Aerosol-generating device and method of operating same

Abstract

According to an embodiment, an aerosol-generating device includes: a housing including a cavity containing an aerosol-generating article; an optical sensor detecting whether an aerosol-generating article is present in the cavity based on a comparison result between the sensing value and a threshold value, the threshold value including a first threshold value and a second threshold value; and a processor electrically connected to the optical sensor wherein the processor can obtain a first sensing value of the optical sensor detected when an aerosol-generating article is inserted and a second sensing value of the optical sensor detected when the aerosol-generating article is removed, and updating the threshold value to a new threshold value based on the first sensing value and the second sensing value. In addition to this, various embodiments, which can be confirmed by the specification, are feasible.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments of this disclosure relate to an aerosol generating apparatus for setting a sensing threshold based on the sensing value of an optical sensor, and a method for operating the aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternatives to overcome the drawbacks of regular cigarettes. For example, there is a growing need for systems that generate aerosols by heating cigarettes or aerosol-generating substances using an aerosol-generating device (instead of methods that generate aerosols by burning cigarettes).

[0003] Recently, aerosol generating devices that include separate sensors for detecting whether a cigarette has been inserted or removed, the type of cigarette, etc., have become more diverse. For example, an aerosol generating device may include a cigarette recognition sensor (e.g., a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, etc.) for detecting cigarettes based on electrical signals, and may also include a cigarette recognition sensor (e.g., an optical sensor) for detecting cigarettes based on optical signals.

[0004] In particular, to increase the accuracy of cigarette detection and prevent false detections, aerosol generating devices can detect cigarettes using various combinations of cigarette recognition sensors (e.g., inductive and optical sensors). Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues When an aerosol generator detects cigarettes using a light-based cigarette recognition sensor, the device may experience reduced sensitivity to cigarette insertion / removal due to foreign objects. In other words, the sensing area of ​​the cigarette recognition sensor, which detects cigarette insertion based on the amount of light reflected from the cigarette, may be contaminated by foreign objects. This can cause the aerosol generator to continue performing control operations even after the cigarette has been removed, mistakenly detecting the foreign object as a cigarette. When a foreign object is mistakenly detected as a cigarette, the aerosol generator does not enter standby mode, thus increasing its power consumption.

[0006] When an aerosol generating device detects cigarettes using an electrical signal-based cigarette recognition sensor, the device may not only detect cigarettes but also erroneously detect the approach of an object that generates its own magnetic field (e.g., a magnet) as the insertion of a cigarette. In other words, when an object generating a magnetic field approaches the aerosol generating device, the electrical signal within the cigarette recognition sensor may change, and the aerosol generating device may erroneously detect the object's proximity as the insertion of a cigarette and subsequently execute control operations.

[0007] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided that can continuously update the sensing threshold of an optical sensor based on sensing values, and determine the insertion / removal of a cigarette based on the updated sensing threshold.

[0008] The problems to be solved by the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain can clearly understand from this specification and the accompanying drawings any problems not mentioned.

[0009] Technical solution According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating apparatus includes: a housing including a cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article; an optical sensor for detecting the presence of the aerosol generating article in the cavity based on a comparison between a sensed value and a threshold, the threshold including a first threshold and a second threshold; and a processor electrically connected to the optical sensor, wherein the processor is configured to: obtain a first sensed value of the optical sensor detected when the aerosol generating article is inserted and a second sensed value of the optical sensor detected when the aerosol generating article is removed, and update the threshold to a new threshold based on the first sensed value and the second sensed value.

[0010] According to another embodiment, an operation method of an aerosol generating device includes the following steps: obtaining a first sensing value detected when an aerosol generating article is inserted and a second sensing value detected when the aerosol generating article is removed by an optical sensor, wherein the optical sensor detects whether the aerosol generating article is present in a cavity based on a comparison result between the sensing value and a threshold; and updating the threshold to a new threshold based on the first sensing value and the second sensing value.

[0011] Beneficial effects According to various embodiments of this disclosure, when the aerosol generating device detects a cigarette through an optical sensor, the aerosol generating device can determine the insertion or removal of the cigarette based on an updated sensing threshold of the optical sensor, thereby preventing false detections caused by foreign objects attached near the optical sensor.

[0012] Furthermore, when the aerosol generating device detects cigarettes using both an electrical signal-based cigarette recognition sensor and an optical sensor, the aerosol generating device can prevent erroneous detection by the electrical signal-based cigarette recognition sensor through the sensing capabilities of the optical sensor.

[0013] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain will clearly understand from this specification and the accompanying drawings any effects not mentioned. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1This is a diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the main body, the smoke cartridge, and the cap of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the main body, the cartridge, and the cap of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of a smoke cartridge of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a smoke cartridge of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for setting a threshold in an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 13a This is a diagram showing the state in which an aerosol-generating article is inserted into an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 13b This is a diagram showing the state in which the aerosol-generated article is removed from an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 13c This is a graph showing the output signal of an optical sensor according to an embodiment, based on the insertion and removal of an article generated by an aerosol.

[0029] Figure 14a This is a diagram showing the state in which an aerosol-generating article is inserted into an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 14b This is a diagram showing the state in which the aerosol-generated article is removed from an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 14c This is a graph showing the output signal of an optical sensor according to an embodiment, based on the insertion and removal of an article generated by an aerosol.

[0032] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for outputting user notifications from an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 16 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In the following description, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or similar constituent elements will be assigned the same reference numerals, regardless of the reference numerals in the drawings, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0035] The suffixes “-module” and “-section” used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably for the convenience of writing the specification only, and do not have different meanings or functions.

[0036] Furthermore, when describing embodiments of this disclosure, detailed descriptions of related known technologies that may obscure the essence of the embodiments may be omitted. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments described herein, and the technical concepts disclosed herein are not limited to the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and even substitutions included within the concept and scope of this disclosure.

[0037] Although terms including ordinal numbers such as first and second may be used herein to describe various constituent elements, these constituent elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from another.

[0038] When a constituent element is described as being "connected to" or "integrated into" another constituent element, it may be either directly connected to or integrated into the other constituent element, or there may be other constituent elements in between. In contrast, when a constituent element is described as being "directly connected to" or "directly integrated into" another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements in between.

[0039] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form includes the plural form.

[0040] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0041] Reference Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, a heater 18, and a cartridge 19. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, sensor 13, and heater 18 may be arranged inside the body 10 of the aerosol generating device 1. The body 10 provides an upwardly opening space into which a rod S, serving as an aerosol generating article, is inserted. This upwardly opening space may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by recessing to a specific depth toward the interior of the body 10, allowing at least a portion of the rod S to be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region in the rod S that includes the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the rod S may be inserted into the body 10, and the upper end of the rod S may protrude beyond the body 10. A user may inhale air by biting the exposed upper end of the rod S in their mouth.

[0042] Heater 18 heats rod S. Heater 18 may extend upwards relatively long around the periphery of the space in which rod S is inserted. For example, heater 18 may be in the form of a tube including a hollow portion inside. Heater 18 may be arranged around the periphery of the insertion space. Heater 18 may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. Heater 18 heats the insertion space or the rod S inserted into the insertion space. Heater 18 may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0043] For example, heater 18 may be a resistance heater. For example, heater 18 may include conductive traces, and heater 18 may be heated when current flows through the conductive traces. Heater 18 may be electrically connected to power supply 11. Heater 18 may be supplied with current from power supply 11 and directly generate heat.

[0044] For example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include an induction coil surrounding a heater 18. The induction coil can generate heat in the heater 18. The heater 18 may be an induction heating element (susceptor), and the heater 18 may generate heat by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field can pass through the heater 18 and generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current can generate heat in the heater 18.

[0045] On the other hand, the induction heating element may be included inside the rod S, and the induction heating element inside the rod S can generate heat through the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil.

[0046] The cartridge 19 may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances with volatile tobacco flavor components, or it may be a liquid containing non-tobacco substances.

[0047] The smoke cartridge 19 can be integrally formed with the main body 10 or detachably attached to the main body 10.

[0048] For example, refer to Figure 1 The smoke cartridge 19 can be integrally formed with the main body 10 and can be connected to the insertion space through the airflow channel CN.

[0049] For example, refer to Figure 2 A space may be formed in one side of the main body 10, and at least a portion of the cartridge 19 may be inserted into the space formed in one side of the main body 10, so that the cartridge 19 can be installed in the main body 10. An airflow channel CN ​​may be defined by a portion of the cartridge 19 and / or a portion of the main body 10, and the cartridge 19 may communicate with the insertion space through the airflow channel CN.

[0050] The main body 10 can be configured such that, with the cartridge 19 inserted into the main body 10, external air can be introduced into the main body 10. Here, the external air introduced into the main body 10 can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0051] The cartridge 19 may include a storage section C0 containing aerosol-generating substances and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating substances in the storage section C0. A liquid delivery member impregnated with (containing) aerosol-generating substances may be arranged inside the storage section C0. Here, the liquid delivery member may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The conductive trace of the heater 24 may be formed as a coil-shaped structure wound around the liquid delivery member or a structure in contact with one side of the liquid delivery member. The heater 24 may be referred to as a cartridge heater 24.

[0052] The cartridge 19 can generate an aerosol. An aerosol is generated when the liquid delivery component is heated by the cartridge heater 24. The aerosol can also be generated by heating the rod S via heater 18. As the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 and heater 18 passes through the rod S, tobacco substances can be added to the aerosol, and the aerosol containing tobacco substances can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the rod S.

[0053] The aerosol generating device 1 may include only the cartridge heater 24, without the heater 18 in the main body 10. In this case, the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 may contain tobacco substances as it passes through the stick S and can be inhaled into the user's mouth.

[0054] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a cap (not shown). The cap may be detachably attached to the body 10 to cover at least a portion of the cartridge 19 attached to the body 10. A rod S may pass through the cap and be inserted into the body 10.

[0055] Power source 11 supplies power to enable the components of aerosol generating device 1 to operate. Power source 11 may be referred to as a battery. Power source 11 can supply power to at least one of control unit 12, sensor 13, cartridge heater 24, and heater 18. When aerosol generating device 1 includes an induction coil, power source 11 can supply power to the induction coil.

[0056] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device. The control unit 12 can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, heater 18, and cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generating device. The control unit 12 can confirm the status of each component of the aerosol generating device to determine whether the aerosol generating device is in an operable state.

[0057] The control unit 12 can analyze the detection results of the sensor 13 and control the subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the detection results of the sensor 13 to start or stop the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, based on the detection results of the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 and the duration of power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0058] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a cap detection sensor. For example, sensor 13 may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the body 10. For example, sensor 13 may sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 may sense whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, sensor 13 may sense whether a cartridge is installed. For example, sensor 13 may sense whether a cap is installed.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the main body, smoke cartridge, and cap of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device A100 may include a main body A3. The aerosol generating device A100 may include a cap A30. The aerosol generating device A100 may include a cartridge A40. The cartridge A40 may be detachably attached to one side of the main body A3. The cap A30 may be detachably attached to the main body A3 to cover the cartridge A40. A stick S may pass through the cap A30 and be inserted into the main body A3.

[0061] Reference Figure 4 The main body A3 may include a lower main body A1 and an upper main body A2. The components of the aerosol generating device A100 (battery, control unit, etc.) may be installed in the lower main body A1. The upper main body A2 may be attached to the upper side of the lower main body A1.

[0062] The upper body A2 may include a column A10 and a seat A20. The column A10 may extend relatively long in the vertical direction. The column A10 may include an outer side wall A11, an inner side wall A12, and an upper wall A13.

[0063] The base A20 may protrude from the lower part of the inner wall A12 of the pillar A10. The base A20 may face upward. The cartridge area A24 may be formed between the inner wall A12 of the pillar A10 and the base A20. The cartridge area A24 may be located on one side of the inner wall A12 of the pillar A10 and may be located above the base A20.

[0064] The column A10 may include an insertion space A142. The insertion space A142 may extend vertically inside the column A10 and open upward so that the upper wall A13 opens.

[0065] A main entrance A141 may be formed in one side of the column A10. The main entrance A141 may be formed by opening the inner wall A12. The main entrance A141 may open outwards toward the column A10. The main entrance A141 may communicate with the insertion space A142. The main entrance A141 may be arranged to face the cartridge area A24. The main entrance A141 may communicate with the cartridge area A24.

[0066] The cartridge A40 can be detachably attached to the upper body A2 within the cartridge region A24. The cartridge A40 can be attached to the inner wall A12 of the pillar A10 and can be placed on the seat A20, thus supporting the bottom of the cartridge A40. The cartridge A40 may include a first container A41 and a second container A42. The first container A41 can be disposed above the second container A42. The first container A41 can store liquid.

[0067] A cap A30 covers the upper body A2 and can be detachably attached to the body A3. The cap A30 covers the upper body A2 and the cartridge A40 attached to the upper body A2. A space is formed within the cap A30 into which the upper body A2 and the cartridge A40 are inserted. The space within the cap A30 is downwardly openable. A side wall A31 of the cap A30 surrounds the side of the space within the cap A30. An upper wall A33 of the cap A30 covers the upper part of the space within the cap A30. An insertion port A34 is formed by opening the upper wall A33. When the cap A30 is attached to the body A3, the insertion port A34 communicates with the insertion space A142 above it. A cover A35 is movably mounted on the upper wall A33. The cover A35 can slide on the upper wall A33. The cover A35 can open and close the insertion port A34.

[0068] Reference Figure 5 A first chamber AC1 may be formed within a first container A41. Liquid may be stored in the first chamber AC1. A second chamber AC2 may be formed within a second container A42.

[0069] The cartridge inlet A441 can be formed by opening the cartridge A40. The cartridge outlet A442 can be formed by opening the cartridge A40. The cartridge flow path A443 can connect the cartridge inlet A441 to the second chamber AC2. The cartridge outlet A442 can communicate with the second chamber AC2.

[0070] The cartridge outlet A442 can be formed by opening one side of the second container A42. An exhaust port A422 can surround the cartridge outlet A442. The exhaust port A422 can protrude from one side of the second container A42. When the cartridge A40 is attached to the upper body A2, the exhaust port A422 can be inserted into the body inlet A141, and the cartridge outlet A442 and the body inlet A141 can communicate with each other.

[0071] Core material A45 can be installed in the second chamber AC2. Core material A45 can be connected to the first chamber AC1. Liquid can be supplied to core material A45 from the first chamber AC1. Heater A46 can generate heat and heat core material A45. Heater A46 can be arranged within the second chamber AC2. Heater A46 can be wound around core material A45. When heater A46 heats core material A45, an aerosol can be generated around core material A45 in the second chamber AC2.

[0072] Heater terminal A47 may be exposed at the bottom of cartridge A40. Heater terminal A47 may be formed at the bottom of second container A42. Heater terminal A47 may be electrically connected to heater A46. When cartridge A40 is attached to upper body A2, heater terminal A47 may contact and be electrically connected to first pin A50.

[0073] The first pin A50 protrudes outside the base A20. The first pin A50 is powered by a battery installed in the lower body A1 via connector A97, and supplies power to heater terminal A47 and heater A46. Heater A46 is powered and generates heat.

[0074] Air from outside the cartridge A40 is introduced into the cartridge A40 through the cartridge inlet A441. The air flows sequentially through the cartridge inlet A441, the cartridge flow path A443, the second chamber AC2, and the cartridge outlet A442. Air inside the cartridge A40 is exhausted to the outside of the cartridge A40 through the cartridge outlet A442. The air introduced into the cartridge A40 may be accompanied by aerosol generated in the second chamber AC2, and is also exhausted to the outside of the cartridge A40 through the cartridge outlet A442.

[0075] The first pin A50 may be disposed inside the body A3 and may protrude outside the body A3. The body A3 may include a base A20.

[0076] The base A20 may have an external groove A25. The external groove A25 may be formed by recessing the upper surface A21 of the base A20 downwards. The external groove A25 may be located below the cartridge area A24. The upper surface A21 of the base A20 may be referred to as the outer surface of the main body A3. The external groove A25 may be formed in the outer surface of the main body A3.

[0077] The lower part of the outer recess A25 may be covered by the bottom A251, and the side of the outer recess A25 may be covered by the outer peripheral portion A252. The upper side of the outer recess A25 may be open. One side of the outer recess A25 may be open and not covered by the outer peripheral portion A252. When the x-direction indicated in the coordinate system is defined as forward, the front of the outer recess A25 may be open. The upper end of the first pin A50 may protrude upward from the bottom A251 of the outer recess A25 toward the outer recess A25 or be exposed.

[0078] The bottom of the cartridge A40 may have a shape corresponding to the base A20 and the outer groove A25. When the cartridge A40 is attached to the upper body A2, the bottom of the cartridge A40 may be placed on the base A20, and the first pin A50 and the second pin A47 may be electrically connected to each other.

[0079] Multiple guide portions A253 may be provided. Each guide portion A253 may extend relatively far from front to rear. Each guide portion A253 may be angled and gradually increase in height from front to rear. Each of the multiple guide portions A253 may be positioned in front of each of the multiple first pins A50. The height of the rear end of the guide portion A253 adjacent to the first pin A50 may be the same as or approximately the height of the first pin A50.

[0080] Therefore, when the cartridge A40 is attached to the upper body A2, the guide part A253 can guide the arrangement of the cartridge A40 so that the first pin A50 and the second pin A47 come into contact with each other.

[0081] Figure 6 This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the main body, the cartridge, and the cap of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of a smoke cartridge of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a smoke cartridge of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a body B100, which includes an upper body B120 and a lower body B110. The upper body B120 may be located above the lower body B110. The lower body B110 may extend vertically. The body B100 may accommodate components for driving the aerosol generating apparatus therein. The upper body B120 may provide an upwardly open insertion space B134. The insertion space B134 may be located inside the upper body B120. The insertion space B134 may extend vertically. The insertion space B134 may be formed in a conduit B130 located inside the upper body B120.

[0083] The upper shell B200 may have a hollow shape with an open lower portion. The upper body B120 may be inserted into the hollow portion of the upper shell B200. The upper shell B200 may be detachably attached to the body B100. The upper shell B200 may cover the upper body B120 to surround the upper body B120. The lateral portion B211 of the upper shell B200 may surround and cover the side wall B121 of the upper body B120. The upper portion B212 of the upper shell B200 may cover the upper portion B180 or the outer cover B180 of the upper body B120. When the upper shell B200 is attached to the body B100, the upper shell B200 may together cover the body B100 and the cartridge B300. The cartridge B300 may be disposed inside the upper shell B200.

[0084] An insertion port B214 can be formed by opening the upper portion B212 of the upper housing B200. The insertion port B214 may correspond to the opening of the insertion space B134. A cover B215 can be movably mounted on the upper portion B212 of the upper housing B200. A sliding hole B213 can be formed in the upper portion B212 of the upper housing B200 by extending to one side from the insertion port B214. The cover B215 can move along the sliding hole B213. The cover B215 can open and close the insertion port B214 and the insertion space B134. A rod S can be inserted into the insertion space B134 through the insertion port B214. For example, the rod S can be a cigarette.

[0085] The outer side wall B121 and the partition wall B125 can form the lateral portion of the upper body B120. The outer side wall B121 and the partition wall B125 can be connected to each other. The outer side wall B121 can be covered by the inner surface of the upper housing B200. The partition wall B125 can separate the cartridge binding space B124a from the insertion space B134.

[0086] The upper body B120 may include a seat B122. The seat B122 may extend to one side from the lower part of the partition wall B125. The seat B122 may be formed on the upper side of the lower body B110. The seat B122 may cover the lower part of the cartridge bonding space B124a. The bottom surface of the cartridge B300 may be placed on and supported by the seat B122.

[0087] The upper body B120 may include an extension B140. The extension B140 extends to one side from the upper part of the partition wall B125. The extension B140 extends in the direction of forming the seat portion B122. The extension B140 covers the upper part of the cartridge bonding space B124a. The extension B140 covers the upper end surface of the cartridge B300. The extension B140 covers the cartridge inlet B301 formed in the cartridge B300. An air-flowable gap may be formed between the extension B140 and the cartridge inlet B301.

[0088] The cartridge-connecting space B124a may be formed on one side of the upper body B120. The cartridge-connecting space B124a may be defined by the base B122, the partition wall B125, and the extension B140 of the upper body B120. The bottom of the cartridge-connecting space B124a may be covered by the base B122. One side of the cartridge-connecting space B124a may be covered by the partition wall B125 of the upper body B120. The upper side of the cartridge-connecting space B124a may be covered by the extension B140. The cartridge-connecting space B124a may be open outwards between the base B122 and the extension B140.

[0089] The cartridge B300 can be inserted into the cartridge engagement space B124a to engage with the main body B100. The cartridge B300 can be detachably engaged with the main body B100. One side surface B311 of the cartridge B300 can face the partition wall B125. The upper surface B312 of the cartridge B300 can be covered by the extension B140. The bottom surface B322 of the cartridge B300 can be mounted on the base B122. The cartridge terminal B128 can be connected to the cartridge B300 to supply power to the heater B342 inside the cartridge B300.

[0090] A connecting hook B125a may be formed on the upper body B120. A pushing member B125b may be formed on the upper body B120. The connecting hook B125a and the pushing member B125b may be formed in pairs on both sides of the upper body B120 and arranged in opposite positions. The cartridge B300 may include a hook engaging groove B315. The hook engaging groove B315 may be formed at a position corresponding to the connecting hook B125a. When the cartridge B300 is inserted into the cartridge engaging space B124a, the connecting hook B125a may engage with the hook engaging groove B315 to engage the cartridge B300 with the body B100. The pushing member B125b and the connecting hook B125a may be linked to each other. When the pushing member B125b is pressed, the connecting hook B125a may move in a direction separating from the hook engaging groove B315, and the cartridge B300 may separate from the body B100.

[0091] A connecting flow path B133 may be formed in the lower part of the partition wall B125. The connecting flow path B133 may communicate with the insertion space B134. The connecting flow path B133 may open to one side of the upper body B120. When the cartridge B300 is attached to the body B100, the exhaust port B323 may be inserted into the connecting flow path B133, and the connecting flow path B133 and the cartridge outlet B304 may communicate with each other.

[0092] Reference Figure 8 The cartridge B300 may include a first container B31 and a second container B32. The first container B31 may be attached to the upper side of the second container B32. A plate B35 may be attached between the first container B31 and the second container B32 or between the first container B31 and the frame B33.

[0093] The first container B31 may include a first chamber BC1 in which liquid can be stored. The first container B31 may surround the first chamber BC1, and the lower part of the first chamber BC1 may be open. The opening of the first chamber BC1 may be covered by a plate B35.

[0094] Reference Figure 9The first container B31 may include an inflow channel B302 for air passage. The first chamber BC1 and the inflow channel B302 may be separated from each other. The inflow channel B302 may extend vertically to one side of the first container B31.

[0095] The first container B31 may include a cartridge inlet B301. The cartridge inlet B301 may be formed by opening the upper part of the first container B31 and may communicate with an inflow channel B302. The cartridge inlet B301 may communicate with the upper end of the inflow channel B302. The lower end of the inflow channel B302 may communicate with a connection hole B351 and a chamber inlet B303.

[0096] The second container B32 may be attached to the lower part of the first container B31. The second container B32 may include a space B324 having an open upper part and a covered lower part. A frame B33 may be accommodated inside the space B324 of the second container B32.

[0097] The second container B32 may include a cartridge outlet B304. The cartridge outlet B304 may be formed in a lateral portion B321 of the second container B32. The cartridge outlet B304 may be formed inside a port protruding in the thickness direction from the lateral portion of the second container B32. The cartridge outlet B304 may communicate with a space B324. The second container B32 may include an exhaust port B323. The exhaust port B323 may internally form the cartridge outlet B304. The exhaust port B323 may protrude to one side from the lateral portion B321 of the second container B32. The exhaust port B323 may surround the cartridge outlet B304. The cartridge outlet B304 may be referred to as outlet B304.

[0098] Frame B33 can be inserted into space B324 inside second container B32 to be attached to second container B32. Fastening element B326 protruding from the side wall of second container B32 into space B324 can be fastened to frame B33 to secure frame B33.

[0099] Frame B33 may include a second chamber BC2. Frame B33 may surround the second chamber BC2, and the upper part of the second chamber BC2 may be open. The upper part of the second chamber BC2 may be covered by plate B35.

[0100] Frame B33 may include a chamber inlet B303. The chamber inlet B303 may be formed by opening a surface around a sidewall of the second chamber BC2. The chamber inlet B303 may be bendable and extend upward from the second chamber BC2 toward the inflow channel B302. One end of the chamber inlet B303 may communicate with the second chamber BC2, and the other end of the chamber inlet B303 may be connected to the inflow channel B302 and the connection hole B351.

[0101] Frame B33 may include a chamber outlet B332. The chamber outlet B332 may be formed in a lateral portion of frame B33. The chamber outlet B332 may communicate with a second chamber BC2. The chamber outlet B332 may be formed inside a port protruding in the thickness direction from the lateral portion of frame B33. The chamber outlet B332 may communicate with the second chamber BC2. The chamber outlet B332 may be formed at a position corresponding to the cartridge outlet B304. The chamber outlet B332 may be formed at a position opposite to the chamber inlet B303 relative to the second chamber BC2. When frame B33 is attached to the second container B32, the chamber outlet B332 and the cartridge outlet B304 may communicate with each other.

[0102] Frame B33 may include a core material mating groove B334. The core material mating groove B334 may communicate with a second chamber BC2. The core material mating groove B334 may be formed by recessing the second chamber BC2 to one side. The core material mating grooves B334 may be formed in pairs, and the pair of core material mating grooves B334 may be formed to be positioned opposite each other in the second chamber BC2. The upper part of the core material mating groove B334 may be open.

[0103] The core material B341 may have a cylindrical shape that extends laterally within the second chamber BC2. The two ends of the core material B341 can be positioned by inserting them into a pair of core material mating grooves B334, respectively. The central portion of the core material B341 may be located within the second chamber BC2. The core material B341 may be connected to the first chamber BC1 to supply liquid from the first chamber BC1. The core material B341 may be secured in the core material mating grooves B334 by a frame B33 and a plate B35.

[0104] Heater B342 may be wound around the central portion of core material B341. Heater B342 may generate heat to heat core material B341. For example, heater B342 may be a resistance heater. Heater B342 may be arranged in the second chamber BC2. The end of heater B342 may pass through the bottom of frame B33 and be electrically connected to electrodes arranged at the bottom of the second container B32.

[0105] Plate B35 can be joined between the first container B31 and the second container B32, or between the first container B31 and the frame B33. Plate B35 of frame B33 can cover and seal the opening of the first chamber BC1. Plate B35 can cover the upper part of frame B33. Plate B35 can cover and seal the opening of the second chamber BC2.

[0106] Plate B35 may have a connection hole B351 on one side. The connection hole B351 may be located between the inflow channel B302 and the chamber inlet B303. The connection hole B351 can connect the inflow channel B302 to the chamber inlet B303.

[0107] Plate B35 may include liquid inlet holes B354. A pair of liquid inlet holes B354 may be formed at positions corresponding to the core material bonding groove B334. The pair of liquid inlet holes B354 may be located above both ends of the core material B341. The liquid inlet holes B354 can connect the first chamber BC1 to the core material bonding groove B334. The core material B341 can be connected to the first chamber BC1 through the liquid inlet holes B354.

[0108] A hook groove B335 may be formed adjacent to, above, the chamber outlet B332. A hook B335 may protrude downwards from one side of the plate B35. A hook B353 may be inserted into and secured to the hook groove B335 formed in the upper part of the frame B33. The plate B35 may be secured to the frame B33, and the first container B31, which is coupled to the second container B32, may press the edge of the plate B35 against the frame B33.

[0109] The user can hold the stick S, inserted into the insertion space B134, in their mouth and inhale the gas. When the upper shell B200 is attached to the main body B100, air can be introduced into the cartridge inlet B301 through the opening B201 formed in the upper shell B200. Air can be introduced into the cartridge B300 through the cartridge inlet B301 and discharged to the outside of the cartridge B300 through the cartridge outlet B304. The air introduced into the cartridge B300 can be discharged to the outside by passing sequentially through the inflow channel B302, the connecting hole B351, the chamber inlet B303, the second chamber BC2, the chamber outlet B332, and the cartridge outlet B304.

[0110] When heater B342 heats core material B341, an aerosol is formed from core material B341 within the second chamber BC2. Air passing through cartridge B300, accompanied by the aerosol from the second chamber BC2, is discharged to cartridge outlet B304. The air discharged through cartridge outlet B304 is supplied to insertion space B134 and rod S inserted into insertion space B134 via connecting flow path B133.

[0111] Reference Figure 10 The upper body B120 may include an outer wall B121 and a partition wall B125. The outer wall B121 and the partition wall B125 may be connected to each other. The partition wall B125 may be formed by extending vertically between the conduit B130 and the cartridge bonding space B124a.

[0112] The extension B140 can be formed by extending to one side from the upper part of the upper body B120. The upper surface B312 of the cartridge B300 can be covered by the extension B140. The extension B140 can cover the cartridge inlet B301 and its surrounding area. A gap can be formed between the extension B140 and the cartridge inlet B301, and between the lower part of the extension B140 and the upper surface B312 of the cartridge B300. This gap allows the cartridge inlet B301 to communicate with the outside.

[0113] The pipe B130 may be formed to extend vertically. The pipe B130 may be hollow. The insertion space B134 may be formed inside the pipe B130. The insertion space B134 may open upwards. The insertion space B134 may extend vertically. The connecting flow path B133 may be formed inside the pipe B130. The connecting flow path B133 may be formed below the insertion space B134. One end of the connecting flow path B133 may communicate with the outside of the pipe B130, and the other end of the connecting flow path B133 may communicate with the insertion space B134. The connecting flow path B133 may bend to one side from the lower part of the insertion space B134.

[0114] The first sensor B161 may be installed inside the extension B140. The first sensor B161 may face the upper surface B312 of the cartridge B300 or the cartridge inlet B301. The first sensor B161 may be installed near the cartridge inlet B301. The first sensor B161 may be located above the cartridge inlet B301. The first sensor B161 may be stacked with the cartridge inlet B301 in a vertical direction.

[0115] The first sensor B161 can sense ambient airflow. The first sensor B161 can be an airflow sensor or a pressure sensor. The first sensor B161 can sense airflow by detecting changes in ambient air pressure. At a location adjacent to the cartridge inlet B301, the extension B140 may include an aperture for sensing airflow. The first sensor B161 can be mounted on a substrate disposed inside the extension B140 and can be electrically connected to the control unit B20. The control unit B20 can control the operation of various connected components based on the airflow detected by the first sensor B161.

[0116] The first sealing part B151 may be disposed between the first partition wall part B1251 and the inner plate B171. The first sealing part B151 may surround the upper end of the first partition wall part B1251 and be in close contact with the upper end of the first partition wall part B1251. The first sealing part B151 may be in close contact with the lower end of the inner plate B171.

[0117] The sensor receiving portion B156 of the second sealing portion B152 can seal the periphery of the first sensing hole B144. The sensor receiving portion B156 can be closely fitted to the extension plate B141 surrounding the first sensing hole B144. The second sensing hole B1564 formed in the sensor receiving portion B156 can communicate with the first sensing hole B144. The sensor receiving portion B156 can surround the first sensor B161 and be closely fitted to the first sensor B161.

[0118] Therefore, it can prevent foreign objects, aerosols discharged from around the opening of the pipe B130, or foreign objects through the first sensing hole B144 from causing failure of the substrate or sensor.

[0119] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0120] Reference Figure 11 An aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to one embodiment may include a housing 105, a cavity 110, a processor 120, a battery 130, and an optical sensor 140. The constituent elements of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to one embodiment are not limited thereto, and other constituent elements may be added to it or at least one constituent element may be omitted depending on the embodiment.

[0121] In one embodiment, cavity 110 may be formed in the interior space of housing 105 of aerosol generating apparatus 100, and aerosol generating article 115 contained in cavity 110 may be heated to generate aerosol.

[0122] In one embodiment, the optical sensor 140 may include a light emitting portion (including a light source) and a light receiving portion (receiving reflected light signals), and may be adjacent to the cavity 110. For example, the optical sensor 140 may be separated from the cavity 215 by a predetermined distance in the +x direction, and the light emitting portion and light receiving portion of the optical sensor 140 may surround at least one region of the cavity 110. In another example, the optical sensor 140 may be separated from the cavity 110 by a predetermined distance in the +x direction, and the light emitting portion and light receiving portion of the optical sensor 140 may be arranged along the +z direction.

[0123] In one embodiment, the optical sensor 140 may be separated from the cavity 110 by a predetermined distance in the +x direction, and a separate transparent plate having a thickness corresponding to the separation distance may be located on one surface of the optical sensor 140 where the light emitting part and the light receiving part are arranged. Since the separate transparent plate is located on one surface of the optical sensor 140, the optical sensor 140 can be prevented from being damaged by external foreign objects, and the sensing sensitivity of the optical sensor 140 to the aerosol generating article 115 can be maintained.

[0124] In one embodiment, the processor 120 can detect whether the aerosol generating article 115 is contained within the cavity 110 via an optical sensor 140. For example, when the optical sensor 140 is an infrared sensor (IR sensor), the optical sensor 140 may include a light emitter and a light receiver, and the light emitter includes an infrared light source, and the light receiver includes an infrared photodiode. When the aerosol generating article 115 is contained within the cavity 110, the processor 120 can detect the amount of reflected infrared light reflected by the aerosol generating article 115 (i.e., the output voltage of the light receiver).

[0125] In this disclosure, when the presence of the aerosol generating article 115 is detected by the optical sensor 140, the aerosol generating device 100 can automatically initiate the heating operation for the aerosol generating article 115. When the optical sensor 140 detects that the aerosol generating article 115 has been inserted into the cavity 110, the aerosol generating device 100 can control the power supply for heating the aerosol generating article 115 even if no further user input is received, thus increasing user convenience.

[0126] In this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 may further include a separate cigarette identification sensor (not shown), and the optical sensor 140 prevents false detection by the cigarette identification sensor. For example, when the cigarette identification sensor identifies the insertion, removal, type, state, etc., of the aerosol generating article 115 based on changes in electrical characteristics (e.g., changes in inductance), the cigarette identification sensor may falsely detect an object that is not an aerosol generating article 115 (e.g., a magnetic object) as an aerosol generating article 115 even when such an object approaches the exterior of the aerosol generating apparatus 100. In contrast, the optical sensor 140 may detect only the amount of reflected light from an object inserted into the cavity 110, thereby preventing false detection by the cigarette identification sensor and abnormal control due to false detection.

[0127] In one embodiment, the processor 120 may set a reference value for the optical sensor 140. In this disclosure, "reference value" may refer to an initial reference value used as a benchmark for the optical sensor 140 to sense foreign matter when the optical sensor 140 is partially contaminated by external foreign matter. That is, the reference value may be set during the initial manufacturing of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 and may be set by the manufacturer to various values.

[0128] For example, when the sensing range of the optical sensor 140 is 0 to 10000, the processor 120 can set the reference value of the optical sensor 140 within this sensing range. Specifically, in order to detect the presence of contaminants on the optical sensor 140 regardless of the type of contaminant, the processor 120 can set the reference value of the optical sensor 140 to 0.

[0129] In this case, when the reference value of the optical sensor 140 is set to 0 and there is contaminant covering the optical sensor 140, the processor 120 can detect the presence of contaminant by sensing only values ​​higher than 0 (0 being the set reference value) via the optical sensor 140.

[0130] In one embodiment, processor 120 may detect the presence of aerosol-generating article 115 based on a comparison between a sensed value obtained by optical sensor 140 and a threshold. In this disclosure, a "threshold" may represent a value used by optical sensor 140 to determine the insertion and removal of aerosol-generating article 115. In this case, the threshold may include a first threshold and a second threshold. For example, when the sensed value measured by optical sensor 140 is greater than or equal to the first threshold, processor 120 may determine that aerosol-generating article 115 has been inserted, and when the sensed value measured by optical sensor 140 is less than or equal to the second threshold, processor 120 may determine that aerosol-generating article 115 has been removed.

[0131] In one embodiment, processor 120 may update an existing threshold to a new threshold based on the sensed values ​​obtained by optical sensor 140.

[0132] When the aerosol generating device 100 is used by the user for a long time, the interior of the aerosol generating device 100 may be contaminated by foreign matter (e.g., tobacco substances, condensate caused by aerosols, dust, etc.). In this case, when one surface of the optical sensor 140, in which the light emitting part and the light receiving part are arranged, is contaminated by foreign matter, the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 in the contaminated state may be different from the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 in the uncontaminated state.

[0133] More specifically, the optical sensor 140 can determine the presence of the aerosol-generating article 115 by detecting the amount of reflected light. In this case, when a contaminant adheres to the optical sensor 140 or is near a transparent plate adjacent to the optical sensor 140, the optical sensor 140 may determine the presence of the aerosol-generating article 115 by detecting the amount of light reflected by the contaminant, even if the aerosol-generating article 115 is not present.

[0134] In this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 can update an existing threshold value of the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 to a new threshold value, thereby preventing false detections by the optical sensor 140 due to contaminants. A detailed description is given below.

[0135] In one embodiment, battery 130 can provide power for operating the aerosol generating apparatus 100. For example, when insertion of the aerosol generating article 115 is detected by at least one sensor (e.g., optical sensor 140), battery 130 can supply power to heating elements of the aerosol generating article 115. In another example, battery 130 can supply power required for the operation of processor 120.

[0136] In this case, battery 130 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, battery 130 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but the type of battery 130 is not limited to this.

[0137] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 may further include a memory (not shown) for storing data within the storage device. For example, when a new threshold is obtained for the sensed value of the optical sensor 140, the processor 120 may store the obtained new threshold in the memory. Therefore, even if the sensed data of the optical sensor 140 is reset when the aerosol generating apparatus 100 is subsequently reset, the processor 120 may still obtain the new threshold from the memory and compare the sensed value of the optical sensor 140 with the new threshold.

[0138] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for setting a threshold in an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. In the description... Figure 12 In this case, descriptions corresponding to or similar to those given above may be omitted.

[0139] Reference Figure 12 processor (e.g.) Figure 11 The processor 120) can be obtained in operation 1201 in the aerosol generating article (e.g., Figure 11 The optical sensor (e.g., when the aerosol-generating article 115) is inserted, detects the presence of the aerosol-generating article 115. Figure 11 The first sensed value of the optical sensor 140.

[0140] In this disclosure, a "first sense value" may represent the value of the optical sensor 140 when the aerosol-generating article 115 is inserted into the cavity (e.g., Figure 11 The sensed value when in cavity 110, and specifically, may represent the maximum sensed value obtained by optical sensor 140.

[0141] In other words, when the aerosol generating article 115 is in the cavity 110, the light emitted from the light emitting unit of the optical sensor 140 can be reflected by the aerosol generating article 115, and the reflected light can be received by the light receiving unit of the optical sensor 140. Therefore, the light receiving unit of the optical sensor 140 can output the highest voltage, and the optical sensor 140 can obtain a sensing value corresponding to the highest output voltage as a first sensing value (i.e., the maximum sensing value).

[0142] In one embodiment, when the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 115 is detected by a cigarette recognition sensor (not shown), the processor 120 can obtain a first sensing value via the optical sensor 140. For example, when the cigarette recognition sensor is an inductive sensor, the processor 120 can detect the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 115 by detecting changes in inductance via the cigarette recognition sensor, and can determine the sensing value obtained by the optical sensor 140 at the time of detection of insertion as the first sensing value.

[0143] In another embodiment, when a sensed value is obtained through the optical sensor 140, the processor 120 may obtain a first sensed value based on a plurality of sensed values ​​obtained through the optical sensor 140 within a preset time period starting from the time point at which the sensed value was obtained. For example, when the sensed value obtained through the optical sensor 140 increases, the processor 120 may obtain a plurality of sensed values ​​within a preset time period starting from the time point at which the increased sensed value was obtained, and may determine the maximum value among the plurality of sensed values ​​as the first sensed value.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the processor 120 may obtain a second sensing value of the optical sensor 140 detected during the removal of the aerosol-generating article 115 in operation 1203.

[0145] In this disclosure, "second sensing value" may refer to the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 when the aerosol generating article 115 inserted into the cavity 110 is removed from the cavity 110, and specifically, may refer to the minimum sensing value obtained by the optical sensor 140.

[0146] In other words, when there is no aerosol generating article 115 in cavity 110, the light emitted from the light emitting unit of optical sensor 140 can reach the wall facing optical sensor 140 inside cavity 110, and only a portion of the light is reflected. Therefore, no significant signal is input to the light receiving unit of optical sensor 140. Thus, the light receiving unit of optical sensor 140 can output the lowest voltage, and optical sensor 140 can obtain a sensing value corresponding to the lowest output voltage as a second sensing value (i.e., the minimum sensing value).

[0147] In one embodiment, when the removal of the aerosol-generating article 115 is detected by a cigarette recognition sensor (not shown), the processor 120 can obtain a second sensing value via the optical sensor 140. For example, when the cigarette recognition sensor is an inductive sensor, the processor 120 can detect the removal of the aerosol-generating article 115 by detecting changes in inductance via the cigarette recognition sensor, and can determine the sensing value obtained by the optical sensor 140 at the time the removal is detected as the second sensing value.

[0148] In another embodiment, when a sensed value is obtained through the optical sensor 140, the processor 120 may obtain a second sensed value based on a plurality of sensed values ​​obtained through the optical sensor 140 within a preset time period starting from the time point at which the sensed value was obtained. For example, when the sensed value obtained through the optical sensor 140 decreases, the processor 120 may obtain a plurality of sensed values ​​within a preset time period starting from the time point at which the decreased sensed value was obtained, and determine the minimum value among the plurality of sensed values ​​as the second sensed value.

[0149] According to one embodiment, processor 120 may update an existing threshold to a new threshold in operation 1205 based on a first sense value and a second sense value.

[0150] In this disclosure, a "threshold" may refer to a reference value of the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 used to determine the insertion and removal of the aerosol generating article 115. The threshold may include a first threshold and a second threshold. For example, when the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 is greater than or equal to the first threshold, the processor 120 may determine that the aerosol generating article 115 has been inserted, and when the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 is less than or equal to the second threshold, the processor 120 may determine that the aerosol generating article 115 has been removed.

[0151] In this disclosure, a "new threshold" may indicate that changes in the sensing conditions of the optical sensor 140 (e.g., the level of pollution in the environment near the sensor) are reflected in a reference value of the threshold. In this case, the new threshold may include a new first threshold and a new second threshold.

[0152] For example, during initial setup, the processor 120 can set a first threshold of the optical sensor 140 to 8000 and a second threshold to 2000.

[0153] Subsequently, due to user accumulation, improper use (e.g., using a reused stick), some areas near the optical sensor 140 may become contaminated with foreign objects.

[0154] When the aerosol generating article 115 is inserted, the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 may change due to the foreign object, and the optical sensor 140 may obtain a value greater than a first threshold 8200 as a first sensing value. Furthermore, even when the aerosol generating article 115 is removed, the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 changes due to the foreign object, and therefore, a value greater than a second threshold 2500 may be obtained as a second sensing value.

[0155] In one embodiment, processor 120 may update the thresholds to new thresholds based on a new first threshold less than a first sensed value and a new second threshold greater than a second sensed value. In this case, processor 120 may determine the new first threshold and the new second threshold using various methods. For example, processor 120 may set the new first threshold and the new second threshold based on the amount of change in the sensed value compared to an existing threshold. In another example, processor 120 may also set the new first threshold and the new second threshold by applying a preset ratio to an existing threshold.

[0156] In one embodiment, when a second sensing value is obtained from the optical sensor 140, the processor 120 can update an existing threshold to a new threshold. That is, the processor 120 can obtain the second sensing value via the optical sensor 140 at the time when the aerosol-generating article is removed, and can set and update the new threshold accordingly. The updated new threshold can be applied at the time when a new aerosol-generating article is subsequently inserted.

[0157] Figure 13a This is a diagram showing the state in which an aerosol-generating article is inserted into an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 13b This is a diagram showing the state in which the aerosol-generated article is removed from an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0158] Reference Figure 13a and Figure 13b Optical sensors (e.g.) Figure 11 The optical sensor 140 may include a light emitting unit 1300 and a light receiving unit 1310, the light emitting unit 1300 including a light source, and the light receiving unit 1310 receiving reflected light signals. Although Figure 13a and Figure 13b The light emitting portion 1300 and the light receiving portion 1310 of the optical sensor 140 are shown along the longitudinal direction of the forming cavity 110 (e.g., Figure 11 The light emitter 1300 and the light receiver 1310 are arranged in the "+z direction", but the light emitter 1300 and the light receiver 1310 are not limited thereto. In another example, the light emitter 1300 and the light receiver 1310 of the optical sensor 140 may also be arranged to surround at least one region of the cavity 110.

[0159] In one embodiment, the light emitting portion 1300 and the light receiving portion 1310 may both be separated from the cavity 110 by a predetermined distance, and the transparent plates 1305 and 1315 may be respectively arranged on one surface of the light emitting portion 1300 and one surface of the light receiving portion 1310. In this case, the transparent plates 1305 and 1315 may each have a thickness equal to the predetermined distance between the light emitting portion 1300 and the light receiving portion 1310 and the cavity 110.

[0160] A transparent plate 1305 located on one surface of the light emitting section 1300 provides a light path, allowing light emitted from the light emitting section 1300 to reach the interior of the cavity 110 without distortion, and also prevents foreign objects from entering the light emitting section 1300 of the optical sensor 140.

[0161] A transparent plate 1315 located on one surface of the light receiver 1310 provides a light path so that light emitted from the light emitter 1300 and reflected by the interior of the cavity 110 (i.e., the aerosol generating article 115 inserted into the cavity 110) can reach the light receiver 1310 without distortion, and also prevents foreign objects from entering the light receiver 1310 of the optical sensor 140.

[0162] In one embodiment, when a preset amount of light is emitted from the light emitting unit 1300 of the optical sensor 140, the processor (e.g., Figure 11 The processor 120 can obtain the amount (sensing value) of reflected light input to the light receiver 1310 based on the output signal of the light receiver 1310.

[0163] For example, according to Figure 13a The light emitting section 1300 of the optical sensor 140 can emit a preset amount of light toward the interior of the cavity 110, and the light receiving section 1310 of the optical sensor 140 can receive a portion of the reflected light from the aerosol generating article 115. When the output signal (e.g., output voltage) of the light receiving section 1310 increases to reach the maximum signal value, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol generating article 115 has been inserted into the cavity 110 from the outside.

[0164] For example, according to Figure 13b The light emitting part 1300 of the optical sensor 140 can emit a preset amount of light toward the interior of the cavity 110, and the light receiving part 1310 of the optical sensor 140 may not receive any reflected light. When the output signal (e.g., output voltage) of the light receiving part 1310 decreases to reach a minimum signal value, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol generating article 115 has been removed from the interior of the cavity 110 to the exterior.

[0165] Figure 13cThis is a graph showing the output signal of an optical sensor according to an embodiment, based on the insertion and removal of an article generated by an aerosol. More specifically, Figure 13c It is a graph showing the output signal of an optical sensor that has not been contaminated by external foreign objects.

[0166] In one embodiment, the processor (e.g., Figure 11 The processor 120 can be configured to use an optical sensor (e.g., Figure 11 The optical sensor 140) determines the aerosol-generating article (e.g., Figure 11 Thresholds for insertion and removal of aerosol-generated items (115).

[0167] For example, the processor 120 may set a first threshold S for the optical sensor 140 used to determine the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 115. th1 and a second threshold S of the optical sensor 140 used to determine the removal of the aerosol-generating article 115. th2 .

[0168] In one embodiment, when the optical sensor 140 obtains a value greater than or equal to a first threshold S th1 When the sensor detects a value, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol-generating article 115 has been inserted into the cavity (e.g., Figure 11 In cavity 110), and when the value is less than the second threshold S th2 When the sensor detects a value, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol-generating article 115 has been removed from the cavity 110.

[0169] For example, when the first sensed value S1 obtained by the optical sensor 140 is greater than the first threshold S th1 At that time, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol-generated article 115 is inserted into the cavity 110 at the first time point P1. Additionally, when the second sensing value S2 obtained by the optical sensor 140 is less than the second threshold S... th2 At that time, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol-generated item 115 at the second time point P2 has been removed from the cavity 110.

[0170] Figure 14a This is a diagram showing the state in which an aerosol-generating article is inserted into an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 14b This is a diagram showing the state in which the aerosol-generated article is removed from an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 14a and 14b Observed from the +z direction Figure 11 A diagram of an aerosol generating device 100. (In the description...) Figure 14a and Figure 14b In this case, descriptions corresponding to or similar to those given above may be omitted.

[0171] Reference Figure 14a and Figure 14b Optical sensors (e.g.) Figure 11 The optical sensor 140 may include a light emitting unit 1300 and a light receiving unit 1310, wherein the light emitting unit 1300 includes a light source and the light receiving unit 1310 receives reflected light signals. Although Figure 14a and Figure 14b The light emitting portion 1300 and the light receiving portion 1310 of the optical sensor 140 are shown to be arranged around at least one region of the cavity 110, but the light emitting portion 1300 and the light receiving portion 1310 are not limited thereto.

[0172] In one embodiment, when a preset amount of light is emitted from the light emitting unit 1300 of the optical sensor 140, the processor (e.g., Figure 11 The processor 120 can obtain the amount (sensing value) of reflected light input to the light receiver 1310 based on the output signal of the light receiver 1310.

[0173] according to Figure 14a In one embodiment, the light emitting part 1300 of the optical sensor 140 can emit a preset amount of light toward the interior of the cavity 110, and the light receiving part 1310 of the optical sensor 140 can receive a portion of the reflected light 1405 reflected from the pollutant 1400 and a portion of the reflected light 1410 reflected from the aerosol generating article 115 in the emitted light.

[0174] In this case, since the contaminant 1400 is adjacent to the optical sensor 140, the output signal of the light receiver 1310 caused by a portion of the reflected light 1405 reflected from the contaminant 1400 can be substantially greater than the output signal of the light receiver 1310 caused by a portion of the reflected light 1410 reflected from the aerosol generating article 115.

[0175] In one embodiment, when the output signal (e.g., output voltage) of the light receiver 1310 increases to a signal value greater than the existing maximum signal value and remains thereafter, the processor 120 may determine that the aerosol generating article 115 has been inserted into the cavity 110 from the outside and that a portion of the optical sensor 140 has been contaminated by foreign matter.

[0176] Reference Figure 14b In one embodiment, the light emitting part 1300 of the optical sensor 140 can emit a preset amount of light toward the interior of the cavity 110, and the light receiving part 1310 of the optical sensor 140 can receive a portion of the reflected light 1405 reflected from the contaminant 1400 in the emitted light.

[0177] In one embodiment, when the output signal (e.g., output voltage) of the light receiver 1310 decreases to a signal value greater than the existing minimum signal value and remains thereafter, the processor 120 may determine that the aerosol generating article 115 has been removed from the interior of the cavity 110 and a portion of the optical sensor 140 has been contaminated by foreign matter.

[0178] Figure 14c This is a graph showing the output signal of an optical sensor according to an embodiment, based on the insertion and removal of an article generated by an aerosol. More specifically, Figure 14c This is a graph showing the output signal of an optical sensor contaminated by external foreign objects.

[0179] In one embodiment, the processor (e.g., Figure 11 The processor 120 can be configured to use an optical sensor (e.g., Figure 11 The optical sensor 140) determines the aerosol-generating articles (e.g., Figure 11 Thresholds for insertion and removal of aerosol-generated items (115).

[0180] For example, the processor 120 may set a first threshold S for the optical sensor 140 used to determine the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 115. th1 and a second threshold S of the optical sensor 140 used to determine the removal of the aerosol-generating article 115. th2 .

[0181] In one embodiment, when the optical sensor 140 obtains a value greater than or equal to a first threshold S during the first time period 1420... th1 When the sensor detects a value, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol-generating article 115 has been inserted into the cavity (e.g., Figure 11 In cavity 110). Additionally, as the sensed value obtained by optical sensor 140 gradually decreases and in the second time period 1430, the sensed value obtained by optical sensor 140 is greater than or equal to the second threshold S. th2 When the sensor detects a value, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol generating article 115 has been removed from the cavity 110 and that a portion of the optical sensor 140 has been contaminated by foreign matter.

[0182] In one embodiment, the processor 120 may set a new first threshold S' based on the sensing values ​​of the optical sensor 140 in the first time period 1420 and the sensing values ​​of the optical sensor 140 in the second time period 1430. th1 and the new second threshold S' th2 .

[0183] For example, the processor 120 can detect the value sensed by the optical sensor 140 in the first time period 1420 and the first threshold S. th1 Set a new first threshold S' within the rangeth1 .

[0184] For example, processor 120 can convert the sensed value of optical sensor 140 in the second time period 1430 and the second threshold S th2 The difference between the two values ​​is added to the sensing value of the optical sensor 140 in the second time period 1430, and the resulting value is set as the new second threshold S'. th2 .

[0185] However, the processor 120 is used to set a new first threshold S' th1 and the new second threshold S' th2 The methods are not limited to this.

[0186] In one embodiment, when a new first threshold S' is obtained by optical sensor 140 during the third time period 1440, the threshold value is greater than or equal to the threshold value S'. th1 When the sensed value is obtained, the processor 120 can determine that the aerosol-generating article 115 is inserted into the cavity 110.

[0187] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for outputting user notifications from an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 15 Involving Figure 12 The operation following operation 1203 can omit descriptions that correspond to or are the same as or similar to the descriptions given above.

[0188] Reference Figure 15 processor (e.g.) Figure 11 The processor 120 may determine in operation 1501 whether the value obtained by subtracting the second sensing value from the first sensing value is less than a preset difference. In this disclosure, the "preset difference" may represent a reference value for the difference between the first sensing value and the second sensing value, which is used to determine whether internal cleaning is required due to contaminants accumulated near the optical sensor 140.

[0189] For example, according to optical sensors (e.g., Figure 11 The rate of increase of the second sense value of the accumulation of pollutant coating near the optical sensor 140 can be faster than the rate of increase of the first sense value.

[0190] As contaminants accumulate near the optical sensor 140, the optical sensor 140 can detect aerosol-generating articles (e.g., Figure 11 The field of view narrows due to the presence of the aerosol-generating article 115. Therefore, the second sensing value, which depends on the amount of pollutant, can increase gradually and rapidly, while the first sensing value, which depends on the field of view of the aerosol-generating article, can increase gradually and slowly.

[0191] In other words, because the rate of increase of the second sensing value is greater than the rate of increase of the first sensing value, the difference between the first sensing value and the second sensing value decreases over time (i.e., as the amount of pollutants increases).

[0192] According to one embodiment, when the difference between a first sensing value and a second sensing value that decreases over time is less than a preset difference, the processor 120 may output a notification via a user interface in operation 1503.

[0193] For example, when the difference between the first sensing value and the second sensing value is less than a preset difference, the processor 120 may determine that internal cleaning is required due to contaminants accumulated near the optical sensor 140.

[0194] Therefore, the processor 120 can output a notification instructing the aerosol generating device to be internally cleaned via a user interface (e.g., a haptic module, a display, a speaker, etc.).

[0195] When the value obtained by subtracting the second sensing value from the first sensing value is greater than or equal to a preset difference, the processor 120 may update the existing threshold to a new threshold in operation 1205.

[0196] Figure 16 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0197] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 18 and 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to... Figure 16 The internal structure shown is illustrated. In other words, those skilled in the art will understand that, based on the design of the aerosol generating device 1, the internal structure can be omitted. Figure 16 Some of the structures shown can be modified or new structures can be added.

[0198] Sensor 13 can detect the state of aerosol generating device 1 or the state around aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the detected information to control unit 12. Based on the detected information, control unit 12 can control aerosol generating device 1 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether stick S and / or cartridge 19 are inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0199] Sensor 13 may include at least one of temperature sensor 131, suction sensor 132, insertion detection sensor 133, reuse detection sensor 134, cartridge detection sensor 135, cap detection sensor 136, and motion detection sensor 137.

[0200] Temperature sensor 131 can detect the temperature at which the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated. The aerosol generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 itself may function as a temperature sensor.

[0201] Temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance value changes according to the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Temperature sensor 131 can be implemented using a thermistor, which is a component that utilizes the characteristic that resistance changes with temperature. In this case, temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element, as a signal corresponding to the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be constructed by a sensor that detects the resistance value of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. In this case, temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, as a signal corresponding to the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0202] Temperature sensor 131 may be arranged around power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of power supply 11. Temperature sensor 131 may be arranged adjacent to power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 may be attached to a surface of a battery that serves as power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board.

[0203] Temperature sensor 131 can be arranged inside the body 10 to detect the internal temperature of the body 10.

[0204] The suction sensor 132 can detect user suction based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The suction sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to suction. For example, the suction sensor 132 can be a pressure sensor. The suction sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 can correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The suction sensor 132 can be arranged corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0205] Insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of rod S. Insertion detection sensor 133 can detect signal changes caused by the insertion and / or removal of rod S. Insertion detection sensor 133 can be disposed around the insertion space. Insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of rod S based on changes in the dielectric constant within the insertion space. For example, insertion detection sensor 133 can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0206] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be arranged adjacent to each other in a spatial arrangement. For example, when the magnetic field around the coil through which current flows changes, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current.

[0207] An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0208] A capacitive sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the environmental electromagnetic characteristics (e.g., the capacitance around the conductor). For example, when a rod S comprising a metal package is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic characteristics around the conductor may change due to the package of the rod S.

[0209] The reusability detection sensor 134 can detect whether the rod S is reused. The reusability detection sensor 134 can be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the rod S. The color sensor can also detect the color of a portion of the packaging surrounding the rod S. The color sensor can detect the value of an optical property corresponding to the color of the object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property can be the wavelength of light. The color sensor can be implemented as the same component as the proximity sensor, or it can be implemented as a separate component distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0210] At least a portion of the packaging comprising the stick S may have a color that changes due to the aerosol. A reusable detection sensor 134 may be arranged to correspond to the position of at least a portion of the packaging whose color has changed due to the aerosol when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the user uses the stick S, the color of at least a portion of the packaging may be a first color. At this time, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the packaging is wetted by the aerosol, causing the color of at least a portion of the packaging to change to a second color. Furthermore, after the color of at least a portion of the packaging changes from the first color to the second color, the color may remain at the second color.

[0211] The cartridge detection sensor 135 can detect the installation and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 can be implemented by an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC) utilizing the Hall effect, etc.

[0212] The cap detection sensor 136 can detect the installation and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is removed from the body 10, the cartridge 19 covered by the cap and a portion of the body 10 may be exposed. The cap detection sensor 136 may be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0213] The motion detection sensor 137 can detect the motion of the aerosol generating device. The motion detection sensor 137 can be implemented as at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope sensor.

[0214] In addition to the sensors 131 to 137 described above, sensor 13 may also include at least one of a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. Those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name; therefore, a detailed description is omitted.

[0215] The output unit 14 can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 and provide that information to the user. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the display 141, the tactile unit 142, and the sound output unit 143. When the display 141 and the touchpad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display 141 can also be used as an input device in addition to being an output device.

[0216] Display 141 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 can refer to various types of information, such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the stick S and / or cartridge 19, the installation / removal status of the cap, or the status where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., an abnormal object is detected), and display 141 can output the above information to an external location. For example, display 141 can be in the form of an LED light-emitting device. For example, display 141 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0217] The tactile unit 142 can provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user in a tactile manner by converting electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimulation. For example, when the initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 for a set time, the tactile unit 142 can generate a vibration corresponding to the completion of the initial preheating. The tactile unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0218] The sound output unit 143 can provide users with information about the aerosol generating device 1 through auditory means. For example, the sound output unit 143 can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0219] Power source 11 provides electricity for operating the aerosol generating device 1. Power source 11 supplies power to heat the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Additionally, power source 11 supplies power required for the operation of other components within the aerosol generating device 1, such as the sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. Power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0220] Although not in Figure 16 As shown, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0221] The power supply protection circuit can disconnect the electrical path of power supply 11 according to preset conditions. For example, when the voltage level of power supply 11 is a first voltage corresponding to overcharging or greater, the power supply protection circuit can disconnect the electrical path of power supply 11. For example, when the voltage level of power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharging, the power supply protection circuit can disconnect the electrical path of power supply 11.

[0222] Heater 18 can be powered by power supply 11 and heats the medium or aerosol-generating substance within rod S. Although Figure 16 As not shown, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the power source 11 and supplies the converted power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Additionally, when the aerosol generating apparatus 1 generates aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power from the power source 11 to the AC power.

[0223] The control unit 12, sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17 can be powered by the power supply 11 to perform their functions. Although not explicitly stated... Figure 16As shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a power conversion circuit that converts the power of the power supply 11 and supplies it to the various components, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit. Furthermore, although... Figure 16 Although not shown, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low-pass filter prevents high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13 (such as insertion detection sensor 133, etc.).

[0224] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be formed of any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nickel-chromium alloys, etc., but are not limited thereto. In addition, heater 18 may be implemented by a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which conductive tracks are arranged, a ceramic heating element, etc., but are not limited thereto.

[0225] In another embodiment, heater 18 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, heater 18 may include an induction heating element that generates heat by a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating substance.

[0226] The input unit 15 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 can be a touch panel. The touch panel can include at least one touch sensor for detecting touch. For example, the touch sensor can include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, an ultrasonic touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc.

[0227] The display 141 and the touch panel can be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be embedded within the display 141 (on-cell type or in-cell type). Alternatively, the touch panel can be attached to the display 141 panel (add-on type).

[0228] On the other hand, the input unit 15 may include buttons, a keypad, a dome switch, a rotary dial, a scroll wheel switch, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0229] The memory 17 can be hardware used to store various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed by the control unit 12. The memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card micro, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory 17 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0230] The communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0231] A short-range wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth communication units, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication units, Near Field Communication units, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication units, Zigbee communication units, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication units, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication units, Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication units, Ant+ communication units, etc.

[0232] The wireless communications unit may include, but is not limited to, cellular network communications, internet communications, computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communications, etc.

[0233] Although not in Figure 16 As shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a connection interface such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, and can be connected to other external devices via such a connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0234] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the processor may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0235] The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the power supply from the power source 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0236] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power source 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, heater 18, or induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented using a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit.

[0237] The control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit can be an inverter that converts the DC power output from the power source 11 into AC power. For example, the inverter can be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit containing multiple switching elements.

[0238] The control unit 12 can turn on the switching element to supply power from the power source 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 can also turn off the switching element to cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 can regulate the current supplied from the power source 11 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulses input to the switching element.

[0239] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. A power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that reduces the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.

[0240] The control unit 12 can adjust the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit. When the switching element is continuously on, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit can be equivalent to the level of the voltage output from the power supply 11. The duty cycle of the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 11. The level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit can decrease as the duty cycle used for the on / off operation of the switching element decreases. The heater 18 can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0241] The control unit 12 can control the power supply of the heater 18 by using at least one of pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID) methods.

[0242] For example, the control unit 12 can control the current pulses supplied to the heater 18 to have a predetermined frequency and duty cycle using PWM. The control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses.

[0243] For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature to be controlled based on the temperature curve. The control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method based on the difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0244] The control unit 12 can prevent the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a preset limit temperature, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to stop supplying power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a preset limit temperature, the control unit 12 can reduce the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a predetermined percentage. For example, if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge 19 has been depleted and cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24.

[0245] The control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can confirm the temperature of the power supply 11 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0246] When the power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generating device 1, the control unit 12 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a first limit temperature, which is a reference for preventing the power supply 11 from charging. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can control the power supply 11 to charge based on a preset charging current. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can prevent the power supply 11 from charging.

[0247] When the power supply to the aerosol generating device 1 is turned on, the control unit 12 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a second limit temperature, which is a reference temperature to prevent the power supply 11 from discharging. The control unit 12 can control the use of the power stored in the power supply 11 when the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the second limit temperature. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can stop using the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0248] The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power source 11 based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power source 11.

[0249] The control unit 12 can determine whether the detection rod S is inserted into the insertion space by using the insertion detection sensor 133. The control unit 12 can determine that the rod S is inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 133. When the detection rod S is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0250] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space via the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, when the temperature of the heater 18 is above a limit temperature, or when the temperature change gradient of the heater 18 is above a set gradient, the control unit 12 can determine that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space. When it is determined that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0251] The control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 18 based on the state of the rod S detected by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can confirm the level range of the signal level, including that of the capacitive sensor, based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can determine the amount of moisture in the rod S based on the confirmed level range.

[0252] When the rod S is in an over-wet state, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time to the heater 18 to increase the preheating time of the rod S compared to the normal state.

[0253] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space has been reused by the reuse detection sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range including the first color, and determine that the stick S has not been used when the sensed value is included in the first reference range. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor 134 with a second reference range including the second color, and determine that the stick S has been used when the sensed value is included in the second reference range. When it is determined that the stick S has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0254] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 has been attached and / or removed by the cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 has been attached or removed based on the sensing value of the signal from the cartridge detection sensor.

[0255] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 has been depleted. For example, the control unit 12 can apply electricity to preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period, and determine that the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 has been depleted when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 has been depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0256] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 can be used. For example, if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set in the cartridge 19 based on data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used. For example, if the total heating time of the heater 24 is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time or the total electrical power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than or equal to the preset maximum electrical power, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used.

[0257] The control unit 12 can determine the user's inhalation through the inhalation sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether an inhalation has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the inhalation sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the inhalation intensity based on the sensing value of the signal from the inhalation sensor 132. When the number of inhalations reaches the preset maximum number of inhalations, or when no inhalation is detected for a preset time or longer, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0258] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cap has been attached and / or removed by the cap detection sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cap has been attached and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal from the cap detection sensor.

[0259] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the detection results of the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can notify the user that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to terminate through at least one of the display 141, the tactile unit 142, and the sound output unit 143. For example, based on the determination that the stick S is not present in the insertion space, the control unit 12 can notify the user through the output unit 14. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user through the output unit 14 based on the determination that the cartridge 19 and / or the cap are not installed. For example, the control unit 12 can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 to the user through the output unit 14.

[0260] The control unit 12 can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of preset events. Events may include operations performed in the aerosol generating device 1 such as detecting the insertion of the stick S, initiating the heating of the stick S, detecting inhalation, terminating inhalation, detecting overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, detecting overvoltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, terminating the heating of the stick S, powering on / off the aerosol generating device 1, starting the charging of the power supply 11, detecting overcharging of the power supply 11, and terminating the charging of the power supply 11. The event history may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, when the preset event is the detection of the insertion of the stick S, the log data corresponding to this event may include data related to the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor 133, etc. For example, when the preset event is the detection of overheating of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data about the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the current flowing through cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, etc.

[0261] The control unit 12 can control the establishment of a communication link with an external device (such as a user's mobile terminal). When authentication data is received from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the authentication data may include data indicating that user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device is complete. The user can perform user authentication via the external device. The external device can determine the validity of user data based on the user's birthday, a unique identifier indicating the user, etc., and receive data regarding the usage rights of the aerosol generating device 1 from an external server. The external device can send data indicating that user authentication is complete to the aerosol generating device 1 based on the data regarding usage rights. When user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, when user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 can remove restrictions on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater 18.

[0262] The control unit 12 can transmit data about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 to the external device via a communication link. Based on the received status data, the external device can output information such as the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generating device 1 and the operating mode through its display.

[0263] An external device can transmit a location search request to the aerosol generating device 1 based on an input initiating a location search. When a location search request is received from the external device, the control unit 12 can control at least one output device to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibration in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 can output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0264] When firmware data is received from an external device, the control unit 12 can control the execution of a firmware update. The external device can verify the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether a new firmware version exists. When an input requesting firmware download is received, the external device can receive the new version firmware data and transmit the new version firmware data to the aerosol generating device 1. When the new version firmware data is received, the control unit 12 can control the execution of a firmware update for the aerosol generating device 1.

[0265] The control unit 12 can send data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing values ​​through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit 12 can perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve by using the learning model received from the server. The control unit 12 can store the sensing value data of at least one sensor 13, data for learning an artificial neural network (ANN), etc., in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 can store a database about the various components provided in the aerosol generating device 1 for learning an artificial neural network (ANN), as well as the weights and biases constituting the structure of the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 12 can generate at least one learning model for determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve by learning the data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, temperature curve, etc., stored in the memory 17. Any embodiment or other embodiment of the present disclosure described above is not exclusive or different from one another. The constituent elements or functions of some embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be used together or combined.

[0266] For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or figure and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or figure can be combined with each other. In other words, combinations are possible even if they are not directly described, unless it is stated that such combinations are not feasible.

[0267] The above detailed description should be considered exemplary in all respects and not construed as restrictive. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: The housing includes a cavity for containing articles that generate aerosols; An optical sensor detects the presence of an aerosol-generating article in the cavity based on a comparison between a sensed value and a threshold, wherein the threshold includes a first threshold and a second threshold. as well as The processor is electrically connected to the optical sensor. The processor is configured to: obtain a first sensing value of the optical sensor detected when the aerosol-generating article is inserted and a second sensing value of the optical sensor detected when the aerosol-generating article is removed, and update the threshold to a new threshold based on the first sensing value and the second sensing value.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is also configured to update the threshold to the new threshold based on a new first threshold that is less than the first sensed value and a new second threshold that is greater than the second sensed value.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The new first threshold is greater than the first threshold, and the new second threshold is greater than the second threshold.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The cigarette recognition sensor detects the presence of the aerosol-generating item in the cavity based on changes in electrical properties. The processor is further configured to: obtain a first sensing value of the optical sensor based on the insertion of the aerosol-generating article detected by the cigarette recognition sensor, and obtain a second sensing value of the optical sensor based on the removal of the aerosol-generating article detected by the cigarette recognition sensor.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The cigarette recognition sensor is an inductive sensor that detects changes in inductance.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is also configured to update the threshold to the new threshold when the second sensed value is obtained through the optical sensor.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a user interface. in, The processor is also configured to output a notification through the user interface when the value obtained by subtracting the second sensing value from the first sensing value is less than a preset difference.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The notification output through the user interface is an instruction to perform internal cleaning of the aerosol generating device.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is further configured to: determine the maximum value among a first plurality of sensing values ​​obtained within a preset time period starting from a time point when the sensing value obtained by the optical sensor increases as the first sensing value, and determine the minimum value among a second plurality of sensing values ​​obtained within a preset time period starting from a time point when the sensing value obtained by the optical sensor decreases as the second sensing value.

10. A method for operating an aerosol generating device, the method comprising the following steps: An optical sensor acquires a first sensing value detected upon insertion of the aerosol-generating article and a second sensing value detected upon removal of the aerosol-generating article. The optical sensor detects the presence of the aerosol-generating article in the cavity based on a comparison between the sensing values ​​and a threshold. The threshold is updated to a new threshold based on the first sensed value and the second sensed value.

11. The operating method according to claim 10, further comprising the step of updating the threshold to the new threshold based on a new first threshold less than the first sensed value and a new second threshold greater than the second sensed value.

12. The operating method according to claim 10, further comprising the following steps: The first sensing value of the optical sensor is obtained based on the insertion of the aerosol-generating article detected by the cigarette recognition sensor, the cigarette recognition sensor detecting the presence of the aerosol-generating article in the cavity based on changes in electrical properties; and The second sensing value of the optical sensor is obtained based on the removal of the aerosol-generating article detected by the cigarette recognition sensor.

13. The operating method according to claim 10, further comprising the step of: when the second sensing value is obtained through the optical sensor, updating the threshold to the new threshold.

14. The operation method according to claim 10, further comprising the step of: when the value obtained by subtracting the second sensing value from the first sensing value is less than a preset difference, outputting a notification through the user interface.

15. The operating method according to claim 10, further comprising the following steps: The first sensing value is determined as the maximum value among a first plurality of sensing values ​​obtained within a preset time period starting from the point when the sensing value obtained by the optical sensor increases; and The minimum value among a second plurality of sensing values ​​obtained within a preset time period starting from the point when the sensing value obtained by the optical sensor decreases is determined as the second sensing value.

Images