Aerosol-generating device and method of operating same

Abstract

There is provided an aerosol-generating device including: a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article inserted into an accommodation space of the aerosol-generating device; the sensing module comprises at least one of an inductive sensor or a temperature sensor, the inductive sensor is configured to detect the inductive change of the accommodating space, and the temperature sensor is configured to detect the temperature change of the heater; and a processor configured to: detect, via the sensing module, whether the aerosol-generating article inserted into the accommodation space is at least partially moved from the accommodation space; and controlling power supply to the heater based on detecting that the aerosol-generating article is at least partially moved from the accommodation space, based on at least one of an inductive change or a temperature change acquired via the sensing module. In addition, the invention also provides an operation method of the aerosol generating device.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese invention patent application with the application date of May 12, 2022, the national application number 202280007783.9 (PCT / KR2022 / 006825), and the invention name “Aerosol generating device for controlling the power of a heater and its operating method”. Technical Field

[0002] One or more example embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device for controlling power of a heater by applying a preset retention time, and an operating method of the aerosol generating device. Background Art

[0003] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is an increasing demand for systems that generate aerosol by heating a cigarette or an aerosol-generating substance using an aerosol-generating device rather than by burning the cigarette.

[0004] Recently, a method of automatically controlling the heating operation of an aerosol generating device has been studied. In particular, a smart shutoff technology for automatically stopping the heating operation of an aerosol generating device when a cigarette is removed has been developed. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] A method of automatically stopping the heating operation of a heater when a cigarette is removed from an aerosol generating device has been introduced to improve the convenience of the user in using the aerosol generating device. However, even when a part of the cigarette is moved in a manner different from the user's intention, the heating operation of the aerosol generating device may be automatically stopped, so that the user needs to start heating by turning on the power of the heater again, thereby unnecessarily increasing the power consumption of the aerosol generating device.

[0007] One or more embodiments include an aerosol generating device for controlling power to a heater by applying a preset holding time, and an operating method of the aerosol generating device.

[0008] Technical problems to be solved by one or more embodiments are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and technical problems not mentioned may be clearly understood from the description and the accompanying drawings by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong.

[0009] Technical solutions for technical problems

[0010] According to one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating device includes: a heater, which is configured to heat an aerosol generating product inserted into a storage space of the aerosol generating device; a sensing module, which includes at least one of an induction sensor or a temperature sensor, the induction sensor is configured to detect an induction change of the storage space, and the temperature sensor is configured to detect a temperature change of the heater; and a processor, which is configured to: detect via the sensing module whether the aerosol generating product inserted into the storage space is at least partially moved from the storage space; and based on detecting that the aerosol generating product is at least partially moved from the storage space, control the power supply to the heater according to at least one of the induction change or the temperature change acquired via the sensing module.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments, the operating method of the aerosol generating device includes: detecting, via a sensing module, whether an aerosol generating product inserted into a accommodating space is at least partially moved from the accommodating space; and based on detecting that the aerosol generating product is at least partially moved from the accommodating space, controlling the power supply to the heater based on at least one of an induction change or a temperature change detected via the sensing module.

[0012]

Beneficial effects

[0013] According to one or more example embodiments, the holding time may be applied to determine whether the aerosol generating article is moved in the aerosol generating device. Therefore, the user may effectively control the power of the heater by reflecting the intention and prevent waste of power consumption that may occur due to frequent control of power. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 Shown is a block diagram of an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 Shown in Figure 1 Flow chart of controlling the power supply to a heater in an aerosol generating system.

[0016] Figure 3 A graph for explaining a method of controlling an inductive sensor of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0017] Figure 4 A flow chart for determining whether an aerosol-generating article has been moved in an aerosol-generating system according to embodiments is shown.

[0018] Figure 5A flow chart showing control of power supply to a heater based on whether an aerosol-generating article is inserted therein, in an aerosol-generating system according to an embodiment.

[0019] Fig. 6A is a diagram illustrating a method of controlling an inductive sensor of an aerosol generating device when an aerosol generating article is in a first state according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6B is a diagram illustrating a method of controlling an inductive sensor of an aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating article is in a second state according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 6C is a diagram illustrating a method of controlling an inductive sensor of an aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating article is in a third state according to an embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 7A is a diagram showing elements of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7B is a block diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0025] With respect to the terms used to describe in various embodiments, the functions of the structural elements in the various embodiments of the present disclosure are considered to select the currently widely used general terms. However, the meaning of these terms can be changed according to intention, judicial precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in some cases, uncommon terms can be selected. In this case, the meaning of the term will be described in detail at the corresponding part in the description of the present disclosure. Therefore, the terms used in the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be defined based on the meaning of the term and the description provided herein.

[0026] In addition, unless explicitly described to the contrary, the term "include" and variations such as "include" or "includes" will be understood to mean including the stated elements but not excluding any other elements. In addition, the terms "-device", "-part" and "module" described in this application document refer to units for processing at least one function and operation, and can be implemented by hardware components or software components and combinations thereof.

[0027] In the present disclosure, "at least one" means one or more, and "plurality" means two or more. "At least one of the following items" or similar expressions refers to any combination of these items, including a single item or any combination of multiple items. For example, "at least one of a and b" can represent a alone, b alone, or "a and b".

[0028] As used herein, an aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol by using an aerosol generating substance that generates an aerosol that can be inhaled directly into the lungs of a user through the user's mouth. For example, the aerosol generating device may be a holder.

[0029] As used herein, the term "inhalation" may refer to inhalation by a user, and inhalation may refer to a situation in which smoke is drawn into the oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs of the user through the mouth or nose of the user.

[0030] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figure 1 Shown is a block diagram of an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment.

[0033] Reference Figure 1 , the aerosol generating system may include an aerosol generating device 100 and an aerosol generating article 15. In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a housing space, in which the aerosol generating article 15 may be inserted. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating article 15 inserted into the housing space. The aerosol generating article 15 may correspond to a cigarette, but is not limited thereto. The aerosol generating article 15 may include all articles containing an aerosol generating substance.

[0034] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a processor 110, a heater 120, and a sensing module 130. However, the configuration of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to Figure 1 A person skilled in the art will appreciate that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating device 100 may be omitted. Figure 1 Some of the components shown in the figure may also include additional components.

[0035] In an embodiment, the heater 120 may heat the aerosol-generating article 15 inserted into the accommodation space of the aerosol-generating device 100 .

[0036] For example, the heater 120 may be an induction heating type heater. In detail, the heater 120 may include an induction coil for heating the aerosol generating article 15 by induction heating, and a susceptor that can be heated by passing a variable magnetic field generated by the induction coil through the susceptor.

[0037] In another example, the heater 120 may be a resistive heater. In detail, the heater 120 may include a conductive trace, and when current flows through the conductive trace, the heater 120 may be heated. However, the heater 120 is not limited to the above example, and may include any type of heater that can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 100, or may be set to a temperature desired by the user.

[0038] In an embodiment, the sensing module 130 may include at least one of an inductive sensor 132 and a temperature sensor 134. For example, the inductive sensor 132 may detect the following: whether the aerosol generating article 15 is removed from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100; whether the aerosol generating article 15 is at least partially removed from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100; or whether the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted into the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100. The inductive sensor 132 may detect the inductive changes of the accommodation space that occur when the aerosol generating article 15 is removed from the accommodation space, at least partially moved, or inserted into the accommodation space. Here, the aerosol generating article 15 may include a metal material, such as aluminum. For example, the temperature sensor 134 may detect the following: whether the aerosol generating article 15 is removed from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100; whether the aerosol generating article 15 is at least partially moved from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100; or whether the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted into the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100. The temperature sensor 134 may detect temperature changes that occur when the aerosol generating article 15 is removed from the accommodation space, at least partially moved from the accommodation space, or inserted into the accommodation space.

[0039] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may start counting a specified time when determining whether the aerosol generating article 15 is moved from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the specified time may refer to a waiting time for determining whether the aerosol generating article 15 is reinserted from the time point when the aerosol generating article 15 is moved. The specified time may be set to different values ​​according to the design of the manufacturer, user settings, etc.

[0040] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may detect the induction change during a specified time via the induction sensor 132. For example, the processor 110 may detect the induction change within 5 seconds from the time point when the aerosol generating article 15 is moved. Here, the processor 110 may detect whether the induction change occurs due to the reinsertion of the aerosol generating article 15 within 5 seconds from the time point when the aerosol generating article 15 is moved. In an embodiment, the processor 110 may determine whether to supply power to the heater 120 based on the detected induction change.

[0041] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may be hardware that controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the processor 110 may control the operations of other elements included in the aerosol generating device 100, as well as the operations of the heater 120 and the sensing module 130. In an embodiment, the processor 110 may also determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is in an operable state by checking the state of each of the elements of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0042] Figure 2 Shown in Figure 1 Flow chart of controlling the power supply to a heater in an aerosol generating system.

[0043] Reference Figure 2 In operation 201, a processor (eg, Figure 1 The processor 110 of the embodiment may be configured to receive the signal from the sensor module (eg, Figure 1 The sensing module 130 of the aerosol generating article (e.g., Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 15) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 100 is moved from the accommodating space to detect whether it is moved from the accommodating space.

[0044] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may be configured to detect the presence of a sensor (e.g., Figure 1The inductive sensor 132 detects the inductive change and detects whether the aerosol generating article 15 is moved from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the aerosol generating article 15 inserted into and located in the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100 may include a metal material. A magnetic field may be generated on the surface of the inductive sensor 132. When the metal material (or magnetic substance) located in the magnetic field generated by the inductive sensor 132 is moved, the processor 110 may detect via the inductive sensor 132 that the inductive value changes due to the movement of the metal material. When the inductive change value is greater than a threshold value, the processor 110 may detect that the aerosol generating article 15 is moved from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0045] In another embodiment, the processor 110 can detect the temperature of the battery by using a temperature sensor (e.g., Figure 1 The temperature sensor 134 of the processor 110 detects the temperature change and detects whether the aerosol generating article 15 is moved from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, when the aerosol generating article 15 inserted into and located in the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100 is moved, the temperature sensor 134 can detect that the internal temperature of the aerosol generating device 100 increases rapidly. When the increased internal temperature is higher than the threshold temperature, the processor 110 can also detect that the aerosol generating article 15 is moved from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0046] According to an embodiment, in operation 203 , the processor 110 may control power supply to the heater 120 based on at least one of an induction change and a temperature change.

[0047] In an embodiment, when the magnitude of the inductive change detected during the specified time is less than a threshold value, the processor 110 may stop the power supply to the heater 120. For example, when the specified time is 5 seconds and the magnitude of the inductive change detected during the 5 seconds is less than the threshold value, the processor 110 may stop the power supply to the heater 120 by determining that the aerosol generating article 15 has not been reinserted. Here, stopping the power supply to the heater 120 may indicate that the user's smoking is terminated.

[0048] In another embodiment, when the magnitude of the inductive change detected during the specified time is greater than or equal to the threshold, the processor 110 may maintain the power supply to the heater 120. For example, when the specified time is 5 seconds and the magnitude of the inductive change detected during the 5 seconds is greater than or equal to the threshold, the processor 110 may maintain the power supply to the heater 120 by determining that the aerosol generating article 15 is reinserted.

[0049] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 can reduce the consumption of electric power by determining whether to supply power to the heater 120 based on the induction change detected during the specified time. For example, the existing aerosol generating device can stop heating by automatically turning off the power of the heater at the time point when the aerosol generating product is removed. However, even when the aerosol generating product is mistakenly moved from the aerosol generating device in a manner different from the user's intention (for example, even when the aerosol generating product sticks to the user's lips and comes out of the aerosol generating device), the aerosol generating device will stop heating by automatically turning off the power of the heater. In this case, the user needs to start heating by turning on the power of the heater again. Therefore, the existing aerosol generating device may be inconvenient to use, waste power due to frequent control of power, etc. When it is detected that the aerosol generating product 15 is moved and is not reinserted based on the induction change detected during the specified time, the aerosol generating device 100 according to the present embodiment can stop heating by turning off the power of the heater 120, thereby solving the shortcomings that may occur in the related art.

[0050] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may control the power supply to the heater 120 based on the magnitude of the temperature change detected during the specified time. For example, when the specified time is 5 seconds and the magnitude of the temperature change detected during the 5 seconds is less than a threshold value, the processor 110 may stop the power supply to the heater 120 by determining that the aerosol generating article 15 has not been reinserted. Here, stopping the power supply to the heater 120 may indicate that the user's smoking is terminated. For another example, when the specified time is 5 seconds and the magnitude of the temperature change detected during the 5 seconds is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the processor 110 may maintain the power supply to the heater 120 by determining that the aerosol generating article 15 is reinserted.

[0051] In other words, when the aerosol-generating article 15 is reinserted, the temperature of the heater 120 may drop, and the processor 110 may control the power supply to the heater 120 by comparing the degree of temperature drop of the heater 120 with a preset threshold value.

[0052] Figure 3 A graph for explaining a method of controlling an inductive sensor of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0053] Reference Figure 3 , processor (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 110 can be connected via a sensing sensor (e.g., Figure 1The inductive sensor 132 of the inductive sensor 132 detects the inductive change during the specified time 300. For example, the processor 110 can detect the inductive change by controlling the voltage of the inductive sensor 132 in a pulse width modulation (PWM) method. Here, the processor 110 can preset the number of times the inductive sensor 132 is switched to the enabled state during the specified time 300. Figure 3 It is shown that the inductive sensor 132 is switched to the enabled state five times during the specified time 300 , but the number of times the inductive sensor 132 is switched to the enabled state is not limited thereto.

[0054] In embodiments, the processor 110 may determine whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 15 of the invention is released from an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 1 The first time point 310 may refer to a time point when counting of the designated time 300 is started.

[0055] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may switch the state of the inductive sensor 132 to the enabled state by controlling the voltage supply to the inductive sensor 132 at the second time point 320. Here, the processor 110 may cut off the voltage supplied from the battery to the heater (e.g., Figure 1 In other words, the processor 110 may perform an operation of cutting off the power supplied to the heater 120 and an operation of switching the state of the inductive sensor 132 to the enabled state in parallel. In an embodiment, when the power supplied to the heater 120 is cut off at the second time point 320, the internal temperature of the aerosol generating device 100 may decrease. The inductive value detected by the inductive sensor 132 may be distorted at a high temperature, and thus the processor 110 may periodically stop the heating of the heater 120 and detect the inductive change via the inductive sensor 132.

[0056] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may switch the state of the inductive sensor 132 to a disabled state at a third time point 330. Here, the processor 110 may control the power supplied from the battery to the heater 120 at the third time point 330. In other words, the processor 110 may perform an operation of supplying power to the heater 120 and an operation of switching the state of the inductive sensor 132 to a disabled state in parallel. In an embodiment, when power is supplied to the heater 120 at the third time point 330, the internal temperature of the aerosol generating device 100 may increase.

[0057] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may detect the sensing change at least once (e.g., five times) from the first time point 310 to the fourth time point 340 via the sensing sensor 132. The processor 110 may determine whether the aerosol generating article 15 is reinserted based on the sensing change detected during the designated time 300 from the first time point 310 to the fourth time point 340. For example, when the sensing change detected during the designated time 300 from the first time point 310 to the fourth time point 340 is less than a threshold value, the processor 110 may determine that the aerosol generating article 15 is not reinserted, and when the sensing change is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the processor 110 may determine that the aerosol generating article 15 is reinserted.

[0058] Figure 3 Only the time point after the aerosol generating article 15 is moved from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100 is shown, but it is not limited thereto. Figure 3 The described method of controlling the voltage of the inductive sensor 132 and the method of controlling the power associated with the heater 120 may also be applied to the method of determining whether the aerosol generating article 15 is moved from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100 .

[0059] Figure 4 A flow chart for determining whether an aerosol-generating article has been moved in an aerosol-generating system according to embodiments is shown. Figure 4 It shows in detail Figure 2 The flowchart of operation 201 and therefore will be omitted herein Figure 4 Descriptions corresponding to, identical to, or similar to the above descriptions.

[0060] Reference Figure 4 In operation 201a, a processor (eg, Figure 1 The processor 110 can be connected via a sensing sensor (e.g., Figure 1 The inductive sensor 132 of the aerosol generating article 15 is periodically detected according to a certain period of time. For example, the first inductive change may refer to a minimum value of the inductive change, at which the aerosol generating article 15 is determined to be moved.

[0061] In an embodiment, the processor 110 switches the state of the inductive sensor 132 to an enabled state and cuts off the supply to the heater (eg, Figure 1Here, the certain period of time may include a sufficient period of time for which the inductive change can be detected via the inductive sensor 132. For example, when the certain period of time is set to 1 second, the processor 110 may switch the state of the inductive sensor 132 to an enabled state and cut off the power supplied to the heater 120 at intervals of 1 second.

[0062] In an embodiment, within a certain period of time, the processor 110 may switch the state of the sensing sensor 132 to an enabled state, obtain data on sensing changes, and switch the state of the sensing sensor 132 to a disabled state. For example, when the certain period of time is set to 1 second, the processor 110 may switch the state of the sensing sensor 132 to an enabled state, obtain data on sensing changes within 0.7 seconds, switch the state of the sensing sensor 132 to a disabled state, and maintain the disabled state for 0.3 seconds.

[0063] According to an embodiment, in operation 201b, the processor 110 may determine whether the magnitude of the first inductive change detected by the inductive sensor 132 is greater than or equal to a first threshold. For example, the first threshold may refer to an aerosol generating article including a metal material (e.g., Figure 1 aerosol generating article 15) from an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 1 The minimum value of the induced change amount that occurs when the accommodating space of the aerosol generating device 100 is moved.

[0064] In an embodiment, upon determining that the magnitude of the detected first sensing change is greater than or equal to the first threshold, in operation 201c, the processor 110 may detect that the aerosol generating article 15 is moved. In another embodiment, upon determining that the magnitude of the detected first sensing change is less than the first threshold, the processor 110 may return to operation 201a and perform the following operations again.

[0065] Figure 5 A flow chart is shown for controlling the supply of power to a heater based on whether an aerosol-generating article is inserted therein in an aerosol-generating system according to an embodiment. Figure 5 It shows in detail Figure 2 The flowchart of operation 203 is omitted herein. Figure 5 Descriptions corresponding to, identical to, or similar to the above descriptions.

[0066] Reference Figure 5 In operation 203a, a processor (eg, Figure 1The processor 110 may set the detection time t of the sensing change. For example, the detection time t may be set to 1. For example, the processor 110 may execute the specified time (for example, Figure 3 The count of the specified time (300).

[0067] According to an embodiment, in operation 203b, the processor 110 may detect the presence of a sensor (e.g., Figure 1 The inductive sensor 132 of the aerosol generating article 15 detects the second inductive change. For example, the second inductive change may refer to a minimum value of the following inductive change: at this minimum value, the aerosol generating article 15 is determined to be reinserted.

[0068] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may periodically switch the state of the inductive sensor 132 to an enabled state and cut off the supply to the heater (eg, Figure 1 Here, the certain period of time may include a sufficient period of time during which the induction change can be detected via the induction sensor 132. For example, when the certain period of time is set to 1 second, the processor 110 may switch the state of the induction sensor 132 to an enabled state and cut off the power supplied to the heater 120 at intervals of 1 second.

[0069] In an embodiment, within a certain period of time, the processor 110 may switch the state of the sensing sensor 132 to an enabled state, obtain data about sensing changes, and switch the state of the sensing sensor 132 to a disabled state. For example, when the certain period of time is set to 1 second, the processor 110 may switch the state of the sensing sensor 132 to an enabled state, obtain data about sensing changes within 0.7 seconds, switch the state of the sensing sensor 132 to a disabled state, and maintain the disabled state for 0.3 seconds.

[0070] According to an embodiment, in operation 203c, the processor 110 may determine whether the magnitude of the second inductive change detected by the inductive sensor 132 is greater than or equal to a second threshold. For example, the second threshold may refer to when the aerosol generating article including a metal material (e.g., Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 15) is reinserted into the aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 1 The minimum value of the amount of induced change that occurs when the accommodating space of the aerosol generating device 100 is filled.

[0071] In an embodiment, upon determining that the magnitude of the detected second inductive change is greater than or equal to the second threshold, in operation 203d, the processor 110 may maintain power supply to the heater 120. For example, upon determining that the magnitude of the detected second inductive change is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the processor 110 may maintain power supply from the battery to the heater 120.

[0072] In another embodiment, when it is determined that the magnitude of the detected second change induction is less than the second threshold, in operation 203e, the processor 110 may determine whether the detection time t of the induction change is equal to the specified time t 指定 to confirm.

[0073] In an embodiment, when it is determined in operation 203e that the detection time t of the induction change is not equal to the specified time t 指定 , the processor 110 may update the detection time t of the sensing change to t+1 in operation 203g. For example, when the detection time t of the sensing change is 1 second (t=1) and the specified time t 指定 5 seconds (T 指定 =5), the processor 110 may update the detection time t of the induction change to 2 seconds (t=2). Thereafter, the processor 110 may return to operation 203b and perform the following operations again.

[0074] In an embodiment, when determining that the detection time t of the induction change is equal to the specified time t 指定 After that, in operation 203f, the processor 110 may stop the power supply to the heater 120. For example, when the detection time t of the induction change is 5 seconds (t=5) and the specified time t 指定 5 seconds (t 指定 =5), the processor 110 may cut off the power supplied from the battery to the heater 120.

[0075] Fig. 6A is a diagram showing a method of controlling an inductive sensor of an aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating article is in a first state according to an embodiment. The first state may refer to a state in which the aerosol generating article 15 is completely inserted into the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0076] Reference Fig. 6A , the aerosol generating system may include an aerosol generating device 100 and an aerosol generating article 15. In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a receiving space, and the aerosol generating article 15 may be inserted into the receiving space.

[0077] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may include an inductive sensor 132, a base 620, and an inductive coil 630. In an embodiment, the inductive coil 630 may generate a variable magnetic field when power is supplied from a battery, and the base 620 may be heated by the variable magnetic field generated by the inductive coil 630. For example, the inductive coil 630 may be arranged to surround the outer circumferential surface of the base 620.

[0078] In an embodiment, the inductive sensor 132 may include a first channel 600 and a second channel 610. For example, the first channel 600 may detect an inductive change caused by a first portion of the aerosol generating article 15, and the second channel 610 may detect an inductive change caused by a second portion of the aerosol generating article 15 that is different from the first portion. In an embodiment, the first channel 600 and the second channel 610 may be arranged so as not to overlap with the base 620. For example, the first channel 600 may be arranged in a region disposed at a lower portion of the base 620 (e.g., a region disposed in the -x direction), and the second channel 610 may be arranged in a region disposed at an upper portion of the base 620 (e.g., a region disposed in the +x direction). Since the first channel 600 and the second channel 610 are arranged so as not to overlap with the base 620, the first channel 600 and the second channel 610 may detect an inductive change without being affected by a variable magnetic field generated by the inductive coil 630.

[0079] Figure 6B is a diagram showing a method of controlling an inductive sensor of an aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating article is in a second state according to an embodiment. The second state may refer to a state in which a portion of the aerosol generating article 15 is moved a certain distance from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0080] Reference Figure 6B When the aerosol generating article 15 moves from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100 along the +x direction, the processor (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 110 of the inductive sensor 132 may detect the inductive change via some of the multiple channels of the inductive sensor 132. For example, the processor 110 may detect the inductive change via the first channel 600 of the inductive sensor 132. In an embodiment, when the inductive change is detected via only some of the multiple channels of the inductive sensor 132, the processor 110 may not start counting the specified time. In another embodiment, even when the inductive change is detected via only some of the multiple channels of the inductive sensor 132, the processor 110 may start counting the specified time.

[0081] Figure 6Cis a diagram showing a method of controlling the inductive sensor of the aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating article is in the third state according to an embodiment. The third state may refer to a state in which the aerosol generating article 15 is completely removed from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0082] Reference Figure 6C When the aerosol generating article 15 is completely removed from the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100 along the +x direction, the processor (eg, Figure 1 The processor 110 may detect the sensing change via the multiple channels of the sensing sensor 132. For example, the processor 110 may detect the sensing change via the first channel 600 and the second channel 610 of the sensing sensor 132. In an embodiment, when the sensing change is detected via the multiple channels of the sensing sensor 132, the processor 110 may start counting a specified time.

[0083] Fig. 7A is a diagram showing elements of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0084] Reference Fig. 7A , the aerosol generating device 100 may include a base 122, an induction coil 124, a battery 115, and a processor 110. However, the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited thereto, and in addition to including Fig. 7A In addition to the elements shown in , the aerosol generating device 100 may also include other common elements.

[0085] The aerosol generating device 100 may generate aerosol by heating the aerosol generating article 15 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 100 by an induction heating method. The induction heating method may refer to a method of heating the base 122 by applying an alternating magnetic field having a periodically changing direction to the base 122 that generates heat via an external magnetic field.

[0086] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to the base 122, energy loss may occur in the base 122 due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss, and the lost energy may be discharged from the base 122 as heat energy. As the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field applied to the base 122 increases, more heat energy may be discharged from the base 122. The aerosol generating device 100 may discharge heat energy from the base 122 by applying an alternating magnetic field to the base 122, and the heat energy discharged from the base 122 may be transferred to the aerosol generating article 15. In an embodiment, the base 122 may be provided in the aerosol generating device 100 in a shape such as a block, a sheet, or a strip.

[0087] At least a portion of the base 122 may be formed of a ferromagnetic substance. For example, the base 122 may include metal or carbon. The base 122 may include at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). In addition, the base 122 may include at least one of the following: ceramics such as graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel alloy, metal film, or zirconium oxide; transition metals such as nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co); and metalloids such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P).

[0088] The aerosol generating device 100 may house the aerosol generating article 15. The aerosol generating device 100 may include a space formed in the aerosol generating device 100 for housing the aerosol generating article 15. The base 122 may be arranged in the space for housing the aerosol generating article 15 or around the space for housing the aerosol generating article 15.

[0089] The base 122 may surround at least a portion of an outer surface of an aerosol-generating article 15 housed in the aerosol-generating device 100. For example, the base 122 may surround a tobacco medium included in the aerosol-generating article 15. Thus, heat may be more efficiently transferred from the base 122 to the tobacco medium.

[0090] The induction coil 124 may be provided in the aerosol generating device 100. The induction coil 124 may apply an alternating magnetic field to the base 122. When power is supplied from the aerosol generating device 100 to the induction coil 124, a magnetic field may be formed within the induction coil 124. When an alternating current is applied to the induction coil 124, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the induction coil 124 may continuously change. When the base 122 is located within the induction coil 124 and is exposed to an alternating magnetic field having a periodically changing direction, the base 122 may generate heat, and the aerosol generating article 15 accommodated in the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device 100 may be heated.

[0091] The induction coil 124 may be wound along the outer surface of the base 122. In addition, the induction coil 124 may be wound along the inner surface of the outer shell of the aerosol generating device 100. The base 122 may be located in an inner space formed by winding the induction coil 124. When power is supplied to the induction coil 124, an alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil 124 may be applied to the base 122.

[0092] The induction coil 124 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device 100. The induction coil 124 may extend in the longitudinal direction to an appropriate length. For example, the induction coil 124 may extend to a length corresponding to the length of the base 122, or may extend to a length longer than the length of the base 122.

[0093] The induction coil 124 may be arranged at a position suitable for applying an alternating magnetic field to the base 122. For example, the induction coil 124 may be arranged at a position corresponding to the base 122. The efficiency of applying the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 124 to the base 122 may be improved by the size and arrangement structure of the induction coil 124 as described above.

[0094] When the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by the induction coil 124 changes, the degree to which the base 122 heats the aerosol generating article 15 may also change. The amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by the induction coil 124 may be changed by the power applied to the induction coil 124, and therefore, the aerosol generating device 100 may control the heating of the aerosol generating article 15 by adjusting the power applied to the induction coil 124. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may control the amplitude and frequency of the alternating current applied to the induction coil 124.

[0095] As an example, the induction coil 124 may be implemented as a solenoid. The induction coil 124 may be a solenoid wound along the inner surface of the outer shell of the aerosol generating device 100, and the base 122 and the aerosol generating article 15 may be located in the inner space of the solenoid. The material of the conductor included in the solenoid may be copper (Cu). However, the material of the conductor included in the solenoid is not limited thereto, and may include an alloy containing any one or at least one of the following: silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni).

[0096] The battery 115 may supply power to the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 115 may supply power to the induction coil 124. The battery 115 may include a battery for supplying a direct current to the aerosol generating device 100 and a converter for converting the direct current supplied from the battery into an alternating current supplied to the induction coil 124.

[0097] The battery 115 can supply direct current to the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 115 can be a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, the battery 115 can be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCo2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, etc.

[0098] The converter may include a low-pass filter that filters the DC current supplied from the battery and outputs an alternating current supplied to the induction coil 124. The converter may also include an amplifier for amplifying the DC current supplied from the battery. For example, the converter may be implemented via a low-pass filter included in a load network of a class D amplifier.

[0099] The processor 110 may control the power supplied to the induction coil 124. The processor 110 may control the battery 115 so that the power supplied to the induction coil 124 is regulated. For example, the processor 110 may perform control based on the temperature of the base 122 to constantly maintain the temperature at which the base 122 heats the aerosol-generating article 15.

[0100] Figure 7B is a block diagram illustrating components of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0101] Reference Figure 7B The aerosol generating device 100 may include a battery 115, a heater 120, a sensing module 130, a user interface 150, a memory 160, and a processor 110. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to Figure 7B According to the design of the aerosol generating device 100, a person skilled in the art will understand that the Figure 7B Some of the components shown in , or new components may be added.

[0102] The battery 115 supplies power for operating the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 115 may supply power so that the heater 120 may be heated. In addition, the battery 115 may supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 100, namely the sensing module 130, the user interface 150, the memory 160, and the processor 110. The battery 115 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery.

[0103] In an embodiment, the heater 120 may include a base (e.g., Fig. 7A base 122) and an induction coil (e.g., Fig. 7A For example, when the heater 120 of the aerosol generating device 100 is an induction heating type, the processor 110 may generate an alternating magnetic field by applying an alternating current to the induction coil 124. When the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil 124 is applied to the base 122, the base 122 may be heated and the aerosol generating article (e.g., Fig. 7A The aerosol generating product 15) is heated.

[0104] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a sensing module 130. The sensed result by the sensing module 130 is transmitted to the processor 110, and the processor 110 may control the aerosol generating device 100 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater 120, restricting smoking, displaying notifications, and the like.

[0105] The sensing module 130 may include a puff sensor. The puff sensor may detect the user's puff based on any one of temperature change, flow change, voltage change, and pressure change.

[0106] Furthermore, the sensing module 130 may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater 120 (or the aerosol generating article 15). The aerosol generating device 100 may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater 120, or instead of including a separate temperature sensor, the heater 120 may operate as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, when the heater 120 operates as a temperature sensor, the aerosol generating device 100 may also include a separate temperature sensor.

[0107] In addition, the sensing module 130 may include a temperature sensor for measuring the ambient temperature of the aerosol generating device 100. The ambient temperature is the temperature outside the aerosol generating device 100. The ambient temperature is the atmospheric temperature at which the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article 15 in the aerosol generating device 100 is discharged. The temperature sensor may be arranged outside the housing of the aerosol generating device 100 to measure the ambient temperature, or the temperature sensor may be arranged on a path through which external air is introduced. The temperature sensor may transmit the value of the measured ambient temperature to the processor 110, and the processor 110 may determine a heating curve for heating the aerosol generating article 15 based on the ambient temperature.

[0108] In addition, the sensing module 130 may include a humidity sensor. The humidity sensor may measure the ambient humidity of the aerosol generating device 100. The ambient humidity refers to the humidity outside the aerosol generating device 100. The ambient humidity is the atmospheric humidity at which the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article 15 in the aerosol generating device 100 is discharged. The humidity sensor may be arranged outside the housing to measure the ambient humidity, or the humidity sensor may be arranged on a path through which external air is introduced. The humidity sensor may transmit the value of the measured ambient humidity to the processor 110, and the processor 110 may determine a heating curve for heating the aerosol generating article 15 based on the ambient humidity.

[0109] In addition, the sensing module 130 may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may detect whether the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100. In an example, the aerosol generating article 15 may include a metal material such as aluminum, and the inductive sensor may detect an inductive change that occurs when the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100.

[0110] In an embodiment, the processor 110 may detect whether the aerosol generating article 15 is moved from the accommodation space via a sensing module 130 including at least one of an inductive sensor and a temperature sensor. For example, the processor 110 may detect whether the aerosol generating article 15 is moved while being inserted into the accommodation space based on an inductive change detected via the inductive sensor. For another example, the processor 110 may detect whether the aerosol generating article 15 is moved while being inserted into the accommodation space based on a temperature change detected via the temperature sensor. In an embodiment, when the movement of the aerosol generating article 15 is detected, the processor 110 may control the power supply to the heater 120 by detecting the reinsertion of the aerosol generating article 15 within a specified time.

[0111] When the insertion of the aerosol generating article 15 is detected, the processor 110 may control the aerosol generating device 100 so that heating starts automatically, even without additional external input. For example, when the insertion of the aerosol generating article 15 is detected, the processor 110 may control the battery 115 to supply power to the induction coil 124. However, the processor 110 is not limited thereto, and the processor may control the aerosol generating device 100 so that heating starts only when additional external input is provided.

[0112] The user interface 150 may provide the user with information related to the status of the aerosol generating device 100. The user interface 150 may include various interface devices, such as a display or light emitter for outputting visual information, a motor for outputting tactile information, a speaker for outputting sound information, an input / output (I / O) interface device (e.g., a button or a touch screen) for receiving information input from the user or outputting information to the user, a terminal for performing data communication or receiving charging power, and a communication interface module for wireless communication with an external device (e.g., Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), etc.).

[0113] However, the aerosol generating device 100 may be implemented by selecting only some of the above-described examples of the various user interfaces 150 .

[0114] The user interface 150 may include a display for outputting visual information related to the aerosol generating device 100. Here, the visual information related to the aerosol generating device 100 includes all information related to the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the display can output: information related to the status of the aerosol generating device 100 (for example, whether the aerosol generating device 100 can be used, etc.); information related to the heater 120 (for example, preheating start, preheating progress, preheating completion, etc.); information related to the battery 115 (for example, the remaining capacity of the battery 115, whether the battery 115 can be used, etc.); information related to resetting the aerosol generating device 100 (for example, reset time, reset progress, reset completion, etc.); information related to cleaning of the aerosol generating device 100 (for example, cleaning time, cleaning required, cleaning progress, cleaning completion, etc.); information related to charging of the aerosol generating device 100 (for example, charging required, charging progress, charging completion, etc.); information related to puffing (for example, the number of puffs, puffing end notification, etc.); information related to safety (for example, the passage of usage time, etc.), etc.

[0115] The communication interface can be connected to an external device, an external server, etc. for communication. For example, the communication interface can be implemented to support at least one type of communication method from various types of digital interfaces, AP-based Wi-Fi (e.g., WiFi, wireless local area network (LAN), etc.), Bluetooth, Zigbee, wired / wireless LAN, WAN, Ethernet, IEEE 1394, HDMI, USB, MHL, AES / EBU, optical, coaxial, etc. In addition, the communication interface may include a transition minimized differential signal (TMDS) channel for transmitting video signals and audio signals, a display data channel (DDC) for transmitting and receiving device information and video or audio related information (e.g., enhanced extended display identification data (E-EDID)), and a consumer electronics control (CEC) channel for transmitting and receiving control signals. However, the communication interface is not limited thereto and can be implemented as various types of interfaces.

[0116] The memory 160, which is a hardware component configured to store various data fragments processed in the aerosol generating device 100, can store data processed or to be processed by the processor 110. The memory 160 may include various types of memories: random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and static random access memory (SRAM); read-only memory (ROM); electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.

[0117] The memory 160 may store the operation time of the aerosol generating device 100 , the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, data on the smoking pattern of the user, and the like.

[0118] The processor 110 may generally control the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The processor 110 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the microprocessor. It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the processor may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0119] Although not in Figure 7B , but the aerosol generating device 100 may be included in the aerosol generating system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery 115 of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, when the aerosol generating device 100 is accommodated in the accommodation space in the cradle, the aerosol generating device 100 may be supplied with power from the battery of the cradle, and the battery 115 of the aerosol generating device 100 may be charged.

[0120] An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium that includes instructions that can be executed by a computer, such as a program module that can be executed by a computer. A computer-readable recording medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, including both volatile and non-volatile media and both removable and non-removable media. In addition, a computer-readable recording medium may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include all volatile and non-volatile media and removable and non-removable media implemented by any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include: computer-readable instructions; data structures; other data in a modulated data signal, such as a program module; or other transmission mechanisms, and communication media include any information transmission media.

[0121] The description of the above embodiments is only an example, and it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and equivalents of the above embodiments may be made. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure shall be defined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope equivalent to the scope described in the claims shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, wherein: The aerosol generating device comprises: a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article inserted into a receiving space of the aerosol-generating device; a sensing module, the sensing module comprising at least one of an induction sensor or a temperature sensor, the induction sensor being configured to detect an induction change of the accommodating space, the temperature sensor being configured to detect a temperature change of the heater; and A processor configured to: detecting, via the sensing module, whether the aerosol-generating article inserted into the housing space is at least partially moved from the housing space; and Based on detecting that the aerosol-generating article is at least partially moved from the accommodation space, power supply to the heater is controlled based on at least one of the induction change or the temperature change acquired via the sensing module.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The sensing module includes the inductive sensor, and Wherein, the processor is further configured to: detecting the change in induction via the induction sensor during a specified time from the time when the aerosol-generating article is detected to be moved; and Based on the magnitude of the induction change being greater than or equal to a threshold, the power supply to the heater is maintained, or based on the magnitude of the induction change being less than the threshold, the power supply to the heater is cut off.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising a battery configured to supply power to the heater, in, The processor is also configured to: cut off the power supplied from the battery to the heater according to a certain period of time; switch the state of the inductive sensor to an enabled state while the power supplied from the battery to the heater is cut off; and detect the inductive change via the inductive sensor switched to the enabled state.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: The processor is further configured to: detect a first sensed change of the housing space according to a certain period of time relative to the aerosol generating article inserted into the housing space; And based on the detected amplitude of the first sensing change being greater than or equal to a first threshold, determining that the aerosol generating article is at least partially moved from the accommodation space.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: The processor is configured to: detect a second sensing change of the housing space according to the certain period within a specified period from the time when the aerosol generating article is detected to be moved from the housing space; And based on the detected amplitude of the second sensing change being greater than or equal to a second threshold, detecting the insertion of the aerosol generating article into the accommodating space.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The inductive sensor comprises: a first channel configured to detect an inductive change due to a first portion of the aerosol-generating article; and A second channel is configured to detect a change in induction due to a second portion of the aerosol-generating article, the second portion being different from the first portion.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein: The processor is also configured to detect the induction change based on the induction change detected by each of the first channel and the second channel.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein: The heater comprises an induction coil and a susceptor configured to heat the aerosol-generating article by passing a variable magnetic field generated by the induction coil through the susceptor, and Therein, the first channel is arranged in a region provided at a lower portion of the base, and the second channel is arranged in a region provided at an upper portion of the base.

9. A method for operating an aerosol generating device, wherein: The operation method comprises: detecting, via the sensing module, whether an aerosol-generating article inserted into the housing space is at least partially moved from the housing space; and Based on detecting that the aerosol-generating article is at least partially moved from the housing space, power supply to the heater is controlled based on at least one of an induction change or a temperature change detected via the sensing module.

10. The operating method according to claim 9, wherein: The operation method also includes: Based on detecting that the aerosol-generating article is at least partially moved, detecting the sensing change via the sensing sensor within a specified time; and Based on the magnitude of the induction change being greater than or equal to a threshold, the power supply to the heater is maintained, or based on the magnitude of the induction change being less than the threshold, the power supply to the heater is cut off.

11. The operating method according to claim 9, wherein: The operation method also includes: cutting off power supplied from the battery to the heater according to a certain period of time; switching the state of the induction sensor to an enabled state while power supplied from the battery to the heater is cut off; and The induction change is detected via the induction sensor switched to the enabled state.

12. The operating method according to claim 11, wherein: The operation method also includes: relative to the aerosol generating article inserted into the housing space, detecting a first sensing change of the housing space according to the certain period of time; and Based on the detected magnitude of the first inductive change being greater than or equal to a first threshold, it is determined that the aerosol-generating article is at least partially moved from the housing space.

13. The operating method according to claim 11, wherein: The operation method also includes: Based on detecting that the aerosol generating article is at least partially moved from the housing space, detecting, via the sensing sensor, a second sensing change of the housing space within a specified time and according to the certain period of time; and Insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the accommodation space is detected based on the detected magnitude of the second sensing change being greater than or equal to a second threshold.

14. The operating method according to claim 9, wherein: The operating method also includes: detecting the induction change based on the induction change detected by each of the first channel and the second channel, wherein the first channel is configured to detect the induction change occurring due to the first part of the aerosol generating article, and the second channel is configured to detect the induction change occurring due to the second part of the aerosol generating article, and the second part is different from the first part.

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