Heater control method and aerosol-generating device for performing same

Abstract

According to an embodiment, there is provided a heater control method of an aerosol-generating device, comprising the steps of: applying a first signal having a first frequency to a coil of a heater to generate an alternating magnetic field; determining a first value of an electrical characteristic of the induction heating body represented based on the first signal; determining a first heating frequency based on the first value; and applying a first heating signal having a first heating frequency to a coil of the heater to perform power PID (Proportional-Integrated-Differential) control on the basis of the first power curve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following embodiments relate to a technique for controlling an aerosol generating apparatus, and more specifically, to a technique for controlling a heater in an aerosol generating apparatus for heating an induction heating element. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the demand for e-cigarette devices has been gradually increasing. Along with this increasing demand, the related functions of e-cigarette devices have also been continuously developed. In particular, functions based on the types and characteristics of e-cigarette devices are constantly evolving.

[0003] Typically, to heat cigarettes using induction heating, electronic cigarette devices use coils to generate an alternating magnetic field, inducing eddy currents in the induction heating element near the cigarette. These eddy currents cause the induction heating element to heat up. Electronic cigarette devices that heat cigarettes can preheat the induction heating element to the target temperature before the user smokes. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem the invention aims to solve One embodiment provides an aerosol generation device for preheating an induction heating element by using electricity controlled by an electric power curve.

[0005] One embodiment provides an aerosol generating apparatus for determining the signal frequency applied to a coil of a heater to heat the induction heating element based on its electrical characteristics.

[0006] However, the problem to be solved by this invention is not limited to the issues mentioned above, and other technical issues may also exist.

[0007] Technical means to solve the problem According to one embodiment, a heater control method for an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising the following steps: applying a first signal having a first frequency to a coil of a heater to generate an alternating magnetic field; determining a first value of the electrical characteristics of an inductively heated element based on the first signal; determining a first heating frequency based on the first value; and applying a first heating signal having the first heating frequency to the coil of the heater to perform proportional-integral-differential (PID) control based on a first power curve.

[0008] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising: an induction coil that generates an alternating magnetic field; and a control unit that controls the aerosol generating apparatus, the control unit being configured to: apply a first signal having a first frequency to a coil of a heater to generate the alternating magnetic field; determine a first value of an electrical characteristic of an induction heating element exhibited based on the first signal; determine a first heating frequency based on the first value; and apply a first heating signal having the first heating frequency to the coil of the heater to perform proportional-integral-differential (PID) control based on a first power curve.

[0009] Invention Effects According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus can be provided, which preheats the induction heating element to a target temperature by controlling the power of heating the induction heating element based on an electric power curve in a portion of the preheating zone of the induction heating element.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus may be provided, which can determine the frequency of a signal applied to a heater coil for heating the induction heating element based on the magnitude of the eddy current in the induction heating element as exhibited by a signal at a specific frequency. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This illustrates an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This illustrates an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 This illustrates an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a heater control method according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method for determining whether to perform the action of determining the heating frequency according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for determining the electrical characteristics of an induction heating element according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a method for determining heating frequency based on sensor temperature according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of a method for determining a heating frequency according to an embodiment so that the electrical characteristics of an induction heating element correspond to a reference value.

[0020] Figure 10 It is based on an embodiment of the trajectory of eddy currents in an inductively heated body exhibited by a signal frequency.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a method for preheating an induction heating element according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, the same or similar constituent elements will be assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of them will be omitted. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related constituent elements in the description of the drawings.

[0023] 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).

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] When it is mentioned that a constituent element is "connected" or "combined" with another constituent element, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or directly combined with the other constituent element, but there may also be other constituent elements in between. Conversely, when it is mentioned that a constituent element is "directly connected" or "directly combined" with another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements in between.

[0027] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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).

[0038] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] According to one embodiment, a cover sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of a cover. For example, the cover 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 cover 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 cover is installed in or removed from the housing, the cover 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 cover based on the signal corresponding to the installation or removal.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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).

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol-generated article 2.

[0101] Reference Figure 2 Heater 182 can be an internal heating type heater.

[0102] 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.

[0103] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the induction heating element is arranged (or contained) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the medium section), and can be implemented to heat the induction heating element contained inside the aerosol generating article 2 based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181.

[0108] Reference Figure 3 Heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] and Figure 2 or Figure 3 The situation shown is different, Figure 2 heater 182 and Figure 3 The heater 183 can be included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1. In this case, the heater 182 can heat the inside of the aerosol generating article 2, and the heater 183 can heat the outside of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0113] 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).

[0114] Figure 4 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a temperature sensor 131. The temperature sensor 131 can be arranged within the main body of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 to measure temperature. For example, as shown, the temperature sensor 131 can be arranged below the heater 182, and below any rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating element included in the heater 182. For example, the control unit 12 can obtain information about the increase or decrease in the internal temperature of the main body and the temperature of the heater 182 based on the external environment or the operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 through the temperature sensor 131.

[0116] For example, temperature sensor 131 can be a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) temperature sensor. Control unit 12 can determine the temperature model of heater 182 based on the temperature sensed by temperature sensor 131.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the heater 182 may be an induction heating heater, and the heater 182 (e.g., an induction heating element) (or a heating module including an induction heating element) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing 10. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be arranged to measure the temperature around the heater 182. Even if the heater 182 is detached from the housing 10, the temperature sensor 131 may remain attached to the housing 10.

[0118] and Figure 4 In contrast to the scenario shown, heater 182 can be an externally heated type heater capable of heating the outside of the hollow aerosol generating article 2, and heater 182 can be arranged to be detachable from housing 10. For example, temperature sensor 131 can be arranged to measure the temperature around heater 182.

[0119] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a heater control method according to one embodiment.

[0120] Steps 510 to 540 below can be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The aerosol generating device 1) performs the operation. The aerosol generating device may include: an induction heating element (e.g., a heating element). Figure 1 heater 18, Figure 2 and Figure 4 heater 182 or Figure 3 heater 183), sensor unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The sensor unit 13) and the control unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 Control unit 12).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus can control the temperature of the induction heating element and / or the power used to heat the induction heating element based on an electrical curve (e.g., a first electrical curve) or a temperature curve (e.g., a first temperature curve), and can adjust at least one of the current, voltage, or duty cycle of the signal applied to the coil of the heater to control the temperature of the induction heating element and / or the power used to heat the induction heating element. The signal applied to the coil of the heater to heat the induction heating element may have a first heating frequency.

[0122] In step 510, the aerosol generating apparatus may apply a first signal having a first frequency to the coil of the heater to generate an alternating magnetic field. The first signal may have preset current, voltage, and duty ratio. For example, the first frequency may be 290 kHz.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus can execute step 510 upon receiving an input to heat the inductive heating element. For example, the state of the inductive heating element changes each time it is heated to enable a user to smoke, so the step of determining the frequency of the heating signal can be re-executed based on the state of the inductive heating element.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the induction heating element of the aerosol generating device is arranged in a separable manner, and the aerosol generating device can perform step 510 when it is determined that the arranged induction heating element has been replaced. For example, since the replaced induction heating element will have different electrical characteristics than the existing induction heating element, the step of determining the frequency of the heating signal can be re-executed corresponding to the replacement of the induction heating element.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the step of applying a first signal to the coil can last for a very short time (e.g., a few milliseconds) to prevent the temperature of the induction heating element from rising due to eddy currents induced in the induction heating element by the first signal.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the voltage of the first signal can be below a preset voltage to prevent the temperature of the induction heating element from rising due to eddy currents induced in the induction heating element by the first signal.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the inductive heating element may not be electrically connected to the aerosol generating device. Although no current flows from the aerosol generating device to the inductive heating element, the alternating magnetic field generated by the aerosol generating device and its coil can induce electromagnetic induction in the inductive heating element, causing eddy currents to flow within it.

[0128] According to one embodiment, when an aerosol generating article is inserted into an aerosol generating device, an inductive heating element can be arranged inside the aerosol generating article. For example, the inductive heating element can be a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle heating element, or a rod heating element.

[0129] According to one embodiment, an inductive heating element can be disposed in an aerosol generating article inserted into an aerosol generating apparatus. For example, the inductive heating element can be disposed in the filter forming paper of the aerosol generating article. For example, the inductive heating element can be disposed in the smoke stem of the aerosol generating article.

[0130] In step 520, the aerosol generating device can determine a first value of the electrical characteristics of the inductively heated element based on the first signal. (Refer to the following...) Figure 7 Provide a detailed explanation of the steps to determine the first value.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a detection circuit for determining a first value of the electrical characteristics of the inductively heated element as exhibited at the output of the coil of the heater based on a first signal. The detection circuit may not be electrically connected to the inductively heated element.

[0132] In step 530, the aerosol generating apparatus may determine a first heating frequency based on a first value. For example, the aerosol generating apparatus may determine a first heating frequency such that the electrical characteristics of the inductively heated element exhibited based on a second signal having the first heating frequency correspond to a first reference value. (Refer to the following...) Figures 8 to 10 A detailed explanation of the method for determining the first heating frequency based on a first value.

[0133] In step 540, the aerosol generating device can apply a first heating signal with a first heating frequency to the coil of the heater to perform electrical PID control based on a first power curve. For example, the aerosol generating device can perform electrical PID control until the inductive heating element reaches a first target temperature, thereby rapidly preheating the inductive heating element.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a DC / DC converter (e.g., a buck converter) that receives the output voltage from a power source (e.g., a battery) to regulate the voltage and applies the regulated voltage to a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter). The DC / AC converter may receive the voltage regulated by the DC / DC converter, thereby generating a signal applied to the coil of a heater. The signal voltage, etc., can be adjusted according to the magnitude of the voltage input to the DC / AC converter.

[0135] For example, a DC / DC converter can accept voltages from 2V to 6V and provide input voltages from a first voltage to a second voltage to a DC / AC converter. For instance, if the eddy current induced in the induction heating element is too large or too small based on the signal generated by the DC / AC converter when the state of the induction heating element changes, a voltage lower than the first voltage (lower limit voltage) or higher than the second voltage (upper limit voltage) needs to be used as the input voltage of the DC / AC converter to achieve heating under the target power of the power PID control. Even if the input voltage of the DC / AC converter is higher or lower than the reference voltage, the aerosol generating device can stably perform power PID control because the aerosol generating device can determine the frequency of the heating signal so that the magnitude of the eddy current in the induction heating element exhibited by the heating signal generated when the input voltage of the DC / AC converter is a preset reference voltage corresponds to the reference value, where the reference value is the magnitude of the eddy current exhibited by the reference induction heating element.

[0136] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method for determining whether to perform the step of determining the heating frequency, according to one embodiment.

[0137] Steps 610 to 630 can be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figures 1 to 4 The aerosol generating device 1) performs the operation. The aerosol generating device may include an induction heating element (e.g., a heating element). Figure 1 heater 18, Figure 2 and Figure 4 heater 182 or Figure 3 heater 183), sensor unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The sensor unit 13) and the control unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 (Control unit 12). For example, steps 610 to 620 can be performed by executing the above-mentioned control unit 12. Figure 5 The steps described are performed before step 510 or step 540, and step 540 may include step 630.

[0138] According to one embodiment, when receiving input from a heating induction heating element, the aerosol generating device can perform a step of determining the frequency of a heating signal. For example, if the aerosol generating device determines that continuous suction has occurred, or that the determined heating signal frequency is inaccurate, it can skip the step of determining the frequency of the heating signal and instead use a signal with a previously determined first heating frequency for power PID control.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a first temperature sensor (e.g., disposed around the inductive heating element to measure temperature) Figure 4 The temperature sensor 131 can be used to determine whether to perform the step of determining the heating frequency based on the temperature sensed by the first temperature sensor. For example, the first temperature sensor can be located around the inductive heating element to obtain information about whether the temperature of the inductive heating element is rising or falling. For example, the first temperature sensor can be an NTC temperature sensor.

[0140] In step 610, when the aerosol generating apparatus receives an input to heat the induction heating element of the aerosol generating apparatus, the sensor temperature can be obtained using a first temperature sensor arranged within the main body of the aerosol generating apparatus. For example, the sensor temperature can be measured at the moment the input to heat the induction heating element is received.

[0141] In step 620, the aerosol generating device can determine whether the sensor temperature falls within a preset temperature range. For example, the preset reference range for the second sensor temperature can be above 0°C and below 50°C. For example, when the temperature of the induction heating element exceeds the preset reference range, the aerosol generating device can determine that continuous suction has occurred, or that the frequency of the determined heating signal is incorrect.

[0142] For example, when the sensor temperature falls within a preset temperature range, the aerosol generating device can perform step 510 to determine the frequency of the heating signal.

[0143] For example, when the sensor temperature exceeds the preset temperature range, the aerosol generating device can execute the power PID control in step 540 instead of the step of determining the heating signal frequency.

[0144] In step 630, the aerosol generating device can apply a first heating signal with a previously determined first heating frequency to the coil of the heater to perform electric PID control. When the aerosol generating device determines that continuous suction is occurring, or that the frequency of the determined heating signal is inaccurate, it can use the previously determined first heating frequency for electric PID control.

[0145] Figure 7This is a flowchart of a method for determining the electrical characteristics of an inductive heating element according to one embodiment.

[0146] Step 710 can be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The aerosol generating device 1) performs the operation. The aerosol generating device may include an induction heating element (e.g., a heating element). Figure 1 heater 18, Figure 2 and Figure 4 heater 182 or Figure 3 heater 183), sensor unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The sensor unit 13) and the control unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 Control unit 12). For example, refer to Figure 5 The above-described step 520 may include step 710.

[0147] In step 710, the aerosol generating apparatus may determine a first value based on at least one of the current, voltage, and electrical current of a first output signal exhibited at the coil output of the heater. For example, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a detection circuit that determines a first value based on the electrical characteristics of the inductively heated element exhibited at the coil output of the heater according to the first signal. The detection circuit may not be electrically connected to the inductively heated element.

[0148] For example, the electrical characteristic can be at least one of the current, voltage, and power of the first output signal exhibited at the output terminal of the heater coil. For example, the electrical characteristic can be a characteristic determined based on at least one of the current, voltage, and power of the first output signal exhibited at the output terminal of the heater coil. For example, the electrical characteristic can be eddy currents generated in the induction heating element. For example, the electrical characteristic can be the impedance of the induction heating element. As the alternating magnetic field generated in the heater coil induces eddy currents in the induction heating element, a portion of the electrical energy of the first signal is transferred to the induction heating element, and the current, voltage, or power of the first signal can differ from the current, voltage, or power of the first output signal.

[0149] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a method for determining heating frequency based on sensor temperature according to one embodiment.

[0150] Steps 810 to 830 can be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figures 1 to 4 The aerosol generating device 1) performs the operation. The aerosol generating device may include: an induction heating element (e.g., a heating element). Figure 1 heater 18, Figure 2 and Figure 4 heater 182 or Figure 3 heater 183), sensor unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The sensor unit 13) and the control unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 Control unit 12). For example, refer to Figure 5 The above-mentioned step 530 may include steps 810 to 830.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus includes a first temperature sensor (e.g., disposed around the inductive heating element to measure temperature). Figure 4 The first temperature sensor (131) can be used to determine the heating frequency based on the sensor temperature sensed by the first temperature sensor. For example, the first temperature sensor can be arranged around the heating element to obtain information on whether the temperature of the heating element is rising or falling. For example, the first temperature sensor can be an NTC temperature sensor.

[0152] In step 810, the aerosol generating apparatus may acquire the sensor temperature using a first temperature sensor disposed within the main body of the aerosol generating apparatus. For example, the sensor temperature may be measured at the moment the first signal is applied.

[0153] In step 820, the aerosol generating device can calibrate a first value based on the temperature of the first sensor so that the first value corresponds to the electrical characteristics of the induction heating element when the temperature of the induction heating element is a first reference temperature. Since the magnitude of the eddy current exhibited by the first signal having a first frequency changes in response to the temperature of the induction heating element, calibrating the first value with the temperature of the first sensor can calibrate the changes in the magnitude of the eddy current caused by external factors (e.g., external temperature, residual heat of the induction heating element, etc.).

[0154] For example, the electrical characteristic of the inductive heating element can be the magnitude of the eddy current, and the first reference temperature can be 25°C. As the temperature of the inductive heating element increases, the magnitude of the eddy current exhibited based on the first signal having a first frequency decreases. Therefore, when the first sensor temperature is 45°C and the magnitude of the eddy current exhibited based on the first signal is 900, the magnitude of the eddy current can be calibrated to 950 based on 25°C. When the first sensor temperature is 35°C and the magnitude of the eddy current exhibited based on the first signal is 930, the magnitude of the eddy current can be calibrated to 950 based on 25°C. When the first sensor temperature is 0°C and the magnitude of the eddy current exhibited based on the first signal is 1000, the measured magnitude of the eddy current can be calibrated to 950 based on 25°C. The magnitude values ​​of the eddy current described above are arbitrary variations of the described examples, and the values ​​are not limited thereto.

[0155] In step 830, the aerosol generating apparatus may determine a first heating frequency such that a second value of the electrical characteristics of the inductively heated element, based on a second signal exhibiting the first heating frequency, corresponds to a first reference value. For example, the first reference value may be the electrical characteristics of the inductively heated element when its temperature is a first reference temperature.

[0156] For example, if the electrical characteristic of the induction heating element is eddy current, at frequencies close to a first frequency, the magnitude of the eddy current in the induction heating element, as indicated by the signal, increases as the frequency decreases and decreases as the frequency increases. For example, when the first value is less than a first reference value, a frequency less than the first frequency can be determined as the first heating frequency, so that the magnitude of the eddy current indicated by the second signal is close to the first reference value. Similarly, when the first value is greater than the first reference value, a frequency greater than the first frequency can be determined as the first heating frequency, so that the magnitude of the eddy current indicated by the second signal is close to the first reference value.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus determines a new frequency by comparing the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element exhibited by a signal based on a specific frequency with a reference value, and then compares the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element exhibited by the signal based on the new frequency with the reference value again, thereby determining a signal frequency capable of sensing the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element corresponding to the reference value. The following will refer to... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The steps for determining the heating frequency so that the electrical characteristics of the induction heating element correspond to the reference value are explained in detail.

[0158] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of a method for determining a heating frequency according to one embodiment so that the electrical characteristics of an induction heating element correspond to a reference value. Figure 10 It is based on an embodiment of the trajectory of eddy currents in an inductively heated body exhibited by a signal frequency.

[0159] Steps 910 to 930 can be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figures 1 to 4 The aerosol generating device 1) performs the operation. The aerosol generating device may include an induction heating element (e.g., a heating element). Figure 1 heater 18, Figure 2 and Figure 4 heater 182 or Figure 3 heater 183), sensor unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The sensor unit 13) and the control unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 Control unit 12). For example, see above. Figure 8 Step 830 may include steps 910 to 930.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus determines a new frequency by comparing the electrical characteristics of the induction heating element exhibited based on a specific frequency signal with a reference value, and then determines a signal frequency capable of sensing the electrical characteristics of the induction heating element corresponding to the reference value by comparing the electrical characteristics of the induction heating element exhibited based on the new frequency signal with the reference value again.

[0161] In step 910, the aerosol generating device may apply a third signal having a second frequency 1030 determined based on a first value a to the coil of the heater to generate an alternating magnetic field. A reference can be used... Figure 5 The above-described step 510, after appropriate modification, applies to step 910.

[0162] For example, if the electrical characteristic of the induction heating element is eddy current, at frequencies close to the first frequency of 1020 Hz, the magnitude of the eddy current in the induction heating element, as indicated by the signal, increases as the frequency decreases and decreases as the frequency increases. For example, as... Figure 10 As shown, when the first value 'a' is greater than the first reference value 'b', a frequency greater than the first frequency 1020 can be determined as the second frequency 1030, so that the magnitude of the eddy current based on the third signal is close to the first reference value 'b'. For example, with Figure 10 Unlike the previous example, when the first value a is less than the first reference value b, the frequency less than the first frequency 1020 can be determined as the second frequency 1030, so that the magnitude of the eddy current based on the third signal is close to the first reference value b.

[0163] In step 920, the aerosol generating apparatus can determine a third value c based on the electrical characteristics of the inductively heated element as exhibited by the third signal. A reference signal can be used... Figures 5 to 7 The above-described step 520, after appropriate modification, applies to step 920.

[0164] In step 930, the aerosol generating apparatus may determine a first heating frequency based on a third value c. The aerosol generating apparatus may determine the first heating frequency such that a second value based on the electrical characteristics of the inductively heated element exhibited by a second signal having the first heating frequency corresponds to a first reference value b.

[0165] For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, when the third value c is less than the first reference value b, a frequency less than the second frequency of 1030 can be determined as the first heating frequency, so that the magnitude of the eddy current based on the second signal is close to the first reference value b. For example, with Figure 10 Unlike the previous example, when the third value c is greater than the first reference value b, a frequency greater than the second frequency 1030 can be determined as the first heating frequency so that the magnitude of the eddy current based on the second signal is close to the first reference value b.

[0166] Reference Figure 10 Due to the first inherent frequency 1012 of the reference induction heating element and the induction heating element arranged in the aerosol generating device (e.g.: Figure 1 heater 18, Figure 2 and Figure 4 heater 182 or Figure 3The second natural frequencies 1014 of the heater 183 are different from each other, therefore the first eddy current trajectory 1002 of the reference induction heating element and the second eddy current trajectory 1004 of the induction heating element arranged in the aerosol generating device are also different. If the aerosol generating device (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The aerosol generating device 1) can perform a frequency sweep across the entire frequency band, thereby generating a first eddy current trajectory 1002 of the reference induction heating element and a second eddy current trajectory 1004 of the induction heating element arranged in the aerosol generating device.

[0167] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus can determine a first heating frequency such that the magnitude of the eddy current of the induction heating element as indicated by the signal based on the first heating frequency is the same as the magnitude of the eddy current of the reference induction heating element as indicated by the signal based on the first frequency 1020.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the reference induction heating element and the induction heating element arranged in the aerosol generating device may exhibit different electrical characteristics for the same signal. For example, when a first signal with a first frequency of 1020 is applied, the reference induction heating element may generate an eddy current with a first reference value b, while the induction heating element arranged in the aerosol generating device may generate an eddy current with a first value a.

[0169] For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, at frequencies close to the first frequency 1020, the magnitude of the eddy current in the inductively heated element, as indicated by the signal, increases as the frequency decreases and decreases as the frequency increases. Since the first value 'a' is greater than the first reference value 'b', the frequency greater than the first frequency 1020 can be determined as the second frequency 1030. Since the third value 'c' is less than the first reference value 'b', the frequency less than the second frequency 1030 can be determined as the first heating frequency.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the magnitude of the eddy current in the induction heating element, based on the signal frequency, can be indirectly obtained by a detection circuit connected to the coil output of the heater. Since the eddy current is generated by the induction heating element absorbing at least a portion of the electrical energy carried by the signal applied to the coil of the heater, the detection circuit can compare the current, voltage, or power of the signal applied to the coil of the heater with the current, voltage, or power of the output signal, thereby indirectly obtaining the magnitude of the eddy current in the induction heating element. Because the detection circuit indirectly obtains the eddy current of the induction heating element, the induction heating element is not electrically connected to other components of the aerosol generating device, thus allowing for easy replacement of the induction heating element in the aerosol generating device.

[0171] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a preheating method for an induction heating element according to one embodiment.

[0172] Steps 1110 and 1120 can be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figures 1 to 4 The aerosol generating device 1) performs the operation. The aerosol generating device may include: an induction heating element (e.g., a heating element). Figure 1 heater 18, Figure 2 and Figure 4 heater 182 or Figure 3 heater 183), sensor unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 The sensor unit 13) and the control unit (e.g.: Figures 1 to 4 Control unit 12). For example, when executing the reference Figure 5 After step 540 as described above, steps 1110 and 1120 can be executed.

[0173] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can preheat the induction heating element to a target temperature using a preheating mode, and the preheating mode can include multiple intervals. For example, the aerosol generating device can heat the induction heating element to a first target temperature by executing electric PID control in a first interval of the preheating mode. For example, the aerosol generating device can heat the induction heating element to a second target temperature using temperature PID control in a second interval of the preheating mode. The aerosol generating device can rapidly and efficiently heat the induction heating element using electric PID control in the first interval, and precisely control the temperature of the induction heating element using temperature PID control in the second interval.

[0174] In step 1110, when the temperature of the inductive heating element reaches the first target temperature through electrical PID control, the aerosol generating device can apply a second heating signal to the coil of the heater to perform temperature PID control based on the first temperature curve. For example, the frequency of the second heating signal can be the first frequency. By executing temperature PID control, the temperature of the inductive heating element can be precisely controlled.

[0175] In step 1120, when the temperature of the induction heating element reaches the second target temperature through temperature PID control, the aerosol generating device can output a notification to the user informing them that the aerosol generating device is ready to smoke. The user can smoke when the temperature of the induction heating element reaches the second target temperature and both the induction heating element and the aerosol generating article have completed preheating. For example, the aerosol generating device can apply a third heating signal to the coil of the heater to perform temperature PID control based on a second temperature curve corresponding to the user's smoking behavior.

[0176] 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.

[0177] 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.

[0178] The detailed description above should be considered exemplary in all respects and not limited in its application. 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. A heater control method for an aerosol generating device, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: A first signal with a first frequency is applied to the coil of the heater to generate an alternating magnetic field. Determine a first value for the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element based on the first signal. The first heating frequency is determined based on the first value, and A first heating signal having the first heating frequency is applied to the coil of the heater to perform power PID control based on a first power curve.

2. The heater control method for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the first heating frequency includes the following steps: The first heating frequency is determined such that a second value of the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element, based on a second signal having the first heating frequency, corresponds to a first reference value.

3. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first reference value uses the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element when its temperature is at a first reference temperature as a reference. The step of determining the first heating frequency based on the first value further includes the following steps: The temperature of the first sensor is obtained using a first temperature sensor arranged within the main body of the aerosol generating device, and The first value is calibrated based on the temperature of the first sensor so that the first value corresponds to the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element when the temperature of the inductive heating element is a first reference temperature.

4. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the first heating frequency based on the first value includes the following steps: A third signal having a second frequency determined based on the first value is applied to the coil of the heater to generate an alternating magnetic field. Determine a third value for the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element as exhibited by the third signal, and The first heating frequency is determined based on the third value.

5. The heater control method for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the first value of the electrical characteristic of the inductive heating element includes the following steps: The first value is determined based on at least one of the current, voltage, and power of the first output signal exhibited at the output terminal of the coil of the heater.

6. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The electrical characteristic of the induction heating element is eddy current.

7. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: When the temperature of the induction heating element reaches the first target temperature through the power PID control, a second heating signal is applied to the coil of the heater to perform temperature PID control based on the first temperature curve.

8. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: When the temperature of the inductive heating element reaches the second target temperature through the temperature PID control, a notification is output to the user informing them that the aerosol-generating item is ready to be smoked.

9. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The frequency of the second heating signal is the same as the first frequency.

10. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, The frequency of the second heating signal is the same as the first heating frequency.

11. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, When an input is received to heat the inductive heating element of the aerosol generating device, the first signal having the first frequency is applied to the coil of the heater.

12. The heater control method for the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: When an input is received to heat the inductive heating element of the aerosol generating device, the temperature of the second sensor is obtained using a first temperature sensor arranged in the main body of the aerosol generating device. When the temperature from the second sensor is within a preset temperature range, the first signal having the first frequency is applied to the coil of the heater. When the temperature of the second sensor exceeds the preset temperature range, the first heating signal with the previously determined first heating frequency is applied to the coil of the heater to perform the power PID control.

13. A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for performing the method of claim 1.

14. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: An induction coil generates an alternating magnetic field, and The control unit controls the aerosol generating device; The control unit is configured to: A first signal with a first frequency is applied to the coil of the heater to generate an alternating magnetic field. Determine a first value for the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element based on the first signal. The first heating frequency is determined based on the first value, and A first heating signal having the first heating frequency is applied to the coil of the heater to perform power PID control based on a first power curve.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that: It also includes a first temperature sensor, which is disposed within the main body of the aerosol generating device; When the control unit determines the first heating frequency... The temperature of the first sensor is obtained using the first temperature sensor. The first value is calibrated based on the temperature of the first sensor so that the first value corresponds to the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element when the temperature of the inductive heating element is a first reference temperature. The first heating frequency is determined such that a second value of the electrical characteristics of the inductive heating element, based on a second signal having the first heating frequency, corresponds to a first reference value.

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