Aerosol generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device, a control unit and a method are disclosed. An aerosol-generating device (100) for receiving an aerosol substrate (102) comprises: a body (106) comprising an opening (118) configured to receive an aerosol substrate (102); a controller (122) housed in the body (106) for controlling the aerosol-generating device (100); a movable cover (128) operable to move between a first position to prevent insertion of the aerosol substrate (102) and a second position to allow insertion of the aerosol substrate (102); and a sensor (130) configured to generate a signal indicative of a position of the movable cover (128), where the sensor (130) is electrically connected to the controller (122) such that the controller (122) controls the aerosol-generating device (100) based on the position of the movable cover (128).

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device. Background of the Invention

[0003] Conventional aerosol generating devices include a heater and control electronics configured to control the heater to heat an aerosol substrate. A user can insert the aerosol substrate through the opening and into a cavity in the aerosol generating device so that the heater can heat the aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation.

[0004] Some aerosol-generating devices may include a cover that covers an opening of the aerosol-generating device. Typically, the cover functions to simply cover the opening to prevent unwanted objects from entering the aerosol-generating device. The cover typically does not interact with any other elements of the aerosol-generating device.

[0005] As aerosol-generating devices are typically portable, continued operation of the aerosol-generating device can quickly consume the power source of the aerosol-generating device.

[0006] In these conventional aerosol-generating devices, the heater may be manually controlled by a user, or may be configured to be 'on' whenever the aerosol-generating device is 'on', regardless of the presence or absence of an aerosol substrate or the position of a cover.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least some of the problems cited above. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to a first aspect, an aerosol generating device for receiving an aerosol substrate is provided, the aerosol generating device comprising: a body comprising an opening configured to receive the aerosol substrate; a controller housed in the body for controlling the aerosol generating device; a movable cover operable to move between a first position for preventing insertion of the aerosol substrate and a second position for allowing insertion of the aerosol substrate; and a sensor configured to generate a signal indicating the position of the movable cover, wherein the sensor is electrically connected to the controller so that the controller controls the aerosol generating device based on the position of the movable cover.

[0009] This configuration is highly advantageous because the device can be operated when the cover is in a specific position. Thus, power can be saved by only powering the device when necessary.

[0010] Furthermore, the arrangement prevents accidental operation of the device.

[0011] In one example, the aerosol generating device further includes: at least one heater configured to heat a received aerosol matrix during use; one or more secondary electronic components; and a first voltage regulator comprising an enable pin electrically connected to an I / O pin of a controller, and an output pin electrically connected to the one or more secondary electronic components; wherein the first voltage regulator is configured to be activated when the movable cover moves from a first position to a second position, and wherein the first voltage regulator is configured to control the supply of power to the one or more secondary electronic components when activated.

[0012] In this way, the one or more secondary electronic components are activated only when the cover is moved from the first position to the second position, thereby reducing power consumption. However, the at least one or more heaters may not need to be activated when the cover is moved from the first position to the second position to avoid unnecessary heating.

[0013] In one example, the aerosol generating device further includes a circuit board configured to be mounted on the controller and the first voltage regulator, wherein the one or more secondary electronic components include a first thermistor configured to detect user inhalation, wherein the at least one heater is electrically connected to the circuit board via a first connecting member, and wherein the first thermistor is electrically connected to the circuit board via a second connecting member different from the first connecting member.

[0014] Since the thermistor continuously consumes power in an activated state, the power consumed by the thermistor is large when compared to other electronic components. Therefore, by activating the thermistor only when the movable cover is moved from the first position to the second position, power consumption is reduced. In addition, the large current supplied to the at least one heater may generate noise when it flows through the first connecting member. If such noise interferes with the output signal of the first thermistor, it will become difficult to detect user inhalation by using the output signal of the first thermistor. By separating the first connecting member and the second connecting member, the output signal of the first thermistor is effectively protected from the influence of such noise.

[0015] In one example, the one or more secondary electronic components include a second thermistor configured to detect a temperature of the at least one heater, wherein the second thermistor is electrically connected to the circuit board via a first connection member.

[0016] In this way, the second thermistor is activated only when the cover is moved from the first position to the second position, thereby reducing power consumption. It is preferred to install the second thermistor close to the at least one heater so as to more accurately detect the temperature of the at least one heater. Since the first connecting member is connected to the at least one heater, the number of parts can be effectively reduced by connecting the second thermistor and the circuit board via the second connecting member while maintaining the accuracy of the detected temperature of the at least one heater.

[0017] In one example, the first connection member includes a first GND line connected to the at least one heater, and a second GND line connected to the second thermistor, wherein the first GND line and the second GND line are insulated on the first connection member.

[0018] The generated noise is absorbed into the ground (GND) line and converted into heat absorbed in the ground. In this way, the generated noise caused by the large current supplied to the at least one heater is effectively absorbed into the first GND instead of interfering with the output signal of the second thermistor. By separating the first GND and the second GND, when the noise is absorbed and converted into heat, the temporary fluctuation of the potential of the first GND has little effect on the output signal of the second thermistor.

[0019] In one example, the circuit board includes a first ground and a second ground different from the first ground, wherein the first GND line is electrically connected to the first ground, and wherein the second GND line is electrically connected to the second ground.

[0020] In this manner, the first GND line can be substantially isolated from the second GND line, thereby reducing or eliminating electrical interaction therebetween.The first GND can also be used as a power ground (GND), and the second GND can be used as a signal ground (GND).

[0021] In one example, the aerosol generating device further includes: at least one heater, which is configured to heat a received aerosol matrix during use; one or more secondary electronic components; a NOT gate, which includes an input pin electrically connected to the sensor, and an output pin; and a first voltage regulator, which includes an enable pin electrically connected to the output pin of the NOT gate, and an output pin electrically connected to the one or more secondary electronic components; wherein the first voltage regulator is configured to be activated when the movable cover moves from a first position to a second position, and wherein the first voltage regulator is configured to control the supply of power to the one or more secondary electronic components when activated.

[0022] In this way, a more responsive operation can be achieved by bypassing the controller. Furthermore, a smaller controller can be used, thus saving space within the aerosol generating device as well as cost. Additionally, the controller can use its computing resources for other calculations. As a result, the computing efficiency of the controller can be improved.

[0023] In one example, the controller is not electrically connected to an enable pin of the first voltage regulator.

[0024] In this way, the controller can be bypassed during the sensing of the position of the movable covering.Since a general purpose input / output (I / O) pin for the enable pin of the first voltage regulator is no longer required, a smaller controller can be used.

[0025] In one example, the aerosol generating device further includes: one or more tertiary electronic components; a second voltage regulator, the second voltage regulator including an output pin electrically connected to the one or more tertiary electronic components, and an enable pin, wherein the second voltage regulator is configured to control the supply of power to the one or more tertiary electronic components when activated.

[0026] In this way, the activation timing of the secondary electronic component and the one or more tertiary electronic components can be independently controlled. This can lead to improvements in functionality and energy consumption.

[0027] In one example, the second voltage regulator is configured to be continuously activated regardless of the signal generated by the sensor.

[0028] In this way, power may continue to be supplied to the basic electronic components including the one or more tertiary electronic components regardless of the position of the removable cover.

[0029] In one example, the aerosol generating device further includes a first resistor, wherein a VDD pin of the controller is electrically connected to an output pin of a second voltage regulator, wherein one end of the resistor is electrically connected in parallel to an enable pin of the first voltage regulator and an I / O pin of the controller, and wherein the other end of the resistor is electrically connected to an enable pin of the second voltage regulator.

[0030] In this way, even if a low-level signal is input from other electronic components (e.g., the NOT gate mentioned above) to the enable pin of the first voltage regulator, the potential of the enable pin of the second voltage regulator can be kept at a high level. Therefore, the one or more three-stage electronic components connected to the output pin of the second voltage regulator can be continuously operated.

[0031] In one example, the aerosol generating device further includes: a power supply configured to power the at least one heater; and a charger IC configured to charge the power supply; wherein the enable pin of the first voltage regulator and the enable pin of the second voltage regulator are electrically connected to a SYS pin of the power supply or the charger IC.

[0032] In this way, even if a low-level signal is input into the enable pin of the first voltage regulator from other electronic components (e.g., the NOT gate mentioned above), the potential of the enable pin of the second voltage regulator can be maintained at a high level through the SYS pin of the power supply or charger IC.

[0033] In one example, the aerosol generating device further includes: a thermistor electrically connected to a power supply; and a voltage regulator including an output pin electrically connected to the thermistor, an input pin electrically connected to the power supply, and an enable pin electrically connected to the power supply, wherein the controller is configured to inhibit power from reaching the thermistor via the voltage regulator when the removable cover is in a first position, and wherein the controller is configured to allow power from the power supply to reach the thermistor via the voltage regulator when the removable cover is in a second position.

[0034] In this way, the number of integrated circuits is reduced, thereby simplifying the arrangement of the aerosol generating device. This reduction simplifies the manufacturing process, thereby reducing costs. In addition, it can bring continuity to manufacturing during the worldwide semiconductor shortage.

[0035] In one example, one end of the thermistor is electrically connected to an output pin of a voltage regulator, wherein the other end of the thermistor is electrically connected to an I / O pin of a controller, and wherein the controller is configured to output a voltage signal from the I / O pin when the removable cover is in a first position, the voltage signal having the same voltage value as an output voltage from the voltage regulator.

[0036] In this way, it is easy to suppress the supply of power to the thermistor because the potentials at both ends of the thermistor are kept at the same level.

[0037] In one example, the aerosol-generating device further comprises a switch configured to be operable by a user, wherein the controller is configured to reset upon receiving the user input and the movable cover is moved between the first position to the second position.

[0038] In this way, an unexpected or erroneous restart of the controller is avoided.

[0039] In one example, the aerosol generating device further includes a restart controller, which includes a reset pin configured to output a reset signal, a first input pin electrically connected to the switch, and a second input pin electrically connected to the sensor, wherein the restart controller is configured to be activated when the first input pin and the second input pin receive a signal of each predetermined level within a predetermined duration, and wherein the restart controller after activation is configured to output the reset signal only within a predetermined time, so that the controller is restarted.

[0040] In this way, the controller may be restarted to resolve an associated problem (eg, a freeze).

[0041] In one example, the sensor includes a Hall Effect sensor.

[0042] In this way, the sensor will have reduced power consumption, because the Hall Effect sensor can be used to detect the cover passing a threshold position, rather than relying on constant monitoring of the position of the cover. In addition, the mechanical toughness of the device can be improved, because physical contact between the cover and the sensor is no longer required.

[0043] According to a second aspect, a control unit for an aerosol generating device is provided, the control unit comprising: a controller for controlling the aerosol generating device; a sensor configured to generate data indicating the position of a movable cover on the aerosol generating device, and wherein the sensor is electrically connected to the controller so that the controller outputs a control signal to the aerosol generating device based on the data received from the sensor.

[0044] Such a control unit is highly advantageous because the device can be operated when the cover is in a specific position. Thus, power can be saved by only powering the device when necessary.

[0045] Furthermore, the control unit prevents unintentional operation of the device.

[0046] According to a third aspect, a method for controlling an aerosol generating device is provided, the method comprising: generating data indicating a position of a movable cover on the aerosol generating device at a sensor; receiving the generated data at a controller; and outputting a control signal to the aerosol generating device based on the data received from the sensor.

[0047] This approach is highly advantageous because the device can be operated when the cover is in a specific position. Thus, power can be saved by only powering the device when necessary.

[0048] Furthermore, the control unit prevents unintentional operation of the device.

[0049] Such a configuration is highly advantageous, in particular for the reasons provided above in relation to the first aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1a shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device with a movable cover in a first position;

[0052] Figure 1b shows a perspective view of the aerosol-generating device with the movable cover in a second position;

[0053] Figure 2a shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device with a movable cover in a first position;

[0054] Figure 2b showing a cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generating device with the moveable cover in a second position;

[0055] Figure 3 shows a representative circuit diagram corresponding to a first configuration of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the movable cover is in a first position;

[0056] Figure 4 shows a representative circuit diagram corresponding to a first configuration of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the movable cover is in a second position;

[0057] Figure 5 shows a representative circuit diagram corresponding to a second configuration of the aerosol generating device;

[0058] Figure 6 shows a representative circuit diagram corresponding to a third configuration of an aerosol generating device;

[0059] Figure 7 shows a representative circuit diagram corresponding to a fourth configuration of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the movable cover is in a first position;

[0060] Figure 8 shows a representative circuit diagram corresponding to a fourth configuration of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the movable cover is in a second position;

[0061] Fig. 9 shows a representative circuit diagram corresponding to a fifth configuration of an aerosol-generating device; and

[0062] Fig.10 A block diagram representing a method of controlling an aerosol generating device is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] refer to Figure 1a and Figure 1b , showing a perspective view of an aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 comprises a body 106. The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises an opening 118 and a movable cover 128, the movable cover being configured to be in a first position (eg Figure 1a ) and the second position (as shown in Figure 1b 118). In the first position, the removable cover 128 can cover the opening 118. In the second position, the removable cover 128 can face away from the opening 118 so that the opening 118 is exposed for insertion of the aerosol substrate 102 by the user. In the first position, the removable cover 128 prevents the insertion of the aerosol substrate 102. In the second position, the removable cover 128 allows the insertion of the aerosol substrate 102. In other words, the first position can be interpreted as a closed position, and the second position can be interpreted as an open position.

[0064] refer to Figure 2a , shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 is suitable for receiving an aerosol substrate 102 (e.g. Figure 2b ). The aerosol generating device 100 is also adapted to generate an aerosol from an aerosol substrate 102. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include: a channel 120 through which the aerosol substrate 102 is received; and a chamber 104 in which at least a portion of the aerosol substrate 102 is accommodated.

[0065] The aerosol substrate 102 may form part of or be a consumable. The consumable may include the aerosol substrate 102. The consumable may include a housing containing the aerosol substrate 102.

[0066] The present invention is not limited to the specific aerosol generating device 100 or aerosol substrate 102 described herein, as long as the aerosol generating device 100 or aerosol substrate 102 is in accordance with the appended claims. That is, the description of the aerosol generating device 100 and the aerosol substrate 102 is provided for illustrative purposes only. The skilled person will understand that alternative structures of the aerosol generating device and the consumable will be compatible with the present invention.

[0067] As used herein, the term aerosol matrix is ​​a label for the medium that means to generate aerosol or steam. It can be synonymous with inhalable material and aerosol generation medium. The term aerosol matrix comprises a liquid or solid material that provides a volatile component (typically in the form of steam or aerosol). Aerosol matrix 102 can be non-tobacco-containing material or tobacco-containing material. Aerosol matrix 102 can for example comprise one or more of the following: tobacco itself, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco extract, homogenized tobacco or tobacco substitute. Aerosol matrix 102 can also comprise other non-tobacco products, and depending on product, these non-tobacco products may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosol matrix 102 can comprise one or more wetting agents, such as glycerine or propylene glycol.

[0068] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a body 106. The body 106 may be a housing or other structure for housing the components of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0069] The aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one heater 112 as an example of a vaporizer. The at least one heater 112 may include a heating circuit and / or may be part of a heating assembly. In an example, the at least one heater 112 is used to heat the aerosol substrate 102 during use, such as Figure 2b as shown in .

[0070] In an example, the at least one heater 112 includes a single heater 112. In a further example, the at least one heater 112 includes a plurality of heaters 112. The at least one heater 112 may include a resistive heater and / or an inductive heater.

[0071] The at least one heater 112 may include a chamber or volume. The chamber may be suitable for receiving the aerosol substrate 102 therein. That is, the chamber of the at least one heater 112 may be the chamber 104 of the aerosol generating device 100. The chamber may provide or define an oven. The at least one heater 112 may be disposed inside the chamber (i.e., within the chamber) or outside the chamber. That is, the at least one heater 112 may be disposed inside the oven or outside the oven.

[0072] The body 106 includes an opening 118 through which a user can insert the aerosol substrate 102 into the aerosol generating device 100, such as Figure 2b. When inserted, a portion of the aerosol substrate 102 may protrude from the opening 118 to allow a user to utilize the aerosol substrate 102 to inhale the generated aerosol during use. In other words, preferably, when the aerosol substrate 102 is inserted into or inserted into the chamber 104, the removable cover 128 cannot be moved from the second position to the first position. The opening 118 may be sized to receive the aerosol substrate 102.

[0073] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a controller 122 (or control circuit system). The controller 122 may be a microcontroller unit (MCU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU). The controller 122 may be used to electronically manage the aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 may include a circuit board 124, such as a printed circuit board (PCB). The circuit board 124 may have a controller 122 mounted thereon. The circuit board 124 may have several additional components mounted thereon. For example, the circuit board 124 may have a charger IC 138, a first voltage regulator 150, a second voltage regulator 156, a three-stage electronic component 158, a non-gate 180, and a restart controller 172 mounted thereon. The at least one heater 112 may be electrically connected to the circuit board 124. The electrical connection between the at least one heater 112 and the circuit board 124 is facilitated by a first connecting member 126.

[0074] The controller 122 may include a memory 142 for storing instructions and / or data therein. The controller 122 may be configured to control the at least one heater 112 by using the instructions and / or data stored in the memory. Alternatively or additionally, a memory located external to the controller 122 may be utilized.

[0075] The removable cover 128 is operable to move between a first position to prevent insertion of the aerosol substrate 102 and a second position to allow insertion of the aerosol substrate 102. The removable cover 128 can be positioned in the first position so that it covers the opening 118. The removable cover 128 can be positioned in the second position so that it exposes the opening 118. The removable cover 128 can be operable to move between a first position (e.g., a position that substantially covers the opening 118) and a second position (e.g., a position that substantially covers the opening 118). Figure 1a , Figure 2a and Figure 3 ) and a second position in which the opening 118 is substantially exposed by the removable cover 128 (as shown in Figure 1b , Figure 2b and Figure 4 In the second position, the user can insert the aerosol substrate 102 into the opening 118 so that it is received in the chamber 104.

[0076] The movable cover 128 can be a slidable cover. The movable cover 128 can be movable along a corresponding track in the body 106. The movable cover 128 can be held in place by cooperating magnets. The movable cover 128 can be biased to a closed position. In other examples, the movable cover 128 can pivot about a pivot point (not shown) to move between a first position and a second position.

[0077] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a sensor 130 configured to generate a signal indicative of the position of the removable cover 128. The sensor 130 is electrically connected to the controller 122 such that the controller 122 controls the aerosol-generating device 100 based on the sensed position of the removable cover 128.

[0078] In one example, the sensor 130 includes a Hall effect sensor. In this example, the removable cover 128 may include a magnet and / or a magnetic metal. The sensor 130 may detect the movement and / or position of the removable cover 128. For example, if the removable cover 128 is in the first position, the sensor 130 does not magnetically interact with the removable cover 128 because the removable cover 128 does not cover the sensor 130. Figure 2a In this case, the sensor 130 outputs a first level signal (e.g., a high level signal) to the controller 122. The sensor 130 can detect the movement and / or position of the movable cover 128. On the other hand, if the movable cover 128 is located at the second position, the sensor 130 interacts magnetically with the movable cover 128 because the movable cover 128 covers the sensor 130, as shown in FIG. Figure 2b In this case, the sensor 130 outputs a second level signal (e.g., a low level signal) to the controller 122. The controller 122 will interpret this signal as the movement of the movable cover 128 from the first position to the second position or vice versa. That is, the controller 122 can determine whether the movable cover 128 is in the open position or the closed position based on the signal from the sensor 130.

[0079] The sensor 130 may be any mechanical / electrical / magnetic sensor configured to directly or indirectly sense the position of the removable cover 128 .

[0080] The aerosol generating device 100 may include one or more secondary electronic components 132. The one or more secondary electronic components 132 may be, for example, a thermistor, an input sensor, or a puff sensor. The thermistor may be configured to detect a user's inhalation due to a temperature change during inhalation. Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown in , the one or more secondary electronic components 132 can be electrically connected to the circuit board 124 via a second connecting member 134, which is different from the first connecting member 126 connected between the at least one heater 112 and the circuit board 124. That is, the at least one heater 112 and the one or more secondary electronic components 132 are connected to the circuit board 124 separately and differently.

[0081] When one of the one or more secondary electronic components 132 is a thermistor configured to detect user inhalation, another of the one or more secondary electronic components 132 may be a second thermistor 144 configured to detect the temperature of the at least one heater 112. The controller 122 may control the temperature of the at least one heater 112 based on the output signal of the second thermistor 144 so that a preferred taste and amount of aerosol is produced. That is, the one or more secondary electronic components 132 may include a first thermistor 132 and a second thermistor 144. In this example, the first thermistor 132 may be configured to detect user inhalation, and the second thermistor 144 may be configured to detect the temperature of the at least one heater 112.

[0082] The resistor 194 is connected between the output pin 186 of the first voltage regulator 150 and one end of the first thermistor 132. In other words, the first thermistor 132 and the resistor 194 form a voltage divider circuit to divide the regulated voltage output from the output pin 186 of the first voltage regulator 150. Since the divided voltage depending on the temperature of the first thermistor 132 is input to the I / O pin 198 of the controller 122, the controller 122 can detect the user's inhalation based on the input signal of the I / O pin 198.

[0083] The resistor 196 is connected between the output pin 186 of the first voltage regulator 150 and one end of the second thermistor 144. In other words, the second thermistor 144 and the resistor 196 form a voltage divider circuit to divide the regulated voltage output from the output pin 186 of the first voltage regulator 150. Since the divided voltage depending on the temperature of the second thermistor 144 is input to the I / O pin 200 of the controller 122, the controller 122 can detect the temperature of the at least one heater 112.

[0084] In this example, the first thermistor 132 is electrically connected to the circuit board 124 via the second connection member 134, and the second thermistor 144 is electrically connected to the circuit board 124 via the first connection member 126. The first connection member 126 and the second connection member 134 may be flexible printed circuit boards.

[0085] The first connection member 126 may include a first GND line 146 connected to the at least one heater 112. The first connection member 126 may include a second GND line 148 connected to the second thermistor 144. The first GND line 146 and the second GND line 148 may be insulated on the first connection member 126.

[0086] In one example, the circuit board 124 includes a first grounding member and a second grounding member (not shown). The first grounding member may be, for example, a wide copper foil inside the circuit board 124. The second grounding member may also be, for example, another wide copper foil isolated from the copper foil formed at the first grounding member. In this example, the first GND line 146 of the first connecting member 126 is electrically connected to the first grounding member of the circuit board 124. The second GND line 148 of the first connecting member 126 may be electrically connected to the second grounding member of the circuit board 124. That is, the first GND line 146 and the second GND line 148 are grounded separately.

[0087] By isolating the first GND line 146 and the second GND line 148 and grounding the first GND line 146 and the second GND line 148 separately, the generated noise caused by the large current supplied to the at least one heater 112 is effectively absorbed into the first ground connected to the first GND line 146 instead of interfering with the output signal of the second thermistor 144. As the noise is absorbed and converted into heat, the temporary fluctuation of the potential of the first ground has little effect on the output signal of the second thermistor 144.

[0088] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in , the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a first voltage regulator 150. The first voltage regulator 150 may be a low dropout linear regulator (LDO) or a DC / DC converter. The first voltage regulator 150 may be configured to be activated when the movable cover 128 moves from the first position to the second position. The first voltage regulator 150 may include an enable pin 152. The enable pin 152 may be electrically connected to a general input and output (I / O) pin 154 on the controller 122. The first voltage regulator 150 may include an output pin 186. The output pin 186 may be connected to the one or more secondary components 132. If the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150 adopts positive logic, the first voltage regulator 150 outputs a regulated voltage from the output pin only when a high level signal is input into the enable pin 152. On the other hand, if the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150 adopts negative logic, the first voltage regulator 150 outputs the regulated voltage from the output pin only when a low level signal is input into the enable pin 152 .

[0089] In this example, when the removable cover 128 moves from the first position to the second position, the sensor 130 can detect the movement of the removable cover 128, and then the sensor 130 can send a signal to the controller 122. The controller 122 can then send a signal to cause the first voltage regulator 150 to activate. The first voltage regulator 150 can be configured to control the power supply to the one or more secondary electronic components 132 when receiving the signal from the controller 122. That is, the first voltage regulator 150 can be configured to control the power supply to the one or more secondary electronic components 132 when activated. This is achieved by connecting the first voltage regulator 150 to the one or more secondary electronic components 132 in a manner similar to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 The dashed line in FIG. 1 is a dashed line in FIG. 1 (i.e., when the movable cover 128 is in the first position) and the dashed line in FIG. Figure 4 The second position is indicatively shown as a solid line (ie, when the movable cover 128 is in the second position).

[0090] In another example, the aerosol generating device 100 includes at least one heater 112 configured to heat the received aerosol substrate 102 in use. In this example, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes one or more secondary electrical components 132. In one example, as Figure 5 As shown in , the aerosol generating device 100 includes a NOT gate 180, which includes an input pin 182 and an output pin 184. The NOT gate 180 outputs an inverse signal of the signal input into the input pin 182 from the output pin 184. For example, if a low level signal is input into the input pin 182, the NOT gate 180 outputs a high level signal and vice versa. The input pin 182 of the NOT gate 180 can be electrically connected to the sensor 130. In this example, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a first voltage regulator 150. The first voltage regulator 150 may include an enable pin 152 and an output pin 186. The enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150 may be electrically connected to the output pin 184 of the NOT gate 180. The output pin 186 of the first voltage regulator 150 may be electrically connected to the one or more secondary electronic components 132. In this example, when the movable cover 128 is located at the second position, the sensor 130 outputs a low level signal, and as a premise, the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150 adopts positive logic. The first voltage regulator 150 is configured to be activated when the movable cover 128 moves from the first position to the second position because a high level signal, which is an inverted low level signal from the sensor 130, is input into the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150. The first voltage regulator 150 may be configured to control the power supply to the one or more secondary electronic components 132 when activated.

[0091] In this example, the controller 122 is not electrically connected to the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150. Therefore, since an I / O pin connected to the enable pin 152 is no longer required, a smaller controller can be used as the controller 122.

[0092] The aerosol generating device 100 may include one or more three-stage electronic components 158. The aerosol generating device 100 may include a second voltage regulator 156. The second voltage regulator 156 may be a low dropout linear regulator (LDO) or a DC / DC converter. In this example, the second voltage regulator 156 includes an output pin 160 and an enable pin 162. The output pin 160 may be electrically connected to the one or more three-stage electronic components 158. The second voltage regulator 156 may be configured to control the power supply to the one or more three-stage electronic components 158 when activated.

[0093] The tertiary electronic component 158 ​​may be, for example, an MCU (controller 122), an LED driver, a memory IC, a Hall IC (sensor 130), a switch 140, a restart controller 172, a haptic driver, an accelerometer, a gyro sensor, or a wireless communication module. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Fig. 9 , the controller 122 and the sensor 130 are shown separately from the tertiary electronics 158 , but these may form part of the tertiary electronics 158 .

[0094] In one example, the second voltage regulator 156 is configured to be continuously activated regardless of the signal generated by the sensor 130 .

[0095] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a power source 136. The power source may be a battery (e.g., a lithium ion secondary battery) and / or a capacitor. The power source 136 may supply power to the aerosol generating device 100, the power providing a voltage in the range of 2.5V and 4.2V. In a preferred embodiment, the voltage source is a lithium ion secondary battery delivering a value of 3.7V. Such a voltage source is particularly advantageous for modern aerosol generating devices 100, taking into account rechargeability.

[0096] The power source 136 may be housed in the body 106. The power source 136 may be permanently located in the body 106, or may be replaceable with another power source (e.g., by using a replacement battery or the like). The power source 136 may supply power to the at least one heater 112. The at least one heater 112 may be powered by the power source 136. The power source 136 may also be arranged to provide power to any other electrical components of the aerosol generating device 100 (e.g., the controller 122).

[0097] The aerosol generating device 100 may further include a charger IC 138. In this example, the charger IC 138 is configured to charge the power source 136 by using power supplied from an external power source. Figure 6 As shown in , the charger IC 138 may include a SYS pin 164. In one example, as Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150 and the enable pin 162 of the second voltage regulator 156 are electrically connected in parallel to the SYS pin 164 of the charger IC 138. In this example, the power supply 136 supplies power via the SYS pin 164 of the charger IC 138. In this example, the external power can also supply power via the SYS pin 164 of the charger IC 138 by using the power path function.

[0098] The aerosol-generating device 100 may further include a first resistor 192. The controller 122 may include a VDD pin 190 electrically connected to the output pin 160 of the second voltage regulator 156 or the output pin 186 of the first voltage regulator 150 or the output pin 168 of the voltage regulator 166. One end of the first resistor 192 may be electrically connected in parallel to the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150 and the I / O pin 154 of the controller 122. In this example, the other end of the first resistor 192 is electrically connected in parallel to the enable pin 162 of the second voltage regulator 156 and the SYS pin 164 of the charger IC 164. The first resistor 192 may isolate the input signal of the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150 from the input signal of the enable pin 162 of the second voltage regulator 156. Therefore, even when the controller outputs a low level signal to the enable pin 152 of the first voltage regulator 150, the input signal of the enable pin 162 of the second voltage regulator 156 is kept at a high level. This makes it possible for the tertiary electronic component 158 ​​to operate continuously.

[0099] In another example, Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown in , the aerosol generating device 100 includes a thermistor 132 electrically connected to a power supply 136. In this example, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a voltage regulator 166 and does not include the second voltage regulator 156 mentioned above. Note that the number of voltage regulators present in the aerosol generating device is not limited to one. In this example, the aerosol generating device 100 may also include an additional voltage regulator for another purpose. The voltage regulator 166 may be a low dropout linear regulator or a DC / DC converter. The voltage regulator 166 includes an output pin 168 and an enable pin 170. The output pin 168 may be connected to the thermistor 132 and the thermistor 144. The enable pin 170 may be electrically connected to the power supply 136 and the I / O pin 154 of the controller 122. In this example, the voltage regulator 166 is the only voltage regulator associated with the thermistor 132 and the thermistor 144.

[0100] In this example, the controller 122 is configured to activate the removable cover 128 when the removable cover 128 is in the first position (eg, Figure 7 ) when the power is inhibited from reaching the thermistor 132 via the voltage regulator 166 from the power source 136. That is, when the removable cover 128 is closed, the controller 132 can inhibit power from reaching the thermistor 132 via the voltage regulator 166 from the power source 136, and thus no aerosol substrate 102 is present in the chamber 104.

[0101] In this example, the controller 122 is configured to enable the movable cover 128 to be in the second position (eg, Figure 8 ) allows power from the power source 136 to reach the thermistor 132 via the voltage regulator 166. That is, when the removable cover 128 is open, the controller 122 can allow power from the power source 136 to reach the thermistor 132 via the voltage regulator 166, and thus the aerosol substrate 102 can be present in the chamber 104.

[0102] In this example, one end of the thermistor 132 can be electrically connected to the output pin 168 of the voltage regulator 166. The other end of the thermistor 132 can be electrically connected to the I / O pin 202 of the controller 122. In this example, the controller 132 is configured to output a voltage signal from the I / O pin 154 when the removable cover 128 is in the first position (i.e., when the cover 128 is closed and therefore no aerosol substrate 102 is present in the chamber 104) that has the same voltage value as the output voltage from the voltage regulator 166.

[0103] refer to Fig. 9, the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a switch 140 configured to be operable by a user. The switch 140 may be configured to receive input from a user. In one example, the switch 140 is a pressable button. In other examples, the switch 140 is a sliding switch. In further other examples, the switch 140 is a manipulable portion on a screen. The controller 122 may be configured to restart when a user input is received at the switch 140 and the movable cover 128 moves between the first position and the second position or the movable cover 128 is located at the first position or the second position. That is, the controller 122 may return to its default state when a user input is received at the switch 140 and the movable cover 128 moves between the first position and the second position or the movable cover 128 is located at the first position or the second position.

[0104] like Fig. 9As shown in , the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a restart controller 172. In this example, the restart controller 172 includes a reset pin 174 configured to output a reset signal. The reset pin 174 can be connected to the VDD pin 190 of the controller 122. The restart controller 172 may further include a first input pin 176 and a second input pin 178. The first input pin 176 can be electrically connected to one end of the switch 140. This end of the switch 140 can also be connected to the output pin 160 of the second voltage regulator 156. The other end of the switch 140 can be connected to the ground. During the user's operation of the switch 140, the first input pin 176 of the restart controller 172 is connected to the ground via the switch 140. In other words, the first input pin 176 of the restart controller 172 is grounded through the switch. Therefore, during the operation of the switch 140, a low level signal is input into the first input pin 176 of the restart controller 172. On the other hand, when the switch 140 is not operated, this end of the switch 140 is isolated from the other end of the switch 140. Therefore, the high level signal supplied from the output pin 160 of the second voltage regulator 156 is input into the first input pin 176 of the restart controller 172. In order to isolate the input signal of the three-stage electronic component 158 ​​from the input signal of the first input pin 176 of the restart controller, it is preferred to connect the resistor 188 in parallel with the output pin 160 of the second voltage regulator 156 and the three-stage electronic component 158. The second input pin 178 can be electrically connected to the sensor 130. The restart controller 172 can be configured to be activated when the first input pin 176 and the second input pin 178 each receive a signal of a predetermined level within a predetermined duration. Once activated, the restart controller 172 outputs a reset signal as a low level signal from the reset pin 174. In one example, the predetermined levels of the first input pin 176 and the second input pin 178 can both be low levels. The restart controller 172 can be configured to output a reset signal only within a predetermined time. This means that the VDD pin 190 of the controller 122 only maintains a low level within a predetermined time. When the VDD pin 190 remains at a low level, the controller 122 is powered off. After a predetermined time has passed, the restart controller 172 may be configured to stop outputting the reset signal so that the controller 122 is restarted. This restart of the controller 122 may resolve a problem (e.g., freezing) with the controller 122.

[0105] In another embodiment, a control unit for an aerosol generating device 100 is provided. The control unit includes a controller 122 for controlling the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit includes a sensor 130. The sensor 130 is configured to generate data indicating the position of a removable cover 128 on the aerosol generating device 100. That is, the sensor 130 can be configured to generate data indicating whether the removable cover 128 is in a first position (closed position) or a second position (open position). In this example, the sensor 130 is electrically connected to the controller 122 so that the controller 122 outputs a control signal to the aerosol generating device 100 based on the data received from the sensor 130.

[0106] refer to Fig.10 , a method 1000 of controlling an aerosol generating device 100 is provided. Step 1010 comprises generating data at a sensor 130 indicating a position of a removable cover 128 on the aerosol generating device 100. Step 1020 comprises receiving the generated data at a controller 122. Step 1030 comprises outputting a control signal to the aerosol generating device 100 based on the data received from the sensor 130. The method may include any of the features or functions of the aerosol generating device 100 described above.

[0107] While preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims and described above.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device for receiving an aerosol substrate, the aerosol generating device include: a body comprising an opening configured to receive the aerosol substrate, a controller housed in the body for controlling the aerosol generating device, a removable cover operable to move between a first position to prevent insertion of the aerosol substrate and a second position to allow insertion of the aerosol substrate, and a sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a position of the movable covering, Wherein the sensor is electrically connected to the controller so that the controller controls the aerosol generating device based on the position of the movable cover.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: include: at least one heater configured to heat the received aerosol substrate in use; one or more secondary electronic components; as well as a first voltage regulator including an enable pin electrically connected to an I / O pin of the controller and an output pin electrically connected to the one or more secondary electronic components; wherein the first voltage regulator is configured to be activated when the movable cover moves from the first position to the second position, and Wherein, the first voltage regulator is configured to control the power supply to the one or more secondary electronic components when activated.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, further comprising a circuit board configured to be mounted on the controller and the first voltage regulator, in, The one or more secondary electronic components include a first thermistor configured to detect inhalation by a user, wherein the at least one heater is electrically connected to the circuit board via a first connecting member, and The first thermistor is electrically connected to the circuit board via a second connecting member different from the first connecting member.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, in, The one or more secondary electronic components include a second thermistor configured to detect a temperature of the at least one heater, Wherein, the second thermistor is electrically connected to the circuit board via the first connecting member.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, in, The first connection member includes a first GND line connected to the at least one heater, and a second GND line connected to the second thermistor, The first GND line and the second GND line are insulated on the first connecting member.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, in, The circuit board includes a first grounding member and a second grounding member different from the first grounding member. Wherein, the first GND line is electrically connected to the first grounding member, and Wherein, the second GND line is electrically connected to the second grounding piece.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: include: at least one heater configured to heat the received aerosol substrate in use; one or more secondary electronic components; a NOT gate including an input pin electrically connected to the sensor and an output pin; as well as a first voltage regulator including an enable pin electrically connected to the output pin of the NOT gate and an output pin electrically connected to the one or more secondary electronic components; wherein the first voltage regulator is configured to be activated when the movable cover moves from the first position to the second position, and Wherein, the first voltage regulator is configured to control the power supply to the one or more secondary electronic components when activated.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, in, The controller is not electrically connected to the enable pin of the first voltage regulator.

9. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, further comprising: include: One or more tertiary electronic components, a second voltage regulator including an output pin electrically connected to the one or more three-stage electronic components, and an enable pin, Wherein the second voltage regulator is configured to control the supply of power to the one or more tertiary electronic components when activated.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, in, The second voltage regulator is configured to be continuously activated regardless of the signal generated by the sensor.

11. An aerosol generating device according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising a first resistor, in, The VDD pin of the controller is electrically connected to the output pin of the second voltage regulator, One end of the resistor is electrically connected in parallel to the enable pin of the first voltage regulator and the I / O pin of the controller, and The other end of the resistor is electrically connected to the enable pin of the second voltage regulator.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11, further comprising: include: a power source configured to power the at least one heater; as well as a charger IC configured to charge the power source; The enable pin of the first voltage regulator and the enable pin of the second voltage regulator are electrically connected to the SYS pin of the power source or the charger IC.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: include: a thermistor electrically connected to the power supply, and a voltage regulator including an output pin electrically connected to the thermistor, an input pin electrically connected to the power supply, and an enable pin electrically connected to the power supply, wherein the controller is configured to inhibit power from reaching the thermistor via the voltage regulator from the power supply when the movable cover is in the first position, and Wherein the controller is configured to allow power from the power supply to reach the thermistor via the voltage regulator when the movable cover is in the second position.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, in, One end of the thermistor is electrically connected to the output pin of the voltage regulator, The other end of the thermistor is electrically connected to the I / O pin of the controller, and Wherein the controller is configured to output a voltage signal from the I / O pin when the movable cover is in the first position, the voltage signal having the same voltage value as an output voltage from the voltage regulator.

15. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, further comprising: include: a switch configured to be operable by a user, a restart controller, the restart controller comprising a reset pin configured to output a reset signal, a first input pin electrically connected to the switch, and a second input pin electrically connected to the sensor, The restart controller is configured to be activated when the first input pin and the second input pin receive a signal of each predetermined level within a predetermined duration, and The activated restart controller is configured to output the reset signal only within a predetermined time, so that the controller is restarted.

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