Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device includes a cavity housing providing a cavity for receiving at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article, an insertion sensing sensor, at least a portion of the insertion sensing sensor protruding into the cavity, the insertion sensing sensor being configured to sense the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity housing. The aerosol generating device includes an insertion sensing sensor that senses, in a piezoelectric pressure manner, a pressure applied by pressing a protruding portion of the aerosol generating article due to contact with the aerosol generating article, and a control unit that determines whether or not the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device on the basis of the intensity of the sensed pressure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus, and more specifically, to a method for monitoring the insertion of an aerosol generating article using a piezoelectric pressure sensor. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes has been increasing. For example, there is a growing need for methods that generate aerosols by heating aerosol-generating substances, rather than by burning cigarettes. Therefore, research on heated aerosol generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] In addition, as an effort to improve the ease of use of the aerosol generating device, an attempt was made to utilize a function that can activate the heater by accurately identifying the insertion of the aerosol generating item. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem the invention aims to solve Aerosol generating devices can incorporate various sensors, each of which is susceptible to malfunction due to environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, or due to fatigue buildup from frequent use. Sensor malfunctions can shorten the lifespan of the aerosol generating device or cause breakdowns, potentially reducing its safety. In particular, while various methods for sensing the insertion of aerosol-generating articles have been proposed, there is still a need for a method that is less sensitive to temperature and humidity and can reliably sense even when droplet deposition occurs due to use. The technical problem of this invention is not limited to the problems described above; other technical problems can be deduced from the following embodiments.

[0005] means for solving problems According to this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus senses insertion by means of a piezoelectric change in pressure physically applied to the insertion sensing sensor due to the insertion of the aerosol-generated article, thereby reducing sensitivity to environmental influences and enabling accurate insertion sensing of the aerosol-generated article despite the influence of droplet deposition.

[0006] According to one aspect, an aerosol generating apparatus includes: a cavity housing, providing a cavity for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol generating article, an insertion sensing sensor, at least a portion of the insertion sensing sensor protruding into the cavity, wherein when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity housing, the insertion sensing sensor senses, in a piezoelectric pressure manner, the pressure applied by the protruding portion due to contact with the aerosol generating article, and a control unit that determines whether the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus based on the intensity of the sensed pressure.

[0007] Invention Effects Based on the above, by sensing insertion based on the pressure physically applied to the insertion sensing sensor upon insertion of the aerosol-generating article, sensitivity to environmental impacts can be reduced, and accurate insertion sensing of the aerosol-generating article can be performed even when affected by droplet deposition due to frequent use. Furthermore, by linking the insertion sensing function to the heater's heating function, heating can begin immediately upon insertion of the aerosol-generating article, thus allowing users to start smoking without cumbersome operations and improving user convenience. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the method of inserting a detection aerosol generating article into the interior of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating different configurations of an insertion sensing sensor within the housing of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating how an insertion sensing sensor, according to one embodiment, uses a piezoelectric method to sense the insertion of an aerosol-generated article from the side.

[0015] Figure 8 These are perspective and plan views illustrating a cavity housing configured with an insertion sensing sensor according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 These are perspective and plan views illustrating a cavity housing configured with an insertion sensing sensor according to another embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-section of a contact module disposed in an insertion sensing sensor according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating how an insertion sensing sensor, according to one embodiment, uses piezoelectricity to sense the insertion of an aerosol-generated article from the bottom surface (substrate).

[0019] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the insertion of an article into an aerosol-generated object using a piezoelectric method, according to another embodiment of the insertion sensing sensor.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating the insertion of an aerosol-generated article using a piezoelectric method from the bottom surface by an insertion sensing sensor according to yet another embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14 It is used for explanation Figure 13 Plan view of different examples of insertion sensing sensors in a cavity housing.

[0022] Figure 15 This is a flowchart relating to a method for controlling the heating of a heater by sensing the insertion of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0023] According to one aspect, an aerosol generating apparatus includes: a cavity housing, providing a cavity for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol generating article, an insertion sensing sensor, at least a portion of the insertion sensing sensor protruding into the cavity, wherein when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity housing, the insertion sensing sensor senses, in a piezoelectric pressure manner, the pressure applied by the protruding portion due to contact with the aerosol generating article, and a control unit that determines whether the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus based on the intensity of the sensed pressure.

[0024] Additionally, the insertion sensing sensor includes at least one piezoelectric pressure sensing module configured to be adjacent to at least one of the side and bottom surfaces of the cavity housing.

[0025] In addition, the insertion sensing sensor includes a plurality of piezoelectric pressure sensing modules disposed at different positions; when it is determined that two or more of the plurality of piezoelectric pressure sensing modules sense a pressure intensity of a predetermined magnitude or greater, the control unit determines that the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device.

[0026] Additionally, the insertion sensing sensor is disposed on the side of the cavity housing and senses the pressure applied in a radial direction perpendicular to the insertion direction due to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0027] Additionally, the insertion sensing sensor includes: an annular piezoelectric pressure sensing module surrounding the side of the cavity housing; the diameter of the annular piezoelectric pressure sensing module is smaller than the diameter of the cavity housing, so that at least a portion of the annular piezoelectric pressure sensing module protrudes into the cavity.

[0028] Additionally, the insertion sensing sensor includes two or more piezoelectric pressure sensing modules, arranged in a relative manner on the side of the cavity housing.

[0029] Additionally, the insertion sensing sensor includes: a rod-shaped piezoelectric pressure sensing module configured to be adjacent to the bottom surface of the cavity housing or to a spacer structure attached to the cavity housing, at least a portion of the rod-shaped piezoelectric pressure sensing module protruding into the cavity housing; the rod-shaped piezoelectric pressure sensing module senses the pressure applied in the insertion direction due to the insertion of the aerosol generating article.

[0030] Additionally, the bottom surface or the spacer structure has openings around the rod-shaped piezoelectric pressure sensing module to provide an airflow channel that allows external air to flow into the aerosol generating article.

[0031] Additionally, the insertion sensing sensor includes: a planar piezoelectric pressure sensing module disposed on the bottom surface of the cavity housing or attached to a spacer structure of the cavity housing; the planar piezoelectric pressure sensing module senses the pressure applied along the insertion direction due to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0032] Furthermore, based on the insertion direction of the aerosol generating article, the cavity housing is divided into a proximal region near the opening of the cavity housing, a distal region away from the opening of the cavity housing, and an intermediate region located between the proximal region and the distal region. Based on the type of heater provided in the aerosol generating device, the insertion sensing sensor is disposed in at least one of the proximal region, the distal region, and the intermediate region.

[0033] Additionally, the insertion sensing sensor is disposed in at least one region of the cavity housing that is not directly heated by the heater, among the base region, the proximal region, the distal region, and the intermediate region.

[0034] Additionally, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article is inserted, the control unit controls the heater to start heating the aerosol generating article.

[0035] In addition, the control unit compares the intensity of the pressure sensed by the insertion sensing sensor with a reference pressure, and determines that the aerosol generating article is inserted when it determines that the intensity of the sensed pressure exceeds the reference pressure.

[0036] Additionally, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity housing, the control unit controls the heater to start heating the aerosol generating article.

[0037] Hereinafter, 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.

[0038] 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).

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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 periphery of the insertion space. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor may also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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 magnetic 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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).

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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).

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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 history of events may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is 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 sensing 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol-generated article 2.

[0116] Reference Figure 2 Heater 182 can be an internal heating type heater.

[0117] 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.

[0118] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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 and second part of an aerosol generating rod. Furthermore, when heater 182 is an induction heater, the 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 heaters can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first and second part of a heater 182. In addition, heaters and / or induction coils may include three or more.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the induction heating element is arranged (or contained) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the dielectric part), and can be implemented to heat the induction heating element contained inside the aerosol generating article 2 based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181.

[0123] Reference Figure 3 Heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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). Additionally, the induction coil 181 may also include a fan coil. Furthermore, 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. Additionally, insulating material may be arranged externally to 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.

[0126] 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 heaters can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first and a second portion of heater 183.

[0127] and Figure 2 or Figure 3 The situation shown is different, Figure 2 heater 182 and Figure 3 The heater 183 can be included together with 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.

[0128] 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).

[0129] Figure 4 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0130] 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 183, 24 (e.g., Figure 1 (Heats 18, 24). 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 4 The constituent elements shown may be partially omitted, or new constituent elements may be added. In the following figures, those omitted and... Figure 1 Repeated explanation.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the housing 10 may provide an upwardly opening space (hereinafter referred to as an insertion space) for inserting the aerosol generating article 2. The insertion space may be recessed into the interior of the housing 10 to a predetermined depth to allow at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 to be inserted. 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.

[0132] Unlike the case shown in the attached figures, the cartridge 19 may also provide an insertion space for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2. In this case, the insertion space may be recessed into the interior of the cartridge 19 to a predetermined depth, allowing at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 to be inserted. The lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the interior of the cartridge 19, while the upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 may protrude outward from the cartridge 19. Furthermore, in this case, the aerosol generating device 1 may not include the heater 183.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the depth of the insertion space can be greater than the length of the region of the aerosol generating article 2 containing the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The user can hold the exposed upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 in their mouth and inhale air.

[0134] According to one embodiment, heater 183 can heat aerosol generating article 2. Heater 183 can extend relatively long upwards around the periphery of the space into which aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). As an example, heater 183 can be a tubular shape (e.g., cylindrical) with a hollow interior. Heater 183 can also include a shape with a hollow interior that encloses the hollow space. In this case, heater 183 can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be referred to as a film heater. Heater 183 can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. Heater 183 can heat the outside of the hollow aerosol generating article 2 inserted therein. In this disclosure, heater 183 can be referred to as an external heating type heater that heats the outside of the aerosol generating article 2. Additionally, an insulating material can also be arranged on the outside of heater 183. This reduces the heat dissipated from heater 183 in a radially outward direction and applied to the outside of housing 10.

[0135] According to one embodiment, heater 183 may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0136] For example, a resistance heater may include a resistive material and can be heated as an electric current flows through it. In this case, the resistance heater may be electrically connected to power source 11 and can be heated directly by receiving current from power source 11.

[0137] For example, for an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include an induction coil (not shown) surrounding at least a portion of the heater 183 (e.g., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the length of the heater 183). In this case, to improve the efficiency of induction heating, a magnetic flux concentrator or the like may also be included outside the induction coil (not shown). 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 (not shown).

[0138] According to one embodiment, heater 183 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 and second part of an aerosol generating rod. Furthermore, when heater 183 is an induction heater, the 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 heaters can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first and second part of a heater 183. In addition, heaters and / or induction coils may include three or more.

[0139] Unlike the case shown in the attached diagram, the aerosol generating device 1 may also exclude the heater 183. The aerosol generating article 2 may be directly or indirectly heated by the cartridge heater 24, or substantially unheated. Indirect heating means that the aerosol generating article 2 receives heat contained within the aerosol as it passes through the cartridge heater 24. In this case, the aerosol generating device 1 may be referred to as a non-heating (or, indirectly heated) aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating rod of the aerosol generating article 2 may contain additives such as alkaline substances. Based on this alkaline substance, the nicotine contained in the aerosol generating rod may have an alkaline pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). This alkaline nicotine can flow into the user's mouth along with the aerosol flowing from the cartridge 19 into the aerosol generating article 2, as described later.

[0140] Unlike the case shown in the attached figures, heater 183 may also include an internally heated type heater. For example, an internally heated type heater may include various heating elements such as rod-type, tubular-type, plate-type, or needle-type heating elements. The internally heated type heater can be inserted through the lower part of the aerosol generating article 2 and can be configured to heat the inner side of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 19 can be detachably attached to the housing 10. For example, a space can be formed on one side of the housing 10, and at least a portion of the cartridge 19 can be inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 10, so that the cartridge 19 can be installed in the housing 10. Alternatively, the cartridge 19 can be integrally formed with the housing 10.

[0142] According to one embodiment, an airflow channel for air circulation can be provided in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the cartridge 19. For example, the housing 10 may include a structure that allows air to flow from the outside into the interior of the housing 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. The inflowing air can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the insertion space through the airflow channel CN, and can flow into the user's mouth. The airflow channel CN ​​may also include various structures for reducing residual droplets or promoting airflow.

[0143] exist Figure 4 Although the illustration shows the cartridge 19 positioned to the side of the aerosol generating article 2 and the airflow channel CN ​​forming from the side surface of the aerosol generating article 2 toward the lower end (i.e., the upstream side) of the aerosol generating article 2, the positions of the cartridge 19 and the airflow channel CN ​​are not limited to this. For example, the cartridge 19 may be positioned adjacent to the lower end (i.e., the upstream side) of the aerosol generating article 2, and in this case, the airflow channel CN ​​may be formed substantially in a straight line to connect the cartridge 19 to the lower end (i.e., the upstream side) of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 19 may include a storage section C0 containing aerosol-generating material, a cartridge heater 24, and / or a liquid delivery member impregnated with (containing) aerosol-generating material. The liquid delivery member 25 is capable of being impregnated with aerosol-generating material supplied from the storage section C0. For example, the liquid delivery member may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 can heat the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19. For example, the cartridge heater 24 may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0146] As an example, a resistance heater may include a resistive material and can be heated as an electric current flows through it. As another example, for an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include an induction coil (not shown) around the periphery of the induction heater. The induction heater may include an induction heating element and can generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (not shown). The cartridge heater 24 can be formed in a coil configuration surrounding (or winding around) the liquid delivery member and / or in contact with one side of the liquid delivery member (e.g., a patterned shape).

[0147] Unlike the case shown in the attached figures, the cartridge heater 24 may also be included in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the cartridge heater 24 may be included inside the housing 10. In this case, the cartridge 19 can be separated from the cartridge heater 24 by removing the cartridge 19.

[0148] According to one embodiment, an aerosol can be generated based on the heating of the cartridge heater 24. For example, as the aerosol generating material impregnated in the liquid delivery member is heated by the cartridge heater 24, vapor can be generated from the aerosol generating material, and as the generated vapor mixes with external air flowing into the cartridge 19, an aerosol can be generated. The aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 flows into the aerosol generating article 2 through the airflow channel CN. As the aerosol passes through the aerosol generating article 2, tobacco or flavoring substances can be added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with added tobacco or flavoring substances can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0149] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the method of inserting a detection aerosol generating article into the interior of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0150] Reference Figure 5 Reference numeral 501 indicates that the housing 10 of the aerosol generating device can form an integral appearance and accommodate various components of the aerosol generating device. The housing 10 may include: a cavity housing 110, providing space for accommodating the aerosol generating article (hereinafter referred to as "cigarette") 2.

[0151] The cavity housing 110 may have a cylindrical or tubular structure, forming an empty space (cavity 115) of a predetermined depth inside the housing 10 to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 2. The cavity housing 110 may be made of an insulator. The insulator may be formed of a flexible and heat-resistant material. The insulating material may include, but is not limited to, polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and may also include other materials with elasticity, heat resistance, and electrical insulation.

[0152] When the aerosol generating article 2 is a conventionally sized article, its diameter can be, for example, about 6 to 8 mm, preferably about 7.2 mm. Conversely, when the aerosol generating article 2 is an elongated article, its diameter can be smaller, for example, 3 to 5 mm. The diameter of the cavity housing 110 can be slightly larger than the diameter of the aerosol generating article 2 to support it. That is, when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the cavity 115, the distance between the cavity housing 110 and the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2 can be within about 1 mm. However, the numerical ranges described are merely examples, and those skilled in the art will understand that the corresponding numerical ranges can be adjusted in various ways according to the embodiments.

[0153] exist Figure 2 In one embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, the cavity housing 110 may be a thermally conductive structure formed, respectively, with the heater 182 (e.g., an internal heater) to accommodate and surround the outer wall of the inserted aerosol generating article 2. However, unlike this, in... Figure 3 or Figure 4 In an embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, the heater 183 (e.g., an external heater) is formed to surround a portion of the length of the aerosol generating article 2 (i.e., the heating region). In this case, the cavity housing 110 may be an outer wall structure formed outside the heater 183 and supporting the aerosol generating article 2 together with the heater 183. That is, the cavity housing 110 may differ structurally depending on the type of heater (e.g., an internal heater or an external heater), but can be considered the same structure in providing a cavity 115 for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2. The embodiments described below are applicable to aerosol generating apparatuses of the internal or external heater type, even without further explanation.

[0154] like Figure 1 The aerosol generating device can use an insertion sensing sensor 130 located near or on the cavity housing 110 to detect whether the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted or removed.

[0155] Figure 5 Reference numerals 511 and 512 show in more detail the area of ​​reference numeral 501 associated with the cavity housing 110.

[0156] Referring to reference numeral 511, the aerosol generating article 2 is shown in a state where it has not yet been inserted into the cavity 115 of the cavity housing 110. At this time, the insertion sensing sensor 130 may be in a state where no signal change has been sensed.

[0157] Subsequently, as indicated by reference numeral 512, when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the cavity 115 along its length in one direction (e.g., the -z direction), the insertion sensing sensor 130 can detect the change in signal. For example, when the insertion sensing sensor 130 is disposed on the side of the cavity 115, it can sense the pressure applied in one direction (x direction) due to the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2. Alternatively, when the insertion sensing sensor 130 is disposed on the bottom surface (substrate) of the cavity 115, it can sense the pressure applied in one direction (z direction) due to the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0158] However, the insertion sensing sensor 130 can be configured simultaneously on both the side and bottom surfaces (substrate) of the cavity 115, or it can be configured at any one location on either the side or bottom surface (substrate) of the cavity 115. That is, although Figure 5 The sensor 130 is shown inserted in three areas, but this is only an example for illustrative purposes. In reality, the sensor 130 can be inserted in more than one area.

[0159] The insertion sensing sensor 130 can sense the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 2 at its configured location based on the contact pressure generated by the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 2. Conversely, the insertion sensing sensor 130 can also sense the removal of the aerosol-generating article 2 by detecting the release of contact with the aerosol-generating article 2. For this purpose, the insertion sensing sensor 130 can be implemented as a type of piezoelectric sensor capable of sensing the pressure (pressure value) applied due to external physical force. The insertion sensing sensor 130 can refer to hardware that includes a pressure piezoelectric sensor (or piezoelectric pressure sensing module) that generates an electrical signal corresponding to the pressure when pressure is generated and senses the pressure intensity.

[0160] More specifically, at least a portion of the insertion sensing sensor 130 may be disposed in a protruding state in the empty space of the cavity 115. When the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 results in a force being applied to the insertion sensing sensor 130 from the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2, the insertion sensing sensor 130 may operate in a piezoelectric manner, converting the intensity of the pressure acting on the protruding portion of the insertion sensing sensor 130 into an electrical signal. When the insertion sensing sensor 130 senses pressure, the control unit ( Figure 1 12) can determine whether or not the aerosol-generating item 2 is inserted.

[0161] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating different configurations of an insertion sensing sensor within the housing of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0162] Reference Figure 6 The cavity shell 110 inside the shell 10 can be arbitrarily divided into several regions along the length direction (z direction) of the cavity 115 for naming purposes.

[0163] Specifically, the side closest to the opening of the cavity housing 110 is designated as the proximal region, which may be referred to as region A, and the side furthest from the opening of the cavity housing 110 is designated as the distal region, which may be referred to as region C. Furthermore, the area between region A and region C, which is near the center of the cavity housing 110, may be referred to as region B. Additionally, when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted, the base region of the bottom surface of the cavity housing 110, which is closest to and in contact with the end of the aerosol generating article 2, may be referred to as region D. However, as described above, the named regions are only for the convenience of illustrating the embodiment and are divided according to any distance from the opening of the cavity housing 110, and do not necessarily mean that these regions are of equal length.

[0164] According to the above Figure 2 In one embodiment, in the aerosol generating apparatus 1, the heater 182 is an internal heater inserted into the aerosol generating article 2. In this case, the insertion sensing sensor can be configured in region A, region B, or region C of the cavity housing 110, which is not directly heated because the heater 182 is not configured there. However, although region D of the cavity housing 110 is a relatively high-temperature region as it is in contact with one end of the heater 182, the insertion sensing sensor can also be configured there.

[0165] According to the above Figure 3 and Figure 4In the embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, the heater 183 is an external heater that heats the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2. When the heater 183 is disposed at a constant distance from the substrate on the wall of the cavity housing 110, the insertion sensing sensor can be disposed in a region on the wall of the cavity housing 110 that does not overlap with the heater 183 (e.g., region A or region C). That is, assuming that the region where the heater 183 is disposed is region B, the insertion sensing sensor can be disposed in region A or region C where the heater 183 is not disposed. The lengths of regions A, B, and C need not be the same, based on the length direction (z-direction) of the cavity housing 110. Furthermore, when the heater 183 is disposed on the wall of the cavity housing 110 at a height from the substrate to regions B and C, the insertion sensing sensor can be disposed in region A on the wall of the cavity housing 110 that does not overlap with the heater 183. Additionally, the insertion sensing sensor can also be disposed in region D of the cavity housing 110.

[0166] That is, with the cavity housing 110 as a reference, in order to avoid being directly affected by the heating of heaters 182 and 183, the insertion sensing sensor is preferably configured in a position that does not overlap with heaters 182 and 183. In addition, more than one insertion sensing sensor can be configured in each area.

[0167] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating how an insertion sensing sensor, according to one embodiment, uses a piezoelectric method to sense the insertion of an aerosol-generated article from the side.

[0168] Reference Figure 7 Reference numeral 701 indicates that the insertion sensing sensor 131 can be disposed on the side of the cavity housing 110. The insertion sensing sensor 131 may include: a contact module 1311, which deforms or displaces due to pressure generated when in contact with an external object; and a piezoelectric module 1312, which generates an electrical signal based on the pressure change corresponding to the deformation or displacement of the contact module 1311. The piezoelectric module 1312 converts the pressure intensity applied to the piezoelectric module 1312 as the contact module 1311 is pressed in the x-direction into an electrical signal. That is, the insertion sensing sensor 131 can perform piezoelectric pressure sensing. Here, although the insertion sensing sensor 131 is described in this embodiment as including the contact module 1311 and the piezoelectric module 1312, the terms "contact module 1311" and "piezoelectric module 1312" are merely functional distinctions for ease of explanation; the insertion sensing sensor 131 can also be implemented as a single integrated piezoelectric sensing module.

[0169] When there is no object in the cavity 115, the contact module 1311, which is part of the insertion sensing sensor 131, can remain protruding towards the cavity 115, and the piezoelectric module 1312 may not sense any pressure.

[0170] in addition, Figure 7 The position of the inserted sensing sensor 131 can be Figure 6 At least one of the regions A, B, and C mentioned above. That is, according to the embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus, the position of the insertion sensing sensor 131 can be appropriately selected based on the cavity housing 110, and more than one insertion sensing sensor 131 can be configured. When multiple insertion sensing sensors 131 are configured, they do not necessarily have to be configured in their respective regions; multiple insertion sensing sensors 131 can also be configured in one region.

[0171] Reference Figure 7 Reference numeral 702 shows a state in which an aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the cavity 115 of the cavity housing 110. When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted, the cavity 115 in the cavity housing 110 is filled with the volume of the aerosol generating article 2. Therefore, the insertion sensing sensor 131, which originally protrudes into the cavity 115, will be subjected to pressure.

[0172] Specifically, the contact module 1311 of the insertion sensing sensor 131 is subjected to pressure from the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2 along the x-direction. Therefore, the piezoelectric module 1312 of the insertion sensing sensor 131 can generate an electrical signal based on the pressure change corresponding to the deformation or displacement of the contact module 1311, thereby measuring the pressure intensity.

[0173] For example, it can be assumed that the initial position of one end of the contact module 1311 is d1 before the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted. Then, when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted, the position of one end of the contact module 1311 can change to d2. That is, due to the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2, the contact module 1311 can undergo a displacement of Δd. The piezoelectric module 1312 can perform piezoelectric pressure sensing of the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 by converting the pressure intensity corresponding to the displacement of the contact module 1311 by Δd into an electrical signal.

[0174] Inserting the sensing sensor 131 is equivalent to the above. Figure 1 The insertion sensing sensor 13 is a component of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. Specifically, the insertion sensing sensor 131 is a component electrically connected to the control unit 12. The pressure change sensed by the insertion sensing sensor 131 is transmitted to the control unit 12. When the control unit 12 determines that the pressure change sensed by the insertion sensing sensor 131 meets a predetermined condition, it can determine that the aerosol generating article 2 has been inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0175] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol generating article 2 has been inserted by comparing the pressure intensity sensed by the insertion sensing sensor 131 with a preset reference pressure. When the pressure intensity sensed by the insertion sensing sensor 131 exceeds the reference pressure, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article 2 has been inserted. Conversely, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article 2 has not been inserted.

[0176] Furthermore, after confirming that the aerosol generating article 2 has been inserted, the insertion sensing sensor 131 can sense that the pressure intensity has fallen below the reference pressure again. In this case, the control unit 12 can determine that the inserted aerosol generating article 2 has been removed from the aerosol generating device 1. The removal of the aerosol generating article 2 can mean either that the aerosol generating article 2 has been completely removed from the aerosol generating device 1 according to the user's intention, or it can mean that the aerosol generating article 2 has slightly detached, regardless of the user's intention.

[0177] In this embodiment, although it is explained that the control unit 12 determines whether insertion has occurred by comparing the sensed pressure with the reference pressure, in addition, various other methods can be used to determine whether insertion has occurred based on the sensed pressure. These methods can also be understood to fall within the scope of the insertion sensing method of the control unit 12 in this embodiment.

[0178] Figure 8 These are perspective and plan views illustrating a cavity housing configured with an insertion sensing sensor according to an embodiment.

[0179] Reference Figure 8 In the perspective view 801, the inserted sensing sensor 132 can be arranged in a ring shape on a portion of the side surface of the cavity housing 110. That is, Figure 7 The cross-section of the insertion sensing sensor 131 described herein can represent the cross-section of the annular insertion sensing sensor 132. A portion of the annular insertion sensing sensor 132 (i.e., the contact module portion) protrudes into the cavity 115, thereby allowing it to come into contact with the inserted aerosol generating article 2, whereby the insertion sensing sensor 132 can sense pressure.

[0180] Figure 8 Plan view 802 is a plan view viewed from top to bottom (S1 direction). An annular insertion sensing sensor 132 (e.g., a contact module portion) protrudes a portion of itself into the cavity 115 in a manner having a diameter smaller than that of the cavity housing 110. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the cavity 115, the annular insertion sensing sensor 132 can sense the pressure applied to the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2 in a radial direction (i.e., the x-direction).

[0181] in addition, Figure 8Although only one ring sensor is shown, it is not limited to this. According to the embodiment, two or more ring sensors can also be configured.

[0182] Figure 9 These are perspective and plan views illustrating a cavity housing configured with an insertion sensing sensor according to another embodiment.

[0183] Reference Figure 9 In perspective view 901, the insertion sensing sensor 133 can be configured in a relative manner at a portion of the side of the cavity housing 110. That is, the piezoelectric pressure sensing module included within the insertion sensing sensor 133 can be configured at an appropriate distance apart. Figure 7 The cross-section of the insertion sensing sensor 131 described herein can represent the cross-section of the relatively configured insertion sensing sensor 133. A portion of the insertion sensing sensor 133 (i.e., the contact module portion) protrudes into the cavity 115, thereby enabling it to come into contact with the inserted aerosol generating article 2, whereby the insertion sensing sensor 132 can sense pressure.

[0184] Figure 9 Plan view 902 is a plan view viewed from above (S2 direction). Two insertion sensing sensors 133 can be configured in a relative manner, with a portion of them protruding into the cavity 115. When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the cavity 115, the insertion sensing sensor 132 can sense the pressure applied by the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2 in a radial direction (i.e., the x direction).

[0185] However, Figure 9 The illustration shows two sensors, but it is not limited to this. According to the embodiment, only one sensor or more than three sensors may be configured. In addition, when multiple sensors are configured, they do not necessarily have to be configured in relative positions. Multiple sensors can be configured on the side of the cavity housing 110 in a vertical or horizontally adjacent manner.

[0186] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a cross-section of a contact module disposed in an insertion sensing sensor according to an embodiment.

[0187] Reference Figure 10 The parts of the insertion sensing sensor that directly contact the aerosol generating article 2 in its insertion direction (-z direction) are contact modules 1001, 1002, and 1003. To facilitate the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2, the parts of contact modules 1001, 1002, and 1003 that first contact the end of the aerosol generating article 2 during insertion are preferably formed with a curved surface or a smooth, inclined shape. Conversely, if formed with a shape perpendicular to the length direction (e.g., a stop), it may cause difficulty in inserting the aerosol generating article 2.

[0188] Referring to the first example 1011, the cross-section of the protruding contact module 1001 in the insertion sensing sensor is formed in a curved shape, so that the aerosol generating article 2 can apply pressure to the contact module 1001 in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (+x direction) when it slides in.

[0189] Similarly, referring to the second example 1012, the cross-section of the protruding contact module 1002 in the inserted sensing sensor is also formed in a curved shape, so that the aerosol generating article 2 can apply pressure to the contact module 1002 when it slides in.

[0190] Referring to the third example 1013, the cross-section of the protruding contact module 1003 in the insertion sensing sensor is formed in a shape that is inclined in the downward direction (-z direction). As a result, the aerosol generating article 2 can apply pressure to the contact module 1003 in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (+x direction) when it slides in.

[0191] Although Figure 10 Various embodiments of the cross section of the insertion sensing sensor are described, but are not limited thereto. The insertion sensing sensor can adopt any cross section shape that facilitates the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 and at the same time facilitates the measurement of the pressure applied due to the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0192] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating how an insertion sensing sensor, according to one embodiment, uses piezoelectricity to sense the insertion of an aerosol-generated article from the bottom surface (substrate).

[0193] Reference Figure 11 Reference numeral 1101 indicates that the insertion sensing sensor 134 can be configured on the bottom surface (substrate) 112 of the cavity housing 110, and the insertion sensing sensor 134 can be formed in a shape (e.g., rod-shaped) protruding into the cavity 115.

[0194] The bottom surface 112 is a base structure that connects to the end of the aerosol generating article 2 to prevent further insertion of the aerosol generating article 2. The bottom surface 112 is integrally formed with the side structure of the cavity housing 110, or it can be made as a separate structure from the side structure and combined with each other. The insertion sensing sensor 134 can be configured adjacent to the bottom surface 112. An airflow channel (gap) 117 for airflow around the insertion sensing sensor 134 can be provided on the bottom surface 112. When a user inhales through the aerosol generating article 2, air flowing into the aerosol generating device from the outside can flow into the aerosol generating article 2 through the airflow channel 117 provided around the insertion sensing sensor 134 on the bottom surface 112.

[0195] The insertion sensing sensor 134 may include: a contact module 1341 that deforms or displaces when pressure is applied by an object in a direction (-z direction); and a piezoelectric module 1342 that generates an electrical signal based on the pressure change corresponding to the deformation or displacement of the contact module 1341. That is, the piezoelectric module 1342 can convert the pressure intensity applied to the piezoelectric module 1312 due to the contact module 1341 being pressed in the -z direction into an electrical signal. However, as described above, the insertion sensing sensor 134 may also be implemented as a single integrated piezoelectric sensing module instead of being divided into a contact module 1341 and a piezoelectric module 1342.

[0196] As shown by reference numeral 1101 in the figure, when there is no object in the cavity 115, the contact module 1341, which is part of the insertion sensing sensor 134, can remain protruding towards the cavity 115, and the piezoelectric module 1342 may not sense any pressure.

[0197] Reference Figure 11 Reference numeral 1102 illustrates a state in which an aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted into a cavity 115 of the cavity housing 110. An insertion sensing sensor 134, protruding toward the cavity 115, can be subjected to contact pressure applied by the end of the aerosol-generating article 2. Consequently, the position of one end of the contact module 1341 can change from d3 to d4. Due to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 2, the contact module 1341 can undergo a displacement of Δd. The piezoelectric module 1342 can perform piezoelectric pressure sensing of the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 2 by converting the pressure intensity corresponding to the displacement Δd of the contact module 1341 into an electrical signal.

[0198] Figure 11 The position of the inserted sensing sensor 134 can be Figure 6 The D region described in [the document]. For example, in [the context of the document]. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In an embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 with heater 183, the insertion sensing sensor 134 can be configured in region D. However, even in Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the embodiments, it is not necessary to configure it in region D; it can also be configured in other regions (any region in region A or region C).

[0199] Although Figure 11 The illustration shows only one insertion sensing sensor 134, but according to an embodiment, more than two sensors can be configured on the bottom surface 112.

[0200] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the insertion of an article into an aerosol-generated object using a piezoelectric method, according to another embodiment of the insertion sensing sensor.

[0201] Reference Figure 12 The reference numerals 1201 and 1202 in the attached drawings are consistent with... Figure 11 In contrast, instead of the bottom surface 112, a separate spacer structure (or stop structure) 113 is attached to the lower end of the cavity housing 110. That is, the spacer structure (or stop structure) 113 can be a base structure. The spacer structure 113 is a base structure used to prevent further insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 and is connected to the end of the aerosol generating article 2. An insertion sensing sensor 135 can be configured adjacent to the spacer structure 113. The insertion sensing sensor 135 penetrates the empty space (pore) on the spacer structure 113, and its length can be longer than the height of the spacer structure 113 to protrude into the cavity 115.

[0202] The insertion sensing sensor 135 can be embedded in the flange 119. According to an embodiment, external air flowing between the spacer structure 113 and the flange 119 can be supplied to the aerosol generating article 2 through an airflow channel (pore) 117 formed on the spacer structure 113. That is, an airflow channel 117 can be formed around the insertion sensing sensor 135 provided to the empty space of the spacer structure 113.

[0203] Figure 12 Implementation examples and Figure 11 Compared to the previous embodiment, the difference lies in the lower end structure of the cavity housing 110, while the piezoelectric pressure sensing method is the same.

[0204] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating the insertion of an aerosol-generated article using a piezoelectric method from the bottom surface by an insertion sensing sensor according to yet another embodiment.

[0205] Reference Figure 13 The reference numerals 1301 and 1302 in the attached drawings are consistent with... Figure 11 and Figure 12 In contrast, the insertion sensing sensor 136 can be implemented as a planar piezoelectric force sensor.

[0206] The insertion sensing sensor 136 can be placed in close contact with the bottom surface (base) 114 of the cavity housing 110. When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted and approaches the bottom surface 114, the end of the aerosol generating article 2 can apply a pressing force to the planar type piezoelectric pressure sensor (insertion sensing sensor 136). The planar type piezoelectric pressure sensor (insertion sensing sensor 136) can sense the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 by performing piezoelectric sensing, which converts the pressure intensity applied by the aerosol generating article 2 in one direction (-z direction) into an electrical signal.

[0207] Additionally, an airflow channel (pore) 117 that allows external air to flow into the aerosol generating article 2 can be provided on the bottom surface 112.

[0208] Figure 14 It is used for explanation Figure 13 Plan view of different examples of insertion sensing sensors in a cavity housing.

[0209] Reference Figure 14 Reference numeral 1401 indicates that an insertion sensing sensor 137 is disposed on the bottom surface (base) 114 of the cavity housing 110. The insertion sensing sensor 137 can be implemented as a piezoelectric pressure sensor (piezoelectric pressure sensing module) of the planar type formed in a circle. That is, the insertion sensing sensor 137 can be configured in a shape that surrounds the periphery of the opening (orifice) for the airflow channel formed on the bottom surface 114.

[0210] The insertion sensing sensor 137 can sense the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 2 by performing piezoelectric sensing, which converts the pressure applied to the end of the aerosol-generating article 2 in one direction (-z direction) into an electrical signal.

[0211] Reference Figure 14 Reference numeral 1402, unlike reference numeral 1401, indicates that the insertion sensing sensor 138 can be a planar piezoelectric pressure sensor made of small modular units. For example, reference numeral 1402 shows an insertion sensing sensor 138 with two modules configured, but it is not limited to this, and more than one insertion sensing sensor 138 can be configured. In addition, the insertion sensing sensor 138 is preferably configured at a position on the bottom surface 114 where it can sense the contact pressure of the aerosol generating article 2, so there are various options for the position of the insertion sensing sensor 138 on the bottom surface 114.

[0212] In the embodiments of the above figures, various embodiments of sensing the insertion of aerosol-generated articles using an insertion sensing sensor employing a piezoelectric pressure sensing method are described.

[0213] Alternatively, multiple piezoelectric pressure sensing modules can be configured at different locations. In this case, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article 2 has been inserted when it determines that two or more of the multiple piezoelectric pressure sensing modules have sensed a pressure intensity of a predetermined magnitude or higher. Furthermore, even when multiple piezoelectric pressure sensing modules are configured, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article 2 has been inserted when only one module senses pressure. That is, the insertion sensing method is not limited to any one embodiment.

[0214] Furthermore, the control unit 12 of the aerosol generating device 1 can associate the function of sensing the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 with other functions, thereby controlling the aerosol generating device 1 to provide more extended operation of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0215] For example, when the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 is detected, the control unit 12 can control the activation of the heater heating function to cause the inserted aerosol generating article 2 to generate aerosols. Additionally, when the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 is detected, the control unit 12 can control the activation of additional sensing functions to identify the type (fragrance, material, humidity, etc.) of the inserted aerosol generating article 2. Furthermore, when the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 is detected, the control unit 12 can control the activation of various user interface (UI) functions to indicate that the aerosol generating article 2 has been inserted. The process of activating the heater heating by detecting the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 will be described in detail below.

[0216] Figure 15 This is a flowchart relating to a method for controlling the heating of a heater by sensing the insertion of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment.

[0217] Reference Figure 15 The method of controlling the heater's heating by sensing the insertion is a step processed sequentially in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 described in the above figures. Therefore, even if the following content is omitted, the content described in the above figures is also applicable. Figure 15 Control methods.

[0218] In step 1501, the insertion sensing sensor 130, installed in the sensor section 13 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, uses a piezoelectric pressure sensor to monitor pressure changes and sense the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 into the aerosol generating apparatus 1. By utilizing the insertion sensing of the piezoelectric pressure sensor, insertion can be achieved... Figures 5 to 14 Execute as described in the instructions.

[0219] In step 1502, the control unit 12 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 determines whether the piezoelectric pressure sensor of the insertion sensing sensor 130 has sensed a pressure change. When a pressure change is sensed, the control unit 12 executes step 1503. However, when no pressure change is sensed, the control unit 12 controls the insertion sensing sensor 130 to maintain monitoring.

[0220] In step 1503, when the piezoelectric pressure sensor of the insertion sensing sensor 130 senses a pressure change, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the aerosol generating article is inserted based on the electrical signal corresponding to the sensed pressure change.

[0221] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 based on whether the sensed pressure change meets predetermined conditions. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted by comparing the sensed pressure intensity with a preset reference pressure. When the sensed pressure intensity exceeds the reference pressure, the control unit 12 executes step 1504. Otherwise, the control unit 12 controls the insertion sensing sensor 130 to maintain monitoring.

[0222] In step 1504, the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted based on the result that the sensed pressure intensity determined in step 1503 exceeds the reference pressure.

[0223] In step 1505, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted, the control unit 12 causes the heaters 18 and 24 to perform heating so that the aerosol generating article 2 generates aerosol.

[0224] That is, according to this embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 monitors whether the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1. Then, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article 2 has been inserted, heating of the aerosol generating article 2 can be started automatically. Thus, the user does not need to perform cumbersome operations and can start smoking simply by inserting the article, thereby providing convenience to the user.

[0225] The embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments, are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The constituent elements or functions of the embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments, can be used together or combined with each other.

[0226] For example, this means that component A illustrated in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with component B illustrated in other embodiments and / or drawings. That is, this means that even if the combination between components is not directly described, they can be combined except where it is stated that combination is impossible.

[0227] The detailed description above should be considered exemplary in all respects and not construed as restrictive. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: A cavity housing, providing a cavity for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article. An insertion sensing sensor is inserted, at least a portion of which protrudes into the cavity. When the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity housing, the insertion sensing sensor senses, in a piezoelectric force manner, the pressure applied by the protruding portion due to contact with the aerosol-generating article. The control unit determines whether the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device based on the intensity of the sensed pressure.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insertion sensing sensor includes: At least one piezoelectric pressure sensing module is configured to be adjacent to at least one of the side and bottom surfaces of the cavity housing.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insertion sensing sensor includes: Multiple piezoelectric pressure sensing modules are configured at different locations. When it is determined that two or more of the plurality of piezoelectric pressure sensing modules sense a pressure intensity of a predetermined magnitude or greater, the control unit determines that the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insertion sensing sensor is disposed on the side of the cavity housing and senses the pressure applied in a radial direction perpendicular to the insertion direction due to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The insertion sensing sensor includes: A ring-shaped piezoelectric force sensing module surrounds the side of the cavity housing; The diameter of the annular piezoelectric pressure sensing module is smaller than the diameter of the cavity housing, so that at least a portion of the annular piezoelectric pressure sensing module protrudes into the cavity.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The insertion sensing sensor includes: Two or more piezoelectric pressure sensing modules are arranged in a relative manner on the side of the cavity housing.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insertion sensing sensor includes: A rod-shaped piezoelectric force sensing module is configured to be adjacent to the bottom surface of the cavity housing or to a spacer structure attached to the cavity housing, and at least a portion of the rod-shaped piezoelectric force sensing module protrudes into the cavity housing. The rod-shaped piezoelectric pressure sensing module senses the pressure applied along the insertion direction due to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The bottom surface or the spacer structure has openings around the rod-shaped piezoelectric force sensing module to provide an airflow channel that allows external air to flow into the aerosol generating article.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insertion sensing sensor includes: A planar piezoelectric force sensing module is disposed on the bottom surface of the cavity housing or attached to a spacer structure of the cavity housing; The planar type piezoelectric pressure sensing module senses the pressure applied along the insertion direction due to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Based on the insertion direction of the aerosol-generating article, the cavity shell is divided into a proximal region near the opening of the cavity shell, a distal region away from the opening of the cavity shell, and an intermediate region located between the proximal region and the distal region. Depending on the type of heater provided in the aerosol generating device, the insertion sensing sensor is configured in at least one of the proximal region, the distal region, and the intermediate region.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The insertion sensing sensor is disposed in at least one region of the cavity housing that is not directly heated by the heater, in the base region, the proximal region, the distal region, and the intermediate region.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, When it is determined that the aerosol generating article has been inserted, the control unit controls the heater to start heating the aerosol generating article.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit, The intensity of the pressure sensed by the insertion sensing sensor is compared with a reference pressure. When it is determined that the intensity of the sensed pressure exceeds the reference pressure, it is determined that the aerosol generating article has been inserted.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, When it is determined that the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity housing, the control unit controls the heater to start heating the aerosol generating article.

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