Aerosol-generating device comprising liquid level sensor

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device may include: a chamber storing a liquid aerosol-generating substance; a main body including a partition wall facing the chamber; a conductive member provided on a surface of the chamber facing the partition wall; and a liquid level sensor that senses an amount of the liquid aerosol-generating substance stored in the chamber, where the liquid level sensor may sense the amount of the liquid aerosol-generating substance by applying a current to the conductive member and measuring a voltage value that varies according to a capacity of the liquid aerosol-generating substance.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Various embodiments described in the disclosure relate to an aerosol generating device including a liquid level sensor. BACKGROUND

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative products that overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing need for devices that generate aerosols by electrically heating a cigarette stick (e.g., a cigarette-type electronic cigarette). Research on cigarette sticks (or aerosol generating articles) and electrically heated aerosol generating devices into which the cigarette sticks are inserted has also been active.

[0003] The above background art is what the inventors have grasped or learned in the course of developing the present invention, and should not be understood as necessarily being prior art that was publicly known before the filing of the present invention. SUMMARY

[0004] Technical Problem to be Solved An aerosol generating device can accommodate a liquid aerosol generating material in a chamber and atomize the same. As the liquid aerosol generating material is consumed, the aerosol generating device can detect the amount of the liquid aerosol generating material remaining in the chamber and display a change in the capacity of the liquid aerosol generating material.

[0005] However, the dielectric constant of the liquid aerosol generating material can vary depending on various factors, such as the raw material, concentration, and composition ratio of the liquid aerosol generating material, and thus, the detection result of the remaining amount of the liquid aerosol generating material can have an error.

[0006] Technical Solution to Problem An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can include a chamber storing a liquid aerosol generating material, a main body including a partition wall facing the chamber, a conductive member disposed on one side of the chamber facing the partition wall, and a liquid level sensor sensing the amount of the liquid aerosol generating material stored in the chamber. In an embodiment, the liquid level sensor can sense the amount of the liquid aerosol generating material by applying a current to the conductive member and measuring a voltage value that varies according to the capacity of the liquid aerosol generating material.

[0007] In an embodiment, the liquid level sensor can include an electrode unit configured to face the conductive member and apply a current to the conductive member.

[0008] In an embodiment, the conductive member can be formed in a bar shape extending in a direction in which the chamber extends.

[0009] In an embodiment, the conductive member can include a first conductive region and a second conductive region disposed apart from each other.

[0010] In an embodiment, the first conductive region and the second conductive region can be arranged in parallel to each other.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first conductive region and the second conductive region can be formed in the same shape.

[0012] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device can further include at least one processor that receives a detection result from the liquid level sensor and controls driving of the aerosol generating device. In an embodiment, the at least one processor receives a detection result of each of the first conductive region and the second conductive region, and can correct the detection result of the liquid level sensor.

[0013] In an embodiment, the at least one processor can correct the detection result of the liquid level sensor by an average value of the detection result of each of the first conductive region and the second conductive region.

[0014] In an embodiment, the conductive member can further include an insulating region disposed between the first conductive region and the second conductive region.

[0015] In an embodiment, the conductive member can be formed in a shape that is bent at least once in a direction in which the chamber extends.

[0016] In an embodiment, the conductive member can be connected to the chamber in a structure that protrudes from one face of the chamber.

[0017] In an embodiment, the chamber can include a recess region formed on a face to which the conductive member is connected, and accommodating the conductive member.

[0018] In an embodiment, the conductive member can be disposed inside the recess region such that the one face of the chamber and the conductive member form a flat face.

[0019] In an embodiment, the chamber can be formed of a conductive resin, a conductive polymer material, or a conductive organic chemical substance.

[0020] In an embodiment, the chamber can be formed of a conductive material having a relatively lower conductivity than the conductive member.

[0021] Effects of Invention An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the disclosure can improve detection accuracy of a liquid level sensor for detecting an amount of a liquid aerosol generating material in a chamber, by a conductive member disposed on an outer circumferential face of the chamber.

[0022] Also, the aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment can correct the detection result of the liquid level sensor by using a plurality of conductive members, and the plurality of conductive members can be arranged in various ways.

[0023] However, the effects of the aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment are not limited to the above-mentioned content, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] The accompanying drawings illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure and together with the detailed description, serve to provide an understanding of the technical idea of the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure should not be understood to be limited to the embodiment set forth in the accompanying drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 5 is a sectional view of a cartridge of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 6 is a partial sectional view of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 7a is a perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 7b is a perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 7c is a perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 7d is a perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or similar constituent elements are given the same reference numerals regardless of the drawings and repetitive description thereof will be omitted.

[0036] The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description for constituent elements are given or used interchangeably for convenience of description of the specification, and do not have different meanings or roles by themselves.

[0037] Also, in describing the embodiments, when it is judged that a detailed description of related known technology will unnecessarily obscure the embodiments, detailed description thereof is omitted. Also, the drawings are merely for ease of understanding of the embodiments disclosed in the specification, and the technical idea disclosed in the specification is not limited thereto, but should be understood to include all changes, equivalents, or substitutions within the scope of the idea and technology of the disclosure.

[0038] The terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" or "second" can be used to describe various constituent elements, however, the above-described constituent elements are not limited by the above terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one constituent element from another.

[0039] When it is described that one constituent element is "connected" or "coupled" to another constituent element, it can be directly connected or attached to the other constituent element, however, it can also be understood that there are other constituent elements therebetween. In contrast, when it is described that one constituent element is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another constituent element, it can be understood that there are no other constituent elements therebetween. Also, in the case where there is no special description in the context, the singular expression includes the plural meaning.

[0040] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment.

[0041] Referring to Figure 1 , the aerosol generating device 1 can include a power supply 11, a control part 12, a sensor 13, an output part 14, an input part 15, a communication part 16, a storage 17, and at least one heater (a heater 18 or a cartridge heater 24).

[0042] However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to Figure 1 shown. It is easy for those skilled in the art to understand that the components shown in Figure 1 may be omitted or further other components can be added according to different designs of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0043] In an embodiment, the sensor 13 can detect a state of the aerosol generating device 1 or a surrounding state of the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the detected information to the control part 12. The control part 12 can control the aerosol generating device 1 to perform other functions based on the detected information, such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, limiting smoking, judging whether a cigarette stick and / or a cartridge is inserted, displaying a notification, etc.

[0044] In an embodiment, the sensor 13 can include at least one of a temperature sensor 13a, a puff sensor 13b, an insertion detection sensor 13c, a reuse detection sensor 13d, a cartridge detection sensor 13e, a cap detection sensor 13f, and a motion detection sensor 13g.

[0045] In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 13a can detect a heating temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The aerosol generating device 1 can include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 itself can function as a temperature sensor.

[0046] In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 13a can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 13a can include a resistance element whose resistance value changes in response to a change in the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The temperature sensor 13a can be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that utilizes the characteristic that resistance changes with temperature. At this time, the temperature sensor 13a can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0047] For example, the temperature sensor 13a can be configured as a sensor for detecting the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. At this time, the temperature sensor 13a can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0048] In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 13a can be disposed around the power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor 13a can be disposed near the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 13a can be attached to one side of a battery that is the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 13a can be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0049] In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 13a can be disposed inside the main body to sense the internal temperature of the main body.

[0050] In an embodiment, the puff sensor 13b can detect a puff of the user based on various physical changes of the airflow path. The puff sensor 13b can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 13b can be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 13b 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 in the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 13b can be disposed corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0051] In an embodiment, the insertion detection sensor 13c can detect that the cigarette rod is inserted and / or removed. The insertion detection sensor 13c can sense a signal change according to the insertion and / or removal of the cigarette rod. The insertion detection sensor 13c can be mounted in the vicinity of the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 13c can detect the insertion and / or removal of the cigarette rod according to the change in the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 13c can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0052] In an embodiment, the inductive sensor can include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor can be disposed in the vicinity of the insertion space. For example, when the magnetic field around the coil through which the current flows changes, the properties of the current flowing through the coil can change according to Faraday's law. Here, the properties of the current flowing through the coil can include the frequency of alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0053] In an embodiment, the inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the properties of the current flowing through the coil. For example, the inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0054] In an embodiment, the capacitive sensor can include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor can be disposed in the vicinity of the insertion space. The capacitive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic properties of the surrounding environment (for example, the capacitance around the conductor). For example, when the cigarette rod including the metal wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic properties around the conductor can change due to the wrapper of the cigarette rod.

[0055] In one embodiment, the reuse detection sensor 13d can detect whether the cigarette stick has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 13d can be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the cigarette stick. The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of the outer packaging surrounding the cigarette stick. The color sensor can detect the value of an optical property corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property can be the wavelength of light. The color sensor can be implemented as a single component together with a proximity sensor, or it can be implemented as a separate component from the proximity sensor.

[0056] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the packaging constituting the cigarette stick may change color due to aerosol. The detection sensor 13d can then be positioned corresponding to the location of at least a portion of the packaging that has changed color due to aerosol when the cigarette stick is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the user uses the cigarette stick, the color of at least a portion of the packaging may be a first color. At this time, when the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 1 passes through the cigarette stick, at least a portion of the packaging is moistened by the aerosol, and the color of at least a portion of the packaging may change to a second color. Furthermore, after changing from the first color to the second color, the color of at least a portion of the packaging may remain the second color.

[0057] In one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor 13e can detect the insertion and / or removal of a cartridge. The cartridge detection sensor 13e can be implemented by an inductively based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (hall IC) utilizing the Hall effect.

[0058] In one embodiment, the cap detection sensor 13f can detect the installation and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is removed from the body, the cartridge covered by the cap and a portion of the body may be exposed. The cap detection sensor 13f can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0059] In one embodiment, the motion detection sensor 13g can detect the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion detection sensor 13g can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0060] In addition to the sensors described above, sensor 13 may also include at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), and a proximity sensor. Since those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0061] In one embodiment, the output unit 14 can output status information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. The output unit 14 may include at least one of the display 14a, the haptic unit 14b, and the sound output unit 14c, but is not limited thereto. When the display 14a and the touchpad are stacked to form a touch screen, the display 14a can be used not only as an output device but also as an input device.

[0062] In one embodiment, the display 14a can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user.

[0063] For example, information regarding the aerosol generating device 1 may include various information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery 11, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the stick and / or cartridge, the installation / removal status of the cap, or the usage limitation status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., an anomaly detected), and the display 14a may output the information to an external source. For example, the display 14a may be an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display 14a may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting display (OLED), etc.

[0064] In one embodiment, the tactile unit 14b can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimulation to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 1. For example, when initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 for a set time, the tactile unit 14b can generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. For example, the tactile unit 14b may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0065] In one embodiment, the sound output unit 14c can provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user via sound. For example, the sound output unit 14c can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output it to the outside.

[0066] In one embodiment, the power source 11 can provide the electrical power required for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The power source 11 can supply power to heat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Furthermore, the power source 11 can provide the electrical power required for the operation of other components in the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17). The power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0067] although Figure 1 As not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0068] In one embodiment, the power supply protection circuit can disconnect the power supply 11 under predetermined conditions. For example, when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to a first voltage corresponding to overcharging, the power supply protection circuit can disconnect the power supply 11. For example, when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharging, the power supply protection circuit can disconnect the power supply 11.

[0069] In one embodiment, heater 18 can receive power from power source 11 to heat the medium or aerosol-generating substance in the smoke rod. Although Figure 1 Although not shown, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the power source 11 to supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Additionally, when the aerosol generating apparatus 1 generates aerosol using induction heating, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a DC / AC converter to convert the direct current from the power source 11 to alternating current.

[0070] In one embodiment, the control unit 12, sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17 can receive power from the power supply 11 to perform their functions. Although Figure 1 Not shown, it may also include power conversion circuits that convert the power of power supply 11 and supply it to the various components, such as low dropout (LDO) circuits or voltage regulator circuits. Additionally, although... Figure 1 Although not shown, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and at least one 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, for example, by inserting a detection sensor 13c.

[0071] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be made of any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nickel-chromium, etc., but are not limited thereto. Furthermore, the heater 18 can be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with conductive tracks, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0072] In one embodiment, heater 18 may be an induction heating heater. For example, heater 18 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0073] In one embodiment, the input unit 15 can receive information input by the user and can also output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 can be a touch panel. The touch panel can include at least one touch sensor for sensing 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., but is not limited to these.

[0074] In one embodiment, the display 14a and the touch panel can be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be inserted into the display 14a (e.g., on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel can be added to the display 14a (e.g., add-on type).

[0075] In addition, the input unit 15 may include buttons, a keyboard, a dome switch, a scroll wheel, a scroll wheel switch, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0076] In one embodiment, the memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed by the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. The memory 17 can be at least one storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro memory, card-type memory (such as SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory 17 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, the maximum number of pumps, the current number of pumps, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0077] In one embodiment, the communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0078] A short-range wireless communication unit can include Bluetooth communication units, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication units, Near Field Communication units, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication units, Zigbee communication units, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication units, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication units, Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication units, Ant+ communication units, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0079] The wireless communications division may include, but is not limited to, cellular network communications division, internet communications division, computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communications division, etc.

[0080] although Figure 1As not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 also includes a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, which can be used to connect with other external devices to send and receive information or to charge the power supply 11.

[0081] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as a plurality of logic gate arrays, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the at least one processor may be other forms of hardware.

[0082] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the power supply from the power source 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 13a. The control unit 12 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0083] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11, located between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, heater 18, or induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented using a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 may control the power supply circuit.

[0084] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit can be an inverter, which converts the direct current output from the power supply 11 into alternating current. For example, the inverter can be configured as a half-bridge circuit or a full-bridge circuit including multiple switching elements.

[0085] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can activate a switching element to supply power from the power source 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 can deactivate the switching element to cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 can regulate the current supplied from the power source 11 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulses input to the switching element.

[0086] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. A power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter for reducing the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0087] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can adjust the voltage level output by the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of a switching element included in the power conversion circuit. During the on state of the switching element, the voltage level output by the power conversion circuit can correspond to the voltage level output by 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 by the power conversion circuit to the voltage output by the power supply 11. As the duty cycle of the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the voltage level output by the power conversion circuit can decrease. The heater 18 can heat based on the voltage output by the power conversion circuit.

[0088] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) scheme.

[0089] For example, the control unit 12 can control the supply of current pulses with a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heater 18 using a PWM scheme. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses.

[0090] For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature, i.e., the control objective, based on the temperature curve. The control unit 12 can use a PID scheme to control the power supplied to the heater 18, wherein the PID scheme is a feedback control scheme based on the difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0091] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to stop supplying power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeding a preset temperature limit. For example, the control unit 12 can reduce the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a predetermined ratio based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeding a preset temperature limit. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge has been depleted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeding the temperature limit, and cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24.

[0092] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can determine the temperature of the power supply 11 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 13a.

[0093] In one embodiment, when the power cord is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generating device 1, the control unit 12 can determine whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to a first temperature limit, which is the standard for cutting off charging of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is less than the first temperature limit, the control unit 12 can control the charging of the power supply 11 according to a preset charging current. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to the first temperature limit, the control unit 12 can cut off charging of the power supply 11.

[0094] In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 1 is powered on, the control unit 12 can determine whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to a second temperature limit, which is the standard for cutting off the discharge of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is less than the second temperature limit, the control unit 12 can control the use of the power stored in the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to the second temperature limit, the control unit 12 can stop using the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0095] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage of the power supply 11 and / or the sensed current value.

[0096] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether the tobacco stick is inserted into the insertion space using the insertion detection sensor 13c. The control unit 12 can determine whether the tobacco stick is inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 13c. When it is determined that the tobacco stick has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 according to the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0097] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether the tobacco stick has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the tobacco stick has been removed from the insertion space by using the insertion detection sensor 13c. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the tobacco stick has been removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater 18 is greater than or equal to the temperature limit, or when the temperature change gradient of the heater 18 is greater than or equal to a set gradient. When it is determined that the tobacco stick has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0098] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 18 based on the state of the tobacco stick detected by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can confirm the level range including the signal level of the capacitive sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can determine the moisture content in the tobacco stick based on the confirmed level range.

[0099] In one embodiment, when the tobacco stick is in an overly wet state, the control unit 12 can increase the preheating time of the tobacco stick relative to the case where the tobacco stick is in a normal state by controlling the power supply time of the heater 18.

[0100] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether the tobacco stick inserted into the insertion space has been reused by using the reuse detection sensor 13d. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor 13d with a first reference range including a first color, and determine that the tobacco stick has not been used when the sensed value falls within the first reference range. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor 13d with a second reference range including a second color, and determine that the tobacco stick has been used when the sensed value falls within the second reference range. When it is determined that the tobacco stick has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0101] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether a cartridge is installed and / or removed using the cartridge detection sensor 13e. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a cartridge is installed and / or removed based on the sensed value of the signal from the cartridge detection sensor 13e.

[0102] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge is depleted. For example, the control unit 12 can preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by applying electricity, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a temperature limit during preheating, and determine that the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge is depleted when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the temperature limit. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge is depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0103] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge is usable. For example, when the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge based on data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge is unusable. For example, when the total heating time of the heater 24 is greater than or equal to a preset maximum time, or when the total power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than or equal to a preset maximum power, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge is unusable.

[0104] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine the user's inhalation using the inhalation sensor 13b. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether an inhalation has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the inhalation sensor 13b. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the inhalation intensity based on the sensing value of the signal from the inhalation sensor 13b. When the number of inhalations reaches a preset maximum number of inhalations or when no inhalation is detected for a preset time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0105] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether the lid is engaged and / or removed using the lid detection sensor 13f. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the lid is engaged and / or removed based on the sensed value of the signal from the lid detection sensor 13f.

[0106] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the sensing results of the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 13b reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can notify the user that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end via at least one of the display 14a, the tactile unit 14b, and the sound output unit 14c. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user via the output unit 14 based on the determination that the tobacco stick is not in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user via the output unit 14 based on the determination that the tobacco cartridge and / or the cap are not installed. For example, the control unit 12 can provide the user with information about the temperature of the tobacco cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 via the output unit 14.

[0107] In one embodiment, based on the occurrence of a predetermined event, the control unit 12 can store and update the historical record of the events in the memory 17. Events may include detecting the insertion of a tobacco stick, starting heating of the tobacco stick, detecting inhalation, ending inhalation, detecting overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, detecting overvoltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, ending heating of the tobacco stick, turning the power supply of the aerosol generating device 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 11, detecting overcharging of the power supply 11, ending charging of the power supply 11, etc., and these operations are performed by the aerosol generating device 1. The historical record of events may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is the detection of tobacco stick insertion, the log data corresponding to that event may include data on the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor 13c. For example, if the predetermined event is the detection of overheating of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, and the current flowing in cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0108] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the establishment of a communication link with an external device (e.g., a user's mobile terminal). When authentication data is received from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the authentication data may include data indicating that user authentication corresponding to the external device has been completed. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique identifier for the user, etc., and receive permission data for using the aerosol generating device 1 from an external server. The external device can send data indicating that user authentication has been completed to the aerosol generating device 1 based on the permission data. In response to the completion of user authentication, the control unit 12 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, in response to the completion of user authentication, the control unit 12 can remove restrictions on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater 18.

[0109] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can transmit the status data of the aerosol generating device 1 to an external device via a communication link. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generating device 1, operating mode, etc., through its display.

[0110] In one embodiment, an external device can transmit a location search request to the aerosol generating device 1 based on an input initiating a search for the location of the aerosol generating device 1. When a location search request is received from the external device, the control unit 12 can control at least one output device to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, in response to the location search request, the haptic unit 14b can generate vibration. For example, in response to the location search request, the display 14a can output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0111] In one embodiment, when firmware data is received from an external device, the control unit 12 can control the execution of a firmware update. The external device can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether a new firmware version exists. When an input requesting firmware download is received, the external device can receive the new firmware data and transmit the new firmware data to the aerosol generating device 1. When the new firmware data is received, the control unit 12 can control the update of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0112] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can transmit the sensing value data of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, receive a learning model generated by learning the sensing values ​​through machine learning (e.g., deep learning) from the external server, and store the learning model. The control unit 12 can use the learning model received from the external server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve. The control unit 12 can store the sensing value data of 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 provided in the aerosol generating device 1, weights for forming the ANN structure, and bias. The control unit 12 can generate at least one learning model that learns the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, temperature curve, etc., stored in the memory 17, and uses it to determine the user's inhalation pattern and generate a temperature curve.

[0113] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to one embodiment. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to one embodiment.

[0114] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus 50 (e.g., Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 1) may include at least a portion of the main body 100 and the case 200.

[0115] In the following description, any content that overlaps with the foregoing will be omitted, and it should be understood that, to the extent readily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the following figures and description, some components and structures of the aerosol generating device 50 may be replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, unless technically clearly impractical, at least one component or feature of the above embodiments may be combined with the aerosol generating device 50.

[0116] In one embodiment, the body 100 may include a first body 110 and a second body 120. The second body 120 may be located above the first body 110 (e.g., in the +Z direction). The first body 110 may extend vertically (e.g., in the Z-axis direction). The body 100 may house components for driving the device within it.

[0117] In one embodiment, the second body 120 may provide an insertion space 134 with an upward opening. The insertion space 134 may be located inside the second body 120. The insertion space 134 may extend vertically. The insertion space 134 may be formed in a conduit 130 located inside the second body 120.

[0118] In one embodiment, the housing 200 may have a hollow shape with an opening to the lower portion (e.g., in the -Z direction). A second body 120 may be inserted into the hollow of the housing 200. The housing 200 is detachably connected to the body 100. The housing 200 may surround and cover the second body 120.

[0119] In one embodiment, the lateral portion 211 of the housing 200 may surround and cover the sidewall 121 of the second body 120. The upper portion 212 of the housing 200 may cover the upper portion of the second body 120 or the cover 180. When the housing 200 is connected to the body 100, the housing 200 may simultaneously cover the body 100 and the cartridge 300. The cartridge 300 may be disposed inside the housing 200.

[0120] In one embodiment, the insertion port 214 can be formed by opening the upper portion 212 of the housing 200. The insertion port 214 can correspond to the opening of the insertion space 134. The cover 215 can be movably mounted in the upper portion 212 of the housing 200. A sliding hole 213 can extend from the insertion port 214 to one side of the upper portion 212 of the housing 200. The cover 215 can move along the sliding hole 213. The cover 215 can open and close the insertion port 214 and the insertion space 134. A cigarette stick S can be inserted into the insertion space 134 through the insertion port 214. For example, the cigarette stick S can be a cigarette.

[0121] In one embodiment, sidewall 121 and partition wall 125 may form the side of the second body 120. Sidewall 121 and partition wall 125 may be connected to each other. Sidewall 121 may be covered by the inner surface of housing 200. Partition wall 125 may separate cartridge coupling space 124a from insertion space 134.

[0122] In one embodiment, the partition wall 125 may be configured to face the cartridge 300. For example, the partition wall 125 may face the chamber of the cartridge 300 (e.g., Figure 5 and Figure 6 The chamber C1 is used to store liquid aerosol-generating substances.

[0123] In one embodiment, the second body 120 may include a mounting portion 122. The mounting portion 122 may extend to one side from the lower portion of the partition wall 125. The mounting portion 122 may be formed on the upper side of the first body 110. The mounting portion 122 may cover the lower portion of the cartridge coupling space 124a. The bottom surface of the cartridge 300 may be located on and supported by the mounting portion 122.

[0124] In one embodiment, the second body 120 may include an extension 140. The extension 140 may extend to one side from the upper portion of the partition wall 125. The extension 140 may extend along the forming direction of the mounting portion 122. The extension 140 may cover the upper portion of the cartridge coupling space 124a. The extension 140 may cover the upper end face of the cartridge 300. The extension 140 may cover the cartridge inlet 301 formed in the cartridge 300. A gap may be formed between the extension 140 and the cartridge inlet 301 to allow airflow.

[0125] In one embodiment, the cartridge coupling space 124a may be formed on one side of the second body 120. The cartridge coupling space 124a may be defined by the mounting portion 122, the partition wall 125, and the extension 140 of the second body 120. The bottom of the cartridge coupling space 124a may be covered by the mounting portion 122. One side of the cartridge coupling space 124a may be covered by the partition wall 125 of the second body 120. The upper side of the cartridge coupling space 124a may be covered by the extension 140. The cartridge coupling space 124a may be open outward between the mounting portion 122 and the extension 140.

[0126] In one embodiment, the cartridge 300 can be inserted into the cartridge coupling space 124a and connected to the body 100. The cartridge 300 can be detachably connected to the body 100. One side 311 of the cartridge 300 can face the partition wall 125. The upper end face 312 of the cartridge 300 can be covered by the extension 140. The bottom surface 322 of the cartridge 300 can be located on the mounting portion 122. The cartridge terminal 128 can be connected to the cartridge 300 and supply power to the heater 342 inside the cartridge 300.

[0127] In one embodiment, a coupling hook 125a may be formed in the second body 120. A pusher 125b may be formed in the second body 120. The coupling hook 125a and the pusher 125b may be formed in pairs on both sides and disposed opposite to each other. The cartridge 300 may include a hook-type coupling groove 315. The hook-type coupling groove 315 may be formed at a position corresponding to the coupling hook 125a. When the cartridge 300 is inserted into the cartridge coupling space 124a, the coupling hook 125a may connect with the hook-type coupling groove 315, thereby connecting the cartridge 300 to the body 100. The pusher 125b and the coupling hook 125a may move in conjunction. Pressing the pusher 125b may cause the coupling hook 125a to move in a direction away from the hook-type coupling groove 315, thereby allowing the cartridge 300 to be detached from the body 100.

[0128] In one embodiment, a connecting flow path 133 may be formed at the lower part of the partition wall 125. The connecting flow path 133 may communicate with the insertion space 134. The connecting flow path 133 may be open to one side of the second body 120. When the cartridge 300 is connected to the body 100, the outlet 323 may be inserted into the connecting flow path 133, and the connecting flow path 133 and the cartridge outlet 304 may communicate with each other.

[0129] In one embodiment, a liquid level sensor 260 may be provided within the main body 100. For example, the liquid level sensor 260 may be disposed in the partition wall 125 of the second main body 120. The liquid level sensor 260 may be a sensor of the aerosol generating device 50 (e.g., Figure 1 The level sensor 260 is a component of the sensor 13. The level sensor 260 can sense the volume or water level of the liquid aerosol-generating substance stored in the chamber C1. The level sensor 260 can be a water level sensor or a volume sensor.

[0130] In one embodiment, a button 241 may be provided in the main body 100. For example, the button 241 may be provided on the outer surface of the first main body 110. The button 241 may be an input section of the aerosol generating device 50 (e.g., Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 50 is a component of the input section 15. The user can turn the aerosol generating device 50 on / off by pressing button 241. Alternatively, the user can provide input signals to the aerosol generating device 50 in various ways, such as by pressing, rotating or touching button 241.

[0131] In one embodiment, a display 243 may be provided in the main body 100. For example, the display 243 may be disposed on the outer surface of the first main body 110. The display 243 may be the output section of the aerosol generating device 50 (e.g., Figure 1 The components of the output section 14) (e.g., Figure 1The display 243 can intuitively display various driving information, such as the driving status of the aerosol generating device 50, battery information, and capacity information of the liquid aerosol generating substance.

[0132] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the smoke cartridge 300 of the aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the smoke cartridge 300 of the aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to one embodiment.

[0133] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The smoke cartridge 300 may include a first container 31 and a second container 32.

[0134] In the following description, any content that overlaps with the foregoing will be omitted, and it should be understood that, to the extent readily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the following figures and description, some components and structures of the cartridge 300 and the aerosol generating device 50 including therein can be replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, unless technically clearly impractical, at least one component or feature of the above embodiments can be combined with the cartridge 300 and the aerosol generating device 50 including therein.

[0135] In one embodiment, the first container 31 may be connected to the upper side of the second container 32. The plate 35 may be connected between the first container 31 and the second container 32, or between the first container 31 and the frame 33.

[0136] In one embodiment, the first container 31 may have a chamber C1 for storing liquid aerosol-generating substances therein. The first container 31 may surround the chamber C1, and the lower part of the chamber C1 may be open. The opening of the chamber C1 may be covered by a plate 35. The chamber C1 may be a first chamber, a main chamber, a cartridge chamber, or a storage container.

[0137] In one embodiment, the first container 31 may have an inflow path 302 for air to pass through. The chamber C1 and the inflow path 302 may be separate from each other. The inflow path 302 may extend vertically to one side of the first container 31.

[0138] In one embodiment, the first container 31 may have a cartridge inlet 301. The cartridge inlet 301 may be open, formed in the upper part of the first container 31, and may communicate with the inflow path 302. The cartridge inlet 301 may communicate with the upper end of the inflow path 302. The lower end of the inflow path 302 may communicate with the connection hole 351 and the chamber inlet 303.

[0139] In one embodiment, the second container 32 may be coupled to the lower portion of the first container 31. The second container 32 may have a space 324 that is open at the top and covered at the bottom. The frame 33 may be accommodated inside the space 324 of the second container 32.

[0140] In one embodiment, the second container 32 may have a cartridge outlet 304. The cartridge outlet 304 may be formed in a side portion 321 of the second container 32.

[0141] In one embodiment, the cartridge outlet 304 may be formed inside a port protruding in the thickness direction from the side of the second container 32. The cartridge outlet 304 may communicate with the space 324. The second container 32 may include an outlet 323.

[0142] In one embodiment, the outlet 323 may form a cartridge outlet 304 within it. The outlet 323 may protrude to one side from one side portion 321 of the second container 32. The outlet 323 may surround the cartridge outlet 304. The cartridge outlet 304 may be referred to as the outlet.

[0143] In one embodiment, the frame 33 can be inserted into and coupled to the space 324 inside the second container 32. Fastening members 326 protruding from the sidewall of the second container 32 into the space 324 can be fastened to the frame 33 to secure it.

[0144] In one embodiment, the frame 33 may have an atomizing chamber C2 inside. The frame 33 may surround the atomizing chamber C2, and the upper part of the atomizing chamber C2 may be open. The upper part of the atomizing chamber C2 may be covered by a plate 35. The atomizing chamber C2 may be a second chamber or an atomizing space.

[0145] In one embodiment, the frame 33 may have a chamber inlet 303. One side of the sidewall surrounding the atomizing chamber C2 may be open, forming the chamber inlet 303. The chamber inlet 303 may bend upward and extend from the atomizing chamber C2 toward the inflow path 302. One end of the chamber inlet 303 may communicate with the atomizing chamber C2, and the other end of the chamber inlet 303 may be connected to the inflow path 302 and the connection hole 351.

[0146] In one embodiment, the frame 33 may have a chamber outlet 332. The chamber outlet 332 may be formed on one side of the frame 33. The chamber outlet 332 may communicate with the atomizing chamber C2. The chamber outlet 332 may be formed inside a port protruding from the side of the frame 33 along the thickness direction.

[0147] In one embodiment, the chamber outlet 332 may communicate with the atomizing chamber C2. The chamber outlet 332 may be formed at a position corresponding to the cartridge outlet 304. The chamber outlet 332 may be formed relative to the atomizing chamber C2 at a position opposite to the chamber inlet 303. When the frame 33 is coupled to the second container 32, the chamber outlet 332 and the cartridge outlet 304 may communicate with each other.

[0148] In one embodiment, the frame 33 may have a core coupling groove 334 inside it. The core coupling groove 334 may communicate with the atomizing chamber C2. The core coupling groove 334 may be formed such that the atomizing chamber C2 is recessed to one side. The core coupling grooves 334 may be formed in pairs, and a pair of core coupling grooves 334 may be formed on opposite sides of the atomizing chamber C2. The upper part of the core coupling groove 334 may be open.

[0149] In one embodiment, the core 341 may be a horizontally elongated cylinder within the atomizing chamber C2. Each end of the core 341 may be inserted into a corresponding one of a pair of core coupling slots 334. The central portion of the core 341 may be located within the atomizing chamber C2. The core 341 may be connected to chamber C1 and receive liquid aerosol-generated substances from chamber C1. The core 341 may be secured to the core coupling slots 334 via a frame 33 and a plate 35.

[0150] In one embodiment, heater 342 may be wound around the central portion of core 341. Heater 342 can heat core 341. For example, heater 342 may be a resistance heater. Heater 342 may be disposed in atomizing chamber C2. The end of heater 342 may pass through the bottom of frame 33 and be electrically connected to an electrode disposed at the bottom of second container 32.

[0151] In one embodiment, plate 35 may be connected between the first container 31 and the second container 32, or between the first container 31 and the frame 33. Plate 35 of frame 33 may cover and seal the opening of chamber C1. Plate 35 may cover the upper part of frame 33. Plate 35 may cover and seal the opening of atomizing chamber C2.

[0152] In one embodiment, plate 35 may have a connection hole 351 on one side. The connection hole 351 may be located between the inflow path 302 and the chamber inlet 303. The connection hole 351 can connect the inflow path 302 to the chamber inlet 303.

[0153] In one embodiment, plate 35 may have liquid inlet holes 354. Liquid inlet holes 354 may be formed in pairs at positions corresponding to core coupling grooves 334. A pair of liquid inlet holes 354 may be located on the upper sides of both ends of core 341. Liquid inlet holes 354 can connect chamber C1 to core coupling grooves 334. Core 341 can be connected to chamber C1 through liquid inlet holes 354.

[0154] In one embodiment, a hook groove 335 may be formed on the upper side of the chamber outlet 332, near the chamber outlet 332. A hook 353 may protrude downward from one side of the plate 35. The hook 353 may be inserted into and secured in the hook groove 335 formed on the upper part of the frame 33. The plate 35 may be secured to the frame 33, and the first container 31 coupled to the second container 32 may press the edge of the plate 35 against the frame 33.

[0155] In one embodiment, a user can hold the tobacco stick S, which is inserted into the insertion space 134, in their mouth and inhale air. When the housing 200 is connected to the main body 100, air can flow into the cartridge inlet 301 through the opening 201 formed on the housing 200. Air can enter the interior of the cartridge 300 through the cartridge inlet 301 and be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 300 through the cartridge outlet 304. The air entering the cartridge 300 can be discharged to the outside in sequence through the inflow path 302, the connecting hole 351, the chamber inlet 303, the atomizing chamber C2, the chamber outlet 332, and the cartridge outlet 304.

[0156] In one embodiment, when the heater 342 heats the core 341, an aerosol can be generated from the core 341 in the atomizing chamber C2. Air passing through the cartridge 300, along with the aerosol from the atomizing chamber C2, can be exhausted to the cartridge outlet 304. The air exhausted through the cartridge outlet 304 can be supplied to the insertion space 134 and the stick S inserted into the insertion space 134 via the connecting flow path 133.

[0157] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to one embodiment.

[0158] Reference Figure 6 The second body 120 may have a sidewall 121 and a partition wall 125. The sidewall 121 and the partition wall 125 may be connected to each other. The partition wall 125 may extend vertically between the pipe 130 and the cartridge coupling space 124a.

[0159] In the following description, any content that overlaps with the foregoing will be omitted, and it should be understood that, to the extent readily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the following figures and description, some components and structures of the aerosol generating device 50 may be replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, unless technically clearly impractical, at least one component or feature of the above embodiments may be combined with the aerosol generating device 50.

[0160] In one embodiment, the extension 140 may extend to one side from the upper part of the second body 120. The extension 140 may cover the upper end face 312 of the cartridge 300. The extension 140 may cover the cartridge inlet 301 and its surrounding area. A gap may be formed between the extension 140 and the cartridge inlet 301, and between the lower part of the extension 140 and the upper end face 312 of the cartridge 300. This gap allows the cartridge inlet 301 to communicate with the outside.

[0161] In one embodiment, the conduit 130 may be formed to a length in the vertical direction. The conduit 130 may be formed as a hollow structure. An insertion space 134 may be formed inside the conduit 130. The insertion space 134 may open upwards. The insertion space 134 may extend vertically. A connecting flow path 133 may be formed inside the conduit 130. The connecting flow path 133 may be formed below the insertion space 134. One end of the connecting flow path 133 may communicate with the outside of the conduit 130, and the other end may communicate with the insertion space 134. The connecting flow path 133 may bend to one side from the lower part of the insertion space 134.

[0162] In one embodiment, the airflow sensor 161 may be installed inside the extension 140. The airflow sensor 161 may face the upper end face of the cartridge 300 or the cartridge inlet 301. The airflow sensor 161 may be installed near the cartridge inlet 301. The airflow sensor 161 may be located above the cartridge inlet 301. The airflow sensor 161 may overlap with the cartridge inlet 301 in the vertical direction.

[0163] In one embodiment, the airflow sensor 161 can sense the airflow around it. The airflow sensor 161 can be a pressure sensor. The airflow sensor 161 can sense the airflow by detecting changes in the ambient air pressure. Near the cartridge inlet 301, the extension 140 can have an opening for sensing the airflow. The airflow sensor 161 can be mounted on a substrate inside the extension 140 and can be electrically connected to the control unit 20. The control unit 20 can control the operation of the various connected components based on the airflow sensed by the airflow sensor 161.

[0164] In one embodiment, a first sealing portion 151 may be disposed between the first partition wall portion 1251 and the inner plate 171. The first sealing portion 151 may wrap around and adhere to the upper end of the first partition wall portion 1251. The first sealing portion 151 may adhere to the lower end of the inner plate 171.

[0165] In one embodiment, the sensor receiving portion 156 of the second sealing portion 152 can be sealed near the first sensing hole 144. The sensor receiving portion 156 can be adhered to the extension plate 141 surrounding the first sensing hole 144. The second sensing hole 1564 formed on the sensor receiving portion 156 can communicate with the first sensing hole 144. The sensor receiving portion 156 can wrap around and adhere to the airflow sensor 161. This prevents malfunctions of the substrate or sensor due to foreign objects or aerosols emitted around the opening of the pipe 130 or foreign matter passing through the first sensing hole 144.

[0166] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250 may be disposed on one side of the chamber C1. For example, the conductive member 250 may be disposed on one side 311 of the cartridge 300 forming the chamber C1. The side 311 of the cartridge 300 may be the surface facing the partition wall 125 of the main body 100.

[0167] In one embodiment, the level sensor 260 can sense the volume of the liquid aerosol generating material stored in chamber C1. The level sensor 260 can apply current to the conductive member 250 and measure the resistance value that varies according to the volume of the liquid aerosol generating material.

[0168] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250 may be connected in series or parallel with the liquid aerosol generating substance stored in the chamber C1. The surfaces constituting the chamber C1 (e.g., one side surface 311) may be formed of a conductive material. For example, the chamber C1 may be formed of a conductive material with a relatively lower conductivity than the conductive member 250. Alternatively, the chamber C1 may be formed of a conductive resin, a conductive polymer material, or a conductive organic chemical substance.

[0169] In one embodiment, the total resistance of the conductive member 250 and the chamber C1 may change when the capacity of the liquid aerosol generating material stored in the chamber C1 changes.

[0170] For example, when the volume of the liquid aerosol generating material inside chamber C1 changes, the voltage applied to the conductive member 250 may change when the same current is applied. Or, for example, when the volume of the liquid aerosol generating material inside chamber C1 changes, the current flowing through the conductive member 250 may change when the same voltage is applied.

[0171] In one embodiment, the liquid level sensor 260 can measure the resistance change of the conductive member 250 and the chamber C1 by energizing the conductive member 250, and can sense the capacity or capacity change of the liquid aerosol generating substance stored in the chamber C1.

[0172] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the liquid level sensor 260 can use the conductive member 250 to sense the volume change of the liquid aerosol generating substance inside the chamber C1, and can improve the detection accuracy of the liquid level sensor 260.

[0173] For example, the dielectric constant of the liquid aerosol generating material may vary depending on various factors such as the raw materials, concentration, and composition ratio of the liquid aerosol generating material. When the cartridge 300 is replaced and the dielectric constant of the liquid aerosol generating material changes, the liquid level sensor 260 may produce errors when measuring the volume of the liquid aerosol generating material.

[0174] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the conductive member 250 can be configured to directly contact the chamber C1, thereby being sensitive to changes in the volume of the liquid aerosol generating material. The level sensor 260 can measure the volume change of the liquid aerosol generating material inside the chamber C1 by applying current or voltage to the conductive member 250 and measuring the resistance change of the conductive member 250 and the chamber C1, thereby reducing the error of the level sensor 260 and improving its accuracy. Furthermore, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, since the aerosol generating apparatus 50 can be easily implemented by providing the conductive member 250 and the level sensor 260, the manufacturing efficiency of the aerosol generating apparatus 50 can be improved.

[0175] In one embodiment, the level sensor 260 can transmit the detection result to at least one processor (e.g., Figure 1 (Control unit 12). At least one processor can control the drive of the aerosol generating device 50 based on the detection results received from the liquid level sensor 260.

[0176] For example, at least one processor can be connected via an output section (e.g., Figure 1 Output unit 14) or display (e.g., Figure 1 Display 14a or Figure 2 and Figure 3 The display 243) transmits information to the user about the remaining amount of liquid aerosol generating substances stored in chamber C1.

[0177] In one embodiment, the liquid level sensor 260 may include electrode units 261, 262. The electrode units 261, 262 may be arranged facing the conductive member 250. The conductive member 250 may be electrically connected to or in contact with the electrode units 261, 262 of the liquid level sensor 260.

[0178] In one embodiment, electrode units 261, 262 may include a first electrode 261 and a second electrode 262. The first electrode 261 and the second electrode 262 may be arranged spaced apart from each other and respectively contact two portions of the conductive member 250.

[0179] However, the structure and contact method of the electrode units 261, 262 and the conductive member 250 are not limited to the structure shown in the figure. The arrangement, structure and number of the electrode units 261, 262 can also be realized in various ways according to the arrangement, structure and number of the conductive member 250.

[0180] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250 may be formed as a bar extending along the extension direction of the chamber C1 (e.g., the Z-axis direction). Therefore, the level sensor 260 can effectively sense the resistance changes of the conductive member 250 and the chamber C1 based on the volume change of the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1.

[0181] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250 can be coupled to the chamber C1 in a structure that protrudes from one side 311 of the chamber C1. Because the conductive member 250 has a protruding structure, the volume of the chamber C1 can be maintained. Furthermore, since no separate coupling structure is required, the manufacturing efficiency of the aerosol generating apparatus 50, which includes the conductive member 250 and the level sensor 260, can be improved.

[0182] Examples of a cartridge 300 including a conductive member 250 will be described below based on various embodiments of the present disclosure. However, this is only one example, and the arrangement, shape, number, and structure of the conductive member 250 and the cartridge 300 are not limited thereto.

[0183] Figure 7a This is a perspective view of a smoke cartridge 300a of an aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to an embodiment.

[0184] Reference Figure 7a According to one embodiment, the smoke cartridge 300a (e.g., Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cartridge 300 may include a conductive member 250a (e.g., Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Conductive component 250).

[0185] In the following description, any content that overlaps with the foregoing will be omitted, and it should be understood that, to the extent readily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the following figures and description, some components and structures of the cartridge 300a and the aerosol generating device 50 including thereof can be replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, unless technically clearly impractical, at least one component or feature of the above embodiments can be combined with the cartridge 300a and the aerosol generating device 50 including thereof.

[0186] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250a may include a first conductive region 251 and a second conductive region 252. The first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be spaced apart from each other and disposed on one side 311 of the cartridge 300a.

[0187] In one embodiment, at least one processor (e.g., Figure 1 The control unit 12) can receive the detection results of the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 respectively, and can use these detection results to correct the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260. The first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 can reduce the error of the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260 and improve the accuracy.

[0188] For example, at least one processor can correct the detection result of the liquid level sensor 260 by averaging the detection results of the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252. Alternatively, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and at least one processor can correct the detection result of the liquid level sensor 260 by comparing the two detection results with each other in various ways.

[0189] In one embodiment, the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be arranged parallel to each other. Both the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be formed as strips extending along the extension direction of the chamber C1.

[0190] In one embodiment, the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be formed of the same shape, thickness, length, and material. Since the two conductive regions (e.g., the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252) have the same state, at least one processor can correct the detection result of the liquid level sensor 260 through a simple and easy-to-implement calibration procedure.

[0191] In one embodiment, the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be configured to have at least one different shape, thickness, length and material, and provide different detection results, thereby reducing the error that may occur when the two conductive regions (e.g., the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252) have the same state, and helping to correct the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260.

[0192] Figure 7b This is a perspective view of a smoke cartridge 300b of an aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to an embodiment.

[0193] Reference Figure 7b According to one embodiment, the smoke cartridge 300b (e.g., Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6The cartridge 300 may include a conductive member 250b (e.g., Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Conductive component 250).

[0194] In the following description, any content that overlaps with the foregoing will be omitted, and it should be understood that, to the extent readily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the following figures and description, some components and structures of the cartridge 300b and the aerosol generating device 50 including therein can be replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, unless technically clearly impractical, at least one component or feature of the above embodiments can be combined with the cartridge 300b and the aerosol generating device 50 including therein.

[0195] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250b may include a first conductive region 251, a second conductive region 252, and an insulating region 253. The first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be spaced apart from each other and disposed on one side 311 of the cartridge 300b.

[0196] In one embodiment, at least one processor (e.g., Figure 1 The control unit 12) can receive the detection results of the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 respectively, and can use these detection results to correct the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260. The first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 can reduce the error of the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260 and improve the detection accuracy.

[0197] For example, at least one processor can correct the detection result of the liquid level sensor 260 by averaging the detection results of the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252. Alternatively, the embodiments are not limited thereto, and at least one processor can correct the detection result of the liquid level sensor 260 by comparing the two detection results in various ways.

[0198] In one embodiment, the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be arranged parallel to each other. Both the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be formed as strips extending along the extension direction of the chamber C1.

[0199] In one embodiment, the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be formed of the same shape, thickness, length, and material. Since the two conductive regions (e.g., the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252) have the same conditions, at least one processor can correct the detection results of the level sensor 260 through a simple and easy calibration procedure.

[0200] In one embodiment, the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252 may be configured to have at least one different shape, thickness, length and material, and provide different detection results, thereby reducing the error that may occur when the two conductive regions (e.g., the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252) have the same conditions, and helping to correct the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260.

[0201] In one embodiment, an insulating region 253 may be disposed between the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252. The insulating region 253 may be formed of a non-conductive material. The insulating region 253 may reduce or prevent electrical interference and / or electromagnetic interference between the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252. The insulating region 253 can improve the accuracy of the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260 by reducing or preventing the mutual influence between the first conductive region 251 and the second conductive region 252.

[0202] Figure 7c This is a perspective view of a smoke cartridge 300c of an aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to an embodiment.

[0203] Reference Figure 7c According to one embodiment, the smoke cartridge 300c (e.g., Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cartridge 300 may include a conductive component 250c (e.g., Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Conductive component 250).

[0204] In the following description, any content that overlaps with the foregoing will be omitted, and it should be understood that, to the extent readily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the following figures and description, some components and structures of the cartridge 300c and the aerosol generating device 50 including thereof can be replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, unless technically clearly impractical, at least one component or feature of the above embodiments can be combined with the cartridge 300c and the aerosol generating device 50 including thereof.

[0205] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250c may be formed into a shape that bends at least once and extends along the extension direction of the chamber C1. For example, the conductive member 250c may extend in a zigzag pattern along one side 311 of the cartridge 300c. Alternatively, although not shown in the figures, the conductive member 250c may have a shape that bends at least once. Alternatively, the conductive member 250c may be semi-circular, circular, elliptical, or spiral-shaped.

[0206] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250c can be formed as a curved or arc-shaped structure, thereby increasing the contact area with the chamber C1, making a more sensitive response to changes in the capacity of the liquid aerosol generating material, and improving the accuracy of the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260.

[0207] Figure 7d This is a perspective view of a smoke cartridge 300d of an aerosol generating apparatus 50 according to an embodiment.

[0208] Reference Figure 7d According to one embodiment, the smoke cartridge 300d (e.g., Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The cartridge 300 may include a recessed area 311a and a conductive member 250d (e.g., Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 Conductive component 250).

[0209] In the following description, any content that overlaps with the foregoing will be omitted, and it should be understood that, to the extent readily understood by those skilled in the art with reference to the following figures and description, some components and structures of the cartridge 300d and the aerosol generating device 50 including thereof can be replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, unless it is technically clearly impractical, at least one component or feature of the above embodiments can be combined with the cartridge 300d and the aerosol generating device 50 including thereof.

[0210] In one embodiment, a recessed region 311a may be formed on one side surface 311 of the cartridge 300d. The recessed region 311a may have a structure that is recessed from one side surface 311 toward the interior of the chamber C1. The recessed region 311a may accommodate at least a portion of the conductive member 250d.

[0211] In one embodiment, the conductive member 250d may be disposed within the recessed region 311a. For example, one side of the chamber C1 and the conductive member 250d may form a substantially flat surface. The conductive member 250d being disposed within the recessed region 311a enhances the coupling stability of the conductive member 250d, increases its contact area with the chamber C1, and makes it more sensitive to changes in the capacity of the liquid aerosol-generating substance, thereby improving the accuracy of the detection results of the liquid level sensor 260.

[0212] Some embodiments or other embodiments of the above disclosure are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. Some embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above can be used in combination or in various configurations or functions.

[0213] For example, configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or figure and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or figure can be combined with each other. That is, although the combination between configurations is not directly described, such combination is possible except for describing cases where combination is not possible.

[0214] The above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in all respects, but rather as illustrative. The scope of this disclosure should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all variations within the equivalent scope of this disclosure are included within its scope.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, The aerosol generating device includes: A chamber that stores substances that generate liquid aerosols; The main body includes a partition wall facing the chamber; A conductive member disposed on the side of the chamber facing the partition wall; and A liquid level sensor senses the amount of the liquid aerosol-generating substance stored in the chamber. The liquid level sensor senses the amount of liquid aerosol generating material by applying current to the conductive component and measuring the voltage value that changes according to the volume of the liquid aerosol generating material.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid level sensor includes an electrode unit configured to face the conductive member and apply current to the conductive member.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive member is formed as a strip extending along the direction of the cavity.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive component includes a first conductive region and a second conductive region that are spaced apart from each other.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first conductive region and the second conductive region are arranged parallel to each other.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first conductive region and the second conductive region are formed to have the same shape.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The aerosol generating device further includes: At least one processor receives the detection result from the liquid level sensor and controls the drive of the aerosol generating device. The at least one processor receives the detection results of each of the first conductive region and the second conductive region, and corrects the detection results of the liquid level sensor.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The at least one processor corrects the detection result of the liquid level sensor by averaging the detection results of each of the first conductive region and the second conductive region.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The conductive component further includes: An insulating region is disposed between the first conductive region and the second conductive region.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive member is formed to bend and extend at least once along the direction of extension of the chamber.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive member is connected to the cavity in a structure that protrudes from one side of the cavity.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chamber includes a recessed area formed on one side connected to the conductive member and accommodating the conductive member.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, The conductive member is disposed inside the groove region, such that one side of the cavity and the conductive member form a flat surface.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chamber is formed of conductive resin, conductive polymer material or conductive organic chemical substance.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chamber is formed of a conductive material with relatively lower conductivity than the conductive component.

Images