System-in-package and aerosol-generating device including same

Abstract

The present invention provides an aerosol-generating device comprising: a heater assembly configured to heat a cigarette inserted into the aerosol-generating device; a battery provided to supply power to the heater assembly; and a system-in-package (SIP) including: a micro control unit (MCU); a sensor module; and a heating integrated circuit (IC) arranged to control the heating operation of the heater assembly.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of August 11, 2021, the application number of 202180024278.0, and the invention title of "System-in-Package and Aerosol Generating Device Comprising the Same". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a system-in-package (SIP) and an aerosol generating device comprising the same. Background Art

[0003] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for a method of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substance in a cigarette rather than by burning the cigarette.

[0004] When using an aerosol generation method and a device applying the method, portability can be an important factor for users. When reducing the size of the aerosol generating device, portability can be enhanced, and in order to manufacture a miniaturized aerosol generating device while maintaining its original functions, research is being conducted on the internal components of the miniaturized device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Problems to be Solved by the Invention Although the size of a cigarette used with an aerosol generating device is as small as that of a conventional cigarette, the size of the aerosol generating device has not been significantly reduced in terms of portability. In this regard, there is a need for a small aerosol generating device that is convenient for users to carry.

[0006] However, if the size of the aerosol generating device is reduced, its internal components may be configured densely, thereby increasing the risk of overheating or damaging the components of the aerosol generating device.

[0007] On the other hand, foreign substances may be formed in the aerosol generating device or flow into the aerosol generating device. For example, foreign substances can flow into the aerosol generating device through droplets formed from the aerosol or liquid leaked from the cigarette. In this case, the internal components of the aerosol generating device may malfunction or be damaged.

[0008] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides a system-in-package (SIP) and an aerosol generating device comprising the same. The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to the above description, and other technical problems can be derived from the following embodiments.

[0009] Means for Solving the Problems As a technical solution for solving the above technical problems, a system-in-package (SIP) according to an aspect of the present invention may include: a microcontroller unit (MCU); a sensor module; and a heating integrated circuit (IC) configured to control the heating operation of a heater assembly included in the aerosol generating device.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating device includes: a heater assembly configured to heat a cigarette inserted into the aerosol generating device; a battery configured to supply power to the heater assembly; and a system-in-package (SIP) including: a microcontroller unit (MCU); a sensor module; and a heating integrated circuit (IC) configured to control the heating operation of the heater assembly.

[0011] Advantages of the Invention The aerosol generating device may adopt a system-in-package (SIP), saving installation space. Devices performing different functions formed in a sheet form and / or a module form may be packaged on one wafer. Therefore, the size of the housing of the aerosol generating device can be saved, thereby enhancing the portability of the aerosol generating device.

[0012] The aerosol generating device may be configured to protect components inside the SIP from foreign objects from the outside by means of a module surrounding (i.e., covering) the SIP. When the aerosol generating device detects a foreign object from the module, the heating operation of the heating unit is stopped to prevent safety problems such as short circuits. The SIP can prevent components inside the SIP from contacting foreign objects such as droplets, moisture, or dust.

[0013] The module in the SIP can dissipate heat generated by foreign objects, heating operations, etc. of internal components. In addition, overheating of the SIP can be detected based on the temperature of each part in the SIP. When it is determined that the SIP is overheated, the heating operation of the heating unit is stopped to prevent other problems caused by overheating. Description of the Drawings

[0014] Figure 1 Shows components forming an aerosol generating device including a heater assembly in one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 Is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the coupling relationship between a replaceable cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance and an aerosol generating device including the same in one embodiment.

[0016] Figures 3 to 4B Is a view showing an example of a cigarette inserted into the aerosol generating device.

[0017] Figure 5 Is a block diagram of components of the aerosol generating device in some embodiments.

[0018] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Are respectively a top view and a side view of a system-in-package (SIP) in some embodiments.

[0019] Figure 7 Is a flowchart of a working method of the aerosol generating device in some embodiments.

[0020] Figure 8A and Figure 8B is a diagram showing the configuration of an aerosol generating device in some embodiments. Detailed description of specific embodiments

[0021] Regarding the terms used to describe various embodiments, general terms that are currently widely used have been selected in consideration of the functions of the structural elements in various embodiments of the present invention. However, the meaning of the terms can change according to intention, precedent, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in certain cases, less commonly used terms may be selected. In such cases, the meaning of the terms will be described in detail in the corresponding parts of the description of the present invention. Therefore, the terms used in various embodiments of the present invention should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the description provided herein.

[0022] In addition, unless there is a clear contrary description, the term "comprising" and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" will be understood to mean including the described elements without excluding any other elements. Additionally, terms such as "-part", "-device", and "-module" described in the specification refer to units for processing at least one function and / or operation, and these units can be implemented by hardware components, software components, and combinations thereof.

[0023] Expressions such as "at least one of..." as used herein, when located after a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements rather than individual elements in the list. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" should be understood to include only "a", only "b", only "c", "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or all of "a, b, c".

[0024] The term "cigarette" (i.e., when used alone without modifiers such as "general", "traditional", or "combustible") can refer to any item having a shape similar to that of a traditional combustible cigarette. A cigarette can contain an aerosol generating substance that generates an aerosol through the operation (e.g., heating) of an aerosol generating device. Alternatively, a cigarette can not contain an aerosol generating substance and transmit an aerosol generated from another item (e.g., a cartridge) installed in the aerosol generating device.

[0025] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown so that those of ordinary skill in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Figure 1Shows the components of an aerosol generating device including a heater assembly in one embodiment.

[0028] Referring Figure 1 , the aerosol generating device 100 may include: a heater assembly 110, a coil 120, a power supply 130, and a controller 140. However, one or more embodiments are not limited thereto. Other components in addition to Figure 1 the components shown may also be included in the aerosol generating device 100.

[0029] The aerosol generating device 100 can generate an aerosol by heating a cigarette accommodated in the aerosol generating device 100 in an induction heating manner. In the induction heating method, an alternating magnetic field with a periodically changing direction is applied to a magnetic material to heat it.

[0030] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, the magnetic material may experience energy loss due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss, and the lost energy can be released from the magnetic material as heat energy. The greater the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field applied to the magnetic material, the more heat energy can be released from the magnetic material. The heat energy released from the magnetic material can be transferred to the cigarette.

[0031] The magnetic material heated by an external magnetic field can be a heat-sensitive body. The heat-sensitive body can be arranged in the aerosol generating device 100 in the form of a thin sheet, fragments, or strips, rather than in the cigarette. For example, at least a part of the heater assembly 110 inside the aerosol generating device 100 can be made of a heat-sensitive body material.

[0032] At least a part of the heat-sensitive body material can be made of a ferromagnetic material. For example, the heat-sensitive body material can contain metal or carbon. The heat-sensitive body material can contain at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). Additionally, the heat-sensitive body material can contain at least one of ceramics (such as graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel (Ni) alloy, metal film, or zirconia), transition elements (such as nickel or cobalt (Co)), and non-metals (such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P)).

[0033] The aerosol generating device 100 can accommodate a cigarette. In the aerosol generating device 100, a space for accommodating the cigarette can be formed. The heater assembly 110 can be arranged in the space for accommodating the cigarette. The heater assembly 110 can have a cylindrical shape with a space formed for accommodating the cigarette. Thus, when the cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the cigarette can be accommodated in the accommodation space, and the heater assembly 110 can surround the cigarette.

[0034] The heater assembly 110 may surround at least a portion of the side surface of the cigarette accommodated in the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the heater assembly 110 may surround at least a portion of the area of the side surface of the cigarette corresponding to the tobacco medium contained in the cigarette. Thus, heat can be effectively transferred from the heater assembly 110 to the tobacco medium contained in the cigarette.

[0035] The heater assembly 110 may heat the cigarette accommodated in the aerosol generating device 100. As described above, for example, the heater assembly 110 may heat the cigarette in an induction heating manner. In this case, the heater assembly 110 may include a heat-sensitive material heated by an external magnetic field, and the aerosol generating device 100 may apply an alternating magnetic field to the heater assembly 110.

[0036] The coil 120 may be disposed in the aerosol generating device 100. The coil 120 may apply an alternating magnetic field to the heater assembly 110. When power is supplied from the aerosol generating device 100 to the coil 120, a magnetic field may be generated inside the coil 120. When an alternating current is applied to the coil 120, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the coil 120 changes periodically. When the heater assembly 110 is located inside the coil 120, it may be exposed to the alternating magnetic field. As a result, the heater assembly 110 may release heat to heat the cigarette accommodated in the heater assembly 110.

[0037] The coil 120 may be wound around the heater assembly 110. The coil 120 may be wound around the outer casing of the aerosol generating device 100. The heater assembly 110 may be disposed in the internal space wound with the coil 120. Thus, when power is supplied to the coil 120, the alternating magnetic field generated by the coil 120 may be applied to the heater assembly 110.

[0038] The coil 120 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device 100. The coil 120 may have an appropriate length in the longitudinal direction. For example, the length of the coil 120 in the longitudinal direction may be equal to or greater than the length of the heater assembly 110 in that longitudinal direction.

[0039] The coil 120 may be disposed at an appropriate position for applying an alternating magnetic field to the heater assembly 110. For example, the coil 120 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the heater assembly 110. The efficiency of applying the alternating magnetic field of the coil 120 to the heater assembly 110 may increase due to the size and position of the coil 120.

[0040] When the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field generated by the coil 120 changes, the heating degree of the cigarette by the heater assembly 110 can also change. Since the amplitude or frequency of the magnetic field generated by the coil 120 can vary according to the supplied power, the aerosol generating device 100 can control the heating of the cigarette by adjusting the power supplied to the coil 120. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 can control the amplitude and frequency of the alternating current applied to the coil 120.

[0041] As an example, the coil 120 can be implemented by a solenoid. The coil 120 can be a solenoid wound around the housing of the aerosol generating device 100, and the heater assembly 110 and the cigarette can be located in the internal space of the solenoid. The material of the wire forming the solenoid can include copper (Cu). However, the material is not limited thereto. The material can include silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni), or an alloy containing at least one of the above-listed materials.

[0042] The power supply 130 can supply power to the aerosol generating device 100. The power supply 130 can supply power to the coil 120. The power supply 130 can include a battery for supplying a direct current to the aerosol generating device 100, and a converter for converting the direct current supplied by the battery into an alternating current supplied to the coil 120.

[0043] The battery can supply a direct current to the aerosol generating device 100. The battery can be a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, the battery can be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, etc.

[0044] The converter can include a low-pass filter for filtering the direct current supplied by the battery and outputting an alternating current supplied to the coil 120. The converter can also include an amplifier for amplifying the direct current supplied by the battery. For example, the converter can be implemented using a low-pass filter forming a load network of a class D amplifier.

[0045] The controller 140 can control the power supplied to the coil 120. The controller 140 can adjust the power supplied to the coil 120 by controlling the power supply 130. For example, the controller 140 can keep the temperature constant when the heater assembly 110 heats the cigarette according to the temperature of the heater assembly 110.

[0046] The controller 140 can be implemented by an array composed of multiple logic gates, or can be implemented by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable in the microprocessor. Additionally, the controller 140 can include multiple processing elements.

[0047] In the aerosol generating device 100, the temperature of the heater assembly 110 can be measured to constantly maintain the temperature when the heater assembly 110 heats the cigarette, or the temperature can be changed according to a specific heating curve. However, the aerosol generating device 100 may not include a separate component for measuring the temperature of the heater assembly 110, but instead use a sensing line integrally provided with the heater assembly 110 to measure the temperature of the heater assembly 110.

[0048] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the combination relationship between a replaceable cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substance and an aerosol generating device including the same in one embodiment.

[0049] Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 200 of the illustrated embodiment includes a cartridge 220 containing an aerosol-forming substance and a main body 210 that supports the cartridge 220.

[0050] The cartridge 220 can be combined with the main body 210 in a state where the aerosol-forming substance is accommodated therein. When a part of the cartridge 220 is inserted into the accommodation space 219 of the main body 210, the cartridge 220 can be installed on the main body 210.

[0051] For example, the cartridge 220 can contain an aerosol-forming substance in any one of a liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel state. The aerosol-forming substance can contain a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco substance with a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0052] For example, the liquid composition can contain one component of water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a spice, a flavorant, and a vitamin mixture, or a mixture of these components. The spice can contain menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit flavor components, but is not limited thereto. The flavorant can contain components that can provide various flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture can be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the liquid composition can contain aerosol formers such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0053] For example, the liquid composition can contain a glycerol and propylene glycol solution with nicotine salts added in any weight ratio. The liquid composition can contain two or more types of nicotine salts. The nicotine salts can be formed by adding an appropriate acid containing an organic acid or an inorganic acid to nicotine. The nicotine can be naturally occurring nicotine or synthetic nicotine, and can have any appropriate weight concentration relative to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

[0054] The acid used to form the nicotine salt can be appropriately selected by considering factors such as the absorption rate of nicotine in the blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generating device 200, flavor or taste, solubility, etc. For example, the acid used to form the nicotine salt can be a single acid selected from the group consisting of 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, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the said group, but not limited thereto.

[0055] The cartridge 220 operates through an electrical signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the main body 210, and converts the phase of the aerosol generating substance inside the cartridge 220 into a gas phase to generate an aerosol. An aerosol refers to a gas in which vaporized particles generated from the aerosol generating substance are mixed with air.

[0056] For example, the cartridge 220 can convert the phase of the aerosol generating substance by heating the aerosol generating substance by receiving an electrical signal from the main body 210, or by using an ultrasonic vibration method, or by using an induction heating method. As another example, when the cartridge 220 itself includes a power source, the cartridge 220 can generate an aerosol through an electrical control signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the main body 210 to the cartridge 220.

[0057] The cartridge 220 can include a liquid storage part 221 that accommodates the aerosol generating substance inside and an atomizer that has the function of converting the aerosol generating substance in the liquid storage part 21 into an aerosol.

[0058] When the liquid storage part 221 "accommodates the aerosol generating substance" inside, it means that the liquid storage part 221 can function as a container directly storing the aerosol generating substance, or the liquid storage part 221 can include elements such as sponge, cotton, cloth or porous ceramic structure containing the aerosol generating substance inside.

[0059] The atomizer, for example, can include a liquid transfer element (such as a core material) for absorbing the aerosol generating substance and maintaining it in an optimal state for conversion into an aerosol, and a heater for generating an aerosol by heating the liquid transfer element.

[0060] The liquid transfer element can include, for example, at least one of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber and porous fiber.

[0061] The heater may include metallic materials such as copper, nickel, tungsten, etc. to generate heat through resistance to heat the aerosol-forming substance transferred to the liquid delivery element. For example, the heater may be made of a metallic hot wire, a metallic hot plate, a ceramic heating element, etc., and a conductive wire made of a material such as nichrome wire may be used, which is wound around the liquid delivery element or arranged adjacent to the liquid delivery element.

[0062] In addition, the atomizer may be made of a mesh-shaped or plate-shaped heating element, which performs all of the following functions: absorbing the aerosol-forming substance and maintaining it in an optimal state for conversion into an aerosol without using a separate liquid delivery element, and generating an aerosol by heating the aerosol-forming substance.

[0063] At least a part of the liquid storage part 221 of the cartridge 220 may include a transparent material, and the aerosol-forming substance accommodated in the cartridge 220 can be visually recognized from the outside. The liquid storage part 221 includes a convex window 221a protruding from the liquid storage part 221 so that the liquid storage part 221 can be inserted into the groove 211 of the main body 210 when combined with the main body 210. The mouthpiece 222 and the liquid storage part 221 may be made of transparent plastic or transparent glass as a whole, and only the part corresponding to a part of the liquid storage part 221 in the convex window 221a may be made of a transparent material.

[0064] The main body 210 includes connection terminals 210t provided inside the accommodation space 219. When the liquid storage part 221 of the cartridge 220 is inserted into the accommodation space 19 of the main body 210, the main body 210 can supply power to the cartridge 220 through the connection terminals 210t, or supply power related to the operation of the cartridge 220 to the cartridge 220.

[0065] The mouthpiece 222 is combined with one end of the liquid storage part 221 of the cartridge 220. The mouthpiece 222 is a part of the aerosol generating device 200 that is inserted into the user's mouth. The mouthpiece 222 includes a discharge hole 222a for discharging the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substance inside the liquid storage part 221 to the outside.

[0066] The slider 207 is combined with the main body 210 in a manner that slides relative to the main body 210. The slider 207 covers at least a part of the mouthpiece 222 of the cartridge 220 combined with the main body 210, or exposes at least a part of the mouthpiece 222 to the outside by moving relative to the main body 210. The slider 207 includes a long hole 207a that exposes at least a part of the convex window 221a of the cartridge 220.

[0067] The slider 207 has a hollow container shape with both ends open. The structure of the slider 207 is not limited to the container shape shown in the drawings, and the slider 207 may have a bent plate structure with a clamp-shaped cross-section, capable of moving relative to the main body 210 in a state of being combined with the edge of the main body 210, or have a curved semi-cylindrical shape with a curved circular arc cross-section.

[0068] The slider 207 includes a magnetic body for maintaining the position of the slider 207 relative to the main body 210 and the cartridge 220. The magnetic body may include a permanent magnet or materials such as iron, nickel, cobalt, or their alloys.

[0069] The magnetic body includes: two first magnetic bodies 208a, spaced apart from each other with the inner space of the slider 207 therebetween; and two second magnetic bodies 208b, spaced apart from each other with the inner space of the slider 207 therebetween. The first magnetic bodies 208a and the second magnetic bodies 208b may be spaced apart from each other in the length direction of the main body 210, which is the moving direction of the slider 207, i.e., the direction in which the main body 210 extends.

[0070] The main body 210 includes fixed magnetic bodies 209, arranged on the paths along which the first magnetic bodies 208a and the second magnetic bodies 208b of the slider 207 move during the movement of the slider 207 relative to the main body 210. The two fixed magnetic bodies 209 of the main body 210 may be spaced apart from each other and installed in such a way that the accommodation space 219 is therebetween.

[0071] According to the position of the slider 207, the slider 207 can be stably maintained at a position covering or exposing the end of the mouthpiece 222 under the action of the magnetic force between the fixed magnetic body 209 and the first magnetic body 208a, or between the fixed magnetic body 209 and the second magnetic body 208b.

[0072] The main body 210 includes a position change detection sensor 203, arranged on the paths along which the first magnetic bodies 208a and the second magnetic bodies 208b of the slider 207 move when the slider 207 moves relative to the main body 210. The position change detection sensor 203 may include, for example, a Hall sensor that detects a change in the magnetic field using the Hall effect and generates a signal.

[0073] In the aerosol generating device 200 of the above embodiment, the main body 210, the cartridge 220, and the slider 207 have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape in the cross-sectional direction. However, in the embodiment, the shape of the aerosol generating device 200 is not limited. The aerosol generating device 200 may have, for example, a circular, oval, square, or polygonal cross-sectional shape of various shapes. In addition, the aerosol generating device 200 may not only have a structure linearly extending in the longitudinal direction, but also be curved in a streamline shape and extend outward, or be curved at a preset angle in a specific area and extend outward for the user to hold.

[0074] Figures 3 to 4B It is a diagram showing an example of a cigarette inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0075] Referring to Figure 3 , the aerosol generating device 300 (for example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 's aerosol generating devices 100, 200) may include a battery 310, a controller 320, and a heater 330. Referring to Figure 4A and Figure 4B , the aerosol generating device 400 may further include a vaporizer 440. In addition, cigarettes 340, 450 may be inserted into the internal spaces of the aerosol generating devices 300, 400.

[0076] Figures 3 to 4B Shows the components of the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 related to this embodiment. Therefore, those of ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment pertains will understand that other general components in addition to Figures 3 to 4B the components shown may also be included in the aerosol generating device 300.

[0077] In addition, Figure 4A and Figure 4B show that the aerosol generating device 400 (for example, Figures 1 to 3 's aerosol generating devices 100, 200, 300) includes a heater 430. However, the heater 430 may be omitted according to needs.

[0078] Figure 3 Shows the battery 310, the controller 320, and the heater 330 arranged in a column. In addition, Figure 4A shows the battery 410, the controller 420, the vaporizer 440, and the heater 430 arranged in a row. In addition, Figure 4B shows the vaporizer 440 and the heater 430 arranged side by side. However, the internal structures of the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 are not limited to Figures 3 to 4BThe structures shown. In other words, the batteries 310, 410, the controllers 320, 420, the heaters 330, 430, and the vaporizers 440 can be set differently according to the designs of the aerosol generating devices 300, 400.

[0079] When the cigarettes 340, 450 are inserted into the aerosol generating devices 300, 400, the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 can generate aerosol from the cigarettes 340, 450 and / or the vaporizers 440 by operating the heaters 330, 430 and / or the vaporizers 440. The aerosol generated by the heaters 330, 430 and / or the vaporizers 440 is transmitted to the user through the cigarettes 340, 450.

[0080] Even when the cigarettes 340, 450 are not inserted into the aerosol generating devices 300, 400, the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 can heat the heaters 330, 430 as needed.

[0081] The batteries 310, 410 can supply the electric power required for the operation of the aerosol generating devices 300, 400. For example, the batteries 310, 410 can supply the electric power required to heat the heaters 330, 430 or the vaporizers 440, and supply the electric power required to operate the controllers 320, 420. In addition, the batteries 310, 410 can supply the electric power required to operate the displays, sensors, motors, etc. installed in the aerosol generating devices 300, 400.

[0082] The controllers 320, 420 overall control the operation of the aerosol generating devices 300, 400. Specifically, the controllers 320, 420 can not only control the operation of the batteries 310, 410, the heaters 330, 430, and the vaporizers 440, but also control the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating devices 300, 400. In addition, the controllers 320, 420 can confirm whether the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 can operate by confirming the states of each component in the aerosol generating devices 300, 400.

[0083] The controllers 320, 420 can include at least one processor. The processor can be implemented by an array composed of multiple logic gates, or can be implemented by a combination of a general - purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the microprocessor. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the processor can be implemented in other hardware forms.

[0084] The heaters 330, 430 can be heated by the electric power supplied from the batteries 310, 410. For example, when the cigarettes 340, 450 are inserted into the aerosol generating devices 300, 400, the heaters 330, 430 can be located outside the cigarettes 340, 450. Therefore, the heated heaters 330, 430 can increase the temperature of the aerosol forming material in the cigarettes 340, 450.

[0085] The heaters 330, 430 can include resistive heaters. For example, the heaters 330, 430 can include conductive tracks, and the heaters 330, 430 can be heated when an electric current flows through the conductive tracks. However, the heaters 330, 430 are not limited to the above examples and can include all heaters capable of heating to a desired temperature. The desired temperature can be preset in the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 or can be set to the temperature desired by the user.

[0086] As another example, the heaters 330, 430 can include inductive heaters. Specifically, the heaters 330, 430 can include conductive coils for heating the cigarettes in an inductive heating manner, and the cigarettes can include heat-sensitive bodies heated by the inductive heaters.

[0087] For example, the heaters 330, 430 can include tubular heating elements, plate-shaped heating elements, needle-shaped heating elements or rod-shaped heating elements, and can heat the cigarettes 340, 450 from the outside or inside according to the shape of the heating elements.

[0088] In addition, the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 can include a plurality of heaters 330, 430. Among them, the plurality of heaters 330, 430 can be inserted into the cigarettes 340, 450 or can be arranged outside the cigarettes 340, 450. In addition, a part of the plurality of heaters 330, 430 can be inserted into the cigarettes 340, 450, and another part can be arranged outside the cigarettes 340, 450. In addition, the shape of the heaters 330, 430 is not limited to Figures 3 to 4B the shape shown and can include various shapes.

[0089] The vaporizer 440 can generate an aerosol by heating a liquid composition, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the cigarette 450. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 440 can move along the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device 400, and the airflow channel can be arranged such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 440 is delivered to the user through the cigarette 450.

[0090] For example, the vaporizer 440 may include a liquid storage unit, a liquid delivery element, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid delivery element, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 400 as separate modules.

[0091] The liquid storage unit may store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a tobacco-containing substance containing volatile tobacco flavor components, or may be a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage unit may be detachably installed with the vaporizer 440, or may be integrally formed with the vaporizer 440.

[0092] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavorant, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit flavor components, but is not limited thereto. The flavorant may include components capable of providing various flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the liquid composition may include aerosol-forming agents such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0093] The liquid delivery element may deliver the liquid composition of the liquid storage unit to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery element may be a wick material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous fiber, but is not limited thereto.

[0094] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition delivered by the liquid delivery element. For example, the heating element may be a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the heating element may include a conductive wire such as a nichrome wire and may be arranged to wind around the liquid delivery element. The heating element may be heated by an electric current supply and may transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[0095] For example, the vaporizer 440 may be referred to as an atomizing device or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0096] The aerosol generating devices 300, 400 may further include general components other than the batteries 310, 410, the controllers 320, 420, the heaters 330, 430, and the vaporizers 440. For example, the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Additionally, the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 may include at least one sensor (such as a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, a cigarette insertion detection sensor, etc.). Additionally, the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 may have a structure that allows external air to flow in or internal air to be discharged even when the cigarettes 340, 450 are inserted into the aerosol generating devices 300, 400.

[0097] Even if not shown in Figures 3 to 4B The aerosol generating devices 300, 400 may form a system together with a separately provided cradle. For example, the cradle may charge the batteries 310, 410 of the aerosol generating devices 300, 400. Or, when the cradle is combined with the aerosol generating device 300, the heater 330, 430 may be heated.

[0098] The cigarettes 340, 450 may be similar to ordinary combustible cigarettes. For example, the cigarettes 340, 450 may be divided into a first part containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part including a filter, etc. Or, the second part of the cigarettes 340, 450 may also contain an aerosol generating substance. For example, the aerosol generating substance made in a particulate shape or a capsule shape may be inserted into the second part.

[0099] The whole of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating devices 300, 400, and the second part may be exposed. Or, only a part of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating devices 300, 400, or the whole of the first part and a part of the second part may be inserted into the aerosol generating devices 300, 400. The user may inhale the aerosol with the second part held in the user's mouth. In this case, the external air passing through the first part forms an aerosol, and the generated aerosol is transmitted to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0100] For example, external air may flow into at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating devices 300, 400. For example, the opening and closing and / or the size of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating devices 300, 400 may be adjusted by the user. Thus, the user may adjust the atomization amount and the smoking sensation. As another example, external air may flow into the cigarettes 340, 450 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarettes 340, 450.

[0101] According to various embodiments, the aerosol generating device may include Figures 1 to 4BAt least one of the aerosol generating devices 100, 200, 300, 400. For example, the components of the aerosol generating device can be arranged in different ways and different types of cigarettes of the Figures 1 to 4B embodiments can be used. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can include at least a part of the structure and / or function of the aerosol generating devices 100 to 400. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation method of the aerosol generating device can be the same as or similar to the aerosol generation methods of the aerosol generating devices 100 to 400.

[0102] Figure 5 is a block diagram of the components of the aerosol generating device in some embodiments.

[0103] Referring to Figure 5 , the device 50 (e.g., Figures 1 to 4B the aerosol generating devices 100, 200, 300, and 400) can include a battery 510, a system-in-package (SIP) 520, and a heater assembly 530. Figure 5 The device 50 includes components related to this embodiment. Therefore, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the device 50 can also include other components in addition to Figure 5 the components shown. The devices 50 of various embodiments can include Figures 1 to 4B at least a part of the structure and / or function of the aerosol generating devices 100, 200, 300, 400.

[0104] The SIP 520 can include a micro control unit (MCU) 521 (e.g., Figure 1 the controller 140 of Figures 3 to 4B and the controllers 320, 420 of Figure 5 ), a foreign object detector 522, a temperature detector 523, and a molding 524. Those of ordinary skill in the art understand that Figure 5 the SIP 520 can also include other components in addition to Figures 3 to 4B the components shown.

[0105] Referring to Figure 5 , in the SIP 520, various semiconductor devices and / or passive components for controlling the device 50 can be installed. Additionally, components that can be disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) can be installed in the SIP 520. The SIP 520 can be formed from a single wafer.

[0106] The foreign object detector 522 can detect foreign objects generated in or invading the device 50 and / or the molding 524 of the SIP 520. For example, the foreign objects can include droplets, liquids, vapors, etc.

[0107] The foreign object detector 522 may include at least one sensor (e.g., a liquid leakage detection sensor, a water leakage detection sensor, etc.). For example, the foreign object detector 522 may detect foreign objects on at least a part of the module 524 of the SIP 520 by detecting changes in resistance, magnetic field, color, etc.

[0108] The foreign object detector 522 may detect the amount of foreign objects according to a preset period (e.g., 1 ms). The amount of foreign objects detected by the foreign object detector 522 may be compared with a threshold preset by the MCU 521 (e.g., the threshold for the SIP to operate normally). When the amount of foreign objects is greater than the preset threshold, the MCU 521 may stop the heating operation of the heater assembly 530. When the amount of foreign objects is less than or equal to the preset threshold (e.g., when no foreign objects are detected), the MCU 521 may allow the heating operation of the heater assembly 530 to be executed.

[0109] The temperature detector 523 may detect the temperature of each part in the SIP 520. For example, the temperature detector 523 may be connected to the components of the SIP 520 and may detect the temperature of each component (e.g., the temperature of each part).

[0110] The temperature detector 523 may include at least one sensor (e.g., a thermistor). For example, the temperature detector 523 may be directly connected to or connected adjacent to each part in the SIP 520 to detect their temperatures.

[0111] The temperature detector 523 may perform temperature detection according to a preset period (e.g., 1 ms). The MCU 521 may compare the detected temperature with a preset threshold (e.g., the threshold for determining the overheat state of the SIP). When the temperature of at least one component and / or the sum of the temperatures of each component is greater than the preset threshold, the MCU 521 may stop the heating operation of the heater assembly 530. When the sum of the detected temperatures is less than or equal to the preset threshold, the MCU 521 may allow the heating operation of the heater assembly 530 to be executed. According to another embodiment, the heat dissipation function of the module 524 may be utilized to detect the temperature of at least one component and / or the sum of the component temperatures. For example, the temperature detector 523 may be connected to the module 524, detect the temperature of at least a part of the module 524, and determine the temperature of at least one component and / or the sum of the component temperatures based on the temperature of the module 524.

[0112] The module 524 may cover all the components disposed on the wafer. For example, the module 524 may completely surround the SIP 520, or only surround the upper side where the components are disposed.

[0113] The module 524 may include a material that releases (i.e., dissipates) heat and is waterproof. For example, the module 524 may include an epoxy molding compound (EMC) and thus protect the outer side of the SIP 520. Herein, the EMC is merely an example of the material used to fabricate the module 524, and materials having the same and / or similar functions may be used instead. As a heat dissipation function, the module 524 may dissipate the heat inside the SIP 520 according to the increase in the component temperature, thereby reducing the temperature of the SIP 520. For example, the module 524 may dissipate the heat on the outer side of the SIP 520 adjacent to the battery 510 and the heater assembly 530, reducing the temperature of the SIP 520.

[0114] The heater assembly 530 may include a heating unit 531 for heating a cigarette, and may include Figure 1 the heater assembly 110 and / or Figures 3 to 4B at least one of the structures and / or functions of the heaters 330, 430.

[0115] Even if not shown in Figure 5 , the device 50 may include a memory, and the memory may be included as a component of the SIP 520. The memory (not shown) may store the data processed in the device 50. For example, the memory may store the data processed and to be processed in the MCU 521. The memory may store the settings related to the detection periods of the foreign object detector 522 and the temperature detector 523. Additionally, the memory may store the settings related to the threshold value regarding the amount of foreign objects and the threshold value regarding the temperature of the module 524 or the SIP 520.

[0116] Figure 6A and Figure 6B are respectively the top view and the side view of the SIP of a partial embodiment.

[0117] Figure 6A is the top view of the SIP of a partial embodiment. Referring to Figure 6A , the SIP 60 (e.g., Figure 5 the SIP 520) may include an MCU 610, a heating integrated circuit (IC) 620, a memory 630, a sensor module 640, a charging integrated circuit 650, and a communication module 660. Figure 6A The SIP 60 of Figure 6A is merely an example. Therefore, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that one or more components may be omitted, or the SIP 60 may further include other components in addition to Figure 6A the components shown in Figure 1 According to various embodiments, Figures 3 to 4B the MCU 610 of Figure 5At least a part of the structure and / or function of the MCU 521. Additionally, Figure 6A The sensor module 640 may include Figure 5 At least a part of the structure and / or function of the foreign object detector 522 and / or the temperature detector 523.

[0118] Referring to Figure 6A , the heating integrated circuit 620 may include a circuit that controls the heater to perform a heating operation in an inductive heating manner. For example, the heating integrated circuit 620 may cause the heater assembly to perform a heating operation under the control of the MCU 610 by providing an electrical signal.

[0119] Referring to Figure 6A , the memory 630 may store data processed and to be processed in the MCU 610. The memory 630 may store settings related to the detection period of the sensor module 640, as well as settings related to the threshold for the amount of foreign objects and the threshold for the temperature of the module or SIP 60.

[0120] Referring to Figure 6A , the charging integrated circuit 650 may control the charging of the battery (e.g., Figure 1 the power supply 130 and Figures 3 to 5 the batteries 310, 410, and 510). For example, when power for charging the battery is supplied from the outside, the charging integrated circuit 650 may charge the battery. According to some embodiments, when the aerosol generating device (e.g., Figures 1 to 4B the aerosol generating devices 100 to 400 and Figure 5 the device 50) supports wireless charging, the charging integrated circuit 650 of the SIP 60 may be arranged to overlap with the battery.

[0121] Referring to Figure 6A , the communication module 660 may include a structure that supports communication with an external device.

[0122] Figure 6B is a side view of the SIP of some embodiments. For example, semiconductor devices, system-on-chip (SoC), and / or passive components may be encapsulated in the SIP 60. Figure 6B shows two separate chips stacked on a substrate, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the components 610, 620 formed on a single wafer may be encapsulated by wafer-level packaging technology (WLP). In this case, the components 610, 620 of the SIP 60 may be encapsulated by using a single molding process of the module 670. The components 610, 620 of the SIP 60 are merely an example and may be replaced by other components or additional components may be added.

[0123] Referring to Figure 6B, components 610 and 620 of the SIP 60 may include micro-connection bumps 684. The micro-connection bumps 684 may be terminals for inputting signals to the circuit device or receiving signals output from the circuit device, and may be arranged to connect components 610 and 620 to the underlying wiring pattern. However, when packaging components from a single wafer through wafer-level packaging technology (WLP), the micro-connection bumps 684 may be omitted.

[0124] Referring to Figure 6B , the wiring portion 681 may include various wiring patterns. For example, the wiring portion 681 may include upper wiring, via electrodes, lower wiring, etc. Among them, the upper wiring may include pads to which the micro-connection bumps 684 of components 610 and 620 are connected. The via electrodes may connect the upper wiring and the lower wiring. The lower wiring may be electrically connected to the circuits of components 610 and 620, electrodes 682, solder balls 683, etc. According to an embodiment, the wiring pattern may represent the wiring portion 681. When packaging the SIP 60 through wafer-level packaging technology (WLP), each component (e.g., Figure 6A components 610 and 660) may be electrically connected to each other through the wiring pattern. Some embodiments Figure 6A and Figure 6B of the examples illustrate a stacked structure, but one or more embodiments are not limited thereto. When packaging components through wafer-level packaging technology (WLP), components having a stacked structure may be omitted, or other components may be used to replace the existing components.

[0125] Referring to Figure 6B , each of components 610 and 620 may correspond to the components shown on one side of the SIP 60. That is, other components 630 to 660 of Figure 6A may be observed from different perspectives.

[0126] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a working method of an aerosol generating device in some embodiments.

[0127] Referring to Figure 7 , the working method of the aerosol generating device may include steps performed in the Figures 1 to 4B aerosol generating device and the Figure 5 device 50 of Figures 1 to 4B . Therefore, even if omitted, the provided descriptions related to the Figure 5 aerosol generating devices 100 to 400 and the Figure 7 device 50 of

[0128] In step 710, the aerosol generating device may determine whether to Figures 5 to 6B from a module of the SIP (e.g.,Figures 5 to 6B The modules 524, 670) detect foreign matter. The threshold related to the amount of foreign matter detected by a foreign matter detector (e.g., Figure 5 the foreign matter detector 522) can be an experimental value. The threshold can be set to: ignore the amount of foreign matter that does not affect the operation of the aerosol generating device and does not damage the components. When the aerosol generating device determines that no foreign matter is detected from the module, the aerosol generating device can perform the heating operation of the heater assembly (e.g., Figure 1 the heater assembly 110, Figures 3 to 4B the heaters 330, 340 and Figure 5 the heater assembly 530). In Figure 7 , steps 710 and 720 may not be executed in order. For example, the aerosol generating device can repeatedly execute step 710 according to a preset period, and the aerosol generating device can determine whether to perform the heating operation of the heater assembly based on the presence or absence of foreign matter (i.e., the method can skip step 720 and execute step 730 or step 740). In this case, when no foreign matter is detected from the module, the aerosol generating device can execute step 730 to perform the heating operation of the heater assembly. On the other hand, when foreign matter is detected from the module, the aerosol generating device executes step 740 to stop the heating operation of the heater assembly.

[0129] In step 720, the aerosol generating device can determine whether the module is overheated. The aerosol generating device can determine the overheated state of the SIP based on the temperature of the module. The threshold related to the temperature detected by a temperature detector (e.g., Figure 5 the temperature detector 523) can be an experimental value (i.e., the threshold can be set based on the experimental value). The threshold can be set to: ignore the temperature that does not affect the operation of the internal components of the aerosol generating device and does not damage the internal components. For example, the aerosol generating device can repeatedly execute step 720 according to a preset period, and can determine whether to perform the heating operation of the heater assembly based on whether the module is overheated. According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device determines that the module is in a normal state (i.e., not overheated), the aerosol generating device can execute step 730 to perform the heating operation of the heater assembly. On the other hand, when the aerosol generating device determines that the module is overheated, the aerosol generating device can execute step 740 to stop the heating operation of the heater assembly.

[0130] Figure 8A and Figure 8B are diagrams showing the configurations of aerosol generating devices in some embodiments.

[0131] Referring to Figure 8A and Figure 8B , the aerosol generating device 80 (e.g., Figures 1 to 4B the aerosol generating devices 100 to 400 andFigure 5 The device 50) may include a battery 810 (e.g., Figure 1 a power supply 130 and Figures 3 to 5 batteries 310, 410, 510), a SIP 820 (e.g., Figure 5 a SIP 520 and Figure 6A and Figure 6B a SIP 60), and a heater assembly 830 (e.g., Figure 1 a heater assembly 110, Figures 3 to 4B heaters 330, 430, and Figure 5 a heater assembly 530). A module 821 of the SIP 820 may cover at least a portion of the SIP 820.

[0132] Referring to Figure 8A , in the aerosol generating device 80, the battery 810 and the SIP 820 may be disposed below a heater assembly 830 for inserting a cigarette and heating the cigarette. The description of the battery 810 and the SIP 820 being arranged side by side is merely an example. According to another embodiment, at least a portion of the SIP 820 may be stacked on at least a portion of the battery 810. For example, when the size of the SIP 820 including the module 821 is the same as or similar to the size of the battery 810, the battery 810 and the SIP 820 may be installed in the aerosol generating device 80 in a state where they overlap each other.

[0133] Referring to Figure 8B , in the aerosol generating device 80, the SIP 820 may be disposed below a heater assembly 830 for inserting a cigarette and heating the cigarette, and the battery 810 may be disposed below the SIP 820. The description of the battery 810 and the SIP 820 being arranged one above the other is merely an example. At least a portion of the SIP 820 may be stacked on at least a portion of the battery 810. For example, when the size of the SIP 820 including the module 821 is the same as or similar to the size of the battery 810, the battery 810 and the SIP 820 may be installed in the aerosol generating device 80 in a state where they overlap each other.

[0134] Those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present embodiment pertains can understand that various changes can be made in terms of shape and details without departing from the above features. The disclosed method should be considered only from an illustrative perspective rather than a restrictive perspective. The scope of the present invention is defined by the scope of the appended claims rather than by the above description, and all differences within the same scope should be construed as being included in the present invention.

Claims

1. A system-in-package for an aerosol generating device, wherein, Comprising: A microcontroller unit; A sensor module; And At least one of a memory, a charging integrated circuit, and a communication module.

2. The system-level package according to claim 1, wherein The system-in-package further includes a heating integrated circuit configured to control the heating operation of a heater assembly included in the aerosol generating device.

3. The system-in-package according to claim 2, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to control the heating integrated circuit to stop the heating operation when the sensor module detects a foreign object from a module of the system-in-package, and to control the heating integrated circuit to continue the heating operation of the heater assembly when no foreign object is detected from the module.

4. The system-in-package according to claim 3, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to control the heating integrated circuit to stop the heating operation when the amount of the foreign object detected by the sensor module is greater than a preset threshold.

5. The system-in-package according to claim 2, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to control the heating integrated circuit to stop the heating operation when the temperature of at least one component of the system-in-package detected by the sensor module is greater than a preset threshold.

6. The system-in-package according to claim 2, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to control the heating integrated circuit to stop the heating operation when the sum of the temperatures of the components in the system-in-package is greater than a preset threshold.

7. The system-in-package according to claim 1, wherein, The module of the system-in-package is configured to cover at least a part of the outside of the system-in-package and dissipate the heat inside the system-in-package.

8. The system-in-package according to claim 7, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to detect a foreign object intruding into the module through the sensor module.

9. The system-in-package according to claim 1, wherein, The microcontroller unit, the sensor module, and the at least one of the memory, the charging integrated circuit, and the communication module are packaged by wafer-level packaging technology.

10. An aerosol generating device, comprising: A heater assembly configured to heat a cigarette inserted into the aerosol generating device; A battery configured to supply power to the heater assembly; And A system-in-package, comprising: A microcontroller unit; A sensor module; and At least one of a memory, a charging integrated circuit, and a communication module.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein, The system-in-package further includes a heating integrated circuit configured to control the heating operation of the heater assembly.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to control the heating integrated circuit to stop the heating operation when the sensor module detects a foreign object from a module of the system-in-package, and to control the heating integrated circuit to continue the heating operation of the heater assembly when no foreign object is detected from the module.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to control the heating integrated circuit to stop the heating operation when the temperature of at least one component of the system-in-package detected by the sensor module is greater than a preset threshold.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to control the heating integrated circuit to stop the heating operation when the sum of the temperatures of the components in the system-in-package is greater than a preset threshold.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein, The module of the system-in-package is configured to cover at least a part of the outside of the system-in-package and dissipate the heat inside the system-in-package.

16. The aerosol generating device according to claim 15, wherein, The microcontroller unit is configured to detect foreign objects invading the module through the sensor module.

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