Aerosol generating device

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus may include: a containment space for containing an aerosol generating article; a heater for heating the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol; a transducer for outputting ultrasonic waves to the containment space, receiving reflected ultrasonic waves from the containment space, and generating an electrical signal corresponding to the received ultrasonic waves; and a processor for determining the type of aerosol generating article contained in the containment space based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer, and controlling the operation of the heater based on the determined type of aerosol generating article.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating apparatus that controls the operation of a heater based on information related to the aerosol generating article obtained through a transducer. Background Technology

[0002] As an alternative to the combustion of cigarettes to generate aerosols, there is an increasing demand for aerosol generating devices that generate aerosols in a non-combustible manner. An aerosol generating device is, for example, a device that generates aerosols from aerosol-generating substances in a non-combustible manner and supplies them to a user, or that uses vapor generated from aerosol-generating substances to pass through a flavoring medium to generate flavored aerosols.

[0003] An example of an aerosol generating apparatus may include an aerosol generating apparatus that contains a replaceable aerosol generating article and generates aerosols from the contained aerosol generating article. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0005] To increase user convenience, the aerosol generating device obtains information related to the aerosol generating item, such as the type of aerosol generated item or the amount of aerosol generated, and needs to control the operation of the heater differently based on the obtained information.

[0006] For example, depending on the type of aerosol-generating article, the amount or type of aerosol-generating substance contained within the aerosol-generating article may vary. Therefore, it is necessary for the aerosol generating apparatus to control the heater differently depending on the type of aerosol-generating article. As another example, it is necessary for the aerosol generating apparatus to control the heating action of the heater differently depending on the amount of aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating article.

[0007] However, in order to obtain information related to aerosol-generating articles, such as the type or quantity of aerosols, and when multiple sensors are included in the aerosol generating device, the constraints that need to be considered during the design process increase in order for each sensor to perform its function properly.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for an aerosol generating device that can obtain comprehensive information related to aerosol-generating articles without having multiple sensors.

[0009] An embodiment provides an aerosol generating apparatus that acquires information related to the aerosol generating article by using a transducer and controls the operation of a heater based on the acquired information.

[0010] The problems to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to those described above. For problems not mentioned, those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain can clearly understand them from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0011] means for solving problems

[0012] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may include: a containment space for containing an aerosol generating article; a heater for heating the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol; a transducer for outputting ultrasonic waves to the containment space, receiving reflected ultrasonic waves from the containment space, and generating an electrical signal corresponding to the received ultrasonic waves; and a processor for determining the type of aerosol generating article contained in the containment space based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer, and controlling the operation of the heater based on the determined type of aerosol generating article.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] The aerosol generating apparatus associated with the embodiments can control the operation of the heater based on information related to the aerosol generating article obtained through the transducer.

[0015] Therefore, aerosol generating devices can control the heater to suit the type or state of the aerosol generating article contained therein, and provide users with aerosols with excellent flavor.

[0016] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above. For effects not mentioned, those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain can clearly understand them from this specification and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figures 1 to 3 This is a diagram showing an example of inserting an aerosol-generating article into an aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing several examples of aerosol-generating articles.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an aerosol generating apparatus.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining the type of aerosol-generating article using an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining whether an aerosol-generating article is to be reused in an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining the amount of aerosol generated in a containment space using an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining whether the amount of aerosol generated in a containment space is uniform, which is used to explain an embodiment of an aerosol generating apparatus.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The terminology used in the embodiments has been selected as widely used and common terms as possible, taking into account the functionality of the invention. However, these terms may be changed based on the intent of those skilled in the art, precedents, or the emergence of new technologies. Furthermore, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily choose some terms; in such cases, the meaning of the selected terms will be described in detail in the corresponding description of the invention. Therefore, the terminology used in this invention should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the invention, and not simply on the names of the terms.

[0026] Throughout this specification, the phrase "includes" a component means that, unless otherwise described, that part may also include other components, not that it excludes other components. Furthermore, the terms "part," "module," etc., used in this specification refer to a unit that performs at least one function or action, which can be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0027] Throughout the specification, the “length direction” of a constituent element can refer to the direction in which the constituent element extends along a directional axis of the constituent element. In this case, the directional axis of the constituent element can refer to the direction in which the length of the constituent element extending along that directional axis is longer than the length of another directional axis that crosses the directional axis.

[0028] As used in this specification, expressions such as "at least one" modify the entire constituent element rather than the individual constituent elements of the arrangement when placed before the constituent elements of the arrangement. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b and c" should be understood to include "a", "b", and "c"; "a and b", "a and c", "b and c"; or "a, b, and c".

[0029] Throughout this specification, the terms "embodiments" are randomly assigned to illustrate the disclosures herein, and the embodiments are not mutually exclusive. For example, a structure disclosed in one embodiment may be applied and implemented in other embodiments, in which case it may be modified, applied, and implemented without departing from the scope of this specification.

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can readily implement the invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, but can be implemented in various different ways.

[0031] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figures 1 to 3 The diagram shows several examples of aerosol-generating articles inserted into an aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0033] Reference Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 100 includes a battery 110, a processor 120, and a heater 130.

[0034] Reference Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 100 also includes a vaporizer 140. Furthermore, the internal space of the aerosol generating device 100 can accommodate an aerosol generating article 200.

[0035] Figures 1 to 3 The aerosol generating apparatus 100 shown herein illustrates the constituent elements relevant to this embodiment. Therefore, those skilled in the art related to this embodiment will understand that the aerosol generating apparatus 100 may also include, in addition to... Figure 1 as well as Figure 3 Other commonly used constituent elements besides those shown in the diagram.

[0036] In addition, although in Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The aerosol generating apparatus 100 shown includes a heater 130, but the heater 130 may be omitted depending on the requirements.

[0037] Figure 1 The image shows battery 110, processor 120, and heater 130 arranged in a row. Additionally, Figure 2 The image shows battery 110, processor 120, carburetor 140, and heater 130 arranged in a row. Additionally, Figure 3 The vaporizer 140 and heater 130 are shown arranged side by side. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to... Figures 1 to 3 As shown. In other words, the configuration of the battery 110, processor 120, heater 130, and vaporizer 140 can be changed according to the design of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0038] When the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating device 100 activates the heater 130 and / or vaporizer 140, thereby generating aerosols from the aerosol generating article 200 and / or vaporizer 140. The aerosols generated by the heater 130 and / or vaporizer 140 are then delivered to the user via the aerosol generating article 200.

[0039] If necessary, the aerosol generating device 100 can heat the heater 130 even if the aerosol generating article 200 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 100.

[0040] Battery 110 supplies power to operate the aerosol generating apparatus 100. For example, battery 110 can supply power to heat heater 130 or vaporizer 140, and can supply power required for operation to processor 120. In addition, battery 110 can supply power required for operation to displays, sensors, motors, etc. installed in the aerosol generating apparatus 100.

[0041] The processor 120 provides overall control over the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. Specifically, the processor 120 controls not only the battery 110, heater 130, and vaporizer 140, but also the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 100. Furthermore, the processor 120 can also check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 100 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is in a state where it can operate.

[0042] Processor 120 includes at least one processor. The processor can be implemented using multiple logic gate arrays, or it can be implemented using a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing programs that can be executed by the microprocessor. Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains, it can also be implemented using other forms of hardware.

[0043] The heater 130 can be heated by electricity supplied by the battery 110. For example, when the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the heater 130 can be located outside the aerosol generating article 200. Therefore, the heated heater 130 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substance inside the aerosol generating article 200.

[0044] Heater 130 can be a resistance heater. For example, heater 130 includes a conductive track, and heater 130 can be heated when current flows in the conductive track. However, heater 130 is not limited to the above example, and there are no special limitations as long as it can heat to the desired temperature. The desired temperature may be set in the aerosol generating device 100 or may be set by the user.

[0045] On the one hand, as another example, heater 130 can be an induction heating heater. Specifically, heater 130 may include a conductive coil for induction heating of the aerosol generating article, which may include a susceptor capable of being heated by the induction heating heater.

[0046] For example, heater 130 may include tubular heating elements, plate heating elements, needle heating elements, or rod heating elements, which can heat the interior or exterior of aerosol generating article 200 depending on the shape of the heating elements.

[0047] Additionally, multiple heaters 130 may be configured in the aerosol generating apparatus 100. These heaters 130 may be configured to be inserted inside the aerosol generating article 200, or they may be configured to be located outside the aerosol generating article 200. Furthermore, some of the heaters 130 may be configured to be inserted inside the aerosol generating article 200, while the remaining heaters may be located outside the aerosol generating article 200. The shape of the heaters 130 is not limited to... Figures 1 to 3 The shape shown can also be made into many other shapes.

[0048] The vaporizer 140 generates an aerosol by heating a liquid composition, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user via the aerosol generating article 200. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 140 can move along the airflow passage of the aerosol generating device 100, and the airflow passage can be configured to deliver the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 140 to the user via the aerosol generating article 200.

[0049] For example, the vaporizer 140 may include a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer unit, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer unit, and the heating element may be included as independent modules in the aerosol generating apparatus 100.

[0050] The liquid storage unit can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing tobacco substances including volatile tobacco flavor components, or it can be a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage unit can be made to be detachable from or installed on the vaporizer 140, or it can be integrated with the vaporizer 140.

[0051] 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 fruit 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. Additionally, the liquid composition may include aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0052] The liquid transfer unit is capable of transferring the liquid composition from the liquid storage section to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer unit can be a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but is not limited to these.

[0053] A heating element is a component used to heat a liquid composition transferred by a liquid transfer unit. For example, the heating element can be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited to these. Alternatively, the heating element can be made of a conductive heating wire such as nickel-chromium wire, and can be configured to be wound around the liquid transfer unit. The heating element can be heated by a supplied current and transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0054] For example, the vaporizer 140 may also be referred to as an electronic cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited to these terms.

[0055] On one hand, the aerosol generating device 100 may also include other common components besides the battery 110, processor 120, heater 130, and vaporizer 140. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Additionally, the aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one sensor (suction sensor, temperature sensor, aerosol generating article insertion detection sensor, etc.). Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 100 may be configured to allow external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted.

[0056] Although Figures 1 to 3 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 100 can be configured as a system with a separately provided bracket. For example, the bracket can be used to charge the battery 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. Alternatively, the heater 130 can be heated while the bracket and the aerosol generating device 100 are combined.

[0057] The aerosol-generating article 200 can be similar to a regular combustible cigarette. For example, the aerosol-generating article 200 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 200 may also include an aerosol-generating substance. For example, an aerosol-generating substance made in the form of granules or capsules can be inserted into the second part.

[0058] The entire first part can be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device 100, while the second part can be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, a portion of the first part, the entire first part, and a portion of the second part can be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. At this time, external air passes through the first part to generate aerosol, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth via the second part.

[0059] As an example, external air can flow in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 100 and / or the size of the air passage can be adjusted by the user. Thus, the user can adjust the amount of vaporization, the sensation of inhalation, etc. As another example, external air can flow into the interior of the aerosol generating article 200 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0060] The following is for reference Figure 4 Several examples of 200 aerosol-generating articles will be explained.

[0061] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing several examples of aerosol-generating articles.

[0062] Reference Figure 4 The aerosol-generating article 200 includes a tobacco stick 210 and a filter stick 220. (See reference...) Figures 1 to 3 The first part of the description includes a tobacco stick 210, and the second part includes a filter stick 220.

[0063] Figure 4 The filter rod 220 is shown as a single-segment structure, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 220 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 220 may include a first segment for cooling aerosols and a second segment for filtering specified components included in the aerosols. In addition, depending on the requirements, the filter rod 220 may also include at least one segment that performs other functions.

[0064] The aerosol generating article 200 is wrapped with at least one wrapping paper 240. The wrapping paper 240 may have at least one hole for external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out. As an example, the aerosol generating article 200 may be wrapped with a single wrapping paper 240. As another example, the aerosol generating article 200 may be wrapped with two or more overlapping wrapping papers 240. For example, a tobacco stick 210 is wrapped with a first wrapping paper 241, and a filter stick 220 is wrapped with multiple wrapping papers 242, 243, and 244. Furthermore, the entire aerosol generating article 200 may be re-wrapped with a single wrapping paper 245. If the filter stick 220 is composed of multiple segments, each segment may be wrapped with multiple wrapping papers 242, 243, and 244.

[0065] The tobacco stick 210 includes an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include at least one of glycerol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the tobacco stick 210 may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, flavoring liquids such as menthol or humectants may be added to the tobacco stick 210 by spraying.

[0066] The tobacco stick 210 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco stick 210 can be made of sheet material or strand material. Alternatively, the tobacco stick 210 can be made from tobacco leaves obtained by slicing tobacco sheets into small pieces. Furthermore, the tobacco stick 210 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but it is not limited to this. As an example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco stick 210 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco stick 210, thereby increasing the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco stick and thus improving the flavor of the tobacco. Additionally, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco stick 210 can function as a base heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown in the figure, the tobacco stick 210 may include other bases besides the heat-conducting material surrounding it.

[0067] The filter rod 220 can be a cellulose acetate filter. On the one hand, the shape of the filter rod 220 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 220 can be a cylindrical rod, or it can be a tubular rod with a hollow interior. Additionally, the filter rod 220 can be a semi-concealed rod. If the filter rod 220 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments can be made into a different shape.

[0068] The filter rod 220 can be made to generate fragrance. For example, a fragrance liquid can be sprayed into the filter rod 220, or additional fibers coated with the fragrance liquid can be inserted into the interior of the filter rod 220.

[0069] Additionally, the filter rod 220 may include at least one capsule 230. The capsule 230 may function to generate fragrance or aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 may be a structure that encapsulates a liquid containing fragrance within a membrane. The capsule 230 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to these.

[0070] If the filter rod 220 includes a section for cooling aerosols, the cooling section may be made of a polymer or a biodegradable polymer. For example, the cooling section may be made of pure polylactic acid, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the cooling section may be made of a cellulose acetate filter with multiple pores. However, the cooling section is not limited to the above examples; it is only necessary to perform the function of cooling aerosols, and there are no particular restrictions.

[0071] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an aerosol generating apparatus.

[0072] Reference Figure 5 The aerosol generating apparatus 100 associated with one embodiment may include a processor 120, a heater 130, a memory 150, a housing space 160, and a transducer 170. Figure 5 The processor 120 and heater 130 can essentially be with Figures 1 to 3 The processor 120 and heater 130 are the same, therefore the details will be omitted. Figures 1 to 3 Duplicate content. Also... Figure 5 The aerosol-generating items 200 can essentially be related to Figures 1 to 4 The aerosol-generating item 200 is the same, therefore the similarity will be omitted. Figures 1 to 4 Duplicate content.

[0073] The memory 150 serves as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generating device 100. The memory 150 can store data already processed by the processor 120, as well as data to be processed. For example, the memory 150 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 100, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data on the user's smoking pattern.

[0074] The memory 150 can be implemented in various types, such as random access memory (RAM) including dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.

[0075] The receiving space 160 can be a space that receives the aerosol generating article 200 in a manner that allows for the removability of the aerosol generating article 200. For example, to inhale the aerosol, a user can insert the aerosol generating article 200 into the receiving space 160, and after the aerosol inhalation is complete, the aerosol generating article 200 can be removed from the receiving space 160. On the one hand, the inclusion of the receiving space 160 in the aerosol generating device 100 means that the aerosol generating device 100 includes at least one housing or structure forming the receiving space 160.

[0076] The heater 130 can be configured to surround at least a portion of the receiving space 160. Therefore, with the aerosol generating article 200 contained within the receiving space 160, the heater 130 can surround the outer side of the aerosol generating article 200. On one hand, in Figure 5 The diagram shows the shape of the heater 130 surrounding the outer side of the aerosol generating article 200, but is not limited thereto; the heater 130 may be a shape in which at least a portion is inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0077] The transducer 170 can generate an electrical signal corresponding to the received ultrasonic waves by outputting ultrasonic waves to the housing space 160 and receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the housing space 160.

[0078] As an example, transducer 170 may include a piezoelectric element. A piezoelectric element can be a material that generates physical vibrations when an electric current is applied, and is capable of converting these physical vibrations into electrical signals. Therefore, when a battery (e.g., Figures 1 to 4 When power from battery 110 is applied to transducer 170, ultrasonic waves can be generated by piezoelectric elements. The ultrasonic waves generated from transducer 170 propagate towards the receiving space 160 and can be reflected to the inner wall of the receiving space 160 or to an object contained within the receiving space 160, thus being received again by transducer 170. The piezoelectric elements can vibrate due to the ultrasonic waves received by transducer 170, thereby generating electrical signals.

[0079] For example, transducer 170 can generate an electrical signal by simultaneously outputting ultrasonic waves to the receiving space 160 and receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the receiving space 160, but is not limited thereto. As another example, when the output of ultrasonic waves is stopped for a specified time, transducer 170 can receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the receiving space 160 to generate an electrical signal.

[0080] The transducer 170 can be spaced apart from the heater 130 along the length of the aerosol generating device 100. Therefore, the effect of the heat generated by the heater 130 on the transducer 170 is reduced, and the transducer 170 can successfully receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the housing space 160 even during the operation of the heater 130.

[0081] The transducer 170 can be positioned adjacent to the receiving space 160 to output ultrasonic waves into the receiving space 160 and to smoothly receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the receiving space 160. For example, with the aerosol generating article 200 contained in the receiving space 160, the transducer 170 can be in direct contact with the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200, or it can be adjacent to the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200 but separated from it by a slight gap.

[0082] The processor 120 can determine whether the aerosol generating article 200 is contained in the containment space 160 based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170. In addition, when the processor 120 determines that the aerosol generating article 200 is contained in the containment space 160, the heater 130 can be started even without the operation of another user.

[0083] As an example, when the transducer 170 is outputting ultrasonic waves to the containment space 160, if the containment space 160 contains the aerosol-generating article 200, the intensity of the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170 can be changed. Therefore, the processor 120 can determine whether the aerosol-generating article 200 is contained in the containment space 160 based on the change in the intensity of the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170.

[0084] As another example, the processor 120 can determine whether the aerosol generating article 200 is contained in the containment space 160 by comparing at least one of the strength, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170 with at least one of the strength, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal stored in the memory 150.

[0085] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining the type of aerosol-generating article using an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 6 The processor 120, heater 130, housing 160, and transducer 170 can essentially be connected with Figure 5 The processor 120, heater 130, housing 160, and transducer 170 are identical, therefore the following will be omitted. Figure 5 Repeated explanation.

[0086] On the one hand, as an example, the types of aerosol generating articles 200 can be distinguished according to the amount or type of aerosol generating substances contained therein. Depending on the amount or type of aerosol generating substances, the suitable heating temperature or heating time will be different, therefore preferably, the aerosol generating articles 200 are heated according to different types.

[0087] In one embodiment, the processor 120 can determine the type of aerosol generating article 200 contained in the containment space 160 based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170, and can control the operation of the heater 130 based on the determined type of aerosol generating article 200. For example, when the aerosol generating article 200 is contained in the containment space 160, the transducer 170 can generate an electrical signal by outputting ultrasonic waves to the containment space 160 and ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol generating article 200. The processor 120 can then compare the intensity, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170 with those stored in a memory (e.g., ...). Figure 5The type of aerosol generating article 200 contained in the containment space 160 is determined by comparing at least one of the strength, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal of the memory 150.

[0088] The ratio of ultrasonic waves reflected from the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200 in the ultrasonic waves output from the transducer 170 to the containing space 160 can be determined by the material or shape of the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200. When the material or shape of the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200 varies depending on the type of aerosol generating article 200, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 can easily determine the type of aerosol generating article 200 using the transducer 170.

[0089] The aerosol generating article 200 contained in the aerosol generating apparatus 100, as associated with one embodiment, may include an identifier 250. For example, the identifier 250 may be made of different materials or shapes depending on the type of aerosol generating article 200, so that the intensity of the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170 may vary depending on the type of aerosol generating article 200. Therefore, the processor 120 can readily determine the type of aerosol generating article 200 based on the intensity of the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170.

[0090] Identifier 250 can be used with the packaging paper on the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article 200 (e.g., Figure 4 The packaging paper 240 is made of different materials. For example, the material of identifier 250 may include, but is not limited to, metallic substances, polylactic acid (PLA) as a non-metallic substance, and plastics.

[0091] In one embodiment, the processor 120 can control the heater 130 to perform a heating operation according to a pre-set temperature profile corresponding to the determined type of aerosol generating article 200. The temperature profile may refer to the temperature change of the heater 130 or the aerosol generating article 200 over time or with the number of inhalations during a single smoking action using the aerosol generating article 200. For example, in a memory (e.g., Figure 5 The memory 150 may contain multiple temperature profiles corresponding to the types of aerosol generating articles 200. Therefore, the processor 120 can control the heater 130 to determine the type of aerosol generating article 200 and perform heating based on the temperature profile corresponding to the type of aerosol generating article 200 determined from the multiple temperature profiles stored in the memory.

[0092] In one embodiment, the processor 120 compares the determined type of aerosol generating article 200 with the types already stored in the aerosol generating device 100. If the determined type of aerosol generating article 200 differs from the types already stored in the aerosol generating device 100, the heater 130 can be controlled not to heat. For example, if the type of aerosol generating article 200 housed in the housing space 160 differs from the type stored in the memory (e.g., ...), ... Figure 5 Depending on the type of memory 150, the processor 120 can control the heater 130 so that the heater 130 is not heated.

[0093] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining whether an aerosol-generating article is to be reused in an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 7 The processor 120, heater 130, housing 160, and transducer 170 can essentially be connected with Figure 5 The processor 120, heater 130, housing 160, and transducer 170 are identical, therefore the following will be omitted. Figure 5 Repeated explanation.

[0094] For example, when the aerosol generating device 100 uses the aerosol generating article 200 to perform a smoking action, the aerosol generated within the aerosol generating article 200 will be depleted. In this case, the used aerosol generating article 200 should be discarded by the user. When the user reuses the used aerosol generating article 200, since at least a portion of the aerosol generated has been depleted, the user may not experience sufficient smoking satisfaction from the reused aerosol generating article 200. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article 200 contained in the containing space 160 is being reused, preferably, the aerosol generating device 100 controls the heater 130 to not heat it.

[0095] In one embodiment, the processor 120 determines whether the aerosol-generating article 200 is being reused based on an electrical signal generated by the transducer 170, and when it is determined that the aerosol-generating article 200 is being reused, it can control the heater 130 to stop heating.

[0096] For example, an aerosol generating article 200 that has been used more than once may include carbides (C) of the aerosol generating material of the tobacco stick 210 that have been deformed by the heat of the heater 130. Depending on the material, the degree of ultrasonic wave reflection varies; therefore, the degree to which ultrasonic waves are reflected from the aerosol generating article 200 differs depending on whether the aerosol generating article 200 includes carbides (C). Therefore, when comparing the case where the aerosol generating article 200 includes carbides (C) and the case where the aerosol generating article 200 does not include carbides (C), at least one of the intensity, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170 may differ. When at least one of the intensity, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170 is different from that stored in a memory (e.g., Figure 5 When at least one of the strength, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal in the memory 150 is different, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol generating article 200 contained in the containment space 160 is being reused. Furthermore, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article 200 is being reused, the processor 120 can control the heater 130 to stop heating.

[0097] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining the amount of aerosol generated in a containment space using an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 8 The processor 120, heater 130, housing 160, and transducer 170 can essentially be connected with Figure 5 The processor 120, heater 130, housing 160, and transducer 170 are identical, therefore the following will be omitted. Figure 5 Repeated explanation.

[0098] For example, the aerosol generating article 200 contained in the containing space 160 may be in an abnormal state, such as containing impurities or excessive moisture. In this case, since the amount of aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article 200 may differ from the normal amount, the aerosol generating device 100 can control the operation of the heater 130 by determining the amount of aerosol.

[0099] In one embodiment, the processor 120 can determine the amount of aerosol generated in the containment space 160 based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer 170, and can control the operation of the heater 130 based on the determined amount of aerosol.

[0100] When heater 130 begins heating, aerosol V can be generated from aerosol generating article 200. Before being inhaled by a user, the generated aerosol V can be located inside or outside aerosol generating article 200. Ultrasonic waves output from transducer 170 can be reflected from the aerosol V located inside or outside aerosol generating article 200. The greater the amount of aerosol V, the more ultrasonic waves are reflected from the aerosol V to transducer 170, and the stronger the electrical signal generated by transducer 170. Therefore, processor 120 can determine the amount of aerosol generated in containment space 160 based on the strength of the electrical signal generated by transducer 170.

[0101] On one hand, for example, the heater 130 can preheat the aerosol generating article 200 for a set time before the user inhales the aerosol. In this case, it is preferable that the aerosol generating article 200 can be preheated in a short time, so that the temperature of the heater 130 can be maintained at a higher level during the preheating period of the aerosol generating article 200 compared to the period during which the user inhales the aerosol.

[0102] In one embodiment, after the heater 130 starts heating, if the amount of aerosol is determined to be less than a critical value after a predetermined time has elapsed, the processor 120 can stop the operation of the heater 130. In other words, at the end of the preheating period, the processor 120 determines the amount of aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article 200. When the determined amount of aerosol is less than a critical value, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol generating article 200 is in an abnormal state. Therefore, the processor 120 can stop the operation of the heater 130.

[0103] Furthermore, after the heater 130 begins heating, if the amount of aerosol is less than a critical value at a predetermined time point, the aerosol generating device 100 can notify the user via a user interface (not shown) to remove the aerosol generating article 200 from the receiving space 160. For example, the user interface may be at least one of a display screen capable of outputting visual information or a motor for outputting tactile information, but is not limited thereto.

[0104] In one embodiment, after the heater 130 starts heating, if the amount of aerosol detected by the processor 120 at a predetermined time point is above a critical value, the processor 120 can reduce the heating temperature of the heater 130. In other words, at the end of the preheating period, the processor 120 determines the amount of aerosol generated from the containment space 160. When the determined amount of aerosol is above a critical value, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol generating article 200 is in a normal state. Therefore, the processor 120 can determine that the preheating has proceeded normally and can reduce the heating temperature of the heater 130 according to the predetermined temperature curve. However, it is not limited to this; the processor 120 can also increase the heating temperature after the preheating period ends, according to the predetermined temperature curve.

[0105] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a method for determining whether the amount of aerosol generated in a containment space is uniform, which is used to explain an embodiment of an aerosol generating apparatus. Figure 9 The processor 120, heater 130, and housing 160 can essentially be connected with Figure 5 The processor 120, heater 130, and housing 160 are identical, therefore the details will be omitted. Figure 5 Repeated explanation.

[0106] For example, the aerosol generating article 200 may be housed in an abnormal state in the receiving space 160, such as being inserted in a direction that is not parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device 100. In this case, because the heat from the heater 130 is unevenly transferred to the aerosol generating article 200, the aerosol generated material in one area of ​​the aerosol generating article 200 is depleted faster than that in other areas, making it difficult for the user to experience the satisfaction of smoking.

[0107] In one embodiment, the transducer 170 may include a first transducer 171 for outputting ultrasonic waves to a region of the receiving space 160 and a second transducer 172 for outputting ultrasonic waves to other regions of the receiving space 160. For example, the first transducer 171 and the second transducer 172 may be configured in the receiving space 160 in opposite orientations, but are not limited thereto.

[0108] In one embodiment, the processor 120 can control the operation of the heater 130 by comparing the amount of aerosol V1 generated in one region of the containment space 160 as determined by the first transducer 171 with the amount of aerosol V2 generated in other regions of the containment space 160 as determined by the second transducer 172. For example, the processor 120 can determine the amount of aerosol V1 generated in one region of the containment space 160 based on the intensity of the electrical signal generated by the first transducer 171. Additionally, the processor 120 can determine the amount of aerosol V2 generated in other regions of the containment space 160 based on the intensity of the electrical signal generated by the second transducer 172. Based on whether the difference between the amount of aerosol V1 generated in one region of the containment space 160 and the amount of aerosol V2 generated in other regions of the containment space 160 is greater than an error range, the processor 120 can determine whether aerosols V1 and V2 are uniformly generated inside the containment space 160.

[0109] In one embodiment, when the amount of aerosol V1 generated in one region of the containment space 160 and the amount of aerosol V2 generated in other regions of the containment space 160 are greater than the error range, the processor 120 determines that aerosols V1 and V2 are generated unevenly inside the containment space 160 and can stop the heating operation of the heater 130.

[0110] Furthermore, when it is determined that aerosols V1 and V2 are being generated unevenly within the containing space 160, the aerosol generating device 100 can provide a notification to the user, through a user interface (not shown), confirming the containing status of the aerosol-generated article. The user interface may be, for example, at least one of a display screen capable of outputting visual information or a motor for outputting tactile information, but is not limited thereto.

[0111] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 10 Content related to the operation of aerosol generating devices and Figures 1 to 9 The embodiments described herein are relevant, therefore, even if the above content is omitted below, it can be considered as such. Figures 1 to 9 The content described herein applies to Figure 10 The method.

[0112] In step 1010, the aerosol generating apparatus can determine the type of aerosol generating article contained in the containment space based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer. For example, the aerosol generating apparatus can determine the type of aerosol generating article contained in the containment space by comparing at least one of the intensity, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal generated by the transducer with at least one of the intensity, mode, and characteristics of the electrical signal stored in the memory.

[0113] In step 1020, the aerosol generating device can determine whether the type of aerosol generated is different from the type already stored in the aerosol generating device.

[0114] In step 1030, if the determined type of aerosol-generating article differs from the types already stored in the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device can control the heater to stop heating. Additionally, the aerosol generating device can output a notification confirming the type of aerosol-generating article through the user interface.

[0115] In step 1040, when the determined type of aerosol-generating item differs from the types already stored in the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device can control the heater to perform heating based on the temperature curve corresponding to the determined type of aerosol-generating item. After the aerosol generating device completes the determination of the type of aerosol-generating item, the user can initiate the heating action without further input. However, this is not the only limitation; the aerosol generating device will only initiate the heating action upon receiving additional input from the user after completing the determination of the type of aerosol-generating item.

[0116] In step 1050, the aerosol generating device can determine the amount of aerosol generated in the containment space based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer. For example, after the heater starts the heating action of preheating the aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating device can determine the amount of aerosol generated in the containment space at a time point after a set time has elapsed (i.e., when preheating is completed).

[0117] In step 1060, the aerosol generating device can determine whether the amount of aerosol being measured is less than a critical value.

[0118] In step 1070, when the determined amount of aerosol is less than a critical value, the aerosol generating device determines that the aerosol-generating article is in an abnormal state and can control the heater to stop operating. For example, when the aerosol-generating article is in an abnormal state, it may include impurities inside the aerosol-generating article or excessive moisture.

[0119] In step 1080, when the determined amount of aerosol is above a critical value, the heater can be controlled to reduce its heating temperature. In other words, at the end of preheating, the aerosol generating device determines the amount of aerosol generated in the containment space. When the determined amount of aerosol is above a critical value, it can be determined that the aerosol-generating product is in a normal state. Therefore, the aerosol generating device can determine that preheating is proceeding normally and can reduce the heater's heating temperature according to the pre-set temperature curve.

[0120] As described above, the aerosol generating apparatus related to the embodiments can obtain comprehensive information about the aerosol-generated article by using a transducer, and control the operation of the heater based on the obtained information, thereby providing the user with an aerosol with excellent flavor.

[0121] One embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium including computer-executable commands, such as a computer-executable program module. A computer-readable medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer, including volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. Additionally, a computer-readable medium can include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented using any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data or other transmission mechanisms that modulate data signals, including any information transmission medium.

[0122] Those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains will understand that variations may be made without departing from the essential characteristics described above. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered from an illustrative rather than a limiting perspective. The scope of this invention is defined by the claims, not the foregoing description, and all differences within the equivalent scope should be understood to be included within this invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, wherein, The aerosol generating device includes: A containment space for holding aerosol-generating items; A heater that heats the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol; A transducer that outputs ultrasonic waves to the receiving space, receives reflected ultrasonic waves from the receiving space, and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the received ultrasonic waves; and The processor determines the type of aerosol-generating article contained in the containment space based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer, and controls the operation of the heater based on the determined type of aerosol-generating article. The processor is further configured to: determine the amount of aerosol generated in the containment space based on an electrical signal generated by the transducer, and control the operation of the heater based on the determined amount of aerosol.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The transducer is arranged separately from the heater along the length of the aerosol generating device.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to control the heater to perform a heating action according to a temperature curve from a plurality of pre-set temperature curves that corresponds to the determined type of aerosol-generating article.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to: The determined types of aerosol-generating articles are compared with the types of aerosol-generating articles already stored in the aerosol-generating device. If the type of aerosol-generating article determined to be different from the type of aerosol-generating article already stored in the aerosol-generating device, the heater is controlled not to heat.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is also configured to: The determination of whether the aerosol-generating article is reused is based on the electrical signal generated by the transducer. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating article is to be reused, the heater is controlled to not heat the aerosol-generating article.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to stop the heater's operation after the heater starts heating, provided that the determined amount of aerosol is less than a critical value after a set time has elapsed.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The aerosol generating device also includes a user interface; The processor is configured to, when the determined amount of aerosol is less than a critical value, control the user interface to provide the user with a notification that the aerosol-generating article is being removed from the containment space.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to: After the heater starts heating, if the determined amount of aerosol is above a critical value after a set time has elapsed, the heating temperature of the heater is reduced.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The transducer includes: A first transducer is used to output ultrasonic waves to a region of the containing space, and The second transducer is used to output ultrasonic waves to other areas of the containment space; The processor is configured to: The amount of aerosol generated in one region as determined by the first transducer is compared with the amount of aerosol generated in other regions as determined by the second transducer, and the operation of the heater is controlled based on the result of the comparison.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The processor is configured to stop the operation of the heater if the difference between the amount of aerosol generated in one region and the amount of aerosol generated in other regions is greater than an error range.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The aerosol generating device also includes a user interface; The processor is configured to control the user interface to provide the user with a notification confirming the containment status of the aerosol-generating article if the difference between the amount of aerosol generated in one area and the amount of aerosol generated in other areas exceeds an error range.

Images