Aerosol-generating device and method of determining state of aerosol-generating article

Abstract

The aerosol generating device comprises a shell, the shell comprises a first face, a second face opposite to the first face and a side face located between the first face and the second face, and an inner space for an aerosol generating product to be inserted is formed on the first face; a first sensor disposed adjacent to the internal space; the second sensor is arranged adjacent to the inner space, and the position of the second sensor is different from that of the first sensor; and a control portion housed within the housing and including at least one processor, where the control portion may determine whether the aerosol-generating article is over-wet based on first information received from the first sensor, and if the aerosol-generating article is over-wet based on the first information received from the first sensor. And may determine whether the aerosol-generating article is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following embodiments relate to an aerosol generating apparatus and a method for determining the state of an aerosol-generated article. Background Technology

[0002] Research is currently underway on non-combustible cigarettes. Aerosol generating devices produce aerosols by heating aerosol-generating products.

[0003] The above-mentioned background technology was acquired or learned by the inventors during the development of this invention, and should not be construed as necessarily being a generally known technology disclosed before the application for this invention. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical problems to be solved One embodiment aims to provide an aerosol generating apparatus for effectively determining whether an aerosol-generated article is to be reused, and an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0005] One embodiment aims to provide an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating apparatus for accurately determining whether an aerosol-generated article is reusable even under excessively humid conditions.

[0006] One embodiment aims to provide an aerosol generating apparatus for effectively determining whether an aerosol-generated article is in an overly humid state, and an aerosol generating system including the same.

[0007] One embodiment aims to provide an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating apparatus for effectively determining or verifying the type of aerosol-generating articles.

[0008] One embodiment aims to provide an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating apparatus for providing a user with optimal smoking satisfaction by utilizing the determined state of the aerosol-generated article.

[0009] Technical methods for solving problems An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment includes: a housing having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface located between the first surface and the second surface, wherein an internal space for inserting an aerosol generating article is formed on the first surface; a first sensor disposed adjacent to the internal space; a second sensor disposed adjacent to the internal space and at a different position from the first sensor; and a control unit housed within the housing and including at least one processor, wherein the control unit can determine whether the aerosol generating article is too wet based on first information received from the first sensor, and can determine whether the aerosol generating article is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor.

[0010] A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment may include the following steps: providing an aerosol-generating article, wherein the aerosol-generating article includes: a first filter section, a medium section disposed downstream of the first filter section and configured to contain a medium, and a second filter section disposed downstream of the medium section; measuring the capacitance change of the medium section of the aerosol-generating article using a first capacitive sensor; measuring the capacitance change of the first filter section using a second capacitive sensor; and determining whether the aerosol-generating article is reusable based on the capacitance change.

[0011] Invention Effects According to one embodiment, it is possible to effectively determine whether an aerosol-generated article usable under unheated conditions is reusable.

[0012] According to one embodiment, even under excessively humid conditions, it is possible to accurately determine whether aerosol-generated articles are reusable.

[0013] According to one embodiment, aerosol-generated articles in an over-moistened state can be effectively identified.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus can be effectively determined or verified.

[0015] According to one embodiment, optimal smoking satisfaction can be provided to users by utilizing the state information of aerosol-generated articles.

[0016] The effects of an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generated according to an embodiment are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0018] Figure 2 An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an aerosol generating article included in an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 This is an exploded view showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 This is an exploded view showing the state of an aerosol-generating article inserted into a part of an aerosol-generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the state of an aerosol-generated article according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 This is an exploded view showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 9 An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0026] Figure 10 An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0027] Figure 11 An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0028] Figure 12 An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The terminology used in the embodiments has been selected from currently widely used general terms, taking into account its function in the embodiments. However, different terms may be used depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, precedent, or the emergence of new technologies. Furthermore, in certain cases, the terms are arbitrarily chosen by the applicant of this disclosure, and the meanings of these terms will be described in detail in the corresponding sections of the specific description. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure are not merely designations of the terms themselves, but should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and all the contents of this disclosure.

[0030] It should be understood that when a part "includes" a component, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, that part does not exclude another component, but may also include another component. Furthermore, terms used in the specification such as "section," "module," etc., may refer to a component used to perform at least one function or operation, and may be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0031] As used herein, expressions preceding listed components, such as "at least one of...", do not modify each of the listed components, but rather all of them. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, or c" should be interpreted as including a, b, c, including a and b, including a and c, including b and c, or including a, b, and c.

[0032] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 3This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an aerosol generating article included in an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment. Figure 5 This is an exploded view showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 6 This is an exploded view showing the state of an aerosol-generating article inserted into a part of an aerosol-generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the state of an aerosol-generated article according to one embodiment. Figure 8 This is an exploded view showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0033] Reference Figures 1 to 4 According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation system 1 may include an aerosol generation device 1 and an aerosol generation article S.

[0034] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and an evaporator 19. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, and sensor 13 may be disposed inside the housing 10 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The housing 10 may provide a space with an opening to one side for insertion of the aerosol generating article S. This space with an opening to one side may be referred to as an internal space 104. The internal space 104 may be recessed to a certain depth toward the interior of the housing 10 to allow insertion of at least a portion of the aerosol generating article S. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region in the aerosol generating article S that includes the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The upstream end of the aerosol generating article S may be inserted into the housing 10, while the downstream end of the aerosol generating article S may protrude to the outside of the housing 10. The user may hold the exposed downstream end of the aerosol generating article S in their mouth and inhale air.

[0035] The evaporator 29 may contain aerosol-generating substances in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gas, or gel. The aerosol-generating substances may include liquid compositions. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances, including volatile tobacco aroma components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco-containing substances. For example, the liquid composition may include at least one of glycerol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited thereto. The evaporator 19 may be integrally formed with the housing 10 or detachably connected to the housing 10.

[0036] For example, refer to Figure 1 The evaporator 19 is integrated with the housing 10 and can be connected to the internal space 104 through the airflow channel CN.

[0037] For example, refer to Figure 2 A space is formed on one side of the housing 10, and at least a portion of the evaporator 19 is inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 10 to fix the evaporator 19 to the housing 10. The airflow passage CN may be defined by a portion of the evaporator 19 and / or a portion of the housing 10, and the evaporator 19 may communicate with the internal space 104 through the airflow passage CN.

[0038] The housing 10 can be configured to allow external air to flow into the interior of the housing 10 when the evaporator 19 is inserted. At this time, the external air flowing into the housing 10 can pass through the evaporator 19 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0039] The evaporator 19 may include a storage section C0 for containing aerosol-generating substances and / or a heater 191 for heating the aerosol-generating substances in the storage section C0. A liquid transfer means impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating substances may be arranged inside the storage section C0. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The electrical conduction traces of the heater 191 may be formed as a coil structure wound around the liquid transfer means or a structure contacting one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 191 may be referred to as an evaporator heater 191.

[0040] Evaporator 19 can generate aerosols. When the liquid transfer means is heated by evaporator heater 191, aerosols can be generated. When the aerosol generated by evaporator heater 19 passes through aerosol generation article S, the aerosol can mix with tobacco substances, and the aerosol mixed with tobacco substances is inhaled through one end of aerosol generation article S via the user's mouth.

[0041] The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a lid (not shown). The lid is detachably attached to the housing 10 to cover at least a portion of the evaporator 19 connected to the housing 10. The aerosol generating article S may penetrate the lid and be inserted into the housing 10.

[0042] Power source 11 supplies the electrical power required for the operation of the components of aerosol generating device 1. Power source 11 may be referred to as a battery. Power source 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, sensor 13, and evaporator heater 191.

[0043] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 12 can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, and evaporator 19. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device is in an operational state.

[0044] The control unit 12 can analyze the detection results of the sensor 13 and control subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the evaporator heater 191 based on the detection results of the sensor 13, thereby starting and stopping the evaporator heater 191. For example, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the evaporator heater 191 and the power supply time based on the detection results of the sensor 13, so that the evaporator heater 191 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at a suitable temperature.

[0045] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a cap detection sensor. For example, sensor 13 may detect at least one of the temperature of the evaporator heater 191, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the housing 20. For example, sensor 13 may sense a user's puff. For example, sensor 13 may sense whether the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104. For example, sensor 13 may sense whether the evaporator 19 is installed. For example, sensor 13 may sense whether a cap is installed.

[0046] The housing 10 may include a first surface 101, a second surface 102 opposite to the first surface 101, and a side surface 103 located between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102. An internal space 104 may be formed in the first surface 101. The internal space 104 may include an internal space end surface 1042 located between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, and an internal space side surface 1043 extending from the edge of the internal space end surface 1042 to the first surface 101.

[0047] The first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be along the longitudinal direction of the internal space 104 (e.g., along the longitudinal direction of the internal space 104). Figure 1 and Figure 2 Arranged in the -X direction.

[0048] The control unit 12 receives first information measured by the first sensor 13-1 and second information measured by the second sensor 13-2, and is able to determine the state of the aerosol-generated product S based on the first and second information. The first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 will be described in detail later.

[0049] Reference Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 191. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to... Figure 1 or Figure 2As shown. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that this can be omitted depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1. Figure 1 or Figure 2 The components shown may be partial or additional components may be added.

[0050] Sensor 13 can detect the status of aerosol generating device 1 or the surrounding environment of aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the detected information to control unit 12. Control unit 12 can control aerosol generating device 1 to perform other functions based on the detected information, such as controlling the operation of evaporator heater 191, restricting smoking, determining whether aerosol generating product S and / or evaporator 19 is inserted, displaying notifications, etc.

[0051] Sensor 13 may include at least one of temperature sensor 131, suction sensor 132, insertion detection sensor 133, reuse sensor 134, cartridge detection sensor 135, cap detection sensor 136, and motion detection sensor 137.

[0052] Temperature sensor 131 can detect the heating temperature of evaporator heater 191. Aerosol generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of evaporator heater 191, or evaporator heater 191 itself may be used as a temperature sensor.

[0053] Temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of evaporator heater 191. For example, temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in evaporator heater 191. Temperature sensor 131 can be implemented using a thermistor, which is a component that utilizes the characteristic that resistance changes with temperature. In this case, temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of evaporator heater 191. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be configured as a sensor for detecting the resistance value of evaporator heater 191. In this case, temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of evaporator heater 191 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of evaporator heater 191.

[0054] Temperature sensor 131 can be arranged around power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of power supply 11. Temperature sensor 131 can be located near power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be attached to one side of the battery that serves as power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0055] Temperature sensor 131 can be disposed inside housing 10 to sense the internal temperature of housing 10.

[0056] The suction sensor 132 can detect user suction based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The suction sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to suction. For example, the suction sensor 132 can be a pressure sensor. The suction sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 can correspond to the pressure in the airflow path through which the gas flows. The suction sensor 132 can be configured to correspond to the airflow path through which the gas flows in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0057] The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can sense signal changes based on the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can be installed near the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article S based on changes in the dielectric constant within the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0058] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of an inductive sensor may be arranged near the insertion space. For example, when the magnetic field around the coil through which current flows changes, the properties of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the properties of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0059] Inductive sensors can output a signal corresponding to the nature of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0060] Capacitive sensors may include conductors. The conductors of a capacitive sensor may be arranged within an internal space (e.g., Figure 1 or Figure 2 The internal space 104 is nearby. Capacitive sensors can output signals corresponding to the electromagnetic properties of the surrounding environment (e.g., the capacitance around a conductor). For example, when an aerosol-generating article S, including a metal package, is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic properties around the conductor may change due to the package of the aerosol-generating article S.

[0061] The detection sensor 134 can be used to detect whether the cigarette stick has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 can be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the aerosol-generating product S. The color sensor can also detect the partial color of the packaging surrounding the aerosol-generating product S. The color sensor can detect the value of an optical property corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from it. 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.

[0062] At least a portion of the packaging comprising the aerosol-generating article S may change color due to the aerosol. A detection sensor 134 can be positioned corresponding to the location of at least a portion of the packaging that has changed color due to the aerosol when the aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the user uses the aerosol-generating article S, 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 aerosol-generating article S, 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.

[0063] The cartridge (evaporator) detection sensor 135 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the evaporator 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 can be implemented by an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (hall IC) utilizing the Hall effect.

[0064] The lid detection sensor 136 can detect the installation and / or removal of the lid. When the lid is removed from the housing 10, the evaporator 19 covered by the lid and a portion of the housing 10 are exposed to the outside. The lid detection sensor 136 can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0065] The motion detection sensor 137 can detect the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion detection sensor 137 can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0066] In addition to the sensors (131 to 137) 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.

[0067] 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 141, the tactile unit 142, and the sound output unit 143, but is not limited thereto. When the display 141 and the touchpad are stacked to form a touch screen, the display 141 can be used not only as an output device but also as an input device.

[0068] Display 141 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating apparatus 1 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating apparatus 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 aerosol generating article S and / or the evaporator 19, the installation / removal status of the cover, or the usage limitation status of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 (e.g., an anomaly detected), and display 141 can output the information externally. For example, display 141 may be an LED light-emitting element. For example, display 141 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting display (OLED), etc.

[0069] The tactile unit 142 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 evaporator heater 191 and continues for a set time, the tactile unit 142 can generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. For example, the tactile unit 142 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0070] The sound output unit 143 can provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user via sound. For example, the sound output unit 143 can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output it to the outside.

[0071] Power source 11 provides the electrical power required for the operation of aerosol generating device 1. Power source 11 supplies power to heat evaporator heater 191. Furthermore, power source 11 provides the necessary power to other components in aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17). Power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0072] although Figure 3 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.

[0073] The power supply protection circuit can disconnect the power supply 11 under predetermined conditions. For example, when the voltage level of 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 power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharging, the power supply protection circuit can disconnect the power supply 11.

[0074] 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 or Figure 2 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 3 Although not shown, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the evaporator heater 191. 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 evaporator heater 191. The low-pass filter can prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13, such as the inserted detection sensor 133.

[0075] In one embodiment, the evaporator heater 191 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 evaporator heater 191 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.

[0076] In another embodiment, the evaporator heater 191 may be an induction heater. For example, the evaporator heater 191 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0077] 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.

[0078] The display 141 and the touch panel can be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be inserted into the display 141 (e.g., on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel can be added to the display 141 (e.g., add-on type).

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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 of the following storage media: 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 the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, the maximum number of pumping cycles, the current number of pumping cycles, at least one temperature profile, and user smoking pattern data.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] although Figure 3 As 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.

[0085] 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 apparent to those skilled in the art that the at least one processor may be other forms of hardware.

[0086] The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the power supply from the power source 11 to the evaporator heater 191. The control unit 12 can also control the temperature of the evaporator heater 191 based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131. Furthermore, the control unit 12 can adjust the power supplied to the evaporator heater 191 based on its temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature of the evaporator heater 191 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0087] 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 evaporator heater 191. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the evaporator heater 191. 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.

[0088] 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 is used to convert the DC power output from the power supply 11 into AC power. For example, the inverter can be configured as a half-bridge circuit or a full-bridge circuit including multiple switching elements.

[0089] The control unit 12 can activate the switching element to supply power from the power source 11 to the evaporator heater 191. The control unit 12 can deactivate the switching element to cut off the power supply to the evaporator heater 191. 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.

[0090] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements in 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, etc.

[0091] The control unit 12 can adjust the voltage level output by the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of the switching elements included in the power conversion circuit. During the on state of the switching elements, 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 elements 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 elements 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.

[0092] The control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) scheme.

[0093] For example, the control unit 12 can control the supply of current pulses with a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the evaporator heater 191 using a PWM scheme. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the evaporator heater 191 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses.

[0094] 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 evaporator heater 191, wherein the PID scheme is a feedback control scheme based on the difference between the temperature of the evaporator heater 191 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0095] The control unit 12 can prevent the evaporator heater 191 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to stop supplying power to the evaporator heater 191 based on the temperature of the evaporator heater 191 exceeding a preset temperature limit. For example, the control unit 12 can reduce the power supplied to the evaporator heater 191 by a predetermined ratio based on the temperature of the evaporator heater 191 exceeding the preset temperature limit. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating material contained in the evaporator 191 has been depleted based on the temperature of the evaporator heater 191 exceeding the temperature limit, and cut off the power supply to the evaporator heater 191.

[0096] 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 131.

[0097] When the power cord is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generating device 1, the control unit 12 can confirm 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 the 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 the charging of the power supply 11.

[0098] When the aerosol generating device 1 is powered on, the control unit 12 can check 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol generating product S has been inserted into the insertion space by using the insertion detection sensor 133. The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol generating product S has been inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 133. When it is determined that the aerosol generating product S has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the evaporator heater 191. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the evaporator heater 191 according to the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0101] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating product S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating product S has been removed from the insertion space by using the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, 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 the set gradient, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating product S has been removed from the insertion space. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating product S has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the evaporator heater 191.

[0102] The control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the evaporator heater 191 based on the state of the aerosol-generating product S 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.

[0103] When the aerosol-generating product S is in an over-humid state, the control unit 12 can increase the preheating time of the aerosol-generating product S relative to the normal state by controlling the power supply time of the evaporator heater 191.

[0104] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol generating product S inserted into the insertion space has been reused by using the reuse detection sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor 134 with a first reference range including a first color, and determine that the aerosol generating product S 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 134 with a second reference range including a second color, and determine that the aerosol generating product S has been used when the sensed value falls within the second reference range. When it is determined that the aerosol generating product S has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the evaporator heater 191.

[0105] The control unit 12 can determine whether the vaporizer 19 is installed and / or removed by the cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the vaporizer 19 is installed and / or removed based on the sensed value of the signal from the cartridge detection sensor 135.

[0106] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge is depleted. For example, the control unit 12 can preheat the evaporator heater 191 by applying electricity, and determine whether the temperature of the evaporator heater 191 exceeds a temperature limit during preheating. When the temperature of the evaporator heater 191 exceeds the temperature limit, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the evaporator 191 is depleted. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating material in the evaporator 191 is depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the evaporator heater 191.

[0107] The control unit 12 can determine whether the evaporator 19 is usable or not. For example, when the current number of suction cycles is greater than or equal to the maximum number of suction cycles of the evaporator 19 set based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the evaporator 19 is unusable. For example, when the total heating time of the heater 24 is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time, or when the total power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than or equal to the preset maximum power, the control unit 12 can determine that the evaporator 19 is unusable.

[0108] The control unit 12 can determine the user's inhalation based on the suction sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether suction has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the suction sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the suction intensity based on the sensing value of the signal from the suction sensor 132. When the number of suctions reaches the preset maximum number of suctions or when no suction is detected for a preset time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the evaporator heater 191.

[0109] The control unit 12 can determine whether the lid is engaged and / or removed by the lid detection sensor 136. 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 136.

[0110] 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 suctions counted by the suction sensor 132 reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can notify the user that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to be shut down via at least one of the display 141, the tactile unit 142, or the sound output unit 143. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user via the output unit 14 based on the determination that the aerosol generating article S 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 evaporator 19 and / or the cover are not installed. For example, the control unit 12 can provide the user with information about the temperature of the evaporator heater 191 via the output unit 14.

[0111] Based on the occurrence of predetermined events, the control unit 12 can store and update the historical records of the events in the memory 17. Events may include detecting the insertion of the aerosol generating article S, starting heating of the smoke stick, detecting inhalation, ending inhalation, detecting overheating of the evaporator heater 191, detecting overvoltage applied to the evaporator heater 191, ending heating of the smoke 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., all of which are performed by the aerosol generating device 1. The historical records 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 detecting the insertion of the aerosol generating article S, the log data corresponding to this event may include data on the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, if the predetermined event is detecting overheating of the evaporator heater 191, the log data corresponding to this event may include data on the temperature of the evaporator heater 191, the voltage applied to the evaporator heater 191, the current flowing in the evaporator heater 191, etc.

[0112] 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, unique identifier, 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 evaporator heater 191.

[0113] 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, the operating mode, etc., through its display.

[0114] An external device can transmit a position search request to the aerosol generating device 1 based on an input initiating a position search for the aerosol generating device 1. When a position 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 position search based on the received position search request. For example, in response to the position search request, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibration. For example, in response to the position search request, the display 141 can output an object corresponding to the position search and the end of the search.

[0115] 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 a firmware download request 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.

[0116] The control unit 12 can transmit the sensing 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 data of at least one sensor 13 and data for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 can store a database of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 1, the weights forming the ANN structure, and the 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 this model to determine the user's inhalation pattern and generate a temperature curve.

[0117] Reference Figure 4 According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating article S may include a first filter section S1, a medium section S2, a second filter section S2, and a packaging component S5.

[0118] In one embodiment, at least one packaging element S5 can be used to package the aerosol-generating article S. The packaging element S5 may have at least one hole through which external air is introduced or internal gas is exhausted to the outside. The packaging element S5 may include a material with high thermal conductivity.

[0119] For example, the first filter segment S1 can be packaged using the first package S51; the medium segment S2 can be packaged using the second package S52; and the second filter segment S3 can be packaged using the third package S53. Furthermore, the entire aerosol-generating product S can be packaged again using the fifth package S55.

[0120] In one embodiment, the first packaging component S51, the second packaging component S52, and the third packaging component S53 can be made of porous cigarette paper. For example, the porosity of each of the first packaging component S51, the second packaging component S52, and the third packaging component S53 can be 35000 Cu, but the implementation is not limited to this. Furthermore, the thickness of each of the first packaging component S51, the second packaging component S52, and the third packaging component S53 can be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. Additionally, the basis weight of each of the first packaging component S51, the second packaging component S52, and the third packaging component S53 can be 20 g / m³. 2 Up to 25g / m 2 Within the range.

[0121] In one embodiment, the fifth package S55 may be made of aseptic paper (MFW). For example, the basis weight of the fifth package S55 may be 57 g / m³. 2 Up to 63g / m 2 Within a certain range. Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth packaging component S55 can range from 64 μm to 70 μm.

[0122] In one embodiment, the first segment 121 may be composed of a cellulose acetate filter rod. Alternatively, the first segment 121 may be composed of a paper filter rod and a porous molded part, etc. For example, the length of the first segment 121 may be 4 mm to 15 mm, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In addition, the first segment 121 may be colored or scented.

[0123] In one embodiment, the media segment S2 may be filled with a medium. For example, the media segment S2 may include a cavity, and the cavity may be filled with a medium. As another example, the media segment S2 may include a cellulose acetate filter rod or a paper filter rod, and a medium may be inserted into and filled into the cellulose acetate filter rod or paper filter rod.

[0124] In one embodiment, the medium matrix filling the medium segment S2 may include at least one component selected from granular tobacco (tobacco pellets), reconstituted tobacco, and tobacco shreds. For example, the appropriate length of the medium segment S2 may be in the range of 6 mm to 18 mm, but the implementation is not limited thereto.

[0125] Generally, the moisture and / or aerosol forming agent content of tobacco particles is significantly lower than that of other types of tobacco materials (such as shredded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.), thus greatly reducing the generation of visible smoke and facilitating the smokeless function of the aerosol generating device 11. However, the diameter, density, filling rate, material composition ratio, heating temperature, etc., of the tobacco particles may vary depending on the implementation method. The diameter of the tobacco particles can be approximately 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm. Within this range, appropriate hardness of the tobacco particles can be ensured, making them easy to manufacture and increasing the probability of vortex generation within the chamber.

[0126] In addition, the medium segment S2 may also include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, the medium segment S2 may also include flavoring liquids, such as menthol or humectants, which are added by spraying them onto the medium segment S2.

[0127] In one embodiment, the medium segment S2 may include a pH-treated medium. For example, the medium matrix may be pH-treated to be alkaline using a pH adjuster, which may include at least one of potassium carbonate (K₂CO₃), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), and calcium oxide (CaO). However, the materials included in the pH adjuster are not limited to the examples described above; materials that produce less unpleasant odors during smoking may also be used. The alkaline pH adjuster can increase the pH of the medium matrix included in the medium segment S2. Compared to a medium matrix not treated with an alkaline pH adjuster, a medium matrix treated with an alkaline pH can increase nicotine emissions. That is, a medium matrix treated with an alkaline pH can obtain sufficient nicotine production from the medium segment S2 even at low temperatures.

[0128] In one embodiment, the medium segment S2 may include pulpy reconstituted tobacco leaves or paper-process reconstituted tobacco leaves with a pH value adjusted to 7.0 to 9.5, or may include tobacco particles with a pH value adjusted to 7.0 to 9.5. The medium matrix may include nicotine and has been treated with an alkaline pH to enable the transfer of free nicotine (gaseous nicotine) from the medium matrix, even under non-heating conditions or relatively low temperature conditions. That is, by adjusting the pH value of the medium matrix of the medium segment S2 to the range of 7.0 to 9.5, volatile free nicotine can be transferred under non-heating conditions, and a sufficient level of tobacco flavor intensity can be achieved.

[0129] In one embodiment, the second filter segment S3 may be made of a cellulose acetate filter rod. Additionally, the second filter segment S3 may include at least one fragrance sac-like element. For example, the second filter segment S3 may be a cellulose acetate filter rod in which at least one fragrance sac-like element is inserted. Furthermore, the second filter segment S3 may be made of a cellulose acetate filter rod mixed with a fragrance material.

[0130] In one embodiment, nicotine can be adsorbed onto at least one of the first filter segment S1 and the second filter segment S3. Since the pH value of the medium segment S2 is in the range of 7.0 to 9.5, even under non-heating conditions, the nicotine in the medium segment S2 actively converts to a free nicotine state to transfer to the first filter segment S1 or the second filter segment S3. Therefore, the nicotine transferred from the medium segment S2 can be adsorbed onto at least one of the first filter segment S1 and the second filter segment S3. Since not only the medium segment S2 contains nicotine, but also the first filter segment S1 or the second filter segment S3, the aerosol-generated product S can be used even without preheating the aerosol generating device 1. This not only improves user convenience but also ensures sufficient nicotine transfer to provide the satisfying aroma of tobacco, even without heating (or low-temperature heating).

[0131] In one embodiment, a cooling section (not shown) may be included between the media section S2 and the second filter section S3. The cooling section can cool the aerosol passing through the media section S2. For example, the cooling section 112 may be made of cellulose acetate and may be a hollow tubular structure therein. For example, the cooling section 112 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. For example, the cooling section 112 may be made of paper and may be a hollow tubular structure therein. A suitable diameter of the hollow portion included in the cooling section 112 may range from 4 mm to 8 mm, but the example is not limited to this.

[0132] Figure 5 This is an exploded view showing the shell component 10-1 that constitutes the internal space 104 of the shell 10.

[0133] Reference Figure 5 The first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be along the longitudinal direction of the internal space 104 (e.g., Figure 5 Arranged in the + / -X direction.

[0134] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 may be along the direction from the first surface 101 to the end surface 1042 of the internal space (e.g., Figure 5 Arranged sequentially in the -X direction.

[0135] At least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 is exposed to the internal space 104, thereby enabling the detection of the state of the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space 104. At least a portion of the second sensor 13-2 is exposed to the internal space 104, thereby enabling the detection of the state of the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space 104. For example, at least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 may be exposed from the side 1043 of the internal space. Alternatively, the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 may be housed inside the housing component 10-1, allowing the detection of the state of the aerosol-generating article S without exposure to the internal space 104. Yet another example, at least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned exposed from the side 1043 of the internal space, and at least a portion of the second sensor 13-2 may be positioned exposed from the end face 1042 of the internal space.

[0136] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 may include a first capacitive sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may include a second capacitive sensor. The first and / or second capacitive sensors may include conductors. The conductors may be positioned near the side 1043 of the internal space. The first and / or second capacitive sensors may output signals corresponding to the capacitance of adjacent segments (compartments) in the aerosol-generating article S. For example, when the moisture content of different segments of the aerosol-generating article S varies, the electromagnetic properties around the conductor may change, and the first and second capacitive sensors may respectively indicate the capacitance value corresponding to each segment.

[0137] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 may include a first inductive sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may include a second inductive sensor. The first inductive sensor and / or the second inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil may be positioned near the side 1043 of the internal space. For example, when the magnetic field around the coil through which current flows changes, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. The first inductive sensor and / or the second inductive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, when the moisture content of different segments of the aerosol-generated product S is different, the first inductive sensor and the second inductive sensor may respectively indicate the signal value corresponding to each segment.

[0138] The signals measured by the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 can be transmitted to the control unit via connector 13-3 (e.g., Figure 1 or Figure 2 Control unit 12).

[0139] Figure 6 Shown in Figure 5 The case where the aerosol-generating article S in the shell component 10-1 is inserted into the internal space 104.

[0140] Reference Figure 6 In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating article S is fully inserted into the internal space 104, the first sensor 13-1 can be positioned at a location corresponding to the medium segment S2 of the aerosol generating article S. For example, the first sensor 13-1 can be positioned horizontally away from the medium segment S2 (e.g., along...). Figure 6 (The YZ plane).

[0141] When the aerosol generating article S is fully inserted into the internal space 104, the second sensor 13-2 can be positioned at a location corresponding to the first filter tip segment S1 of the aerosol generating article S. For example, the second sensor 13-2 can be positioned horizontally away from the first filter tip segment S1 (e.g., along...). Figure 6 (The YZ plane).

[0142] When the first sensor 13-1 includes a first capacitive sensor and the second sensor 13-2 includes a second capacitive sensor, the first sensor 13-1 can detect the degree of wetness (over-wetness) of the medium section S2, and the second sensor 13-2 can detect the degree of wetness (over-wetness) of the first filter section S1.

[0143] In one embodiment, when both the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 include capacitive sensors, the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 exposed on the internal space side 1043 can be the same as the area of ​​the second sensor 13-2 exposed on the internal space side 1043. By making the exposed areas of the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 the same, interference between the two sensors can be minimized.

[0144] In this configuration, the first sensor 13-1 can be positioned near the first surface 101, while the second sensor 13-2 can be positioned near the end surface 1042 of the internal space, thereby minimizing the influence between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2. For example, considering the dimensions of the aerosol generating device 1, the spacing between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be maximized. For example, the second sensor 13-2 can be positioned at the innermost part of the internal space 104. Similarly, the first sensor 13-1 can be positioned closest to the first surface 101, but a proximity sensor position allows the first sensor 13-1 to be positioned closer to the proximity sensor than the first surface 101.

[0145] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating product S is over-humidified based on first information received from the first sensor 13-1 (e.g., the amount of capacitance change in the medium segment S2). The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating product S is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor 13-2 (e.g., the amount of capacitance change in the first filter segment S1).

[0146] In one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 includes a first capacitive sensor and the second sensor 13-2 includes a second capacitive sensor, electric fields of different frequency bands can be applied to the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2.

[0147] For example, an electric field of a first frequency band sensitive to humidity detection can be applied to the first sensor 13-1. For example, an electric field of a second frequency band sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances (e.g., glycerol, propylene glycol) can be applied to the second sensor 13-2.

[0148] Different capacitance values ​​can be measured depending on the frequency of the electric field applied to the capacitive sensor. If an electric field of the same frequency is applied to both the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, there may be overlap between the range of the maximum and minimum capacitance values ​​measured in the over-humidified state of the aerosol generating product S and the range of the maximum and minimum capacitance values ​​measured in the reused state of the aerosol generating product S. In this case, it may be impossible to determine whether the aerosol generating product S is in an over-humidified state or a reused state.

[0149] To prevent this from happening, the control unit 12 can apply a first frequency band electric field that is sensitive to humidity detection to the first sensor 13-1 and a second frequency band electric field that is sensitive to aerosol generation detection to the second sensor 13-2, so that the range between the maximum and minimum capacitance values ​​measured by the first sensor 13-1 does not overlap with the range between the maximum and minimum capacitance values ​​measured by the second sensor 13-2.

[0150] For example, in high-humidity environments such as the rainy season, the aerosol-generating product S may be in an excessively humid state. The humidity of the aerosol-generating product S may change due to excessive humidity. When the humidity of the aerosol-generating product S changes, the dielectric constant may also change. Therefore, the measured capacitance value may change. In an excessively humid state, the first filter section S1, the dielectric section S2, and the second filter section S3 of the aerosol-generating product S may be completely wetted and may exhibit capacitance values ​​that converge with the corresponding humidity.

[0151] For example, by an evaporator (e.g., Figure 1 or Figure 2 The aerosol generated by the evaporator 19 may enter the first filter section S1 of the aerosol generating article S and pass through the medium section S2 to reach the second filter section S3. When the aerosol travels downstream of the aerosol generating article S (e.g., Figure 6 When the aerosol moves in the +X direction, it will wet the upstream portion of the aerosol generating article S more than the downstream portion. In the aerosol generating article S used, the first filter section S1 located upstream of the aerosol generating article S may be more easily wetted by the aerosol generating substance (e.g., glycerol, propylene glycol) than the media section S2 located downstream of the aerosol generating article S.

[0152] Simultaneously, the control unit 12 can apply an electric field to the first sensor 13-1, and after stopping the application of the electric field to the first sensor 13-1, sequentially apply an electric field to the second sensor 13-2. When electric fields are applied to the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 simultaneously, the measured values ​​of the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 may interfere with each other. By applying electric fields to the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 with a certain time difference, interference between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be prevented.

[0153] If the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1 between a first time point (before the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104) and a second time point (after the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104) is greater than a first set value, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article S is in an over-humidified state. The first set value can be the maximum value of the capacitance change of the aerosol generating article S under normal conditions. Here, normal conditions can be defined as non-over-humidified conditions, rather than over-humidified conditions.

[0154] When it is determined that the aerosol generating product S is in an over-humidified state, if the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 between the first and second time points is greater than a second set value, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating product S is in an over-humidified reuse state. The second set value can be the maximum value of the capacitance change of the aerosol generating product S in the over-humidified unused state.

[0155] When the aerosol generating product S is determined to be in a normal (non-over-humid) state, if the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 between the first and second time points is greater than a third set value, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating product S is in a normal reuse state. The third set value can be the maximum value of the capacitance change of the aerosol generating product S in a normal unused state.

[0156] Table 1 shows an example of how the control unit 12 of an aerosol generating apparatus 1, according to one embodiment, determines the state of the aerosol-generated article S.

[0157] [Table 1]

[0158] Referring to Table 1, the top flag indicates the value generated based on the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1, and the bottom flag indicates the value generated based on the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2.

[0159] When the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1 is greater than a first set value, the control unit 12 can set the top flag to 1. When the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1 is less than the first set value, the control unit 12 can set the top flag to 0. Top flag 1 indicates an over-humidity state, and top flag 0 indicates a normal (non-over-humidity) state.

[0160] Then, with the top mark 1 in the state, when the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than the second set value, the control unit 12 can set the bottom mark to 1. Then, with the top mark 0 in the state, when the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than the third set value, the control unit 12 can set the bottom mark to 1. Here, the bottom mark 1 indicates the reuse state.

[0161] With both the top and bottom markings set to 0 (Case 1), the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating product S is in a normal, unused state. In this case, the control unit 12 can operate the evaporator heater 191.

[0162] With the top mark 0 and the bottom mark 1 (case 2), the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating product S is in a normal reuse state. In this case, the control unit 12 may not operate the evaporator heater 191.

[0163] With the top mark 1 and the bottom mark 0 (case 3), the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating product S is in an over-humidified and unused state. In this case, the control unit 12 can operate the evaporator heater 191.

[0164] With the top and bottom markings 1 in their respective states (case 4), the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating product S is in an over-wet reuse state. In this case, the control unit 12 may not operate the evaporator heater 191.

[0165] Reference Figure 7 A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article S according to one embodiment may include: step 1001: providing the aerosol-generating article S; step 1002: measuring the capacitance change of the medium segment S2 of the aerosol-generating article S using a first sensor 13-1 including a first capacitive sensor; step 1003: measuring the capacitance change of the first filter segment S1 using a second sensor 13-2 including a second capacitive sensor; and step 1004: determining whether the aerosol-generating article S is reusable based on the capacitance change.

[0166] In step 1002, when the capacitance change of the medium segment S2 of the aerosol-generating product S is measured by the first sensor 13-1 including the first capacitive sensor, an electric field of the first frequency band sensitive to humidity detection can be applied to the first sensor 13-1.

[0167] In step 1003, when measuring the capacitance change of the first filter segment S1 by the second sensor 13-2, which includes a second capacitive sensor, a second frequency band electric field sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances can be applied to the second sensor 13-2.

[0168] In step 1004, determining whether the aerosol-generated product S is to be reused based on the capacitance change may further include the following steps: when the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1 is greater than a first set value and the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than a second set value, it is determined that the aerosol-generated product S is in an over-wet reuse state.

[0169] Step 1004, which determines whether the aerosol-generated product S is reused based on the capacitance change, may further include the following steps: when the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1 is less than a first set value and the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than a third set value, it is determined that the aerosol-generated product S is in a normal reuse state.

[0170] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view showing the housing component 10-1 that constitutes the internal space 104 of the housing 10. (Referring to...) Figure 8 For simplicity, references and other terms have been omitted in the provided description. Figure 5 The described component is described repeatedly.

[0171] Reference Figure 8 In one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 includes a capacitive sensor and the second sensor 13-22 includes a capacitive sensor, the area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 exposed on the side of the internal space 1043 can be larger than the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 exposed on the side of the internal space 1043.

[0172] Capacitance is inversely proportional to the distance between spaces including the dielectric and directly proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the dielectric. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104, a large amount of charge can be received if the area of ​​the capacitive sensor exposed on the side 1043 of the internal space is large.

[0173] Since the exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 is larger than that of the first sensor 13-1, the humidity of the first filter segment S2, which is more wetted by aerosol, can be measured more accurately.

[0174] Here, the width W2 of the second sensor 13-22 along the circumferential direction of the inner space side 1043 can be greater than the width W1 of the first sensor 13-1 along the circumferential direction of the inner space side 1043. The larger exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 allows it to receive the magnetic field from the medium segment S2 when a portion of it is close to the first sensor 13-1. In this case, the exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 can be increased by increasing the width W2 without increasing the longitudinal length of the second sensor 13-22 (e.g., Figure 7 (in the + / -X direction). This also helps to separate the first sensor 13-1 from the second sensor 13-22 as much as possible.

[0175] Figure 9 and Figure 10 An aerosol generation system 200 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0176] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The aerosol generation system 200 may include an aerosol generation device 2 and an aerosol generation article S. The aerosol generation device 2 may include at least one of a power supply 21, a control unit 22, a sensor 23, an evaporator 29, and a heater 28. At least one of the power supply 21, control unit 22, sensor 23, and heater 28 may be arranged inside a housing 20. The housing 20 may provide a space with an opening to one side for insertion of the aerosol generation article S.

[0177] Heater 28 can heat the aerosol-generating article S. Heater 28 can extend relatively long upwards around the periphery of the space into which the aerosol-generating article S is inserted. As an example, heater 28 can be a hollow tubular shape. Heater 28 can be arranged around the interior space. Heater 28 can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the interior space. Heater 28 can heat the interior space or the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the interior space. Heater 28 can include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0178] For example, heater 28 may be a resistance heater. For example, heater 28 may include an electrical conduction track, and heater 28 may be heated when current flows through the electrical conduction track. Heater 28 may be electrically connected to power supply 21. Heater 28 can receive current from power supply 21 and generate heat directly.

[0179] For example, the aerosol generating device 2 may include an induction coil surrounding the heater 28. The induction coil can heat the heater 28. The heater 28, acting as a susceptor, can generate heat based on the magnetic field produced by the alternating current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field can penetrate the heater 28 and generate eddy currents within it. The current can then cause the heater 28 to heat up.

[0180] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating article S may include a sensor, and the sensor inside the aerosol generating article S may generate heat based on the magnetic field generated by the alternating current through the induction coil.

[0181] The evaporator 29 may contain aerosol-generating substances in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gas, or gel. The aerosol-generating substances may include liquid compositions. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances, including volatile tobacco aroma components, or it may be a liquid containing non-tobacco-containing substances. The evaporator 29 may be integrally formed with the housing 20 or detachably connected to the housing 20.

[0182] For example, refer to Figure 9 The evaporator 29 is integrated with the shell 20 and can be connected to the internal space through the airflow channel CN.

[0183] For example, refer to Figure 10 A space is formed on one side of the housing 10, and at least a portion of the evaporator 19 is inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 20 to secure the evaporator 29 to the housing 20. The airflow passage CN may be defined by a portion of the evaporator 29 and / or a portion of the housing 20, and the evaporator 29 may communicate with the internal space through the airflow passage CN.

[0184] The housing 20 can be configured to allow external air to flow into the housing 10 when the evaporator 29 is inserted. At this time, the external air flowing into the housing 20 can pass through the evaporator 29 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0185] The evaporator 29 may include a storage section C0 for containing aerosol-generating substances and / or a heater 291 for heating the aerosol-generating substances in the storage section C0. A liquid transfer means impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating substances may be arranged inside the storage section C0. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The electrical conduction traces of the heater 291 may be formed as a coil structure wound around the liquid transfer means or a structure contacting one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 291 may be referred to as an evaporator heater 291.

[0186] Evaporator 29 is capable of generating aerosols. Aerosols are generated when the liquid delivery means is heated by evaporator heater 291. Aerosols can be generated by heating the aerosol-generating article S through heater 291. When the aerosol generated by evaporator heater 291 passes through the aerosol-generating article S, the aerosol can mix with tobacco substances, and the aerosol mixed with tobacco substances is inhaled through one end of the aerosol-generating article S via the user's mouth.

[0187] The aerosol generating device 2 may include a lid (not shown). The lid is detachably attached to the housing 20 to cover at least a portion of the evaporator 29 connected to the housing 20. The aerosol generating article S may penetrate the lid and be inserted into the housing 20.

[0188] Power source 21 supplies the electrical power required for the operation of the components of aerosol generating device 2. Power source 21 may be referred to as a battery. Power source 21 can supply power to at least one of control unit 22, sensor 33, evaporator heater 291, and heater 28.

[0189] The control unit 22 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 2. The control unit 22 can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 22 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 21, sensor 23, evaporator 29, and heater 28. The control unit 22 can control the operation of the display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generating device 2. The control unit 22 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 2 to determine whether the aerosol generating device is in an operational state.

[0190] The control unit 22 can analyze the detection results of the sensor 23 and control subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 22 can control the power supplied to the evaporator heater 291 and / or heater 28 based on the detection results of the sensor 23, thereby starting and stopping the evaporator heater 291 and / or heater 28. For example, the control unit 22 can control the amount of power supplied to the evaporator heater 291 and the power supply time based on the detection results of the sensor 23, so that the evaporator heater 291 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at a suitable temperature.

[0191] Sensor 23 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a cap detection sensor. For example, sensor 23 may detect at least one of the following: the temperature of evaporator heater 291 and / or heater 28, the temperature of power supply 21, and the internal and external temperatures of housing 20. For example, sensor 23 may sense a user's puff. For example, sensor 23 may sense whether the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space. For example, sensor 23 may sense whether evaporator 29 is installed. For example, sensor 23 may sense whether a cap is installed.

[0192] The first sensor 23-1 and the second sensor 23-2 can be along the longitudinal direction of the internal space (e.g., Figure 8 and Figure 9 Arranged in the -X direction.

[0193] The control unit 22 can receive first information sensed by the first sensor 23-1 and second information sensed by the second sensor 23-2, and can determine the state of the aerosol-generated product S based on the first and second information. The functions of the first sensor 23-1 and the second sensor 23-2 are the same as or similar to the functions of the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, therefore, for the sake of brevity, their detailed description will be omitted.

[0194] Figure 11 and Figure 12 An aerosol generation system 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generation system 300 may include an aerosol generation apparatus 3 and an aerosol generation article S.

[0195] Reference Figure 11 The aerosol generating apparatus 3 may include at least one of a power supply 31, a control unit 32, a sensor 33, and a heater 38. At least one of the power supply 31, control unit 32, sensor 33, and heater 38 may be arranged inside the housing 30 of the aerosol generating apparatus 3. The housing 30 may provide an upwardly opening for insertion of the aerosol-generated article S.

[0196] Heater 38 can heat the aerosol-generating article S. Heater 38 can extend relatively long upwards around the periphery of the space into which the aerosol-generating article S is inserted. As an example, heater 38 can be a hollow tubular shape. Heater 38 can be arranged around the interior space. Heater 38 can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the interior space. Heater 38 can heat the interior space or the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the interior space. Heater 38 can include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0197] For example, refer to Figure 11 The heater 38 can be a resistance heater. For example, the heater 38 may include an electrical conduction track, and the heater 38 can be heated when current flows through the electrical conduction track. The heater 38 can be electrically connected to the power supply 31. The heater 38 can receive current from the power supply 31 and generate heat directly. The heater 38 can be a hollow heater arranged around at least a portion of the aerosol generating article S inserted into the insertion space to heat the exterior of the inserted aerosol generating article S, or it can be a heater in the shape of a needle, rod, tube, etc., inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article S in the insertion space to heat the interior.

[0198] For example, refer to Figure 12 The aerosol generating device 3 may include an induction coil 381 surrounding a heater 38. The induction coil 381 can cause the heater 38 to heat up. The heater 38, acting as a susceptor, can heat up based on the magnetic field generated by the alternating current passing through the induction coil 381. The magnetic field can penetrate the heater 38 and generate eddy currents within it. The current can then cause the heater 38 to heat up.

[0199] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating article S may include a sensor, and the sensor inside the aerosol generating article S can generate heat based on the magnetic field generated by the alternating current through the induction coil 381.

[0200] The power source 31 supplies the electrical power required for the operation of the components of the aerosol generating device 3. The power source 31 may be referred to as a battery. The power source 31 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 32, sensor 33, and heater 38. When the aerosol generating device 3 includes an induction coil 381, the power source 31 can supply power to the induction coil 381.

[0201] The control unit 32 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 3. The control unit 32 can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 32 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 31 and the sensor 33. The control unit 32 can control the operation of the induction coil 381. The control unit 32 can control the operation of the display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generating device 3. The control unit 32 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 3 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 3 is in an operational state.

[0202] The control unit 32 can analyze the detection results of the sensor 33 and control subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 32 can control the power supplied to the heater 38 based on the detection results of the sensor 33, thereby starting and stopping the heater 38. For example, the control unit 32 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 38 and the power supply time based on the detection results of the sensor 33, so that the heater 38 heats up to a predetermined temperature or maintains a suitable temperature.

[0203] Sensor 33 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a suction sensor, and an insertion detection sensor. For example, sensor 33 may detect at least one of the temperature of heater 38, the temperature of power supply 31, and the internal and external temperatures of housing 30. For example, sensor 33 may sense a user's puff. For example, sensor 33 may sense whether the aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the internal space.

[0204] The first sensor 33-1 and the second sensor 33-2 can be along the longitudinal direction of the internal space (e.g., Figure 10 and Figure 11Arranged in the -X direction.

[0205] The control unit 32 can receive first information sensed by the first sensor 33-1 and second information sensed by the second sensor 33-2, and can determine the state of the aerosol-generated product S based on the first and second information. The functions of the first sensor 33-1 and the second sensor 33-2 are the same as or similar to the functions of the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, therefore, for the sake of brevity, their detailed description will be omitted.

[0206] On the other hand, the aerosol generating product S may include a first section, a medium section, a cooling section, and a second section. The first section may be composed of an atomizing section. For example, the atomizing section may be filled with a humectant, which may include at least one of, for example, glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. When the first section is configured as an atomizing section, the aerosol generating device 3 does not need to be equipped with an additional evaporator, but instead includes a heater 38 disposed around and / or inside the first section, which is the atomizing section.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatuses 1, 2, and 3, and the aerosol generating systems 100, 200, and 300 including them, can effectively determine whether the aerosol-generated article S is reusable. Furthermore, even in excessively humid conditions, the reusability of the aerosol-generated article S can be accurately determined, and whether the aerosol-generated article S is in an excessively humid state can be effectively judged. Moreover, according to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatuses 1, 2, and 3 can utilize the state information of the aerosol-generated article S to provide users with optimal smoking satisfaction.

[0208] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 includes: a housing 10, which includes a first surface 101, a second surface 102 opposite to the first surface 101, and a side surface 103 located between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, wherein an internal space 104 for inserting an aerosol generating article S is formed on the first surface 101; a first sensor 13-1 disposed adjacent to the internal space 104; a second sensor 13-2 disposed adjacent to the internal space 104 and at a different position from the first sensor 13-1; and a control unit 12 housed within the housing 10 and including at least one processor, wherein the control unit 12 is configured to determine whether the aerosol generating article S is too wet based on first information received from the first sensor 13-1, and to determine whether the aerosol generating article S is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor 13-2.

[0209] In one embodiment, electric fields of different frequency bands can be applied to the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2.

[0210] An electric field of a first frequency band sensitive to humidity detection can be applied to the first sensor 13-1.

[0211] An electric field in a second frequency band that is sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances can be applied to the second sensor 13-2.

[0212] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may apply an electric field to the first sensor 13-1, and after stopping the application of an electric field to the first sensor 13-1, may sequentially apply an electric field to the second sensor 13-2.

[0213] In one embodiment, the internal space 104 may include an internal space end face 1042 located between the first face 101 and the second face 102 and an internal space side face 1043 extending from the edge of the internal space end face 1042 to the first face 101, and the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 may be arranged sequentially along a direction from the first face 101 toward the internal space end face 1042.

[0214] The first sensor 13-1 may include a first capacitive sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may include a second capacitive sensor.

[0215] When the capacitance change measured by the first capacitive sensor is greater than the first set value, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating product S is in an over-humid state.

[0216] When it is determined that the aerosol generating product S is in an over-humid state, if the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than the second set value, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating product S is in an over-humid reuse state.

[0217] When it is determined that the aerosol generating product S is in a non-over-humid state, if the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than the third set value, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating product S is in a normal reuse state.

[0218] A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment may include: step 1001, providing an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article including a first filter section, a medium section disposed downstream of the first filter section and configured to contain a medium, and a second filter section disposed downstream of the medium section; step 1002, measuring the capacitance change of the medium section of the aerosol-generating article using a first capacitive sensor; step 1003, measuring the capacitance change of the first filter section using a second capacitive sensor; and step 1004, determining whether the aerosol-generating article is reusable based on the capacitance change.

[0219] A first frequency band electric field sensitive to humidity detection can be applied to the first capacitive sensor.

[0220] A second frequency band electric field sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances can be applied to the second capacitive sensor.

[0221] Step 1004, which determines whether the aerosol-generating product should be reused based on the capacitance change, may further include the following steps: when the capacitance change measured by the first capacitive sensor is greater than a first set value and the capacitance change measured by the second capacitive sensor is greater than a second set value, it is determined that the aerosol-generating product is in an over-wet reuse state.

[0222] Step 1004, which determines whether the aerosol-generated product should be reused based on the capacitance change, may further include the following steps: when the capacitance change measured by the first capacitive sensor is less than a first set value and the capacitance change measured by the second capacitive sensor is greater than a third set value, it is determined that the aerosol-generated product is in a normal reuse state.

[0223] The above description of the embodiments is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalents can be made to the above embodiments. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure should be defined by the appended claims, and all differences from the equivalents described in the claims will be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1.An aerosol generating device, comprising: a housing including a first face, a second face opposite to the first face, and a side face between the first face and the second face, wherein an inner space into which an aerosol generating article is inserted is formed on the first face; a first sensor disposed adjacent to the inner space; a second sensor disposed adjacent to the inner space and different in position from the first sensor; and a control portion accommodated in the housing and including at least one processor, wherein the control portion determines whether the aerosol generating article is over-wet based on first information received from the first sensor and determines whether the aerosol generating article is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor. 2.The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein different frequency bands of electric fields are applied to the first sensor and the second sensor. 3.The aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein a first frequency band of electric fields sensitive to humidity detection is applied to the first sensor. 4.The aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein a second frequency band of electric fields sensitive to aerosol generating substance detection is applied to the second sensor. 5.The aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein the control portion applies electric fields to the first sensor, and sequentially applies electric fields to the second sensor after stopping the application of electric fields to the first sensor. 6.The aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein the inner space includes an inner space end face between the first face and the second face, and an inner space side face extending from an edge of the inner space end face to the first face, the first sensor and the second sensor are sequentially arranged in a direction from the first face toward the inner space end face. 7.The aerosol generating device of claim 6, wherein the first sensor includes a first capacitive sensor, and the second sensor includes a second capacitive sensor. 8.The aerosol generating device of claim 7, wherein the control portion is configured to determine that the aerosol generating article is in an over-wet state when a change in capacitance measured by the first capacitive sensor is greater than a first set value. 9.The aerosol generating device of claim 8, wherein when it is determined that the aerosol generating article is in an over-wet state, the control portion is configured to determine that the aerosol generating article is in an over-wet reusable state when a change in capacitance measured by the second capacitive sensor is greater than a second set value. 10.The aerosol generating device of claim 8, wherein when it is determined that the aerosol generating article is in a non-over-wet state, the control portion is configured to determine that the aerosol generating article is in a normal reusable state when a change in capacitance measured by the second capacitive sensor is greater than a third set value. 11.A method of determining a state of an aerosol generating article, comprising: ​ The method of determining a state of an aerosol generating article according to claim 11, wherein, an electric field of a first frequency band sensitive to humidity detection is applied to the first capacitive sensor. The method of determining a state of an aerosol generating article according to claim 12, wherein, an electric field of a second frequency band sensitive to aerosol generating substance detection is applied to the second capacitive sensor. The method of determining a state of an aerosol generating article according to claim 11, wherein, The step of determining whether the aerosol generating article is reusable according to the amount of change in capacitance can further include the steps of: when the amount of change in capacitance measured by the first capacitive sensor is greater than a first set value and the amount of change in capacitance measured by the second capacitive sensor is greater than a second set value, determining that the aerosol generating article is in a wet reuse state. The method of determining a state of an aerosol generating article according to claim 11, wherein, The step of determining whether the aerosol generating article is reusable according to the amount of change in capacitance can further include the steps of: when the amount of change in capacitance measured by the first capacitive sensor is less than a first set value and the amount of change in capacitance measured by the second capacitive sensor is greater than a third set value, determining that the aerosol generating article is in a normal reuse state. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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