Aerosol-generating device and aerosol-generating system including same

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment may comprise: a housing formed with an elongated cavity for accommodating an aerosol-generating article; the control part is accommodated in the shell and comprises at least one processor; a vaporizer that heats a liquid composition to generate an aerosol and discharges the aerosol toward the aerosol-generating article; and a measuring unit that measures the use state of the aerosol-generating product.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same. Background Art

[0002] Currently, research is underway on non-combustion cigarettes. For example, Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0132823 discloses a non-combustion flavor inhaler, a flavor source unit, and an atomization unit. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical problems to be solved

[0004] An aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same according to an embodiment are intended to effectively determine whether an aerosol generating article that can be used under non-heating conditions is reused.

[0005] An aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same according to an embodiment are intended to accurately determine whether an aerosol generating article is reused even under excessive humidity conditions.

[0006] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment and an aerosol generating system including the same are intended to effectively determine an over-humidity condition.

[0007] An aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment and an aerosol-generating system including the same are intended to effectively determine or verify the type of an aerosol-generating article.

[0008] Technical solutions to solve problems

[0009] According to one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may include: a housing forming an elongated cavity for accommodating an aerosol-generating article; a control unit accommodated within the housing and comprising at least one processor; and a measuring unit for measuring a usage status of the aerosol-generating article. The measuring unit may include: a first sensor for measuring a status of the aerosol-generating article at a first position within the elongated cavity; and a second sensor for measuring a status of the aerosol-generating article at a second position within the elongated cavity; the first position and the second position may be spaced apart along the length of the elongated cavity.

[0010] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include: a vaporizer, heating the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and discharging the aerosol toward the aerosol generating article.

[0011] In one embodiment, the measuring unit may include at least two capacitive sensors.

[0012] In one embodiment, the measuring portion may include: a first capacitive sensor, disposed at a first position of the elongated cavity; and a second capacitive sensor, disposed at a second position of the elongated cavity, wherein the first position and the second position may be spaced apart in a length direction along the elongated cavity.

[0013] The control portion may determine whether the aerosol-generating article is reused based on a difference between a first capacitance measured by the first capacitance sensor and a second capacitance measured by the second capacitance sensor.

[0014] When the absolute value of the difference is greater than a set range, the control unit may determine that the aerosol-generating product has been reused.

[0015] When a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor or a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point is above a set range, the control unit may determine that the aerosol-generating article is placed in an over-humidity condition.

[0016] The control unit may determine that the aerosol generating article has been reused when an absolute value of a difference between a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor and a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point is above a set range.

[0017] The control portion may determine or verify the type of the aerosol-generating article based on a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor or a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point.

[0018] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating system may include: an aerosol generating article; and an aerosol generating device, including: a shell, forming a slender cavity for accommodating the aerosol generating article; a control unit, accommodated in the shell and including at least one processor; a vaporizer, heating a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and discharging the aerosol toward the aerosol generating article; and a measuring unit, measuring the usage status of the aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article may include: a first section; a medium section, arranged downstream of the first section and accommodating a medium; and a second section, arranged downstream of the medium section.

[0019] In one embodiment, the media segment may include a pH-treated tobacco medium, and nicotine transferred from the media segment may be adsorbed onto the first segment or the second segment.

[0020] In one embodiment, the measuring portion may include: a first capacitive sensor, disposed at a first position of the elongated cavity; and a second capacitive sensor, disposed at a second position of the elongated cavity, wherein the first position and the second position may be spaced apart in a length direction along the elongated cavity.

[0021] The control unit may determine that the aerosol-generating article has been reused when an absolute value of a difference between a first capacitance measured by the first capacitance sensor and a second capacitance measured by the second capacitance sensor is above a set range.

[0022] When a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor or a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point is above a set range, the control unit may determine that the aerosol-generating article is placed in an over-humidity condition.

[0023] The control portion may determine or verify the type of the aerosol-generating article based on a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor or a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point.

[0024] Technical Effects

[0025] According to one embodiment, it is possible to effectively determine whether an aerosol-generating article that can be used under non-heating conditions is reused.

[0026] According to one embodiment, even under excessively humid conditions, it is possible to accurately determine whether an aerosol-generating article has been reused.

[0027] According to one embodiment, an over-humidity condition can be effectively determined.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into an aerosol-generating device may be effectively determined or verified.

[0029] The effects of the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating system including the same according to an embodiment are not limited to the above-mentioned contents, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 An aerosol generating system according to an embodiment is shown.

[0031] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol-generating article included in an aerosol-generating system according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 4 is a change in capacitance of the aerosol-generating article measured between an unused state and a reused state in an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 5 is the change in capacitance of the aerosol-generating article in an over-humidified state measured in an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] When selecting terms used in the embodiments, the functions of the embodiments were taken into consideration, and widely used general terms were selected whenever possible. However, differences may exist based on the intentions of practitioners in the field, precedents, new technologies, etc. In specific cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, but in such cases, the meaning of the terms will be explained in detail in the specification. Therefore, the terms used in this specification are not simple terms and should be defined according to the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention.

[0036] When a section is described throughout the specification as "including" a component, unless otherwise specified, it means that other components may also be included and does not mean that other components are excluded. In addition, terms such as "-section" and "-module" described in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or task, which can be implemented by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0037] In this specification, when the expression "at least one" or the like appears before a list of constituent elements, it does not modify each of the constituent elements listed individually but rather modifies the entire list. For example, "at least one of a, b, and c" refers to the following: a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; or a, b, and c.

[0038] Figure 1 An aerosol generating system 1 according to an embodiment is shown, Figure 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 11 according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the aerosol-generating article 12 included in the aerosol-generating system 1 according to an embodiment.

[0039] Reference Figures 1 to 3 According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating system 1 may include an aerosol generating device 11 and an aerosol generating article 12 .

[0040] Reference Figure 1 (a) Figure 1 (b) and Figure 2According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 11 may include a housing 111, a control unit 112, a vaporizer 113, a measuring unit 114, and a battery 115. An elongated cavity 1112 may be formed in the housing 111.

[0041] Figure 1 (a) and Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 11 shown in (b) only shows the components related to this embodiment. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that except for Figure 1 (a) Figure 1 In addition to the components shown in (b) of FIG. 1 , the aerosol generating device 11 may further include other common components. In addition, the aerosol generating device 11 may be in the form of a cigarette stick or a holder.

[0042] In one embodiment, the battery 115 can provide the power required to operate the aerosol generating device 11. For example, the battery 115 can supply power to the vaporizer 113 to heat the liquid composition. Furthermore, the battery 115 can supply power to the measuring unit 114 to measure capacitance. Furthermore, the battery 115 can provide the power required to operate the display, sensors, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device 11.

[0043] In one embodiment, the battery 115 may be a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the battery 115 may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, a lithium ion battery, and the like. For example, the battery 115 may be cylindrical with a diameter of 10 mm and a length of 37 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the capacity of the battery 115 may be 120 mAh to 250 mAh, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the battery 115 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, when the battery 115 is rechargeable, the charging rate of the battery 115 may be 10 C, and the discharging rate may be 10 C to 20 C, but is not limited thereto. In addition, in order to achieve static use, the battery 115 should be manufactured to ensure more than 80% of the total capacity even after 2000 charge / discharge cycles.

[0044] In one embodiment, the control unit 112 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 11. Specifically, in addition to the vaporizer 113, the measuring unit 114, and the battery 115, the control unit 112 can also control the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 11. In addition, the control unit 112 can confirm the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 11 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 11 is in an operable state.

[0045] In one embodiment, the control unit 112 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory, wherein the memory stores programs executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the at least one processor may be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0046] In one embodiment, the vaporizer 113 can heat a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and discharge the generated aerosol toward the aerosol-generating article 12 inserted into the elongated cavity 1112, so that the generated aerosol flows through the inserted aerosol-generating article 12. This adds tobacco flavor to the aerosol flowing through the aerosol-generating article 12, and the user can inhale the tobacco-flavored aerosol by inhaling one end of the aerosol-generating article 12 with their mouth. In one embodiment, the vaporizer 113 may also be referred to as a cartomizer or atomizer. In one embodiment, the vaporizer 113 can be replaceably coupled to the aerosol-generating device 11. Furthermore, when the front end of the aerosol-generating article 12 is equipped with an atomizing section, the vaporizer 113 can be omitted from the aerosol-generating device 11. In this case, the aerosol-generating device 11 may further include a heater, which may be disposed at least partially around the atomizing section or inserted within the atomizing section.

[0047] In addition to the control unit 112, vaporizer 113, battery 115 and elongated cavity 1112, the aerosol generating device 11 may also include common components. For example, the aerosol generating device 11 may include a sensing unit 116, an output unit 117, a user input unit 118, a memory 119 and a communication unit 120.

[0048] The sensing unit 116 can detect the state of the aerosol generating device 11 or the state of the surroundings of the aerosol generating device 11 and transmit the detected information to the control unit 112. The control unit 112 can control the aerosol generating device 11 to perform various functions based on the detected information, such as restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article 12 (e.g., a cigarette stick, a cigarette, a cartridge, etc.) is inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0049] The sensing portion 116 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 1161 , an insertion detection sensor 1162 , and a suction sensor 1163 , but is not limited thereto.

[0050] The temperature sensor 1161 may detect the heating temperature of the heating element of the heater or vaporizer 113. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 1161 may be provided around the battery 115 to monitor the temperature of the battery 115.

[0051] The insertion detection sensor 1162 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article 12. For example, the insertion detection sensor 1162 can include at least one of a membrane sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, which can detect a signal change when the aerosol-generating article 12 is inserted and / or removed.

[0052] The puff sensor 1163 can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 1163 can detect the user's puff based on any one of temperature change, flow change, voltage change, and pressure change.

[0053] In addition to the above-mentioned sensors 1161 to 1163, the sensing unit 116 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., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0054] The output unit 117 can output status information about the aerosol generating device 11 to the user. The output unit 117 may include at least one of a display unit 1171, a tactile unit 1172, and a sound output unit 1173, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 1171 and a touch panel are provided in a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit 1171 can also function as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0055] The display unit 1171 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 11 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 11 can include various information such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 115 of the aerosol generating device 11, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article 12, or the use restriction status of the aerosol generating device 11 (e.g., the insertion of a reused aerosol generating article 12, the detection of an abnormal object), and the like. The display unit 1171 can output this information to the outside. The display unit 1171 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. The display unit 1171 can also be an LED light emitting element.

[0056] The haptic portion 1172 may convert the electrical signal into mechanical stimulation or electrical stimulation to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 11. For example, the haptic portion 1172 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0057] The sound output unit 1173 may provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 11 through sound. For example, the sound output unit 1173 may convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0058] The user input unit 118 may receive information input by the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 118 may include a keypad, a dome switch, a touch panel (contact capacitance type, pressure resistance film type, infrared sensor type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect method, etc.), a scroll wheel, a scroll wheel switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. Figure 2 Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 11 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to other external devices via the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 115.

[0059] The memory 119 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device 11. It can store data processed by the control unit 112 and data to be processed. The memory 119 is at least one storage medium selected from the group consisting of flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro memory, card-type memory (such as SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory 119 can store data such as the aerosol generating device 11's operating time, maximum number of puffs, current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0060] The communication unit 120 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 120 may include a short-range communication unit 1201 and a wireless communication unit 1202 .

[0061] The short-range communication unit (short-range wireless communication unit) 1201 includes a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit (Near Field Communication unit), a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0062] The wireless communication unit 1202 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 184 may use subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 11 within the communication network.

[0063] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 11 may include at least one input device (e.g., a button) and / or a terminal coupled to the bracket for a user to control the functions of the aerosol generating device 11. For example, a user can use the input device of the aerosol generating device 11 to perform various functions. The user can adjust the number of times the input device is pressed (e.g., once, twice, etc.) or the duration of the pressing (e.g., 0.1 seconds, 0.2 seconds, etc.) to perform a desired function among the multiple functions of the aerosol generating device 11. When the user operates the input device, functions such as preheating the heating element of the vaporizer 113, adjusting the temperature of the heating element of the vaporizer 113, cleaning the insertion space for the aerosol-generating article, checking whether the aerosol generating device 11 is in an operable state, displaying the remaining charge (available charge) of the battery 115, resetting the aerosol generating device 11, etc. can be performed. However, the functions of the aerosol generating device 11 are not limited to the above examples.

[0064] According to one embodiment, Figure 1 As shown in (a), the aerosol generating device 11 may include a vaporizer 113 and an elongated cavity 1112 arranged in series. According to another embodiment, as Figure 1As shown in (b), the aerosol generating device 11 may include a vaporizer 113 and an elongated cavity 1112 arranged in parallel. In addition, the arrangement of the control unit 112, vaporizer 113, battery 115 and elongated cavity 1112 of the aerosol generating device 11 is not limited to Figure 1 (a) and Figure 1 (b) can take many forms.

[0065] The aerosol generated by the vaporizer 113 can flow into the elongated cavity 1112 through the airflow path in the aerosol-generating device 11, thereby flowing through the aerosol-generating article 12. Therefore, tobacco flavor or nicotine can be added to the aerosol flowing through the aerosol-generating article 12, and the user can inhale the aerosol added with tobacco flavor or nicotine by inhaling one end of the aerosol-generating article 12 with the mouth.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the vaporizer 113 may include a liquid storage portion, a liquid transfer unit, a heating element, and an air flow path. Each component of the vaporizer 113 may be made of polycarbonate material, but is not limited thereto.

[0067] In one embodiment, the liquid reservoir can store a liquid composition that generates an aerosol when heated. According to one embodiment, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco material including volatile tobacco flavor components, while according to another embodiment, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. Furthermore, the liquid storage capacity of the liquid composition is 0.1 to 2.0 mL, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the liquid reservoir is incorporated into the vaporizer 113 in a replaceable manner.

[0068] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring, or a vitamin mixture. Flavorings may include, for example, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruity aromas, and the like, but are not limited thereto. Flavorings may include ingredients that provide the user with various aromas or flavors. 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 an aerosol former, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0069] In one embodiment, the liquid transfer unit can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid reservoir to the heating element. In one embodiment, the liquid transfer unit can be a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, which can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid reservoir to the heating element by capillary action.

[0070] In one embodiment, the heating element can be an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid transfer unit, and can be, for example, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, or the like. Furthermore, the heating element can include a conductive wire, such as a nickel-chromium wire, and can be arranged to be wound around the liquid transfer unit. Power is supplied to the heating element, causing it to begin heating, thereby transferring heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. Ultimately, an aerosol can be generated.

[0071] In one embodiment, the air flow path may be arranged to discharge the generated aerosol towards the inserted aerosol-generating article 12. That is, the aerosol generated by the heating element may be discharged through the air flow path.

[0072] In one embodiment, the control unit 112 can control the temperature of the heating element by controlling the power supplied to the heating element. Thus, the control unit 112 can control the amount of aerosol generated by the liquid composition by controlling the power supplied to the heating element. Furthermore, the control unit 112 can also control the heating element to be powered for a preset time period upon sensing a user puff. For example, the control unit 112 can control the heating element to be powered within 1 to 5 seconds after sensing a user puff.

[0073] In one embodiment, the control unit 112 can control the amount of aerosol discharged from the vaporizer 113 by controlling the opening and closing states of the airflow path. Specifically, the control unit 112 can increase the amount of aerosol discharged from the vaporizer 113 by increasing the size of the aperture in the airflow path, and decrease the amount of aerosol discharged from the vaporizer 113 by decreasing the size of the aperture in the airflow path. For example, the control unit 112 can use a dial method to control the aperture in the airflow path.

[0074] In one embodiment, when the liquid composition in the liquid storage portion is less than a preset amount, the control portion 112 may notify the user of insufficient liquid composition through a vibration motor or a display.

[0075] In one embodiment, the measuring unit 114 can measure the state of the aerosol-generating article 12 inserted into the elongated cavity 1112. The measuring unit 114 can include a first sensor (e.g., a first capacitive sensor 1141) and a second sensor (e.g., a second capacitive sensor 1142). The first sensor is used to measure the state of the aerosol-generating article 12 at a first position in the elongated cavity 1112, and the second sensor is used to measure the state of the aerosol-generating article at a second position in the elongated cavity. The first sensor and the second sensor can be arranged to be spaced apart in the length direction along the elongated cavity 1112. The measuring unit 114 will be described in detail later.

[0076] Reference Figure 3According to an embodiment, the aerosol-generating article 12 may include a first section 121 , a medium section 122 , a second section 123 and a wrapper 125 .

[0077] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article 12 may be wrapped with at least one wrapper 125. The wrapper 125 may be formed with at least one hole for allowing external air to flow in or internal air to flow out. The wrapper 125 may comprise a material having high thermal conductivity.

[0078] For example, the first section 121 can be wrapped with a first wrapper 1251, the media section 122 can be wrapped with a second wrapper 1252, and the second section 123 can be wrapped with a third wrapper 1253. In addition, the entire aerosol-generating article 12 can be wrapped again with a fifth wrapper 1255.

[0079] In one embodiment, the first wrapping paper 1251, the second wrapping paper 1252, and the third wrapping paper 1253 can be made of porous roll paper. For example, the porosity of the first wrapping paper 1251, the second wrapping paper 1252, and the third wrapping paper 1253 can be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the first wrapping paper 1251, the second wrapping paper 1252, and the third wrapping paper 1253 can be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the first wrapping paper 1251, the second wrapping paper 1252, and the third wrapping paper 1253 can be 20 g / m 2 Up to 25g / m 2 within the range.

[0080] In one embodiment, the fifth wrapping paper 1255 may be made of sterile paper (MFW). For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapping paper 1255 may be 57 g / m 2 Up to 63g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapping paper 1255 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm.

[0081] In one embodiment, the first segment 121 can be made of a cellulose acetate filter. Alternatively, the first segment 121 can be made of a paper filter, a porous molded part, or the like. For example, the length of the first segment 121 can be 4 mm to 15 mm, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the first segment 121 can be colored or scented.

[0082] On the other hand, the first section 121 can constitute an atomizing section. For example, the atomizing section 121 can be filled with a moisturizing agent, and the moisturizing agent can include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited thereto. When the first section 121 is constituted as an atomizing section, the aerosol generating device (for example, Figure 1The aerosol generating device 11) does not need to be equipped with an additional vaporizer (e.g., Figure 1 The vaporizer 113) includes a heater arranged around and / or inside the first section 121 as the atomization section.

[0083] In one embodiment, the media segment 122 may be filled with a medium. For example, the media segment 122 may include a cavity, and the cavity may be filled with the medium. As another example, the media segment 122 may include a cellulose acetate filter or a paper filter, and the media may be inserted into and filled with the cellulose acetate filter or the paper filter.

[0084] In one embodiment, the media matrix filled into the media segment 122 may include at least one component selected from granular tobacco (tobacco particles), reconstituted tobacco, and tobacco shreds. For example, the media segment 122 may have a suitable length ranging from 6 mm to 18 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0085] In general, the moisture and / or aerosol forming agent content of tobacco particles is significantly lower than that of other types of tobacco materials (such as shredded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.), so the generation of visible smoke can be greatly reduced, thereby facilitating the aerosol generating device 11 to achieve a smoke-free function. However, the diameter, density, filling rate, material composition ratio, heating temperature, etc. of the tobacco particles can vary depending on the embodiment. The diameter of the tobacco particles can be about 0.3mm to 1.2mm. Within this numerical range, the appropriate hardness of the tobacco particles can be guaranteed and they are easy to produce, and the probability of generating eddy currents in the cavity can be increased.

[0086] In addition, the medium segment 122 can also include other additives, such as flavorings, wetting agents and / or organic acids. In addition, the medium segment 122 can also include flavoring liquids, such as menthol or moisturizers, which are added by spraying onto the medium segment 122.

[0087] In one embodiment, the medium segment 122 can be filled with a pH-treated medium. For example, the medium matrix can be pH-treated by a pH adjusting agent to have alkalinity. The pH adjusting agent can be alkaline, for example, it can include at least any one of potassium carbonate (K2CO3), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and calcium oxide (CaO). However, the materials included in the pH adjusting agent are not limited to the above examples, and materials that produce less negative odor during smoking can also be used. The alkaline pH adjusting agent can increase the pH of the medium matrix included in the medium segment 122. Compared with the medium matrix that has not been treated with the alkaline pH adjusting agent, the medium matrix that has been treated with the alkaline pH can increase the nicotine emission. That is, the medium matrix that has been treated with the alkaline pH can also obtain sufficient nicotine production from the medium segment at low temperatures.

[0088] In one embodiment, the media segment 122 may include pulped or paper-based reconstituted tobacco leaves adjusted to a pH between 7.0 and 9.5, or may include tobacco particles adjusted to a pH between 7.0 and 9.5. The media matrix may include nicotine and be treated to an alkaline pH, thereby enabling the transfer of free nicotine (gas-phase nicotine) from the media matrix even under non-heating conditions or relatively low temperature conditions. Specifically, by adjusting the pH of the media matrix of the media segment 122 to a range of 7.0 to 9.5, volatile free nicotine can be transferred under non-heating conditions (or low-temperature heating conditions) while achieving a sufficient level of tobacco flavor intensity.

[0089] In one embodiment, the second segment 123 may be made of a cellulose acetate filter. Alternatively, the second segment 123 may include at least one fragrance capsule. For example, the second segment 123 may be a cellulose acetate filter with at least one fragrance capsule inserted therein. Furthermore, the second segment 123 may be made of a cellulose acetate filter mixed with a fragrance material.

[0090] In one embodiment, nicotine can be adsorbed into at least one of the first segment 121 and the second segment 123. Since the pH of the medium segment 122 is within the range of 7.0 to 9.5, even under non-heating conditions, nicotine in the medium segment 122 is actively converted to free nicotine and transferred to the first segment 121 or the second segment 123. Consequently, nicotine transferred from the medium segment 122 can be adsorbed into at least one of the first segment 121 and the second segment 123. Since nicotine is present not only in the medium segment 122 but also in the first segment 121 or the second segment 123, the aerosol-generating article 12 can be used without preheating the aerosol-generating device 11. This not only improves user convenience but also ensures sufficient nicotine transfer even under non-heating (or low-temperature heating) conditions, providing a satisfying tobacco flavor.

[0091] Refer again Figure 1 (a) and Figure 1 In (b), the measuring unit 114 may include at least two capacitive sensors (e.g., a first capacitive sensor 1141 and a second capacitive sensor 1142). Each capacitive sensor may include two conductors spaced apart from each other, for example, the conductors may be spaced apart from each other by an elongated cavity 1112 therebetween.

[0092] In one embodiment, the measuring portion 114 may include a first capacitance sensor 1141 and a second capacitance sensor 1142, and the first capacitance sensor 1141 may be set at a first position of the elongated cavity 1112; the second capacitance sensor 1142 may be set at a second position of the elongated cavity 1112, and the first position and the second position may be positions spaced apart from each other along the length direction (for example, ±X direction) of the elongated cavity 1112.

[0093] For example, the first capacitance sensor 1141 may be disposed near the opening of the elongated cavity 1112, while the second capacitance sensor 1142 may be disposed further away from the inside of the elongated cavity 1112. Since the first capacitance sensor 1141 and the second capacitance sensor 1142 are disposed along the length of the elongated cavity 1112, the measuring portion 114 can measure the states of the respective regions of the aerosol generating article 12 that are spaced apart in the length direction. Figure 1 (a) and Figure 1 Although two capacitive sensors are shown in (b), three or more capacitive sensors may be provided depending on the type of aerosol-generating article 12 or the structure of the aerosol-generating device 11 .

[0094] In one embodiment, the first capacitance value measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 and the second capacitance value measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142 are transmitted to the control unit 112, and the control unit 112 can determine whether the aerosol generating article 12 is reused based on the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value.

[0095] For example, the aerosol generated from the vaporizer 113 may enter the first section 121 of the aerosol-generating article 12, move through the media section 122 to the second section 123. Figure 1 (a) and Figure 1 When the aerosol-generating article 12 moves in the +X direction (in the +X direction in (b)), the downstream portion of the aerosol-generating article 12 may be more wetted by the aerosol than the upstream portion. Since the dielectric constant may change when the wetness of the aerosol-generating article 12 changes, the first capacitance value measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 and the second capacitance value measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142 may change.

[0096] For example, before the aerosol-generating article 12 is used (at a first time point), there may be little or no difference between the first capacitance value measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 and the second capacitance value measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142. After the aerosol-generating article 12 is used (at a second time point), the aerosol typically wets the downstream portion of the aerosol-generating article 12 more, and thus the second capacitance value measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142 may be greater than the first capacitance value measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141. Alternatively, depending on the configuration of the aerosol-generating article 12, the first capacitance value measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 may be greater than the second capacitance value measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142. For example, when the dielectric segment 122 includes a cavity, both the inside and outside of the second wrapper 1252 of the dielectric segment 122 are wetted by the aerosol, and thus the dielectric segment 122 may be more wetted than the first segment 121. In either case, there is a difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value at the second time point, or there is a difference between the first capacitance change and the second capacitance change between the first time point and the second time point.

[0097] At this time, the control unit 112 may determine whether the aerosol-generating article 12 is reused based on the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value.

[0098] For example, if the absolute value of the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value is above a set range (|first capacitance - second capacitance| ≥ a, where a is a set value), the control unit 112 may determine that the aerosol-generating article 12 has been reused. Here, the set range may be defined as a set value that takes into account errors.

[0099] Alternatively, the control portion 112 may determine whether the aerosol-generating article 12 has been reused based on the difference between the first capacitance change amount and the second capacitance change amount.

[0100] For example, if the absolute value of the difference between the first capacitance change and the second capacitance change is above a set range (|first capacitance change - second capacitance change| ≥ b, where b is a set value), the control unit 112 may determine that the aerosol-generating article 12 has been reused. Here, the set range may be defined as a set value that takes into account errors.

[0101] In this case, the reliability of determining whether the aerosol-generating article 12 has been reused can be determined based on the absolute value of the difference. For example, the larger the absolute value of the difference, the more accurate the determination of whether the aerosol-generating article 12 has been reused. Therefore, the control unit 112 can specify that when the absolute value of the difference is large, the reuse determination result has a high reliability.

[0102] Figure 4is the capacitance change of the aerosol generating article 12 in the unused state and the reused state measured by the aerosol generating device 11 according to one embodiment. Here, Figure 4 (a) shows the change in capacitance (F) of an unused aerosol-generating article (unused cigarette rod) and a reused aerosol-generating article (reused cigarette rod) measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 over time (hours). Figure 4 (b) shows the change in capacitance of an unused aerosol-generating article (unused cigarette rod) and a reused aerosol-generating article (reused cigarette rod) measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142 over time.

[0103] Reference Figure 4 (a) and Figure 4 In (b), for an unused aerosol-generating article (an unused cigarette stick), there is not much difference between the first capacitance value measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 and the second capacitance value measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142. Thus, when the absolute value of the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value is less than a set range, the control unit 112 can determine that the aerosol-generating article is unused.

[0104] In contrast, for a reused aerosol-generating product (a reused cigarette stick), the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value increases. In this case, because the absolute value of the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value is above the set range, the control unit 112 can determine that the aerosol-generating product is a reused aerosol-generating product.

[0105] Furthermore, the magnitude of the second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142 before (first time point) and after (second time point) use of the aerosol-generating article (e.g., before / after smoking) is significantly greater than the first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141. In this case, if the absolute value of the difference between the first capacitance change and the second capacitance change is above a set range, the control unit 112 may determine that the aerosol-generating article is a reused aerosol-generating article. The capacitance of an unused aerosol-generating article (unused cigarette stick) may also be data that has already been measured and obtained at the first time point, depending on the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0106] Figure 5 is the capacitance change of the aerosol generating article 12 in an over-humidified state measured in the aerosol generating device 11 according to one embodiment. Here, Figure 5 (a) shows the change in capacitance (F) of an unused aerosol-generating article (unused cigarette rod) and an over-humidified aerosol-generating article (over-humidified cigarette rod) measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 over time (hours); Figure 5(b) shows the capacitance of an unused aerosol-generating article (unused cigarette rod) and an over-humidified aerosol-generating article (over-humidified cigarette rod) measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142 over time.

[0107] In one embodiment, when the change in the first capacitance measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 between the first time point and the second time point is above a set range, the control unit 112 may determine that the aerosol-generating article has been placed in an over-humidity condition. Similarly, when the change in the second capacitance measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142 between the first time point and the second time point is above a set range, the control unit 112 may determine that the aerosol-generating article has been placed in an over-humidity condition.

[0108] Reference Figure 5 (a) In a high humidity environment such as the rainy season, the aerosol generating product may be in an over-humidity state. Since the first capacitance change amount under such an over-humidity condition may be above the set range, the control unit 112 may determine it as an over-humidity condition. Similarly, referring to Figure 5 In (b), since the second capacitance change amount may be above the set range under the over-humidity condition, the control unit 112 may determine it as an over-humidity condition.

[0109] When only one capacitive sensor is configured (for example, Figure 5 (a) or Figure 5 (b)), it is impossible to determine whether the increase in capacitance is due to reuse or excessive humidity. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 11 is provided with a first capacitance sensor 1141 and a second capacitance sensor 1142. Compared to a case where only one capacitance sensor is provided, this can prevent errors in determining whether the aerosol generating article is reused due to excessive humidity. For example, under excessive humidity conditions, the change in the first capacitance of the first capacitance sensor 1141 and the change in the second capacitance of the second capacitance sensor 1142 will increase simultaneously. Here, because the capacitance values ​​of all capacitance sensors increase, the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value at the same time point is very small, so the control unit 112 does not recognize this as reuse.

[0110] In one embodiment, the control unit 112 may determine the type of the aerosol-generating article based on a change in first capacitance measured by the first capacitance sensor 1141 between a first time point (e.g., a time point when the aerosol-generating article is not used) and a second time point (e.g., a time point when the aerosol-generating article is used again). Similarly, the control unit 112 may determine the type of the aerosol-generating article based on a change in second capacitance measured by the second capacitance sensor 1142 between the first time point and the second time point.

[0111] For example, the capacitance change before and after use may differ depending on the type of aerosol-generating article 12. For example, aerosol may wet a media segment 122 including cavities more than a media segment 122 of a cellulose acetate filter type. Having obtained capacitance change data for different types of aerosol-generating articles 12, the control unit 112 can determine or verify the type of aerosol-generating article 12 being used by comparing the capacitance change measured before and after use of the aerosol-generating article 12 with the obtained capacitance change data.

[0112] The aerosol-generating device 11 and the aerosol-generating system 1 according to one embodiment can effectively determine whether an aerosol-generating article 12 that can be used under non-heating conditions has been reused, and can accurately determine whether the aerosol-generating article 12 has been reused even under excessively humid conditions. Furthermore, excessively humid conditions can be effectively determined, and the type of aerosol-generating article 12 inserted into the aerosol-generating device 11 can be effectively determined or verified.

[0113] The above embodiments are merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope of equivalence of the claims should be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that include: a housing forming an elongated cavity for accommodating the aerosol-generating article, a control unit housed in the housing and comprising at least one processor, and a measuring unit for measuring a usage status of the aerosol generating product; The measuring unit includes: a first sensor to measure a state of the aerosol-generating article at a first location of the elongated cavity, and a second sensor to measure a state of the aerosol-generating article at a second location of the elongated cavity; The first position and the second position are spaced apart lengthwise along the elongated cavity.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A vaporizer heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol and discharges the aerosol toward the aerosol-generating article.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The first sensor is configured as a first capacitive sensor, and the second sensor is configured as a second capacitive sensor.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: The control portion determines whether the aerosol-generating article is reused based on a difference between a first capacitance measured by the first capacitance sensor and a second capacitance measured by the second capacitance sensor.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, characterized in that When the absolute value of the difference is greater than or equal to a set range, the control unit determines that the aerosol-generating product has been reused.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: When a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor or a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point is above a set range, the control unit determines that the aerosol-generating article is placed in an over-humidity condition.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit determines that the aerosol-generating article has been reused when an absolute value of a difference between a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor and a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point is greater than a set range.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: The control portion determines or verifies the type of the aerosol-generating article based on a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor or a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point.

9. An aerosol generating system, characterized in that include: aerosol-generating articles; and The aerosol generating device comprises: a housing forming an elongated cavity for accommodating the aerosol generating article; a control unit accommodated in the housing and comprising at least one processor; a vaporizer for heating a liquid composition to generate an aerosol and discharging the aerosol toward the aerosol generating article; and a measuring unit for measuring the usage status of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol-generating article comprises: Paragraph 1; a media segment disposed downstream of the first segment and containing the media; and The second section is arranged downstream of the medium section.

10. An aerosol generating system according to claim 9, characterized in that The medium segment includes a pH-treated tobacco medium, and nicotine transferred from the medium segment is adsorbed on the first segment or the second segment.

11. An aerosol generating system according to claim 10, characterized in that The measuring unit includes: a first capacitive sensor disposed at a first position of the elongated cavity; and a second capacitive sensor, disposed at a second position of the elongated cavity; The first position and the second position are spaced apart lengthwise along the elongated cavity.

12. An aerosol generating system according to claim 11, characterized in that The control unit determines that the aerosol-generating article has been reused when an absolute value of a difference between a first capacitance measured by the first capacitance sensor and a second capacitance measured by the second capacitance sensor is greater than a set range.

13. The aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein: When a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor or a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point is above a set range, the control unit determines that the aerosol-generating article is placed in an over-humidity condition.

14. The aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein: The control portion determines or verifies the type of the aerosol-generating article based on a first capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor or a second capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor between a first time point and a second time point.

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