Control method and aerosol-generating device for performing method

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment includes: a detection circuit including a first electrode circuit and a second electrode circuit, the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit being disposed inside an accommodation space into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted, and being not electrically connected to each other; a heater that heats the aerosol-generating article; a control unit; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the control unit, the control unit performing an operation of determining a target type of the aerosol-generating article on the basis of an electrical characteristic of the detection circuit, the electrical characteristic of the detection circuit appears when the aerosol generating product is inserted into the accommodating space, so that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected through the aerosol generating product; and controlling power supplied to the heater based on the target type of aerosol-generating article.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following embodiments relate to techniques for generating aerosols, and in particular, to techniques for providing an appropriate temperature profile depending on the type of aerosol-generating article. Background Art

[0002] Currently, the demand for electronic cigarette devices is increasing. As the demand for electronic cigarette devices continues to increase, the development of functions related to electronic cigarette devices continues. In particular, the development of functions related to the type and characteristics of electronic cigarette devices continues.

[0003] To provide users with an optimal smoking sensation and taste, appropriate heating curves can be provided for different types of aerosol-generating articles. The aerosol-generating device can generate aerosol based on the type of aerosol-generating article or heating method input by the user. Even without user input, various methods can be provided to identify aerosol-generating articles. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical problems to be solved The present disclosure is directed to solving the above-referenced problems and others.

[0005] One embodiment may provide a method and apparatus for determining the type of an aerosol-generating article.

[0006] An embodiment may provide a method and apparatus for controlling power supplied to a heater based on the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0007] Technical solutions to the problem According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes: a detection circuit, which includes a first electrode circuit and a second electrode circuit, and the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are arranged on the inner side of a storage space for inserting an aerosol generating article and are not electrically connected to each other; a heater, which heats the aerosol generating article; a control unit; and a power supply unit, which supplies power to the control unit, and the control unit performs the following actions: determining the target type of the aerosol generating article based on the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit, wherein the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit appear when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the storage space so that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected through the aerosol generating article; and controlling the power supplied to the heater based on the target type of the aerosol generating article.

[0008] According to one embodiment, a control method of an aerosol generating device is performed by an aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating device includes: a detection circuit, which includes a first electrode circuit and a second electrode circuit, the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are arranged on the inner side of a storage space for inserting an aerosol generating product and are not electrically connected to each other; a heater, which heats the aerosol generating product; a control unit; and a power supply unit, which supplies power to the control unit, and the control method includes the following actions: determining a target type of the aerosol generating product based on the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit, wherein the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit appear when the aerosol generating product is inserted into the storage space so that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected through the aerosol generating product; and controlling the power supplied to the heater based on the target type of the aerosol generating product.

[0009] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes: a detection circuit, which includes a first electrode circuit and a second electrode circuit, and the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are arranged on the inner side of a storage space for inserting an aerosol generating article and are not electrically connected to each other; a heater, which heats the aerosol generating article; a control unit; and a power supply unit, which supplies power to the control unit, and as the aerosol generating article is inserted into the storage space so that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected through the aerosol generating article, the control unit receives power from the power supply unit so that the power of the aerosol generating device is turned on.

[0010] Effects of the Invention According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, an appropriate heating profile may be selected according to the type of aerosol-generating article. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figures 1a to 1d are figures illustrating examples of inserting an aerosol-generating article into an aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments.

[0012] Figure 2 and Figure 3 are drawings of examples of aerosol-generating articles according to various embodiments.

[0013] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments.

[0014] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments.

[0015] Figure 6FIG2 is a diagram illustrating a conductive material of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 FIG2 is a diagram illustrating a detection circuit of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 1 is a diagram illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The description of the specific structures or functions of the embodiments is for illustrative purposes only, and the embodiments may be implemented in various forms. The actual implementation is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and the scope of this specification includes all modifications, equivalents, and even substitutes within the technical concepts described by the embodiments.

[0019] The terms "first" or "second" may be used to describe different components, but are only used to distinguish one component from other components. For example, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may also be named the first component.

[0020] When it is stated that one component is “connected to” another component, it may be directly connected to or in contact with the other component, or there may be other components present between them.

[0021] Unless otherwise indicated in the context, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. In this specification, the terms "include / comprise" and / or "comprising / including" are used to express the presence of stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the possibility of the presence or additional presence of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or their combinations.

[0022] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the ordinary meanings understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art to which they pertain. Commonly used terms, as defined in dictionaries, should be understood as having the meanings inherent in the relevant technical context and should not be interpreted as idealizing or formalizing the meanings of terms not explicitly defined in this specification.

[0023] In the following, the embodiments are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the process of describing the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same components are given the same reference numerals and repeated description is omitted.

[0024] Figures 1a to 1d are figures illustrating examples of inserting an aerosol-generating article into an aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments.

[0025] Reference Figure 1a The aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12 and a heater 13. Figure 1b and Figure 1c , the aerosol generating device 1 further comprises a vaporizer 14. Figure 1d The aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11 , a control unit 12 , a coil 13 a , and a susceptor 13 b . Furthermore, a cigarette 2 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0026] Figures 1a to 1d The aerosol generating device 1 (or Figure 4 The aerosol generating device 400 shown in FIG. 4 shows the components related to this embodiment. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that, in addition to Figures 1a to 1d (or Figure 4 ), the aerosol generating device 1 (or aerosol generating device 400 ) may further include other general components.

[0027] In addition, despite Figure 1b and Figure 1c The aerosol generating device 1 in the embodiment includes a heater 13, but the heater 13 may be omitted when necessary. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 that does not include a heater 13 may generate aerosol by a vaporizer 14.

[0028] Figure 1a The battery 11, the control unit 12 and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Figure 1b The battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Figure 1c The vaporizer 14 is arranged in parallel with the heater 13. 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 11 , the control unit 12 , the heater 13 , and the vaporizer 14 may be changed according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0029] When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 may operate the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 to generate aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 may reach the user via the cigarette 2.

[0030] Even when the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 , the aerosol generating device 1 can heat the heater 13 as needed.

[0031] The battery 11 can supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to heat the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14, and can supply power required for operating the control unit 12. In addition, the battery 11 can supply power required to operate a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0032] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, in addition to the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, the control unit 12 can also control the corresponding operations of other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. In addition, the control unit 12 can verify the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0033] The control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as a plurality of logic gate arrays or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory, wherein the memory stores programs executable by the microprocessor. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the at least one processor may be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0034] The heater 13 can be heated by the power supplied by the battery 11. For example, when the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 13 can be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Therefore, the heated heater 13 can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the cigarette 2.

[0035] The heater 13 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 13 may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater 13 may be heated when current flows through the electrically conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the aforementioned example, and any example of heating the heater 13 to a desired temperature can be applied without limitation. Here, the desired temperature may be pre-set in the aerosol generating device 1 or may be set by the user.

[0036] As another example, Figure 1d As shown, the heater 13 may be an induction heating heater including a coil 13a and a susceptor 13b.

[0037] Specifically, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an electrically conductive coil 13a for heating the cigarette 2 by induction heating, and may include a susceptor 13b that can be heated by the induction heater. Figure 1d Not shown in the figures, the susceptor 13b may be included in the cigarette 2 instead of the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0038] For example, the heater 13 may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle heating element, or a rod heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0039] Furthermore, the heater 13 may be provided as a plurality of heaters in the aerosol generating device 1. In this case, the plurality of heaters 13 may be provided so as to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette 2, or may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Furthermore, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be provided so as to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette 2, while the remaining heaters may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. However, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to Figures 1a to 1d The shape shown is not limited to the shape shown, but can be set to various shapes.

[0040] The vaporizer 14 can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can pass through the cigarette 2 to reach the user. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can travel along the airflow path of the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow path can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can pass through the cigarette 2 to reach the user.

[0041] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include a liquid reservoir, a liquid delivery device, and a heating element, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid reservoir, the liquid delivery device, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as separate modules.

[0042] The liquid reservoir can store a liquid composition. The liquid composition can be, for example, a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavoring components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. The liquid reservoir can be manufactured to be detachable from the vaporizer 14, or the liquid reservoir can be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0043] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance may include, for example, menthol, mint, spearmint oil, various fruit flavor components, etc. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. The flavoring may include ingredients that provide the user with various tastes or smells. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, or vitamin E, however, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In addition, the liquid composition may further include an aerosol former, such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0044] The liquid transfer device can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid storage portion to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer device can be a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0045] The heating element can be an element for heating the liquid composition transmitted by the liquid transfer device. The heating element can be, for example, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In addition, the heating element can include a conductive wire such as a nickel-chromium wire and can be arranged in a structure surrounding the liquid transfer device. The heating element can be heated when an electric current is supplied, and can transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0046] For example, the vaporizer 14 may also be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0047] Meanwhile, in addition to the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, 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 (such as a puff sensor, a temperature sensor, and a cigarette insertion detection sensor). Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may be manufactured to have a structure that allows external air to be introduced into the structure or internal gas to flow out of the structure when a cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0048] Despite Figures 1a to 1d Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1 can constitute a system together with a separate bracket. For example, the bracket can be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the bracket can heat the heater 13 when combined with the aerosol generating device 1.

[0049] Reference Figure 1d The aerosol generating device 1 may include a battery 11, a control unit 12, a coil 13a, a receptor 13b and a cavity 13c.

[0050] The cigarette 2 may be inserted into the cavity 13c of the aerosol generating device 1 , and the coil 13a may be positioned around the cavity 13c. Figure 1d The coil 13a shown in FIG. 1 is arranged around the cavity 13c, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0051] The aerosol generating device 1 can generate aerosol by heating the cigarette 2 through induction heating, which is a method of generating heat from a magnetic material by applying an alternating magnetic field.

[0052] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, it may experience energy loss due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss. This lost energy is released from the magnetic material as heat. The greater the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field, the greater the heat released from the magnetic material. The magnetic material that generates heat due to the external magnetic field can be a susceptor.

[0053] The aerosol generating device 1 may be equipped with a susceptor 13b that generates heat through an external magnetic field. The aerosol generating device 1 may heat the cigarette 2 by applying an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor 13b.

[0054] The susceptor 13b may include metal or carbon. The susceptor 13b may include at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al).

[0055] In addition, the susceptor 13b may include at least one of ceramics such as graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel alloy, metal film, and zirconia; transition metals such as nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co); or metalloids such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P).

[0056] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a cavity 13c for accommodating the cigarette 2. The cavity 13c may include an opening open from the outside of the cavity 13c to accommodate the cigarette 2 in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0057] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a coil 13a for applying an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor 13b. The coil 13a may be wound along a side of the cavity 13c. The coil 13a may be arranged near the susceptor 13b.

[0058] Coil 13a can receive power from battery 10. When coil 13a receives power, a magnetic field is generated within coil 13a. When alternating current is applied to coil 13a, the magnetic field generated within coil 13a periodically changes direction. When susceptor 13b is exposed to the alternating magnetic field generated by coil 13a, the susceptor 13b generates heat, thereby heating the cigarette 2 contained in the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0059] The temperature of the cigarette 2 heated by the susceptor 13b varies with the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field generated by the coil 13a. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the coil 13a to adjust the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field generated by the coil 13a, thereby controlling the temperature of the susceptor 13b.

[0060] For example, the coil 13a may be implemented as a solenoid. The coil 13a may be a solenoid wound along the side of the cavity 13c. The interior space of the solenoid may accommodate the cigarette 2. The solenoid may include copper (Cu), but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0061] In order to enable large current flow with low resistance, 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 them.

[0062] The cigarette 2 can be similar to a conventional combustion-type cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 can be divided into a first portion including an aerosol-generating substance and a second portion including a filter, etc. Alternatively, the second portion of the cigarette 2 can also include an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance provided in the form of particles or capsules can be inserted into the second portion.

[0063] The first part may be completely inserted into the interior of the aerosol-generating device 1, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, the first part may be only partially inserted into the interior of the aerosol-generating device 1, or the first part may be completely inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1 and the second part may be partially inserted into the interior of the aerosol-generating device 1. The user may inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in the user's mouth. In this case, aerosol may be generated when external air passes through the first part, and the generated aerosol may pass through the second part and enter the user's mouth.

[0064] For example, external air can be introduced through at least one air path formed in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the opening or closing and / or the size of the air path formed in the aerosol generating device 1 can be adjusted by the user. This allows the user to adjust the amount of atomization, the puffing sensation, etc. In another example, external air can be introduced into the interior of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0065] Below, we will refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Let's explain the example of cigarette 2.

[0066] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The following is an example of a cigarette.

[0067] Reference Figure 2 The cigarette 2 may include a cigarette rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Figures 1a to 1d The first part described may include the cigarette rod 21; the second part may include the filter rod 22.

[0068] Although the filter rod 22 Figure 2 Although shown as having a single segment, the filter stick example is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter stick 22 may include multiple segments. For example, the filter stick 22 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering a component contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, as desired, the filter stick 22 may further include at least one segment that performs another function.

[0069] The cigarette 2 may have a diameter in the range of 5 mm to 9 mm and a length of approximately 48 mm, although embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the cigarette rod 21 may be approximately 12 mm long, the first section of the filter plug 22 may be approximately 10 mm long, the second section of the filter plug 22 may be approximately 14 mm long, and the third section of the filter plug 22 may be approximately 12 mm long, although embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0070] The cigarettes 2 can be packaged in at least one packaging member 24. The packaging member 24 can have at least one hole through which external air is introduced or internal gas is discharged to the outside. For example, a cigarette 2 can be packaged in one packaging member 24. As another example, two or more packaging members 24 can be used to package the cigarettes 2 in an overlapping manner. For example, the cigarette rod 21 can be packaged in a first packaging member 241, and the filter plug 22 can be packaged in packaging members 242, 243, and 244. In addition, the entire cigarette 2 can be packaged again in a fifth packaging member 245. If the filter plug 22 includes multiple segments, the multiple segments can be packaged in packaging members 242, 243, and 244 respectively.

[0071] The first package 241 and the second package 242 can be formed of conventional filter paper. For example, the first package 241 and the second package 242 can be porous packaging paper or non-porous packaging paper. In addition, the first package 241 and the second package 242 can be formed of greaseproof paper and / or aluminum laminated packaging material.

[0072] The third packaging member 243 may be formed of hard packaging paper. For example, the basis weight of the third packaging member 243 may be 88 grams per square meter (g / m 2 ) to 96g / m 2 In the range of 90g / m 2 Up to 94g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the third package member 243 may be in the range of 120 micrometers (µm) to 130 micrometers (µm), and desirably may be 125 µm.

[0073] The fourth packaging member 244 can be formed of a hard packaging paper that is oil-proof. For example, the basis weight of the fourth packaging member 244 can be 88 g / m 2 Up to 96g / m 2 In the range of 90g / m 2 Up to 94g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the fourth package member 244 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and desirably may be 125 μm.

[0074] The fifth package 245 may be formed of sterile paper (e.g., MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) may refer to specially prepared paper such that it has increased tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth package 245 may be 57 g / m 2 Up to 63g / m 2 and is expected to be about 60 g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the fifth package member 245 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and desirably may be 67 μm.

[0075] A predetermined material can be added to the fifth packaging member 245. This material can be silicon, for example, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has the following properties: heat resistance with minimal temperature fluctuations; oxidation resistance; resistance to various drugs; water resistance; and electrical insulation. However, silicon is not required; any material with the aforementioned properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth packaging member 245 without limitation.

[0076] The fifth packing member 245 can prevent the cigarette 2 from burning. For example, when the cigarette rod 21 is heated by the heater 13, the cigarette 2 may burn. For example, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any material included in the cigarette rod 21, the cigarette 2 may burn. Even in this case, because the fifth packing member 245 is made of non-combustible material, the cigarette 2 can still be prevented from burning.

[0077] Furthermore, the fifth packaging member 245 prevents contamination of the retaining member by substances generated within the cigarette 2. For example, liquid substances may be generated within the cigarette 2 when the user draws on it. For example, when the aerosol generated within the cigarette 2 is cooled by the outside air, such liquid substances (e.g., water) may be generated. Therefore, packaging the cigarette 2 within the fifth packaging member 245 prevents the liquid substances generated within the cigarette 2 from leaking out of the cigarette 2.

[0078] The cigarette rod 21 may include an aerosol-generating substance. The aerosol-generating substance may include, for example, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, although embodiments are not limited thereto. The cigarette rod 21 may also include other additives, such as flavoring agents, wetting agents, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, the cigarette rod 21 may include a flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a moisturizer, which may be added by spraying the flavoring liquid onto the cigarette rod 21.

[0079] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various forms. The tobacco rod 21 can be made of a sheet, a strand, or shredded tobacco cut from tobacco sheets. Furthermore, the tobacco rod 21 can be wrapped with a heat-conductive material. For example, a non-limiting example of a heat-conductive material is a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the heat-conductive material wrapping the tobacco rod 21 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 to improve the thermal conductivity to be applied to the tobacco rod 21, thereby improving the taste of the tobacco. In addition, the heat-conductive material wrapping the tobacco rod 21 can be used as a receptor heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown, the tobacco rod 21 can also include another receptor in addition to the heat-conductive material wrapping the outside thereof.

[0080] The filter rod 22 can be an acetate filter rod. However, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 can be a cylindrical rod, or a tubular rod including a hollow portion. The filter rod 22 can also be a concave rod. For example, when the filter rod 22 includes multiple segments, at least one of the segments can be manufactured into a different shape.

[0081] The first section of the filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter rod. For example, the first section can be a tubular structure including a hollow portion. When the heater 13 is inserted, the first section prevents the internal material of the cigarette rod 21 from being pushed back and produces an aerosol cooling effect. The diameter of the hollow portion included in the first section can be preferably within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0082] The desired length of the first segment may be appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, however, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Desirably, the length of the first segment may be approximately 10 mm, however, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0083] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacturing process of the first segment. In addition, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting a structural member (eg, a film or tube) of the same or different material into the interior (eg, the hollow portion).

[0084] The second section of the filter rod 22 can cool the aerosol generated when the heating portion heats the cigarette rod 21. Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature.

[0085] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways according to the shape of the cigarette 2. For example, the desired length of the second segment can be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Desirably, the length of the second segment can be approximately 14 mm, however, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0086] The second segment can be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, the flavoring liquid can be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment can be made by weaving together separate fibers to which the flavoring liquid is applied and polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed from a rolled polymer sheet.

[0087] For example, the polymer may be prepared using a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0088] Since the second section is formed by woven polymer fibers or curled polymer sheets, the second section may include a single channel or multiple channels extending longitudinally. Here, the channel used in this article may refer to a path through which gas (eg, air or aerosol) passes.

[0089] For example, the second segment formed of the rolled polymer sheet can be formed of a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example, a material having a thickness between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. In addition, the total surface area of ​​the second segment can be about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000mm 2 In addition, the aerosol-cooling element can be made of a material with a specific surface area of ​​about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100mm 2 / mg of material is formed.

[0090] The second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavoring component. The volatile flavoring component may be menthol, but embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide at least 1.5 milligrams (mg) of menthol to the second segment.

[0091] The third section of the filter rod 22 can be an acetate filter rod. The desired length of the third section can be appropriately adopted in the range of 4mm to 20mm. For example, the third section length can be about 12mm, however the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0092] The third segment can be manufactured so that flavor is imparted by spraying a flavoring liquid onto it during its manufacture. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid can be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated in the cigarette rod 21 can be cooled as it passes through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol can then pass through the third segment to reach the user. Therefore, when flavoring elements are added to the third segment, the durability of the flavor delivered to the user can be enhanced.

[0093] In addition, the filter stick 22 may include at least one capsule 23. The capsule 23 may perform a function of generating flavor or generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may be a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring is encapsulated. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0094] Reference Figure 3 The cigarette 3 may further include a front end plug 33. The front end plug 33 may be disposed on the side of the cigarette rod 31 opposite to the filter rod 32. The front end plug 33 may prevent the cigarette rod 31 from escaping to the outside and may also prevent the aerosol liquefied from the cigarette rod 31 from flowing into the aerosol generating device ( Figures 1a to 1d aerosol generating device 1).

[0095] The filter rod 32 may include a first section 321 and a second section 322. Here, the first section 321 may correspond to Figure 2 The first section of the filter rod 22, and the second section 322 may correspond to Figure 2 The third section of the filter rod 22.

[0096] The diameter and total length of the cigarette 3 may correspond to Figure 2 For example, the length of the front end plug 33 may be about 7 mm, the length of the cigarette rod 31 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first section 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second section 322 may be about 14 mm, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0097] The cigarettes 3 can be packaged in at least one packaging member 35. The packaging member 35 can have at least one hole through which external air is introduced or internal gas is discharged. For example, the front end plug 33 can be packaged in a first packaging member 351, the cigarette rod 31 can be packaged in a second packaging member 352, the first section 321 can be packaged in a third packaging member 353, and the second section 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.

[0098] In addition, at least one perforation 36 may be formed on the fifth packaging member 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in an area surrounding the cigarette rod 31, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 may be formed to Figures 1a to 1d The function of transferring the heat generated by the heater 13 (or the coil 13a and the susceptor 13b) to the inside of the cigarette rod 31.

[0099] Furthermore, the second section 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may function to generate flavor or aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring is encapsulated by a film. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0100] The first package 351 may be a combination of conventional filter paper and metal foil, such as aluminum foil. For example, the total thickness of the first package 351 may be in the range of 45µm to 55µm, and desirably may be approximately 50.3µm. In addition, the thickness of the metal foil of the first package 351 may be in the range of 6µm to 7µm, and desirably may be approximately 6.3µm. In addition, the basis weight of the first package 351 may be 50g / m 2 Up to 55g / m 2 and is expected to be about 53 g / m 2 .

[0101] The second packaging member 352 and the third packaging member 353 can be formed by conventional filter paper. For example, the second packaging member 352 and the third packaging member 353 can be porous packaging paper or non-porous packaging paper.

[0102] For example, the porosity of the second packaging member 352 may be about 35000 CU, however, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the second packaging member 352 may be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and desirably may be about 78 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the second packaging member 352 may be 20 g / m 2 Up to 25g / m 2 and is expected to be about 23.5 g / m 2 .

[0103] For example, the porosity of the third packaging member 353 may be about 24000 CU, however, the embodiment is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the third packaging member 353 may be in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and desirably may be about 68 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the third packaging member 353 may be 20 g / m 2 Up to 25g / m 2 and is expected to be about 21 g / m 2 .

[0104] The fourth packaging member 354 may be formed of polylactic acid (PLA) laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper may refer to a three-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth packaging member 354 may be in the range of 100µm to 120µm, and desirably may be approximately 110µm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth packaging member 354 may be 80g / m 2 Up to 100g / m 2 and is expected to be about 88 g / m 2 .

[0105] The fifth package 355 may be formed of sterile paper (e.g., MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) may refer to specially prepared paper that has increased tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth package 355 may be 57 g / m 2 Up to 63g / m 2 and is expected to be about 60 g / m 2 Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth package member 355 may be in the range of 64µm to 70µm, and desirably may be approximately 67µm.

[0106] A predetermined material can be added to the fifth packaging member 355. This material can be silicon, for example, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has the following properties: heat resistance with minimal temperature fluctuations; oxidation resistance; resistance to various drugs; water resistance; and electrical insulation. However, silicon is not required; any material having the aforementioned properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth packaging member 355 without limitation.

[0107] The front end plug 33 can be formed from cellulose acetate. For example, the front end plug 33 can be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to a cellulose acetate tow. The monodenier of the filaments comprising the cellulose acetate tow can be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and desirably, in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More desirably, the monodenier of the filaments comprising the front end plug 33 can be 5.0. Furthermore, the cross-section of the filaments comprising the front end plug 33 can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the front end plug 33 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and desirably, in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More desirably, the total denier of the front end plug 33 can be 28,000.

[0108] Furthermore, as needed, the front end plug 33 may include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel may be set in various ways.

[0109] The cigarette rod 31 can correspond to the above reference Figure 2Therefore, the detailed description of the cigarette rod 31 will be omitted here.

[0110] The first section 321 can be formed from cellulose acetate. For example, the first section can be a tubular structure having a hollow portion therein. The first section 321 can be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the single denier and total denier of the first section 321 can be the same as those of the front end plug 33.

[0111] The second section 322 can be formed from cellulose acetate. The single denier of the long filaments of the second section 322 can be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and it is expected that it can be in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More desirably, the single denier of the long filaments of the second section 322 can be 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the long filaments of the second section 322 can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second section 322 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and it is expected that it can be about 25,000.

[0112] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 400 according to one embodiment.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 400 (e.g. Figures 1a to 1d The aerosol generating device 1) may include a control unit 410, a sensing unit 420, an output unit 430, a battery 440, a heater 450, a user input unit 460, a memory 470, and a communication unit 480. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 400 is not limited to Figure 4 It should be understood by those skilled in the art that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 400, the Figure 4 Some of the components shown may be different or new components may be added.

[0114] The sensing unit 420 can detect the state of the aerosol generating device 400 or the surrounding state of the aerosol generating device 400 and transmit the detected information to the control unit 410. The control unit 410 can control the aerosol generating device 400 to perform multiple functions based on the detected information, such as controlling the operation of the heater 450, restricting smoking, determining whether to insert an aerosol generating substance (e.g., Figures 1a to 1d as well as Figure 2 Cigarette 2, Figure 3 cigarettes 3 or cartridges), display notifications, etc.

[0115] The sensing portion 420 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 422 , an insertion detection sensor 424 , and a suction sensor 426 , but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0116] Temperature sensor 422 can detect the heating temperature of heater 450 (or the aerosol-generating substance). Aerosol-generating device 400 may include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of heater 450, or heater 450 itself may serve as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, temperature sensor 422 may be arranged around battery 440 to monitor the temperature of battery 440.

[0117] The insertion detection sensor 424 can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is inserted into and / or removed from the aerosol-generating device. For example, the insertion detection sensor 424 can include at least one of a membrane sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductance sensor, and an infrared sensor, which can detect a signal change when the aerosol-generating article is inserted and / or removed.

[0118] The puff sensor 426 may detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 426 may detect the user's puff based on any one of temperature change, flow change, voltage change, and pressure change.

[0119] In addition to the aforementioned sensors (422 to 426), the sensing unit 420 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 a red, green, and blue (RGB) sensor (e.g., an illuminance sensor). Because those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0120] The output unit 430 can output status information about the aerosol generating device 400 to the user. The output unit 430 may include at least one of a display unit 432, a tactile unit 434, and a sound output unit 436, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. When the display unit 432 and a touch panel are provided in a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit 432 can also be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0121] The display unit 432 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 400 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 400 may include various information, such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 440 of the aerosol generating device 400, the preheating status of the heater 450, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article, or the use restriction status of the aerosol generating device 400 (e.g., detection of an abnormality). The display unit 432 can output this information to the outside. The display unit 432 may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. The display unit 432 may also be an LED light emitting element.

[0122] The haptic portion 434 may convert the electrical signal into mechanical stimulation or electrical stimulation to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 400. For example, the haptic portion 434 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0123] The sound output unit 436 may provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 400 through sound. For example, the sound output unit 436 may convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0124] The battery 440 can provide the power required to operate the aerosol generating device 400. The battery 440 can power the heater 450 to heat the device. Furthermore, the battery 440 can provide power required to operate other components of the aerosol generating device 400 (e.g., the sensing unit 420, the output unit 430, the user input unit 460, the memory 470, and the communication unit 480). The battery 440 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 440 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0125] The heater 450 may receive power from the battery 440 to heat the aerosol-generating substance. Figure 4 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 400 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies it to the heater 450. Furthermore, when the aerosol generating device 400 generates aerosol using induction heating, the aerosol generating device 400 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power of the battery 440 into AC power.

[0126] The control unit 410, the sensing unit 420, the output unit 430, the user input unit 460, the memory 470, and the communication unit 480 can receive power from the battery 440 to implement their functions. Figure 4 Not shown, a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage stabilization circuit, that converts power from the battery 440 and supplies the power to various components may also be included.

[0127] In one embodiment, heater 450 may be formed from a predetermined resistive material suitable for generating heat. For example, the resistive material may be a metal or metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nickel-chromium, etc., but the embodiment is not limited thereto. Furthermore, heater 450 may be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with electrically conductive traces, a ceramic heating element, etc., but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0128] In another embodiment, the heater 450 may be an induction heating heater. For example, the heater 450 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating substance.

[0129] In one embodiment, the heater 450 may include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 450 may include a first heater for heating cigarettes and a second heater for heating liquids.

[0130] The user input unit 460 may receive information input by a user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 460 may include a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (contact capacitance type, pressure sensitive film type, infrared sensor type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a scroll wheel, a micro switch, etc., but the embodiment is not limited thereto. Figure 6 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 400 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 440.

[0131] Memory 470 is hardware that stores various data processed by the aerosol generating device 400. It can store data processed by the control unit 410 and data to be processed. Memory 470 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. For example, memory 470 can store various aerosol generating device operating information, such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 400, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and user smoking pattern data, but embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0132] The communication unit 480 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices, such as a short-range wireless communication unit 482 and a wireless communication unit 484 .

[0133] The short-range communication unit 482 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 (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc., but the implementation method is not limited thereto.

[0134] The wireless communication unit 484 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 484 may use subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 400 within the communication network.

[0135] The control unit 410 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 400. In one embodiment, the control unit 410 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as a plurality of logic gate arrays or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory, wherein the memory stores programs executable by the microprocessor. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the at least one processor may be other forms of hardware.

[0136] The control unit 410 can control the temperature of the heater 450 by controlling the power supply from the battery 440 to the heater 450. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 440 and the heater 450. In another example, a heating integrated circuit can control the power supply to the heater 450 according to a control command from the control unit 410.

[0137] The control unit 410 can analyze the detection results of the sensing unit 420 and control subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supplied to the heater 450 based on the detection results of the sensing unit 420, thereby turning the heater 450 on and off. For another example, the control unit 410 can control the amount and duration of power supplied to the heater 450 based on the detection results of the sensing unit 420, so that the heater 450 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0138] The control unit 410 may control the output unit 430 based on the detection result of the sensing unit 420. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 426 reaches a preset number, the control unit 410 may notify the user through at least one of the display unit 432, the tactile unit 434, and the sound output unit 436 that the aerosol generating device 400 is about to stop.

[0139] In one embodiment, the control unit 410 may control the power supply time and / or power amount supplied to the heater 450 based on the state of the aerosol-generating article detected by the sensing unit 420. For example, when the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state, the control unit 410 may control the power supply time to the induction coil, thereby extending the preheating time of the aerosol-generating article compared to a normal state.

[0140] One embodiment may be implemented as a storage medium that includes computer-executable instructions, such as program modules. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer and includes all volatile and non-volatile media, as well as removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes all volatile and non-volatile media and removable and non-removable media implemented using a specific method or technology for storing computer-readable instruction code, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes computer-readable instruction code, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transmission mechanism, and includes any information transmission media.

[0141] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments.

[0142] The following actions 510 and 520 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figures 1a to 1d aerosol generating device 1 or Figure 4 The aerosol generating device 400 is performed. The aerosol generating device may include Figures 1a to 1d aerosol generating device 1 or Figure 4 At least part of the aerosol generating device 400. For example, the aerosol generating device may include a control unit (e.g., Figures 1a to 1d The control unit 12 or Figure 4 ), a heater (e.g., Figures 1a to 1c The heater 13 or the vaporizer 14, Figure 1d Coil 13a or Figure 4 heater 450) and a power supply unit (eg, Figures 1a to 1d Battery 11 or Figure 4 of battery 440).

[0143] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may comprise a detection circuit comprising a first electrode circuit and a second electrode circuit, the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit being arranged in a position for inserting an aerosol generating article (e.g. Figures 1a to 1d and Figure 2 Cigarette 2 or Figure 33) of the cigarette accommodating space (for example, Figure 1d For example, when no aerosol-generating article is inserted, the detection circuit may form an open circuit connected to the control unit.

[0144] In action 510, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine the target type of the aerosol generating article based on the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit, wherein the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit appear when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the receiving space so that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected through the aerosol generating article.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device control unit can determine the target type of the aerosol generating article based on the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit, wherein the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit appear when the first electrode of the first electrode circuit and the second electrode of the second electrode circuit are electrically connected through the conductive material of the aerosol generating article.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit may be electrically connected via a conductive material of the aerosol-generating article, thereby forming a closed circuit including the detection circuit and the control unit. The detection circuit may receive power from the power supply unit via the closed circuit. The control unit may determine the target type of the aerosol-generating article based on the electrical characteristics exhibited by the detection circuit when energized.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit (or the electrical characteristics exhibited by the detection circuit) may include the magnitude and rise rate of the detection circuit's output signal that appears when the power supply unit supplies power. The control unit may determine the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit by measuring the detection circuit's output signal.

[0148] According to one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may store information regarding correlations between electrical characteristics of a detection circuit and types of aerosol-generating articles. For example, the aerosol-generating device may store a lookup table that displays information regarding corresponding types of aerosol-generating articles to various electrical characteristics of the detection circuit (e.g., output signal magnitude, output signal magnitude range, output signal rate of rise per unit time, or output signal rate of rise per unit time range).

[0149] The control unit of the aerosol generating device may determine the type of aerosol generating article corresponding to the determined electrical characteristics of the detection circuit as the target type based on association information (e.g., a lookup table) between the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit and the types of aerosol generating articles.

[0150] In act 520 , the control of the aerosol-generating device may control the power supplied to the heater according to the target type of aerosol-generating article.

[0151] The aerosol generating device may be located in a reservoir (e.g. Figure 4 At least one profile (temperature profile or heating profile) for controlling the power supplied to the heater is stored in the memory 470 .

[0152] At least one curve stored in the aerosol-generating device may correspond to a specific type of aerosol-generating article. Each curve may include information for appropriately controlling the power supplied to the heater when using the corresponding type of aerosol-generating article. For example, information regarding the correlation between the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit and the type of aerosol-generating article may include curve information corresponding to each type of aerosol-generating article.

[0153] According to an embodiment, the control of the aerosol-generating device may determine a target temperature profile corresponding to a target type of aerosol-generating article from the at least one profile.

[0154] According to an embodiment, the control unit of the aerosol generating device may control the power supplied to the heater based on the target temperature profile.

[0155] Figure 6 FIG2 is a diagram illustrating a conductive material of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment.

[0156] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (e.g. Figures 1a to 1d aerosol generating device 1 or Figure 4 The first electrode circuit of the aerosol generating device 400 may include a first electrode, and the second electrode circuit may include a second electrode. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating article 6 (eg, Figures 1a to 1d and Figure 2 Cigarette 2 or Figure 3 The cigarette 3) may include a conductive material having a resistance value corresponding to the type of aerosol-generating article 6 and surrounding the outer periphery of the aerosol-generating article 6. For example, the conductive material may be provided on the packaging of the aerosol-generating article 6 (e.g., Figure 2 24 packages, or Figure 3 The aerosol-generating article 6 may include a conductive material that contacts both the first electrode and the second electrode when inserted into the aerosol-generating device. In this case, the aerosol-generating device may determine the target type of the aerosol-generating article 6 based on the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit that appear based on the resistance value of the conductive material.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the first electrode circuit of the aerosol generating device may include at least one first electrode arranged along the insertion direction of the aerosol generating article, and the second electrode circuit may include at least one second electrode arranged along the insertion direction of the aerosol generating article. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating article 6 may include a conductive material around the outer circumference at a position corresponding to the type of aerosol generating article 6. For example, the conductive material may be provided on the packaging of the aerosol generating article 6 (e.g., Figure 2 24 packages, or Figure 3 On the packaging 35). Figure 6 A case where the conductive material is arranged at a position corresponding to the type of aerosol-generating article 6 will be described.

[0158] The conductive material may be arranged at different positions along the direction in which the aerosol-generating article 6 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. The first position 61, the second position 63 and the third position 65 on the outer circumference of the aerosol-generating article 6 where the conductive material may be arranged may correspond to the target type of the aerosol-generating article 6, respectively.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the conductive material disposed at the first location 61, the second location 63, or the third location 65 can be manufactured to have a predetermined width and resistance. For example, the conductive material can be wrapped or printed in a band shape at the first location 61, the second location 63, or the third location 65 of the aerosol-generating article 6. For example, the conductive material can be wrapped around the aerosol-generating article 6 in the form of a conductive tape.

[0160] According to an embodiment, the first, second and third locations 61, 63, and 65 where the conductive material is arranged may respectively correspond to target types of the aerosol generating article 6 depending on one of tobacco, particles and liquid states as the medium type.

[0161] Figure 7 FIG2 is a diagram illustrating a detection circuit of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0162] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (e.g. Figures 1a to 1d aerosol generating device 1 or Figure 4 The detection circuit 7 of the aerosol generating device 400) may be connected to a control unit (eg, Figures 1a to 1d The control unit 12 or Figure 4 410) and a power supply unit (eg, Figures 1a to 1d Battery 11 or Figure 4 The detection circuit 7 may include a first electrode circuit 71 and a second electrode circuit 73.

[0163] According to an embodiment, the first electrode circuit 71 may include a first electrode circuit 71 disposed along the aerosol generating article (e.g., Figures 1a to 1d and Figure 2 Cigarette 2 or Figure 3 The second electrode circuit 73 may include at least one first electrode 710 arranged along the insertion direction of the aerosol-generating article.

[0164] According to an embodiment, the second electrode circuit 73 may include resistors having different resistance values ​​connected to each of the at least one second electrode 730 .

[0165] According to one embodiment, the second electrode circuit 73 may include an element connected to each of the at least one second electrode 730 to distinguish the electrical characteristics of the detection circuit 7. For example, the at least one second electrode 730 may be connected to capacitors having different capacitance values ​​or inductors having different inductance values. For example, the at least one second electrode 730 may be connected to different types of elements or combinations thereof (e.g., a resistor and a capacitor, a resistor and an inductor, or a capacitor and an inductor). The element connected to the at least one second electrode 730 may have characteristic values ​​(e.g., resistance value, capacitance value, inductance value) that are sufficiently different to distinguish the electrical characteristics exhibited by the detection circuit 7.

[0166] Figure 8 1 is a diagram illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0167] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 8 (e.g. Figures 1a to 1d aerosol generating device 1 or Figure 4 The aerosol generating device 400 may include a detection circuit 7 .

[0168] According to one embodiment, when the aerosol-generating article 6 (e.g. Figures 1a to 1d and Figure 2 Cigarette 2 or Figure 3 When the cigarette 3) is inserted into the receiving space of the aerosol-generating device 8, the first electrode 711 of the at least one first electrode of the first electrode circuit 71 and the second electrode 731 of the at least one second electrode of the second electrode circuit 73 can be electrically connected via the conductive material 60 of the aerosol-generating article 6. The conductive material 60 of the aerosol-generating article 6 can be in contact with the first electrode 711 and the second electrode 731 at the same time.

[0169] According to one embodiment, when the aerosol-generating article 6 is inserted into the receiving space of the aerosol-generating device 8 and the first electrode circuit 71 and the second electrode circuit 73 are electrically connected through the conductive material 60 of the aerosol-generating article 6, the control unit of the aerosol-generating device 8 (e.g., Figures 1a to 1dThe control unit 12 or Figure 4 The control unit 410) can be powered by a power supply unit (eg, Figures 1a to 1d Battery 11 or Figure 4 The battery 440 receives power to turn on the power of the aerosol generating device 8. That is, when the power of the aerosol generating device 8 is off, the aerosol generating article 6 can be inserted to turn on the power without user input.

[0170] According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 8 is powered on, the control of the aerosol generating device 8 may determine the target type of the aerosol generating article 6 .

[0171] According to one embodiment, the aerosol-generating device 8 can be powered on when the aerosol-generating article 6 is inserted, without requiring separate user input. In this case, power can be supplied to the heater according to a target temperature profile suitable for (or corresponding to) the target type of the aerosol-generating article 6. When the aerosol-generating article 6 is removed from the aerosol-generating device 8, the control portion of the aerosol-generating device 8 can detect that the electrical connection between the first electrode 711 and the second electrode 731 is disconnected, thereby automatically turning off the power based on the disconnection of the electrical connection between the first electrode 711 and the second electrode 731.

[0172] The methods according to the embodiments are embodied in the form of program instructions that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program instructions, data files, data structures, etc., either individually or in combination. The program instructions recorded on the medium may be instructions specifically designed and constructed to implement the embodiments, or instructions that can be used by a person skilled in the art of computer software based on known techniques. Computer-readable recording media may include: magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes; optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs; magneto-optical media such as floppy disks; and hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program instructions, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and flash memory. Examples of program instructions include not only machine language code generated by a compiler, but also high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using, for example, an interpreter. To perform the operations of the embodiments, the hardware device may be configured to implement the operations using one or more software modules, or vice versa.

[0173] Software can include computer programs, code, instructions, or a combination of more than one of these, that cause a processing device to operate in a desired manner or, individually or collectively, instruct a processing device. Software and / or data can be embodied, permanently or temporarily, in any type of device, component, physical device, virtual equipment, computer storage medium or device, or transmitted signal wave for interpretation by the processing device or to provide instructions or data to the processing device. Software can be distributed across computer systems connected via a network and can be stored or executed in a distributed manner. Software and data can be stored on one or more computer-readable storage media.

[0174] Although the present disclosure includes specific examples, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made in these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. Appropriate results may be obtained if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if the components of the described systems, architectures, devices, or circuits are combined or combined in different configurations, or replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents.

[0175] Therefore, the scope of the present invention is not limited by the specific contents of the description, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be construed as being included in the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that include: a detection circuit comprising a first electrode circuit and a second electrode circuit, the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit being arranged inside a receiving space for inserting the aerosol-generating article and not electrically connected to each other; a heater that heats the aerosol-generating article; Control Department; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the control unit, The control unit performs the following actions: determining the target type of the aerosol-generating article based on an electrical characteristic of the detection circuit, wherein the electrical characteristic of the detection circuit occurs as the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the receiving space such that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected through the aerosol-generating article; and Power supplied to the heater is controlled based on the target type of the aerosol-generating article.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The first electrode circuit comprises at least one first electrode arranged along the insertion direction of the aerosol-generating article; The second electrode circuit comprises at least one second electrode arranged along the insertion direction of the aerosol-generating article.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein: The second electrode circuit includes resistors having different resistance values ​​connected to each of the at least one second electrode.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The aerosol-generating article comprises an electrically conductive material around a perimeter at locations corresponding to a target type of aerosol-generating article.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, characterized in that The act of determining the target type of the aerosol-generating article comprises the acts of: The target type of the aerosol-generating article is determined based on an electrical characteristic of the detection circuit that occurs when the first electrode of the first electrode circuit is electrically connected to the second electrode of the second electrode circuit through the conductive material of the aerosol-generating article.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The act of controlling power supplied to the heater based on the target type of the aerosol-generating article comprises the acts of: determining a target temperature profile in at least one temperature profile corresponding to the target type of aerosol-generating article; and Power supplied to the heater is controlled based on the target temperature profile.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein When the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the accommodation space so that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected via the aerosol-generating article, the control unit receives power from the power supply unit so that the aerosol-generating device is powered on.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The first electrode circuit includes a first electrode, the second electrode circuit includes a second electrode, The aerosol-generating article includes a conductive material having a resistance value corresponding to the target type of aerosol-generating article and surrounding a circumference thereof.

9. A method for controlling an aerosol generating device executed by the aerosol generating device, characterized in that: The aerosol generating device comprises: a detection circuit comprising a first electrode circuit and a second electrode circuit, the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit being arranged inside a receiving space for inserting the aerosol-generating article and not electrically connected to each other; a heater that heats the aerosol-generating article; Control Department; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the control unit, And the control method includes the following actions: determining the target type of the aerosol-generating article based on an electrical characteristic of the detection circuit, wherein the electrical characteristic of the detection circuit occurs as the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the receiving space such that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected through the aerosol-generating article; and Power supplied to the heater is controlled based on the target type of the aerosol-generating article.

10. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that: include: a detection circuit comprising a first electrode circuit and a second electrode circuit, the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit being arranged inside a receiving space for inserting the aerosol-generating article and not electrically connected to each other; a heater that heats the aerosol-generating article; Control Department; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the control unit, When the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the accommodation space so that the first electrode circuit and the second electrode circuit are electrically connected via the aerosol-generating article, the control unit receives power from the power supply unit so that the aerosol-generating device is powered on.

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