Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

According to an embodiment, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising: a battery supplying power required for operation of the aerosol-generating device; a heater for heating the aerosol-generating article; an ultrasonic sensor unit that outputs ultrasonic waves based on a plurality of preset frequencies to an aerosol-generating article and receives the ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol-generating article; and a control unit that analyzes the constituent substances of the aerosol-generating article using a time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic waves based on the plurality of frequencies and the reception time of the reflected ultrasonic waves corresponding thereto, and an intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic waves and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic waves.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an aerosol generation device. Background Technology

[0002] As an alternative to burning cigarettes to generate aerosols, there is a growing demand for aerosol generating equipment that generates aerosols in a non-combustible manner. Aerosol generating equipment is, for example, a device that generates aerosols from aerosol-generating substances in a non-combustible manner and supplies them to users, or that uses vapor generated from aerosol-generating substances to pass through a flavoring medium to generate flavored aerosols.

[0003] An example of an aerosol generating apparatus may include an aerosol generating apparatus that contains replaceable aerosol generating articles and generates aerosols from the contained aerosol generating articles. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0005] Unlike traditional cigarettes, aerosol-generating articles often have different structures and shapes to achieve diverse heating methods or flavor profiles. The type of such aerosol-generating article can be visually identified using product instructions. However, a problem exists: without product instructions, it is difficult to visually confirm the aerosol-generating article and determine the type of stick, and it is also impossible to determine its type when inserted into an aerosol-generating device.

[0006] The transmission speed or attenuation of ultrasound waves may vary depending on the density of the medium or the compressibility of the material.

[0007] In an embodiment, to address this problem, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided that can identify the structural characteristics of the medium by utilizing the aforementioned properties of ultrasound.

[0008] means for solving problems

[0009] According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating device is provided, comprising: a battery for supplying power required for the operation of the aerosol generating device; a heater for heating an aerosol generating article; an ultrasonic sensor for outputting ultrasonic waves based on a plurality of preset frequencies to the aerosol generating article and receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol generating article; and a control unit for analyzing the constituent materials of the aerosol generating article using time differences between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic waves based on the plurality of frequencies and the reception time of the corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves, and intensity differences between the intensity of the output ultrasonic waves and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic waves.

[0010] The control unit can analyze the constituent materials of each region of the aerosol-generating article by utilizing the output ultrasonic waves based on the plurality of frequencies and the corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves.

[0011] The control unit can analyze the constituent materials of each region of the aerosol-generating article by assigning different weights to each of the plurality of frequencies.

[0012] The control unit may include a deep learning model that learns from the input output ultrasonic waves and reflected ultrasonic waves, using the constituent materials of the aerosol-generated article as the output layer.

[0013] It may also include a temperature sensor configured on the aerosol-generating article.

[0014] The control unit can use the temperature data measured by the temperature sensor to adjust the frequency range of the output ultrasonic waves.

[0015] The control unit can use the temperature data measured by the temperature sensor, the output ultrasonic waves based on the multiple frequencies, and the corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves to analyze the state of the constituent substances of the aerosol-generating article.

[0016] According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating device is provided, comprising: a battery for supplying power required for the operation of the aerosol generating device; a heater for heating an aerosol generating article; a liquid storage unit; a reflector configured at a predetermined interval from the liquid storage unit; an ultrasonic sensor for outputting ultrasonic waves based on a plurality of preset frequencies to the liquid storage unit and receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the liquid storage unit and the reflector; and a control unit for analyzing the constituent materials of the aerosol generating article using the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic waves based on the plurality of frequencies and the reception time of the corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves, and the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic waves and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic waves.

[0017] The effects of the invention

[0018] The aerosol generating device according to the embodiment can identify the type of aerosol-generated article in a non-contact manner.

[0019] In addition, it is possible to identify the constituent materials of each area of ​​the aerosol-generating article.

[0020] In addition, the state of aerosol-generating articles based on the ambient temperature of the aerosol-generating articles can be identified in a non-contact manner. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figures 1 to 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of inserting a cigarette into an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a cigarette according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the control unit according to another embodiment.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0029] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to yet another embodiment.

[0030] Figures 13 to 17 This is a flowchart of the operation of the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The terminology used in the embodiments has been selected as widely used and common terms as possible, taking into account the functionality of the invention. However, these terms may be changed based on the intent of those skilled in the art, precedents, or the emergence of new technologies. Furthermore, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily choose some terms; in such cases, the meaning of the selected terms will be described in detail in the corresponding description of the invention. Therefore, the terminology used in this invention should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the invention, and not simply on the names of the terms.

[0032] Throughout this specification, the phrase "includes" a component means that, unless otherwise described, that part may also include other components, not that it excludes other components. Furthermore, the terms "part," "module," etc., used in this specification refer to a unit that performs at least one function or action, which can be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can readily implement the invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, but can be implemented in various different ways.

[0034] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] Figures 1 to 3 This is a diagram showing an example of inserting a cigarette into an aerosol generating device.

[0036] Reference Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. (See reference...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 also includes a vaporizer 14. Additionally, a cigarette 2 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0037] Figures 1 to 3 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 shown illustrates the components relevant to this embodiment. Therefore, those skilled in the art related to this embodiment will understand that the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include, in addition to... Figure 1 as well as Figure 3 Other commonly used constituent elements besides those shown in the diagram.

[0038] In addition, although in Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 shown includes a heater 13, but the heater 13 may be omitted depending on the requirements.

[0039] Figure 1 The image shows the battery 11, control unit 12, and heater 13 arranged in a row. Additionally, Figure 2 The diagram shows the battery 11, control unit 12, vaporizer 14, and heater 13 arranged in a row. Additionally, Figure 3 The vaporizer 14 and heater 13 are shown arranged side by side. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to... Figures 1 to 3 As shown. In other words, the configuration of the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14 can be changed according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0040] When cigarette 2 is inserted into aerosol generating device 1, aerosol generating device 1 can activate heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 to generate aerosol. The aerosol generated by heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 is delivered to the user via cigarette 2.

[0041] As needed, even if the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 can still heat the heater 13.

[0042] The battery 11 supplies power to operate the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 11 can power the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 and supply the power required for operation to the control unit 12. In addition, the battery 11 can supply the power required for operation to the display, sensors, motors, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0043] The control unit 12 provides overall control over the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls not only the battery 11, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, but also the operation of other structures installed in the aerosol generating device 1. In addition, the control unit 12 can also check the status of each structure of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in a state where it can operate.

[0044] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor can be implemented using multiple gate arrays, or it can be implemented using a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing programs that can be executed by the microprocessor. Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains, it can also be implemented using other forms of hardware.

[0045] The heater 13 can be heated by electricity supplied by the battery 11. For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 13 can be located outside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater 13 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substances inside the cigarette.

[0046] Heater 13 can be a resistance heater. For example, heater 13 includes a conductive track, through which current flows, and heater 13 can be heated. However, heater 13 is not limited to the above example; it can be used as long as it can heat to the desired temperature, and there are no particular limitations. Here, the desired temperature may be set in the aerosol generating device 1, or it may be set by the user.

[0047] On the other hand, as another example, heater 13 can be an induction heating heater. Specifically, heater 13 may include a conductive coil for heating the cigarette in an induction heating manner, and the cigarette may include a susceptor capable of being heated by the induction heating heater.

[0048] For example, heater 13 may include tubular heating element, plate heating element, needle heating element or rod heating element, which can heat the inside or outside of cigarette 2 according to the shape of the heating element.

[0049] Additionally, multiple heaters 13 can be configured in the aerosol generating device 1. These heaters 13 can be configured to be inserted inside the cigarette 2 or located outside the cigarette 2. Furthermore, some of the heaters 13 may be inserted inside the cigarette 2, while the remaining heaters may be located outside the cigarette 2. The shape of the heaters 13 is not limited to... Figures 1 to 3 The shape shown can also be made into many other shapes.

[0050] The vaporizer 14 can generate an aerosol by heating a liquid composition, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user via cigarette 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can move along the airflow path of the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow path can be configured to deliver the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 to the user via cigarette.

[0051] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer unit, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer unit, and the heating element may be provided as independent modules in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0052] The liquid storage unit can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing tobacco substances including volatile tobacco flavor components, or it can be a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage unit can be made to be detachable from or installed on the vaporizer 14, or it can be integrated with the vaporizer 140.

[0053] For example, the liquid composition may contain water, solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrance, flavoring agent, or vitamin mixture. The fragrance may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, and various fruit flavoring components. The flavoring agent may contain ingredients capable of providing the user with a variety of fragrances or flavors. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E, but is not limited to. Additionally, the liquid composition may contain aerosol forming agents such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0054] The liquid transfer unit is capable of transferring the liquid composition from the liquid storage section to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer unit can be a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but is not limited to these.

[0055] A heating element is a component used to heat a liquid composition transferred by a liquid transfer unit. For example, the heating element can be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited to these. Alternatively, the heating element can be made of a conductive heating wire such as nickel-chromium wire, and can be configured to be wound around the liquid transfer unit. The heating element can be heated by a supplied current and transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0056] For example, vaporizer 14 may also be referred to as an electronic cartomizer or atomizer, but is not limited to these terms.

[0057] On the other hand, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include other general structures besides the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (a suction sensor, a temperature sensor, an aerosol generating article insertion sensor, etc.). Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may be configured to allow external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when a cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0058] Although Figures 1 to 3 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 can form a system together with a separately provided bracket. For example, the bracket can be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 can also be heated when the bracket and the aerosol generating device 1 are combined.

[0059] Cigarette 2 can be similar to a regular combustible cigarette. For example, cigarette 2 can be divided into a first part including aerosol-generating substances and a second part including a filter, etc. Alternatively, the second part of cigarette 2 may also include aerosol-generating substances. For example, aerosol-generating substances made in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second part.

[0060] The entire first part can be inserted inside the aerosol generating device 1, while the second part can be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, a portion of the first part, the entire first part, and a portion of the second part can be inserted inside the aerosol generating device 1. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. At this time, external air passes through the first part to generate aerosol, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth via the second part.

[0061] As an example, external air can flow in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the size of the air passage can be adjusted by the user. Thus, the user can adjust the amount of vaporization, the smoking sensation, etc. As another example, external air can also flow into the interior of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0062] The following is for reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The following example illustrates cigarette 2.

[0063] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of a cigarette.

[0064] Reference Figure 4 Cigarette 2 includes a tobacco stick 21 and a filter stick 22. (See reference...) Figures 1 to 3 The first part 21 includes a tobacco stick 21, and the second part 22 includes a filter stick 22.

[0065] Figure 4 The filter rod 22 is shown as a single-segment structure, but it is not limited to this. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment for cooling aerosols and a segment for filtering specified components contained within the aerosols. In addition, depending on the requirements, the filter rod 22 may also include at least one segment that performs other functions.

[0066] The diameter of the cigarette 2 is in the range of 5mm to 9mm, and the length can be about 48mm, but is not limited to this. For example, the length of the tobacco stick 21 can be about 12mm, the length of the first section of the filter stick 22 can be about 10mm, the length of the second section of the filter stick 22 can be about 14mm, and the length of the third section of the filter stick 22 can be about 12mm, but is not limited to this.

[0067] Cigarette 2 can be wrapped with at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole for external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out. As an example, cigarette 2 can be wrapped with one wrapper 24. As another example, cigarette 2 can also be wrapped with two or more wrappers 24 overlapping each other. For example, tobacco stick 21 is wrapped with a first wrapper 241, and filter stick 22 is wrapped with multiple wrappers 242, 243, and 244. Furthermore, cigarette 2 as a whole can be wrapped again with a single wrapper 245. If filter stick 22 is composed of multiple segments, each segment can be wrapped with multiple wrappers 242, 243, and 244.

[0068] The first wrapping paper 241 and the second wrapping paper 242 can be made of ordinary filter paper rolls. For example, the first wrapping paper 241 and the second wrapping paper 242 can be porous paper rolls or non-porous paper rolls. Alternatively, the first wrapping paper 241 and the second wrapping paper 242 can be made of oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum composite packaging materials.

[0069] The third wrapping paper 243 can be made from stiff roll paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapping paper 243 can be 88 g / m³. 2 ~96g / m 2 Within the range, preferably, it can be within 90g / m 2 ~94g / m 2Within the range. In addition, the thickness of the third packaging paper 243 can be in the range of 120um to 130um, preferably 125um.

[0070] The fourth wrapping paper 244 can be made from oil-resistant hard roll paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapping paper 244 can be 88 g / m³. 2 ~96g / m 2 Within the range, preferably, it can be within 90g / m 2 ~94g / m 2 Within the range. In addition, the thickness of the fourth packaging paper 244 can be in the range of 120um to 130um, preferably 125um.

[0071] Fifth wrapping paper 245 can be made from aseptic paper (MFW). Here, aseptic paper (MFW) refers to specially manufactured paper with improved tensile strength, water resistance, and smoothness compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of fifth wrapping paper 245 can be 57 g / m³. 2 ~63g / m 2 Within the range, preferably, it can be 60g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the fifth packaging paper 245 can be in the range of 64um to 70um, preferably 67um.

[0072] The fifth wrapping paper 245 may contain a predetermined substance. Here, silicon may be an example of a predetermined substance, but it is not limited to it. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with minimal temperature change, oxidation resistance, resistance to various pharmaceuticals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance possessing the above-mentioned properties can be coated (or coated) onto the fifth wrapping paper 245 without restriction.

[0073] The fifth wrapping paper 245 prevents the cigarette 2 from burning. For example, when the tobacco stick 21 is heated by the heater 13, the cigarette 2 may burn. Specifically, the cigarette 2 can burn when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any of the substances in the tobacco stick 21. Even in this case, the fifth wrapping paper 245 contains a non-combustible material, thus preventing the cigarette 2 from burning.

[0074] Furthermore, the fifth wrapping paper 245 prevents the holder from being contaminated by substances generated in the cigarette 2. Liquid substances can be generated inside the cigarette 2 through the user's inhalation. For example, the aerosol generated in the cigarette 2 may be cooled by external air, thereby generating liquid substances (e.g., moisture). Because the cigarette 2 is wrapped with the fifth wrapping paper 245, leakage of liquid substances generated in the cigarette 2 to the outside of the cigarette 2 is prevented.

[0075] The tobacco stick 21 includes an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. Additionally, the tobacco stick 21 may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, flavoring liquids such as menthol or humectants may be added to the tobacco stick 21 by spraying.

[0076] The tobacco stick 21 can be made in various ways. For example, the tobacco stick 21 can be made from tobacco sheets or tobacco strands. Alternatively, the tobacco stick 21 can be made from tobacco strands obtained by slicing tobacco sheets into fine pieces. Furthermore, the tobacco stick 21 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but it is not limited to this. As an example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco stick 21 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco stick 21, thereby increasing the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco stick, which can improve the flavor of the tobacco. Additionally, the heat-conducting material of the tobacco stick 21 can function as a heat-sensing element heated by an induction heating heater. In this case, although not shown in the figure, the tobacco stick 21 may include other heat-sensing elements in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding the exterior.

[0077] The filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, the shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 can be a cylindrical rod, or a tubular rod with a hollow interior. Additionally, the filter rod 22 can be a semi-concealed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments can be made into a different shape.

[0078] The first section of filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first section can include a hollow tubular structure inside. When the heater is inserted, the first section 13 can prevent the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 from retracting and can generate an aerosol cooling effect. The diameter of the hollow part in the first section can be a suitable diameter in the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0079] The length of the first segment can be appropriately within the range of 4mm to 30mm, but is not limited to this. Preferably, the length of the first segment can be 10mm, but is not limited to this.

[0080] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by changing the amount of plasticizer during its manufacture. Furthermore, the first segment can be made by inserting structures such as membranes or tubes of the same or different materials inside (e.g., hollow).

[0081] The second section of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by heating the tobacco rod 21 via the heater 13. Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature.

[0082] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment can be suitably adopted in the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment can be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0083] The second segment is manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, fragrance can also be applied to the polymer-supported fibers. Alternatively, the second segment can be manufactured by weaving together separate fragrance-coated fibers and fibers made of polymer. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed from crimped polymer sheets.

[0084] For example, the polymer can be made from materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0085] Since the second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or crimped polymer sheets, it may include one or more longitudinally extending channels. Here, a channel refers to a passage through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0086] For example, the second segment formed from the rolled polymer sheet can be formed of a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm (e.g., between about 10 μm and about 250 μm). Additionally, the total surface area of ​​the second segment can be about 300 mm². 2 / mm and approximately 1000mm 2 Between / mm. Additionally, aerosol cooling elements can be constructed using elements with a diameter of approximately 10mm. 2 / mg and approximately 100mg 2 Materials with a specific surface area between / mg are formed.

[0087] On the other hand, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile aroma component. This volatile aroma component may be menthol, but is not limited to it. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide the second segment with more than 1.5 mg of menthol.

[0088] The third section of filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third section can be appropriately adopted in the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third section can be about 12 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0089] During the manufacturing process of the third section, it can also be made so that fragrance can be produced by spraying flavoring into the third section. Alternatively, individual fibers coated with flavoring can be inserted into the interior of the third section. The aerosol generated in the tobacco stick 21 is cooled as it passes through the second section of the filter stick 22, and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the third section. Therefore, when flavoring elements are added to the third section, an effect can be produced that increases the persistence of the fragrance delivered to the user.

[0090] Additionally, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 can function to generate fragrance and also to generate aerosols. For example, the capsule 23 may be a structure in which a fragrance-containing liquid is encapsulated by a membrane. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to these.

[0091] Reference Figure 5 The cigarette 3 may also include a front plug 33. In the tobacco stick 31, the front plug 33 may be located on the side facing the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 prevents the tobacco stick 31 from detaching outwards and prevents the aerosol liquefied from the tobacco stick 31 from flowing into the aerosol generating device during smoking. Figures 1 to 3 1).

[0092] The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 may correspond to... Figure 4 The first section and the second section 322 of the filter rod 22 can correspond to Figure 4 The third section of filter rod 22.

[0093] The diameter and overall length of cigarette 3 can correspond to Figure 4 The diameter and overall length of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the front plug 33 may be approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco stick 31 may be approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be approximately 14 mm, but are not limited thereto.

[0094] The cigarette 3 can be wrapped with at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole for external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out. For example, the front plug 33 can be wrapped with a first wrapper 351, the tobacco stick 31 can be wrapped with a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 can be wrapped with a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 can be wrapped with a fourth wrapper 354. Furthermore, the entire cigarette 3 can be wrapped again with a fifth wrapper 355.

[0095] Additionally, at least one perforation 36 may be formed on the fifth wrapping paper 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the area surrounding the tobacco stick 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 can be used to allow passage through... Figure 2and Figure 3 The heat generated by the heater 13 shown is transferred to the interior of the tobacco stick 31.

[0096] Additionally, the second paragraph 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 can function to generate fragrance or to generate aerosols. For example, the capsule 34 may be a structure in which a fragrance-containing liquid is encapsulated by a membrane. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to these.

[0097] The first packaging paper 351 can be made of ordinary filter paper combined with metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the overall thickness of the first packaging paper 351 can be in the range of 45µm to 55µm, preferably 50.3µm. Furthermore, the thickness of the metal foil in the first packaging paper 351 can be in the range of 6µm to 7µm, preferably 6.3µm. Additionally, the basis weight of the first packaging paper 351 can be 50g / m³. 2 ~55g / m 2 Within the range, preferably, it can be 53g / m 2 .

[0098] The second wrapping paper 352 and the third wrapping paper 353 can be made from ordinary filter paper rolls. For example, the second wrapping paper 352 and the third wrapping paper 353 can be porous paper rolls or non-porous paper rolls.

[0099] For example, the porosity of the second packaging paper 352 can be 35000 CU, but is not limited to this. Additionally, the thickness of the second packaging paper 352 can be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, preferably 78 μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the second packaging paper 352 can be 20 g / m³. 2 ~25g / m 2 Within the range, preferably, it can be 23.5 g / m 2 .

[0100] For example, the porosity of the third packaging paper 353 can be 24000 CU, but is not limited to this. Additionally, the thickness of the third packaging paper 353 can be in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, preferably 68 μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the third packaging paper 353 can be 20 g / m³. 2 ~25g / m 2 Within the range, preferably, it can be 21 g / m 2 .

[0101] The fourth packaging paper 354 can be made of PLA composite material. Here, PLA composite material refers to a three-layer paper comprising a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth packaging paper 354 can be in the range of 100µm to 120µm, preferably 110µm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the fourth packaging paper 354 can be 80 g / m³. 2 ~100g / m 2 Within the range, preferably, it can be 88g / m 2 .

[0102] Fifth-grade wrapping paper 355 can be made from aseptic paper (MFW). Here, aseptic paper (MFW) refers to specially manufactured paper with improved tensile strength, water resistance, and smoothness compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of fifth-grade wrapping paper 355 can be 57 g / m³. 2 ~63g / m 2 Within the range, preferably, it can be 60g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the fifth packaging paper 355 can be in the range of 64um to 70um, preferably 67um.

[0103] The fifth wrapping paper 355 may contain a predetermined substance. Here, silicon may be an example of a predetermined substance, but it is not limited to it. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with minimal temperature change, antioxidant properties that are not easily oxidized, resistance to various pharmaceuticals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance possessing the above-mentioned properties can be coated (or coated) onto the fifth wrapping paper 355 without restriction.

[0104] The front plug 33 can be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the front plug 33 can be made by applying a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. The monodenier of the cellulose acetate tow can be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the monodenier of the front plug 33 can be 5.0. Additionally, the cross-section of the monofilament constituting the front plug 33 can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 33 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front plug 33 can be 28,000.

[0105] Additionally, depending on the requirements, the front plug 33 may include at least one channel, the cross-sectional shape of which may be manufactured in various ways.

[0106] Reference Figure 4The tobacco stick 31 can correspond to the tobacco stick 21 described above. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco stick 31 will be omitted below.

[0107] The first segment 321 can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment can include a hollow tubular structure inside. The first segment 321 can be made by applying a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. For example, the denier of the first segment 321 can be the same as the denier of the first segment 321.

[0108] The second segment 322 can be made of cellulose acetate. The monofilament denier of the fibers constituting the second segment 322 can be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the monofilament denier of the fibers in the second segment 322 can be 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the monofilaments in the second segment 322 can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably in the range of 25,000.

[0109] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 600 according to another embodiment.

[0110] The aerosol generating device 600 may include a control unit 610, a sensing unit 620, an output unit 630, a battery 640, a heater 650, a user input unit 660, a memory 670, and a communication unit 680. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 600 is not limited to... Figure 6 As shown. That is, based on the design of the aerosol generating device 600, those skilled in the art will understand that... Figure 6 Some of the components shown can be omitted, or other components can be added.

[0111] Figure 6 The battery 640, heater 650, and control unit 610 can perform operations related to... Figures 1 to 3 The battery, heater, and control unit have essentially the same functions, therefore, repeated descriptions will be omitted, and the focus will be on the modified or additional structures and operations. The sensor unit 620 can detect the state of the aerosol generating device 600 or the state around the aerosol generating device 600, and transmit the detected information to the control unit 610. Based on the detected information, the control unit 610 can control the aerosol generating device 600 to perform various functions such as controlling the heater 650, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating item (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.) is inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0112] The sensing unit 620 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 622, an insertion detection sensor 624, and a suction sensor 626, but is not limited thereto.

[0113] Temperature sensor 622 can detect the temperature at which heater 650 (or aerosol generating material) is heated. Aerosol generating device 600 may include a separate temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of heater 650, or heater 650 itself may function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, temperature sensor 622 may also be configured around battery 640 to monitor the temperature of battery 640.

[0114] Insertion detection sensor 624 can detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generating articles. For example, insertion detection sensor 624 may include at least one of a thin-film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, which can detect signal changes during the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generating articles.

[0115] The suction sensor 626 can detect a user's suction based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the suction sensor 626 can detect a user's suction based on any one of temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0116] In addition to the sensors 622 to 626 described above, the sensing unit 620 may also include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an illuminance sensor. Since those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0117] The output unit 630 can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 600 and provide it to the user. The output unit 630 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the display unit 632, the haptic unit 634, and the audio output unit 636. When the display unit 632 and the touchpad are stacked to form a touch screen, the display unit 632 can be used as an input device in addition to being an output device.

[0118] Display unit 632 can provide users with information about aerosol generating equipment 600 in a visual form. For example, the information about aerosol generating equipment 600 can refer to various information such as the charging / discharging status of battery 640, the preheating status of heater 650, the insertion / removal status of aerosol-generating items, or the status restricting the use of aerosol generating equipment 600 (e.g., abnormal item detection). Display unit 632 can output this information to an external device. For example, display unit 632 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), or the like. Alternatively, display unit 632 can also be in the form of an LED light-emitting element.

[0119] The tactile unit 634 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimulation, thereby providing the user with information about the aerosol generating device 600 in a tactile form. For example, the tactile unit 634 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0120] The audio output unit 636 can provide information about the aerosol generating device 600 to the user in an auditory form. For example, the audio output unit 636 can convert electrical signals into audio signals and output them to the outside.

[0121] Battery 640 supplies power for the operation of aerosol generating device 600. Battery 640 also powers heater 650. Additionally, battery 640 provides the necessary power for the operation of other structures within aerosol generating device 600 (e.g., sensor 620, output 630, user input 660, memory 670, and communication 680). Battery 640 can be a rechargeable or disposable battery. For example, battery 640 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0122] The heater 650 can receive power from the battery 640 to heat the aerosol-generating material. Although Figure 6 As not shown, the aerosol generating apparatus 600 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 640 to supply the heater 650. Additionally, when the aerosol generating apparatus 600 generates aerosols via induction heating, it may also include a DC / AC converter that converts the direct current from the battery 640 to alternating current.

[0123] The control unit 610, sensor unit 620, output unit 630, user input unit 660, memory 670, and communication unit 680 can receive power from the battery 640 to perform their functions. Although Figure 6Not shown, but may also include power conversion circuitry, such as low dropout (LDO) circuitry or voltage regulator circuitry, for converting the power of battery 640 to supply power to each component.

[0124] In one embodiment, the heater 650 can be formed of any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials can be metals or metal alloys, including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nickel-chromium alloys, etc. Furthermore, the heater 650 can be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with conductive tracks thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0125] In another embodiment, heater 650 may be an induction heating heater. For example, heater 650 may include a sensor that heats the aerosol-generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0126] In one embodiment, heater 650 may include multiple heaters. For example, heater 650 may include a first heater for heating cigarettes and a second heater for heating liquids.

[0127] The user input unit 660 can receive user input or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 660 can be a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (contact capacitive type, pressure resistive film type, infrared sensing type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a scroll wheel, a momentary switch, etc., but is not limited to these. Furthermore, although... Figure 6 As not shown, the aerosol generating device 600 also includes a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and can be connected to other external devices via the USB interface or other connection interface to send and receive information, or to charge the battery 640.

[0128] The memory 670 serves as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generating device 600. It can store data already processed in the control unit 610, as well as data to be processed. The memory 670 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card micro, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory 670 can store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 600, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0129] The communication unit 680 may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit 680 may include a short-range communication unit 682 and a wireless communication unit 684.

[0130] The short-range wireless communication unit 682 may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth communication units, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication units, near-field communication units, wireless local area network (WLAN) communication units, Zigbee communication units, infrared data association (IrDA) communication units, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication units, ultra-wideband (UWB) communication units, Ant+ communication units, etc.

[0131] The wireless communication unit 684 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit. The wireless communication unit 684 may also use user information (e.g., the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) to verify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 600 within the communication network.

[0132] The control unit 610 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 600. In one embodiment, the control unit 610 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented by a plurality of logic gate arrays, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing programs that can be executed by the microprocessor. Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains, it may also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0133] The control unit 610 controls the temperature of the heater 650 by controlling the power supply from the battery 640 to the heater 650. For example, the control unit 610 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 640 and the heater 650. In another example, the heating integrated circuit can also control the power supply to the heater 650 according to the control command from the control unit 610.

[0134] The control unit 610 can analyze the results detected by the sensor unit 620 and control the subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 610 can control the power supplied to the heater 650 based on the results detected by the sensor unit 620, so that the heater 650 starts or stops operating. As another example, the control unit 610 can control the amount of electricity supplied to the heater 650 and the power supply time based on the results detected by the sensor unit 620, so that the heater 650 can heat to a predetermined temperature or maintain a suitable temperature.

[0135] The control unit 610 can control the output unit 630 based on the results detected by the sensor unit 620. For example, when the number of suctions counted by the suction sensor 626 reaches a preset number, the control unit 610 can notify the user that the aerosol generating device 600 is about to end through at least one of the display unit 632, the tactile unit 634, and the audio output unit 636.

[0136] In one embodiment, the control unit 610 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 650 based on the state of the aerosol generating article detected by the sensor unit 620. For example, when the aerosol generating article 15 is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 610 controls the power supply to the induction coil (e.g.: Figure 2 The power supply time of the induction coil 124) increases the preheating time relative to when the aerosol generating article 15 is in a normal state.

[0137] Figure 7This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 7 The aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to an embodiment may include a battery 110, a heater 120, an ultrasonic sensor 130, a control unit 140, and a memory 150. The battery, heater, control unit, and memory can perform functions related to… Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figure 6 Since the battery, heater, control unit, and memory have essentially the same functions, the descriptions that are repeated here will be omitted, and the focus will be on the modified or additional structures and operations.

[0138] The ultrasonic sensor 130 can output ultrasonic waves of multiple preset frequencies to the aerosol generating article 200, and can also receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol generating article 200. The ultrasonic sensor 130 can be disposed inside the aerosol generating device 100, and can be configured opposite to the receiving space containing the aerosol generating article 200. The ultrasonic sensor 130 may include a transducer that outputs ultrasonic signals and receives reflected ultrasonic waves.

[0139] The transducer can generate an electrical signal corresponding to the received ultrasonic waves by outputting ultrasonic waves into the containment space and receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the containment space.

[0140] The transducer may include a piezoelectric element. A piezoelectric element can be a material that generates physical vibrations when an electric current is applied, and is capable of converting these physical vibrations into electrical signals. Therefore, when battery 110 (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 When power from battery 110 is applied to the transducer, ultrasonic waves can be generated through the piezoelectric element. The ultrasonic waves generated by the transducer propagate into the containment space and can be reflected back to the object contained in the containment space, where they are then received by the transducer again. The piezoelectric element can be vibrated by the ultrasonic waves received by the transducer, thereby generating an electrical signal.

[0141] For example, the transducer can generate an electrical signal by simultaneously outputting ultrasonic waves to the containment space and receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol generating article 200, but is not limited thereto; as described later, it can receive ultrasonic waves received from a separate reflector.

[0142] As another example, when the ultrasonic wave output is stopped for a specified time, the transducer 170 can receive the ultrasonic wave reflected from the aerosol generating article 200, thereby generating an electrical signal.

[0143] In addition, the transducer can sequentially output ultrasonic signals of different preset frequencies according to the control of the control unit 140, and can receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol generating article 200 to generate electrical signals.

[0144] In addition, the transducer can adjust the frequency of the ultrasonic signal output according to the control of the control unit 140.

[0145] The transducer can be configured separately from the heater 120 along the length of the aerosol generating device 100. Therefore, the effect of the heat generated by the heater 120 on the transducer can be reduced, and the transducer can successfully receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol generating article 200 even during the operation of the heater 120.

[0146] The transducer can be positioned adjacent to the aerosol generating article 200 to output ultrasonic waves to the aerosol generating article 200 and to smoothly receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol generating article 200. For example, when the aerosol generating article 200 is contained within a receiving space, the transducer can be in direct contact with the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200, or it can be adjacent to the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200 but separated from it by a slight gap.

[0147] According to the embodiment, the ultrasonic sensing unit 130 can detect objects of various materials without being affected by the surface of the sample being detected.

[0148] The ultrasonic sensor 130 can detect objects or measure distances to them in a non-contact manner. The ultrasonic signal output from the transducer can be reflected from the sample and incident on the receiver.

[0149] When the receiver receives the reflected ultrasonic wave, it can be converted into an electrical signal using a piezoelectric element. The distance between the ultrasonic sensor 130 and the sample can be calculated using the sound propagation time. That is, by measuring the time difference (i.e., time lag) between the output time of the ultrasonic signal and the reception time of the reflected ultrasonic wave, the distance from the ultrasonic sensor 130 to the sample can be calculated based on the speed of sound. At room temperature, the measured speed of sound in air is approximately 344 m / s.

[0150] The detection accuracy of the ultrasonic sensor 130 can be affected by temperature. According to an embodiment, the ultrasonic sensor 130 may further include a compensation circuit to compensate for this temperature effect. The compensation circuit can pre-measure the temperature-induced offset and, taking into account the actual measurement environment, remove the resulting offset.

[0151] The ultrasonic sensor 130 may include multiple transducers. The multiple transducers can output ultrasonic signals of different frequencies according to the control of the control unit 140, and can receive corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves.

[0152] Alternatively, the ultrasonic sensor 130 can be composed of a transducer. The transducer outputs ultrasonic signals with multiple different frequencies at predetermined time intervals according to the control of the control unit 140, and can receive corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves.

[0153] The type of aerosol generating article 200 can be distinguished according to the amount or type of aerosol generating substance contained therein. According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating article 200 can be composed of a solid, liquid, or powder state, and can have the characteristic of reflecting sound waves.

[0154] The control unit 140 can determine the type of the aerosol generating article 200 contained in the containment space based on the electrical signal generated by the ultrasonic sensor unit 130.

[0155] In addition, the control unit 140 can control the operation of the heater 120 according to preset parameters based on the determined type of aerosol generating article 200.

[0156] The ratio of ultrasonic waves reflected from the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200 in the ultrasonic waves output by the ultrasonic sensor 130 to the aerosol generating article 200 can be determined by the material or shape of the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200. When the material or shape of the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 200 varies depending on the type of the aerosol generating article 200, the control unit 140 can use the electrical signal generated by the ultrasonic sensor 130 to identify the type of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0157] According to the embodiment, the control unit 140 can control the output of multiple ultrasonic signals with different frequencies from the transducer, and can analyze the aerosol-generating article 200 by analyzing the reflected ultrasonic waves with multiple different frequencies respectively.

[0158] When an ultrasonic signal propagates from one medium to another, a portion of the wave at the interface changes its propagation direction and returns to the original medium. The reflected signal can then be received by the transducer as a reflected ultrasonic wave.

[0159] Furthermore, when an ultrasonic signal passes through a medium, its strength energy is lost, resulting in a decrease in amplitude and intensity. This may manifest as a reduction in the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic signal. The attenuation of an ultrasonic signal can be proportional to its frequency.

[0160] Therefore, the control unit 140 can analyze the constituent substances of the aerosol generating article 200 by using the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic wave at multiple frequencies and the reception time of the corresponding reflected ultrasonic wave, and the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic wave and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic wave.

[0161] The ultrasonic sensor 130 can output a first ultrasonic signal having a first frequency and a second ultrasonic signal having a second frequency to the aerosol generating article 200. At this time, the first and second ultrasonic signals can be output by multiple transducers as described above, or by a single transducer sequentially outputting the first and second ultrasonic signals, thereby performing an action. In this embodiment, the sequential output of the first and second ultrasonic signals by a single transducer will be described as an example.

[0162] The transducer can receive a first ultrasonic signal reflected from the aerosol generating article 200 as a first ultrasonic signal and a second ultrasonic signal reflected from the aerosol generating article 200 as a second ultrasonic signal.

[0163] The control unit 140 can calculate a first time difference between the reception time of the first ultrasonic signal and the first reflected ultrasonic signal, and a first intensity difference between the intensity of the first ultrasonic signal and the intensity of the first reflected ultrasonic signal.

[0164] In addition, the control unit 140 can calculate a second time difference between the reception time of the second ultrasonic signal and the second reflected ultrasonic signal, and a second intensity difference between the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal and the intensity of the second reflected ultrasonic signal.

[0165] The control unit 140 can identify the type of aerosol generating article 200 using a first time difference, a first intensity difference, a second time difference, and a second intensity difference. For example, the control unit 140 calculates the average of the first time difference and the second time difference, and calculates the average of the first intensity difference and the second intensity difference, and identifies the type of aerosol generating article 200 by using each average value.

[0166] Since the attenuation of an ultrasonic signal is proportional to its frequency, the ultrasonic sensor 130 can obtain meaningful signal attenuation parameters from the aerosol generating articles 200 with various media types by outputting different frequency signals.

[0167] That is, when only one frequency signal is output to the aerosol generating article 200, the attenuation of the ultrasonic signal may not occur meaningfully depending on the type of medium constituting the aerosol generating article 200. However, since the ultrasonic sensing unit 130 according to the embodiment obtains the signal attenuation value by outputting multiple different frequencies to the aerosol generating article 200, it has the technical effect of being able to more accurately determine the type of medium constituting the aerosol generating article 200.

[0168] Furthermore, the control unit 140 can assign different weights to multiple frequencies to analyze the constituent substances of each region of the aerosol generating article 200. That is, by assigning a weight greater than 1 to ultrasonic signals at frequencies where the measured attenuation value of the substances constituting the aerosol generating article 200 is greater than a preset threshold and analyzing the type of the medium, the accuracy of the type analysis of the aerosol generating article 200 can be improved.

[0169] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 8 The control unit 140 uses output ultrasonic waves based on multiple frequencies and corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves to analyze the constituent materials of each region of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0170] The ultrasonic sensor 130 can output a first ultrasonic signal with a first frequency to a first region of the aerosol generating article 200, and output a second ultrasonic signal with a second frequency to a second region of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0171] The transducer can receive a first reflected ultrasonic signal reflected from a first region of the aerosol generating article 200 and a second reflected ultrasonic signal reflected from a second region of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0172] The control unit 140 can calculate a first time difference between the reception time of the first ultrasonic signal and the first reflected ultrasonic signal, and a first intensity difference between the intensity of the first ultrasonic signal and the intensity of the first reflected ultrasonic signal.

[0173] In addition, the control unit 140 can calculate a second time difference between the reception time of the second ultrasonic signal and the second reflected ultrasonic signal, and a second intensity difference between the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal and the intensity of the second reflected ultrasonic signal.

[0174] The control unit 140 can use the first time difference and the first intensity difference to identify the type of substance constituting the first region of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0175] In addition, the control unit 140 can use the second time difference and the second intensity difference to identify the type of substance constituting the second region of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0176] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the control unit according to another embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 9 The control unit 140 may include a deep learning model 141 that takes the output ultrasound and reflected ultrasound as input layers, learns the correlation between the output ultrasound and reflected ultrasound and the constituent materials of the aerosol generating article 200, and learns in a way that makes the constituent materials of the aerosol generating article 200 the output layer for the input output ultrasound and reflected ultrasound.

[0177] The deep learning model 141 of the control unit 140 does not perform learning itself, but transmits learning data to the remote learning server 1000 and applies the parameters received from the learning server 1000 to the stored deep learning algorithm, thereby generating the deep learning model 141.

[0178] The learning server 1000 receives output and reflected ultrasonic waves as learning data from multiple aerosol generating devices 100, and can learn from this learning data to extract parameters. For example, the learning server 1000 can use deep learning technology to learn the learning data, but is not limited to this; various technologies can be used to learn the learning data and extract parameters.

[0179] The learning server 1000 takes the signal extracted from the time-domain reflected ultrasonic signal as input, extracts the 1D feature vector for each time period through a 1D (dimension) convolutional layer, and thus determines the input to the classifier. Then, the learning server 1000 performs a Short-Time Fourier Transform on the received ultrasonic reflected signal by moving a window at regular time intervals, calculating the time-frequency domain signal, i.e., a two-dimensional spectrogram. It then converts the calculated 2D spectrogram into a time-based 1D signal and performs convolution on it. Depending on the requirements, the learning server 1000 can also perform convolution through a convolutional filter before converting the calculated 2D spectrogram into a time-based 1D signal.

[0180] Convolution can be performed using more than one convolutional layer. As mentioned above, the time-based 1D feature vectors computed through more than one convolutional layer are used as the input to the classifier.

[0181] The classifier is formed by a multi-layered artificial neural network. This type of classifier learns weights from training data within the same layered structure of the artificial neural network, thus determining the final classifier model. Here, a weight refers to the connection value of one or more layers in the artificial neural network.

[0182] Furthermore, combining the convolutional layer that calculates the 1D feature vector input to the classifier as described above with the classifier formed by multiple layers of artificial neural networks as described above, is called a convolutional neural network (CNN). Here, the aforementioned weights can also refer to the weights of the connection values ​​of one or more layers in the artificial neural network or the convolutional filter values ​​in the convolutional layer. This means that not only can the weights of the connection values ​​of one or more layers in the artificial neural network be determined through machine learning, but the convolutional filter values ​​in the convolutional layer can also be ultimately determined through machine learning. The learning server 1000 inputs the learning data into the artificial neural network and optimizes it using gradient descent in the direction of minimizing the difference (loss) between the output value and the actual answer.

[0183] The convolutional artificial neural network (CNN) model is determined by the weights finally determined through learning as described above or by the values ​​of the convolutional layer filters. This CNN model can be applied to the deep learning model 141 of the aerosol generation device 100 through a communication network.

[0184] By applying a deep learning model of the control unit with weight values ​​received from the learning server, and considering the input output ultrasound and reflected ultrasound, the probability value of each substance constituting the aerosol generating article 200 reflected by the ultrasound signal can be estimated. Thus, the substance with the highest probability value can be identified as the substance constituting the aerosol generating article 200.

[0185] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 10 The aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to an embodiment may include a battery 110, a heater 120, an ultrasonic sensor 130, a control unit 140, a memory 150, and a temperature sensor 160. The battery, heater, ultrasonic sensor, and memory can perform functions related to… Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7Since the battery, heater, ultrasonic sensor, and memory have essentially the same functions, the descriptions that are repeated here will be omitted, and the focus will be on the modified or additional structures and operations.

[0186] Temperature sensor 160 can be configured around aerosol generating article 200. Temperature sensor 160 can provide temperature data by measuring the ambient temperature of aerosol generating article 200.

[0187] The control unit 140 can use temperature data measured by the temperature sensor 160 to compensate for the time difference. The measurement precision of ultrasound is affected by air temperature. As the air temperature changes, the propagation of ultrasound is affected by the temperature, decreasing by 0.17% for every unit of temperature change per degree Celsius. This change affects the propagation time, thus causing distortion of the time difference.

[0188] The aerosol generating device 100 can be heated to very high temperatures by the heater 120, and the temperature deviation over time is very large before, during, and after the operation. Therefore, without this temperature compensation function, it is impossible to measure the accurate distance between the medium of the aerosol generating article 200 and the ultrasonic sensor 130 by the time difference.

[0189] Therefore, according to the embodiment, the control unit 140 can reflect the decrease in the propagation speed of the ultrasonic wave by using the temperature data measured by the temperature sensor 160 and reflect it in the time difference value, so that the accurate distance value between the aerosol generating articles 200 can be calculated independently of the operation of the heater 120.

[0190] In addition, the control unit 140 can use temperature data measured by the temperature sensor 160, output ultrasonic waves based on multiple frequencies, and corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves to analyze the state of the substances constituting the aerosol generating article 200.

[0191] For example, when the aerosol generating device 100 performs a smoking action using the aerosol generating article 200, the aerosol generating substance in the aerosol generating article 200 may be depleted. In this case, the used aerosol generating article 200 is discarded by the user. When the user reuses the used aerosol generating article 200, since at least a portion of the aerosol generating substance is depleted, the user may not be able to obtain sufficient smoking satisfaction from the reused aerosol generating article 200. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article 200 contained in the containment space is a reused aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating device 100 can identify it and control the heater 120 not to be heated.

[0192] In one embodiment, the control unit 140 uses temperature data measured by the temperature sensor 160, output ultrasonic waves based on multiple frequencies, and corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves to analyze the state of the constituent substances of the aerosol generating article 200, and when it is determined that the aerosol generating article 200 is a reusable aerosol generating article, it can control the heater 120 not to be heated.

[0193] The control unit 140 calculates the time difference and intensity difference for completing temperature compensation based on temperature data, and retrieves similar data values ​​by comparing the time difference and intensity difference stored in the memory. The control unit 140 extracts the constituent material of the aerosol generating article 200 with the most similar time difference and intensity difference, and compares the extracted data values ​​with the data values ​​for completing temperature compensation. Based on the difference, it can determine whether to use the constituent material of the aerosol generating article 200.

[0194] Reference Figure 11 When the temperature in the containment space of the aerosol generating device 100 rises due to the use of the heater 120, distortion of the ultrasonic signal occurs, resulting in changes in the time difference and intensity difference. The control unit 140 uses the temperature data to calculate compensation data to compensate for this distortion. After retrieving similar data stored in the memory, the control unit 140 extracts the substance corresponding to that data as a constituent substance of the aerosol generating article 200. Subsequently, the control unit 140 compares the memory data and the compensation data, and determines whether to use the constituent substance of the aerosol generating article 200 based on the difference.

[0195] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to yet another embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 12 The aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to an embodiment may include a battery 110, a heater 120, an ultrasonic sensor 130, a control unit 140, a memory 150, a liquid storage unit 170, and a reflector 180. The battery, heater, liquid storage unit, ultrasonic sensor, and memory can perform functions related to… Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 Since the battery, heater, liquid storage unit, ultrasonic sensor, and memory have essentially the same functions, the descriptions that are repeated here will be omitted, and the focus will be on the modified or additional structures and operations.

[0196] The reflector 180 can be configured at a predetermined interval from the liquid storage unit 170. The reflector 180 can be configured opposite to the ultrasonic sensor 130 and centered on the liquid storage unit 170. The reflector 180 is positioned at the point where the ultrasonic waves output from the ultrasonic sensor 130 pass through the liquid storage unit 170 and are incident upon it, and can reflect the incident ultrasonic waves and transmit them to the ultrasonic sensor 130.

[0197] The ultrasonic sensor 130 can output ultrasonic waves based on multiple preset frequencies to the liquid storage unit 170, and receive ultrasonic waves reflected from the liquid storage unit 170 and the reflector 180.

[0198] The control unit 140 can analyze the constituent substances of the aerosol generating article 200 by using the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic wave based on multiple frequencies and the corresponding reception time of the reflected ultrasonic wave, and the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic wave and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic wave.

[0199] The control unit 140 can filter reflected ultrasonic waves. When filtering reflected ultrasonic waves, the control unit 140 filters ultrasonic waves reflected from structures other than those reflected from the actual medium, thereby receiving and identifying only the intensity, shape, and signal of a specified frequency. Therefore, the control unit 140 can analyze the type of the aerosol-generating article 200 stored in the liquid storage unit 170.

[0200] When an ultrasonic signal propagates from one medium to another, a portion of the wave at the interface changes its propagation direction and returns to the original medium. The reflected signal can then be received by the transducer as a reflected ultrasonic wave.

[0201] Furthermore, when an ultrasonic signal passes through a medium, its strength energy is lost, resulting in a decrease in amplitude and intensity. This may manifest as a reduction in the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic signal. The attenuation of an ultrasonic signal can be proportional to its frequency.

[0202] In the case of a liquid stored in a liquid storage section, most of the ultrasonic signals are refracted or transmitted, making it difficult to receive a sufficient amount of reflected ultrasonic waves for analyzing the constituent substances. The aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to the embodiment addresses this by positioning a reflector 180 opposite the ultrasonic sensor 130 with the liquid storage section as the center, thereby reflecting the output ultrasonic waves refracted or transmitted from the liquid storage section toward the ultrasonic sensor 130.

[0203] Therefore, the control unit 140 can analyze the constituent substances of the liquid-based aerosol generating article 200 by using the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic wave based on multiple frequencies and the reception time of the reflected ultrasonic wave reflected by the reflector, and the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic wave and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic wave.

[0204] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 13First, the ultrasonic sensor outputs ultrasonic waves based on multiple preset frequencies to the aerosol generating article (S1301).

[0205] Next, the ultrasonic sensor receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol-generating article (S1302).

[0206] Next, the control unit calculates the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic wave based on multiple frequencies and the corresponding reception time of the reflected ultrasonic wave, as well as the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic wave and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic wave (S1303).

[0207] Secondly, the control unit uses time and intensity differences based on multiple frequencies to analyze the constituent substances of aerosol-generating articles (S1304).

[0208] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 14 First, the ultrasonic sensor outputs ultrasonic waves based on multiple preset frequencies to the aerosol generating article (S1401).

[0209] Next, the ultrasonic sensor receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol-generating article (S1402).

[0210] Next, the control unit calculates the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic wave based on multiple frequencies and the corresponding reception time of the reflected ultrasonic wave, as well as the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic wave and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic wave (S1403).

[0211] Secondly, the control unit assigns different weights to the time difference and intensity difference of each frequency according to the preset threshold and settings (S1404).

[0212] Secondly, the control unit uses time and intensity differences based on multiple frequencies with assigned weights to analyze the constituent substances of the aerosol-generating articles (S1405).

[0213] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 15 First, the ultrasonic sensor outputs ultrasonic waves of different frequencies to each area of ​​the aerosol-generating article (S1501).

[0214] Secondly, the ultrasonic sensor receives ultrasonic waves reflected from each area of ​​the aerosol-generating article (S1502).

[0215] Next, the control unit calculates the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic wave based on multiple frequencies and the corresponding reception time of the reflected ultrasonic wave, as well as the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic wave and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic wave (S1503).

[0216] Secondly, the control unit uses time and intensity differences based on multiple frequencies to analyze the constituent materials of each region of the aerosol-generating article (S1504).

[0217] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 16 First, the communication unit performs data communication with the external learning server to receive the parameters that constitute the deep learning model, namely the weight values ​​(S1601).

[0218] The control unit uses the received parameters to construct a deep learning model or update the stored deep learning model (S1602).

[0219] Secondly, the ultrasonic sensor outputs ultrasonic waves of different frequencies to each area of ​​the aerosol-generating article (S1603).

[0220] Secondly, the ultrasonic sensor receives ultrasonic waves reflected from each area of ​​the aerosol-generating article (S1604).

[0221] Secondly, the control unit inputs the output ultrasonic signal and the reflected ultrasonic signal into the deep learning model (S1605).

[0222] Secondly, the deep learning model estimates the probability value of each substance that constitutes the aerosol-generating article of the input output ultrasound and reflected ultrasound (S1606).

[0223] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the aerosol generation apparatus according to an embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 17 First, the ultrasonic sensor outputs ultrasonic waves based on multiple preset frequencies to the aerosol generating article (S1701).

[0224] Next, the ultrasonic sensor receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol-generating article (S1702).

[0225] Next, the control unit calculates the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic wave based on multiple frequencies and the corresponding reception time of the reflected ultrasonic wave, as well as the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic wave and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic wave (S1703).

[0226] Next, the control unit receives temperature data from the temperature sensor that measures the ambient temperature of the aerosol-generating article (S1704).

[0227] Secondly, the control unit uses temperature data measured by a temperature sensor to reflect the decrease in the propagation speed of ultrasonic waves, and compensates for the time difference by reflecting it in the time difference value (S1705).

[0228] Secondly, the control unit uses time and intensity differences based on multiple frequencies to analyze the constituent materials of each region of the aerosol-generating article (S1706).

[0229] Next, the control unit compares the data values ​​of the constituent substances retrieved from the memory with the data values ​​of temperature compensation, and determines whether to use the constituent substances of the article to generate an aerosol based on the difference (S1707).

[0230] One embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium including computer-executable commands, such as a computer-executable program module. A computer-readable medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer, including volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. Additionally, a computer-readable medium can include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented using any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data or other transmission mechanisms that modulate data signals, including any information transmission medium.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: The battery supplies the power required for the operation of the aerosol generating device. Heater, used to heat aerosol-generating articles. The ultrasonic sensor outputs ultrasonic waves based on multiple preset frequencies to the aerosol-generating article and receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the aerosol-generating article. The control unit analyzes the constituent materials of the aerosol-generating article by using the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic waves based on multiple frequencies and the reception time of the corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves, and the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic waves and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic waves.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit analyzes the constituent substances of the aerosol-generating article by assigning different weights to the multiple frequencies.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit uses output ultrasonic waves based on multiple frequencies and corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves to analyze the constituent materials of each region of the aerosol-generating article.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit includes a deep learning model that learns from the input output ultrasonic waves and reflected ultrasonic waves, using the constituent materials of the aerosol-generated article as the output layer.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a temperature sensor disposed around the aerosol-generating article.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit uses temperature data measured by the temperature sensor to compensate for the time difference.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control unit uses temperature data measured by the temperature sensor, output ultrasonic waves based on multiple frequencies, and corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves to analyze the state of the constituent substances of the aerosol-generating article.

8. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: The battery supplies the power required for the operation of the aerosol generating device. The liquid storage section is used to store aerosol-generating materials. The reflective portion is configured to be spaced apart from the liquid storage portion by a predetermined interval. The ultrasonic sensor outputs ultrasonic waves based on multiple preset frequencies to the liquid storage unit, and receives ultrasonic waves reflected from the liquid storage unit and the reflector. The control unit analyzes the constituent materials of the aerosol-generating article by using the time difference between the transmission time of the output ultrasonic waves based on multiple frequencies and the reception time of the corresponding reflected ultrasonic waves, and the intensity difference between the intensity of the output ultrasonic waves and the intensity of the reflected ultrasonic waves.

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