Aerosol-generating device capable of outputting sound

Abstract

The aerosol-generating device according to the present invention comprises: a housing that forms the appearance of the aerosol-generating device and has a sound emission hole; an accommodating part for accommodating a cigarette through a hole formed on one side of the case; a heater for heating the cigarette accommodated in the accommodating portion; the memory is used for storing sound data; a sound output unit for outputting the sound data; and a control section for transmitting the sound data stored in the memory to the sound output section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device capable of outputting sound to provide an auditory effect to a user. Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for methods that generate aerosols by heating an aerosol-generating material rather than burning the cigarette. Consequently, research into heated aerosol-generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] Recently, attempts to add various functions to aerosol generating devices in order to provide various effects to users have been increasing. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues Various embodiments may provide an aerosol generating device that may provide an auditory effect to a user.

[0005] The embodiments may increase user convenience and ensure safety by providing auditory effects to the user in various situations.

[0006] The technical problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand the undescribed technical problems from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0007] Technical Solution According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device may include: a shell, which forms the outer shape of the aerosol generating device and has a sound emission hole; a receiving portion, which receives a cigarette through a hole formed on one side of the shell; a heater, which heats the cigarette received in the receiving portion; a memory, which stores sound data; a sound output portion, which outputs the sound data; and a control portion, which transmits the sound data stored in the memory to the sound output portion.

[0008] Technical Effects The aerosol generating device according to the embodiment can provide an auditory effect to the user.

[0009] Furthermore, the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment can increase user convenience and ensure safety by providing the user with auditory effects in various situations.

[0010] Effects of the embodiment are not limited to the above-described effects, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand undescribed effects from this specification and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figures 1a to 1dAn example of a cigarette being inserted into an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment is schematically shown.

[0012] Figure 2a and Figure 2b A cigarette according to an embodiment is schematically shown.

[0013] Figure 3a is a schematic perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment in which the holes are open.

[0014] Figure 3b is a schematic perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment in which the aperture is closed.

[0015] Figures 4a to 4c FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a process of moving a cover of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an embodiment in which a speaker is provided in an aerosol generating device.

[0018] Figure 7a and Figure 7b is a perspective view schematically showing an embodiment in which a microphone is provided in an aerosol generating device.

[0019] Figure 8 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Regarding the terms in the embodiments, current and widely used general terms are selected as much as possible, taking into account the functions in the embodiments. However, the meaning of the terms may change according to the intentions of technicians in the field, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in some cases, the terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant. In this case, the meaning of the terms will be described in detail in the corresponding part of the specification. Therefore, the terms used in the embodiments should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the embodiments, rather than simply based on the names of the terms.

[0021] In addition, unless otherwise expressly stated, throughout the specification, when a section "includes" a certain component, it means that other components may also be included, and any other components are not excluded. In addition, the terms "unit," "module," etc. described in the specification mean a unit for processing at least one function or operation, and may be implemented by hardware or software, or a combination thereof.

[0022] As used herein, when an expression such as "at least any one" precedes a list of components, it modifies all of the components rather than each of the listed components. For example, the expression "at least any one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted to include: a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention can be implemented in various forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0024] Throughout the specification, "embodiment" is used to distinguish and facilitate description of the embodiments, and the various embodiments are not necessarily mutually exclusive. For example, components disclosed in one embodiment may be applied and / or implemented in another embodiment, and may be applied and / or implemented with changes without departing from the scope of the embodiments.

[0025] In addition, the terms used in the present disclosure are terms for describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the embodiments. In the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, singular expressions also include plural expressions.

[0026] The sizes or proportions of some components in the drawings may be exaggerated to some extent. In addition, components shown in one drawing may not be shown in other drawings.

[0027] In addition, throughout the specification, the "length direction" of a component may be a direction in which the component extends along one axial direction of the component, wherein the one axial direction of the component may mean a direction in which the component extends longer along the one axial direction than along another axial direction intersecting the one axial direction. For example, Figure 3a , the length direction of the accommodating portion 50 may represent the direction in which the cylindrical accommodating portion 50 extends ( Figure 3a The z direction in the figure), that is, the height direction of the cylinder perpendicular to the axis forming the diameter of the cylinder. Similarly, the length direction of the cigarette 2 can represent the direction in which the cylindrical cigarette 2 extends ( Figure 3a In addition, the length direction of the aerosol generating device 1 can be represented by Figure 3a In the z direction, the longest side of the aerosol generating device 1 extends along the z direction.

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] Figures 1a to 1d An example of a cigarette being inserted into an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment is schematically shown.

[0030] Reference Figure 1aThe aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 10, a control unit 20 and a heater 30. Figure 1b and Figure 1c , the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a vaporizer 40. Figure 1d The aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 10, a control unit 20, a coil 31, and a base 32. In addition, a cigarette 2 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0031] Figures 1a to 1d The aerosol generating device 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes components related to this embodiment. Therefore, it can be understood by those skilled in the art that, in addition to Figures 1a to 1d Other general components other than the components shown in FIG may be further included in the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0032] In addition, despite Figure 1b and Figure 1c The aerosol generating devices 1 are shown to each include a heater 30 , but the heater 30 may be omitted as desired.

[0033] Figure 1a The battery 10, the control unit 20 and the heater 30 are shown arranged in a line. Figure 1b The battery 10, the control unit 20, the vaporizer 40 and the heater 30 are shown arranged in a line. Figure 1c The vaporizer 40 and the heater 30 are shown to be arranged in parallel with each other. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to Figures 1a to 1c That is, the arrangement of the battery 10 , the control unit 20 , the heater 30 , and the vaporizer 40 may be changed according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0034] When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 activates the heater 30 and / or the vaporizer 40, thereby generating aerosol from the cigarette 2 and / or the vaporizer 40. The aerosol generated by the heater 30 and / or the vaporizer 40 passes through the cigarette 2 and is delivered to the user.

[0035] Even when the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1 , the aerosol-generating device 1 can heat the heater 30 as needed.

[0036] The battery 10 supplies power for operating the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 10 can supply power to heat the heater 30 or the vaporizer 40, and can also supply power required for the operation of the control unit 20. In addition, the battery 10 can supply power required for the operation of the display, sensors, motors, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0037] The control unit 20 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 20 controls the operation of the battery 10, the heater 30, the vaporizer 40, and other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. In addition, the control unit 20 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0038] The control unit 20 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing programs executable by the general-purpose microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor may also be implemented using other types of hardware.

[0039] The heater 30 may be heated by the power supplied by the battery 10. For example, when the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 30 may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Therefore, the heated heater 30 may increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material in the cigarette 2.

[0040] The heater 30 may include a resistive heater. For example, the heater 30 may include a conductive track and may be heated when current flows through the conductive track. However, the heater 30 is not limited to the above example, and any heater that can be heated to a desired temperature may be used without limitation. Here, the desired temperature may be a temperature preset in the aerosol generating device 1 or may be set by the user.

[0041] Furthermore, in another example, the Figure 1d 1 and 2. The induction heating type heater shown in FIG. 3 includes a coil 31 and a base 32. Therefore, redundant descriptions about the heater are omitted.

[0042] Specifically, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a conductive coil 31 for heating the cigarette 2 by using an induction heating method, and may include a base 32 that can be heated by an induction heating type heater. Figure 1d 3 , but the base 32 may be included in the cigarette 2 rather than the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0043] For example, the heater 30 may include a tube-type heating element, a plate-type heating element, a needle-type heating element, or a rod-type heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 according to the shape of the heating element.

[0044] In addition, a plurality of heaters 30 may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1. In this case, the plurality of heaters 30 may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette 2, or may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. In addition, some of the plurality of heaters 30 may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette 2, while other heaters may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. In addition, the heater 30 may be formed in various shapes without being limited to Figures 1a to 1c The shape shown in .

[0045] The vaporizer 40 can generate an aerosol by heating the liquid composition, and the generated aerosol can pass through the cigarette 2 and be delivered to the user. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 can move along the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow channel can be formed so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 can pass through the cigarette 2 and be delivered to the user.

[0046] For example, the vaporizer 40 may include a liquid storage portion, a liquid delivery member, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage portion, the liquid delivery member, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0047] The liquid storage portion can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material, wherein the tobacco-containing material includes volatile tobacco flavor components. The liquid storage portion can be detachably mounted to the vaporizer 40 or can be integrally formed with the vaporizer 40.

[0048] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit-flavored ingredients. The flavoring agent may include ingredients that can provide a variety of fragrances or flavors 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 to this. In addition, the liquid composition may include an aerosol former, such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0049] The liquid delivery member can deliver the liquid composition in the liquid storage portion to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery member can be a core such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, but is not limited thereto.

[0050] The heating element heats the liquid composition transported by the liquid delivery member. For example, the heating element may be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the heating element may be formed of a conductive wire (such as a nichrome wire) and may be wound around the liquid delivery member. The heating element is heated by supplying an electric current and transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. This generates an aerosol.

[0051] For example, the vaporizer 40 may be referred to as an atomizer cartridge or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0052] In addition to the battery 10, the control unit 20, the heater 30, and the vaporizer 40, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include common components. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display that outputs visual information and / or a motor that outputs tactile information. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may have a structure that allows external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when the cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0053] Although not in Figures 1a to 1d , the aerosol generating device 1 may form a system together with a separate stand. For example, the separate stand may be used to charge the battery 10 of the aerosol generating device 1. In addition, the heater 30 may be heated in a state where the separate stand is coupled to the aerosol generating device 1.

[0054] In addition, if Figure 1d As shown in FIG, the induction heating method using the coil 31 and the base 32 is described in detail.

[0055] Reference Figure 1d The aerosol generating device 1 may include a battery 10 , a control unit 20 , a coil 31 , a base 32 and a cavity 33 .

[0056] The cigarette 2 may be inserted into the cavity 33 of the aerosol generating device 1 and the coil 31 may be positioned around the cavity 33. Figure 1d The coil 31 is shown surrounding the cavity 33 , but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0057] The aerosol generating device 1 may generate aerosol by heating the cigarette 2 using an induction heating method. The induction heating method may refer to a method of generating heat from a magnetic material by applying an alternating magnetic field.

[0058] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy is lost in the material due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss. This energy loss can be dissipated from the magnetic material as heat. The greater the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field, the more heat can be dissipated from the magnetic material. The magnetic material that generates heat due to the external magnetic field can be the base.

[0059] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a base 32 that generates heat due to an external magnetic field. The aerosol generating device 1 may heat the cigarette 2 by applying an alternating magnetic field to the base 32.

[0060] The base 32 may include metal or carbon. The base 32 may include at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al).

[0061] Furthermore, the susceptor 32 may include at least one of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel alloys, metal thin films, ceramics such as zirconia, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co), and metalloids such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P).

[0062] The aerosol generating device 1 may comprise a cavity 33 for receiving the cigarette 2. The cavity 33 may comprise an opening which opens the cavity 33 outwardly for receiving the cigarette 2 in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0063] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a coil 31 that applies an alternating magnetic field to a base 32. The coil 31 may be wound along a side of a cavity 33. The coil 31 may be located near the base 32.

[0064] The coil 31 can receive power from the battery 10. As power is supplied to the coil 31, a magnetic field can be formed inside the coil 31. When alternating current is applied to the coil 31, the magnetic field formed inside the coil 31 can periodically change direction. When the base 32 is exposed to the alternating magnetic field formed by the coil 31, the base 32 generates heat, thereby heating the cigarette 2 contained in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0065] As the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by the coil 31 changes, the temperature of the base 32 of the heated cigarette 2 can change. The control unit 20 can control the power supplied to the coil 31 so that the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by the coil 31 can be adjusted, thereby controlling the temperature of the base 32.

[0066] For example, the coil 31 may be formed into a solenoid. The coil 31 may be a solenoid wound along the side of the cavity 33. The cigarette 2 may be accommodated in the inner space of the solenoid. The solenoid may include copper (Cu), but is not limited thereto.

[0067] In order to allow high current to flow by having low resistivity, the solenoid may include any one of silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni), or an alloy including at least one of silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni).

[0068] Figure 2a and Figure 2b A cigarette according to an embodiment is schematically shown.

[0069] Reference Figure 2a , the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 210 and a filter rod 220. Although Figure 2a The filter rod 220 is shown as a single segment, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. That is, the filter rod 220 may be composed of a plurality of segments.

[0070] For example, the filter rod 220 may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering the preset components included in the aerosol. In addition, the filter rod 220 may further include at least one segment for performing other functions as required.

[0071] The cigarettes 2 may be packaged in at least one packaging member 240. The packaging member 240 may include at least one perforation through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out. For example, the cigarettes 2 may be packaged in a single packaging member 240. In another example, the cigarettes 2 may be packaged in two or more overlapping packaging members 240. For example, the tobacco rod 210 may be packaged in a first packaging member 241, and the filter rod 220 may be packaged in packaging members 242, 243, and 244. Furthermore, the entire cigarette 2 may be packaged in a single packaging member 245. If the filter rod 220 is composed of multiple segments, the multiple segments may be packaged in packaging members 242, 243, and 244, respectively.

[0072] The tobacco rod 210 may include an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material may include at least one of, but is not limited to, glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod 210 may also include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, a flavoring liquid (such as menthol or a moisturizer) may be added to the tobacco rod 210 by spraying the flavoring liquid onto the tobacco rod 210.

[0073] The tobacco rod 210 can be made in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 210 can be made from a sheet or a bundle. In addition, the tobacco rod 210 can also be made from shredded tobacco made from finely cut tobacco sheets. In addition, the tobacco rod 210 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, but is not limited to this. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 210 can evenly disperse the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 210, thereby increasing the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod 210 and improving the taste of the tobacco. In addition, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 210 can serve as a base heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown in the accompanying drawings, in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding the outside of the tobacco rod 210, the tobacco rod 210 may also include another base.

[0074] The filter rod 220 may be a cellulose acetate filter. Furthermore, the shape of the filter rod 220 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 220 may be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod having a cavity therein. Furthermore, the filter rod 220 may be a grooved rod. When the filter rod 220 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be manufactured into a different shape.

[0075] The filter rod 220 can be made to produce a flavor. For example, a flavoring liquid can be sprayed onto the filter rod 220, or a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid can be inserted into the interior of the filter rod 220.

[0076] Furthermore, the filter rod 220 may include at least one capsule 230. Here, the capsule 230 may generate a fragrance or aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a thin film. The capsule 230 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0077] Reference Figure 2b The cigarette 3 may further include a front end plug 330. The front end plug 330 may be on one side of the tobacco rod 310, which is opposite to the filter rod 320. The front end plug 330 prevents the tobacco rod 310 from falling outward and prevents liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 310 into the aerosol generating device during smoking.

[0078] The filter rod 320 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 may correspond to Figure 2a The first segment of the filter rod 220 in the embodiment of the present invention and the second segment 322 may correspond to Figure 2a The third segment of the filter rod 220 in.

[0079] The diameter and overall length of the cigarette 3 may correspond to Figure 2a The diameter and the entire length of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the front end plug 330 may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 310 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be about 14 mm, but are not limited thereto.

[0080] The cigarettes 3 can be packaged in at least one packaging member 350. At least one perforation can be formed in the packaging member 350, through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. For example, the front end plug 330 can be packaged in a first packaging member 351, the tobacco rod 310 can be packaged in a second packaging member 352, the first segment 321 can be packaged in a third packaging member 353, and the second segment 322 can be packaged in a fourth packaging member 354. Furthermore, the entire cigarette 3 can be further packaged in a fifth packaging member 355.

[0081] In addition, at least one perforation 360 may be formed in the fifth packing member 355. For example, the perforation 360 may be formed in an area surrounding the tobacco rod 310, but is not limited thereto. Figure 1b and Figure 1c The heat generated by the heater 30 shown in FIG is transferred to the interior of the tobacco rod 310 .

[0082] Furthermore, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 340. Here, the capsule 340 may function to generate fragrance or aerosol. For example, the capsule 340 may have a structure in which a liquid containing fragrance is encapsulated by a thin film. The capsule 340 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0083] Figure 3a is a schematic perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment in which the holes are open.

[0084] Reference Figure 3a The aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment may include a housing 100 forming the outer shape of the aerosol generating device 1 and a receiving portion 50 receiving the cigarette 2 through a hole 110 formed on one side of the housing 100. In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a battery 10, a control portion 20, a heater 30, a memory 60 storing sound data, and a sound output portion 70.

[0085] The control portion 20 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In the aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment, the control portion 20 may transmit the sound data stored in the memory 60 to the sound output portion 70.

[0086] The aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment may include a housing portion 50 for housing the cigarette 2, and the housing portion 50 is exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 through the hole 110. The hole 110 has an internal space that can sufficiently house the cigarette 2 and may have a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the cigarette 2 in the longitudinal direction.

[0087] The heater 30 may surround at least a portion of the outer side of the accommodating portion 50. For example, the accommodating portion 50 may have a cylindrical shape similar to the outer shape of the cigarette 2.

[0088] In another example, the heater 30 may be an induction heating type heating member including a cylindrical base surrounding at least a portion of the accommodating portion 50 and a coil surrounding the base. Alternatively, the heater 30 may protrude from the accommodating portion 50 to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette 2.

[0089] The accommodating portion 50 may have a cylindrical shape, the inner space of which includes an accommodating space for accommodating at least a portion of the cigarette 2. The accommodating portion 50 may include a hole 110 formed on the outer side of the accommodating space to accommodate the cigarette 2 in the aerosol generating device 1. The hole 110 may be open to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. The cigarette 2 may be accommodated in the accommodating space from the outside of the accommodating portion 50 toward the inside of the accommodating portion 50 through the hole 110.

[0090] The aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment may include a memory 60 for storing sound data. The memory 60 may store small-capacity sound data related to alarms or short sounds in an uncompressed form, and may store relatively large-capacity sound data in a compressed form.

[0091] The aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment may include a sound output unit 70 that outputs the sound data stored in the memory 60. The sound output unit 70 may include an amplifier 72 ( Figure 5 ) and a loudspeaker 73 (shown in FIG. Figure 5 ). The speaker may be a micro speaker. Figure 5 As described, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a decoder 71 to output sound data having a large capacity.

[0092] The sound output portion 70 may be located at a position that can minimize the influence of heat generated by the heater 30. The sound output portion 70 may be disposed between the housing 100 of the aerosol generating device 1 and the heater 30.

[0093] In addition, when heating is performed by induction heating, the sound output portion 70 may be arranged at a distance from the coil 31 (see Figure 1d ) at a specific distance to reduce the influence of the magnetic field applied during heating. Alternatively, the coil 31 (see Figure 1d ) and the sound output part 70, a shielding tape is set to shield the influence of the magnetic field.

[0094] In addition, the housing 100 of the aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment may include a sound emission hole 101, which can emit the sound output from the sound output portion 70 to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. The sound emission hole 101 may be one or more small holes formed in the housing 100, and can allow the sound output from the sound output portion 70 to be well emitted to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0095] The sound emission hole 101 may be formed at a position corresponding to the position of the sound output portion 70. Specifically, the sound emission hole 101 may be formed at a position corresponding to the position of the speaker 73 ( Figure 5 Therefore, from the speaker 73 ( Figure 5 The sound output by the aerosol generating device 1 (shown in FIG) can be emitted to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 through the sound emission hole 101 of the aerosol generating device 1, thereby providing an auditory effect to the user.

[0096] The aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment may further include a cover 200 that opens and closes the hole 110. The cover 200 may open or close the hole 110 in various forms. When the cover 200 covers and closes the hole 110, at least a portion of the housing 100 may be covered. The cover 200 may be fixed to a side of the housing 100 or may be detachably coupled to a side of the housing 100. For example, the cover 200 may be a separate component that covers at least a portion of the aerosol generating device 1 and the hole 110, and may be detachably coupled to a side of the housing 100.

[0097] Reference Figure 3a In another example, the cover 200 may be movably coupled to one side of the housing 100 to open or close the hole 110 as the cover 200 moves.

[0098] Reference Figure 3a , the housing 100 may further include a guide 120 that guides movement of the cover 200. The cover 200 may be movably coupled to the guide 120 to slide along a path of the guide 120.

[0099] The combination of the cover 200 and the guide 120 can be implemented in various forms. For example, the guide 120 can be provided in the form of a concave groove on one side of the housing 100, and the cover 200 can have a protrusion that can slide when inserted into the groove of the guide 120. In another example, the guide 120 can be provided in the form of a protrusion protruding from one side of the housing 100, and the cover 200 can include a groove that inserts into the protrusion. However, this is not limited to this. In addition, the guide 120 and the housing 100 can be made integrally, or can be made separately and then combined with each other.

[0100] Although the drawings show that the guide 120 is linear, embodiments are not limited thereto. At least a portion of the guide 120 may be curved, and in this case, the cover 200 may move along the curved path of the guide 120.

[0101] The cover 200 may open the hole 110 at the first position P1 and close the hole 110 at the second position P2 (at Figure 3b ). When the cover 200 is in the first position P1, the hole 110 is open, allowing the cigarette 2 to be inserted therein. To use the aerosol-generating device 1, the user can move the cover 200 to the first position P1 to open the hole 110, thereby exposing the housing 50 to the outside of the aerosol-generating device 1. The user can insert the cigarette 2 into the housing 50 through the open hole 110.

[0102] More specifically, the cover 200 can be positioned between a first position P1 where the hole 110 of the receiving portion 50 is opened and a second position P2 where the hole 110 is closed. Figure 3bWhen the cover 200 is in the first position P1, the hole 110 can be fully opened, and when the cover 200 is in the second position P2 ( Figure 3b ), the hole 110 can be completely closed.

[0103] When a user pushes the cover 200 with a finger, the position of the cover 200 can be adjusted. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a separate drive device that can adjust the position of the cover 200 along the guide 120. The aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment may further include a retaining member (not shown) that retains the cover 200 in the first position P1 or the second position P2. The retaining member can maintain the hole 110 in an open state or a covered state by securing the cover 200 in the first position P1 or the second position P2. For example, the retaining member may be a permanent magnet that secures the position of the cover 200 through magnetic force, or may have a structure that secures the cover 200 through interlocking engagement, but is not limited thereto.

[0104] The size of the cover 200 may be larger than the cross section of the hole 110. The cover 200 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the hole 110. For example, when the hole 110 has a circular shape, at least a portion of the cover 200 may include an arc having a diameter larger than that of the hole 110.

[0105] In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment may further include an air inlet 300. The air inlet 300 may refer to a space through which air can flow between the container 50 and the cigarette 2 when the cigarette 2 is inserted into the container 50. The air inlet 300 may be connected to an airflow channel, which is the path through which air moves within the aerosol generating device 1. In other words, external air can flow into the aerosol generating device 1 through the air inlet 300, move into the container 50, pass through the interior of the cigarette 2, mix with the aerosol, and be delivered to the user.

[0106] Figure 3b is a schematic perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment in which the aperture is closed.

[0107] Reference Figure 3b When the aerosol generating device 1 is not in use, the user can close the hole 110 by moving the cover 200 to the second position P2. When the cover 200 is moved to the second position P2 and the hole 110 is closed, the container 50 is sealed and, accordingly, the container 50 is blocked from the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. When the cover 200 closes the hole 110, foreign matter can be prevented from flowing into the container 50.

[0108] Figures 4a to 4c FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a process of moving a cover of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0109] The aerosol generating device 1 according to another embodiment may further include an elastic member 400 for guiding the movement of the cover 200. The elastic member 400 may guide the movement of the cover 200 by elastic force. The elastic member 400 may be a spring. For example, the spring may be a coil spring or a torsion spring.

[0110] In another example, the elastic member 400 may be a compressible and elastic elastic material such as sponge or rubber.

[0111] In yet another example, the elastic member 400 may include a magnet providing elastic force by magnetic force, or a cylinder providing elastic force caused by compressed air.

[0112] One side 410 of the elastic member 400 may be rotatably connected to the cover 200, and the other side 420 may be rotatably connected to the housing 100. The one side 410 and the other side 420 of the elastic member 400 may be at least partially bent and rotatably connected to the cover 200 and the housing 100, respectively.

[0113] Reference Figures 4a to 4c , the elastic member 400 may be a torsion spring. The portion wound at least once in a circular manner may be located between one side 410 and the other side 420 of the elastic member 400.

[0114] The elastic member 400 may guide the movement of the cover 200 while the elastic member 400 is deformed due to the movement of the cover 200 on one side of the housing 100 and then restores the shape by elastic force.

[0115] Figure 4a 1 is a diagram showing one side of the housing 100 when the cover 200 is in the first position P1. When the cover 200 is in the first position P1, the hole 110 of the aerosol generating device 1 may be opened.

[0116] When the cover 200 is in the first position P1, the elastic member 400 is not subjected to external force, thereby maintaining a basic shape without being compressed or expanded. Therefore, when the cover 200 is in the first position P1, the elastic member 400 does not provide elastic force to the cover 200.

[0117] Furthermore, when the cover 200 is positioned closer to the first position P1 than to the second position P2, the elastic member 400 can bias the cover 200 toward the first position P1. Specifically, when the cover 200 moves from the first position P1 to the intermediate position Pm between the first position P1 and the second position P2, the elastic member 400 can be compressed. Furthermore, when the cover 200 moves from the intermediate position Pm to the first position P1, the elastic member 400 can be released. Therefore, when the cover 200 moves from the intermediate position Pm to the first position P1, the elastic member 400 can be released and bias the cover 200 to the first position P1.

[0118] By means of the elastic member 400, the user can open the hole 110 by moving the cover 200 with a small force. In addition, when no force is applied, the cover 200 can be moved to the middle position Pm ( Figure 4b ), the cover 200 is maintained at the first position P1, thereby preventing the cover 200 from being accidentally moved.

[0119] Figure 4b 1 is a diagram showing one surface of the housing 100 when the cover 200 is at the middle position Pm that is the midpoint between the first position P1 and the second position P2 .

[0120] When a user moves the cover 200 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 or from the second position P2 to the first position P1, the side 410 of the elastic member 400 connected to the housing 100 may move together with the cover 200 and thus the elastic member 400 may be compressed.

[0121] When the elastic member 400 is compressed by an external force applied to the cover 200, elastic energy for restoring a basic shape may be accumulated in the elastic member 400. The basic shape of the elastic member 400 may refer to a shape in which the elastic member 400 is not compressed or expanded.

[0122] Before passing the critical position, the elastic member 400 can be compressed by an external force and accumulate elastic energy. At the critical position, the external force applied by the user is equal to the elastic force of the elastic member 400, and the critical position is between the first position P1 and the second position P2. When the cover 200 does not move beyond the critical position, the cover 200 can return to the initial position by the elastic force of the elastic member 400. The critical position can be Figure 4b The middle position Pm is shown in FIG.

[0123] Figure 4c 2 is a diagram showing one side of the housing 100 when the cover 200 is in the second position P2. When the cover 200 is in the second position P2, the hole 110 of the aerosol generating device 1 can be closed.

[0124] When the cover 200 is in the second position P2, the elastic member 400 is not subjected to external force, and thus the elastic member 400 can maintain its basic shape without being compressed or expanded.

[0125] Furthermore, when the cover 200 is closer to the second position P2 than to the first position P1, the elastic member 400 can bias the cover 200 toward the second position P2. Specifically, when the cover 200 moves from the second position P2 to the intermediate position Pm between the second position P2 and the first position P1, the elastic member 400 can be compressed. Furthermore, when the cover 200 moves from the intermediate position Pm to the second position P2, the elastic member 400 can be released. Therefore, when the cover 200 moves from the intermediate position Pm to the second position P2, the elastic member 400 can be released, biasing the cover 200 to the second position P2.

[0126] By means of the elastic member 400, the user can close the hole 110 by moving the cover 200 with a small force. In addition, when no force is applied, the cover 200 can be moved to the middle position Pm ( Figure 4b When an external force is applied (shown in FIG), the cover 200 is maintained at the second position P2, thereby preventing the cover 200 from being accidentally opened.

[0127] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0128] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a control unit 20, a memory 60, and a sound output unit 70. The aerosol generating device 1 may further include a sound input unit 80. In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a sensing unit 90 for detecting the operation of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0129] The control unit 20 can control all operations of the memory 60, the sound output unit 70, the sound input unit 80, and the sensing unit 90. Based on the determination result of the control unit 20, the control unit 20 can perform operations such as sending a signal to the sound output unit 70, receiving a signal from the sound input unit 80, storing sound data in the memory 60, or outputting sound data stored in the memory 60. In addition, the control unit 20 can control the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 based on the detection result of the sensing unit 90.

[0130] In addition, although not Figure 5 Although not shown in FIG, the control unit 20 may control the operation of a communication unit that can communicate with other electronic devices, a user input unit that can receive information from a user, and the like. The communication unit may be a communication module for short-range communication, wireless communication, and the like. As described above, the control unit 20 may also control the operation of the heater and the battery.

[0131] The memory 60 may store at least one of various types of sound data. For example, the memory 60 may store the sound data in the form of an uncompressed wav file or a compressed mp3 file, but is not limited thereto.

[0132] The aerosol generating device 1 includes a sound output unit 70 that outputs the sound data stored in the memory 60 to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. The sound output unit 70 may include an amplifier 72 and a speaker 73. The amplifier 72 amplifies the signal of the sound data stored in the memory 60, and the speaker 73 outputs the amplified signal. Specifically, the memory 60 may store sound data related to alarms or short sounds of a relatively small volume in an uncompressed form, and this sound data may be output through the amplifier 72 and the speaker 73 without separate conversion. The aerosol generating device 1 according to this embodiment can output sound with a simple configuration.

[0133] In addition, the memory 60 can store a relatively large amount of sound data in a compressed form, and the sound output unit 70 can further include a decoder 71 that decodes and outputs the compressed sound data. Specifically, the digital sound data stored in the memory 60 in a compressed form can be converted into an analog signal by the decoder 71, and the converted signal can be amplified by the amplifier 72 and output to the speaker 73.

[0134] In addition, although not shown in the drawings, the aerosol generating device 1 can output not only sound data pre-stored in the memory 60 but also sound data not stored in the memory. For example, external sound data provided by a communication module such as a short-range communication or wireless communication module can be received and output to the sound output unit 70. As described above, the external sound data can be received by the control unit 20. The sound data received through communication or the like can be decoded by a decoder and played back in a streaming manner through the speaker 73.

[0135] In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment may further include a sound input unit 80 for receiving external sound. In other words, the aerosol generating device 1 may have a recording function. The sound input unit 80 may include a microphone 81 and an encoder 82 for encoding the sound input through the microphone 81. Specifically, the analog signal input from the microphone 81 may be converted into a digital signal by the encoder 82 and stored in the memory 60.

[0136] The user can select the sound data inputted through the encoder 82 and stored in the memory 60 and set it to be played back in a specific mode. The user can change the sound data for each mode pre-stored in the memory 60 to be the recorded sound.

[0137] Furthermore, in addition to the sound data set for each mode, other sound data may be stored in the memory 60. The user can select the sound data stored in the memory 60 to be played back in a desired mode, thereby changing the setting.

[0138] As described below, the “open mode” and “closed mode” as sound data regarding whether the hole 110 is open or closed, the “on mode” and “off mode” as sound data regarding power on / off of the aerosol generating device 1, the “cigarette accommodation mode” and “cigarette separation mode” as sound data regarding whether the cigarette 2 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 50 or separated from the accommodation portion 50, and the “preheating start mode” and “preheating completion mode” as sound data regarding whether the preheating of the heater 30 is started or completed can be changed and set to sound data different from the preset sound data.

[0139] In order to enable the user to perform the above settings, a keyboard, dome switch, touch pad, rotary dial, roller switch, etc. may be provided.

[0140] The control unit 20 may control the sound data stored in the memory 60 to be output through the sound output unit 70 based on the detection result of the sensing unit 90. The sensing unit 90 may include at least one of the first sensor, the second sensor, the third sensor, the fourth sensor, and the fifth sensor, but is not limited thereto.

[0141] The first sensor can detect whether the cover 200 of the aerosol generating device 1 opens or closes the hole 110. The first sensor can detect movement of the cover 200 and can also detect movement of the elastic member 400 that guides the movement of the cover 200. For example, changes in the installation space caused by compression and release of the elastic member 400 can be detected. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the first sensor can be any suitable sensor for detecting whether the hole 110 is open or closed.

[0142] When the cover 200 is closer to the first position P1 than the second position P2, the first sensor can detect that the hole 110 is open. In addition, when the cover 200 is closer to the second position P2 than the first position P1, the first sensor can detect that the hole 110 is closed.

[0143] The control unit 20 may determine whether the hole 110 is open or closed based on the result detected by the first sensor, select the sound data stored in the memory 60 according to the determination result, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70. In other words, the control unit 20 may select the sound data of the "open mode" or "closed mode" stored in the memory 60 according to the result detected by the first sensor, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0144] When the first sensor detects that the hole 110 is open, the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the “open mode” and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70. Conversely, when the first sensor detects that the hole 110 is closed, the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the “closed mode” and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0145] Furthermore, when the cover 200 opens or closes the hole 110, the first sensor can detect the amplitude, frequency, waveform, etc. of the sound waves generated by the elastic member 400. The control unit 20 can determine whether pre-stored sound wave data about the elastic member 400 matches the sound wave data detected by the first sensor, such as amplitude, frequency, waveform, etc., thereby detecting whether the hole 110 is open or closed. The first sensor can include a microphone 81 for identifying the sound waves generated by the elastic member 400.

[0146] The memory 60 may store sound wave data generated by the elastic member 400 when the cover 200 opens and closes the hole 110. The sound wave data is data on the amplitude, frequency, waveform, etc. of the sound wave generated by the elastic member 400 according to the movement of the cover 200, and may vary depending on the type of the elastic member 400, the form in which the elastic member 400 is connected to the cover 200 and the housing 100, and the degree to which the elastic member 400 is compressed or released.

[0147] The control unit 20 can determine whether the acoustic wave data of the elastic member 400 stored in the memory 60 is consistent with the data detected by the first sensor. The control unit 20 can detect whether the hole 110 is open or closed by determining whether the data are consistent with each other. When one or more of the amplitude, frequency, and waveform of the acoustic wave of the elastic member 400 detected by the first sensor is consistent with the acoustic wave data of the elastic member 400 stored in the memory 60, the control unit 20 can determine that they are consistent.

[0148] The second sensor can detect whether the power of the aerosol generating device 1 is on or off. The second sensor can detect the power on / off by detecting the voltage of the battery 10. However, the second sensor is not limited thereto, and can be any suitable sensor for detecting whether power is supplied from the battery 10 to the aerosol generating device 1.

[0149] Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may comprise an independent switch to turn the power on or off.The second sensor may detect the operation of the independent switch.

[0150] In addition, a single sensor can detect both the turning on / off of the power supply of the aerosol generating device 1 and the opening and closing of the aperture 110. For example, by generating an off signal when the aperture 110 is closed, the closing of the aperture 110 and the turning off of the power supply can be detected simultaneously. In addition, by generating an on signal when the aperture 110 is open, the opening of the aperture 110 and the turning on of the power supply can be detected simultaneously.

[0151] The control unit 20 can determine whether the power of the aerosol generating device 1 is turned on or off based on the signal detected by the second sensor, and can select sound data stored in the memory 60 according to the determination result, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70. In other words, the control unit 20 can select the sound data of the "on mode" or "off mode" stored in the memory 60 according to the result detected by the second sensor, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0152] When the second sensor detects that the power is on (ON), the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the "on mode" and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70. Conversely, when the second sensor detects that the power is off (OFF), the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the "off mode" and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0153] The third sensor may detect whether the cigarette 2 is housed in the housing 50 of the aerosol generating device 1. Since the cigarette 2 may be inserted through the hole 110 of the aerosol generating device 1 and housed in the housing 50, the third sensor may be any suitable sensor for detecting whether the cigarette 2 is inserted into the hole 110.

[0154] In addition, when the cigarette 2 passes through the hole 110 and goes deep into the receiving portion 50 to reach a preset position, the third sensor can detect that the cigarette 2 is received. Figure 3a The z-axis direction in the cigarette 2 is inserted, and the preset position may be a specific position on the z-axis. When the cigarette 2 is not inserted deep into the preset position, the cigarette 2 may be recognized as separated.

[0155] For example, the third sensor may include at least one of a Hall sensor that detects a change in a magnetic field generated by a metal material included in the cigarette 2, a mechanical sensor that detects a physical change occurring as the cigarette 2 is inserted, an infrared sensor that detects the approach of the cigarette 2, and an optical sensor that detects a pattern printed on the surface of the cigarette 2. However, the third sensor is not limited to the foregoing examples.

[0156] The control unit 20 can determine whether the cigarette 2 is contained in the housing portion 50 of the aerosol generating device 1 or separated from the housing portion 50 of the aerosol generating device 1 based on the signal detected by the third sensor, select the sound data stored in the memory 60 based on the determination result, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70. In other words, the control unit 20 can select the sound data of the "cigarette housing mode" or the "cigarette separation mode" stored in the memory 60 based on the detection result of the third sensor, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0157] When the third sensor detects that the cigarette 2 is contained in the container 50, the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the "cigarette containing mode" and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70. Conversely, when the third sensor detects that the cigarette 2 is separated from the container 50, the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the "cigarette separation mode" and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0158] The fourth sensor may be a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater 30 or the temperature of the heated cigarette 2. For example, the fourth sensor may use a thermocouple (TC), a resistance temperature detector (RTD), or a thermistor, but is not limited thereto.

[0159] The control unit 20 may determine whether preheating of the heater 30 to a preset temperature has started or has been completed based on the temperature detected by the fourth sensor, select sound data stored in the memory 60 according to the determination result, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70. In other words, the control unit 20 may select sound data for the "preheating start mode" or the "preheating completion mode" stored in the memory 60 according to the result detected by the fourth sensor, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0160] When the fourth sensor detects the start of preheating of the heater 30, the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the "preheating start mode" and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70. Conversely, when the fourth sensor detects the completion of preheating of the heater 30, the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the "preheating completion mode" and output the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0161] Furthermore, when the third sensor detects that the cigarette 2 is housed, the control unit 20 may control the heater 30 so that preheating starts.

[0162] In addition, when it is determined based on the result of detection by the fourth sensor that the heater is heating, and at the same time it is determined based on the result of detection by the third sensor that the cigarette 2 is separated from the accommodating portion 50, the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored in the memory 60 as the "cigarette separation mode during heating" and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0163] As described above, when it is determined that the cigarette 2 is detached during heating, the control unit 20 can ensure safety by stopping the heating of the heater 30 or powering off the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0164] The fifth sensor may be a puff sensor that detects a user's puff. The fifth sensor may detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 626 may detect the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow rate change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0165] The fifth sensor may count the number of puffs. The number of puffs may be counted after heating of the heater 30 starts, after preheating of the heater 30 is completed, or after the heater 30 reaches a preset temperature.

[0166] When it is determined that the preset number of puffs has been reached based on the number of puffs detected by the fifth sensor, the control unit 20 may select the sound data stored as the “smoking end mode” in the memory 60 and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70 .

[0167] It can determine whether the cigarette 2 is contained in the container 50 of the aerosol generating device 1 or separated from the container 50 of the aerosol generating device 1, select the sound data stored in the memory 60 according to the determination result, and transmit the selected sound data to the sound output unit 70.

[0168] In addition, the sound output unit 70 of the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a volume control unit. When a volume control unit is further included, the housing 100 of the aerosol generating device 1 may include a volume control lever, a button, etc. that allows the user to adjust the volume.

[0169] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an embodiment in which a speaker is provided in an aerosol generating device.

[0170] The speaker 73 may be located between the housing 100 and the heater 30 of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the speaker 73 may be located between the housing 100 and the heater 30 based on a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction (z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating device 1. Figure 6 , the speaker 73 may be located between the housing 100 and the heater 30 based on the x-axis direction.

[0171] The heater 30 may include a thermal insulation member to facilitate heat transfer from the cigarette 2 to the cigarette 2 without affecting other external components. The thermal insulation member may be located on the exterior of the heater 30, that is, on the side of the heater facing the housing 100 (opposite to the side facing the cigarette 2). The thermal insulation member may surround the heater 30 and may have a cylindrical shape extending in the longitudinal direction (z-axis direction). The speaker 73 may be located between the housing 100 and the thermal insulation member provided on the exterior of the heater 30.

[0172] Figure 6 The cross-sectional view shows an example of heating a cigarette 2 by induction heating. When a cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, power is supplied to the coil 31 to form a magnetic field, and the base 32 generates heat through the magnetic field, thereby heating the cigarette 2.

[0173] A first thermal insulator 34 may be provided outside the base 32. The first thermal insulator 34 may prevent heat generated in the base 32 from being transferred to the outside, while also allowing more heat to be transferred to the cigarette 2. The first thermal insulator 34 may provide the aforementioned thermal insulation effect and may also serve as a support member for supporting the coil 31.

[0174] In addition, a second thermal insulation member 35 may be further provided outside the coil 31. The second thermal insulation member 35 may be used to enhance the thermal insulation effect of the first thermal insulation member 34.

[0175] Furthermore, the second thermal insulator 35 may include a shielding tape. By providing the shielding tape, when the magnetic field generated by the coil 31 causes the base 32 to generate heat to heat the cigarette 2, other components are not affected by the magnetic field. By placing the shielding tape on the outside of the coil 31, that is, on the side facing the housing 100 (opposite to the side facing the cigarette 2), the magnetic field does not affect other components, such as the speaker 73. In another example, the shielding tape may also be provided between the first thermal insulator 34 and the second thermal insulator 35.

[0176] Reference Figure 6 , the speaker 73 may be provided in the space between the housing 100 and the second heat insulating member 35 of the aerosol generating device 1. By providing the speaker 73 in the space between the housing 100 and the second heat insulating member 35, the resonance effect of the speaker 73 can be increased even in the aerosol generating device 1 with a reduced size. However, the arrangement position of the speaker 73 is not limited to Figure 6 The location shown in .

[0177] Furthermore, the speaker 73 may be provided between the housing 100 and the heater 30 based on a direction intersecting the length direction of the aerosol generating device 1 , and may be located above the heater 30 based on the length direction of the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0178] Specifically, when the cigarette 2 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 50, the heater 30 may have a tobacco rod 210 ( Figure 2a That is, only the portion of the cigarette 2 including the aerosol generating material may be heated, and in this case, the length of the heater 30 (in the z-axis direction) may be less than Figure 6 Length shown in .

[0179] like Figure 1a As shown in , when the cigarette 2 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 50 of the aerosol generating device 1 with the heater 30 inserted into the cigarette 2, the heater 30 may be shorter than the overall length (z-axis direction) of the cigarette 2. Figure 1b and Figure 1c As shown in , even when the heater 30 surrounds the outside of the cigarette 2, the heater 30 can be shorter than the entire length (z-axis direction) of the cigarette 2. Figure 1d As shown in , the coil 31 and the base 32 may also be shorter than the overall length (z-axis direction) of the cigarette 2 .

[0180] That is, the member for heating the cigarette 2 may have a Figure 6 The length shown is the short length.

[0181] In this case, the speaker 73 may be located between the heater 30 and the housing 100, and at the same time, the speaker 73 may be located above the heater 30 (in the +z direction based on the z axis) in order to reduce the influence from the heater 30. In this case, the speaker 73 can reduce the influence from the heater 30 and increase the resonance effect.

[0182] That is, when the cigarette 2 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 50, based on the length direction (z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 30 may be located at a position close to the tobacco rod 210 ( Figure 2a ) and the speaker 73 may be located in parallel with the filter rod 220 ( Figure 2a ) side-by-side.

[0183] The speaker 73 may have a speaker frame 73a for fixing to the aerosol generating device 1. A portion of the speaker frame 73a may be embedded in a fixing member 73b and fixed by a fixing screw 73c. ​​The fixing member 73b may be attached to the housing 100 of the aerosol generating device 1 or may extend integrally from the housing 100. However, the member for fixing the speaker 73 is not limited to the above example.

[0184] Figure 7a and Figure 7b FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an embodiment in which a microphone 81 is provided in an aerosol generating device.

[0185] The aerosol generating device 1 may further include a microphone 81 for receiving external sounds. The microphone 81 may record various sounds and the user's voice.

[0186] A sound input hole for receiving external sound may be formed at the surface of the aerosol generating device 1. When external sound is input through the sound input hole, the external sound may be received by the microphone 81. A vibration plate of the microphone 81 may be located inside the aerosol generating device 1 to correspond to the position of the sound input hole.

[0187] Despite Figure 7a and Figure 7b Although briefly shown in FIG, the arrangement of the microphone 81 may include both an arrangement of the sound input hole and an arrangement of the microphone 81 for receiving the sound transmitted through the sound input hole.

[0188] To inhale cigarette 2, the user's mouth is typically placed on the upper side of aerosol-generating device 1 (in the +z direction based on the z-axis). Therefore, microphone 81 can be positioned close to the upper side of aerosol-generating device 1 to more clearly record the user's voice. Furthermore, when microphone 81 is positioned in this position, the amplitude, frequency, waveform, and other characteristics of the sound waves generated by elastic member 400 can be more clearly recognized as lid 200 opens or closes aperture 110.

[0189] Reference Figure 7a The microphone 81 may be arranged at a position on the upper surface of the aerosol generating device 1 where the cover 200 cannot move (in the +x direction based on the x-axis), thereby ensuring that the microphone 81 is not affected by the movement of the cover 200 to the greatest extent.

[0190] Reference Figure 7b , the microphone 81 may be arranged at a position on the upper surface of the aerosol generating device 1 where the cover 200 cannot move (in the -x direction based on the x-axis). Even when the cover 200 is in the first position P1 ( Figure 3a ), the cover 200 may also be in a position not covering the microphone 81.

[0191] In another example, the microphone 81 may be arranged on the side or back of the aerosol generating device 1. The arrangement position of the microphone 81 is not limited to the above-mentioned position.

[0192] Figure 8 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0193] The aerosol generating device 800 may include a control unit 810, a sensing unit 820, an output unit 830, a battery 840, a heater 850, a user input unit 860, a memory 870, and a communication unit 880. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 800 is not limited to Figure 8That is, according to the design of the aerosol generating device 800, those skilled in the art will understand that the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 800 can be omitted. Figure 8 Some of the constituent elements shown in the figure may be replaced or new constituent elements may be added.

[0194] The sensing unit 820 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 800 or the state around the aerosol generating device 800 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 810. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 810 can control the aerosol generating device 800 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater 850, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cigarette cartridge, etc.) is inserted, displaying a notification, etc.

[0195] The sensing part 820 may include at least one of a first sensor 821 , a second sensor 822 , a third sensor 823 , a fourth sensor 824 , and a fifth sensor 825 , but is not limited thereto.

[0196] In addition to the above-mentioned sensors 821 to 825, the sensing unit 820 may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a position sensor (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS)), a proximity sensor, and a red-green-blue (RGB) sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the function of each of the sensors can be intuitively inferred from the name of the sensor by a person of ordinary skill in the art, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0197] The output unit 830 can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 800 and provide this information to the user. The output unit 830 may include at least one of a display unit 832, a tactile unit 834, and a sound output unit 836, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 832 and the touch panel form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit 832 can also function as an input device in addition to being an output device.

[0198] The display unit 832 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 800. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 800 may include various information, such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 840 of the aerosol generating device 800, the preheating status of the heater 850, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 800 is restricted (e.g., sensing of an abnormal object), and the like. The display unit 832 can output the above information to the outside. The display unit 832 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display panel, or the like. Furthermore, the display unit 832 can be in the form of a light emitting diode (LED) light emitting device.

[0199] The haptic portion 834 may provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 800 in a tactile manner by converting electrical signals into mechanical stimulation or electrical stimulation. For example, the haptic portion 834 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0200] The sound output unit 836 may correspond to the above referenced figures 3 and 4. Figure 5 The sound output unit 836 may provide the user with auditory information about the aerosol generating device 800. For example, the sound output unit 836 may convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output it to the outside.

[0201] The battery 840 provides power for operating the aerosol generating device 800. The battery 840 can supply power to heat the heater 850. Furthermore, the battery 840 can supply power required for operating other components of the aerosol generating device 800 (e.g., the sensor 820, the output unit 830, the user input unit 860, the memory 870, and the communication unit 880). The battery 840 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 840 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0202] The heater 850 may receive power from the battery 840 to heat the aerosol generating material. Figure 8 , the aerosol generating device 800 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 840 and supplies it to the heater 850. In addition, when the aerosol generating device 800 generates aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device 800 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the direct current of the battery 840 into alternating current.

[0203] The control unit 810, the sensing unit 820, the output unit 830, the user input unit 860, the memory 870, and the communication unit 880 may each receive power from the battery 840 to perform their functions. Figure 8 Although not shown in FIG, the aerosol generating device 800 may further include a power conversion circuit (eg, a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit) that converts power from the battery 840 to supply it to the various components.

[0204] In an embodiment, heater 850 may be formed using any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials may include metals or metal alloys, including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nickel-chromium alloys. Furthermore, heater 850 may be implemented using, but not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with conductive traces disposed thereon, or a ceramic heating element.

[0205] In another embodiment, the heater 850 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 850 may include a base that generates heat by applying a magnetic field from a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0206] The user input unit 860 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 860 may include a keyboard, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact capacitance method, pressure-resistant film method, infrared sensing method, surface ultrasonic conduction method, overall tension measurement method, piezoelectric effect method, etc.), a rotary knob, a roller switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, although not in Figure 8 Although shown in FIG, the aerosol generating device 800 may further include a connection interface (such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface) and may be connected to other external devices through the connection interface (such as a USB interface) to send and receive information or charge the battery 840.

[0207] The memory 870 may correspond to the memory 870 described above with reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. Figure 5 Memory 870 can store various types of sound data. Memory 870 is hardware that stores various types of data processed in aerosol generating device 800. It can store data processed by control unit 810 and data to be processed. Memory 870 can include at least one type of storage medium selected from the group consisting of flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card micro memory, card-type memory (e.g., secure digital (SD) or extreme digital (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 memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 870 can store the operating time of aerosol generating device 800, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, data regarding the user's smoking patterns, and the like.

[0208] The communication unit 880 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 880 may include a short-range communication unit 882 and a wireless communication unit 884.

[0209] The short-range communication unit 882 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near-field wireless communication unit, a wireless LAN (WLAN) (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0210] The wireless communication unit 884 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 884 may also identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 800 within the communication network by using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0211] The control unit 810 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 800. In an embodiment, the control unit 810 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing programs executable by the microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0212] The control unit 810 can control the temperature of the heater 850 by controlling the power supply from the battery 840 to the heater 850. For example, the control unit 810 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 840 and the heater 850. In another example, the direct heating circuit can also control the power supply to the heater 850 according to a control command from the control unit 810.

[0213] The control unit 810 may analyze the result sensed by the sensing unit 820 and control subsequent processing to be performed. For example, the control unit 810 may control the power supplied to the heater 850 based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 820 to start or end the operation of the heater 850. As another example, the control unit 810 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 850 and the time for supplying power based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 820 so that the heater 850 can be heated to a preset temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0214] The control unit 810 may control the output unit 830 based on the result detected by the sensing unit 820. According to the detection result, the control unit 810 may notify the user of information through at least one of the display unit 832, the tactile unit 834, and the sound output unit 836.

[0215] Embodiments may also be implemented in the form of a computer-readable recording medium that includes instructions executable by a computer, such as a program module executable by a computer. A computer-readable recording medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, as well as removable and non-removable media. In addition, a computer-readable recording medium may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes all volatile and non-volatile media, as well as removable and non-removable media, implemented by any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes other data in a modulated data signal or other transmission mechanism, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and any other information transfer media.

[0216] The description of the above embodiments is merely an example, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and equivalent embodiments may be made based on the above embodiments. Therefore, the actual scope of protection of the present invention should be defined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope of equivalence with the contents recited in the claims should be interpreted as being included in the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device comprising: a housing, forming the outer shape of the aerosol generating device and having a sound emission hole; a receiving portion for receiving a cigarette through a hole formed on one side of the housing; a heater for heating the cigarettes contained in the containing portion; a memory for storing sound data; a sound output unit for outputting the sound data; as well as The control unit transmits the audio data stored in the memory to the audio output unit.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a cover covering at least a portion of the housing and opening or closing the hole; as well as a first sensor for detecting whether the hole is opened or closed by the cover, The control unit selects the sound data of the open mode or the closed mode stored in the memory according to the result detected by the first sensor, and transmits the selected sound data to the sound output unit.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein: The cover is movably coupled to one side of the housing, opens the hole at a first position, and closes the hole at a second position opposite to the first position.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: The first sensor detects that the hole is opened when the cover is closer to the first position than the second position, and detects that the hole is closed when the cover is closer to the second position than the first position.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, further comprising an elastic member, one side of the elastic member being rotatably connected to the cover and the other side of the elastic member being rotatably connected to the housing, and the elastic member providing elastic force to the cover.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein: When the cover opens or closes the hole, the first sensor detects at least one of the amplitude, frequency, and waveform of the sound wave generated by the elastic member, and The control portion determines whether the hole is open or closed by determining whether the at least one detected by the first sensor is consistent with at least one of the amplitude, frequency, and waveform of the elastic member stored in advance.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The sound output unit includes an amplifier and a speaker. The amplifier amplifies the signal of the sound data, and the speaker outputs the signal amplified by the amplifier.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein: The sound output section further includes a decoder connected to the memory and decoding the sound data stored in the memory.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein: The speaker is arranged between the housing and the heater based on a direction intersecting a longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device. 10 . The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising a sound input unit, the sound input unit comprising a microphone and an encoder, the microphone receiving external sound, the encoder configured to encode the sound input through the microphone.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising: Communication module, The control unit receives the sound signal through the communication module and transmits the sound signal to the sound output unit.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a second sensor for detecting whether the power supply of the aerosol generating device is on or off, The control unit selects the sound data of the on mode or the off mode stored in the memory according to the result detected by the second sensor, and transmits the selected sound data to the sound output unit.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: A third sensor detects whether the cigarette is contained. The control unit selects the sound data of the cigarette storage mode or the cigarette separation mode stored in the memory according to the result detected by the third sensor, and transmits the selected sound data to the sound output unit.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a fourth sensor, detecting the temperature of the heater, The control unit selects the sound data of the preheating start mode or the preheating completion mode stored in the memory according to the result detected by the fourth sensor, and transmits the selected sound data to the sound output unit.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a third sensor, detecting whether the cigarette is contained; as well as a fourth sensor, detecting the temperature of the heater, When the fourth sensor detects that the heater is heating and the third sensor detects that the cigarette is separated from the accommodating portion, the control unit transmits the sound data of the cigarette separation mode during heating stored in the memory to the sound output unit.

16. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: The fifth sensor counts the number of puffs taken by the user. When the number of puffs counted by the fifth sensor is determined to have reached a preset number of puffs, the control unit transmits the sound data stored in the memory as the puff end pattern to the sound output unit.

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