Aerosol generating device comprising a light

Abstract

According to an embodiment, an aerosol-generating device includes: a housing including an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol-generating article; a light emitting device emitting light through a single light source in the housing; and a processor configured to: receive a detection input of an event; determining a control mode of supplying power to the single light source of the light emitting device based on a detection input of the event; and supplying power to the single light source according to a first control mode based on a detection input of the event corresponding to a first event, and supplying power to the single light source according to a second control mode based on a detection input of the event corresponding to a second event different from the first event.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device for outputting various status information through a light emitting device. Background Art

[0002] Recently, the demand for alternative methods for overcoming the disadvantages of ordinary cigarettes has increased. For example, there is an increasing demand for systems that generate aerosol by heating a cigarette or an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generating device rather than by burning the cigarette.

[0003] The aerosol generating device may include a component for displaying the status of the device to a user. For example, the aerosol generating device may output the device status by controlling a display type component such as an organic light emitting diode (OLED) or a liquid crystal display (LCD) or respectively controlling a light emitting diode (LED).

[0004] Recently, there has been a trend to reduce the size and weight of aerosol-generating devices to improve portability for users. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues When an aerosol generating device includes a display-type component or a plurality of light emitting diodes, the material cost of the device and the number of components that should be arranged in a limited space in the device increase, and thus such a device may not meet the trend of miniaturization and lightweighting.

[0006] One or more embodiments provide an aerosol generating device capable of displaying various information for a user through a light emitting device having a single light source by differently setting a control mode of supplying power to the light emitting device according to a detection input of an event.

[0007] The technical problems of the present disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned description, and unstated technical problems may be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the embodiments and accompanying drawings described below.

[0008] Technical Solution According to one or more embodiments, an aerosol generating device includes: a shell including a accommodating space configured to accommodate an aerosol generating product; a light-emitting device arranged in the shell and configured to emit light through a single light source; and a processor configured to: receive a detection input of an event; determine a control mode for supplying power to the single light source of the light-emitting device based on the received detection input of the event; and supply power to the single light source according to a first control mode based on the detection input of the event corresponding to a first event, and supply power to the single light source according to a second control mode based on the detection input of the event corresponding to a second event different from the first event.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments, an operating method of an aerosol generating device includes: receiving a detection input of an event; determining a control mode for supplying power to a single light source of a light-emitting device based on the detection input received of the event; and supplying power to the single light source according to a first control mode based on the detection input of the event corresponding to a first event, and supplying power to the single light source according to a second control mode based on the detection input of the event corresponding to a second event different from the first event.

[0010] Beneficial effects According to one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating device can provide visual information, allowing the user to visually clearly identify the light emission pattern by differently controlling the light emission of the light emitting device including a single light source according to the type of event detected. In addition, by adopting the light emitting device including a single light source, various aspects associated with the cost of manufacturing the aerosol generating device and the efficiency of the manufacturing process can be improved.

[0011] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and effects that are not described herein can be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the present specification and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling power supply to a light emitting device of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 An example is shown in which the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment controls power supply according to the first control mode.

[0016] Figure 5A Shown according to Figure 4 An example of power supply in the first control mode.

[0017] Figure 5B Shown according to Figure 4 Another example of the first control mode power supply.

[0018] Figure 5C Shown according to Figure 4 Another example of the first control mode power supply.

[0019] Figure 6 An example is shown in which the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment controls power supply according to the second control mode.

[0020] Figure 7 Shown according to Figure 6 An example of power supply in the second control mode.

[0021] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling power supply to a light emitting device of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 9 An example is shown in which the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment controls power supply according to the third control mode.

[0023] Fig.10 An example is shown in which an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment displays the type of an inserted aerosol-generating article according to different control modes.

[0024] Fig.11 An example is shown in which the aerosol-generating device according to the embodiment controls power supply based on connection with an external device.

[0025] Fig.12 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Regarding the terms in the various embodiments, current and widely used general terms are selected in consideration of the functions of the structural elements in the various embodiments of the present disclosure. However, the meaning of the terms may change according to intention, judicial precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in some cases, the terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant in specific circumstances. In this case, the meaning of the terms will be described in detail at the corresponding parts 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 terms and the description provided herein.

[0027] In addition, unless there is a clear description to the contrary, the word "include" and variations such as "include" or "contain" will be understood to imply the inclusion of the elements but not the exclusion of any other elements. In addition, the terms "-tool", "-device" and "module" described in the specification represent units for processing at least one function and operation, and can be implemented by hardware components or software components and a combination thereof.

[0028] As used herein, when a statement such as "at least any one" precedes an element of an arrangement, it modifies all elements rather than each element of the arrangement. For example, the statement "at least any one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted to include a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, and a, b and c.

[0029] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette contained in an internal space thereof.

[0030] The aerosol generating device may comprise a heater. In an embodiment, the heater may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater may comprise a conductive track, and the heater may be heated when an electric current flows through the conductive track.

[0031] The heater may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle heating element, or a rod heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0032] The cigarette may include a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be formed by sheets, shreds and tiny fragments cut from tobacco sheets. In addition, the tobacco rod may be surrounded by a heat conductive material. For example, the heat conductive material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as an aluminum foil.

[0033] The filter plug may include a cellulose acetate filter. The filter plug may include at least one section. For example, the filter plug may include a first section configured to cool the aerosol, and a second section configured to filter a specific component in the aerosol.

[0034] In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol by using a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating material.

[0035] The aerosol generating device may include a cartridge containing an aerosol generating material and a main body supporting the cartridge. The cartridge may be detachably coupled to the main body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be integrally formed or assembled with the main body, and may also be fixed to the main body so as not to be removed from the main body by the user. The cartridge may be mounted on the main body while containing the aerosol generating material therein. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The aerosol generating material may also be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is coupled to the main body.

[0036] The cartridge can contain the aerosol generating material in any of various states (such as liquid, solid, gaseous, gel, etc.). The aerosol generating material can include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid including a tobacco-containing material having a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid including a non-tobacco material.

[0037] The cartridge can be operated by an electrical signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the main body to perform the function of generating an aerosol by converting the phase of the aerosol generating material in the cartridge into a gas phase. Aerosol may refer to a gas in which vaporized particles generated by the aerosol generating material are mixed with air.

[0038] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device can generate an aerosol by heating a liquid composition, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to a user through a cigarette. That is, the aerosol generated by the liquid composition can move along an airflow channel of the aerosol generating device, and the airflow channel can be configured to allow the aerosol to be delivered to a user by passing through a cigarette.

[0039] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol from an aerosol generating material by using an ultrasonic vibration method. At this time, the ultrasonic vibration method may refer to a method of generating aerosol by converting an aerosol generating material into an aerosol using ultrasonic vibration generated by a vibrator.

[0040] The aerosol generating device may include a vibrator, and a short-period vibration is generated by the vibrator to convert the aerosol generating material into an aerosol. The vibration generated by the vibrator may be an ultrasonic vibration, and the frequency band of the ultrasonic vibration may be in a frequency band of about 100 kHz to about 3.5 MHz, but is not limited thereto.

[0041] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a core that absorbs the aerosol generating material. For example, the core may be arranged to surround at least one region of the vibrator, or may be arranged to contact at least one region of the vibrator.

[0042] When a voltage (e.g., an AC voltage) is applied to the vibrator, heat and / or ultrasonic vibration may be generated from the vibrator, and the heat and / or ultrasonic vibration generated from the vibrator may be transferred to the aerosol generating material adsorbed in the core. The aerosol generating material adsorbed in the core may be converted into a gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibration transferred from the vibrator, and thus, an aerosol may be generated.

[0043] For example, the viscosity of the aerosol generating material adsorbed in the core may be reduced by heat generated by the vibrator, and when the aerosol generating material with reduced viscosity is granulated by ultrasonic vibration generated from the vibrator, aerosol may be generated, but is not limited thereto.

[0044] In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating device is a device that generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating article contained in the aerosol-generating device by induction heating.

[0045] The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor and a coil. In an embodiment, the coil may apply a magnetic field to the susceptor. When power is supplied to the coil from the aerosol generating device, a magnetic field may be formed inside the coil. In an embodiment, the susceptor may be a magnetic body that generates heat by an external magnetic field. When the susceptor is located inside the coil and a magnetic field is applied to the susceptor, the susceptor generates heat to heat the aerosol generating article. In addition, optionally, the susceptor may be located inside the aerosol generating article.

[0046] In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating device may further comprise a bracket.

[0047] The aerosol generating device may be configured with a separate cradle to form a system. For example, the cradle may charge the battery of the aerosol generating device. Optionally, the heater may be heated when the cradle and the aerosol generating device are coupled to each other.

[0048] 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 a person of ordinary skill in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. The present disclosure can be implemented in a form that can be implemented in the aerosol generating device of each of the above-mentioned embodiments or can be implemented in various different forms, and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0051] Reference Figure 1 , the aerosol-generating device 100 may include a housing 110 into which an aerosol-generating article 150 may be inserted, a physical button 120 and a light-emitting device 130 .

[0052] In an embodiment, the housing 110 may form an overall appearance of the aerosol-generating device 100 , and include an internal space (or “arrangement space”) in which components of the aerosol-generating device 100 may be arranged. Figure 1 The cross-sectional shape of the housing 110 is shown to be oval, but the shape of the housing 110 is not limited thereto. According to an embodiment (not shown), the shape of the housing 110 may be generally a polygonal prism (eg, a triangular prism or a rectangular prism), or the cross-sectional shape of the housing 110 may be generally semicircular.

[0053] According to an embodiment, a physical button 120 and a light emitting device 130 may be arranged on a portion of the exterior of the housing 110, the physical button 120 being operable by a user and the light emitting device 130 being used to display status information of the aerosol generating device 100. In more detail, the light emitting device 130 may display status information of the aerosol generating device 100 through a single light source, which will be described in detail below.

[0054] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0055] Reference Figure 2 , the aerosol generating device 100 may include a light emitting device 130 and a processor 200. The components of the aerosol generating device 100 are not limited thereto, and according to embodiments, other components may be added thereto or at least one component may be omitted.

[0056] In an embodiment, the light emitting device 130 may include a single light source (e.g., one light emitting diode (LED)) and a light guide plate (LGP). For example, based on power supplied from a battery (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 100, the light emitting device 130 may display status information of the aerosol generating device 100 through the single light source. Because the light emitting device 130 emits light through a single light source (e.g., one LED), and light emitted from the single light source may be substantially uniformly distributed through the LGP (not shown), the amount of power consumed to display the status information of the aerosol generating device 100 may be reduced.

[0057] In an embodiment, the processor 200 may receive a detection input of an event and determine a control mode for supplying power to the light emitting device 130. In this specification, a "detection input of an event" may refer to an input signal indicating a state change in the aerosol generating device 100. The state change may be caused by various events, and a detection input of an event may be generated when an event is detected.

[0058] Examples of events that trigger a "detection input of an event" may include, but are not limited to, an aerosol-generating article (e.g., Figure 1 insertion or removal of an aerosol-generating article 150), an error in the aerosol-generating device, a user's inhalation of the aerosol-generating article 150, initiation of a preheating operation, a communication connection with an external device, a separate user input, etc.

[0059] In an embodiment, when a detection input of a first event is received, the processor 200 may supply power to the light emitting device 130 according to the first control mode. In the present specification, the expression "a detection input of a first event" may refer to a detection input of an event in which a state change in the aerosol generating device 100 may be output as "0" or "1", and the "first control mode" may refer to a control mode in which power is repeatedly supplied and de-energized for a single light source of the light emitting device 130 within a preset time period. The "first control mode" may include all control methods in which power is repeatedly supplied and de-energized within a preset time period. That is, the number of power sources, power supply cycles, and time, etc. in the "first control mode" may be different depending on the type of detection input (e.g., insertion, movement, and detection of an error in the aerosol generating article, etc.).

[0060] For example, when the aerosol-generating device 100 outputs information about the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 150, the aerosol-generating device 100 may output "1" when the aerosol-generating article 150 is inserted, and output "0" when the aerosol-generating article 150 is not inserted. Therefore, the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 150 may trigger a "detection input of a first event".

[0061] As another example, when the aerosol-generating device 100 outputs information about the movement (or removal) of the aerosol-generating article 150, the aerosol-generating device 100 may output "1" when the aerosol-generating article 150 moves (or is removed) and output "0" when the aerosol-generating article 150 does not move. Thus, the movement of the aerosol-generating article 150 may trigger a "detection input of a first event".

[0062] As another example, when the aerosol generating device 100 outputs information about the occurrence of an error in the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating device 100 may output "1" when the temperature of the heater of the aerosol generating device 100 suddenly rises above a threshold value, and output "0" when the temperature is lower than the threshold value. Therefore, the occurrence of an error in the aerosol generating device 100 may trigger a "detection input of a first event".

[0063] In an embodiment, the processor 200 may control the light emitting device 130 by changing the number and duration of the first control mode according to the type of detection input of the first event. For example, when the aerosol generating article 150 is inserted, power on and power off may be repeated once per second. And, when the aerosol generating article 150 is moved, power on and power off may be repeated three times per three seconds. However, this is merely an example for ease of explanation, and a detailed description is provided below.

[0064] In an embodiment, when a detection input of a second event is received, the processor 200 may supply power to the light emitting device 130 according to the second control mode. In the present specification, "a detection input of a second event" may refer to a detection input of an event in which a state change in the aerosol generating device 100 may be output as a series of values ​​(i.e., a binary number cannot represent a state change according to the second event), and "a second control mode" may refer to a control mode in which power supply to a single light source of the light emitting device 130 is adjusted within a preset range.

[0065] For example, when the aerosol-generating device 100 outputs information about the remaining number of puffs of the aerosol-generating article 150 inserted therein, each time a puff of a user is detected, the remaining number of puffs may be obtained by subtracting 1 from the initial number of available puffs (e.g., 14). Thus, the remaining number of puffs of the aerosol-generating article 150 may correspond to the detection input of the second event.

[0066] Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling power supply to a light emitting device of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0067] Reference Figure 3 In operation 301, an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 1 aerosol generating device 100) of the processor (e.g., Figure 2The processor 200) may receive a detection input of an event.

[0068] In embodiments, the aerosol-generating device 100 may further comprise components configured to detect various events and generate detection inputs of the events.

[0069] For example, the aerosol-generating device 100 may further include a sensor for sensing an aerosol-generating article (e.g., Figure 1 As another example, the aerosol-generating device 100 may further include a sensor that can detect an error of the aerosol-generating device 100 (e.g., a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater). As another example, the aerosol-generating device 100 may further include a puff sensor that can detect a user's puff on the aerosol-generating article 150. However, the components that may be included in the aerosol-generating device 100 are not limited thereto, and various components may be added according to the design changes of the manufacturer.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the processor 200 may determine to send a signal to a light emitting device (eg, Figure 1 A control mode for powering a single light source of the light emitting device 130).

[0071] In an embodiment, when a detection input of a first event is received, the processor 200 may determine to supply power to the light emitting device 130 according to the first control mode. In this case, the "detection input of the first event" may refer to a detection input of an event in which a state change in the aerosol generating device 100 may be output as "0" or "1", and the "first control mode" may refer to a control mode in which power is repeatedly supplied and de-energized for a single light source of the light emitting device 130 within a preset time period. That is, the "first control mode" may refer to a control mode in which a single light source of the light emitting device 130 flashes, and may be referred to as a flash control mode (or a flashing control mode).

[0072] In the present embodiment, when the detection input of the first event is received, the control mode is determined to be the first control mode in which the single light source of the light emitting device 130 flashes, and therefore, the state change in the aerosol generating device 100 can be visually clearly recognized. That is, in the case of the detection input of the first event that only indicates whether the state change has occurred in the aerosol generating device 100, the dimming control for controlling the brightness of the light emitting device 130 in sections is not required, and the information associated with the state change in the aerosol generating device 100 can be output only by flashing the light emitting device 130.

[0073] On the other hand, when the detection input of the second event is received, the processor 200 may determine to supply power to the light emitting device 130 according to the second control mode. In this case, the "detection input of the second event" may refer to the detection input of an event in which a state change in the aerosol generating device 100 may be output as a series of values, and the "second control mode" may refer to a control mode in which the power supply to a single light source of the light emitting device 130 is adjusted within a preset range. That is, the "second control mode" may refer to a control mode in which the brightness of a single light source of the light emitting device 130 is adjusted in stages. The second control mode may be referred to as a dimming control mode.

[0074] In the present embodiment, when the detection input of the second event is received, the control mode is determined to be the second control mode in which the brightness of the single light source of the lighting device 130 is adjusted in stages, and thus, the degree of the state change in the aerosol generating device 100 can be visually clearly recognized. That is, in the case of the detection input of the second event, information associated with the degree of the state change in the aerosol generating device 100 can be output based on the dimming control for controlling the brightness of the single light source of the lighting device 130 in stages.

[0075] According to an embodiment, in operation 305, the processor 200 may supply power to a single light source of the lighting device 130 according to the first control mode or the second control mode. Figures 4 to 9 A detailed description is provided on supplying power according to the first control mode or the second control mode by the processor 200 .

[0076] Figure 4 An example is shown in which the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment controls power supply according to the first control mode. Figure 5A Shown according to Figure 4 An example of power supply in the first control mode. Figure 5B Shown according to Figure 4 Another example of the first control mode power supply. Figure 5C Shown according to Figure 4 Another example of the first control mode power supply.

[0077] Reference Figure 4 , when Figure 3 In operation 303, the light emitting device (eg, Figure 2 When the control mode of a single light source of the light emitting device 130) is determined as the "first control mode", the aerosol generating device (for example, Figure 1 aerosol generating device 100) of the processor (e.g., Figure 2 The processor 200 of the embodiment can supply power to the light emitting device 130 based on the first curve 400. Figure 4As shown in , the first curve 400 may indicate a power supply curve in which power is repeatedly cut off after power supply is maintained for a certain period of time.

[0078] Reference Figures 5A to 5C , the aerosol generating device 500 may include an insertion detection sensor 510 for detecting the insertion of the aerosol generating article 560, a heater 520, a light emitting device 530, a processor 540, and a battery 550. In this case, because the aerosol generating device 500 may correspond to Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 100 is described above, so descriptions that are the same as or similar to the description provided above may be omitted.

[0079] Reference Figure 5A , the processor 540 may receive an input when the insertion of the aerosol generating article 560 is detected by the insertion detection sensor 510. In this case, the insertion detection sensor 510 may include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductance sensor, and an infrared sensor, and may sense a signal change according to the insertion of the aerosol generating article 560.

[0080] In an embodiment, upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event of insertion of the aerosol-generating article 560, the processor 540 may supply power to the light-emitting device 530 through the battery 550. In this case, upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event of insertion of the aerosol-generating article 560, the processor 540 may determine the control mode of supplying power to the light-emitting device 530 to be the first control mode.

[0081] In this way, the processor 540 can supply power to the light emitting device 530 to correspond to the curve 570. For example, the processor 540 can supply power to the light emitting device 530 to correspond to the curve 570. 1 (eg, one second) to supply a first power P to a single light source of the light emitting device 530 stick , and then stop supplying power. In this case, the first power P stick It can be the maximum power P max About 80% of, but not limited to.

[0082] Reference Figure 5B , the processor 540 may receive a detection input from the insertion detection sensor 510 corresponding to an event of movement (or removal) of the aerosol-generating article 560 .

[0083] In an embodiment, upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event of movement of the aerosol-generating article 560, the processor 540 may supply power to the light-emitting device 530 through the battery 550. In this case, upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event of movement of the aerosol-generating article 560, the processor 540 may determine the control mode of supplying power to the light-emitting device 530 to be the first control mode.

[0084] In an embodiment, the processor 540 may supply power to the light emitting device 530 to correspond to the curve 580 after determining the control mode of supplying power to the light emitting device 530 as the first control mode. For example, the processor 540 may supply power to the light emitting device 530 during a preset time period t 2 The first power P is provided to a single light source of the light emitting device 530 in a manner of three interruptions within (for example, three seconds). stick In this case, the first power P stick It can be the maximum power P max About 80% of, but not limited to.

[0085] Reference Figure 5C , the processor 540 may measure the temperature of the heater 520 through a temperature sensor (not shown) and receive a detection input of an event corresponding to an error (ie, overheating). For example, the aerosol generating device 500 may include a separate temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater 520, or the heater 520 may be used as a temperature sensor.

[0086] In an embodiment, upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event such as an error in which the heater 520 is overheated, the processor 540 may supply power to the light emitting device 530 through the battery 550. In this case, upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event in which an error in the aerosol generating device 500 is detected, the processor 540 may determine the control mode for supplying power to the light emitting device 530 to be the first control mode.

[0087] In an embodiment, the processor 540 may supply power to the light emitting device 530 to correspond to the curve 590 after determining the control mode of supplying power to the light emitting device 530 as the first control mode. For example, the processor 540 may supply power to the light emitting device 530 during a preset time period t 1 The maximum power P is supplied to a single light source of the lighting device 530 in three interruptions (for example, within one second). max .

[0088] This embodiment only shows overheating of the heater 520 as an example of an error (i.e., abnormal operation) of the aerosol generating device 500, but one or more embodiments are not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the processor 540 may receive various detection inputs of events associated with errors of the aerosol generating device 500 (e.g., insertion of a used aerosol generating article, etc.), and may determine the control mode of supplying power to the light emitting device 530 as the first control mode based on the received detection inputs.

[0089] Figure 6 An example is shown in which the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment controls power supply according to the second control mode. Figure 7 Shown according to Figure 6An example of power supply in the second control mode.

[0090] Reference Figure 6 , when Figure 3 In operation 303, the light emitting device (eg, Figure 2 When the control mode of a single light source of the light emitting device 130) is determined as the "second control mode", the aerosol generating device (for example, Figure 1 aerosol generating device 100) of the processor (e.g., Figure 2 The processor 200 of the embodiment may supply power to the light emitting device 130 based on the first curve 600. That is, the second curve 600 may indicate a power supply curve in which the supplied power is reduced in a step manner within a preset range. In this case, the expression "preset range" may include a plurality of power levels corresponding to a plurality of dimming levels.

[0091] Reference Figure 7 , the aerosol generating device 700 may include a puff sensor 710 for sensing the user's puff, a heater 720, a light emitting device 730, a processor 740, and a battery 750. In this case, since the aerosol generating device 700 may correspond to Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 100 is described above, so descriptions that are the same as or similar to the description provided above may be omitted.

[0092] In an embodiment, the processor 740 may receive a detection input of an event corresponding to a user's puff from the puff sensor 710. In this case, the puff sensor 710 may sense the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 710 may sense the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0093] In an embodiment, upon receiving a detection input of an event corresponding to a user's puff, the processor 740 may supply power to the light emitting device 730 through the battery 750. In this case, the processor 740 may determine the control mode of supplying power to the light emitting device 730 as the second control mode.

[0094] In an embodiment, the processor 740 may supply power to the light emitting device 730 to correspond to the curve 770 after determining the control mode of supplying power to the light emitting device 730 as the second control mode. For example, when the number of available puffs of the aerosol generating article 760 inserted into the aerosol generating device 700 is n times, the processor 740 may obtain a plurality of power values ​​(P ) by dividing the preset power range into (n+1) power ranges. 1 , P 2 , P 3 ,…,P n+1). That is, a single light source of the lighting device 730 may include (n+1) dimming levels.

[0095] In addition, the processor 740 may use the maximum value P among the power values. 1 The light emitting device 730 is powered by the battery 750. Therefore, the single light source of the light emitting device 730 can emit light at a brightness having the highest level (e.g., about 80%) among the dimming levels, and the user can recognize through the light emitting device 730 that the current remaining number of puffs of the aerosol generating article 760 is at the maximum value.

[0096] Then, upon receiving a detection input of an event corresponding to the user's first puff, the processor 740 may generate a signal at a rate less than P. 1 P 2 The lighting device 730 is powered by the battery 750. Upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event of the user's second puff, the processor 740 may provide a signal less than P. 2 P 3 The light emitting device 730 is powered by a battery 750 .

[0097] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling power supply to a light emitting device of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. Figure 8 Shows Figure 3 Subsequent operations after operation 301 are performed, and descriptions that are the same or similar to those provided above may be omitted.

[0098] Reference Figure 8 , aerosol generating devices (e.g. Figure 1 aerosol generating device 100) of the processor (e.g., Figure 2 The processor 200 may determine to direct a light emitting device (eg, Figure 1 A control mode for powering a single light source of the light emitting device 130).

[0099] In an embodiment, when a detection input of a third event is received, the processor 200 may determine to supply power to the light emitting device 130 according to the third control mode. In this case, the "detection input of the third event" may refer to a detection input of an event that may be output as a temporary change and / or temperature change in the aerosol generating device 100 or in which specific information may be output. The "third control mode" may refer to a control mode in which the "first control mode" and the "second control mode" are combined.

[0100] That is, the “third control mode” may refer to a control mode in which a single light source of the lighting device 130 is controlled to flicker for a preset period of time according to the “first control mode”, and then the brightness of the single light source of the lighting device 130 is controlled according to the dimming level according to the “second control mode”. However, one or more embodiments are not limited thereto, and the “third control mode” may also refer to a control mode in which a single light source of the lighting device 130 is controlled according to the “first control mode” after the “second control mode”.

[0101] According to an embodiment, in operation 803, the processor 200 may supply power to a single light source of the lighting device 130 according to the third control mode. Figures 9 to 11 A detailed description is provided on power supply by the processor 200 according to the third control mode.

[0102] Fig. 9 An example is shown in which the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment controls power supply according to the third control mode.

[0103] Reference Fig. 9 Upon receipt of a sample corresponding to an aerosol-generating article (e.g., Figure 1 When a detection input of an event of initiation of a preheating operation of the aerosol generating article 150 is received, the processor (e.g., Figure 2 The processor 200 may send a signal to the light emitting device 130 (eg, Figure 2 In this case, upon receiving a detection input of an event corresponding to the start of a preheating operation of the aerosol-generating article 150, the processor 200 may determine the control mode of supplying power to the light-emitting device 130 as the third control mode.

[0104] In an embodiment, the processor 200 may supply power to the light emitting device 130 to correspond to the curve 900 after determining the control mode of supplying power to the light emitting device 130 as the third control mode.

[0105] In an embodiment, the processor 200 may 2 The first power P is supplied to a single light source of the lighting device 130 in a manner of ten interruptions within (for example, three seconds). stick , thereby controlling the light emitting device 130 in the first control mode. In this case, the first power P stick It can be the maximum power P max About 80% of, but not limited to.

[0106] Then, after a preset time period t 2 Thereafter, the processor 200 may adjust the power supplied to the light emitting device 130 in a stepwise manner within a preset power range according to the temperature increase of the aerosol generating device 100 or the passage of time as the smoking progresses.

[0107] Fig.10 An example is shown in which an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment displays the type of an inserted aerosol-generating article according to different control modes.

[0108] Reference Fig.10 , the aerosol generating device 1000 may include a cigarette identification sensor 1010 for identifying the type of the inserted aerosol generating article 1060, a heater 1020, a light emitting device 1030, a processor 1040, and a battery 1050. In this case, because the aerosol generating device 1000 may correspond to Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 100 is described above, so descriptions that are the same as or similar to the description provided above may be omitted.

[0109] In an embodiment, the processor 1040 may receive a detection input corresponding to an event of type recognition of the aerosol-generating article 1060 from the cigarette recognition sensor 1010. In this case, the cigarette recognition sensor 1010 may recognize the type of the aerosol-generating article 1060 based on an identification element included in the aerosol-generating article 1060, an electrical characteristic value of the aerosol-generating article 1060, etc. For example, when the aerosol-generating article 1060 is inserted, the cigarette recognition sensor 1010 may recognize whether the aerosol-generating article 1060 is type a, type b, or type c.

[0110] In an embodiment, upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event of type recognition of the aerosol-generating article 1060, the processor 1040 may supply power to the light-emitting device 1030 through the battery 1050. In this case, upon receiving a detection input corresponding to an event of type recognition of the aerosol-generating article 1060, the processor 1040 may determine a control mode for supplying power to the light-emitting device 1030 to be a first control mode, a second control mode, or a third control mode.

[0111] For example, when the aerosol-generating article 1060 is type a, the processor 1040 may repeatedly perform power supply and power off for the light-emitting device 1030 within a preset time period based on the first control mode. As another example, when the aerosol-generating article 1060 is type b, the processor 1040 may adjust the power supplied to the light-emitting device 1030 within a preset range based on the second control mode. As another example, when the aerosol-generating article 1060 is type c, the processor 1040 may repeatedly power on the light-emitting device 1030 based on the third control mode and then power off for a preset time period. However, this is only an example, and the control mode according to the type of aerosol-generating article may be changed according to the design of the manufacturer.

[0112] Furthermore, in an embodiment, the processor 1040 may reset the available number of puffs according to the type of aerosol generating article 1060 identified by the cigarette identification sensor 1010, reset the number of dimming levels based on the reset available number of puffs, and accordingly control the power supply to the light emitting device 1030. For example, when the available number of puffs of the aerosol generating article of type a is 14 and the available number of puffs of the aerosol generating article of type b is 10, the processor 1040 may output the remaining number of puffs with 15 dimming levels for type a, and output information about the remaining number of puffs with 11 dimming levels for type b.

[0113] Fig.11 An example is shown in which the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment controls power supply according to connection with an external device.

[0114] Reference Fig.11 , the aerosol-generating device 100 may include a housing 110 into which an aerosol-generating article 140 may be inserted, a physical button 120 , a light-emitting device 130 , and an interface (not shown) that may be connected to the outside.

[0115] In an embodiment, a processor of the aerosol generating device 100 (e.g., Figure 2 The processor 200 of the aerosol-generating device 100 may receive detection input of events associated with the interface, such as establishing a communication connection between the aerosol-generating device 100 and the external device 1100, starting or stopping charging, receiving a message, and receiving notification information, etc. For example, when the aerosol-generating device 100 and the external device 1100 are connected to each other via Bluetooth, the aerosol-generating device 100 may receive the detection input through the interface when the communication connection is established.

[0116] In an embodiment, the processor 200 may control the supply of power to the light emitting device 130 based on the detection input of the event received through the interface. For example, when a Bluetooth connection is established between the aerosol generating device 100 and the external device 1100, the processor 200 may control the supply of power to the light emitting device 130 according to one of the "first control mode", "second control mode" and "third control mode".

[0117] Fig.12 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 1200 according to another embodiment.

[0118] The aerosol generating device 1200 may include a controller 1210, a sensing unit 1220, an output unit 1230, a battery 1240, a heater 1250, a user input unit 1260, a memory 1270, and a communication unit 1280. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1200 is not limited to Fig.12That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1200, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the aerosol generating device 1200 may be omitted. Fig.12 Some of the components shown in or new components may be added.

[0119] The sensing unit 1220 may sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1200 and the state around the aerosol generating device 1200, and transmit the sensed information to the controller 1210. Based on the sensed information, the controller 1210 may control the aerosol generating device 1200 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater 1250, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, etc.) is inserted, displaying a notification, etc.

[0120] The sensing unit 1220 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 1222, an insertion detection sensor, and a suction sensor 1226, but is not limited thereto.

[0121] The temperature sensor 1222 can sense the temperature at which the heater 1250 (or the aerosol-generating material) is heated. The aerosol-generating device 1200 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 1250, or the heater 1250 may be used as a temperature sensor. Optionally, the temperature sensor 1222 may also be arranged around the battery 1240 to monitor the temperature of the battery 1240.

[0122] The insertion detection sensor 1224 may sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 1224 may include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductance sensor, and an infrared sensor, and may sense a signal change according to the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article.

[0123] The suction sensor 1226 can sense the user's suction based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the suction sensor 1226 can sense the user's suction based on any one of temperature change, flow change, voltage change and pressure change.

[0124] The sensing unit 1220 may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a position sensor (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS)), a proximity sensor, and a red, green, and blue (RGB) sensor (illuminance sensor), in addition to the above-mentioned temperature sensor 1222, the insertion detection sensor 1224, and the suction sensor 1226. Since a person of ordinary skill in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from the name of the sensor, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0125] The output unit 1230 may output information about the state of the aerosol generating device 1200 and provide the information to the user. The output unit 1230 may include at least one of a display unit 1232, a haptic unit 1234, and a sound output unit 1236, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 1232 and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit 1232 may be used as an input device in addition to being used as an output device.

[0126] The display unit 1232 may visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1200. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1200 may represent various information, such as the charging / discharging state of the battery 1240 of the aerosol generating device 1200, the preheating state of the heater 1250, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article, or the state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 1200 is restricted (e.g., sensing of an abnormal object), etc., and the display unit 1232 may output the information to the outside. The display unit 1232 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display panel, etc. In addition, the display unit 1232 may take the form of a light emitting diode (LED) light emitting device.

[0127] The haptic unit 1234 may provide the user with information about the aerosol-generating device 1200 in a tactile manner by converting an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulation or an electrical stimulation. For example, the haptic unit 1234 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0128] The sound output unit 1236 may audibly provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1200. For example, the sound output unit 1236 may convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output it to the outside.

[0129] The battery 1240 may supply electricity for operating the aerosol generating device 1200. The battery 1240 may supply electricity so that the heater 1250 may be heated. In addition, the battery 1240 may supply electricity required for the operation of other components (e.g., the sensing unit 1220, the output unit 1230, the user input unit 1260, the memory 1270, and the communication unit 1280) in the aerosol generating device 1200. The battery 1240 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 1240 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0130] Heater 1250 may receive power from battery 1240 to heat the aerosol generating material. Fig.12, the aerosol generating device 1200 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a direct current (DC) / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 1240 and supplies it to the heater 1250. In addition, when the aerosol generating device 1200 generates aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 1200 may further include a DC / alternating current (AC) that converts the DC power of the battery 1240 into AC power.

[0131] The controller 1210, the sensing unit 1220, the output unit 1230, the user input unit 1260, the memory 1270, and the communication unit 1280 may each receive power from the battery 1240 to perform a function. Fig.12 Although not shown in FIG. 1 , the aerosol generating device 1200 may further include a power conversion circuit that converts the power of the battery 1240 to supply the power to corresponding components, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulation circuit.

[0132] In an embodiment, the heater 1250 may be formed of any suitable resistive material. For example, a suitable resistive material may be a metal or metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nickel-chromium alloy, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, the heater 1250 may be implemented by a metal wire, a metal plate with a conductive track arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0133] In another embodiment, the heater 1250 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 1250 may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0134] The user input unit 1260 may receive information input from the user or may output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 1260 may include a keyboard, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact capacitance method, pressure-resistant film method, infrared sensing method, surface ultrasonic wave conduction method, overall tension measurement method, piezoelectric effect method, etc.), a roller, a roller switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, although Fig.12 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1200 may further include a connection interface, such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to other external devices through the connection interface (such as a USB interface) to send and receive information, or to charge the battery 1240.

[0135] The memory 1270 is a hardware component that stores various types of data processed in the aerosol generating device 1200, and may store data processed by the controller 1210 and data to be processed. The memory 1270 may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro memory, a card type memory (e.g., a secure digital (SD) or extreme digital (XD) memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory 1270 may store the operation time of the aerosol generating device 1200, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature curve, data on the smoking pattern of the user, and the like.

[0136] The communication unit 1280 may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit 1280 may include a short-range wireless communication unit 1282 and a wireless communication unit 1284.

[0137] The short-range wireless communication unit 1282 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a wireless LAN (WLAN) (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0138] The wireless communication unit 1284 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 1284 may also identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 1200 within the communication network by using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0139] The controller 1210 may control the general operation of the aerosol generating device 1200. In an embodiment, the controller 1210 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 in which programs executable by the microprocessor are stored. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the processor may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0140] The controller 1210 may control the temperature of the heater 1250 by controlling the battery 1240 to supply power to the heater 1250. For example, the controller 1210 may control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 1240 and the heater 1250. In another example, the direct heating circuit may also control the power supply to the heater 1250 according to a control command of the controller 1210.

[0141] The controller 1210 may analyze the result sensed by the sensing unit 1220 and control a subsequent process to be performed. For example, the controller 1210 may control the supply of power to the heater 1250 to start or end the operation of the heater 1250 based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 1220. As another example, the controller 1210 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 1250 and the time of supply of power based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 1220 so that the heater 1250 can be heated to a specific temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0142] The controller 1210 may control the output unit 1230 based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 1220. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 1226 reaches a preset number, the controller 1210 may inform the user through at least one of the display unit 1232, the tactile unit 1234, and the sound output unit 1236 that the aerosol generating device 1200 will soon terminate.

[0143] An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a computer-readable recording medium including instructions executable by a computer, such as a program module executable by a computer. A computer-readable recording medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer, and includes volatile and non-volatile media and 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 mechanism, and include any information transmission medium.

[0144] The description of the above embodiments is only an example, and it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and equivalents thereof may be made. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure shall be limited by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope of those equivalents 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, comprising: a housing comprising a receiving space configured to receive an aerosol-generating article; a light emitting device disposed in the housing and configured to emit light through a single light source; as well as The processor is configured as: receiving event detection input; determining a control mode for supplying power to the single light source of the lighting device based on the received detection input of the event; as well as The single light source is powered according to a first control mode based on a detection input of the event corresponding to a first event, and is powered according to a second control mode based on a detection input of the event corresponding to a second event different from the first event.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is further configured to repeatedly power on and off the single light source within a preset time period according to the first control mode.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein: The processor is further configured to set a maximum power supplied to the single light source, and to repeatedly power on and off at the set maximum power.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is further configured to adjust the power supplied to the single light source within a preset range according to the second control mode.

5. An aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein: The preset range includes a plurality of power levels corresponding to a plurality of dimming levels, respectively, and The processor is further configured to adjust power supplied to the single light source according to one of the dimming levels based on the second event.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The first event is one of insertion of the aerosol-generating article detected by an insertion detection sensor, movement of the aerosol-generating article, and detection of an error in the aerosol-generating device.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The second event is a puff by a user detected by the puff sensor.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is further configured to receive a detection input of a third event different from the first event and the second event, and to power the single light source of the lighting device according to a third control mode, and The third control mode is a control mode that combines the first control mode and the second control mode.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein: The third event is the start of pre-heating of the aerosol-generating article or the identification of the type of the aerosol-generating article.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, further comprising an interface that can be connected to the outside. in, The third event is one of establishment of a communication connection between the aerosol generating device and an external device, start or stop of charging, message reception, and reception of notification information, and Wherein, the third event is detected through the interface.

11. A method for operating an aerosol generating device, the method comprising: receiving event detection input; determining a control mode for supplying power to a single light source of the lighting device based on receiving a detection input of the event; as well as The single light source is powered according to a first control mode based on a detection input of the event corresponding to a first event, and is powered according to a second control mode based on a detection input of the event corresponding to a second event different from the first event.

12. The operating method according to claim 11, wherein: The supplying of power according to the first control mode includes repeatedly supplying power to and cutting off power to the single light source within a preset time period.

13. The operating method according to claim 11, wherein: Supplying power according to the second control mode includes adjusting the power supplied to the single light source within a preset range.

14. The operating method according to claim 13, wherein: The preset range includes a plurality of power levels corresponding to a plurality of dimming levels, respectively, and The power supplied to the single light source is adjusted according to one of the dimming levels based on the second event.

15. The operating method according to claim 11, further comprising: receiving a detection input of the event corresponding to a third event different from the first event and the second event; as well as supplying power to the single light source of the lighting device according to a third control mode, The third control mode is a control mode that is a combination of the first control mode and the second control mode.

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