Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. The aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure comprises: a main body; a heater disposed in the main body and including a carbonaceous material; a temperature sensor for outputting a signal related to the temperature of the heater; a power source for supplying power to the heater; a heater driving circuit electrically connected to the heater and the power supply; and a control unit for controlling power supplied to the heater, in which the control unit determines a heating rate of the heater based on a signal received from the temperature sensor, and controls the heater driving circuit so as to cut off the power supplied to the heater based on the heating rate being equal to or greater than a preset rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] An aerosol generating device is a means of extracting specific components from a medium or substance by forming aerosols. This medium can contain multiple components. The substances contained in the medium can be multi-component flavoring substances. For example, the substances contained in the medium may include nicotine, herbal components, and / or coffee components. Recently, various studies have been conducted on aerosol generating devices.

[0003] Aerosol generating devices produce aerosols by heating the aerosol-generating material using a heater. A problem with traditional metal heaters made of copper, constantan, etc., is that they consume a significant amount of time and electricity to generate the heat needed to reach the temperature required for aerosol generation.

[0004] Compared to conventional metals, carbonaceous materials such as carbon nanotubes or graphene possess high thermal conductivity. If a heater made of carbonaceous materials is used in an aerosol generation device, it may only take a few seconds or less to generate heat to reach the temperature required for aerosol generation. However, because heaters made of carbonaceous materials exhibit a high rate of temperature increase, the current or voltage applied to the heater may increase dramatically, potentially destabilizing the power supply circuit. Furthermore, there is a problem that the heater may unnecessarily overheat above the required temperature. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] The purpose of this disclosure is to address the aforementioned problems and other issues.

[0007] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus that uses a heater made of carbonaceous material.

[0008] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus configured to control the power supplied to the heater according to the rate of temperature increase of the heater.

[0009] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus configured to drive a voltage applied to a heater in a negative manner.

[0010] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus configured to diffuse heat generated from a heater.

[0011] Technical solution

[0012] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the above and other objectives can be achieved by providing an aerosol generating apparatus comprising a main body, a heater disposed in the main body and including a carbonaceous material, a temperature sensor configured to output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the heater, a power supply configured to supply power to the heater, a heater drive circuit electrically connected to the heater and the power supply, and a controller configured to control the power supplied to the heater, wherein the controller determines the temperature increase rate of the heater based on the signal received from the temperature sensor, and when it is determined that the temperature increase rate is equal to or higher than a predetermined rate, the controller controls the heater drive circuit to interrupt the power supply to the heater.

[0013] Beneficial effects

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the time required to heat the heater can be reduced and user satisfaction can be improved due to the use of a heater made of carbonaceous material.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the power supplied to the heater is controlled according to the rate of temperature increase of the heater, the circuit can be prevented from becoming unstable due to a sharp increase in the rate of temperature increase of the heater.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the voltage applied to the heater is driven in a negative manner, overshoot of the applied voltage and inrush current can be reduced and stable operation of the circuit can be ensured.

[0017] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the heat diffusion section is disposed on the outside of the heater, the heat generated unevenly from the heater can be diffused and the dissipation of the heat generated from the heater to the outside of the heater can be reduced, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0018] Other applications of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications will be readily understood by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, it should be understood that detailed descriptions and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, are given by way of example only. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figures 1 to 4 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 5 This is a front perspective view of the heater of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows a front perspective view of the heaters, which are arranged in layers.

[0022] Figure 7 and Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the heater and the heat diffuser disposed thereon shown;

[0023] Figure 9 This is a circuit diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the heater heating control of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 11 This is a graph showing the heater heating control of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0026] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0027] In the following description, the embodiments disclosed herein will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or similar elements will be indicated by the same reference numerals even if they are shown in different drawings, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0028] In the following description, the suffixes “module” and “unit” are used for convenience of description only and do not have a distinguishing meaning or function.

[0029] Furthermore, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of those embodiments will be omitted where the known functions and configurations incorporated herein may make the subject matter of the embodiments disclosed herein quite unclear. Moreover, the accompanying drawings are provided merely to better understand the embodiments disclosed in this specification and are not intended to limit the technical ideas disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0030] It should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used in this document to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another.

[0031] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as "connected to" or "attached to" another component, it can be directly connected to or attached to the other component, or there may be intermediate components. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as "directly connected to" or "directly attached to" another component, there are no intermediate components.

[0032] As used in this article, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form should also include the plural form.

[0033] Throughout this specification, the orientation of the aerosol generating device and the feed cylinder can be defined based on an orthogonal coordinate system. In this orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device and the feed cylinder. Here, based on the origin, the +x-axis direction can be to the right, and the -x-axis direction can be to the left. The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device and the feed cylinder. Here, based on the origin, the +y-axis direction can be backward, and the -y-axis direction can be forward. The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device and the feed cylinder. Here, based on the origin, the +z-axis direction can be upward, and the -z-axis direction can be downward.

[0034] Figures 1 to 4 This is a diagram showing an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a controller 12, a sensor 13, a heater 18, or a cartridge 19. At least one of the power supply 11, controller 12, sensor 13, or heater 18 may be disposed within the body 10 of the aerosol generating device. The body 10 may define a space with an open top to allow insertion of a rod S, which is an aerosol generating article, into it. The space with the open top may be referred to as an insertion space 43. The insertion space 43 may be formed to be recessed into the interior of the body 10 to a predetermined depth, such that the rod S is at least partially inserted therein. The depth of the insertion space 43 may correspond to the length of the portion of the rod S containing 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 while holding the exposed upper end of the rod S in their mouth.

[0036] Heater 18 can heat rod S. Heater 18 can be disposed around the space into which rod S is inserted and can extend upward. For example, heater 18 can be formed in the shape of a tube including a cavity formed therein. Heater 18 can be disposed around insertion space 43. Heater 18 can be disposed around at least a portion of insertion space 43. Heater 18 can heat insertion space 43 or rod S inserted into insertion space 43. Heater 18 can include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0037] For example, heater 18 may be a resistance heater. For example, heater 18 may include a conductive rail and can be heated when current flows through it. Heater 18 may be electrically connected to power supply 11. Heater 18 can directly generate heat using the current received from power supply 11.

[0038] For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an induction coil surrounding a heater 18. This induction coil can cause the heater 18 to generate heat. The heater 18, acting as a susceptor, can generate heat using a magnetic field generated by an alternating current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field can pass through the heater 18 to generate eddy currents within it. These currents can then cause the heater 18 to generate heat.

[0039] Simultaneously, the receptor can be included in rod S. The receptor in rod S can generate heat using the magnetic field generated by the alternating current flowing through the induction coil.

[0040] The container 19 may contain a liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel-like aerosol-generating substance. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid comprising tobacco materials (including volatile tobacco flavor components) or a liquid comprising non-tobacco materials.

[0041] The barrel 19 can be integrally formed with the body 10, or it can be detachably connected to the body 10.

[0042] For example, refer to Figure 1 The barrel 19 can be integrally formed with the main body 10 and can be connected to the insertion space 43 through the airflow channel CN.

[0043] For example, refer to Figure 2 A space may be defined on one side of the body 10, and the barrel 19 may be installed in the body 10 such that at least a portion of the barrel 19 is inserted into the space defined on one side of the body 10. An airflow channel CN ​​may be defined by a portion of the barrel 19 and / or a portion of the body 10, and the barrel 19 may communicate with the insertion space 43 through the airflow channel CN.

[0044] The body 10 can be configured to allow external air to be introduced into the body 10 when the barrel 19 is inserted therein. In this case, the external air introduced into the body 10 can pass through the barrel 19 to enter the user's mouth.

[0045] The barrel 19 may include a storage section C0 containing aerosol-generating material and / or a heater 24 configured to heat the aerosol-generating material in the storage section C0. The storage section C0 may be referred to as a container. At least a portion of a liquid delivery element impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating material may be disposed in the storage section C0. Here, the liquid delivery element may include a core, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed as a coil-shaped structure wound around the liquid delivery element, or formed as a structure in contact with one side of the liquid delivery element. The heater 24 may be referred to as a barrel heater 24.

[0046] The barrel 19 can generate an aerosol. An aerosol can be generated when the liquid delivery element is heated by the barrel heater 24. An aerosol can also be generated by heating the rod S using heater 18. As the aerosol generated by the barrel heater 24 and heater 18 passes through the rod S, the aerosol can mix with the tobacco material, and the aerosol mixed with the tobacco material can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the rod S.

[0047] The aerosol generating device 1 may only have a barrel heater 24, and the main body 10 may not have a heater 18. In this case, when the aerosol generated by the barrel heater 24 passes through the rod S, the aerosol can mix with the tobacco material, and the aerosol mixed with the tobacco material can be inhaled into the user's mouth.

[0048] The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include an upper housing (not shown). The upper housing may be detachably attached to the body 10 to cover at least a portion of the barrel 19 attached to the body 10. The rod S may be inserted into the body 10 through the upper housing.

[0049] Power source 11 can supply power to enable the components of the aerosol generating apparatus to operate. Power source 11 may be referred to as a battery. Power source 11 can supply power to at least one of the controller 12, sensor 13, barrel heater 24, or heater 18. If the aerosol generating apparatus 1 includes an induction coil, power source 11 can supply power to the induction coil.

[0050] Controller 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating apparatus. Controller 12 can be mounted on a printed circuit board. Controller 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, heater 18, or cylinder 19. Controller 12 can control the operation of displays, motors, etc., installed in the aerosol generating apparatus. Controller 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating apparatus and determine whether the aerosol generating apparatus is in an operable state.

[0051] The controller 12 can analyze the detection results of the sensor 13 and control subsequent processes. For example, the controller 12 can control the power supplied to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the detection results of the sensor 13, causing the operation of the barrel heater 24 or heater 18 to start or stop. For example, the controller 12 can control the amount of electricity supplied to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 and the power supply time based on the detection results of the sensor 13, so that the barrel heater 24 or heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0052] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a suction sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a barrel detection sensor, or an upper housing detection sensor. For example, sensor 13 may detect at least one of the temperature of heater 18, the temperature of power supply 11, or the internal / external temperature of body 10. For example, sensor 13 may detect user suction. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether rod S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether the barrel is installed. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether the upper housing is installed.

[0053] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to the embodiment may include at least one of a power supply 11, a controller 12, a sensor 13, or a heater 18. At least one of the power supply 11, controller 12, sensor 13, or heater 18 may be disposed in the main body 10 of the aerosol generating apparatus. (The remaining text is omitted.) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The configuration of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same as that described in detail.

[0054] Heater 18 can heat rod S. Heater 18 can be disposed around the space into which rod S is inserted and can extend upward. For example, heater 18 can be formed in the shape of a tube including a cavity formed therein. Heater 18 can be disposed around insertion space 43. Heater 18 can be disposed around at least a portion of insertion space 43. Heater 18 can heat insertion space 43 or rod S inserted into insertion space 43. Heater 18 can include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0055] For example, refer to Figure 3 Heater 18 may be a resistance heater. For example, heater 18 may include a conductive rail and be heated when current flows through the conductive rail. Heater 18 may be electrically connected to power supply 11. Heater 18 may directly generate heat using the current received from power supply 11.

[0056] For example, refer to Figure 4 The aerosol generating apparatus may include an induction coil 181 surrounding a heater 18. The induction coil 181 can cause the heater 18 to generate heat. The heater 18, acting as a sensor, can generate heat using a magnetic field generated by an alternating current flowing through the induction coil 181. The magnetic field can pass through the heater 18 to generate eddy currents within it. These currents can then cause the heater 18 to generate heat.

[0057] Meanwhile, the sensor can be included in the rod S, and the sensor in the rod S can generate heat using the magnetic field generated by the alternating current flowing through the induction coil 181.

[0058] The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the controller 12, the sensor 13, or the heater 18. If the aerosol generating device 1 includes an induction coil 181, the power supply 11 can supply power to the induction coil 181.

[0059] The controller 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11 or the sensor 13. The controller 12 can analyze the detection results of the sensor 13 and control subsequent processes. For example, the controller 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 based on the detection results of the sensor 13, causing the operation of the heater 18 to begin or end. For example, the controller 12 can control the amount of electricity supplied to the heater 18 and the power supply time based on the detection results of the sensor 13, causing the heater 18 to be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0060] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a suction sensor, or an insertion detection sensor. For example, sensor 13 may detect at least one of the temperature of heater 18, the temperature of power supply 11, or the internal / external temperature of body 10. For example, sensor 13 may detect user suction. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether rod S is inserted into insertion space 43.

[0061] Figure 5 This is a front perspective view of the heater of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows a front perspective view of the heaters, with each layer unfolded. Figure 7 and Figure 8 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the heater and the heat diffuser disposed thereon.

[0062] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The heater 18 can be formed as an elongated tube or cylinder including a cavity formed therein. The heater 18 can be disposed within the body 10 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The heater 18 can surround the insertion space 43 in the body 10 (see...). Figures 1 to 4 Heater 18 can heat insertion space 43 or rod S inserted into insertion space 43. Heater 18 may include two ends 182 and 183 electrically connected to heater drive circuit 200 (see...). Figure 9 ).

[0063] The heater 18 may comprise a carbonaceous material. This carbonaceous material may comprise at least one of graphene or carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Graphene and carbon nanotubes have high thermal and electrical conductivity. Therefore, the heater 18 containing graphene and / or carbon nanotubes has high heating efficiency, and the temperature of the heater 18 can be rapidly increased. Furthermore, graphene and carbon nanotubes are lightweight and highly flexible, thus enabling the production of a lightweight heater 18 and facilitating its fabrication.

[0064] The heater 18 may include a carbon layer 184 containing carbonaceous material, and may include a first film 186 and a second film 187 respectively in contact with two surfaces of the carbon layer 184. The carbon layer may be referred to as a graphene layer or a carbon nanolayer.

[0065] The carbon layer 184 can be fabricated using at least one of chemical vapor deposition, arc discharge, laser deposition, vapor phase growth, or flame synthesis.

[0066] Conductive patterns 185 may be formed on carbon layer 184. Conductive patterns 185 may include two patterns spaced apart from each other. A first pattern 1851 of conductive patterns 185 may be connected at one end to an end 182 of heater 18. This end of heater 18 may be referred to as a first terminal. The first pattern 1851 may include a first base pattern 1851a connected to the first terminal 182 and extending in one direction. The first pattern 1851 may include a plurality of first extension patterns 1851b that extend from the first base pattern 1851a in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the first base pattern and are spaced apart from each other.

[0067] The second pattern 1852 of the conductive pattern 185 can be connected to the other end 183 of the heater 18. The other end of the heater 18 can be referred to as the second terminal. The second pattern 1852 may include a second base pattern 1852a that is connected to the second terminal 183 and extends in one direction. The second pattern 1852 may include a plurality of second extension patterns 1852b that extend from the second base pattern 1852a in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the second base pattern and are spaced apart from each other.

[0068] The plurality of first extension patterns 1851b and the plurality of second extension patterns 1852b can be alternately arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the extension directions of the first base pattern and the second base pattern. The spacing between the plurality of first extension patterns 1851b and the plurality of second extension patterns 1852b along the extension directions of the first base pattern and the second base pattern can be set to be uniform. However, the shape and arrangement of the plurality of first extension patterns 1851b and the plurality of second extension patterns 1852b are not limited thereto. Various shapes and arrangements can be applied to the plurality of first extension patterns 1851b and the plurality of second extension patterns 1852b, as long as these patterns are spaced apart from each other.

[0069] If a voltage is applied to the first pattern 1851 and the second pattern 1852, the carbon layer 184 can generate heat in response to the difference between the voltages applied to the first pattern 1851 and the second pattern 1852.

[0070] The first membrane 186 can be configured to contact one surface of the carbon layer 184, and the second membrane 187 can be configured to contact the other surface of the carbon layer 184. The first membrane 186, the carbon layer 184, and the second membrane 187 can be stacked in this order. The first membrane 186 and the second membrane 187 can isolate the carbon layer 184 from the outside and can protect the carbon layer 184.

[0071] The first membrane 186 and the second membrane 187 can be polyimide membranes. However, the types of the first membrane 186 and the second membrane 187 are not limited to this.

[0072] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The heat diffuser 188 may be disposed on the outside of the heater 18. The heat diffuser 188 may surround at least a portion of the tubular or cylindrical heater 18. The heat diffuser 188 may contact at least a portion of the heater 18.

[0073] For example, refer to Figure 7The heat diffuser 188 may surround the outer side of the heater 18. The heat diffuser 188 may be a hollow graphite sheet. The graphite sheet may surround the outer side of the heater 18. The graphite sheet may be configured to contact the second membrane 187 of the heater 18 and may surround the outer side of the second membrane 187.

[0074] For example, refer to Figure 8 A heat diffuser 188 may surround at least a portion of the outer side of the heater 18. Multiple heat diffusers 188 may be provided. The heat diffusers 188 may be spaced apart from each other along the periphery of the heater 18 and may contact at least a portion of the outer side of the heater 18. The heat diffuser 188 may be a vacuum tube or a heat pipe. The vacuum tube may include an externally sealed internal space. The internal space in the vacuum tube may be under vacuum. The heat pipe may include an externally sealed internal space. A heat-transferring material may be contained within the internal space of the heat pipe.

[0075] Since the heat diffuser 188 is configured to contact the cylindrical heater 18 while surrounding it, the heat generated from the heater 18 can be diffused uniformly. Furthermore, the dissipation of heat generated from the heater 18 to the outside of the heater 18 can be reduced, and the heat generated from the heater 18 can be guided into the interior of the heater 18.

[0076] Therefore, the heating efficiency of heater 18 can be improved.

[0077] Figure 9 This is a circuit diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] Reference Figure 9 The aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a controller 12, a heater 18, a temperature sensor 131, or a heater driving circuit 200.

[0079] Heater 18 may be disposed within the main body 10. Heater 18 may receive power from power source 11 to heat insertion space 43 and / or rod S inserted into insertion space 43. Heater 18 may have the features described above. Figures 5 to 7 Features of the heater 18.

[0080] Temperature sensor 131 can detect the temperature to which heater 18 is heated. Temperature sensor 131 can be positioned adjacent to or in contact with heater 18. Temperature sensor 131 can also be a sensor separately positioned from heater 18. However, heater 18 itself can perform the function of a temperature sensor.

[0081] Temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of heater 18. For example, temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to a change in the temperature of heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor can be implemented as a thermistor, which is an element characterized by its resistance changing with temperature. Temperature sensor 131 can be implemented as a negative temperature coefficient thermistor. 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 heater 18. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be configured to detect the resistance value of heater 18. In this case, temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of heater 18.

[0082] Power supply 11 can supply power to heater 18. Power supply 11 can supply power to heater 18 under the control of controller 12.

[0083] The heater drive circuit 200 can be electrically connected to the heater 18 and the power supply 11. Under the control of the controller 12, the heater drive circuit 200 can supply power from the power supply 11 to the heater 18.

[0084] The heater drive circuit 200 may include a first circuit 210 and a second circuit 220. The heater drive circuit 200 may apply voltage and / or current to the two ends 182 and 183 of the heater 18 through the first circuit 210 and the second circuit 220, respectively.

[0085] The first circuit 210 can be electrically connected to end 182 of the heater 18. The first circuit 210 can apply a first voltage Va to end 182 of the heater 18. The first voltage Va can be a voltage of a predetermined magnitude. For example, the first voltage Va can be a voltage of a magnitude corresponding to the voltage output from the power supply 11.

[0086] The first circuit 210 may include a first capacitor C1 (211) electrically connected to the output terminal of the power supply 11. The first capacitor C1 (211) may be connected at a first node N1 to the end 182 of the heater 18 and the output terminal of the power supply 11, and may also be electrically connected between the first node N1 and ground GND. The first capacitor C1 (211) may minimize variations in the first voltage Va applied to the end 182 of the heater 18, thereby stably applying the first voltage Va to the end 182 of the heater 18. Although not shown in the figure, a resistor and / or fuse may be electrically connected between the first node N1 and the output terminal of the power supply 11 or between the first node N1 and the end 182 of the heater 18.

[0087] The second circuit 220 can be electrically connected to the other end 183 of the heater 18. The second circuit 220 can apply a second voltage Vb to the other end 183 of the heater 18. The second voltage Vb can be a voltage with a variable magnitude. For example, the second voltage Vb can be higher than or equal to 0V and lower than or equal to the first voltage Va. For example, the second voltage Vb can be 0V or the first voltage Va.

[0088] The second circuit 220 may include a second capacitor C2 (221) electrically connected to the output terminal of the power supply 11. The second capacitor C2 (221) may be connected at the second node N2 to the output terminal of the power supply 11 and the first resistor R1 (222), and may be electrically connected between the second node N2 and ground GND. The second capacitor C2 (221) may minimize voltage variations applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18, thereby ensuring a stable voltage application to the other end 183 of the heater 18. Although not shown in the figure, a resistor and / or fuse may be electrically connected between the second node N2 and the output terminal of the power supply 11.

[0089] The first resistor R1 (222) can be electrically connected between the second node N2 and the third node N3. The first resistor R1 (222) can be electrically connected between the output terminal of the power supply 11 and the other end 183 of the heater 18. The switch SW (223) can be electrically connected to the first resistor R1 (222). The switch SW (223) can be electrically connected between the third node N3 and ground GND.

[0090] The switch SW (223) can perform an on / off operation in response to a control signal received from the controller 12. The switch SW (223) can be referred to as the first switch. The first switch SW (223) can include at least one switching element. The switching element can be implemented as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), etc.

[0091] If the third node N3 and ground GND are electrically connected or short-circuited to each other through the first switch SW (223), a voltage of approximately 0V can be applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18. If the third node N3 and ground GND are not electrically connected to each other, or an open circuit is formed between them through the first switch SW (223), a first voltage Va can be applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18.

[0092] The second circuit 220 may include a second switch in place of the first resistor R1 (222). The second switch may be electrically connected between the second node N2 and the third node N3. The second switch may be electrically connected between the output terminal of the power supply 11 and the other end 183 of the heater 18. The first switch SW (223) may be electrically connected to the second switch. The first switch SW (223) may be electrically connected between the third node N3 and ground GND. The second switch may perform an on / off operation in response to a control signal received from the controller 12. The second switch may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), etc.

[0093] The second node N2 and the third node N3 may or may not be electrically connected to each other via the second switch. The second switch may operate complementaryly to the first switch SW (223). That is, if the first switch SW (223) is turned on, the second switch may be turned off, and if the first switch SW (223) is turned off, the second switch may be turned on. Through the complementary operation of the first switch SW (223) and the second switch, a 0V voltage or a first voltage Va can be applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18.

[0094] Although not shown in the figures, a power conversion circuit may be additionally provided between the heater drive circuit 200 and the power supply 11. This power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented as a buck converter, boost converter, or buck-boost converter that converts the voltage output from the power supply 11. The voltage output from the power conversion circuit can be applied to a first node N1 of the first circuit 210 and a second node N2 of the second circuit 220. In this case, the first voltage Va applied to end 182 of the heater 18 can be a voltage corresponding to the magnitude of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit, while the second voltage Vb applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18 can be 0V or the first voltage Va.

[0095] Controller 12 can control heater drive circuit 200 to control the power supplied to heater 18. Controller 12 can calculate or determine the temperature and temperature increase rate of heater 18 based on signals received from temperature sensor 131. Controller 12 can control the power supplied to heater 18 based on the calculated or determined temperature and / or temperature increase rate of heater 18, or it can interrupt the power supply to heater 18. The control of heater drive circuit 200 by controller 12 will be described in detail later.

[0096] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the heater heating control of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 11This is a graph showing the heater heating control of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The controller 12 can control the heater drive circuit 200 to supply power to the heater 18 (S1010). The controller 12 can control the first switch SW (223) of the heater drive circuit 200 to change the second voltage Vb applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18. As described above, the second voltage Vb can be 0V or the first voltage Va. The controller 12 can use a pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme to control the power supplied to the heater 18. The controller 12 can perform control such that pulses with a predetermined frequency and duty cycle are supplied to the heater 18. The controller 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the pulses.

[0098] Reference Figure 11 The heater voltage Vh applied across the heater 18 can be defined as the difference between a first voltage Va applied to end 182 of the heater 18 and a second voltage Vb applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18. With a first voltage Va of a predetermined value V1 applied to end 182 of the heater 18, if the second voltage Vb applied to the other end 183 has the same value as the first voltage Va, the heater voltage Vh can be approximately 0V; and if the second voltage Vb applied to the other end 183 is 0V, the heater voltage Vh can have a value corresponding to the value V1 of the first voltage Va. That is, if a first voltage Va is applied across the heater 18, current may not flow through the heater 18, and therefore the heater 18 may not be heated. If a voltage of 0V is applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18, current can flow through the heater 18, and therefore the heater 18 can be heated. This method of driving the heater 18 can be called negative drive control.

[0099] The controller 12 can control the first switch SW (223) of the heater drive circuit 200 to adjust the frequency and / or duty cycle of the voltage applied to the heater 18. According to the drive control according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, current can flow through the heater 18 when the voltage applied to the other end 183 of the heater 18 changes from a high voltage (V1) to a low voltage (0V). When the voltage applied to the heater 18 changes from a high voltage (V1) to a low voltage (0V), voltage overshoot or undershoot can be reduced compared to when the voltage applied to the heater 18 changes from a low voltage (0V) to a high voltage (V1). Furthermore, the generation of inrush current in the circuit can be reduced.

[0100] Therefore, the heater drive circuit can operate stably.

[0101] Refer again Figure 10 The controller 12 can receive a signal output from the temperature sensor 131 (S1020). The controller 12 can calculate or determine the temperature and temperature increase rate of the heater 18 based on the signal received from the temperature sensor 131 (S1030). The controller 12 can calculate or determine the temperature of the heater 18 corresponding to the signal from the temperature sensor 131 based on information in a lookup table (LUT) stored in the memory 17 (see [link to memory description]). Figure 12 The controller 12 can calculate or determine the temperature of the heater 18 at each point in time, and can calculate or determine the temperature change over time, thereby calculating the rate of temperature increase of the heater 18.

[0102] The controller 12 can compare the temperature of the heater 18 with a reference temperature (S1040). When it is determined that the temperature of the heater 18 is equal to or higher than the reference temperature, the controller 12 can interrupt the power supply to the heater 18 (S1050). For example, the controller 12 can control the first switch SW (223) to apply a voltage with the same magnitude as the first voltage Va to the other end 183 of the heater 18.

[0103] When the temperature of heater 18 is determined to be lower than a reference temperature, controller 12 can compare the rate of temperature increase of heater 18 with the reference rate (S1060). When the rate of temperature increase of heater 18 is determined to be equal to or higher than the reference rate, controller 12 can interrupt the power supply to heater 18 (S1050). For example, controller 12 can control the first switch SW (223) to apply a voltage with the same magnitude as the first voltage Va to the other end 183 of heater 18.

[0104] When it is determined that the temperature increase rate of heater 18 is lower than a reference rate, controller 12 can determine the duty cycle based on the temperature increase rate (S1070). For example, controller 12 can set the duty cycle to be smaller as the temperature increase rate increases. That is, controller 12 can set the duty cycle to be inversely proportional to the magnitude of the temperature increase rate. Controller 12 can control the operation of the first switch SW (223) based on the determined duty cycle (S1010).

[0105] Controller 12 can determine the duty cycle to be equal to or less than a predetermined level. Although controller 12 determines the duty cycle based on the temperature increase rate of heater 18, controller 12 can determine the duty cycle to be equal to or less than 20%. Heaters made of carbonaceous materials such as graphene or carbon nanofibers can have a much higher temperature increase rate than conventional metal heaters. Controller 12 can set the duty cycle of heater 18 to be equal to or less than 20% to prevent the circuit from becoming unstable due to a sharp increase in the temperature increase rate of heater 18.

[0106] Therefore, the heater drive circuit can be driven stably, and the durability degradation and lifespan reduction of the heater and / or heater drive circuit due to high heat generation can be minimized.

[0107] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply 11, a controller 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and one or more heaters 18 and 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to... Figure 12 The structure shown is correct. In other words, those skilled in the art should understand that, based on the design of the aerosol generating device 1, the following can be omitted. Figure 12 Some of the components shown are available, or new components can be added.

[0109] Sensor 13 can detect the state of aerosol generating device 1 or the state around aerosol generating device 1, and can transmit information about the detected state to controller 12. Based on the information about the detected state, controller 12 can control aerosol generating device 1 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18, smoke restriction, determining whether to insert rod S and / or barrel 19, and notification display.

[0110] Sensor 13 may include at least one of temperature sensor 131, suction sensor 132, insertion detection sensor 133, reuse detection sensor 134, barrel detection sensor 135, upper housing detection sensor 136, movement detection sensor 137, or humidity sensor 138.

[0111] Temperature sensor 131 can detect the temperature to which the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 is heated. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a separate temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18, or the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 itself may be used as a temperature sensor.

[0112] Temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of barrel 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 barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18. The temperature sensor can be implemented as a thermistor, which is an element characterized by its resistance changing with temperature. In this case, temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as information corresponding to the temperature of barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be configured to detect the resistance value of barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18. In this case, temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0113] Temperature sensor 131 can be disposed around power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of power supply 11. Temperature sensor 131 can be disposed adjacent to power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be attached to a surface of the battery that serves as power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board.

[0114] Temperature sensor 131 can be disposed in the main body 10 to detect the internal temperature of the main body 10.

[0115] 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 supply gas flows. The suction sensor 132 can be positioned at a location corresponding to the airflow path through which the supply gas flows in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0116] The rod detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the rod S. The rod detection sensor may be referred to as an insertion detection sensor. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect signal changes caused by the insertion and / or removal of the rod S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can be mounted around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the rod S based on changes in the dielectric constant within the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0117] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. For example, if the magnetic field around the coil through which current flows changes, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil will 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.

[0118] 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 a coil.

[0119] A capacitive sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor may be positioned adjacent to an insertion space. The capacitive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic characteristics of the surrounding environment, such as the capacitance around the conductor. For example, if a rod S comprising a metal package is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic characteristics around the conductor may be altered due to the package of the rod S.

[0120] The reuse detection sensor 134 can detect whether the stick S is being reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 can be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the stick S. The color sensor can detect the color of the portion of the packaging surrounding the outside of the stick S. The color sensor can detect an optical characteristic value corresponding to the color of the object based on light reflected from the object. For example, this optical characteristic can be the wavelength of light. The color sensor can be implemented as a component integrated with a proximity sensor, or it can be implemented as a component separately from the proximity sensor.

[0121] At least a portion of the packaging material constituting the stick S may change color due to aerosol. The detection sensor 134 can be positioned corresponding to the location where at least a portion of the packaging material changes color due to 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 material may be a first color. In this case, when the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the packaging material may become wet due to the aerosol, and therefore, the color of at least a portion of the packaging material may change to a second color. After changing from the first color to the second color, the color of at least a portion of the packaging material may remain at the second color.

[0122] The barrel detection sensor 135 can detect the installation and / or removal of the barrel 19. The barrel detection sensor 135 can be implemented as an induction-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor using the Hall effect (or Hall IC), etc.

[0123] The upper housing detection sensor 136 can detect the installation and / or removal of the upper housing. When the upper housing is separated from the body 10, the portions of the barrel 19 and the body 10 that were previously covered by the upper housing can be exposed to the outside. The upper housing detection sensor 136 can be implemented as a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (or Hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0124] The motion detection sensor 137 can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device. The motion detection sensor 137 can be implemented as at least one of an accelerometer or a gyroscope.

[0125] Humidity sensor 138 can detect the humidity of the aerosol generating device and / or the container. Humidity sensor 138 can detect the humidity of the external air and / or the humidity inside the container. Humidity sensor 138 can be implemented as a capacitive sensor, etc. Humidity sensor 138 can be disposed on the outside of the main body 10, or located in the path through which external air is introduced, to measure the humidity of the surrounding environment of the aerosol generating device 1. Humidity sensor 138 can be located in the storage portion C0 of the container 19 to measure the humidity inside the container 19.

[0126] In addition to the sensors 131 to 138 described above, sensor 13 may also include at least one of a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), or a proximity sensor. Those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of the sensor from its name, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted.

[0127] Output unit 14 can output information about the status of aerosol generating device 1 and can provide this information to a user. Output unit 14 may include at least one of display 141, haptic unit 142, or sound output unit 143. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. If display 141 and touchpad are layered together to form a touchscreen, display 141 can be used not only as an output device but also as an input device.

[0128] Display 141 can visually provide information about aerosol generating apparatus 1 to the user. For example, the information about aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include various 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 rod S and / or the barrel 19, the installation / removal status of the upper housing, and the usage restrictions of aerosol generating apparatus 1 (e.g., detection of abnormal items), and display 141 can output this information externally. For example, display 141 may be in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED) device. For example, display 141 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting display (OLED), etc.

[0129] The tactile unit 142 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimulation to provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user in a tactile manner. For example, if initial power is supplied to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 for a predetermined amount of time, the tactile unit 142 can generate vibrations 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.

[0130] The sound output unit 143 can audibly provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. For example, the sound output unit 143 can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0131] Power source 11 can supply electricity for the operation of aerosol generating apparatus 1. Power source 11 can supply power to heat barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18. Furthermore, power source 11 can supply the power required for the operation of other components disposed in aerosol generating apparatus 1 (e.g., 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. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0132] although Figure 12 As not shown, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a power protection circuit. This power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0133] The power supply protection circuit can block the electrical path to power supply 11 according to predetermined conditions. For example, when the voltage level of power supply 11 is equal to or higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharging, the power supply protection circuit can block the electrical path to power supply 11. For example, when the voltage level of power supply 11 is lower than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharging, the power supply protection circuit can block the electrical path to power supply 11.

[0134] Heater 18 can receive power from power source 11 to heat the medium or aerosol generated in the heating rod S. Although Figure 12 As not shown, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC-to-DC converter) configured to convert the power from the power source 11 and supply the converted power to the barrel heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Furthermore, if the aerosol generating apparatus 1 generates aerosols by induction heating, it may also include a DC-to-AC converter configured to convert the direct current from the power source 11 into alternating current.

[0135] The controller 12, sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17 can use the power received from the power supply 11 to perform various functions. Although Figure 12 Not shown, the aerosol generating apparatus may also include a power conversion circuit, such as a low-dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, configured to convert the power of the power source 11 and supply the converted power to the corresponding components. Furthermore, although... Figure 12 Although not shown, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. This noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one sensor 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 can prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13, such as when a detection sensor 133 is inserted.

[0136] In embodiments, the barrel 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, or nickel-chromium alloys. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Furthermore, heater 18 can be implemented as a metal plate with metal wires and conductive tracks arranged thereon, or as a ceramic heating element. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0137] In another embodiment, heater 18 may be an induction heater. For example, heater 18 may include a sensor configured to generate heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil, thereby heating the aerosol-generating substance.

[0138] 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 configured to detect touch. For example, the touch sensor can include a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0139] The display 141 and the touch panel can be implemented as an integrated panel. For example, the touch panel can be inserted into the display 141 (top-mounted touch panel or in-unit touch panel). For example, the touch panel can be added to the display 141 (attached touch panel).

[0140] Meanwhile, the input unit 15 may include buttons, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0141] The memory 17 can be hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generating device 1. The memory 17 can store data processed and pending processing by the controller 12. The memory 17 can include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro-memory, 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 regarding 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.

[0142] 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 or a wireless communication unit.

[0143] The short-range communication unit may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near-field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0144] The wireless communication unit may include a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0145] although Figure 12 As not 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 transmit and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0146] The controller 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In an embodiment, the controller 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or it may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable in the microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the processor may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0147] Controller 12 can control the power supply from power source 11 to heater 18 to control the temperature of heater 18. Controller 12 can control barrel heater 24 or heater 18 based on the temperature detected by temperature sensor 131. Controller 12 can control the power supplied to barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, controller 12 can determine the target temperature of barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on temperature profiles stored in memory 17.

[0148] The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the barrel heater 24, heater 18, or induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. This switching element may be implemented as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), etc. The controller 12 may control the power supply circuit.

[0149] The controller 12 can control the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit to control the power supply. The power supply circuit can be an inverter configured to convert the direct current output from the power supply 11 into alternating current. For example, the inverter can consist of a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit that includes multiple switching elements.

[0150] The controller 12 can activate the switching element to supply power from the power source 11 to the barrel heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The controller 12 can deactivate the switching element to interrupt the power supply to the barrel heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The controller 12 can control the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulses input to the switching element to control the current supplied from the power source 11.

[0151] The controller 12 can control the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit to control the voltage output from the power supply 11. 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 configured to progressively reduce the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented as a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.

[0152] The controller 12 can control the on / off operation of the switching elements included in the power conversion circuit to control the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit. If the switching element is held in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can correspond to the voltage level 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. As the duty cycle of the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can decrease. The heater 18 can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0153] The controller 12 can use at least one of pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme or proportional integral derivative (PID) scheme to control the power supply to the heater 18.

[0154] For example, controller 12 can use a PWM scheme to perform control, such that current pulses with a predetermined frequency and a predetermined duty cycle are supplied to heater 18. Controller 12 can control the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses to control the power supplied to heater 18.

[0155] For example, controller 12 can determine the target temperature to be controlled based on a temperature profile. Controller 12 can use a PID scheme to control the power supplied to heater 18, which is a feedback control scheme that uses the difference between the temperature of heater 18 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference with respect to time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference with respect to time.

[0156] The controller 12 can prevent the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the controller 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit such that when the temperature of the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a predetermined limit temperature, the power supply to the barrel heater 24 or heater 18 is interrupted. For example, when the temperature of the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds the predetermined limit temperature, the controller 12 can reduce the power supplied to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a predetermined ratio. For example, when the temperature of the barrel heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the controller 12 can determine that the aerosol generating material contained in the barrel 19 has been depleted and can interrupt the power supply to the barrel heater 24.

[0157] The controller 12 can control the charging / discharging of the power supply 11. The controller 12 can check the temperature of the power supply 11 based on the output signal from the temperature sensor 131.

[0158] If the power cord is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generating device 1, the controller 12 can determine whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than a first limit temperature, which is a reference temperature at which charging of the power supply 11 is interrupted. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is lower than the first limit temperature, the controller 12 can perform control to charge the power supply 11 based on a predetermined charging current. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than the first limit temperature, the controller 12 can interrupt charging of the power supply 11.

[0159] When the aerosol generating device 1 is in the on state, the controller 12 can determine whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than a second limit temperature, which is a reference temperature at which the discharge of the power supply 11 is interrupted. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is lower than the second limit temperature, the controller 12 can perform control to make the power stored in the power supply 11 usable. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than the second limit temperature, the controller 12 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0160] The controller 12 can calculate or determine the remaining electrical energy stored in the power supply 11. For example, the controller 12 can calculate or determine the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage and / or current detection values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0161] The controller 12 can use the insertion detection sensor 133 to determine whether the rod S is inserted into the insertion space. The controller 12 can determine that the rod S has been inserted based on the output signal from the insertion detection sensor 133. Once it is determined that the rod S has been inserted into the insertion space, the controller 12 can perform control to supply power to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the controller 12 can supply power to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0162] Controller 12 can determine whether the rod S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, controller 12 can use insertion detection sensor 133 to determine whether the rod S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, controller 12 can determine that the rod S has been removed from the insertion space when the temperature of heater 18 is equal to or higher than the limit temperature, or when the temperature change slope of heater 18 is equal to or greater than a predetermined slope. Upon determining that the rod S has been removed from the insertion space, controller 12 can interrupt the power supply to barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0163] The controller 12 can control the power supply time and / or electrical quantity supplied to the heater 18 based on the state of the rod S detected by the sensor 13. The controller 12 can check the level range of signals, including those from the capacitive sensor, based on a lookup table. The controller 12 can determine the water content in the rod S based on the checked level range.

[0164] When rod S is in a high humidity state, controller 12 can control the duration of power supply to heater 18 to increase the preheating time of rod S compared to when rod S is in a normal state.

[0165] The controller 12 can use the reuse detection sensor 134 to determine whether the rod S inserted into the insertion space is a reused rod. For example, the controller 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range including a first color, and when the sensed value is within the first reference range, it can determine that the rod S is not a reused rod. For example, the controller 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor with a second reference range including a second color, and when the sensed value is within the second reference range, it can determine that the rod S is a reused rod. When it is determined that the rod S is a reused rod, the controller 12 can interrupt the power supply to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0166] The controller 12 can use the barrel detection sensor 135 to determine whether the barrel 19 is connected and / or removed. For example, the controller 12 can determine whether the barrel 19 is connected and / or removed based on the sensed value of the signal from the barrel detection sensor.

[0167] The controller 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the barrel 19 has been depleted. For example, the controller 12 can apply electricity to preheat the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18, and can determine whether the temperature of the barrel heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature in the preheating section. When the temperature of the barrel heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the controller 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the barrel 19 has been depleted. Upon determining that the aerosol-generating material in the barrel 19 has been depleted, the controller 12 can interrupt the power supply to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0168] The controller 12 can determine whether the barrel 19 can be used. For example, if the controller 12 determines, based on data stored in the memory 17, that the current number of suctions is equal to or greater than the maximum number of suctions set for the barrel 19, the controller 12 can determine that the barrel 19 cannot be used. For example, if the total time period during which the barrel heater 24 is heated is equal to or longer than a predetermined maximum time period, or if the total electrical power supplied to the barrel heater 24 is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum electrical power, the controller 12 can determine that the barrel 19 cannot be used.

[0169] The controller 12 can use the suction sensor 132 to determine whether user suction has occurred. For example, the controller 12 can determine whether suction has occurred based on the sensed value of the signal from the suction sensor 132. For example, the controller 12 can determine the intensity of suction based on the sensed value of the signal from the suction sensor 132. When the number of suctions reaches a predetermined maximum number of suctions, or when no suction is detected for a predetermined time period or longer, the controller 12 can interrupt the power supply to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0170] The controller 12 may use the upper housing detection sensor 136 to determine whether the upper housing has been attached and / or removed. For example, the controller 12 may determine whether the upper housing has been attached and / or removed based on the sensed value of the signal from the upper housing detection sensor.

[0171] The controller 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the detection results of the sensor 13. For example, when the number of suctions counted by the suction sensor 132 reaches a predetermined number, the controller 12 can notify the user that the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 will end immediately via at least one of the display 141, the tactile unit 142, or the sound output unit 143. For example, if the determination rod S is not present in the insertion space, the controller 12 can notify the user of the determination result via the output unit 14. For example, if the determination barrel 19 and / or the upper housing is not installed, the controller 12 can notify the user of the determination result via the output unit 14. For example, the controller 12 can transmit information about the temperature of the barrel heater 24 and / or the heater 18 to the user via the output unit 14.

[0172] When a predetermined event is determined to have occurred, the controller 12 can store the history of the corresponding event in the memory 17 and can update the history. Events can include those performed in the aerosol generating apparatus 1, such as the insertion of the detection rod S, the start of heating the rod S, detection of suction, termination of suction, detection of overheating of the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18, detection of applying overvoltage to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18, termination of heating the rod S, on / off operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, start of charging the power supply 11, detection of overcharging of the power supply 11, and termination of charging the power supply 11. The event history can include the date and time of the event and corresponding log data. For example, when the predetermined event is the insertion of the detection rod S, the corresponding log data can include data about the value detected by the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, when the predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18, and the current flowing through the barrel heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0173] The controller 12 can perform control to establish a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the controller 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 the completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. 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 or an identification number, and can receive data regarding usage rights of the aerosol generating device 1 from an external server. The external device can transmit data indicating the completion of user authentication to the aerosol generating device 1 based on the data regarding usage rights. When user authentication is completed, the controller 12 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, when user authentication is completed, the controller 12 can remove restrictions on the use of the heating function for supplying power to the heater 18.

[0174] The controller 12 can transmit the status data of the aerosol generating device 1 to the external device via a communication link established with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 or the operating mode of the aerosol generating device 1 through its display.

[0175] An external device can transmit a position search request to the aerosol generating device 1 based on an input for initiating a search for the location of the aerosol generating device 1. Upon receiving the position search request from the external device, the controller 12 can perform control based on the received position search request, causing at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the position search. For example, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibration in response to the position search request. For example, the display 141 can output an object corresponding to the position search and search termination in response to the position search request.

[0176] Upon receiving firmware data from an external device, the controller 12 can perform control to update the firmware. The external device can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine if a new firmware version exists. Upon receiving an input requesting firmware download, the external device can receive the new firmware data and transmit it to the aerosol generating device 1. Upon receiving the new firmware data, the controller 12 can perform control to update the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0177] The controller 12 can transmit data about the values ​​detected by at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the detected values ​​through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The controller 12 can perform operations to determine the user's suction pattern and to generate a temperature curve using the learning model received from the server. The controller 12 can store data about the values ​​detected by at least one sensor 13 and data for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in a memory 17. For example, the memory 17 can store a database of each component in the aerosol generating device 1, as well as the weights and biases constituting the structure of the artificial neural network (ANN) for training the ANN. The controller 12 can learn from the data stored in the memory 17 about the values ​​detected by at least one sensor 13, the user's suction pattern, and the temperature curve, and can generate at least one learning model for determining the user's suction pattern and generating the temperature curve.

[0178] As described above, in at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the time required to heat the heater can be reduced and user satisfaction can be improved due to the use of a heater made of carbonaceous material.

[0179] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the power supplied to the heater is controlled according to the rate of increase of the heater's temperature, the circuit can be prevented from becoming unstable due to a sharp increase in the rate of increase of the heater's temperature.

[0180] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the voltage applied to the heater is driven in a negative manner, overshoot of the applied voltage and inrush current can be reduced, and stable operation of the circuit can be ensured.

[0181] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, since the heat diffusion section is disposed on the outside of the heater, the heat generated unevenly from the heater can be diffused, and the dissipation of heat generated from the heater to the outside of the heater is reduced, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0182] Reference Figures 1 to 12According to one aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a main body 10, a heater 18 disposed in the main body 10 and including a carbonaceous material, a temperature sensor 131 configured to output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the heater 18, a power supply 11 configured to supply power to the heater 18, a heater drive circuit 200 electrically connected to the heater 18 and the power supply 11, and a controller 12 configured to control the power supplied to the heater 18. The controller 12 may determine the rate of temperature increase of the heater 18 based on the signal received from the temperature sensor 131, and when it is determined that the rate of temperature increase is equal to or higher than a predetermined rate, the controller 12 may control the heater drive circuit 200 to interrupt the power supply to the heater 18.

[0183] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, carbonaceous materials may include at least one of graphene or carbon nanotubes.

[0184] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the heater drive circuit 200 may include a first circuit 210 and a second circuit 220. The first circuit is electrically connected to a first terminal 182 of the heater 18 and configured to apply a first voltage Va of a constant magnitude to the first terminal 182 of the heater 18. The second circuit is electrically connected to a second terminal 183 of the heater 18 and configured to apply a second voltage Vb to the second terminal 183 of the heater 18. The magnitude of the second voltage Vb may be greater than or equal to 0V and less than or equal to the magnitude V1 of the first voltage Va.

[0185] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the second circuit 220 may include a first resistor 222 connected to the power supply 11 and the second terminal 183 of the heater 18, and a switch 223 connected to the first resistor 222. The voltage Vb applied to the second terminal 183 of the heater 18 may vary depending on the on / off operation of the switch 223.

[0186] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, when the rate of temperature increase is determined to be equal to or higher than a predetermined rate, the controller 12 can control the on / off operation of the switch 223 to interrupt the power supply to the heater 18.

[0187] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, when the rate of temperature increase is determined to be equal to or higher than a predetermined rate, the controller 12 can control the on / off operation of the switch 223 to apply a first voltage Va to the second terminal 183 of the heater 18.

[0188] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, when it is determined that the rate of temperature increase is lower than a predetermined rate, the controller 12 can determine the duty cycle based on the rate of temperature increase, and can control the operation of the switch 223 based on the determined duty cycle.

[0189] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the controller 12 can determine the duty cycle such that the duty cycle is inversely proportional to the rate of temperature increase.

[0190] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the controller 12 can determine the duty cycle based on the rate of temperature increase, such that the duty cycle is equal to or less than 20%.

[0191] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the controller 12 can determine the temperature of the heater 18 based on a signal received from the temperature sensor 131, and when it is determined that the temperature is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, the controller 12 can interrupt the power supply to the heater 18.

[0192] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the body 10 may include an insertion space 43 having an open end, and the heater 18 may be formed in a cylindrical shape to surround the periphery of the insertion space 43.

[0193] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may also include a heat diffusion section 188 disposed outside the heater 18 so as to contact at least a portion of the heater 18.

[0194] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the heat diffusion section 188 may include at least one of a hollow graphite sheet, a vacuum tube, or a heat pipe.

[0195] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the temperature sensor 131 may include a negative temperature coefficient thermistor.

[0196] Some or other embodiments of the above disclosure are not mutually exclusive or different from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments of this disclosure may be configured or combined with another element or with each other.

[0197] For example, configuration "A" described in one embodiment of this disclosure and the accompanying drawings, and configuration "B" described in another embodiment of this disclosure and the accompanying drawings, can be combined with each other. That is, although combinations between these configurations are not directly described, all combinations are possible except in cases where describing the combination is not possible.

[0198] Although embodiments have been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that many other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that fall within the scope of the principles of this disclosure. More specifically, various changes and modifications can be made to the components and / or arrangement of the subject matter arrangement within the scope of this disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to changes and modifications to the components and / or arrangement, alternative uses will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: main body; A heater, which is disposed in the body and comprises a carbonaceous material; A temperature sensor configured to output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the heater; A power source configured to supply power to the heater; A heater drive circuit, wherein the heater drive circuit is electrically connected to the heater and the power supply; as well as A controller, configured to control the power supplied to the heater, The controller is configured to: The rate of temperature increase of the heater is determined based on the signal received from the temperature sensor, and When the rate of temperature increase is determined to be equal to or higher than a predetermined rate, the heater drive circuit is controlled to interrupt the power supply to the heater.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The carbonaceous material includes at least one of graphene or carbon nanotubes.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heater drive circuit includes: A first circuit, electrically connected to a first terminal of the heater, and configured to apply a first voltage of constant magnitude to the first terminal of the heater; and A second circuit, electrically connected to a second terminal of the heater, is configured to apply a second voltage to the second terminal of the heater. Wherein, the magnitude of the second voltage is greater than or equal to 0V and less than or equal to the magnitude of the first voltage.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The second circuit includes: A first resistor, the first resistor being connected to the second terminal of the power supply and the heater; and A switch, the switch being connected to the first resistor, and The voltage applied to the second terminal of the heater varies depending on the on / off operation of the switch.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, When the rate of temperature increase is determined to be equal to or higher than the predetermined rate, the controller is configured to control the on / off operation of the switch to interrupt the power supply to the heater.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, When the rate of temperature increase is determined to be equal to or higher than the predetermined rate, the controller is configured to control the on / off operation of the switch to apply the first voltage to the second terminal of the heater.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, When it is determined that the rate of temperature increase is lower than the predetermined rate, the controller is configured to determine the duty cycle based on the rate of temperature increase and to control the operation of the switch based on the determined duty cycle.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the duty cycle such that the duty cycle is inversely proportional to the rate of temperature increase.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the duty cycle based on the rate of temperature increase, such that the duty cycle is equal to or less than 20%.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the temperature of the heater based on the signal received from the temperature sensor, and Specifically, when the temperature is determined to be equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, the controller is configured to interrupt the power supply to the heater.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The main body includes an insertion space with an open end, and The heater is formed in a cylindrical shape to surround the periphery of the insertion space.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a heat diffusion section disposed outside the heater so as to contact at least a portion of the heater.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The heat diffusion section includes at least one of hollow graphite sheet, vacuum tube or heat pipe.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The temperature sensor includes a negative temperature coefficient thermistor.

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