Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. An aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure includes a battery, a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature of the battery, a plurality of heaters, and a controller. The controller is configured to determine a threshold value for a duty cycle corresponding to an output of the battery based on a temperature of the battery, and adjust at least one of duty cycles corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters based on a total duty cycle corresponding to the plurality of heaters being equal to or greater than the threshold value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device. Background Art

[0002] An aerosol generating device is a device that extracts certain components from a medium or substance by forming an aerosol. The medium may contain a multi-component substance. The substance contained in the medium may be a multi-component flavoring substance. For example, the substance contained in the medium may include a nicotine component, a herbal component, and / or a coffee component. Recently, various studies have been conducted on aerosol generating devices. Summary of the invention

[0003] Technical issues

[0004] The present disclosure is directed to solving the above-referenced problems and other problems.

[0005] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of ensuring control stability and heating performance of a heater based on the temperature of a battery.

[0006] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of ensuring control stability and heating performance of a heater based on a voltage currently output from a battery.

[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of ensuring control stability and heating performance of a heater based on the time for which power has been supplied from a battery.

[0008] Technical Solution

[0009] An aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned and other purposes may include a battery, a temperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of the battery, a plurality of heaters, and a controller. The controller may determine a threshold value for a duty cycle corresponding to an output of the battery based on the temperature of the battery, and adjust at least one of the duty cycles corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters based on the total duty cycle corresponding to the plurality of heaters being equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0010] An aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned and other purposes may include a battery, a temperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of the battery, a heater, and a controller. The controller may determine a threshold value for a duty cycle corresponding to an output of the battery based on the temperature of the battery, and adjust the duty cycle corresponding to the heater based on the duty cycle corresponding to the heater being equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0011] Beneficial Effects

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, control stability and heating performance of the heater may be ensured based on a voltage currently output from a battery.

[0013] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, control stability and heating performance of the heater may be ensured based on a voltage currently output from a battery.

[0014] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, control stability and heating performance of the heater can be ensured based on the time for which power has been supplied from the battery.

[0015] According to the following detailed description, additional applications of the present disclosure will become apparent. However, since those skilled in the art will clearly understand various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments (such as the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure) are given by way of example only. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0017] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figures 2 to 4 is a diagram for explaining an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 5 and Figure 6 is a diagram for explaining a rod according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7 and Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0021] Figures 9 to 15 2 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals even if they are shown in different drawings, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0023] In the following description, regarding constituent elements used in the following description, suffixes "module" and "unit" are used in consideration of convenience of description only. "Module" and "unit" do not have meanings or functions distinguished from each other.

[0024] In addition, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, when these descriptions may make the subject matter of the embodiments disclosed in this specification quite unclear, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations incorporated herein will be omitted. In addition, the drawings are provided only for a better understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and are not intended to limit the technical concepts disclosed in this specification. Therefore, it should be understood that the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0025] It should be understood that the terms "first", "second", etc. can be used in this article to describe various components. However, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component.

[0026] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as being “connected to” or “coupled to” another component, it can be directly connected to or coupled to the other component. However, it should be understood that intervening components may be present. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another component, there are no intervening components.

[0027] As used herein, the singular forms are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0028] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Reference Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 10 may include a communication interface 11 , an input / output interface 12 , an aerosol generating module 13 , a memory 14 , a sensor module 15 , a battery 16 and / or a controller 17 .

[0030] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may be composed of only a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be positioned in the main body. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may be composed of a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance and a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be positioned in at least one of the main body and the cartridge.

[0031] The communication interface 11 may include at least one communication module for communicating with an external device and / or a network. For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wired communication, such as a universal serial bus (USB). For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wireless communication, such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), ZigBee, or near field communication (NFC).

[0032] The input / output interface 12 may include an input device (not shown) for receiving commands from a user and / or an output device (not shown) for outputting information to the user. For example, the input device may include a touch pad, a physical button, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device may include a display device (e.g., a display or a light emitting diode (LED)) for outputting visual information, an audio device (e.g., a speaker or a buzzer) for outputting auditory information, a motor (e.g., a tactile effect) for outputting tactile information, etc.

[0033] The input / output interface 12 may transmit data corresponding to a command input by a user through an input device to another component (or other components) of the aerosol generating device 10. The input / output interface 12 may output information corresponding to data received from another component (or other components) of the aerosol generating device 10 through an output device.

[0034] The aerosol generating module 13 may generate aerosol from an aerosol generating substance. Here, the aerosol generating substance may be a substance capable of generating aerosol in a liquid, solid or gel state, or a combination of two or more aerosol generating substances.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the liquid aerosol generating material can be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing material with a volatile tobacco flavoring component. According to another embodiment, the liquid aerosol generating material can be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco material. For example, the liquid aerosol generating material can include water, solvent, nicotine, plant extract, condiments, flavorings, vitamin mixtures etc.

[0036] Solid aerosol generating material can comprise solid material based on tobacco raw material, for example reconstructed tobacco sheet, shredded tobacco or granular tobacco.In addition, solid aerosol generating material can comprise solid material with taste control agent and flavoring material.For example, taste control agent can comprise calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide etc.For example, flavoring material can comprise natural material such as herbal granules, or can comprise the material comprising aromatic component, for example silicon dioxide, zeolite or dextrin.

[0037] In addition, the aerosol-generating substance may also include an aerosol former, such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0038] The aerosol generating module 13 may include at least one heater (not shown).

[0039] The aerosol generating module 13 may include a resistance heater. For example, the resistance heater may include at least one conductive track. The resistance heater may be heated when current flows through the conductive track. At this time, the aerosol generating substance may be heated by the heated resistance heater.

[0040] The conductive track may include a resistive material. In one example, the conductive track may be formed of a metallic material. In another example, the conductive track may be formed of a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

[0041] The resistance heater may include a conductive track formed in any of a variety of shapes. For example, the conductive track may be formed in any of a tube, a plate, a needle, a rod, and a coil.

[0042] The aerosol generating module 13 may include a heater using an induction heating method. For example, the induction heater may include a conductive coil. The induction heater may generate an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically by adjusting the current flowing through the conductive coil. At this time, when an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic body, energy loss may occur in the magnetic body due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss. In addition, the lost energy may be released as heat energy. Therefore, an aerosol generating substance located adjacent to the magnetic body may be heated. Here, an object that generates heat due to a magnetic field may be referred to as a receptor.

[0043] At the same time, the aerosol generating module 13 may generate ultrasonic vibrations, thereby generating aerosol from the aerosol generating substance.

[0044] The aerosol generating device 10 may be referred to as an atomizer cartridge, an atomizer, or a vaporizer.

[0045] The memory 14 may store a program for processing and controlling each signal in the controller 17. The memory 14 may store processed data and data to be processed.

[0046] For example, the memory 14 may store applications designed to perform various tasks that may be processed by the controller 17. The memory 14 may selectively provide some of the stored applications in response to a request from the controller 17.

[0047] For example, the memory 14 may store data on the operating time of the aerosol generating device 10, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery 16 is used, at least one temperature profile, the user's inhalation pattern, and data on charging / discharging. Here, "puff" refers to inhalation by the user, and "inhalation" refers to the act of bringing air or other substances into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through the user's mouth or nose.

[0048] The memory 14 may include at least one of a volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM)), a non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory), a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid-state drive (SSD).

[0049] The sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor.

[0050] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for sensing suction (hereinafter referred to as a "suction sensor"). In this case, the suction sensor may be implemented as a proximity sensor such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, etc.

[0051] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for sensing puff (hereinafter referred to as a "puff sensor"). In this case, the puff sensor may be implemented by a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, and the like.

[0052] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a "temperature sensor") for sensing the temperature of a heater included in the aerosol generating module 13 and the temperature of the aerosol generating substance. In this case, the heater included in the aerosol generating module 13 may also be used as a temperature sensor. For example, the resistance material of the heater may be a material having a predetermined temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). The sensor module 15 may measure the resistance of the heater according to the temperature change, thereby sensing the temperature of the heater.

[0053] For example, in the case where the body of the aerosol generating device 10 is formed to allow a stick to be inserted therein, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for sensing the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as a “stick detection sensor”).

[0054] For example, in the case where the aerosol generating device 10 includes a cartridge, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for sensing the installation / removal of the cartridge and the position of the cartridge (hereinafter referred to as a “cartridge detection sensor”).

[0055] In this case, the rod detection sensor and / or the cartridge detection sensor may be implemented as an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (or Hall IC) using the Hall effect.

[0056] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a voltage sensor for sensing a voltage applied to a component (eg, the battery 16 ) provided in the aerosol generating device 10 and / or a current sensor for sensing a current.

[0057] The battery 16 may provide power for the operation of the aerosol generating device 10 under the control of the controller 17. The battery 16 may supply power to other components provided in the aerosol generating device 10. For example, the battery 16 may supply power to a communication module included in the communication interface 11, an output device included in the input / output interface 12, and a heater included in the aerosol generating module 13.

[0058] The battery 16 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 16 may be a lithium ion (Li ion) battery or a lithium polymer (Li polymer) battery. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, when the battery 16 is rechargeable, the charging rate (C rate) of the battery 16 may be 10C, and the discharging rate (C rate) thereof may be 10C to 20C. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In addition, for stable use, the battery 16 may be manufactured so that 80% or more of the total capacity can be ensured even when 2000 charge / discharges are performed.

[0059] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a protection circuit module (PCM) (not shown), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. The protection circuit module (PCM) may be disposed adjacent to the upper surface of the battery 16. For example, in order to prevent overcharge and overdischarge of the battery 16, the protection circuit module (PCM) may cut off an electrical path to the battery 16 when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 16, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 16, or when an overcurrent flows through the battery 16.

[0060] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a charging terminal to which power supplied from the outside is input. For example, the charging terminal may be formed at one side of the body of the aerosol generating device 10. The aerosol generating device 10 may charge the battery 16 using the power supplied through the charging terminal. In this case, the charging terminal may be configured as a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

[0061] The aerosol generating device 10 may wirelessly receive power supplied from the outside through the communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may wirelessly receive power using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication. The aerosol generating device 10 may charge the battery 16 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0062] The controller 17 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 10. The controller 17 may be connected to each of the components provided in the aerosol generating device 10. The controller 17 may send a signal to and / or receive a signal from each of the components, thereby controlling the overall operation of each of the components.

[0063] The controller 17 may include at least one processor. The controller 17 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 10 using the processor included therein. Here, the processor may be a general-purpose processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or may be any other hardware-based processor.

[0064] The controller 17 can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generating device 10. For example, the controller 17 can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generating device 10 (e.g., a preheating function, a heating function, a charging function, and a cleaning function) according to the state of each of the components provided in the aerosol generating device 10 and a command of a user received through the input / output interface 12.

[0065] The controller 17 may control the operation of each of the components provided in the aerosol generating device 10 based on the data stored in the memory 14. For example, the controller 17 may control, based on the data about the temperature profile and the user's inhalation pattern stored in the memory 14, such that a predetermined amount of power is supplied from the battery 16 to the aerosol generating module 13 within a predetermined time.

[0066] The controller 17 may determine the occurrence or non-occurrence of puff using the puff sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the controller 17 may check the temperature change, flow change, pressure change, and voltage change in the aerosol generating device 10 based on the value sensed by the puff sensor. The controller 17 may determine the occurrence or non-occurrence of puff based on the value sensed by the puff sensor.

[0067] The controller 17 may control the operation of each of the components provided in the aerosol generating device 10 according to the occurrence or non-occurrence of puffing and / or the number of puffs. For example, the controller 17 may control the temperature of the heater to be changed or maintained based on the temperature curve stored in the memory 14.

[0068] The controller 17 may control so that the power supply to the heater is interrupted according to a predetermined condition. For example, the controller 17 may control so that the power supply to the heater is interrupted when the stick is removed, when the cartridge is disassembled, when the number of puffs reaches a predetermined maximum number of puffs, when no puff is sensed during a predetermined period of time or longer, or when the remaining capacity of the battery 16 is less than a predetermined value.

[0069] The controller 17 may calculate the remaining capacity relative to the full capacity of the battery 16. For example, the controller 17 may calculate the capacity of the battery 16 based on values ​​sensed by a voltage sensor and / or a current sensor included in the sensor module 15.

[0070] The controller 17 may control such that power is supplied to the heater using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method or a proportional integral derivative (PID) method.

[0071] For example, the controller 17 may control so that a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and a predetermined duty ratio is supplied to the heater using a PWM method. In this case, the controller 17 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0072] For example, the controller 17 may determine a target temperature to be controlled based on the temperature curve. In this case, the controller 17 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater using a PID method that is a feedback control method using a difference between the temperature of the heater and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference with respect to time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference with respect to time.

[0073] Although the PWM method and the PID method are described as examples of methods of controlling power supply to the heater, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and various other control methods such as any one of a proportional integral (PI) method or a proportional differential (PD) method may be employed.

[0074] At the same time, the controller 17 can control so that the heater is powered according to a predetermined condition. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning the space into which the supply rod is inserted is selected in response to a command input by a user through the input / output interface 12, the controller 17 can control so that a predetermined amount of power is supplied to the heater.

[0075] Figures 2 to 4 It is a diagram for explaining an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a body 100 and / or a cartridge 200 .

[0077] Reference Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 10 according to the embodiment may include a body 100 formed so that the stick 20 may be inserted into an internal space formed by a housing 101 .

[0078] The stick 20 may be similar to a general combustion cigarette. For example, the stick 20 may be divided into a first portion including an aerosol generating material and a second portion including a filter or the like. Alternatively, the aerosol generating material may be included in the second portion of the stick 20. For example, a flavoring substance made in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

[0079] The entire first part is inserted into the insertion space of the aerosol generating device 10, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part may be inserted into the insertion space of the aerosol generating device 10, or a portion of the first part and the second part may be inserted. In this case, an aerosol may be generated by passing external air through the first part, and the generated aerosol may be delivered to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0080] The body 100 may be configured such that external air is introduced into the body 100 in a state in which the wand 20 is inserted into the body 100. In this case, the external air introduced into the body 100 may flow into the user's mouth via the wand 20.

[0081] The heater may be provided in the body 100 at a position corresponding to the position where the rod 20 is inserted into the body 100. Although the heater is illustrated in the drawings as a conductive heater 110 including a needle-shaped conductive track, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0082] The heater may heat the inside and / or outside of the rod 20 using the power supplied from the battery 16. An aerosol may be generated from the heated rod 20. At this point, the user may hold one end of the rod 20 in the mouth to inhale the aerosol containing the tobacco material.

[0083] At the same time, the controller 17 can control according to a predetermined condition so that power is supplied to the heater when the rod 20 is not inserted into the body. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning the space in which the rod 20 is inserted is selected in response to a command input by a user through the input / output interface 12, the controller 17 can control so that a predetermined amount of power is supplied to the heater.

[0084] The controller 17 may monitor the number of puffs based on a value sensed by the puff sensor from a time point when the wand 20 is inserted into the body.

[0085] When the wand 20 is removed from the body, the controller 17 may initialize the current number of puffs stored in the memory 14 .

[0086] Reference Figure 3 , the aerosol generating device 10 according to an embodiment may include a body 100 and a cartridge 200. The body 100 may support the cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 may contain an aerosol generating substance.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured to be detachably mounted to the body 100. According to another embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured integrally with the body 100. For example, the cartridge 200 may be mounted to the body 100 in such a manner that at least a portion of the cartridge 200 is inserted into an insertion space formed by the housing 101 of the body 100.

[0088] The body 100 may be formed to have a structure in which external air may be introduced into the body 100 in a state in which the cartridge 200 is inserted. Here, the external air introduced into the body 100 may flow into the user's mouth via the cartridge 200.

[0089] The controller 17 may determine whether the cartridge 200 is in the installed state or the removed state using the cartridge detection sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may transmit a pulse current through a first terminal connected to the cartridge 200. In this case, the controller 17 may determine whether the cartridge 200 is in the connected state based on whether the pulse current is received through the second terminal.

[0090] The cartridge 200 may include a first heater 210 configured to heat an aerosol generating substance and / or a reservoir 220 configured to hold an aerosol generating substance. For example, a liquid delivery element impregnated with (containing) an aerosol generating substance may be disposed inside the reservoir 220. The conductive track of the first heater 210 may be formed as a structure wound around the liquid delivery element. In this case, an aerosol may be generated when the liquid delivery element is heated by the first heater 210. Here, the liquid delivery element may include a core made of, for example, cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The reservoir 220 storing the liquid may be referred to as a chamber 220.

[0091] The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 configured to allow the rod 20 to be inserted. For example, the cartridge 200 may include an insertion space formed by an inner wall extending in a circumferential direction along a direction in which the rod 20 is inserted. In this case, the insertion space may be formed by opening the inner side of the inner wall up and down. The rod 20 may be inserted into the insertion space formed by the inner wall.

[0092] The insertion space into which the rod 20 is inserted may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of a portion of the rod 20 inserted into the insertion space. For example, when the rod 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0093] When the rod 20 is inserted into the insertion space, the outer surface of the rod 20 may be surrounded by and contact the inner wall.

[0094] A portion of the rod 20 may be inserted into the insertion space, and the rest of the rod 20 may be exposed to the outside.

[0095] The user can inhale the aerosol while biting one end of the stick 20 with the mouth. The aerosol generated by the heater 210 can pass through the stick 20 and be delivered to the user's mouth. At this time, when the aerosol passes through the stick 20, the material contained in the stick 20 can be added to the aerosol. The aerosol injected with the material can be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through one end of the stick 20.

[0096] The cartridge 200 may include a second heater 115 configured to heat the rod 20. The second heater 115 may be provided in the cartridge 200 at a position corresponding to the position of the rod 20 after being inserted into the insertion space 230. The second heater 115 may be implemented as a conductive heater and / or an induction heating type heater. The second heater 115 may heat the inside and / or outside of the rod 20 using power supplied from the battery 16.

[0097] Reference Figure 4 , the aerosol generating device 10 according to the embodiment may include a body 100 supporting a cartridge 200 and the cartridge 200 containing an aerosol generating substance. The body 100 may be formed in an insertion space 230 allowing the stick 20 to be inserted therein.

[0098] The aerosol generating device 10 may include a first heater 210 for heating the aerosol generating substance stored in the cartridge 200 and a second heater 115 for heating the stick 20 inserted into the body 100. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating substances stored in the cartridge 200 and the stick 20 using the first heater 210 and the second heater 115, respectively.

[0099] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described based on an embodiment in which the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130 defined in the housing 101 of the body 100 .

[0100] Figure 5 and Figure 6 It is a diagram for explaining a rod according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Reference Figure 5 , the rod 20 may include a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Figure 2 The first part described may include a tobacco rod. Figure 2 The second portion of the description may include the filter rod 22 .

[0102] Figure 5The filter rod 22 is shown to include a single segment. However, the filter rod 22 is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may include a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a first segment configured to cool the aerosol and a second segment configured to filter a specific component included in the aerosol. In addition, as needed, the filter rod 22 may also include at least one segment configured to perform other functions.

[0103] The diameter of the rod 20 may be in the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length of the rod 20 may be about 48 mm, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 12 mm, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0104] At least one wrapper 24 may be used to wrap the rod 20. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole through which external air may be introduced or internal air may be discharged. For example, one wrapper 24 may be used to wrap the rod 20. As another example, the rod 20 may be doubly wrapped using at least two wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped using a first wrapper 241. For example, the filter rod 22 may be wrapped using wrappers 242, 243, 244. The tobacco rod 21 and the filter rod 22 wrapped by the wrapper may be combined. The rod 20 may be rewrapped by a single wrapper 245. When each of the tobacco rod 21 and the filter rod 22 includes a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped using wrappers 242, 243, 244. The entire rod 20 consisting of a plurality of segments wrapped by the wrapper may be rewrapped by another wrapper.

[0105] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be formed of a general filter wrapper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be porous wrappers or non-porous wrappers. In addition, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of oil-resistant paper and aluminum laminated packaging materials.

[0106] The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 88 g / m2 to 96 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 90 g / m2 to 94 g / m2. In addition, the total thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 1200 μm to 1300 μm. For example, the total thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be 125 μm.

[0107] The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of about 88 g / m2 to about 96 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 90 g / m2 to 94 g / m2. In addition, the total thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 1200 μm to 1300 μm. For example, the total thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be 125 μm.

[0108] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of sterilization paper (MFW). Here, MFW refers to paper specially made to have enhanced tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 57 g / m2 to 63 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be about 60 g / m2. In addition, the total thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the total thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be 67 μm.

[0109] A predetermined material may be included in the fifth wrapper 245. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon exhibits properties such as heat resistance that hardly changes due to temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water resistance, electrical insulation, etc. However, any material other than silicon may be applied to (or coated on) the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation as long as the material has the above-mentioned properties.

[0110] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the rod 20 from burning. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 110, there is a possibility that the rod 20 burns. Specifically, when the temperature rises to a temperature higher than the ignition point of any material included in the tobacco rod 21, the rod 20 may burn. Even in this case, since the fifth wrapper 245 includes a non-combustible material, the burning of the rod 20 can be prevented.

[0111] In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generating device 10 from being contaminated by the substance formed by the stick 20. Through the user's suction, a liquid substance can be formed in the stick 20. For example, when the aerosol formed by the stick 20 is cooled by the external air, a liquid material (e.g., moisture, etc.) can be formed. When the fifth wrapper 245 wraps the stick 20, the liquid material formed in the stick 20 can be prevented from leaking out of the stick 20.

[0112] The tobacco rod 21 may include an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol generating material 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. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may include a flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, which is injected into the tobacco rod 21.

[0113] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various forms. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be formed into a sheet or a strand. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 can be formed into a tube tobacco, which is formed by tiny fragments cut from a tobacco sheet. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, thereby increasing the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod and improving the taste of the tobacco. In addition, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can be used as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Here, although not shown in the figure, in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21, the tobacco rod 21 can also include an additional susceptor.

[0114] The filter rod 22 may include a cellulose acetate filter. The shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod with a hollow interior. In addition, the filter rod 22 may include a concave-shaped rod. When the filter rod 22 includes a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may have a different shape.

[0115] The first section of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first section may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first section may prevent the inner material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed back when the heater 110 is inserted into the tobacco rod 21, and may also provide a cooling effect for the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow portion included in the first section may be an appropriate diameter within a range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0116] The length of the first segment may be an appropriate length in the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the first segment may be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0117] The second section of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated when the paper heater 110 heats the tobacco rod 21. Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled at an appropriate temperature.

[0118] The length or diameter of the second segment may be variously determined according to the shape of the rod 20. For example, the length of the second segment may be an appropriate length in the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment may be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0119] The second segment may be manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, the flavoring liquid may also be applied to the fibers formed from the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be manufactured by weaving together additional fibers coated with the flavoring liquid and the fibers formed from the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be formed from a curled polymer sheet.

[0120] For example, the polymer may be formed of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0121] When the second segment is formed of woven polymer fibers or curled polymer sheets, the second segment may include a single channel or multiple channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, the channel refers to a passage through which a gas (eg, air or aerosol) passes.

[0122] For example, the second segment formed of the curled polymer sheet may be formed of a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm (e.g., between about 10 μm and about 250 μm). In addition, the total surface area of ​​the second segment may be between about 300 mm2 / mm and about 1000 mm2 / mm. In addition, the aerosol-cooling element may be formed of a material having a specific surface area between about 10 mm2 / mg and about 100 mm2 / mg.

[0123] The second segment may include a line containing a volatile flavoring ingredient. Here, the volatile flavoring ingredient may be menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the line may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0124] The third section of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third section may be an appropriate length in the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third section may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0125] The filter rod 22 can be manufactured to generate a flavor. For example, a flavored liquid can be injected into the filter rod 22. For example, additional fibers coated with a flavored liquid can be inserted into the filter rod 22.

[0126] In addition, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may generate a flavor. The capsule 23 may generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a configuration in which a liquid including a flavoring material is wrapped with a film. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0127] Reference Figure 6, the rod 20 may further include a front end plug 33. The front end plug 33 may be located on a side of the tobacco rod 31 that does not face the filter rod 22. The front end plug 33 may prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching during smoking and prevent the liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generating device 10.

[0128] The filter rod 22 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. The first segment 321 may correspond to Figure 4 The first segment of the filter rod 22. The second segment 322 may correspond to Figure 4 The third segment of the filter rod 22.

[0129] The diameter and overall length of the rod 20 may correspond to Figure 4 The diameter and total length of the rod 20. For example, the length of the front end plug 33 may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be about 14 mm, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0130] At least one wrapper 35 may be used to wrap the rod 20. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole through which external air may be introduced or internal air may be exhausted. For example, the front end plug 33 may be wrapped with a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped with a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped with a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped with a fourth wrapper 354. In addition, the entire rod 20 may be rewrapped with a fifth wrapper 355.

[0131] In addition, the fifth wrapper 355 may have at least one perforation 36 formed therein. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the area of ​​the fifth wrapper 355 surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed by Figure 3 The heat generated by the heater 210 is shown to be transferred into the tobacco rod 31.

[0132] In addition, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may generate a flavor. The capsule 34 may generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a configuration in which a liquid including a flavoring material is wrapped with a film. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0133] The first wrapper 351 may be formed by combining a general filter wrapping paper with a metal foil such as an aluminum foil. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be 50.3 μm. In addition, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be 6.3 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 50 g / m2 to 55 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be 53 g / m2.

[0134] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be formed by a common filter wrapper paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be a porous wrapper paper or a non-porous wrapper paper.

[0135] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 20 g / m2 to 25 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be 23.5 g / m2.

[0136] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be 24000CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of about 60 μm to about 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of about 20 g / m2 to about 25 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be 21 g / m2.

[0137] The fourth wrapper 354 may be formed of PLA laminated paper. The PLA laminated paper refers to a three-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 100 μm to 1200 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 110 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 80 g / m2 to 100 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 88 g / m2.

[0138] The fifth wrapper 355 may be formed of sterilization paper (MFW). Here, sterilization paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have enhanced tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 57 g / m2 to 63 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be 60 g / m2. In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be 67 μm.

[0139] The fifth wrapper 355 may include a preset material added thereto. Examples of the material may include silicon, but are not limited thereto. Silicon has properties such as heat resistance to temperature conditions, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water resistance, and electrical insulation. In addition to silicon, any other material having the properties described above may be applied to (or coated on) the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0140] The front end plug 33 may be formed of cellulose acetate. For example, the front end plug 33 may be formed by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to a cellulose acetate tow. The single fineness of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the single fineness of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. For example, the single fineness of the filaments of the front end plug 33 may be 5.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total fineness of the front end plug 33 may be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total fineness of the front end plug 33 may be in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. For example, the total fineness of the front end plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0141] In addition, the front end plug 33 may include at least one channel as required. The cross-sectional shape of the channel may be manufactured into various shapes.

[0142] The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the Figure 4 Therefore, hereinafter, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted.

[0143] The first segment 321 may be formed of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment 321 may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. For example, the single fiber and total fiber of the first segment 321 may be the same as the single fiber and total fiber of the front end plug 33.

[0144] The second segment 322 may be formed of cellulose acetate. The single fineness of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the single fineness of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be in the range of about 8.0 to about 10.0. For example, the single fineness of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be Y-shaped. The total fineness of the second segment 322 may be in the range of 20000 to 30000. For example, the total fineness of the second segment 322 may be 25000.

[0145] Figure 7 and Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating the aerosol generating device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] Reference Figure 7 In operation S710, the aerosol generating device 10 may detect the voltage of the battery 16 through a temperature sensor configured to sense the temperature of the battery 16. For example, the power of the aerosol generating device 10 may be turned on based on the insertion of the stick 20 into the insertion space 130 formed in the housing 101. At this time, the aerosol generating device 10 may detect the temperature of the battery 16. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may detect the temperature of the battery 16 according to a predetermined period.

[0147] Regarding the detection of the temperature of the battery 16, reference will be made to Fig. 9 Give a description.

[0148] Reference Fig. 9 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an insertion space into which the rod 20 is inserted may be defined in an upper end of the housing 101 of the aerosol generating device 10 .

[0149] The insertion space may be formed to be recessed to a predetermined depth toward the inside of the housing 101 so that the rod 20 is at least partially inserted therein. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the portion of the rod 20 that accommodates the aerosol generating substance. Figure 5 In the case where the rod 20 shown in FIG. 1 can be used in an aerosol generating device 10 , the depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the tobacco rod 21 of the rod 20 .

[0150] Components such as the battery 16 , the printed circuit board 910 , and the heater may be disposed in the housing 101 of the aerosol generating device 10 .

[0151] The components of the aerosol generating device 10 may be mounted on one surface and / or opposite surfaces of the printed circuit board 910. The components mounted on the printed circuit board 910 may transmit or receive signals therebetween through a wiring layer of the printed circuit board 910. For example, at least one communication module included in the communication interface 11, at least one sensor included in the sensor module 15, the controller 17, etc. may be mounted on the printed circuit board 910.

[0152] The printed circuit board 910 may be disposed adjacent to the battery 16. For example, the printed circuit board 910 may be disposed so that one surface thereof faces the battery 16.

[0153] The display 920 may be provided at one side of the housing 101. The display 920 may display a screen in response to a signal transmitted from the controller 17.

[0154] The power terminal 930 may be provided at one side of the housing 101 of the aerosol generating device 10. The power terminal 930 may be a wired terminal for wired communication such as USB.

[0155] The power circuit may be provided between the battery 16 and the power terminal 930. The power circuit may transmit power supplied from the outside to the battery 16 through the power terminal 930. A power line 935 for supplying power may be connected to the power terminal 930. For example, the power terminal 930 may be coupled to a connector of the power line 935. The controller 17 may determine whether the power line 935 is connected to the power terminal 930. For example, the controller 17 may determine whether the power line 935 is connected to the power terminal 930 based on a signal generated in response to a connection between the power terminal 930 and the power line 935.

[0156] A motor 940 that generates vibration for a haptic effect may be provided in the housing 101. The motor 940 may adjust a period and / or intensity of the vibration based on a signal transmitted from the controller 17.

[0157] A temperature sensor 950 that senses the temperature of the battery 16 may be provided in the housing 101. The temperature sensor 950 may be provided adjacent to the battery 16. For example, the temperature sensor 950 may be mounted on one surface of the battery 16. Meanwhile, the temperature sensor 950 may be mounted on one surface of the printed circuit board 910.

[0158] The temperature sensor 950 may be implemented using a thermistor, which is a device whose resistance changes with temperature, etc. For example, the temperature sensor 950 may include a negative temperature coefficient thermistor (NTC thermistor), whose resistance decreases with increasing temperature.

[0159] The structure of the aerosol generating device 10 is not limited to Fig. 9In some embodiments, the arrangement of the battery 16, the printed circuit board 910, the display 920, the power terminal 930, the motor 940, the temperature sensor 950, etc. may vary.

[0160] In operation S720 , the aerosol generating device 10 may determine a threshold value (hereinafter referred to as a power threshold value) for a duty ratio corresponding to the output of the battery 16 based on the temperature of the battery 16 .

[0161] When the temperature of the battery 16 is less than a certain temperature, the performance of the battery 16 may be deteriorated due to reasons such as a significant decrease in the mobility of lithium ions. At this time, when the output of the battery 16 decreases due to the performance degradation of the battery 16, the user may not be able to use the aerosol generating device 10 due to the operation of the protection circuit module (PCM). In view of this, the aerosol generating device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may determine the power threshold value based on the temperature of the battery 16. Figure 8 Determination of the power threshold based on the temperature of the battery 16 will be described.

[0162] Reference Figure 8 In operation S810, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine a threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 based on a lookup table stored in the memory 14, the lookup table being related to a correspondence between at least one temperature and at least one threshold value in the battery 16. Here, the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 may increase in response to an increase in the temperature of the battery 16 within a predetermined temperature range.

[0163] Reference Fig.10 , when the temperature of the battery 16 is less than a predetermined minimum temperature (e.g., -15°C), the aerosol generating device 10 may determine that it is impossible to supply power to the heaters 115 and 210. At this time, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 to be 0% based on the fact that the temperature of the battery 16 is less than -15°C, which is the predetermined minimum temperature. At this time, when the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 is determined to be 0%, the power supply to the heaters 115 and 210 may be cut off.

[0164] When the temperature of the battery 16 is equal to or greater than a predetermined minimum temperature (e.g., -15°C), the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 may increase in proportion to the increase in the temperature of the battery 16. The threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 may increase to a predetermined maximum duty cycle Dmax. Here, the maximum duty cycle Dmax may be a preset duty cycle (e.g., 90%) in consideration of stably supplying power to components (e.g., heaters 115 and 210) included in the aerosol generating device 10.

[0165] On the other hand, when the temperature of the battery 16 is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference temperature (eg, 10° C.), the aerosol generating device 10 may determine a threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 as the maximum duty cycle Dmax.

[0166] In operation S820, the aerosol generating device 10 may adjust a threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 based on a time during which power is supplied to the heaters 115 and 210 (hereinafter referred to as a heating time). Here, the heating time may be a time elapsed from a point in time when power is supplied to the heaters 115 and 210 after the aerosol generating device 10 is turned on. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may start supplying power to the heaters 115 and 210 based on inserting the stick 20 into the insertion space 130 formed in the housing 101.

[0167] When the aerosol generating device 10 is powered from the battery 16 after being turned on, a voltage drop may occur at the output of the battery 16. For example, when a surge current flows due to the charge state of a capacitor among the components included in the aerosol generating device 10, a voltage drop may occur at the output voltage of the battery 16. In view of this, the aerosol generating device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may adjust a threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 based on a heating time. On the other hand, according to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may adjust a threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 based on a time elapsed from a time point when power is started from the battery 16 after the aerosol generating device 10 is turned on.

[0168] The threshold value adjusted based on the heating time may be less than or equal to the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16. At this time, the difference between the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 and the adjusted threshold value may decrease in response to an increase in the heating time. That is, as the heating time increases, the degree to which the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 is adjusted according to the heating time may decrease.

[0169] Reference Fig.11 , the aerosol generating device 10 may adjust the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 based on the adjustment ratio corresponding to the heating time. The aerosol generating device 10 may determine the result obtained by multiplying the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 by the adjustment ratio corresponding to the heating time as the adjusted threshold value.

[0170] The adjustment ratio corresponding to the heating time may be increased corresponding to the increase in the heating time. For example, the adjustment ratio may be increased stepwise by 10% from a minimum ratio of 20% corresponding to the increase in the heating time. At this time, the adjustment ratio may be increased to 100%, which is the maximum ratio. Meanwhile, when a predetermined time has passed from the time point when power is started to be supplied to the heaters 115 and 210, the adjustment ratio may be determined to be 100%. That is, after a predetermined time has passed from the time point when power is started to be supplied to the heaters 115 and 210, the adjustment based on the heating time with respect to the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 may be omitted.

[0171] In operation S830, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine whether the output of the battery 16 is less than a predetermined reference voltage. Here, the reference voltage may correspond to a voltage at which a protection circuit module (PCM) operates to prevent over-discharge of the battery 16. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine whether the output of the battery 16 is less than 2.8V set as the reference voltage.

[0172] In operation S840, when the output of the battery 16 is less than the reference voltage, the aerosol generating device 10 may increase the cumulative number of times the input of the battery 16 is less than the reference voltage. For example, when the output of the battery 16 is less than the reference voltage, the aerosol generating device 10 may increase the cumulative number by 1.

[0173] Meanwhile, in operation S850, the aerosol generating device 10 may initialize the cumulative number of times when the output of the battery 16 is equal to or greater than the reference voltage. For example, when the output of the battery 16 is equal to or greater than the reference voltage, the aerosol generating device 10 may initialize the cumulative number of times to 0.

[0174] In operation S860, the aerosol generating device 10 may adjust the threshold corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 according to the cumulative number of times. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may additionally adjust the threshold corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 adjusted based on the heating time according to the cumulative number of times.

[0175] The threshold value adjusted according to the cumulative number of times may be less than or equal to the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16. In this case, the difference between the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 and the threshold value adjusted according to the cumulative number of times may increase in correspondence with the increase in the cumulative number of times. That is, as the number of times the output of the battery 16 is less than the reference voltage increases, the degree of adjustment of the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 may increase according to the cumulative number of times. For example, when the cumulative number of times is 1, the aerosol generating device 10 may reduce the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 by 1%. For example, when the cumulative number of times is 5, the aerosol generating device 10 may reduce the threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 by 5%.

[0176] Reference Figure 7 In operation S730, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine a total duty cycle corresponding to the heaters. For example, when a plurality of heaters 115 and 210 are included, the aerosol generating device 10 may determine a result obtained by adding the duty cycles corresponding to the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 as the total duty cycle. For example, when the duty cycle corresponding to the first heater 210 is 50% and the duty cycle corresponding to the second heater 115 is 30%, the total duty cycle may be calculated to be 80%.

[0177] Reference Fig.12 When a plurality of heaters 115 and 210 are included, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a power supply circuit 1210 , a first switching element 1220 corresponding to the first heater 210 , and / or a second switching element 1230 corresponding to the second heater 115 .

[0178] The power circuit 1210 may be electrically connected to the battery 16. The power circuit 1210 may supply power to each component of the aerosol generating device 10 based on the power stored in the battery 16. For example, the power circuit 1210 may supply power to the plurality of heaters 115 and 210, respectively.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the power circuit 1210 may convert the voltage output from the battery 16. For example, the power circuit 1210 may include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the battery 16. In the present disclosure, the buck converter is described as an example of a configuration for converting voltage, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the power circuit 1210 may include a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.

[0180] According to one embodiment, the power circuit 1210 may output an AC current having a predetermined frequency. The power circuit 1210 may output an AC current based on the DC voltage of the battery 16. Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, the power circuit 1210 is described as outputting an AC current, but it is understood that the power circuit 1210 outputs an AC voltage or an AC power. For example, when the second heater 115 is an induction heater, the power circuit 1210 may output an AC current having a predetermined frequency to the second heater 115.

[0181] The power supply circuit 1210 may include an inverter that converts a DC current into an AC current. The inverter may output an AC current according to the operation of a plurality of switching elements. For example, when a plurality of switching elements included in the inverter are insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), the controller 17 may output a switching signal corresponding to a predetermined frequency to the gate of the switching element. In this case, an AC current having a predetermined frequency may be output from the power supply circuit 1210 by the operation of the switching element according to the switching signal. Here, the switching signal may be a PWM signal. Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, an IGBT is described as an example of a switching element, but embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0182] The first switch element 1220 and / or the second switch element 1230 may be operated based on the control signals PWM1 and PWM2 output from the controller 17. The first switch element 1220 and / or the second switch element 1230 may be transistor elements. For example, the first switch element 1220 and / or the second switch element 1230 may be implemented by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), etc. Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, a transistor element is described as an example of the first switch element 1220 and / or the second switch element 1230, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0183] The control signals PWM1 and PWM2 output from the controller 17 may be pulse currents having a predetermined duty cycle. The controller 17 may adjust the power supplied to at least one of the heaters 115 and 210 by adjusting the duty cycle of the control signals PWM1 and PWM2 input to the first switching element 1220 and / or the second switching element 1230.

[0184] The aerosol generating device 10 may determine a value obtained by adding the duty ratios of the control signals PWM1 and PWM2 input to the first switching element 1220 and / or the second switching element 1230 as a total duty ratio corresponding to the heater.

[0185] According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 includes one heater (eg, heater 110 ), the duty cycle corresponding to the heater may be determined as the total duty cycle.

[0186] In operation S740 , the aerosol generating device 10 may determine whether a total duty cycle corresponding to the heater exceeds a power threshold.

[0187] In operation S750 , the aerosol generating device 10 may adjust the duty cycle corresponding to the heater based on the total duty cycle corresponding to the heater exceeding the power threshold.

[0188] According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 includes one heater (eg, heater 110 ), the duty ratio corresponding to the heater 110 may be adjusted.

[0189] Reference Fig.13 , the aerosol generating device 10 may reduce the duty cycle corresponding to the heater 110 to a power threshold or less (1310). At this time, in response to the reduction in the duty cycle corresponding to the heater 110, the power supplied to the heater 110 may be reduced to a power less than or equal to the power corresponding to the power threshold (1320).

[0190] According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 includes a plurality of heaters 115 and 210 , at least one of the duty ratios corresponding to the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 may be adjusted.

[0191] Reference Fig.14 , the aerosol generating device 10 may reduce one of the duty cycles corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 by the difference between the total duty cycle and the power threshold (1410 and 1420). In this case, in response to the reduction in the duty cycle corresponding to any one of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210, the power supplied to the heater 110 may be reduced to below the power corresponding to the power threshold (1430).

[0192] At the same time, the aerosol generating device 10 may reduce all duty cycles corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210. In this case, the total reduction in duty cycle corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 may correspond to the difference between the total duty cycle and the power threshold.

[0193] According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 includes a plurality of heaters 115 and 210, at least one of the duty ratios corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 may be adjusted based on the priority of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210. Here, the priority of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 may be changed according to a user input. For example, the priority of the first heater 210 for heating the liquid aerosol generating substance may be higher than the priority of the second heater 115 for heating the rod 20. At this time, the aerosol generating device 10 may reduce the duty ratio corresponding to the second heater 115 having a lower priority among the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 by the difference between the total duty ratio and the power threshold.

[0194] At the same time, the aerosol generating device 10 may reduce all duty cycles corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210. In this case, based on the fact that the priority of the first heater 210 is higher than that of the second heater 115, the decrement of the duty cycle corresponding to the second heater 115 may be greater than the decrement of the duty cycle corresponding to the first heater 210. At the same time, the sum of the decrement of the duty cycle corresponding to the first heater 210 and the decrement of the duty cycle corresponding to the second heater 115 may correspond to the difference between the total duty cycle and the power threshold.

[0195] In operation S760, the aerosol generating device 10 may supply power to the heater based on a duty ratio corresponding to the heater. For example, when the aerosol generating device 10 includes a plurality of heaters 115 and 210, power may be supplied to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 based on a duty ratio corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210.

[0196] According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may perform, according to a predetermined cycle, an operation of adjusting the duty ratio corresponding to the heater according to a power threshold value determined based on the temperature of the battery 16. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may perform an operation of determining the power threshold value based on the temperature of the battery 16 and an operation of adjusting the duty ratio corresponding to the heater based on the power threshold value according to a control cycle associated with a PID method using feedback.

[0197] According to one embodiment, in a case where the aerosol generating device 10 includes multiple heaters 115 and 210, the phase of the working section in which power is supplied to the multiple heaters 115 and 210 may be adjusted based on the total duty cycle corresponding to the heaters exceeding a power threshold.

[0198] Reference Fig.15 , the aerosol generating device 10 may adjust the stage of the working section corresponding to one of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 so that the working sections corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 do not overlap with each other (1510, 1520). At this time, the power supplied to the heaters 115 and 210 may be less than or equal to the power corresponding to the power threshold in the working section corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115 and 210 (1530).

[0199] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the control stability and the heating performance of the heater 115 , 210 may be ensured based on the voltage currently output from the battery 16 .

[0200] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, control stability and heating performance of the heater 115 , 210 may be ensured based on the voltage currently output from the battery 16 .

[0201] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, control stability and heating performance of the heater 115 , 210 may be ensured based on the time for which power has been supplied from the battery 16 .

[0202] Reference Figures 1 to 15 , the aerosol generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a battery 16, a temperature sensor 950 configured to sense the temperature of the battery 16, a plurality of heaters 115 and 210, and a controller 17. The controller 17 may determine a threshold value for a duty cycle corresponding to an output of the battery 16 based on the temperature of the battery 16, and adjust at least one duty cycle corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115, 210 based on the total duty cycle corresponding to the plurality of heaters 115, 210 being equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0203] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a chamber 220 configured to store liquid and a housing 101 having an elongated insertion space 130. The plurality of heaters 115, 210 may include a first heater 210 configured to heat the liquid and a second heater 115 configured to heat a rod inserted into the insertion space 130.

[0204] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may reduce a duty ratio corresponding to a heater having the lowest priority among the plurality of heaters 115 , 210 based on the priorities of the plurality of heaters 115 , 210 .

[0205] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may reduce the duty cycle corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115, 210 based on the priorities of the plurality of heaters 115, 210. Based on the priority of the second heater 115 being higher than the priority of the first heater, the first decrement of the duty cycle corresponding to the first heater 210 may be greater than the second decrement of the duty cycle corresponding to the second heater 115.

[0206] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may determine a first threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 based on the heating time during which power is supplied to at least one of the plurality of heaters 115, 210, and determine a second threshold value less than or equal to the first threshold value as a threshold value for the total duty cycle. The difference between the first threshold value and the second threshold value may decrease correspondingly to an increase in the heating time.

[0207] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may calculate a value obtained by multiplying the first threshold by an adjustment ratio corresponding to the heating time as the second threshold. The adjustment ratio may increase corresponding to an increase in the heating time.

[0208] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may determine a first threshold value corresponding to the temperature of the battery 16 based on the cumulative number of times that the output of the battery 16 is less than a predetermined reference voltage, and determine a second threshold value equal to or less than the first threshold value as a threshold value for the total duty cycle. The difference between the first threshold value and the second threshold value may increase correspondingly to an increase in the cumulative number of times.

[0209] Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the controller 17 may initialize the accumulation number based on the output of the battery 16 being equal to or greater than the reference voltage, and increase the accumulation number based on the output of the battery 16 being less than the reference voltage.

[0210] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device 10 may further include a first switching element 1220 electrically connected to a first heater 210 among the plurality of heaters 115, 210 and a second switching element 1230 electrically connected to a second heater 115 among the plurality of heaters 115, 210. The controller 17 may control the operation of each of the first switching element and the second switching element based on a duty ratio corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters 115, 210.

[0211] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned and other objects, the aerosol generating device may include a battery 16, a temperature sensor 950 configured to sense the temperature of the battery 16, a heater 110, and a controller 17. The controller 17 may be configured to determine a threshold value for a duty cycle corresponding to the output of the battery 16 based on the temperature of the battery 16, and adjust the duty cycle corresponding to the heater 110 based on the duty cycle corresponding to the heater 110 being equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0212] Certain embodiments or other embodiments disclosed above are not mutually exclusive or different from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments disclosed above may be combined with one another or with each other in configuration or function.

[0213] For example, configuration "A" described in one embodiment and the drawings of the present disclosure and configuration "B" described in another embodiment and the drawings of the present disclosure may be combined with each other. That is, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except when it is described that the combination is impossible.

[0214] Although the embodiments have been described with reference to a number of exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated that those skilled in the art may devise many other modifications and embodiments that fall within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure. More specifically, various changes and modifications may be made in the components and / or arrangements of the subject combination arrangements within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to changes and modifications in the components and / or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: Battery; a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature of the battery; Multiple heaters; as well as A controller, the controller being configured to: determining a threshold value for a duty cycle corresponding to an output of the battery based on a temperature of the battery; and At least one duty ratio among the duty ratios corresponding to the plurality of heaters is adjusted based on that a total duty ratio of the plurality of heaters is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a chamber configured to store a liquid; as well as a housing having an elongated insertion space, Wherein, the plurality of heaters include: a first heater configured to heat the liquid; and A second heater is configured to heat the rod inserted into the insertion space.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is configured to adjust the at least one duty cycle by reducing a duty cycle corresponding to a heater having a lowest priority among the plurality of heaters.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is configured to adjust the at least one duty cycle by reducing a duty cycle corresponding to each of the plurality of heaters based on corresponding priorities of the plurality of heaters, and Wherein, based on the priority of the second heater being higher than the priority of the first heater, a first decrement of the duty ratio corresponding to the first heater is greater than a second decrement of the duty ratio corresponding to the second heater.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is configured to: determining a first threshold value corresponding to a temperature of the battery, and determining a second threshold value that is less than or equal to the first threshold value as a threshold value for the total duty cycle, wherein the second threshold is determined based on a heating time during which power is supplied to at least one of the plurality of heaters, and The difference between the first threshold and the second threshold decreases as the heating time increases.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein: The second threshold is obtained by multiplying the first threshold by an adjustment ratio corresponding to the heating time, Wherein, the adjustment ratio increases as the heating time increases.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is configured to: determining a first threshold value corresponding to a temperature of the battery, and determining a second threshold value that is less than or equal to the first threshold value as a threshold value for the total duty cycle, wherein the second threshold is determined based on a counter indicating a cumulative number of times the output of the battery is determined to be less than a predetermined reference voltage, and The difference between the first threshold and the second threshold increases as the counter indicating the accumulation number increases.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein: The controller is configured to: initializing the counter indicating the number of accumulations based on the output of the battery being determined to be equal to or greater than the reference voltage, and The counter is incremented based on the output of the battery being determined to be less than the reference voltage.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first switching element electrically connected to a first heater among the plurality of heaters; as well as a second switching element electrically connected to a second heater among the plurality of heaters, wherein the controller is configured to control an operation of each of the first switching element and the second switching element based on a duty ratio corresponding to the plurality of heaters.

10. An aerosol generating device, comprising: Battery; a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature of the battery; Heater; as well as A controller, the controller being configured to: determining a threshold value for a duty cycle corresponding to an output of the battery based on a temperature of the battery, and The duty ratio corresponding to the heater is adjusted based on that the duty ratio corresponding to the heater is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

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