Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. An aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments of the present invention is an aerosol-generating device including an insertion space into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted, comprising: a heater; a sensor unit; the memory is used for storing a plurality of temperature curves; and at least one processor configured to confirm a temperature of a specific region adjacent to the heater through the sensor portion when a signal for heating an aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space is sensed, and determine a specific temperature profile among the plurality of temperature profiles based on the confirmed temperature, and controlling power supplied to the heater according to the determined specific temperature profile.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Various embodiments of the present application relate to an aerosol generating device capable of more effectively controlling continuous heating of the aerosol generating device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Recently, there is an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, research into aerosol generating devices is actively being conducted.

[0003] Existing aerosol generating devices control the temperature of the aerosol generating device in the same way regardless of the number of puffs or the length of time when a user takes consecutive puffs.

[0004] However, when the aerosol generating device is continuously heated as repeated puffs are taken, there can be a case where temperature control in a specific area adjacent to the heater exceeds a design value.

[0005] In particular, for an internal injection molded part made of a specific material such as plastic, rubber, etc., when the temperature exceeds a prescribed temperature or more, a substance harmful to the human body is generated, and thus it is necessary to control the continuous heating of the aerosol generating device. SUMMARY

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention The technical problem to be solved by the present application is proposed to solve the above problems, and aims to provide an aerosol generating device capable of selectively determining a specific temperature curve from among a plurality of temperature curves based on the temperature of a specific area at a specific time.

[0007] The problems to be solved by the present application are not limited to the above problems, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0008] Means for Solving the Problems The aerosol generating device according to various embodiments of the present application is an aerosol generating device including an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, the device including a housing, a heater, a sensor portion, a memory storing a plurality of temperature curves, and at least one processor configured to, when a signal for heating the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space is sensed, confirm a temperature of a specific area adjacent to the heater through the sensor portion, determine a specific temperature curve among the plurality of temperature curves based on the confirmed temperature, and control power supplied to the heater according to the determined specific temperature curve.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a temperature control method is a method for controlling an aerosol generating apparatus including an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article and a heater. The method may include: a step of sensing a signal for heating an aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space; a step of confirming the temperature of a specific region adjacent to the heater by a sensor unit of the aerosol generating apparatus; a step of determining a specific temperature curve among a plurality of temperature curves based on the confirmed temperature; and a step of controlling the power supplied to the heater according to the determined specific temperature curve.

[0010] Invention Effects According to an embodiment of the present invention, the heating of the aerosol generating device is controlled by a specific temperature curve based on the temperature of a specific region at a specific time, so that even if the aerosol generating device is repeatedly heated, the generation of harmful substances can be minimized.

[0011] The effects of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the operation for determining a temperature profile according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the action of selecting a specific temperature curve from two temperature curves according to different embodiments.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the action of selecting a specific temperature curve from three temperature curves according to different embodiments.

[0018] Figures 7a to 7e It is a graph showing the temperature change in a specific area adjacent to the heater.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the action of temperature control being activated under specific conditions according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, the same or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components in the description of the drawings.

[0021] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used in the following description for the purpose of drafting the specification are used interchangeably or for convenience only, and do not inherently have different meanings or functions. Furthermore, the suffixes “module” or “unit” can include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and can be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” can be a component that is integrally formed or the smallest unit or part of said component that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0022] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of relevant well-known technologies will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the spirit of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and even substitutions included within the scope of the concepts and techniques of this disclosure.

[0023] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe multiple constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0024] When it is mentioned that a component is "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or directly coupled to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when it is mentioned that a component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0025] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0026] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in software that includes one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory 17) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit 12) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1) can invoke at least one of the more than one stored instructions from the storage medium and execute that instruction. This enables the machine to operate in a manner that performs at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The more than one instruction may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between semi-permanent and temporary storage of data in the storage medium.

[0027] In this disclosure, the orientation of the aerosol generating device 1 can be defined using a Cartesian coordinate system as a reference. The x-axis direction in the Cartesian coordinate system can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor unit 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and / or heaters 18 and 24. However, those skilled in the art will understand that, according to the design of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, certain components may be omitted. Figure 1 The shown components may include some of the constituent elements, or new constituent elements may be added.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit 13 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 12. For example, the sensor unit 13 may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a reuse sensor, an overly moist sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge sensor, a cap sensor, and / or a motion sensor. In addition, the sensor unit 13 may also include various sensors such as a liquid level sensor for sensing the remaining liquid in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for sensing water immersion in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0031] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature at which heaters 18 and 24 are heated. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, or the heaters 18 and 24 themselves may function as temperature sensors. As an example, the temperature sensor can be used to measure the impedance of heater 18. The impedance of heater 18 may be correlated with the temperature of heater 18. The temperature sensor can measure the current and / or voltage applied to heater 18 (or induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance of heater 18 can be calculated. The control unit 12 can estimate the temperature of heater 18 based on the calculated impedance.

[0032] As an example, the temperature sensor may include a resistive element (e.g., a thermistor) whose resistance value changes in response to temperature changes in the heaters 18 and 24. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature changes of the heaters 18 and 24 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0033] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of heaters 18 and 24. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of heaters 18 and 24, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of heaters 18 and 24 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0034] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to a surface of the power supply 11 (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board. As an example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power protection circuit (PCM), and the temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11 together with the power protection circuit.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may also be arranged inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 1 to sense the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0036] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0037] As an example, the suction sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1, and the control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the internal pressure. The internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the gas flow channel. The suction sensor may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1 corresponding to the gas flow channel.

[0038] As another example, the suction sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow channel, the space where the aerosol-generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), heaters 18, 24, etc. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the temperature sensor corresponding to the temperature of the airflow channel, etc.

[0039] As another example, the suction sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor can measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the suction sensor can correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the suction sensor can output both a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the suction sensor. In this case, the control unit 12 can receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0040] As another example, the suction sensor may include a capacitive sensor. In this disclosure, a capacitive sensor may also be referred to as a cap sensor or capacitive sensor. When a user performs suction, temperature changes and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol-generating article, thereby potentially changing the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0041] The suction sensor is not limited to the examples above and can be implemented by a variety of sensors used to sense a user's suction.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion sensing sensor may be disposed around the perimeter of the insertion space.

[0043] As an example, the insertion sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The control unit 12 may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0044] As another example, the insertion sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and the at least one coil may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, a change in the magnetic field may be generated around the coil through which the current flows when the aerosol generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The control unit 12 may sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current). Alternatively, an inductive heating element (SUS) may also be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the dielectric portion of the aerosol generating article). Even in this case, the magnetic field around the coil may change based on the insertion or removal of the heating element or the like in the insertion space, and the control unit 12 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the current characteristics of the inductive sensor.

[0045] The insertion sensing sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and can be implemented by various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) used to sense the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generating articles. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor can also include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor may also include a switch, etc., for sensing pressure generated by the aerosol-generating article.

[0046] According to one embodiment, a reuse sensing sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article has been reused. As an example, the reuse sensing sensor can be a color sensor for sensing the color of the aerosol-generating article. If a user uses the aerosol-generating article, the color of a portion of the outer casing of the aerosol-generating article may change due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor can output a signal corresponding to the optical characteristics (e.g., wavelength of light) of the color of the outer casing based on the light reflected from it. If a color change is detected in a portion of the outer casing, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has been used.

[0047] According to one embodiment, an over-humidity sensing sensor can sense whether an aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitive sensor. As an example, the control unit 12 can confirm the level range that the signal level falls into according to a lookup table, and determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0049] As an example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for sensing an identification substance (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., packaging component) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may illuminate the identification substance (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification substance may include a substance that emits light of a specific wavelength based on the illuminated light. The control unit 12 may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the range of said wavelengths.

[0050] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. Depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0051] As another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When the packaging and / or interior (e.g., the dielectric portion) of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space includes a conductor, the characteristics of the current sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the inserted aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor.

[0052] Cigarette identification sensors are not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented using various sensors for sensing whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or for sensing the type of aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, cigarette identification sensors can also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the cartridge sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cartridge. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall effect sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the cap sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cap. For example, the cap sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall effect sensor (HAL IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device 1. If the cap is installed in or removed from the housing, the cap sensing sensor can output a signal corresponding to the installation or removal, and the control unit 12 can sense the installation or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the installation or removal.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the motion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion sensing sensor can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0056] According to one embodiment, in addition to the sensors described above, the sensor unit 13 may also include at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System (GPS)), or a proximity sensor. Since a person skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the output unit 14 can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, a display, a haptic unit, and / or an audio output unit. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 may include the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11, the preheating status of the heaters 18 and 24, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the installation and / or removal status of the cover, or a status where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., abnormal object detected). The display can visually provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), etc. If the display includes a touchpad, the display can also be used as an input unit 15. The haptic unit can tactilely provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the tactile part may include a vibrating motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The sound output part can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the sound output part can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the power source 11 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The power source 11 may include one or more batteries. The power source 11 can supply power to heat the heaters 18 and 24. Furthermore, the power source 11 can supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1, such as the control unit 12, sensor unit 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source 11 can be a replaceable (detachable) battery (hereinafter, a removable battery). The removable battery can be installed in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating apparatus 1, or it can be removed from the battery housing. The removable battery can be charged via wired and / or wireless means.

[0059] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 receive power from power source 11, thereby enabling them to heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or aerosol generating substance within the cartridge. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include heater 18 for heating the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge heater 24 for heating the cartridge (i.e., the solid and / or liquid medium).

[0060] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can be resistance heaters. For example, resistance heaters can include resistive materials such as metals or metal alloys like titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. Resistance heaters can be implemented using metal heating wires, metal heating plates with conductive tracks, or ceramic heating elements.

[0061] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can be induction heating heaters. For example, an induction heating heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) that heats up by a magnetic field. An alternating current flowing through an induction coil can generate a magnetic field in the induction coil. The generated magnetic field can pass through the heater and can generate eddy currents in the induction heating element. Based on the generation of eddy currents, the induction heating element can be heated. According to one embodiment, the induction heating element may also be included inside an aerosol generating article (e.g., a medium section). In this case, the induction heating element included inside the aerosol generating article can also be heated by an induction coil.

[0062] Heaters 18 and 24 are not limited to the examples above, and may include various heating methods, structures, components, etc. for heating aerosol generating articles and / or smoke cartridges, or may be used in place of them.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the input unit 15 can receive information input by a user. For example, the input unit 15 may include a touch panel, a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the memory 17 is hardware used to store various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed in the control unit 12 and data to be processed. For example, the memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card microtype, card-type memory (e.g., SD (Secure Digital) or XD (Extreme Digital) 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. For example, the memory 17 may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic devices). For example, the communication unit 16 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ (Adaptive Network Topology) communication unit, a Cellular Network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a Computer Network (e.g., a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide Area Network (WAN)) communication unit, etc.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the entire operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The control unit 12 may be implemented by an array of multiple logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller (MCU) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains that the control unit may also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 by controlling the power supply 11 to supply power to heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and / or the power supplied to heaters 18 and 24 based on the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 sensed by a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). The control unit 12 can also control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and / or the power supplied to heaters 18 and 24 based on temperature curves and / or power curves stored in the memory 17.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heaters 18 and 24 and the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / DC converter (e.g., a buck converter, buck-boost converter, boost converter, Zener diode, etc.) for converting the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24, and a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) for converting the power supplied to the induction coil (not shown). The DC / AC converter can be implemented using a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including multiple switching elements. For example, the power conversion circuit may include at least one switching element such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), etc.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can regulate the current and / or voltage supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulses input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit (not shown). The duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply 11.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 using at least one of pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID) methods. For example, the control unit 12 can use PWM to supply current pulses with a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature as the control objective based on a temperature curve. The control unit 12 can use PID to control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24, which is a feedback control method based on the difference between the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 and the target temperature, the integral value of the difference over time, and the derivative value of the difference over time.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine the target power as a control objective based on the power curve. Over time, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 to correspond to the preset target power.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can detect user suction by sensing the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. More specifically, the control unit 12 can use a PID control method to control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. When a user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the space where the aerosol-generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), the heaters 18 and 24, etc. Therefore, during the PID power control, the power (or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 may change. The control unit 12 can detect user suction based on the controlled power change.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the heaters 18 and 24 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit based on the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeding a preset limit temperature, so as to reduce the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 or interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the charging / discharging of the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can use a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine the temperature of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 exceeds a first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can cut off the charging of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 exceeds a second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 11 (e.g., discharging). 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 and / or current detection values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article relative to the insertion space. For example, if the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heaters 18 and 24. If the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. If the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 is above a limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heaters 18 and 24 is above a set slope, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the aerosol generating article is determined to be in an over-humidity state by using an over-humidity sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), the control unit 12 can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating article has been reused. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the cartridge is attached and / or removed. For example, if the cartridge sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the cartridge is in a separated state, the control unit 12 can control the interruption of the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or prevent the supply of power to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period (i.e., the preheating interval), it can determine that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted. In the case that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the e-cigarette cartridge is available. For example, if the control unit 12 determines, based on data stored in the memory 17, that the current number of puffs exceeds the maximum number of puffs set for the e-cigarette cartridge, it can determine that the e-cigarette cartridge cannot be used. Alternatively, the control unit 12 can determine that the e-cigarette cartridge cannot be used if the total heating time of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a preset maximum time or if the total electrical power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a preset maximum electrical power. In this case, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 to be interrupted or not to be supplied with power.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the user's suction. For example, the control unit 12 can use a suction sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine whether suction has occurred and / or the intensity of suction. If the number of suctions has reached a preset maximum number of suctions and / or no suction is detected for a preset time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When suction is sensed, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is genuine and / or its type. For example, the control unit 12 can use a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type. As an example, if the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be counterfeit, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. If the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be genuine, the control unit 12 can control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. As another example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 in different ways depending on the type of aerosol-generating article (or cartridge). More specifically, if the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a first aerosol generating article (or first cartridge), the control unit 12 can control the temperature and / or power of the heaters 18 and 24 based on a first temperature curve (or first power curve). If the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a second aerosol generating article (or second cartridge), the control unit 12 can control the temperature and / or power of the heaters 18 and 24 based on a second temperature curve (or second power curve).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13. For example, if the number of suctions counted by the suction sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to provide information that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end its operation in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner. For example, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to provide information about the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of predetermined events. For example, events may include operations performed in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 such as sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, starting heating of the aerosol generating article, sensing suction, ending suction, sensing overheating of heaters 18 and 24, sensing overvoltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, ending heating of the aerosol generating article, turning the power supply of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 11, sensing overcharging of the power supply 11, and ending charging of the power supply 11. For example, the event history may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the sensing value of the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). For example, if the predetermined event is the detection of overheating of heaters 18 and 24, the log data corresponding to the event may include data about the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, the voltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, the current flowing in heaters 18 and 24, etc.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the communication unit 16 to form a communication link with an external device such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0087] According to one embodiment, if authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., heating function). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique phone number representing the user, and whether the user has completed authentication.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send data about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply 11, operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The sent data can be output through a display or the like on the external device.

[0089] According to one embodiment, if a location search request for the aerosol generating device 1 is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit 12 can control the tactile unit to vibrate, or control the display to output objects corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0090] According to one embodiment, if firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can perform a firmware update.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send data about the detection values ​​of at least one sensor unit 13 to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the detection values ​​through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit 12 can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve.

[0092] Although Figure 1 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include at least one switching element and may disconnect the power supply 11 in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging. The aerosol generating device 1 may also include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0093] The aerosol generating article mentioned in this disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium section) and at least one filter rod. The heater 18 may be arranged corresponding to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may contain at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating substance, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating substance may contain glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the additive may contain flavoring agents and / or organic acids, or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may contain an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., the aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine), and / or may contain solid tobacco substances (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). Tobacco substances can be contained in the aerosol generating rod in various forms such as shreds, granules, and powder. According to one embodiment, the additives in the aerosol generating rod may contain an alkaline substance. Based on the alkaline substance, the nicotine in the tobacco substances contained in the aerosol generating rod can have an alkaline pH value (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, the aerosol generating rod can release free base nicotine even at lower temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod may comprise two or more aerosol generating rods, and the two or more aerosol generating rods may each contain tobacco substances and / or non-tobacco substances. Additionally, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each be wrapped by at least one wrapper, and / or wrapped together by at least one wrapper. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0094] The cartridge mentioned in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing substances found in tobacco (including volatile tobacco flavor components) or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. Additionally, the cartridge may include a storage section for containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or a liquid delivery member for impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery member may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The cartridge heater 24 may be included in the cartridge in the form of a coil surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery member or in a structure contacting one side of the liquid delivery member. Alternatively, the cartridge heater 24 may also be included in an aerosol-generating device 1 that can be separated from the cartridge.

[0095] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a housing 10, a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor unit 13, and / or heaters 182, 183 (e.g., Figure 1 (The heater 18). However, those skilled in the art will understand that the components of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 are not limited to those described in this embodiment. Figure 2 or Figure 3 The constituent elements shown can be omitted or new constituent elements can be added. Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "internal heating type" aerosol generating device that heats the inside of the aerosol generating article 2. Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "externally heated" aerosol generating device that heats the outside of the aerosol generating article 2. In the following figures, details related to... Figure 1 Repeated explanation.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the housing 10 may provide an upwardly opening space for insertion of the aerosol generating article 2. In this disclosure, the upwardly opening space may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be recessed into the interior of the housing 10 to a predetermined depth to allow insertion of at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2. The depth of the insertion space may be greater than the length of the region of the aerosol generating article 2 containing the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the interior of the housing 10, and the upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 may protrude outward from the housing 10. A user may hold the exposed upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 in their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0098] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol-generated article 2.

[0099] Reference Figure 2 Heater 182 can be an internal heating type heater.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the internally heated heater can extend relatively far upward within the space (i.e., the insertion space) into which the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted. For example, as shown, the internally heated heater can include rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating elements, but can also include various heating elements such as tubular or plate-shaped heating elements. The internally heated heater can be inserted through the lower part of the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0101] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0102] For example, the resistance heater may include a resistive material on its inner side (e.g., an internal hollow or inner surface) or outer side (e.g., an outer surface), and can be heated as an electric current flows through the resistive material. In this case, the resistance heater may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and can be heated directly by receiving current from the power supply 11. Furthermore, the induction coil 181 may be omitted.

[0103] For example, for an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of an internal heating type heater (e.g., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the heater's length). In this case, to improve the efficiency of induction heating, a magnetic flux concentrator or similar device may also be included outside the induction coil 181. The induction heating heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) and may generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181. According to one embodiment, the induction heating heater (e.g., an induction heating element) (or a heater module including it) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing 10.

[0104] According to one embodiment, heater 182 can also be a multiple heater. The multiple heaters may include a first heater and a second heater, and can be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2. The first and second heaters can be arranged side-by-side along the length direction. The first and second heaters can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, and can be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first and second heaters can be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the first and second heaters can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first portion and a second portion of an aerosol generating rod. Furthermore, when heater 182 is an induction heater, aerosol generating device 1 may include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of the first and second heaters. Alternatively, the first and second induction coils can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first portion and a second portion of a heater 182. In addition, heaters and / or induction coils may include three or more.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the induction heating element is arranged (or contained) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the medium section), and can be implemented such that the induction heating element contained inside the aerosol generating article 2 heats up based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181.

[0106] Reference Figure 3 Heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the externally heated heater can extend upwardly and relatively long around the space where the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the externally heated heater can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. As an example, the externally heated heater can include a tubular shape (e.g., cylindrical) with a hollow interior. The externally heated heater can also include a shape with a hollow interior that surrounds the hollow space. In this case, the externally heated heater can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be referred to as a film heater. The externally heated heater can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The externally heated heater is capable of heating the outside of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the hollow space.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and the terms related to... will be omitted. Figure 2 To reiterate. Furthermore, for induction heating heaters, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include an external heating type heater formed by a tubular induction heating element, and may include an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of the external heating type heater (e.g., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the heater's length). Moreover, the induction coil 181 may also include various forms such as a solenoid coil, a flat spiral coil, a helical coil, a toroidal coil, or combinations thereof. Additionally, if the external heating type heater is a resistance heater, since heating can be achieved by current flowing through the tubular resistance heater (e.g., a thin-film heater), a separate induction coil 181 can be omitted. Furthermore, an insulating material may be arranged externally on the external heating type heater. This reduces the heat dissipated from the heater 183 in the radially outward direction and applied to the outside of the housing 10.

[0109] According to one embodiment, heater 183 can be multiple heaters, with the first and second heaters arranged side-by-side along the length direction and each surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space. The first and second heaters can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, and can be heated sequentially or simultaneously. Alternatively, when heater 183 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 can include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which can be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of the first and second heaters. Alternatively, the first and second induction coils can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first and a second portion of a heater 183.

[0110] and Figure 2 or Figure 3 The situation shown is different, Figure 2 heater 182 and Figure 3 The heater 183 can be included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1. In this case, the heater 182 can heat the inside of the aerosol generating article 2, and the heater 183 can heat the outside of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0111] According to one embodiment, an airflow channel for air circulation can be provided in the aerosol generating apparatus 1. For example, the housing 10 may include a structure (e.g., a hole) that allows air to flow from the outside into the interior of the housing 10. The air flowing into the interior of the housing 10 can enter the aerosol generating article 2 through its lower end (i.e., upstream side). The aerosol generated by heating the aerosol generating article 2 can be inhaled into the user's mouth along with the inflowing air through its upper end (i.e., downstream side).

[0112] The following figures illustrate the determination and control of the temperature profile in the aerosol generating apparatus 1. At least some steps in the flowchart herein may be omitted, or their order may be altered. Furthermore, content from different embodiments of the invention may be added to at least some steps of the flowchart.

[0113] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the operation for determining a temperature profile according to one embodiment.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 can sense a signal for heating the aerosol generating article (step S410). For example, the control unit 12 can sense the insertion space of the aerosol generating article 2 into the housing 10 through the sensor unit 13.

[0115] Then, the aerosol generating device 1 can confirm the temperature of a specific area adjacent to the heaters 18 and 24 of the aerosol generating device 10 (step S430).

[0116] Specifically, the control unit 12 can confirm the temperature of a specific area, such as an injection molded part, located in the area adjacent to the heaters 18 and 24 (i.e., the area within a specified distance from the heaters 18 and 24).

[0117] Injection molded parts located in areas adjacent to heaters 18 and 24, for example, Figure 2 The internally heated heater 182 shown may include: at least a portion of a heater assembly (not shown) configured to include the heater 182, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the heater 182 or an adjacent flange, a mounting base, and at least one sensor from at least one sensor included in the sensor section 13 located in the region adjacent to the heater 182. Additionally, in cases such as... Figure 3 The externally heated heater 183 shown may include: at least a portion of the inner side of the hollow structure, thermal insulation material, and a specific area inside the adjacent housing.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the criteria for determining the area adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 can be preset based on temperature-related data of the aerosol generating device 1 recorded in log data stored in memory 17. The temperature-related data can be accumulated and recorded in memory 17 by at least one temperature sensor during the operation of the aerosol generating device 1, and information about areas where the internal temperature of the housing 10 rises above a predetermined temperature (e.g., injection molded parts) can be stored in memory 17 using the temperature-related data.

[0119] The different embodiments of the present invention are not intended to limit the specific areas adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 as described above, but may include different areas and configurations capable of being heated by heaters 18 and 24 to above a predetermined value to discharge harmful substances. These specific areas (e.g., injection molded parts) may be made of different materials such as plastic, metal, silicon, coils, ceramics, rubber, or glass components, but are not limited to a specific material. In addition, the specific areas adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 may be calculated in different ways based on information such as the type of aerosol generating device 1, the type of internal configuration of aerosol generating device 1, and the distance between the injection molded parts and heaters 18 and 24.

[0120] The temperature of a specific area adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 can be sensed by at least one temperature sensor included in sensor section 13. In this case, at least one temperature sensor can be distinguished into a sensor for confirming the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and a sensor for sensing a specific area (e.g., injection molded part) adjacent to heaters 18 and 24.

[0121] Additionally, when an induction heating heater (e.g., a sensor) (or a heater module including it) is configured to be separable from the housing 10, the temperature sensor can also confirm the temperature of a specific area adjacent to the heaters 18 and 24 by means of resistance, current, and voltage measurements (e.g., Thevenin equivalent circuit).

[0122] According to one embodiment, based on the temperature profile strategy of the aerosol generating device 1 pre-set in the memory 17, the temperature of the region adjacent to the heaters 18 and 24 can also be set in a way that pre-specifies the temperature of at least one injection molded part. In this case, at least one temperature sensor capable of sensing the pre-specified temperature of the injection molded part can be located at a position within a specified distance from the corresponding injection molded part.

[0123] Subsequently, the aerosol generating device 1 can determine a specific temperature curve from among multiple temperature curves (step S450).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine a specific temperature curve among multiple temperature curves based on the temperature of a specific region adjacent to the heaters 18 and 24. The temperature of the specific region can be compared with at least one preset threshold value, which will be explained in detail later. Figures 5 to 6 To describe it.

[0125] Then, the aerosol generating device 1 can control the power supplied to the heater according to the determined temperature curve (step S470).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the memory 17 of the aerosol generating device 1 can store multiple different temperature profiles.

[0127] Multiple temperature profiles may include: a first interval configured to control heaters 18 and 24 based on a target temperature; and a second interval configured to control heaters 18 and 24 based on a maintenance temperature. For example, the first interval may be a preheating interval for heating heaters 18 and 24 to the target temperature. According to one embodiment, the target temperature of the preheating interval may also include more than two target temperatures. Additionally, for example, the second interval may be a maintenance interval, and is a range in which heaters 18 and 24 are controlled to substantially maintain their temperature at a specific maintenance temperature for the purpose of aerosol generation article 2 suction. The second interval is positioned after the first interval, and the maintenance temperature may be set lower than the target temperature.

[0128] The following Figures 5 to 7e The text will explain the content of multiple temperature curves and the selection of a specific temperature curve from multiple temperature curves.

[0129] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the action of selecting a specific temperature curve from two temperature curves according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 In the content and Figure 4 Descriptions of repeated content will be omitted. Additionally, please refer to... Figures 7a to 7c Come to Figure 5 Please provide an explanation. Figures 7a to 7c It is a graph showing the temperature change in a specific area adjacent to the heaters after the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted and heated by the heaters 18 and 24. Figures 7a to 7c The temperature curve is a graph showing the temperature change of a specific injection molded part (not the heaters 18, 24) adjacent to the heaters 18, 24.

[0130] Reference Figure 5 The temperature sensed based on the heating signal can be confirmed (step S510).

[0131] For example, when it senses that an aerosol-generating item (e.g., a cartridge) is inserted into the insertion space of the aerosol-generating device 1 or receives a user input signal (e.g., a button, touch, etc.), the aerosol-generating device 1 can recognize a signal used to heat the aerosol-generating item 2 (e.g., a heating signal). For example, in Figure 7a If the time when the heating signal of the aerosol generating article 2 is detected is set as t0, then at time t0, the control unit 12 can confirm the temperature state of a specific injection molded part.

[0132] Subsequently, the aerosol generating device 1 can confirm whether the temperature of a specific injection molded part adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 is at the first critical value T. th1 The above (step S520).

[0133] If the temperature of a specific injection molded part adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 is lower than the first critical value T th1 If (No) in step S520, then the aerosol generating device 1 can select the first temperature curve as the default temperature curve from among multiple temperature curves (step S530). Furthermore, by controlling the power applied to the heaters 18 and 24 according to the setting of the selected first temperature curve, the heating of the heaters 18 and 24 can be controlled (step S550).

[0134] Figure 7a The figure shows the temperature change of the injection molded part sensed through this first temperature profile control. Figure 7a This is a graph showing the temperature of a specific injection molded part adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 when it is within the normal temperature range. That is, this might be the state after a considerable period of time has passed since the previous suction was completed, when the aerosol-generating article 2 is reinserted. In this case, the temperature of the injection molded part at time t0, when the heating signal of the aerosol-generating article 2 is detected, might be as follows: Figure 5 As shown in diagram a, it is either not sensed or sensed at a relatively low temperature. In this disclosure, "suction" refers to a series of heating actions from the moment heating of the aerosol generating article 2 begins until the moment heating ends. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may start heating the aerosol generating article 2 based on a heating signal. Subsequently, when a specified number of suctions and / or a specified time of heating of the aerosol generating article 2 are sensed, the aerosol generating device 1 may end the heating of the aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating device 1 may also end the heating of the aerosol generating article 2 when the aerosol generating article 2 is removed from the insertion space or when a user input signal (e.g., button, touch, etc.) is received. In addition, in this disclosure, "end of suction" may refer to the end of heating of the aerosol generating article 2. In addition, in this disclosure, "continuous suction" (or, repeated suction) may refer to starting a second suction based on a heating signal, etc., after the heating of the first suction has ended.

[0135] like Figure 7a The temperature change PT1 of the injection molded part shown is sensed by controlling the heaters 18 and 24 according to a first temperature curve. For example, the heaters 18 and 24 are controlled to heat according to the target temperature and maintenance temperature set in the first temperature curve, and as the heaters 18 and 24 heat up, the temperature of a particular injection molded part can be sensed. Figure 7a The temperature change PT1 is shown as a curve.

[0136] More specifically, as heaters 18 and 24 are heated according to the first temperature profile, the temperature of the injection molded part adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 can rise to T. a Then, before the end of the use of aerosol-generating article 2 at time t1, the heating of heaters 18 and 24 can be maintained to ensure continuous suction of aerosol-generating article 2. Thus, the temperature of the injection-molded part can converge to any temperature T. b Near, or maintained at that temperature T b That's all. Finally, when the use of the aerosol-generated article ends at time t1, as heaters 18 and 24 stop heating, the temperature of the injection-molded part will also drop to T. b the following.

[0137] In addition, the first temperature curve may include a first interval (e.g., preheating interval 601) set based on the target temperature of the first temperature curve and a second interval (e.g., maintenance interval 603) set based on the maintenance temperature of the first temperature curve.

[0138] Refer again Figure 5 When the temperature of a specific injection molded part is above the first critical value (Yes in step S520), the aerosol generating device 1 can select a second temperature curve from among multiple temperature curves (step S540). Furthermore, the control unit 12 can control the power applied to the heaters 18 and 24 according to the setting of the selected second temperature curve, thereby controlling the heating of the heaters 18 and 24 (step S550).

[0139] The temperature change of the injection molded part sensed through the control of this second temperature curve is as follows: Figure 7b As shown. In Figure 7b The document also shows the temperature of specific injection molded parts at [temperature range]. Figure 7a The curve shows a situation where the temperature exceeds the normal range after the original temperature change time. That is, it could be a situation where the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted and heated before the specified time has elapsed after the original heating end time t1 of the aerosol-generating article 2. In this case, it can be confirmed that at time t3, when the heating signal is re-identified due to continuous suction, the temperature T3 of the injection molded part can be sensed at the first critical value T. th1above.

[0140] Since the temperature T3 of the injection molded part is at the first critical value T3 at the moment t3 when the heating signal is detected for the second time, T3 is already at the second critical value T. th1 Therefore, the control unit 12 can select a second temperature curve from multiple temperature curves. The control unit 12 can control the heating of heaters 18 and 24 based on the target temperature and maintenance temperature set in the second temperature curve, and as heaters 18 and 24 heat up, after detecting additional heating at time t3, it can sense the temperature of a specific injection molded part. Figure 7b The temperature change PT2 is shown as a curve.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the target temperature of the second temperature curve can be set lower than the target temperature of the first temperature curve, and the holding temperature of the second temperature curve can be set to the same as the holding temperature of the first temperature curve. That is, the first and second temperature curves are set in a manner that has the same holding temperature but differs only in their target temperatures. Therefore, observation... Figure 7b The temperature change PT2 of the injection molded part after time t3 shows that its increase is lower than that of the temperature change PT1 controlled by the first temperature curve, while the temperature T that converges in the maintenance interval is lower. b Then they are the same.

[0142] In addition, Figure 7c The figure shows the temperature change of the injection molded part at the start of the second heating after a sufficient time has elapsed since the first heating ended, even though continuous suction events occurred.

[0143] exist Figure 7c In this context, the time t4 at which the second heating signal is detected can be later than the aforementioned time. Figure 7b The control unit 12 detects the second heating signal at time t3. After the first heating ends at time t1, the temperature of the injection molded part gradually decreases. Then, at time t4, when heating of the second aerosol-generating article 2 is detected, the control unit 12 can detect that the temperature T4 of the injection molded part is lower than the first critical value T. th1 Therefore, in Figure 7c In the case shown, the first temperature curve is selected instead of the second temperature curve, and the heating of heaters 18 and 24 can be controlled according to the settings of the first temperature curve. Therefore, the temperature change of the injection molded part after time t4 can be sensed according to... Figure 7a The temperature change PT1 is sensed by controlling the first temperature curve.

[0144] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of selecting a specific temperature curve from three temperature curves according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 In the content and Figure 4 andFigure 5 Repeated descriptions will be omitted. Additionally, please refer to... Figures 7d to 7e Come to Figure 6 Please provide an explanation. Figures 7d to 7e The temperature profiles also show the temperature profiles of specific injection molded parts adjacent to heaters 18 and 24, rather than the temperatures of heaters 18 and 24 themselves.

[0145] First, by sensing the heating signal for the aerosol generating article 2, the temperature of a specific area adjacent to the heaters 18 and 24 can be confirmed (step S610).

[0146] When the temperature of the specific area is confirmed to be below the first critical value T th1 When (No in step S620), determine the first temperature curve (step S630), and control heaters 18 and 24 according to the determined first temperature curve (step S670).

[0147] If the temperature of the identified specific region is the first critical value T th1 If the temperature is below the second critical value (Yes in step S620), then a second temperature curve is determined (Step S650), and heaters 18 and 24 are controlled according to the determined second temperature curve (Step S670). The control of heaters 18 and 24 based on the first and second temperature curves described above can be achieved in accordance with the above... Figure 5 It can be achieved using the same method with the same content.

[0148] If the temperature of the identified specific region is the second critical value T th2 If the above is true (Yes in step S620), then the third temperature curve is determined (step S660), and heaters 18 and 24 are controlled according to the determined third temperature curve (step S670).

[0149] An example of temperature control based on this third temperature curve is as follows: Figure 7d As shown. Figure 7d The text shows the original... Figure 7a Following a temperature change in a specific injection-molded part, at time t2 when an additional heating signal from aerosol-generating article 2 is detected, the temperature change curve of the corresponding injection-molded part when its temperature exceeds the normal range is obtained. In this case, it can be confirmed that at time t2 when a heating signal is detected again due to a continuous suction event, the temperature T2 of the injection-molded part is the second critical value T. th2 above.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the second critical value T th2 It can be more than the first critical value T th1Higher temperature. That is, heating of the aerosol-generating article 2 is achieved in a shorter time, so at the moment t2 when the heating signal is sensed, the temperature of the injection molded parts adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 is higher than that of the parts generated by the aerosol generator. Figures 7b to 7c The temperature is higher in this condition. Under these conditions, the cumulative amount of harmful substances emitted from the corresponding injection molded parts may be higher than... Figures 7b to 7c The situation is more complex. Therefore, heaters 18 and 24 can be controlled by a third temperature curve with a target temperature or a lower holding temperature than the second temperature curve.

[0151] Specifically, in Figure 7d In the middle, because at the moment t2 when the heating signal is recognized for the second time, the temperature T2 of the injection molded part is at the second critical value T. th2 Therefore, the control unit 12 can select a third temperature curve from multiple temperature curves. The control unit 12 can control the heating of heaters 18 and 24 based on the target temperature and maintenance temperature set in the third temperature curve, and as heaters 18 and 24 heat up, the temperature of a specific injection molded part can be sensed, such as... Figure 7d The temperature change PT3 is shown as a curve. Figure 7d As shown, after time t2, it can be confirmed that the temperature change PT3 of the injection molded part is lower overall than the temperature change PT1 of the injection molded part sensed by the first temperature curve and the temperature change PT2 of the injection molded part sensed by the second temperature curve.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the target temperature of the third temperature curve can be set lower than the target temperatures of the first and second temperature curves, and the holding temperature of the third temperature curve can be set to be the same as the holding temperatures of the first and second temperature curves. That is, the first, second, and third temperature curves have the same holding temperature, but their target temperatures can be set differently from each other. Therefore, Figure 7d Although the temperature change PT3 sensed from the injection molded part after time t2 is lower than the temperature change PT1 sensed by the first temperature curve control and the temperature change PT2 sensed by the second temperature curve control, it converges at temperature T in the maintenance interval. b Can be with Figure 7b and Figure 7c The convergence temperature of the injection molded parts is the same.

[0153] in addition, Figure 7e The paper discloses the temperature changes of injection molded parts sensed through the control of multiple temperature profiles with greater variety.

[0154] According to one embodiment, in a plurality of temperature profiles, at least a portion of the holding temperature of each of the plurality of temperature profiles may be different. As described above.Figures 7a to 7d The temperature change of the injection molded part shown is detected by temperature curve control, which sets multiple temperature curves such that each has the same maintenance temperature, only the target temperature is different. However, the maintenance temperatures of the temperature curves can also be different. In this case, the maintenance temperature of the temperature curve can be set above the temperature at which the user can perform suction, that is, above the specified temperature at which the medium portion of the aerosol-generating article 2 can be sufficiently heated.

[0155] According to one embodiment, when at least a portion of the target temperatures of each of a plurality of temperature curves are the same, the times it takes for them to reach the same target temperature can be set to be different from each other. Additionally, when at least a portion of the sustaining temperatures of each of the plurality of temperature curves are the same, the times it takes for them to reach the same sustaining temperature can be set to be different from each other.

[0156] For example, refer to Figure 7e By controlling heaters 18 and 24 according to the selected fourth temperature curve, the temperature change PT4 of the injection molded part adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 can be detected. Although the fourth temperature curve has the same target temperature and the same holding temperature as the first temperature curve, it can be set so that the times at which the target temperature and the holding temperature are different from each other.

[0157] More specifically, in Figure 7e In the process, the temperature change PT1 of the injection molded part is controlled according to the first temperature curve at t. a The highest temperature Ta is reached at a certain time. In contrast, the temperature change PT4 of the injection molded part, controlled by the fourth temperature curve, is controlled at t. a1 The highest temperature Ta is reached at any given time. The difference in temperature variation of this injection molded part is because even if at least some of the multiple temperature profiles are set to have the same target temperature or the same holding temperature, the temperature control varies over time.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the fifth temperature profile can be set to have a different target temperature and a different holding temperature than the first temperature profile. (See also...) Figure 7e The diagram illustrates the temperature change PT5 of the injection molded part sensed according to the fifth temperature profile. The fifth temperature profile can have a lower target temperature and a lower holding temperature than the first and second temperature profiles. It can be confirmed that the temperature change PT5 of the injection molded part controlled according to the fifth temperature profile can achieve a lower maximum temperature and can maintain a lower holding temperature compared to the temperature change PT4 sensed according to the fourth temperature profile. c Maintain.

[0159] In addition, regarding the criteria for selecting the fourth and fifth temperature curves as described above, although they can be selected based on the above method (i.e., whether they are above any temperature critical value), they can also be selected based on various criteria such as the type of aerosol generating device and the user's personal accumulated log data.

[0160] Figure 8 This invention discloses how temperature control is activated under specific conditions according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 The content is related to the above. Figures 4 to 6 Duplicate content will be omitted.

[0161] In the above Figures 4 to 6 In this process, regardless of whether suction is continuous or not, a temperature check is performed on a specific area at a specific time. In contrast, in... Figure 8 The example shown first determines whether a continuous suction time requiring special temperature control has occurred, then confirms the temperature of a specific area and selects a specific temperature profile.

[0162] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 can confirm the end of the first heating (step S810). The end of the first heating may refer, for example, the end of heating of the first aerosol generating article 2.

[0163] Afterwards, the aerosol generating device 1 can confirm whether a second heating has started within a predetermined time after the first heating ends (step S820). This second heating may refer to, for example, the user starting to heat the second aerosol generating article 2 for additional suction. In this case, the predetermined time for determining continuous suction can be preset, stored in the memory 17, or set by the user.

[0164] If the second heating is started after a specified time has elapsed (No in step S820), the aerosol generating device 1 can select the first temperature curve as the default temperature curve (step S830), and control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 according to the selected first temperature curve (step S860).

[0165] Conversely, if a second heating begins within a specified time after the first heating ends (Yes in step S820), the aerosol generating device 1 can confirm the temperature of a specific area adjacent to heaters 18 and 24 (step S840), select a specific temperature curve from multiple temperature curves (step S850), and control heaters 18 and 24 according to the selected specific temperature curve. The contents of steps S840 to S860 can be the same as described above. Figures 5 to 6 The same method can be used to execute it.

[0166] In this invention, through the above embodiments, even when the aerosol-generating article 2 is continuously heated, the most effective temperature profile can be selected to control the heating of heaters 18 and 24. This minimizes the generation of harmful substances in specific areas (e.g., injection-molded parts) adjacent to heaters 18 and 24.

[0167] According to various embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus includes an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article, comprising: a housing; a heater; a sensor unit; a memory storing a plurality of temperature profiles; and at least one processor configured to, when sensing a signal for heating an aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, confirm the temperature of a specific region adjacent to the heater via the sensor unit, determine a specific temperature profile among the plurality of temperature profiles based on the confirmed temperature, and control the power supplied to the heater according to the determined specific temperature profile.

[0168] In some embodiments, the sensor unit includes at least one temperature sensor capable of sensing the temperature of the specific area. The at least one temperature sensor is disposed inside the housing of the aerosol generating device and may be located in an area within a specified distance from the heater.

[0169] In some embodiments, the at least one temperature sensor may be configured separately from the temperature sensor used to confirm the temperature of the heater.

[0170] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves may include: a first interval configured to control the heater based on a target temperature; and a second interval configured to be set after the first interval and to control the heater based on a maintenance temperature that is lower than the target temperature.

[0171] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves includes a first temperature curve and a second temperature curve. When the temperature of the specific region is lower than a first threshold, the at least one processor selects the first temperature curve. When the temperature of the specific region is above the first threshold, the at least one processor selects the second temperature curve. The target temperature of the second temperature curve can be set to be lower than the target temperature of the first temperature curve, or the maintenance temperature of the second temperature curve can be set to be lower than the maintenance temperature of the first temperature curve.

[0172] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves further includes a third temperature curve. When the temperature of the specific region is above a second critical value that is higher than the first critical value, the at least one processor selects the third temperature curve. The target temperature of the third temperature curve can be set to be lower than the target temperature of the second temperature curve, or the maintenance temperature of the third temperature curve can be set to be lower than the maintenance temperature of the second temperature curve.

[0173] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves may be configured such that at least a portion of the target temperature of each of the plurality of temperature curves is different from each other, or at least a portion of the maintenance temperature of each of the plurality of temperature curves is different from each other.

[0174] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves may be configured such that when at least a portion of the target temperatures of each of the plurality of temperature curves are the same as each other, the times to reach the same target temperature are different from each other.

[0175] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves may be configured such that, while at least a portion of the sustaining temperatures of each of the plurality of temperature curves are the same, the times to reach the same sustaining temperature are different from each other.

[0176] In some embodiments, the at least one processor may be configured to: confirm the temperature of the specific region and determine the specific temperature profile when the second heating begins within a predetermined time after the first heating of the aerosol generating apparatus has ended.

[0177] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a temperature control method for an aerosol generating apparatus including an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article may include: a step of sensing a signal for heating an aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space; a step of confirming the temperature of a specific region adjacent to the heater by a sensor unit of the aerosol generating apparatus; a step of determining a specific temperature curve among a plurality of temperature curves based on the confirmed temperature; and a step of controlling the power supplied to the heater according to the determined specific temperature curve.

[0178] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves may include: a first interval configured to control the heater based on a target temperature; and a second interval configured to control the heater based on a maintenance temperature that is lower than the target temperature, after the first interval.

[0179] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves includes a first temperature curve and a second temperature curve. The step of determining the specific temperature curve among the plurality of temperature curves includes: selecting the first temperature curve when the temperature of the specific region is below a first critical value; and selecting the second temperature curve when the temperature of the specific region is above the first critical value. The target temperature of the second temperature curve may be set to be lower than the target temperature of the first temperature curve, or the maintenance temperature of the second temperature curve may be set to be lower than the maintenance temperature of the first temperature curve.

[0180] In some embodiments, the plurality of temperature curves further includes a third temperature curve, and the step of determining the specific temperature curve among the plurality of temperature curves further includes the step of selecting the third temperature curve when the temperature of the specific region is above a second critical value that is higher than the first critical value. The target temperature of the third temperature curve may be set to be lower than the target temperature of the second temperature curve, or the maintenance temperature of the third temperature curve may be set to be lower than the maintenance temperature of the second temperature curve.

[0181] In some embodiments, the step of confirming the temperature of a specific area adjacent to the heater may be performed when the second heating begins within a predetermined time after the first heating of the aerosol generating device has ended.

[0182] The embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above are not exclusive to or different from each other. The configurations or functions of each of the embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above can be used together or combined.

[0183] For example, this means that structure A illustrated in a particular embodiment and / or the accompanying drawings can be combined with structure B illustrated in other embodiments and / or the accompanying drawings. That is, it means that even if the combination between structures is not directly described, it is assumed that the combination can be made unless it is explicitly stated that the combination is not possible.

[0184] The detailed description above should not be construed as limiting in any way, but should be regarded as exemplary. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all variations within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus comprising an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating apparatus characterized in that it includes: case, heater, Sensors section The memory stores multiple temperature profiles, and At least one processor is configured to, when sensing a signal for heating an aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space, confirm the temperature of a specific area adjacent to the heater via the sensor unit, determine a specific temperature curve among a plurality of temperature curves based on the confirmed temperature, and control the power supplied to the heater according to the determined specific temperature curve.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor unit includes: At least one temperature sensor is capable of sensing the temperature of the specific area. The at least one temperature sensor is disposed inside the housing of the aerosol generating device and is located in an area within a specified distance from the heater.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The at least one temperature sensor is configured separately from the temperature sensor used to confirm the temperature of the heater.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of temperature curves include: The first zone is configured to control the heater based on a target temperature, and The second zone is set after the first zone and is configured to control the heater based on a maintenance temperature that is lower than the target temperature.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The plurality of temperature curves includes a first temperature curve and a second temperature curve. The at least one processor is configured to: When the temperature in the specific region is below a first critical value, the first temperature curve is selected. When the temperature in the specific region is above the first critical value, the second temperature curve is selected. The target temperature of the second temperature curve is set to be lower than the target temperature of the first temperature curve, or the maintenance temperature of the second temperature curve is set to be lower than the maintenance temperature of the first temperature curve.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The plurality of temperature curves also includes a third temperature curve. The at least one processor is configured as follows: When the temperature in the specific region is above a second critical value that is higher than the first critical value, the third temperature curve is selected. The target temperature of the third temperature curve is set to be lower than the target temperature of the second temperature curve, or the maintenance temperature of the third temperature curve is set to be lower than the maintenance temperature of the second temperature curve.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The multiple temperature curves are set as follows: At least a portion of the target temperature for each of the plurality of temperature curves is different. Or at least a portion of the holding temperatures of each of the plurality of temperature curves are different from each other.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The multiple temperature curves are set as follows: When at least a portion of the target temperatures of each of the plurality of temperature curves are the same as each other, the times to reach the same target temperature are different for each other.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The multiple temperature curves are set as follows: When at least a portion of the sustaining temperatures of each of the plurality of temperature curves are the same, the times to reach the same sustaining temperature are different for each other.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one processor is configured as follows: When the second heating begins within a predetermined time after the first heating of the aerosol generating device has ended, the temperature of the specific area is confirmed and the specific temperature profile is determined.

11. A temperature control method for an aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article and a heater. The temperature control method is characterized by including: The step of sensing a signal for heating an aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The step of confirming the temperature of a specific area adjacent to the heater using the sensor unit of the aerosol generating device. Based on the confirmed temperature, the step of determining a specific temperature curve from multiple temperature curves, and The step of controlling the power supplied to the heater according to the determined specific temperature curve.

12. The temperature control method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The plurality of temperature curves include: The first zone is configured to control the heater based on a target temperature, and The second interval is set after the first interval and is configured to control the heater based on a maintenance temperature that is lower than the target temperature.

13. The temperature control method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The plurality of temperature curves includes a first temperature curve and a second temperature curve. The step of determining the specific temperature curve from the plurality of temperature curves includes: The step of selecting the first temperature curve when the temperature of the specific region is lower than the first critical value, and The step of selecting the second temperature curve when the temperature of the specific region is above the first critical value; The target temperature of the second temperature curve is set to be lower than the target temperature of the first temperature curve, or the maintenance temperature of the second temperature curve is set to be lower than the maintenance temperature of the first temperature curve.

14. The temperature control method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The plurality of temperature curves also includes a third temperature curve. The step of determining the specific temperature curve from the plurality of temperature curves further includes: The step of selecting the third temperature curve when the temperature of the specific region is above a second critical value that is higher than the first critical value; The target temperature of the third temperature curve is set to be lower than the target temperature of the second temperature curve, or the maintenance temperature of the third temperature curve is set to be lower than the maintenance temperature of the second temperature curve.

15. The temperature control method according to claim 11, characterized in that, When the second heating begins within a predetermined time after the first heating of the aerosol generating device has ended, a step is performed to confirm the temperature of a specific area adjacent to the heater.

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