Aerosol-generating device including immentation detection circuit using immentation

Abstract

According to an example, an immersion detection circuit for determining whether an aerosol-generating device is immersed includes: a power source configured to supply power to the immersion detection circuit; a resistive element having a first end connected to a power source and a second end connected to a capacitor, the capacitor connected to a ground; and a processor configured to determine an immersion level of the immersion tag based on a test voltage of the second end of the resistive element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following embodiments relate to a device for generating an aerosol and an operation control method, and in particular, to an immersion detection circuit attachable to an aerosol generating device. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the demand for electronic cigarettes has continued to grow, and the continued growth in demand for electronic cigarettes has accelerated the continued development of electronic cigarette related functions. Electronic cigarette related functions may include, for example, various functions according to the type and characteristics of the electronic cigarette.

[0003] Since electronic cigarettes come in various types and shapes, the reasons why electronic cigarettes malfunction are also different. When an electronic cigarette does not work, it is difficult to determine whether the malfunction is due to water immersion or other reasons (such as damaged parts). Since electronic cigarettes are extremely susceptible to water, when an electronic cigarette is immersed in water, it takes too much time to repair it, and most of the parts included in the electronic cigarette may no longer be used. In addition, when a submerged electronic cigarette is used, it may explode due to the wet parts of the electronic cigarette.

[0004] Therefore, a method is needed to more quickly detect whether an electronic cigarette has been immersed and to identify in advance the risks caused by the immersion of the electronic cigarette. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] Embodiments may provide an immersion detection circuit using an immersion tag to determine whether an aerosol generating device is immersed.

[0007] Embodiments may control the charging operation of the aerosol generating device by detecting a voltage change in an immersion detection circuit according to moisture detected by an immersed tag.

[0008] Embodiments may determine whether a malfunction of the aerosol generating device is caused by user error, such as submersion in water.

[0009] Embodiments By providing an infiltration label in a main board of an aerosol generating device and a printed circuit board of a connecting joint of the aerosol generating device, an inflow path of moisture or a degree of infiltration due to moisture can be determined more accurately.

[0010] Embodiments may provide an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol.

[0011] According to an embodiment, an immersion detection circuit included in an aerosol generating device includes: a power supply, which is configured to supply power to the immersion detection circuit; a resistor element, which is connected to the power supply, wherein a first end of the resistor element is connected to the power supply; a capacitor, which is connected to a second end of the resistor element, wherein the first end of the capacitor is connected to the second end of the resistor element, and the second end of the capacitor is connected to a ground; an immersion tag, which is configured to detect moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit, wherein a first end of the immersion tag is connected to the ground, and a second end of the immersion tag is connected to a second end of the resistor element; and a processor, which is configured to determine an immersion level of the immersion tag based on a test voltage at the second end of the resistor element.

[0012] The immersion label may have a resistance value that varies according to the degree of moisture contained in the immersion label.

[0013] The material into which the label is immersed may include a porous structure capable of absorbing moisture.

[0014] The material into which the label is immersed may have the property of changing color due to moisture.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the immersion detection circuit included in the aerosol generating device may also include a power conversion circuit configured to generate a digital test voltage by converting an analog signal indicating the test voltage into a digital signal, and the processor may be configured to determine the immersion level based on the digital test voltage.

[0016] The immersion tag may be arranged adjacent to at least one of a main board of the aerosol generating device or a printed circuit board of a connection interface of the aerosol generating device.

[0017] According to an embodiment, a method for controlling an aerosol generating device includes: obtaining a test voltage of an immersion detection circuit, the test voltage reflecting a resistance value of an immersion tag, the immersion tag being configured to detect moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit of the aerosol generating device; determining an immersion level of the immersion tag based on the test voltage; and controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device based on the immersion level.

[0018] The method may further comprise storing the test voltage or immersion level associated with the measurement time point.

[0019] Controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device may include controlling at least one of a heating operation, a battery charging operation, or a power on / off operation of the aerosol generating device.

[0020] Beneficial effects of the present invention

[0021] An immersion tag and an immersion detection circuit may be provided to determine whether the aerosol generating device has been immersed.

[0022] The charging operation of the aerosol generating device may be controlled by detecting changes in voltage in the immersion detection circuit due to water detected by the immersion tag.

[0023] It may be possible to determine whether a malfunction of the aerosol generating device was due to user error such as submersion in water.

[0024] By arranging the immersion labels in the main board of the aerosol generating device and in the printed circuit board of the connection joint of the aerosol generating device, the inflow path of water or the degree of immersion due to water can be determined more accurately.

[0025] An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol may be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an example.

[0027] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an example.

[0028] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing that a cartridge and a body of an aerosol generating device according to an example are separated.

[0029] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing that a cartridge and a body of an aerosol generating device according to an example are coupled.

[0030] Figure 5 An immersion detection circuit according to an embodiment is shown.

[0031] Figure 6a and Figure 6b An equivalent circuit of an intrusion detection circuit for the presence or absence of moisture in an intrusion tag according to an example is shown.

[0032] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation control method performed by an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The following detailed structural or functional description is provided only as an example, and various changes and modifications may be made to these examples. Here, the implementation should not be interpreted as a limitation of the present disclosure, but should be understood to include all changes, equivalents and replacements within the concept and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0034] Although the terms "first", "second", etc. are used to describe various components, the components are not limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component. For example, within the scope of the present disclosure, a first component may be referred to as a second component, or similarly, a second component may be referred to as a first component.

[0035] It is worth noting that if one component is described as being “connected,” “coupled” or “engaged” to another component, a third component may be “connected,” “coupled” or “engaged” between the first and second components, but the first component may be directly connected, coupled or engaged to the second component.

[0036] The singular forms "a", "an" and "the" also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that the terms "include / comprise" and / or "comprising / including" used herein specify the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof.

[0037] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0038] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0039] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0040] According to an embodiment, Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 100 may include a controller 110, a sensing unit 120, an output unit 130, a battery 140, an atomizer 150, a user input unit 160, a memory 170, and a communication unit 180. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to Figure 1 A person skilled in the art of the present disclosure should understand that the aerosol generating device 100 may be omitted according to the design of the aerosol generating device 100. Figure 1 Some of the components shown in, or adding new components.

[0041] The sensing unit 120 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 100 and the state around the aerosol generating device 100, and transmit the information obtained by the sensing to the controller 110. Based on the sensing information, the controller 110 can control the aerosol generating device 100 to control the operation of the atomizer 150, restrict smoking, determine whether an aerosol generating product (e.g., an aerosol generating product, a cigarette cartridge, etc.) is inserted, display a notification, and perform other functions.

[0042] The sensing unit 120 may include at least one of the temperature sensor 122, the insertion detection sensor 124, or the suction sensor 126. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0043] The temperature sensor 122 can sense the temperature of the atomizer 150 (or the aerosol generating substance). The aerosol generating device 100 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the atomizer 150, or the atomizer 150 itself may function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 122 may be arranged around the battery 140 to monitor the temperature of the battery 140.

[0044] The insertion detection sensor 124 can sense whether the aerosol generating article is inserted and / or removed. The insertion detection sensor 124 can include, for example, at least one of a membrane sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductance sensor, or an infrared sensor, which can sense signal changes caused by the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article.

[0045] The suction sensor 126 can sense the user's suction based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the suction sensor 126 can sense the user's suction based on one of temperature change, flow change, voltage change and pressure change.

[0046] In addition to the above-mentioned sensors 122 to 126, the sensing unit 120 may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS)), a proximity sensor, or a red, green, blue (RGB) sensor (e.g., an illumination sensor). A person of ordinary skill in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, and therefore, a more detailed description of the sensor will be omitted here.

[0047] The output unit 130 may output information about the state of the aerosol generating device 100 and provide the information to the user. The output unit 130 may include at least one of a display 132, a tactile portion 134, or a sound outputter 136. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. When the display 132 and the touch pad are provided in a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display 132 may be used as an input device in addition to being used as an output device.

[0048] The display 132 can intuitively provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 100. The information about the aerosol generating device 100 may include, for example, the charging / discharging state of the battery 140 of the aerosol generating device 100, the state of the atomizer 150, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating product, the restricted use state of the aerosol generating device 100 (for example, abnormal items are detected), etc., and the display 132 can output such information to the outside. The display 132 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), etc. The display 132 may also be in the form of a light emitting diode (LED) device.

[0049] The tactile portion 134 may provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 100 in a tactile manner by converting electrical signals into mechanical stimulation or electrical stimulation. The tactile portion 134 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0050] The sound outputter 136 may provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 100 in an auditory manner. For example, the sound outputter 136 may convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal externally.

[0051] The battery 140 may supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 140 may supply power for operating the atomizer 150. In addition, the battery 140 may supply power required for the operation of other components (e.g., the sensing unit 120, the output unit 130, the user input unit 160, the memory 170, and the communication unit 180) included in the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 140 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. The battery 140 may be, for example, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0052] The nebulizer 150 may receive power from the battery 140 to nebulize the aerosol generating substance. Figure 1Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a direct current (DC)-direct current (DC / DC) converter) that converts the power of the battery 140 and supplies the power to the atomizer 150. In addition, when the aerosol generating device 100 generates aerosol by an ultrasonic vibration method, the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a direct current-alternating current (AC) (DC / AC) converter that converts the direct current of the battery 140 into alternating current.

[0053] The controller 110, the sensing unit 120, the output unit 130, the user input unit 160, the memory 170, and the communication unit 180 may receive power from the battery 140 to perform functions. Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power of the battery 140 and supplies the power to the various components.

[0054] In an embodiment, the atomizer 150 may include a vibrator that generates ultrasonic vibrations by an applied signal (e.g., electricity). For example, the material of the vibrator may include piezoelectric ceramics. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The vibrator may include a piezoelectric body. The piezoelectric body according to the embodiment may be a conversion element that can convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and can generate ultrasonic vibrations under the control of the controller 110. In an embodiment, when alternating current is applied to the polarized piezoelectric body, the piezoelectric body may repeatedly expand and contract. As the piezoelectric body repeatedly expands and contracts, the vibrator may vibrate at a characteristic frequency. When a signal is applied to the vibrator, a short high-frequency vibration may be generated, and the generated vibration may decompose the aerosol-generating substance into small particles and atomize the aerosol-generating substance into an aerosol.

[0055] The user input unit 160 may receive information input from the user, or may output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 160 may include a keyboard, a dome switch, a touch pad (e.g., a contact capacitance type, a piezoresistive film type, an infrared sensing type, a surface ultrasonic conduction type, an integral tension measurement type, a piezoelectric effect method, etc.), a roller, a roller switch, etc. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In addition, although Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to another external device via the connection interface such as the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 140.

[0056] The memory 170 is hardware for storing various data processed in the aerosol generating device 100, and can store data processed by the controller 110 and data to be processed by the controller 110. The memory 170 may include at least one of a flash memory, a hard disk memory, a multimedia card micro memory, a card memory (e.g., an SD or XD memory), 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, or an optical disk. The memory 170 may store the operation time of the aerosol generating device 100, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature curve, data associated with the smoking pattern of the user, and the like.

[0057] The communication unit 180 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 180 may include a short-range wireless communication unit 182 and a wireless communication unit 184 .

[0058] The short-range wireless communication unit 182 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a wireless local area network (WLAN) (wireless fidelity (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, and an Ant+ communication unit. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0059] The wireless communication unit 184 may include, for example, 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. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The wireless communication unit 184 may use subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 100 in the communication network.

[0060] The controller 110 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. In an embodiment, the controller 110 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. In addition, a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs should understand that the controller 110 may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0061] The controller 110 may control the operation of the atomizer 150 by controlling the power supply from the battery 140 to the atomizer 150. For example, the controller 110 may control the supply of power by controlling the switching of a switch element of the drive circuit 138 between the battery 140 and the atomizer 150.

[0062] The controller 110 may analyze the sensing result obtained by the sensing of the sensing unit 120 and control the process to be performed subsequently. For example, the controller 110 may control the power supplied to the atomizer 150 based on the sensing result obtained by the sensing unit 120 to start or end the operation of the atomizer 150. In another example, the controller 110 may control the amount of power supplied to the atomizer 150 and the time when the power is supplied based on the sensing result obtained by the sensing unit 120, so that the atomizer 150 can vibrate at a predetermined frequency or maintain a desired vibration frequency.

[0063] The controller 110 may control the output unit 130 based on the sensing result obtained by the sensing unit 120. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 126 reaches a preset number, the controller 110 may notify the user through at least one of the display 132, the tactile portion 134, or the sound outputter 136 that the aerosol generating device 100 is about to end.

[0064] In an embodiment, the controller 110 may control the power supply time and / or power supply amount for the atomizer 150 by controlling the driving circuit 138 according to the state of the aerosol generating product sensed by the sensing unit 120. For example, the controller 110 may control the vibration frequency of the vibrator of the atomizer 150 according to the type or remaining amount of the aerosol generating product.

[0065] Embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium including instructions that can be executed by a computer, such as a program module that can be executed by a computer. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer and include volatile media, non-volatile media, removable media, and non-removable media. In addition, computer-readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile media, non-volatile media, removable media, 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 commands, data structures, or other data about modulated data signals such as program modules, or other transmission mechanisms, and include any information transmission media.

[0066] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0067] Reference Figure 2 , aerosol generating device 200 (e.g., Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 100 may include a cartridge 220 containing an aerosol generating substance and a body 210 connected to the cartridge 220 .

[0068] The cartridge 220 of the aerosol generating device 200 may be coupled to the body 210 when an aerosol generating substance is contained in the cartridge 220. For example, the cartridge 220 and the body 210 may be coupled when at least a portion of the cartridge 220 is inserted into the body 210. In another example, the cartridge 220 and the body 210 may be coupled when at least a portion of the body 210 is inserted into the cartridge 220.

[0069] The cigarette cartridge 220 and the body 210 can be connected by at least one of a snap connection, a screw connection, a magnetic connection, or an interference fit, but the connection method between the cigarette cartridge 220 and the body 210 is not limited to the above examples.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the cartridge 220 may include a housing 222 , a mouthpiece 224 , a storage portion 230 , a transmission portion 240 , a vibrator 250 , and an electrical terminal 260 .

[0071] The housing 222 of the aerosol generating device 200 may form the overall appearance of the cartridge 220 together with the mouthpiece 224, and components for operating the cartridge 220 may be arranged inside the housing 222. For example, the housing 222 may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but the shape of the housing 222 is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. According to the embodiment, the housing 222 may be formed in the shape of a polygonal column (e.g., a triangular column or a pentagonal column) or a cylindrical column.

[0072] The mouthpiece 224 of the aerosol generating device 200 may be arranged in an area of ​​the housing 222, and may include an outlet 224e for discharging the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substance to the outside. For example, the mouthpiece 224 may be arranged in another area opposite to an area of ​​the cartridge coupled to the body 210, and when the user contacts the mouthpiece 224 with the aerosol and inhales the aerosol, the user may receive the aerosol from the cartridge 220.

[0073] Due to the inhalation or suction operation of the user, a pressure difference is generated between the outside of the cartridge 220 and the inside of the cartridge 220, and the aerosol generated in the cartridge 220 is discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220 through the outlet 224e due to the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the cartridge 220. That is, when the user puts his mouth in contact with the mouthpiece 224 and inhales the aerosol, the user can receive the aerosol discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220 through the outlet 224e.

[0074] The storage portion 230 of the aerosol generating device 200 may be positioned in the internal space of the housing 222 and may contain an aerosol generating substance. In the present disclosure, the expression “the storage portion contains an aerosol generating substance” means that the storage portion 230 performs a function of containing only an aerosol generating substance, such as performing the purpose of a container, and the storage portion 230 includes an element such as a sponge, cotton, cloth, or a porous ceramic structure in which the aerosol generating substance is impregnated (contained). In addition, the above expression may be used as the same meaning hereinafter.

[0075] The storage portion 230 may contain the aerosol generating substance in one of a liquid state, a solid state, a gas state, and a gel state.

[0076] In an embodiment, the aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. The liquid composition may be, for example, a liquid including a tobacco-containing substance having a volatile tobacco flavoring component, or the liquid composition may be a liquid including a non-tobacco substance.

[0077] The liquid composition may include, for example, one of water, solvent, ethanol, plant extract, spices, flavoring agent or vitamin mixture, or a mixture of these ingredients. Spices may include, for example, menthol, mint, spearmint oil and various fruit flavoring ingredients, etc. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0078] Flavoring agents may include ingredients that can provide a variety of flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, or vitamin E. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. The liquid composition may also include an aerosol former, such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0079] The liquid composition may include, for example, glycerol and propylene glycol in any weight ratio with nicotine salts added thereto. The liquid composition may also include two or more nicotine salts. Nicotine salts may be formed by adding a suitable acid to nicotine, the acid including an organic acid or an inorganic acid. Nicotine may be naturally occurring nicotine or synthetic nicotine and may have any suitable weight concentration relative to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

[0080] The acid used to form the nicotine salt may be appropriately selected by considering the rate of nicotine absorption in the blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generating device 200, the flavor or taste, the solubility, etc. For example, the acid used to form the nicotine salt may include a single acid selected from the following, or may be a mixture of two or more acids selected from the following: benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid or malic acid. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0081] The conveying part 240 of the aerosol generating device 200 may absorb the aerosol generating substance. For example, the aerosol generating substance stored or contained in the storage part 230 may be transferred from the storage part 230 to the vibrator 250 through the conveying part 240, and the vibrator 250 may generate an aerosol by atomizing the aerosol generating substance of the conveying part 240 or the aerosol generating substance received from the conveying part 240. In this case, the conveying part 240 may include at least one of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but the conveying part 240 is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the conveying portion 240 may be arranged adjacent to the storage portion 230 to receive the liquid aerosol generating substance from the storage portion 230. For example, the aerosol generating substance stored in the storage portion 230 may be discharged to the outside of the storage portion 230 through a liquid supply port formed in one area of ​​the storage portion 230 facing the conveying portion 240, and the conveying portion 240 may absorb at least a portion of the aerosol generating substance discharged from the storage portion 230 to absorb the aerosol generating substance discharged from the storage portion 230.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the smoke cartridge 220 may further include an absorber, which is arranged to cover at least a portion of the generated aerosol of the vibrator 250 and transmit the aerosol generating substance absorbed by the transmission part 240 to the vibrator 250. The absorber may be made of a material capable of absorbing the aerosol generating substance. For example, the absorber may include at least one material of SPL 30 (H), SPL 50 (H) V, NP 100 (V8), SPL 60 (FC) and melamine. Since the smoke cartridge 220 also includes an absorber, the aerosol generating substance can be absorbed not only in the transmission part 240, but also in the absorber, thereby increasing the amount of the aerosol generating substance absorbed.

[0084] The vibrator 250 of the aerosol generating device 200 may be positioned inside the housing 222 and may generate aerosol by inverting the phase of the aerosol generating substance stored in the cartridge 220. For example, the vibrator 250 may generate aerosol by heating the aerosol generating substance or vibrating the aerosol generating substance.

[0085] In addition, since the absorber is arranged to cover at least a portion of the vibrator 250, the absorber can be used as a physical barrier to prevent "spitting" of insufficiently atomized particles from being directly discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 200 during the aerosol generation process. "Spitting" here may refer to particles of aerosol generating substances with relatively large sizes caused by insufficient atomization being discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220. Since the cartridge 220 also includes the absorber, the possibility of spitting can be reduced, thereby improving the smoking satisfaction of the user.

[0086] In an embodiment, the absorber may be positioned between one surface of the vibrator 250 generating an aerosol and the transfer portion 240, and transfer the aerosol supplied to the transfer portion 240 to the vibrator 250. For example, one region of the absorber may contact one region of the transfer portion 240 facing the -z direction, and another region of the absorber may contact one region of the vibrator 250 facing the +z direction. That is, the absorber may be positioned on the top surface of the vibrator 250 (e.g., in the +z direction), and supply the aerosol generating substance absorbed by the transfer portion 240 to the vibrator 250.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the vibrator 250 of the aerosol generating device 200 can change the phase of the aerosol generating substance by using an ultrasonic vibration method, and the ultrasonic vibration method uses ultrasonic vibration to atomize the aerosol generating substance. For example, the vibrator 250 can generate short-period vibrations, and the vibrations generated by the vibrator 250 can be ultrasonic vibrations. The frequency of the ultrasonic vibration can be in the range of about 100 kilohertz (kHz) to about 10 megahertz (MHz) (preferably, in the range of about 100kHz to 3.5MHz). However, the embodiment is not limited to this. Since the vibrator generates ultrasonic vibrations of the above-mentioned frequency band, the vibrator can vibrate in the longitudinal direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the cigarette cartridge 220 or the housing 222. However, the embodiment is not limited to the direction of the vibrator vibration, and the direction of the vibrator vibration can be changed to various directions (e.g., one of the x-axis direction, the y-axis direction, and the z-axis direction or a combination of these directions). The aerosol generating substance supplied from the storage portion 230 to the vibrator 250 may be vaporized and / or changed into particles through the short-period vibration generated by the vibrator 250 to be atomized into aerosol.

[0088] For example, the vibrator 250 may include a piezoelectric ceramic, which may be a functional material that can convert electrical and mechanical forces into each other, capable of generating electric power (voltage) from a physical force (pressure) and generating vibration (mechanical force) when electric power is applied. That is, when electric power is applied to the vibrator 250, vibration (physical force) with a short period can be generated, and the generated vibration can break the aerosol-forming material into small particles and atomize the aerosol-forming material into an aerosol.

[0089] The vibrator 250 may be electrically connected to other components of the aerosol generating device 200 through the electrical terminal 260. The electrical terminal 260 may be positioned on one surface of the cartridge 220. For example, the electrical terminal 260 may be positioned on the following coupling surface of the cartridge 220: the cartridge 220 is coupled to the main body 210 of the aerosol generating device 20 at this coupling surface. The electrical terminal 260 may be positioned on one surface of the housing 222 opposite to the mouthpiece 224.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the vibrator 250 may be electrically connected to at least one of the drive circuit 212, the controller 214, or the battery 216 of the main body 210 through the electrical terminal 260 located inside the housing 222 of the cartridge 220.

[0091] For example, the vibrator 250 may be electrically connected to the electrical terminal 260 located inside the cartridge 220 through a first conductive member, and the electrical terminal 260 may be electrically connected to the drive circuit 212 of the main body 210 through a second conductive member. That is, the vibrator 250 may be electrically connected to the components of the main body 210 through the electrical terminal 260.

[0092] The vibrator 250 may generate ultrasonic vibration by receiving electric power from the battery 216 of the main body 210 through the electrical terminal 260. Additionally, the vibrator 250 may be electrically connected to the controller 214 of the main body 210 through the electrical terminal 260, and the controller 214 may control the operation of the vibrator 250 through the drive circuit 212.

[0093] For example, the electrical terminal 260 may include at least one of a spring pin, a wire, a cable, a printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), or a C-shaped clip. However, the electrical terminal 260 is not limited to the above examples.

[0094] In an embodiment, the vibrator 250 may be implemented as a mesh-like or plate-like vibration accommodating portion that not only performs the function of absorbing the aerosol-forming material and maintaining the aerosol-forming material in an optimal state to be converted into an aerosol, but also performs the function of transmitting vibration to the aerosol-forming material to generate an aerosol without using a separate transmission portion 240.

[0095] The aerosol generated by the vibrator 250 may be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220 through the airflow path 223 and supplied to the user.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the airflow path 223 may be positioned inside the cartridge 220 and may be connected to the vibrator 250 and the outlet 224e of the mouthpiece 224. Therefore, the aerosol generated by the vibrator 250 may flow along the airflow path 223 and may be discharged through the outlet 224e to the outside of the cartridge 220 or the aerosol generating device 200. When the user brings the mouth into contact with the mouthpiece 224 and inhales the aerosol discharged from the outlet 224e, the user may receive the aerosol.

[0097] Although not shown in the figure, the airflow path 223 may include at least one inlet through which air outside the cartridge 220 is introduced into the cartridge 220. The inlet may be positioned on at least a portion of the housing 222 of the cartridge 220. For example, the inlet may be positioned on a coupling surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the cartridge 220 where the cartridge 220 and the body 210 are coupled.

[0098] Since at least one gap is formed in a portion where the cartridge 220 is coupled to the body 210 , external air may be introduced through the gap between the cartridge 220 and the body 210 and move into the cartridge 220 through the inlet.

[0099] The air flow path 223 may communicate from the inlet to a space where the aerosol is generated by the vibrator 250 , and may communicate from the corresponding space to the outlet 224 e .

[0100] Therefore, the air introduced through the inlet may be transferred to the vibrator 250 , and the transferred air may move to the outlet 224 e together with the aerosol generated by the vibrator 250 , thereby circulating the air inside the cartridge 220 .

[0101] According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the airflow path 223 may be arranged such that the outer peripheral surface is surrounded by the storage portion 230 in the housing 222. In another example, at least a portion of the airflow path 223 may be arranged between the inner wall of the housing 222 and the outer wall of the storage portion 230. The arrangement structure of the airflow path 223 is not limited to the above example, and the airflow path 223 may be arranged in various structures to circulate the airflow between the inlet, the vibrator 250, and the outlet 224e.

[0102] According to an embodiment, the body 210 may include a driving circuit 212, a controller 214, and a battery 216 therein, and one end portion of the body 210 may be connected to one end portion of the cartridge 220. For example, the body 210 may be coupled to a bottom surface or a coupling surface of the cartridge 220.

[0103] When the vibrator 250 of the cigarette cartridge 220 is electrically connected to the drive circuit 212 through the electrical terminal 260, the drive circuit 212 can supply power to the vibrator 250. For example, the size of the power supplied to the vibrator 250 can be determined by the controller 214. The vibration frequency of the vibrator 250 and the like can be controlled by the size of the power. The drive circuit 212 according to the embodiment can be in the form of a class E power amplifier circuit, a half-bridge circuit, or a full-bridge circuit. However, the embodiment is not limited to the described embodiment.

[0104] The controller 214 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 200. For example, the controller 214 may control the amount of aerosol generated by the vibrator 250 by controlling the power supplied from the battery 216 to the vibrator 250. For example, the controller 214 may control the power supplied to the vibrator 250 so that the vibrator 250 may vibrate at a predetermined frequency.

[0105] The controller 214 may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. In addition, those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains will appreciate that the controller 214 may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0106] The controller 214 analyzes the sensing result obtained by at least one sensor included in the aerosol generating device 200, and controls the subsequent process to be performed. For example, the controller 214 may control the power to be supplied to the vibrator 250 based on the sensing result obtained by the at least one sensor to start or end the operation of the vibrator 250. In addition, the controller 214 may control the amount of power to be supplied to the vibrator 250 and the time when the power is supplied, so that the vibrator 250 can generate an appropriate amount of aerosol based on the sensing result obtained by the at least one sensor.

[0107] The battery 216 may supply power to be used to operate the aerosol generating device 200. For example, when the body 210 is electrically coupled to the cartridge 220, the battery 216 may supply power to the vibrator 250.

[0108] The battery 216 may supply power required for the operation of other hardware components included in the aerosol generating device 200, such as sensors, a user interface, memory, and the controller 214. The battery 216 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery.

[0109] For example, the battery 216 may include a nickel-based battery (eg, a nickel-metal hydride battery or a nickel-cadmium battery) or a lithium-based battery (eg, a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium-phosphate battery, a lithium-titanate battery, a lithium-ion battery, or a lithium-polymer battery).

[0110] In an embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating device 200 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 220 and / or the body 210 may be circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or various polygonal shapes. However, the cross-sectional shape of the cartridge 220 and / or the body 210 is not limited to the above shapes, or is not limited to a shape in which the aerosol generating device 200 extends linearly when extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0111] In an embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating device 200 may be extended to be curved into a streamline shape or curved at a predetermined angle in a specific area to facilitate the user to hold it by hand, and the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating device 200 may change along the longitudinal direction.

[0112] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a cigarette cartridge and a body portion of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment being separated, Figure 4 is a perspective view showing that a cartridge and a body portion of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment are coupled.

[0113] according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The aerosol generating device 300 of the illustrated embodiment may be Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 200 (or Figure 1 A modified example of the aerosol generating device 100 shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cigarette cartridge 220-1 and the body 210-1 of the embodiment shown can be respectively Figure 2 The modified examples of the cigarette cartridge 220 and the main body 210 are shown, and therefore, they are not described in detail below.

[0114] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the cartridge 220-1 may be detachably coupled to the body 210-1. For example, when at least a portion of the cartridge 220-1 is inserted into the body 210-1, the cartridge 220-1 may be coupled to the body 210-1.

[0115] The cartridge 220-1 may include a mouthpiece 10m that can move between an open position and a closed position. For example, the mouthpiece 10m can be opened and closed by rotating between the open position and the closed position.

[0116] The body portion 10b of the cigarette cartridge 220-1 can be coupled to the mouthpiece 10m via a rotating shaft. In an example, the mouthpiece 10m can be positioned in an open position. The open state of the mouthpiece 10m may refer to a state in which the mouthpiece 10m is stretched along the longitudinal direction of the cigarette cartridge 220-1 to make it easier for the user to contact the mouth with the mouthpiece 10m. Here, the longitudinal direction may refer to the direction in which the cigarette cartridge 220-1 extends the longest in multiple directions. In another example, the mouthpiece 10m can be positioned in a closed position. The closed state of the mouthpiece 10m may refer to a state in which the mouthpiece 10m is folded in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the cigarette cartridge 220-1 so that the mouthpiece 10m is accommodated in the body 210-1 of the aerosol generating device 300.

[0117] The cartridge 220-1 may include a body portion 10b, which includes various components required for generating aerosol and discharging the generated aerosol. For example, the body portion 10b may include at least a portion of each of a storage portion, a vibrator, and an airflow path.

[0118] The body 210-1 may include a coupling portion 20a that can be coupled to the cartridge 220-1. For example, the body 210-1 may include a receiving groove 20a-1, in which at least a portion of the cartridge 220-1 may be received. The body portion 10b of the cartridge 220-1 may be inserted into the receiving groove 20a-1. For example, the body portion 10b of the cartridge 220-1 may have a substantially rectangular column shape, and the corners of the rectangular column may be chamfered or rounded. However, the shape of the body portion 10b of the cartridge 220-1 is not limited to the above examples and may be a cylindrical or polygonal column shape.

[0119] As mentioned above Figure 2 The cartridge 220-1 and the body 210-1 may be connected by at least one of a snap fit, a screw connection, a magnetic connection, or an interference fit. For example, the cartridge 220-1 may include a first magnetic body, and the body 210-1 may include a second magnetic body, so that the cartridge 220-1 and the body 210-1 may be connected by magnetic force. However, the strength of the first magnetic material and the second magnetic material may be designed considering the ease of installation and removal of the cartridge 220-1 and the body 210-1 and / or the operational stability of the aerosol generating device 300.

[0120] The body 210-1 may include a button 20b. The button 20b may be positioned on one surface of the body 210-1. For example, the button 20b may be positioned on a surface of the body 210-1 corresponding to one end 20c-1 of the cover 20c. When the user uses the aerosol generating device 300, the button 20b may be used to control the operation of the aerosol generating device 300.

[0121] The body 210-1 may further include a receiving portion 20s, which can receive the mouthpiece 10m of the cartridge 220-1 when the mouthpiece 10m is moved to the closed position. The receiving portion 20s may be positioned on one surface of the body 210-1 and may have a shape or size corresponding to that of the mouthpiece 10m.

[0122] like Figure 4 As shown, the mouthpiece 10m moved to the closed position can minimize the portion of the aerosol generating device 300 protruding to the outside, that is, minimize the portion protruding outward from the outer surface of the body 210-1 at the closed position, thereby improving portability.

[0123] In an embodiment, the body 210-1 may further include a cover 20c coupled to a portion of the body 210-1. The cover 20c may be coupled to at least one surface of the body 210-1. For example, the cover 20c may be coupled to a side of the body 210-1 where the coupling portion 20a is located. In addition, the cover 20c may be coupled to a side of the body 210-1 where the accommodating portion 20s is located.

[0124] The cover 20c may include an opening 20c-o. The cover 20c may include an opening 20c-o having a size corresponding to the size of the mouthpiece 10m. For example, the opening 20c-o may have a predetermined length and width. Here, the width of the opening 20c-o may be less than or equal to the width of the body of the cartridge 220-1, and may be greater than or equal to the width of the mouthpiece 10m. The length of the opening 20c-o may be greater than or equal to the length of the mouthpiece 10m.

[0125] The cover 20c may extend from one end 20c-1 to the other end 20c-2 to be arranged on the seating portion 20c' of the body 210-1. For example, the seating portion 20c' may have a size and shape corresponding to that of the cover 20c. The seating portion 20c' may be a portion extending in two directions from the entrance side of the coupling portion 20a and the accommodating portion 20s and grooved to a predetermined depth so that the cover 20c can be coupled to the cover.

[0126] When the cartridge 220-1 is coupled to the body 210-1, the cover 20c may be coupled to the body 210-1 after the cartridge 220-1 is coupled to the body 210-1. The cover 20c may be coupled to one side of the body 210-1 by at least one of a snap fit, an interference fit, or a magnetic coupling method. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0127] Since the cover 20c has an opening 20c-o through which the mouthpiece 10m can pass, the cigarette cartridge 220-1 can be protected when it is connected to the body 210-1 without hindering the opening and closing movement of the mouthpiece 10m, and the connection between the cigarette cartridge 220-1 and the body 210-1 can be maintained.

[0128] Figure 4 The aerosol generating device 300 is shown, wherein both the cartridge 220-1 and the cover 20c are coupled to the body 210-1, and the mouthpiece 10m is positioned in a closed position. As shown, since the body 210-1 includes a receiving portion 20s and a seating portion 20c', the receiving portion 20s has a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the mouthpiece 10m, the seating portion 20c' has a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the cover 20c, and the cover 20c includes an opening 20c-o, the opening 20c-o has a size and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the mouthpiece 10m, the overall surface finish of the aerosol generating device 300 is firm and smooth.

[0129] When separating the cartridge 220-1 from the body 210-1, the cover 20c may be separated from the body 210-1 first, and then the cartridge 220-1 may be separated from the body 210-1. As described above, the cover 20c and the cartridge 220-1 may be separated from the body 210-1 or coupled to the body 210-1 in sequence.

[0130] Figure 5 An immersion detection circuit according to an embodiment is shown.

[0131] According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 1 aerosol generating device 100, Figure 2 aerosol generating device 200, or Figure 3 and Figure 4 The aerosol generating device 300 may include an immersion detection circuit 500. For example, the aerosol generating device may include a driving circuit (eg, Figure 1 The driving circuit 138 or Figure 2 In addition to the driving circuit 212, the immersion detection circuit 500 may also be included.

[0132] According to an embodiment, the immersion detection circuit 500 may include a power source 501 , a resistance element 502 , a capacitor 503 , an immersion tag 504 , and a processor 505 . More specifically, the immersion detection circuit 500 may include: a power supply 501, which is configured to supply power to the immersion detection circuit 500; a resistor element 502, which is connected to the power supply 501, wherein a first end of the resistor element 502 is connected to the power supply 501; a capacitor 503, which is connected in series with a second end of the resistor element 502, wherein a first end of the capacitor 503 is connected to a second end of the resistor element 502, and a second end of the capacitor 503 is connected to a grounding member 508; an immersion tag 504, which is configured to detect moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit 500, wherein a first end of the immersion tag 504 is connected to a grounding member 507, and a second end of the immersion tag 504 is connected to a second end of the resistor element 502; and a processor 505, which is configured to determine an immersion level of the immersion tag 504 based on a test voltage applied to the second end of the resistor element 502.

[0133] According to an embodiment, the power source 501 may be a power source that supplies power to a vibrator of a cartridge that may be inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0134] According to an embodiment, the resistance element 502 may be an element that interrupts current according to a voltage applied from the power source 501 based on a resistance value of the resistance element 502. The voltage of the resistance element 502 may be 5V or more, but is not limited to the embodiment.

[0135] According to an embodiment, the immersion tag 504 may have a resistance value that varies according to the degree of moisture included in the immersion tag 504. For example, the material of the immersion tag 504 may include a porous structure capable of absorbing moisture and may have a property of changing color due to moisture.

[0136] According to an embodiment, the immersion tag 504 may be arranged adjacent to a main board of the aerosol generating device and / or a printed circuit board of a connection interface of the aerosol generating device. For example, the immersion detection circuit 500 including the immersion tag 504 may be provided at multiple locations of the aerosol generating device.

[0137] The immersion detection circuit 500 may be provided with a test point portion 506 for identifying a test voltage at the resistance element 502. The test point portion 506 may be a measurement terminal that can determine a change in the test voltage due to a voltage drop across the resistance element 502. The value of the test voltage obtained at the test point portion 506 may be transmitted to the processor 505.

[0138] According to an embodiment, the processor 505 may determine the immersion level of the immersion tag 504 based on the test voltage applied at the test point portion 506. The processor 505 may include a power conversion circuit to convert an analog signal into a digital signal. The power conversion circuit (e.g., an analog-to-digital converter (ADC)) may generate a value of a digital test voltage by converting the value of the test voltage as an analog signal into a digital signal. The processor 505 may determine the immersion level of the immersion tag 504 based on the value of the digital test voltage.

[0139] Figure 6a and 6b An equivalent circuit of an intrusion detection circuit according to the presence or absence of moisture in an intrusion tag according to an example is shown.

[0140] See also Figure 6a and Figure 6b , the immersion detection circuit 500 can detect moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit 500 of the aerosol generating device. According to the present disclosure, the state of the immersion detection circuit 500 can be divided into: i) a state in which moisture is introduced into the immersion detection circuit 500; and ii) a state in which moisture is not introduced into the immersion detection circuit 500. The immersion detection circuit 500 can determine the immersion level of the immersion tag 504 in response to each state according to the inflow of moisture.

[0141] The immersion label 504 may be attached to a portion or component of the aerosol generating device, and the immersion label 504 may desirably be attached to a location that is not easily visible from the outside. In an example, the immersion label 504 may be arranged adjacent to at least one of a main board of the aerosol generating device or a printed circuit board of a connection interface of the aerosol generating device.

[0142] According to an embodiment, the material of the immersion tag 504 may include a porous structure capable of absorbing moisture. In an embodiment, the surface of the immersion tag 504 may be formed of a waterproof material to prevent changes in the physical / chemical properties of the immersion tag 504 unless the immersion tag 504 is directly in contact with water. The material of the immersion tag 504 itself may not have conductivity, but may exhibit conductivity by moisture introduced into the aerosol generating device during use of the aerosol generating device and absorbed into the immersion tag 504.

[0143] According to an embodiment, the surface of the immersion tag 504 may change color due to moisture melting the dye contained in the immersion tag 504. The surface of the immersion tag 504 that changes color in response to moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit 500 may remain discolored, and may remain discolored even after the immersion detection circuit 500 is dried.

[0144] According to an embodiment, the immersion detection circuit 500 may determine the immersion level of the immersion tag 504 based on a change in a current value or a voltage value of the test point portion 506 that changes according to a resistance value of the immersion tag 504 .

[0145] Figure 6a The circuit diagram shown shows an equivalent circuit of the immersion detection circuit 500 when moisture is present in the immersion tag 504. When no moisture is introduced into the immersion detection circuit 500, the resistance value of the immersion tag 504 may have an infinite value.

[0146] In this case, the value of the test voltage at the second end of the resistor element 502 (i.e., the node between the resistor element 502 and the test point portion 506) is not affected by the immersion tag 504. Thus, when the immersion detection circuit 500 is not immersed, the test voltage measured at the second end of the resistor element 502 exhibits a normal value according to the voltage applied by the power supply 501. Here, the normal value may be a value indicating a good state in which the operation performed by the aerosol generating device has no fluctuation or error.

[0147] Identification (eg, measurement) of the test voltage may be performed at the test point portion 506 . The obtained test voltage may be applied to the processor 505 .

[0148] The value of the test voltage as an analog signal may be converted into a digital signal by a power conversion circuit to generate a value of a digital test voltage. The processor 505 determines the immersion level of the immersion tag 504 based on the value of the digital test voltage.

[0149] Figure 6b The circuit diagram shown shows an equivalent circuit of the immersion detection circuit 500 when moisture is introduced into the immersion tag 504. When moisture is introduced into the immersion detection circuit 500, a current flows through the immersion tag 504, which shows conductivity. Therefore, the value of the test voltage at the second end of the resistance element 502 is affected by the immersion tag 504. The test voltage reflecting the resistance value of the immersion tag 504 may be a voltage at the test point portion 506, and the processor 505 may detect a change in the test voltage reflecting the resistance value of the immersion tag 504.

[0150] According to an embodiment, the resistance value of the immersion tag 504 may correspond to the amount of moisture absorbed by the immersion tag 504. For example, the maximum amount of moisture that can be absorbed may vary according to the size of the immersion tag 504. The immersion tag 504 may have different resistance values ​​based on the amount of moisture absorbed.

[0151] The value of the test voltage at the test point portion 506 when the immersion detection circuit 500 is not immersed can be set as a reference value to determine immersion based on the test voltage. Whether the aerosol generating device is immersed can be determined by comparing the reference value of the test point portion 506 with the resistance value. The value of the test voltage can be applied to the processor 505.

[0152] For example, the processor 505 may control a semiconducting device (eg, a light emitting diode (LED)) implemented in the immersion detection circuit 500 according to the obtained test voltage. The semiconducting device may emit light of a predetermined color due to immersion.

[0153] The processor 505 can generate the value of the digital test voltage by converting the value of the test voltage as an analog signal into a digital signal by means of a power conversion circuit. The processor 505 can determine the immersion level of the immersion tag 504 based on the value of the digital test voltage. The immersion level of the immersion tag 504 can be divided into multiple stages according to user settings or manufacturer settings. The higher the immersion level of the immersion tag 504, the higher the risk of using the aerosol generating device may be.

[0154] Since the reaction of the immersion tags 504 according to the inflow of water occurs simultaneously at each position where the immersion tags 504 are arranged, the processor 505 can more accurately determine the inflow path of water or the immersion degree of water.

[0155] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation control method performed by an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0156] Operations 701 to 703 to be described below may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 1 aerosol generating device 100, Figure 2 aerosol generating device 200, or Figure 3 and Figure 4 aerosol generating device 300).

[0157] In operation 701, an immersion detection circuit (e.g., Figure 5 The processor of the immersion detection circuit 500) can obtain a test voltage of the immersion detection circuit, which reflects the resistance value of the immersion tag that detects moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit of the aerosol generating device.

[0158] According to an embodiment, a plurality of immersion detection circuits may be arranged at different positions according to the structure of the aerosol generating device. For example, the immersion detection circuit may be arranged adjacent to at least one of a main board for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device or a printed circuit board for storing data of a universal serial bus (USB) or a connection joint for charging a battery.

[0159] When a plurality of immersion detection circuits are arranged, the aerosol generating device may include a processor in combination with the plurality of immersion detection circuits. The processor may obtain a value of a test voltage from each of the plurality of immersion detection circuits. The values ​​of the test voltages obtained from the plurality of immersion detection circuits may be the same as or different from each other. Specifically, the aerosol generating device may be divided into an immersion area and a non-immersion area according to the inflow path of water introduced into the plurality of immersion detection circuits. Depending on the position of the immersion detection circuit in the aerosol generating device, the immersion detection circuit may be included in the immersion area or the non-immersion area. Therefore, depending on whether the immersion detection circuit is located in the immersion area of ​​the aerosol generating device, the values ​​of the test voltages obtained from the plurality of immersion detection circuits may be the same as or different.

[0160] For example, assuming that the immersion detection circuit may be arranged in the main board and the printed circuit board, and the main board is located in the immersion area and the printed circuit board is located in the non-immersion area, in this case, the test voltage obtained from the immersion detection circuit arranged in the immersion area may have an abnormal value reflecting the resistance value of the immersion tag, and the test voltage obtained from the immersion detection circuit arranged in the non-immersion area may have a normal value. In this way, the processor may obtain different test voltage values.

[0161] In operation 702, a processor of the immersion detection circuit may determine an immersion level of the immersion tag based on a test voltage.

[0162] The immersion level of the immersion tag may be inversely proportional to the value of the test voltage. In other words, the immersion level of the immersion tag may indicate the degree of immersion due to moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit, taking into account the preset thresholds associated with different values ​​of the test voltage. The immersion level of the immersion tag may be divided into multiple stages according to user settings or manufacturer settings. The immersion level of the immersion tag may be an indicator of the safety of use of the aerosol generating device.

[0163] The processor may determine the immersion level of the immersion tag for the value of the test voltage reflecting the resistance value of the immersion tag without the introduction of moisture, from the lowest level to the highest level. Here, the lowest level may represent a high safety state, and the highest level may represent a high risk state.

[0164] Furthermore, when the test voltages are acquired from the plurality of immersion detection circuits, the processor may determine the immersion level of each immersion tag with respect to the test voltages.

[0165] In operation 703, the processor of the immersion detection circuit may control the operation of the aerosol generating device based on the immersion level. In this case, the processor may store the test voltage or immersion level associated with the measurement time point. This information makes it easy to identify the cause of the defect (e.g., whether the failure is due to the fault of the consumer). In addition, this is also useful in managing warranty services and preserving the history of the aerosol generating device.

[0166] When it is determined according to the immersion level that the aerosol electronic device is immersed, the processor may control at least one of a heating operation, a battery charging operation, or a power on / off operation that may be performed by the aerosol generating device.

[0167] For example, the processor may cut off the power used to heat the liquid (e.g., the aerosol generating substance). In another example, the processor may cut off the power supplied from the battery for operating the aerosol generating device. In yet another example, the processor may stop supplying power to the connection joint for charging the battery of the aerosol generating device.

[0168] The method according to the above-mentioned embodiment can be recorded in a non-temporary computer-readable medium, which includes program instructions for implementing various operations of the above-mentioned embodiment. The non-temporary computer-readable medium may also include data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination with program instructions. The program instructions recorded on the medium may be program instructions designed and constructed specifically for the purpose of the embodiment, or may be program instructions known and available to technicians in the field of computer software. Examples of non-temporary computer-readable media include magnetic media, such as hard disks, floppy disks, and tapes; optical media, such as CD-ROM disks, DVDs, and / or Blu-ray discs; magneto-optical media, such as optical discs; and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program instructions, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory (e.g., USB flash drive, memory card, memory stick, etc.), etc. Examples of program instructions include machine codes such as codes generated by a compiler and files containing high-level codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter. The above-mentioned devices can be configured to be used as one or more software modules to perform the operations of the embodiment, and vice versa.

[0169] Software may include a computer program, a piece of code, an instruction, or some combination thereof, that is used, independently or collectively, to instruct or configure a processing device to operate as intended. Software and data may be embodied permanently or temporarily in any type of machine, component, physical or virtual device, computer storage medium or device, or in a propagated signal wave capable of providing instructions or data to or being interpreted by a processing device. Software may also be distributed over networked computer systems so that the software is stored and executed in a distributed manner. Software and data may be stored by one or more non-transitory computer-readable recording media.

[0170] Although the embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications in form and detail may be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. For example, suitable results may be achieved if the techniques are performed in a different order, and / or components in the systems, architectures, devices or circuits are combined in a different manner, and / or replaced or supplemented with other components or their equivalents.

[0171] Accordingly, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents of the claims are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An immersion detection circuit, the immersion detection circuit being included in an aerosol generating device, the immersion detection circuit include: a power supply configured to supply power to the immersion detection circuit; a resistive element connected to the power source, wherein a first end of the resistive element is connected to the power source; a capacitor connected to the second end of the resistive element, wherein a first end of the capacitor is connected to the second end of the resistive element, and a second end of the capacitor is connected to ground; an immersion tag configured to detect moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit, wherein a first end of the immersion tag is connected to ground and a second end of the immersion tag is connected to the second end of the resistive element; and A processor is configured to determine an immersion level of the immersion tag based on a test voltage at the second end of the resistive element.

2. The immersion detection circuit according to claim 1, in, The immersion label has a resistance value that varies according to a degree of moisture contained in the immersion label.

3. The immersion detection circuit according to claim 1, in, The material of the immersion label includes a porous structure capable of absorbing the moisture.

4. The immersion detection circuit according to claim 1, in, The material of the impregnated label has a property of changing color due to the moisture.

5. The immersion detection circuit according to claim 1, wherein the immersion detection circuit further comprises: include: an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to generate a digital test voltage by converting an analog signal indicative of the test voltage into a digital signal, Wherein the processor is configured to determine the immersion level based on the digital test voltage.

6. The immersion detection circuit according to claim 1, in, The immersion tab is arranged adjacent to at least one of a main board of the aerosol generating device or a printed circuit board of a connection interface of the aerosol generating device.

7. A method for controlling an aerosol generating device, the method include: obtaining a test voltage of an immersion detection circuit, the test voltage reflecting a resistance value of an immersion tag, the immersion tag being configured to detect moisture introduced into the immersion detection circuit of the aerosol generating device; determining an immersion level of the immersion tag based on the test voltage; as well as Operation of the aerosol generating device is controlled based on the immersion level.

8. The method according to claim 7, further comprising: include: The test voltage or immersion level is stored in association with the measurement time point.

9. The method according to claim 8, in, Controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device comprises: At least one of a heating operation, a battery charging operation, or a power on / off operation of the aerosol generating device is controlled. 10 . A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing the following instructions: when the instructions are executed by a processor, the instructions cause the processor to perform the method according to claim 7 .

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