputting information to the user. For example, the input device can include a touch panel, a physical button, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device can include a display device (e.g., a display or a light emitting diode (LED)) for outputting visual information, an audio device (e.g., a speaker or a buzzer) for outputting audible information, a motor for outputting tactile information such as a haptic effect, etc.

[0077] The input / output interface 120 can transmit data corresponding to a command input by a user through an input device to another component (or other component) of the aerosol-generating device 100. The input / output interface 120 can output information corresponding to data received from another component (or other component) of the aerosol-generating device 100 through an output device.

[0078] The aerosol-generating module 130 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance. Here, the aerosol-generating substance can be a liquid, solid, or gel substance capable of generating an aerosol, or a combination of two or more aerosol-generating substances.

[0079] According to an embodiment, the liquid aerosol-generating substance can be a liquid including a tobacco-containing material having a volatile tobacco flavor component. According to another embodiment, the liquid aerosol-generating substance can be a liquid including a non-tobacco material. For example, the liquid aerosol-generating substance can include water, a solvent, nicotine, a plant extract, a flavoring, a flavoring agent, a vitamin mixture, etc.

[0080] The solid aerosol-generating substance can include a solid material based on a tobacco raw material such as reconstituted tobacco sheet, tobacco shreds, or granular tobacco. In addition, the solid aerosol-generating substance can include a solid material having a taste control agent and a flavoring material. For example, the taste control agent can include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, etc. For example, the flavoring material can include a natural material such as herb particles, or can include a material containing an aromatic component (e.g., silicon dioxide, zeolite, or dextrin.

[0081] In addition, the aerosol-generating substance can further include an aerosol former such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0082] The aerosol-generating module 130 can include at least one heater (not shown).

[0083] The aerosol-generating module 130 can include an electric resistance heater. For example, the electric resistance heater can include at least one electrically conductive track. The electric resistance heater can be heated as an electric current flows through the electrically conductive track. At this time, the aerosol-generating substance can be heated by the heated electric resistance heater.

[0084] The electrically conductive track can include an electrically resistive material. In one example, the electrically conductive track can be formed of a metal material. In another example, the electrically conductive track can be formed of a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

[0085] The electric resistance heater can include an electrically conductive track formed in any one of various shapes. For example, the electrically conductive track can be formed in a coil shape.

[0086] The aerosol-generating module 130 can include a heater using an induction heating method. For example, the induction heater can include an electrically conductive coil. The induction heater can generate an alternating magnetic field that periodically changes direction by adjusting a current flowing through the electrically conductive coil. At this time, when the alternating magnetic field is applied to the magnet, energy loss can occur in the magnet due to eddy current loss and magnetic hysteresis loss, and the lost energy can be released as heat energy. Accordingly, the aerosol-generating material disposed adjacent to the magnet can be heated. Here, an object that generates heat due to a magnetic field can be referred to as a susceptor.

[0087] In addition, the aerosol-generating module 130 can generate ultrasonic vibrations, thereby generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material.

[0088] The aerosol-generating device 100 can be referred to as a cartomizer, an atomizer, or a cartomizer.

[0089] The memory 140 can store programs for processing and controlling each signal in the controller 170, and can store processed data and data to be processed.

[0090] For example, the memory 140 can store applications designed to perform various tasks that can be processed by the controller 170. The memory 140 can selectively provide some of the stored applications in response to a request from the controller 170.

[0091] For example, the memory 140 can store data on the operation time of the aerosol-generating device 100, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and at least one power profile. Here, "puff" means the act of inhaling by a user. "Inhaling" means the act of bringing air or other substances into the mouth, nose, or lungs of a user through the mouth or nose of the user.

[0092] The memory 140 can include at least one of a volatile memory (for example, a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), or a synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM)), a non-volatile memory (for example, a flash memory), a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD).

[0093] The sensor module 150 can include at least one sensor.

[0094] For example, the sensor module 150 can include a sensor for sensing a puff (hereinafter referred to as a "puff sensor"). In this case, the puff sensor can be implemented as a proximity sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

[0095] For example, the sensor module 150 can include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a "temperature sensor") for sensing a temperature of a heater included in the aerosol-generating module 130 and a temperature of the aerosol-generating material. In this case, the heater included in the aerosol-generating module 130 can also function as the temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater can be a material having a predetermined temperature coefficient of resistance. The sensor module 150 can measure the resistance of the heater, which varies according to the temperature, thereby sensing the temperature of the heater.

[0096] For example, the sensor module 150 can include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a "cartridge detection sensor") for sensing the installation / dismounting of the cartridge 20.

[0097] In this case, the cartridge detection sensor can be implemented as an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance sensor, a resistance sensor, or a Hall sensor (or a Hall IC) using the Hall effect.

[0098] For example, the sensor module 150 can include a voltage sensor for sensing a voltage applied to a component (for example, the battery 160) disposed in the aerosol-generating device 100 and / or a current sensor for sensing a current.

[0099] For example, the sensor module 150 can include a sensor (for example, a position change detection sensor 3) for sensing the position of the slider 7. Figure 1

[0100] The battery 160 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol-generating device 100 under the control of the controller 170. The battery 160 can supply power to other components disposed in the aerosol-generating device 100. For example, the battery 160 can supply power to the communication module included in the communication interface 110, the output device included in the input / output interface 120, and the heater included in the aerosol-generating module 130.

[0101] The battery 160 can be a rechargeable battery or a primary battery. For example, the battery 160 can be a lithium ion (Li-ion) battery, a lithium polymer (Li-polymer) battery, or a lithium ion phosphate battery. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the battery 160 can be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, or the like.

[0102] ​The aerosol-generating device 100 can further include a battery protection circuit module (PCM) (not shown) as a circuit for protecting the battery 160. The battery protection circuit module (PCM) can be disposed adjacent to the upper surface of the battery. For example, to prevent overcharging and over-discharging of the battery 160, when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 160, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 160, or when an overcurrent flows through the battery 160, the battery protection circuit module (PCM) can cut off the electrical path to the battery 160.

[0103] The aerosol-generating device 100 can further include a charging terminal into which power supplied from the outside is input. For example, the charging terminal can be formed at one side of the main body 10 of the aerosol-generating device 100. The aerosol-generating device 100 can charge the battery 160 using power supplied through the charging terminal. In this case, the charging terminal can be a wired terminal for USB communication, a spring pin, or the like.

[0104] The aerosol-generating device 100 can further include a power supply terminal (not shown) into which power supplied from the outside is input. For example, a power supply cord can be connected to the power supply terminal disposed at one side of the main body 10 of the aerosol-generating device 100. The aerosol-generating device 100 can charge the battery 160 using power supplied through the power supply cord connected to the power supply terminal. In this case, the power supply terminal can be a wired terminal for USB communication.

[0105] The aerosol-generating device 100 can receive power supplied from the outside in a wireless manner through the communication interface 110. For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can receive power in a wireless manner using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication. The aerosol-generating device 100 can charge the battery 160 using power supplied in a wireless manner.

[0106] The controller 170 can control the overall operation of the aerosol-generating device 100. The controller 170 can be connected to each component disposed in the aerosol-generating device 100. The controller 170 can transmit and / or receive a signal to and / or from each component, thereby controlling the overall operation of each component.

[0107] The controller 170 can include at least one processor. The controller 170 can control the overall operation of the aerosol-generating device 100 using the processor included therein. Here, the processor can be a general-purpose processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor can be a special-purpose device such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or can be any one of other hardware-based processors.

[0108] The controller 170 can perform any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the controller 170 can perform any one of a plurality of functions (e.g., a preheating function, a heating function, a charging function, and a cleaning function) of the aerosol generating device 100 according to a state of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 100 and a user command received through the input / output interface 120.

[0109] The controller 170 can control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 100 based on data stored in the memory 140. For example, the controller 170 can control the supply of a predetermined amount of power from the battery 160 to the aerosol generating module 130 for a predetermined time based on data regarding a temperature profile stored in the memory 140.

[0110] The controller 170 can determine the occurrence or nonoccurrence of puffing using a puff sensor included in the sensor module 150. For example, the controller 170 can check a temperature change, a flow change, a pressure change, and a voltage change in the aerosol generating device 100 based on a value sensed by the puff sensor. The controller 170 can determine the occurrence or nonoccurrence of puffing based on the value sensed by the puff sensor.

[0111] The controller 170 can control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 100 according to the occurrence or nonoccurrence of puffing and / or the number of puffs. For example, upon determining that puffing has occurred, the controller 170 can perform control such that power is supplied to the heater.

[0112] The controller 170 can perform control such that power is supplied to the heater using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method or a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) method.

[0113] For example, the controller 170 can perform control such that a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and a predetermined duty ratio is supplied to the heater using the PWM method. In this case, the controller 170 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and the duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0114] For example, the controller 170 can determine a target temperature to be controlled based on a temperature profile. In this case, the controller 170 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater using a PID method that is a feedback control method using a difference between the temperature of the heater and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference with respect to time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference with respect to time.

[0115] Although the PWM method and the PID method are described as examples of a method of controlling the supply of power to the heater, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and any one of various control methods such as a proportional-integral (PI) method or a proportional-derivative (PD) method can be employed.

[0116] The controller 170 can perform control so that the supply of power to the heater is interrupted according to a predetermined condition. For example, the controller 170 can perform control so that the supply of power to the heater is interrupted when the cartridge 20 is detached, when the number of puffs reaches a predetermined maximum number of puffs, when a puff is not sensed during a predetermined period of time or more, or when the remaining capacity of the battery 160 is less than a predetermined value.

[0117] The controller 170 can calculate the remaining capacity with respect to the full charge capacity of the battery 160. For example, the controller 170 can calculate the remaining capacity of the battery 160 based on a value sensed by the voltage sensor and / or the current sensor included in the sensor module 150.

[0118] The controller 170 can determine whether the cartridge 20 is mounted to the main body 10 using a cartridge detection sensor. For example, the cartridge detection sensor can include a connection terminal 10t included in the main body 10. The controller 170 can determine whether the cartridge 20 is mounted to the main body 10 based on a current flowing through the connection terminal 10t.

[0119] The controller 170 can determine the position of the slider 7 using the position change detection sensor 3, and can change the mode according to the position of the slider 7. For example, when the slider 7 is moved from the first position to the second position, the controller 170 can set the mode of the aerosol generating device 100 to a preheating mode in which an operation related to a preheating function is performed. For example, when the slider 3 is moved from the second position to the first position, the controller 170 can set the mode of the aerosol generating device 100 to a standby mode in which the supply of power to the aerosol generating module 130 is interrupted.

[0120] Upon determining that the cartridge 20 has been mounted to the main body 10 using the cartridge detection sensor, the controller 170 can determine the position of the slider 7 using the position change detection sensor 3.

[0121] Figure 7 is a flowchart of an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to Figure 7The aerosol-generating device 100 can heat the heater 50 in operation S701. For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can control the components so that the heater 50 is supplied with a predetermined amount of power according to a predetermined temperature profile while the puffing sensor included in the sensor module 150 senses a puff.

[0123] The aerosol-generating device 100 can detect the temperature of the heater 50 in operation S702. For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can detect the temperature of the heater 50 based on the resistance value of the heater 50, which changes according to the temperature change.

[0124] The aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the detected temperature of the heater 50 is lower than a predetermined threshold temperature in operation S703. Here, the predetermined threshold temperature can be the lowest temperature at which the wick 40 can be carbonized by heating by the heater 50, regardless of whether the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 20 is depleted.

[0125] When the detected temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol-generating device 100 can interrupt the supply of power to the heater 50 in operation S704. That is, when the temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol-generating device 100 can stop the heating operation by the heater 50 to prevent carbonization of the wick 40.

[0126] When the detected temperature of the heater 50 is lower than the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the sensed number of puffs is equal to or greater than a predetermined number of puffs in operation S705. For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can count the number of puffs from the time when the first puff is sensed, and can determine whether the counted number of puffs is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of puffs.

[0127] The aerosol-generating device 100 can store the detected temperature of the heater 50 in the memory 140. For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can store, in the memory 140, the maximum value of the temperature of the heater 50 detected while the puff is sensed for each puffing section.

[0128] When the sensed number of puffs is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of puffs, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether it is necessary to change the predetermined threshold temperature in operation S706.

[0129] For example, when the difference between the predetermined threshold temperature and the maximum value of the temperature detected while the heater 50 is heated is equal to or less than a predetermined temperature difference, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine that it is necessary to change the threshold temperature.

[0130] For example, when a difference between the predetermined threshold temperature and a representative value (e.g., an average value or a median value) of the maximum values stored in the memory 140 is equal to or less than a predetermined temperature difference, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine that it is necessary to change the threshold temperature.

[0131] For example, among the maximum values stored in the memory 140, when the number of maximum values each of which differs from the predetermined threshold temperature by a predetermined temperature difference or less is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine that it is necessary to change the threshold temperature.

[0132] When it is necessary to change the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol-generating device 100 can change the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater 50 in operation S707.

[0133] For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can change the threshold temperature to the maximum value of the temperatures detected while the heater 50 is heated.

[0134] For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can change the threshold temperature to the maximum value among the maximum values stored in the memory 140.

[0135] For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can change the threshold temperature to a representative value (e.g., an average value of the maximum values) of the maximum values stored in the memory 140.

[0136] Even if the aerosol-generating device 100 is manufactured of the same material and to the same size (e.g., length or cross-sectional area), errors can occur in the manufacturing of components included in the aerosol-generating device 100 due to various factors. For example, when the degree to which the wick 40 is pressed by the presser 70 included in the cartridge 20 in the downward direction falls outside a reference range due to a manufacturing tolerance (e.g., when the degree to which the wick 40 is pressed by the presser 70 is greater than a predetermined reference), the amount of aerosol-generating material absorbed in the wick 40 per unit time can decrease.

[0137] When the aerosol-generating device 100 heats the heater 50 in response to the puffing without considering the manufacturing tolerance, the heater 50 can be heated in a state in which an insufficient amount of aerosol-generating material is absorbed in the wick 40. In this case, the temperature of the heater 50 can increase, and the wick 40 can dry faster and can thus be more easily carbonized than when a sufficient amount of aerosol-generating material is absorbed in the wick 40.

[0138] Referring to Figure 8As indicated by the curves 810, 820, and 830, even when the same amount of power is supplied to the heater 50 in order to heat the heater 50, the detected temperature of the heater 50 can vary due to manufacturing tolerances of the aerosol generating device 100. In consideration of these, the predetermined threshold temperature is changed based on the temperature of the heater 50, so that carbonization of the wick 40 due to manufacturing tolerances can be prevented.

[0139] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an operating method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Detailed descriptions of the contents which are the same as those described with reference to FIG. 9A will be omitted. Figure 7

[0140] The aerosol generating device 100 can monitor whether puffing is sensed using the puff sensor included in the sensor module 150 in operation S901.

[0141] When puffing is sensed, the aerosol generating device 100 can heat the heater 50 and can detect the temperature of the heater 50 in operation S902.

[0142] The aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether the detected temperature of the heater 50 is lower than a predetermined threshold temperature in operation S903.

[0143] When the detected temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol generating device 100 can adjust the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 based on a predetermined reference in operation S904. For example, when the detected temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol generating device 100 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 by a predetermined ratio (e.g., 10%).

[0144] After the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 is adjusted, the aerosol generating device 100 can detect the temperature of the heater 50 and can determine whether the temperature of the heater 50 is lower than the predetermined threshold temperature in operation S905.

[0145] When the temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold temperature even after the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 is adjusted, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine that the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge 20 has been consumed in operation S906, and can interrupt the supply of power to the heater 50.

[0146] When the detected temperature of the heater 50 is lower than the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether puffing is ended using the puff sensor included in the sensor module 150 in operation S907.

[0147] ​The aerosol-generating device 100 can heat the heater 50 until the end of the puffing, and can detect the temperature of the heater 50.

[0148] When the end of the puffing is sensed, the aerosol-generating device 100 can store, in the memory 140, a maximum value of the temperature of the heater 50 detected while the puffing is sensed, in operation S908.

[0149] The aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the number of puffs made by the user is less than a predetermined number of puffs, in operation S909. For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the number of puffs counted from the time when the first puff is sensed is less than a predetermined number of puffs (e.g., 5 times).

[0150] When the number of puffs sensed is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of puffs, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether it is necessary to change the predetermined threshold temperature, in operation S910.

[0151] When it is necessary to change the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol-generating device 100 can change the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater 50, in operation S911.

[0152] Figure 10 is a flowchart of an operation method of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Detailed descriptions of the same contents as those described with reference to Figure 7 and Figure 9 will be omitted.

[0153] With reference to Figure 10 , the aerosol-generating device 100 can measure the resistance value of the heater 50, in operation S1001. For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 can measure the resistance value of the heater 50 based on a result of measuring an electrical characteristic (e.g., voltage, current, or power) of the heater 50.

[0154] At this time, the aerosol-generating device 100 can measure the resistance value of the heater 50 before power is supplied to the heater 50 (i.e., before the heater 50 is heated). Since the resistance value of the heater 50 is related to the temperature of the heater 50, the resistance change of the heater 50 can be more accurately identified by measuring the resistance value before the heater 50 is heated, thereby improving the accuracy of the control of the heater 50.

[0155] The aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the measured resistance value of the heater 50 is within a predetermined valid range, in operation S1002. Here, the predetermined valid range can be a resistance value range in which the heater 50 can be normally heated to a target temperature based on the temperature curve stored in the memory 140.

[0156] When the measured resistance value of the heater 50 is within the predetermined effective range, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine a temperature profile corresponding to the measured resistance value of the heater 50 from among the plurality of temperature profiles stored in the memory 140 in operation S1003.

[0157] According to an embodiment, the plurality of temperature profiles stored in the memory can include power values supplied to the heater 50 to cause the temperature of the heater 50 to reach a target temperature within a predetermined amount of time from the time at which power is initially supplied to the heater 50, regardless of a change in the resistance value of the heater 50.

[0158] In an embodiment, the plurality of temperature profiles stored in the memory can include predetermined power values corresponding to a plurality of resistance values preset for the heater 50, respectively. For example, when the resistance value of the heater 50 is measured as a first resistance value, a temperature profile based on which a first amount of power is supplied to the heater 50 can be selected, and when the resistance value of the heater 50 is measured as a second resistance value, a temperature profile based on which a second amount of power is supplied to the heater 50 can be selected.

[0159] The relationship between the resistance value of the heater 50 and the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 can be stored in the form of a lookup table. When the resistance value of the heater 50 is measured, the aerosol-generating device 100 can refer to the lookup table to identify a power value associated with the resistance value, and can perform control to cause an amount of power corresponding to the identified power value to be supplied to the heater 50.

[0160] According to an embodiment, the preset power values included in each temperature profile can include a single power value set according to a detected inhalation. The inhalation can be counted during a heating operation period of one cycle in which a predetermined number of inhalations are repeated, or can be counted during the entire lifespan of the cartridge 20. For example, when the resistance value of the heater 50 is measured as a first resistance value, a temperature profile based on which a first amount of power is supplied when a first inhalation is detected, based on which a second amount of power is supplied when a second inhalation is detected, and based on which a third amount of power is supplied when a third inhalation is detected can be selected. When the resistance value of the heater 50 is measured as a second resistance value, a temperature profile based on which a fourth amount of power is supplied when a first inhalation is detected, based on which a fifth amount of power is supplied when a second inhalation is detected, and based on which a sixth amount of power is supplied when a third inhalation is detected can be selected.

[0161] The aerosol-generating device 100 can monitor whether suction is sensed using a puff sensor included in the sensor module 150 in operation S1004.

[0162] When the puff is sensed, the aerosol-generating device 100 can heat the heater 50 in operation S1005, and can detect the temperature of the heater 50.

[0163] The aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the detected temperature of the heater 50 is lower than a predetermined threshold temperature in operation S1006.

[0164] When the detected temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol-generating device 100 can adjust the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 based on a predetermined reference in operation S1007.

[0165] After the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 is adjusted, the aerosol-generating device 100 can detect the temperature of the heater 50 in operation S1008, and can determine whether the temperature of the heater 50 is lower than the predetermined threshold temperature.

[0166] When the measured resistance value of the heater 50 is not within the predetermined valid range, or when the temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold temperature even after the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 is adjusted, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 20 has been consumed in operation S1009, and can interrupt the supply of power to the heater 50.

[0167] When the detected temperature of the heater 50 is lower than the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the puff is ended using the puff sensor included in the sensor module 150 in operation S1010.

[0168] When the puff is ended, the aerosol-generating device 100 can store the maximum value of the temperature of the heater 50 detected while the puff is sensed in the memory 140 in operation S1011.

[0169] The aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether the number of puffs made by the user is less than a predetermined number of puffs in operation S1012.

[0170] When the sensed number of puffs is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of puffs, the aerosol-generating device 100 can determine whether it is necessary to change the predetermined threshold temperature in operation S1013.

[0171] When it is necessary to change the predetermined threshold temperature, the aerosol-generating device 100 can change the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater 50 in operation S1014.

[0172] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, even when the amount of the aerosol generating material absorbed in the wick 40 varies due to manufacturing tolerance, carbonization of the wick 40 due to heating by the heater 50 can be prevented.

[0173] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the heater 50 can be heated to a desired temperature regardless of a change in the resistance value of the heater 50 due to manufacturing tolerance.

[0174] Referring to Figures 1 to 10 , the aerosol generating device 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure can include a wick 40 configured to absorb an aerosol generating material, a heater 50 configured to heat the wick 40, a sensor configured to sense a puff, and a controller 170. The controller 170 can perform control to heat the heater 50 while the puff is sensed, and can detect a temperature of the heater 50. When the temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature, the controller 170 can interrupt the supply of power to the heater 50. When the temperature of the heater 50 is lower than the threshold temperature, the controller 170 can determine whether it is necessary to change the threshold temperature. When it is necessary to change the threshold temperature, the controller 170 can change the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater 50.

[0175] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the threshold temperature, the controller 170 can perform control to reduce the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 based on a predetermined reference. When the temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than the threshold temperature after the amount of power supplied to the heater 50 is reduced, the controller 170 can interrupt the supply of power to the heater 50.

[0176] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 170 can count the number of puffs from the time when the first puff is sensed. When the number of puffs is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference number, the controller 170 can determine whether it is necessary to change the threshold temperature.

[0177] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device can further include a memory 140. When the puff ends, the controller 170 can store a maximum value of the temperature of the heater 50 detected while the puff is sensed in the memory 140, and can change the threshold temperature based on the maximum value of the temperature of the heater 50 stored in the memory 140.

[0178] Also, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, among the maximum values corresponding to the number of puffs stored in the memory 140, when the number of maximum values in which each of them differs from the threshold temperature by a predetermined temperature difference or less is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the controller 170 can determine that it is necessary to change the threshold temperature.

[0179] Also, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 170 can change the threshold temperature to the maximum maximum value among the maximum values corresponding to the number of puffs stored in the memory 140.

[0180] Also, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 170 can change the threshold temperature to a representative value of the maximum values corresponding to the number of puffs stored in the memory 140.

[0181] Also, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device can further include a memory 140 configured to store a plurality of temperature profiles. The controller 170 can measure a resistance value of the heater 50 before supplying power to the heater 50, can determine a temperature profile corresponding to the measured resistance value from among the plurality of temperature profiles, and can perform control to heat the heater 50 according to the determined temperature profile.

[0182] Also, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the measured resistance value is not within a predetermined valid range, the controller 170 can interrupt the supply of power to the heater 50.

[0183] The operation method of the aerosol generating device 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure can include the steps of heating a heater 50 of the aerosol generating device to heat a wick 40 that absorbs an aerosol generating material while a puff is sensed, detecting a temperature of the heater 50, interrupting the supply of power to the heater 50 when the temperature of the heater 50 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature, determining whether it is necessary to change the threshold temperature when the temperature of the heater 50 is lower than the threshold temperature, and changing the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater 50 when it is necessary to change the threshold temperature.

[0184] Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or different from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be combined in configuration or function with another element or each other.

[0185] For example, configuration "A" described in one embodiment of the present disclosure and the accompanying drawings can be combined with configuration "B" described in another embodiment of the present disclosure and the accompanying drawings. That is, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except in the case where it is described that the combination is not possible.

[0186] While embodiments have been described with reference to numerous example embodiments, it will be understood that various other modifications can be made within the scope of the present disclosure. More specifically, various combinations of the constituent part and / or arrangement aspects of the subject combination arrangement are possible. In addition to variations and modifications in the combination and arrangement of parts, alternatives to the use of parts and / or arrangements will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a core configured to absorb the aerosol-generating substance; a heater configured to heat the core; a sensor configured to sense puffing of the aerosol generating device; as well as A controller configured to: executing control to heat the heater in response to the sensed puff, detecting the temperature of the heater, interrupting the supply of power to the heater based on the detected temperature of the heater being equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature, determining whether it is necessary to change the predetermined threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater being lower than the threshold temperature, and Based on a determination that a change in the predetermined threshold temperature is necessary, changing the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater, The predetermined threshold temperature is a temperature at which the core is carbonized.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Before interrupting the supply of power to the heater based on the detected temperature of the heater being equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature, the amount of power supplied to the heater is reduced based on a predetermined reference.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The determination of whether a change in the threshold temperature is necessary is based on the sensed number of puffs being greater than or equal to a predetermined reference number.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, further comprising: Memory, Wherein, the controller is configured as follows: storing in the memory a maximum value of the temperature of the heater detected while a puff is sensed, and wherein the threshold temperature is changed based on the maximum value of the temperature of the heater stored in the memory.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein The memory is configured to store a plurality of maximum values ​​corresponding to the sensed puffs, and The determination of whether it is necessary to change the threshold temperature is further based on the presence of at least a predetermined number of maximum values ​​among the plurality of maximum values ​​being different from the predetermined threshold temperature by a predetermined temperature difference or less.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein: The memory is configured to store a plurality of maximum values ​​corresponding to the sensed puffs, and the predetermined threshold temperature is changed to a largest maximum value among the stored plurality of maximum values.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein: The memory is configured to store a plurality of maximum values ​​corresponding to the sensed puffs, and the predetermined threshold temperature is changed to a representative value of the stored plurality of maximum values.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a memory configured to store a plurality of temperature profiles, Wherein, the controller is configured as follows: measuring the resistance value of the heater before supplying power to the heater, and determining a temperature curve corresponding to the measured resistance value from among a plurality of stored temperature curves, The heater is heated according to the determined temperature curve.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein: Based on the measured resistance value not being within a predetermined valid range, the controller is configured to interrupt the supply of power to the heater.

10. A method for operating an aerosol generating device, the method comprising the following steps: heating a heater of the aerosol-generating device in response to the sensed puff to heat a wick that absorbs an aerosol-generating substance; detecting a temperature of the heater; interrupting the supply of power to the heater based on the detected temperature of the heater being equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold temperature; determining whether it is necessary to change the predetermined threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater being lower than the threshold temperature; as well as Based on a determination that a change in the predetermined threshold temperature is necessary, changing the threshold temperature based on the detected temperature of the heater, The predetermined threshold temperature is a temperature at which the core is carbonized.

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