Aerosol-generating device and control method thereof

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus is disclosed. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generating apparatus may include: a housing having an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article; a heater configured to heat the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space; a first fan module disposed in a region adjacent to the insertion space; and a control unit configured to control the drive of the first fan module based on the state of the aerosol generating apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments of the present invention relate to an aerosol generating apparatus and a fan module disposed inside the aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] An aerosol generating device produces aerosols by heating a liquid or solid substance and has a structure that allows a user to inhale the aerosol. To enable the heated aerosol to be inhaled into the user's mouth, the aerosol generating device may have internal channels for the flow of air and aerosol.

[0003] Heating the aerosol-generating substance within the confined interior space of the aerosol generator allows airflow to be created using the air movement generated by the user's breathing. The user can inhale one end of the aerosol-generating substance, causing air and aerosol to flow into their mouth. Outside the aerosol generator's casing, air can flow inwards as the user inhales.

[0004] However, when an airflow is generated while an aerosol-generating item is inserted, the user may experience a feeling of obstruction when inhaling. Furthermore, since the aerosol is heated inside the casing, the user may also experience discomfort due to the high temperature while smoking. Therefore, there is a need for a method that can easily generate an airflow inside an aerosol-generating device, while simultaneously managing the internal heat of the device and removing foreign matter. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem the invention aims to solve The present invention aims to provide an aerosol generating device that provides various functions by providing a fan module for forming airflow inside the aerosol generating device.

[0006] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other problems not mentioned from the following description.

[0007] means for solving problems According to an embodiment of the present invention, the housing of an aerosol generating device may include: a housing having an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article; a heater configured to heat the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space; a first fan module disposed in a region adjacent to the insertion space; and a control unit configured to control the first fan module in multiple modes based on the state of the aerosol generating device.

[0008] The first fan module can generate airflow in different directions according to the multiple modes.

[0009] The first fan module may include: a blade section including one or more blades; a motor configured to drive the blade section; and a fan heater configured to heat the airflow generated by the blade section.

[0010] The blade portion can be configured to rotate in a first direction or a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0011] The first fan module can be configured on the airflow channel inside the housing.

[0012] The first fan module can be configured on the airflow channel at the lower end of the insertion space.

[0013] An aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include: a second fan module disposed inside the housing at a different position from the first fan module, the second fan module being configured to include at least a portion of the structure of the first fan module.

[0014] In an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, the heater may include: a heater body extending upward from the insertion space to insert the aerosol generating article, the heater body being configured to include at least one opening region.

[0015] The at least one opening region may include an opening region formed on the heater body facing the upper end of the aerosol generating article.

[0016] The at least one opening region may be configured to communicate with the airflow channel.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention, the control unit can be configured to independently drive the blade section and the fan heater.

[0018] When the preheating of the aerosol generating device begins, the control unit can control the first fan module in a first mode, which can be set to rotate the blades in a first direction and supply power to the fan heater.

[0019] After the preheating of the aerosol generating device is completed or during the suction of the aerosol generating device, the control unit can control the first fan module in a second mode. The second mode can be set to rotate the blades in a first direction and stop supplying power to the fan heater.

[0020] When the aerosol-generated article is separated from the insertion space after the suction of the aerosol generating device is completed, the control unit can control the first fan module in a third mode. The third mode can be set to include at least a second direction control range that causes the blades to rotate in a second direction and stops supplying power to the fan heater.

[0021] The third mode may further include: a first direction control interval, which causes the blade portion to rotate in a first direction, wherein the first direction control interval and the second direction control interval can be set to be executed alternately.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a control method for an aerosol generating apparatus includes a housing forming an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article, a heater configured to heat the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, a fan module, and a control unit. The fan module is disposed in a region adjacent to the insertion space. The control method may include a step of confirming the state of the aerosol generating apparatus and a step of controlling the drive of the fan module based on the state of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0023] Invention Effects According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one fan module is provided inside the aerosol generating device. The fan module is controlled according to the state of the aerosol generating device. The control unit configured to control the fan module can perform multiple functions by controlling the blades and the fan heater of the fan module respectively.

[0024] The control unit can assist in the preheating of the aerosol generator by controlling the fan module, which can reduce the user's feeling of blockage when pumping, and can perform the cooling and drying functions of the aerosol generator.

[0025] The effects of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0026] A more full and clear understanding of the invention and its various aspects can be obtained by considering the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0029] Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0030] Figure 4 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0031] Figure 5 A fan module of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0032] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The internal structure of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0033] Figure 9 The internal structure of an aerosol generating device equipped with multiple fan modules is shown.

[0034] Figure 10 and Figure 11 Various embodiments of heaters disposed in aerosol generating apparatus are shown.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 It is a flowchart showing the method by which the control unit controls the fan module in a first mode or a second mode, and a diagram showing the airflow inside the aerosol generating device.

[0037] Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is a flowchart showing the method by which the control unit controls the fan module in the third mode, and a diagram showing the airflow inside the aerosol generating device.

[0038] Figure 19 It is a schematic diagram showing the state of the aerosol generating device in chronological order. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, the same or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components in connection with the description of the drawings.

[0040] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used in the following description are for ease of writing only and are used interchangeably. “Module” and “unit” do not inherently have a distinguishing meaning or function. On the other hand, 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 constitutes a whole, or it can be the smallest unit or part of that performing one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented as an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC).

[0041] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of relevant well-known technologies will be omitted if they are deemed to obscure the main idea of ​​the disclosed embodiments. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are provided merely to facilitate understanding of the disclosed embodiments and should not be used to limit the technical concepts disclosed herein. Rather, they should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives falling within the scope of the ideas and technologies of this disclosure.

[0042] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited to the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one constituent element from another.

[0043] When a constituent element is "connected" or "joined" to another constituent element, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or joined to the other constituent element, and there may be other constituent elements between them. Conversely, when a constituent element is "directly connected" or "directly joined" to another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements between them.

[0044] Unless otherwise explicitly stated in the context, singular expressions include plural expressions.

[0045] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented as software including one or more instructions stored in a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., memory 17). 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 instructions stored in the storage medium and execute that instruction. This enables the machine to perform 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 machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, "non-transitory" means only that the storage medium is a tangible device, excluding signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored.

[0046] In this disclosure, the orientation of the aerosol generating device 1 can be defined using a Cartesian coordinate system as a reference. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis direction 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.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0048] 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, based on the design of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, those skilled in the art will understand that... Figure 1 Some of the constituent elements shown may be omitted, or other constituent elements may be added.

[0049] 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 movement sensor. On the other hand, 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.

[0050] 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 an additional 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.

[0051] 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 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 sense the temperature and / or temperature changes of heaters 18 and 24 based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0052] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that senses 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 sense the temperature and / or temperature change of heaters 18 and 24 based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0053] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor can be configured adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to one side of the power supply 11 (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on one side of a printed circuit board. As an example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a power protection circuit (protection circuit module, PCM), and the temperature sensor can be configured adjacent to the power supply 11 together with the power protection circuit.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor can also be disposed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 1 to sense the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0056] 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 sense the user's suction based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the gas flow path. The suction sensor may be configured to correspond to the gas flow path in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0057] As another example, the suction sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user suctions, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, the space where the aerosol generating item is inserted (hereinafter, the insertion space), heaters 18 and 24, etc. The control unit 12 can sense the user's suction based on a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc., output from the temperature sensor.

[0058] As another example, the suction sensor may also include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor can measure the temperature, which is used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. For 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 receives these signals and can correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0059] As another example, the suction sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In this disclosure, the capacitance sensor may be referred to as a cap sensor or a capacitive sensor. When a user suctions, temperature changes and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol-generating article, thus changing the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. The control unit 12 can sense the user suction based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space output by the capacitance sensor.

[0060] 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.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor can sense the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion sensing sensor can be disposed around the insertion space. Alternatively, the insertion sensing sensor can also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0062] As an example, the insertion sensing sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor, which may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. When the 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 sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant or similar information output by the capacitance sensor within the insertion space.

[0063] As another example, the insertion sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, which may be configured adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article (e.g., the wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil through which 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, the aerosol generating article (e.g., the dielectric portion of the aerosol generating article) may also include a susceptor (SUS), etc. Even in this case, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil based on the insertion or removal of the susceptor, etc., within the insertion space, and the control unit 12 may sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the characteristics of the current from the inductive sensor.

[0064] 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 or the like for sensing a press caused by the aerosol-generating article.

[0065] According to one embodiment, a reusability sensing sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is reused. As an example, the reusability sensing sensor can be a color sensor for sensing the color of the aerosol-generating article. When a user uses the aerosol-generating article, the color of a portion of the outer packaging paper 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 packaging paper, based on the light reflected from it. When a change in the color of a portion of the packaging paper is sensed, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has been used.

[0066] 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 disposed adjacent to the insertion space. The control unit 12 can sense 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 by the capacitive sensor. As an example, the control unit 12 can confirm a level range including the signal level based on a lookup table, and can determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or sense the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0068] 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 paper) 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 sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the range of said wavelengths.

[0069] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 may sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space output by the capacitive sensor.

[0070] As another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When the packaging paper 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 when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the insertion space (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of alternating current) may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 may sense whether the inserted aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor.

[0071] Cigarette identification sensors are not limited to the examples above and can be implemented by various sensors used to sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or to sense the type of aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, cigarette identification sensors can also include any combination of the examples above.

[0072] 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 (HAL IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0073] According to one embodiment, a cover sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cover. For example, the cover sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall sensor, and / or an optical sensor. The cover may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge installed or inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device 1. When the cover is installed on 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.

[0074] According to one embodiment, a motion sensing sensor can sense the movement of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion sensing sensor can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer or a gyroscope sensor.

[0075] 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)), and a proximity sensor. Those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, therefore detailed descriptions are unnecessary.

[0076] 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 tactile 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 article detected). The display can provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 visually. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED) light-emitting element, a liquid crystal display (LCD), and an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). When the display includes a touchpad, it can also be used as an input unit 15. The tactile unit can provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 tactilely. For example, the tactile part may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The audio output part can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 through hearing. For example, the audio output part can convert electrical signals into audio signals and output them to the outside.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the power supply 11 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The power supply 11 may include one or more batteries. The power supply 11 can supply power to heat the heaters 18 and 24. Additionally, the power supply 11 can supply power required to operate other structures included in the aerosol generating device 1, such as the control unit 12, sensor unit 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power supply 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power supply 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 device 1, or detached from the battery housing. The removable battery can also be charged via wired and / or wireless means.

[0078] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can receive power from power source 11 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).

[0079] 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, including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome alloys. Resistance heaters can be implemented as metal heating wires, metal heating plates with conductive tracks, ceramic heating elements, etc.

[0080] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can be induction heating type heaters. For example, an induction heating type heater may include a sensor that heats by a magnetic field. An alternating current flowing through the 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 sensor. The sensor can be heated based on the generation of eddy currents. According to one embodiment, the sensor may also be disposed inside the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium section). In this case, the sensor inside the aerosol generating article can be heated by the induction coil.

[0081] Heaters 18 and 24 are not limited to the examples above, and may also include various heating methods, structures, components, etc., for heating aerosol-generating articles and / or smoke cartridges, or be replaced by these.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the input unit 15 can receive information input by the 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.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the memory 17 serves as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generating apparatus 1, and can store data already processed by the control unit 12 as well as 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, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. For example, the memory 17 may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic machines). 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 Wireless Fidelity Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Adaptive Network Topology (Ant)+ communication unit, a Cellular Network Communication Unit, an Internet Communication Unit, a Computer Network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the overall aerosol generating device 1. For example, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The control unit 12 may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller unit (MCU) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program executable in the MCU. Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains, it can also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 by controlling the power supply from the power source 11 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.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heaters 18, 24 by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heaters 18, 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, 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 as 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) or a field-effect transistor (FET).

[0088] 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 cycle of the switching element's on / off operation can correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply 11.

[0089] 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 control the supply of 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 a PID method (a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time) to control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine the target power that becomes the control objective based on the power curve. The control unit 12 can also control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 over time to correspond to the preset target power.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can sense the user's suction by sensing the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. More specifically, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 using a PID control method. When the user suctions, the space where the aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter, the insertion space), heaters 18 and 24, etc., may experience a temporary temperature drop. Therefore, during the PID-controlled power supply process, the power (or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 may change. The control unit 12 can sense the user's suction based on the change in the controlled power.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the heaters 18 and 24 from overheating. For example, when the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a preset limit temperature, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 or interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the charging and 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 is above 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 is above 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 sensing values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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, when the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space using an insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), it can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space using an insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), it can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When 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.

[0096] 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, when it is determined by using an over-humidity sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humidity state, the control unit 12 can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generated article is reused. For example, when it is determined that the aerosol-generated article is being used, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the cartridge is attached and / or removed. For example, when the cartridge is determined to be in a detached state using a cartridge sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), the control unit 12 can interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or control that power is not supplied to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0099] 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, when it is determined that the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating process (i.e., within the preheating range), the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted. When it is determined 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.

[0100] 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 usable. For example, when the control unit 12 determines that the current number of puffs is greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge based on data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge is unusable. Alternatively, when the total heating time of the heaters 18 and 24 is greater than a preset maximum time or the total power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 is greater than a preset maximum power, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge is unusable. In this case, the control unit 12 can control the interruption of power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or prevent power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0101] 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 occurs and / or the intensity of suction. When the number of suctions reaches a preset maximum number of suctions and / or when no suction is sensed for a preset time or longer, 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 also control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0102] 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 the type of the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge). For example, the control unit 12 can use a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of the aerosol-generating article. As an example, when 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. When 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, when 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 a first power curve), and when 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 a second power curve).

[0103] 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, when 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 in a visual, tactile, and / or auditory manner. For example, the control unit 12 can also control the output unit 14 to provide information about the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 in a visual, tactile, and / or auditory manner.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can store and update the historical records of events that occur in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of predetermined events. For example, events may include actions performed in the aerosol generating apparatus 1, such as: insertion sensing of the aerosol generating article, heating start of the aerosol generating article, suction sensing, suction end, overheating sensing of heaters 18 and 24, overvoltage application sensing of heaters 18 and 24, heating end of the aerosol generating article, power on / off of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, charging start of power supply 11, overcharging sensing of power supply 11, and charging end of power supply 11. For example, the historical records of events may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, when the predetermined event is insertion sensing of the 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, when the predetermined event is overheating sensing of heaters 18 and 24, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, the voltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, and the current flowing through heaters 18 and 24.

[0105] 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.

[0106] According to one embodiment, when receiving authentication data from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique identifier for the user, and whether the user's authentication was completed.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can transmit 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 transmitted data can be output through a display or the like on the external device.

[0108] According to one embodiment, when 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 action corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit 12 can control the tactile unit to vibrate, or control the display to output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0109] According to one embodiment, when firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can perform a firmware update.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can transmit data regarding the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor unit 13 to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing 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 actions such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve.

[0111] 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, in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging of the power supply 11, disconnect the circuit of the power supply 11. The aerosol generating device 1 also includes a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and can connect to other external devices to send and receive information, or charge the power supply 11 via the connection interface.

[0112] 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 configured to correspond to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be arranged differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating substance, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating substance may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin, VG) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may also include various other substances. For example, the additives may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may also include various other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may include an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., an aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine) and / or a solid tobacco substance (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco substance may be included in the aerosol generating rod in various forms such as shredded tobacco, granules, powder, etc. According to one embodiment, the additives in the aerosol generating stick may include an alkaline substance. According to the alkaline substance, the nicotine of the tobacco substance included in the aerosol generating stick has an alkaline pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, free-base nicotine can be released from the aerosol generating stick even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating stick includes two or more aerosol generating sticks, which may further include tobacco substance and / or non-tobacco substance respectively. On the other hand, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating stick and at least one filter rod may be individually and / or integrally wrapped by at least one wrapper. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0113] The cartridges mentioned in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any state (e.g., liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel). The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid comprising tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid comprising non-tobacco materials. Alternatively, the cartridge may include a storage section containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or a liquid delivery unit impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery unit may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic wick. The cartridge heater 24 may be disposed in the cartridge in the form of a coil surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery unit or in a structure contacting one side of the liquid delivery unit. Alternatively, the cartridge heater 24 may also include an aerosol-generating device 1 that can be separated from the cartridge.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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, the components of the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited to... Figure 2 or Figure 3 As shown, those skilled in the art will understand that some constituent elements may be omitted, or new structures may be added. Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "internal heating type" aerosol generating device for heating 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 for heating the outside of the aerosol generating article 2. In the following figures, details related to... Figure 1 Repeated explanation.

[0116] 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 formed recessed to a predetermined depth toward the interior of the housing 10 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 that includes 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.

[0117] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0118] Reference Figure 2 Heater 182 can be an internal heating type heater.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the internally heated heater can extend upwards relatively long 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 bottom of the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0120] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0121] For example, the resistance heater comprises a resistive material on its inner side (e.g., hollow interior or inner surface) or outer side (e.g., outer surface), and heat is generated as current flows through the resistive material. In this case, the resistance heater can be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and can directly generate heat by receiving current from the power supply 11. Alternatively, the induction coil 181 can be omitted.

[0122] For example, in the case of an induction heating type 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., disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In this case, the outer side of the induction coil 181 may further include a magnetic flux concentrator to improve the efficiency of induction heating. The induction heating type heater includes a sensor and can generate heat based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181. According to one embodiment, the induction heating type heater (e.g., the sensor) (or the heater module including it) may also be configured to be detachable from the housing 10.

[0123] 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 may be aligned along their length. The first and second heaters can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, heating sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first and second heaters may also be positioned corresponding to the length directions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the first and second heaters may be positioned corresponding to the length directions of a first portion and a second portion of an aerosol generating rod. On the other hand, when heater 182 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which may also be positioned corresponding to the length directions of the first and second heaters. Alternatively, the first and second heaters may be positioned corresponding to the length directions of a first portion and a second portion of a heater 182. Additionally, three or more heaters and / or induction coils may be included.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the sensor is disposed (or included) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the medium section), and can also be implemented such that the sensor included inside the aerosol generating article 2 heats up based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181.

[0125] Reference Figure 3 Heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0126] According to one embodiment, an externally heated heater can extend relatively long upward around the space where the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the externally heated heater can be configured to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. As an example, the externally heated heater can include a tubular (e.g., cylindrical) shape with a hollow portion inside. The externally heated heater can also include a shape with a hollow portion inside and enclosing the hollow portion. In this case, the externally heated heater can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be called a film heater. The externally heated heater can be configured to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The externally heated heater can heat the outer side of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the hollow portion.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and the following is omitted: Figure 2 To reiterate. On the other hand, in the case of an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an external heating type heater implemented by a tubular sensor, and may include an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of the external heating type heater (e.g., disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). Additionally, the induction coil 181 may also include a fan coil. On the other hand, when the external heating type heater is a resistance heater, heating can be achieved by current flow in a tubular resistance heater (e.g., a film heater), thus the additional induction coil 181 can be omitted. Furthermore, the exterior of the external heating type heater may also be provided with insulating material. This reduces the heat radiating outwards from the heater 183 and applied to the exterior of the housing 10.

[0128] According to one embodiment, heater 183 can be multiple heaters, with a first heater and a second heater configured to be arranged side-by-side along the length direction and respectively surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space. The first and second heaters can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, heating sequentially or simultaneously. Alternatively, when heater 183 is an induction heater, aerosol generating apparatus 1 includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which can also be respectively positioned at locations corresponding to the length directions of the first and second heaters. Alternatively, the first and second heaters can also be respectively positioned at locations corresponding to the length directions of a first portion and a second portion of heater 183.

[0129] and Figure 2 or Figure 3 The results are different. Figure 2 heater 182 and Figure 3 The heater 183 can also be installed together with the aerosol generating device 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.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may be provided with an airflow channel for air movement. 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 may enter the aerosol generating article 2 through its lower end (i.e., upstream side). The aerosol generated by heating the aerosol generating article 2 may be inhaled into the user's mouth along with the inflowing air through its upper end (i.e., downstream side).

[0131] Figure 4 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include: a housing 10, a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor unit 13, and / or heaters 183 and 24 (e.g., Figure 1 (Heats 18, 24). However, those skilled in the art will understand that the components included in the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited to those in the conventional sense. Figure 4 As shown, some of its constituent elements can be omitted, or new elements can be added. In the following figures, [the elements are related to...]. Figure 1 Repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the housing 10 may provide an upwardly opening space (hereinafter referred to as an insertion space) for inserting the aerosol generating article 2. The insertion space may be formed such that it is recessed into the housing 10 to a predetermined depth, so as to allow at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 to be inserted. The lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the housing 10, and the upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 may protrude outward from the housing 10.

[0134] Unlike the illustration, the cartridge 19 may also provide an insertion space for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2. In this case, the insertion space may be formed by recessing a predetermined depth into the cartridge 19 to allow at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 to be inserted. The lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the cartridge 19, and the upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 may protrude outward from the cartridge 19. Additionally, in this case, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a heater 183.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the insertion depth can exceed the length of the region in the aerosol generating article 2 that includes the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The user can hold the exposed upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 in their mouth and inhale air.

[0136] According to one embodiment, heater 183 can heat the aerosol generating article 2. Heater 183 can extend upwardly and relatively long around the periphery of the space where the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, heater 183 can be a tubular shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) with an internal cavity. Heater 183 can include a shape with an internal cavity and surrounding the cavity. In this case, heater 183 can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can also be referred to as a film heater. Heater 183 can be configured to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. Heater 183 can heat the outer side of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the cavity. In this disclosure, heater 183 can be referred to as an external heating type heater for heating the outer side of the aerosol generating article 2. Additionally, the exterior of heater 183 can also be provided with heat-insulating material. This reduces the heat radiating outward from heater 183 and applied to the exterior of housing 10.

[0137] According to one embodiment, heater 183 may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0138] For example, a resistance heater comprises a resistive material, and heat is generated as an electric current flows through the resistive material. In this case, the resistance heater can be electrically connected to a power source 11, and can receive current from the power source 11 to generate heat directly.

[0139] For example, in the case of a heater employing induction heating, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include an induction coil (not shown) surrounding at least a portion of the heater 183 (e.g., disposed externally in a manner corresponding to the length of at least a portion of the heater 183). In this case, to improve the efficiency of induction heating, a magnetic flux concentrator or the like may also be included outside the induction coil (not shown). The induction heating heater may include a sensor and is capable of generating heat based on the magnetic field generated by the induction coil (not shown).

[0140] According to one embodiment, heater 183 may also be a multi-heater. The multi-heater may include a first heater and a second heater, which can be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2. The first and second heaters may be aligned along their length. The first and second heaters may operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, heating sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first and second heaters may also be respectively positioned at locations corresponding to the length directions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the first and second heaters may be respectively positioned at locations corresponding to the length directions of a first portion and a second portion of a single aerosol generating rod. Furthermore, when heater 183 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which may also be respectively positioned at locations corresponding to the length directions of the first and second heaters. Alternatively, the first and second heaters may be respectively positioned at locations corresponding to the length directions of the first portion and a second portion of a single heater 183. Additionally, three or more heaters and / or induction coils may be included.

[0141] Unlike the illustration, the aerosol generating device 1 may also exclude the heater 183. The aerosol generating article 2 may be directly or indirectly heated by the cartridge heater 24, or it may not be substantially heated. Indirect heating means that the aerosol generating article 2 is heated by receiving the heat carried by the aerosol as it passes through the cartridge heater 24. In this case, the aerosol generating device 1 may be referred to as a non-heating (or indirectly heated) aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating rod of the aerosol generating article 2 may include additives such as alkaline substances. Based on this alkaline substance, the nicotine included in the aerosol generating rod may have an alkaline pH value (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). This alkaline nicotine may flow into the user's mouth along with the aerosol flowing from the cartridge 19 into the aerosol generating article 2, as described later.

[0142] Unlike the illustration, heater 183 may also include an internal heating type heater. For example, the internal heating type heater may include various heating elements such as rod-shaped, tubular, plate-shaped, or needle-shaped heating elements. The internal heating type heater can be inserted from the bottom of the aerosol generating article 2 and can be set to heat the inside of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 19 can be detachably attached to the housing 10. For example, a space is formed on one side of the housing 10, and at least a portion of the cartridge 19 can be inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 10, thereby allowing the cartridge 19 to be mounted on the housing 10. Alternatively, the cartridge 19 can also be integrally formed with the housing 10.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the cartridge 19 may be provided with an airflow channel for air movement. For example, the housing 10 may include a structure that allows air to flow from the outside into the housing 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. The incoming air can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the insertion space through the airflow channel CN, and then into the user's mouth. The airflow channel CN ​​may also include various structures for reducing residual liquid stains or facilitating airflow.

[0145] exist Figure 4 Although the image shows the cartridge 19 positioned on the side of the aerosol generating article 2, with the airflow channel CN ​​extending from the side of the aerosol generating article 2 towards its lower end (i.e., upstream side), the positions of the cartridge 19 and the airflow channel CN ​​are not limited to this. For example, the cartridge 19 may be positioned adjacent to the lower end (i.e., upstream side) of the aerosol generating article 2. In this case, the airflow channel CN ​​may also be formed in a substantially straight line to connect the cartridge 19 to the lower end (i.e., upstream side) of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 19 may include: a storage section C0 containing an aerosol-generating substance, a liquid delivery device, and a cartridge heater 24 impregnated with and / or the aerosol-generating substance. The liquid delivery device may be impregnated with the aerosol-generating substance supplied from the chamber C0. For example, the liquid delivery device may include a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, etc.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 can heat the aerosol-generating material including the cartridge 19. For example, the cartridge heater 24 may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0148] For example, a resistance heater includes a resistive material, and heat is generated as an electric current flows through the resistive material. As another example, in the case of a heater employing induction heating, the aerosol generating device 1 may also have an induction coil (not shown) disposed around the periphery of the induction heating heater. The induction heating heater includes a sensor that can generate heat based on the magnetic field generated by the induction coil (not shown). The cartridge heater 24 may be formed in a coil configuration surrounding (or winding around) the liquid delivery device and / or in contact with one side of the liquid delivery device (e.g., a patterned configuration).

[0149] Unlike the illustration, the cartridge heater 24 can also be located within the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the cartridge heater 24 can be located inside the housing 10. In this case, the cartridge 19 can be separated from the cartridge heater 24 by removing the cartridge 19.

[0150] According to one embodiment, an aerosol can be generated based on the heating of the cartridge heater 24. For example, when the aerosol generating material impregnated on the liquid delivery device is heated by the cartridge heater 24, the aerosol generating material can generate steam, and the generated steam mixes with the external gas flowing into the cartridge 19 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 can flow into the aerosol generating article 2 through the airflow channel CN. As the aerosol passes through the aerosol generating article 2, tobacco or flavoring substances can be incorporated into the aerosol, and the aerosol infused with tobacco or flavoring substances can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0151] Figure 5 A fan module of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0152] Reference Figure 5 According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fan module 20 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include: a blade section 201, including one or more blades; a motor (not shown) driving the blade section 201; and a fan heater 202 heating the airflow generated by the blade section 201. A power supply section 204 is provided on the fan module 20 to supply power to the fan heater 202 and the motor.

[0153] The blade section 201 includes at least one blade. The blade section 201 can rotate and generate airflow. The blade section 201 can be rotated in a first direction or a second direction by means of a motor. The second direction can be the opposite of the first direction. The first direction or the second direction can be clockwise or counterclockwise. That is, the blade section 201 is capable of rotating in both directions.

[0154] The direction of airflow generated by the rotation of the blade section 201 can correspond to the direction of rotation of the blade section 201. The direction of rotation of the blade section 201 and the direction of airflow can be defined with reference to the airflow channel CN ​​formed in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0155] The aerosol generating device 1 may be provided with an airflow channel CN. An opening may be formed on the housing 10 of the aerosol generating device 1 to allow air to flow in from the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. Additionally, an insertion space may be formed on the aerosol generating device 1 for inserting the aerosol generating article 2. The airflow channel CN ​​may be configured to connect the opening and the insertion space.

[0156] During the suction process, external air can flow in through the orifice and flow into the insertion space along the airflow channel CN. The fan module 20 can be configured within the airflow channel CN. When the blades 201 of the fan module 20 rotate in a first direction, the generated airflow can be generated in the direction from the fan module 20 towards the insertion space. The first direction can be the same as the direction in which air flowing in from outside the aerosol generating device 1 flows into the insertion space along the airflow channel CN.

[0157] When the blade portion 201 of the fan module 20 rotates in the second direction, the generated airflow can be generated in a direction from the insertion space to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. The second direction can be the opposite of the first direction described above. The second direction can be the direction in which air is discharged from the insertion space along the airflow channel CN ​​to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0158] A fan heater 202 can be configured on one side of the blade portion 201. The fan heater 202 can heat the airflow generated by the blade portion 201. The fan heater 202 can be a resistance heater. The airflow can be heated by allowing an electric current to flow through a resistive material, causing the resistive material to heat up. Alternatively, the fan heater 202 can include at least one coil. When the power supply 204 supplies power to the coil, the coil can be heated. The airflow generated by the blade portion 201 can be heated as it passes through the coil.

[0159] To allow airflow, the fan heater 202 may be formed in a shape including a cavity. The fan heater 202 may include at least one coil, and multiple coils may be configured at predetermined intervals. Airflow may pass between the coils and be heated.

[0160] For example, the fan heater 202 can be formed as a coil in a mesh shape. When the coil is formed in a mesh shape, the contact area between the airflow through the coil and the coil is larger, making it easier to heat the airflow.

[0161] The fan module 20 may include a housing 203 forming the outer boundary of the fan module 20. Blades 201 may be disposed inside the housing 203 of the fan module 20. The housing 203 of the fan module 20 may be formed with openings on both sides. One of the open sides may be configured to be covered by a fan heater 202. The fan heater 202 may be disposed only on one side of the blades 201. The configuration relationship between the fan heater 202 and the blades 201 can be determined based on the configuration direction of the structure that can utilize the airflow heated by the fan heater 202.

[0162] The control unit 12 can control the drive of the fan module 20. The control unit 12 can control the drive of the fan module 20 based on the state of the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 12 can control whether the motor and blade section 201 operate, and whether the fan heater 202 operates. The control unit 12 can independently control the blade section 201 and the fan heater 202. The control unit 12 can control the rotation direction of the blade section 201; as the rotation direction of the blade section 201 changes, the airflow generation direction also changes. The control unit 12 can also control the rotation speed of the blade section 201. The speed and amount of airflow generated in the blade section 201 need to be adjusted according to the state of the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, it can reduce the noise generated by the device.

[0163] Figures 6 to 8 The internal structure of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0164] Reference Figures 6 to 8 The fan module 20 is disposed inside the aerosol generating device 1 and can generate airflow. The aerosol generating device 1 may include an airflow channel CN ​​connecting an insertion space for inserting the aerosol generating article 2 to the outside of the housing 10. The fan module 20 is disposed in the airflow channel CN ​​and can generate airflow along the airflow channel CN.

[0165] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the fan module 20 can be configured in an area adjacent to the insertion space. The airflow generated by the fan module 20 can flow into the interior of the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0166] The fan module 20 may include blades 201 for forming airflow and a fan heater 202 for heating the airflow. Through the operation of the fan module 20, an airflow can be formed based on the state of the aerosol generating device 1, thereby enhancing the function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the fan module 20 can blow heated airflow toward the heaters 182 and 183, thereby assisting in the preheating of the heaters 182 and 183. After the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the insertion space, aerosol can be formed inside the aerosol generating article 2 through the preheating of the heaters 182 and 183. To assist in the preheating of the heaters 182 and 183, the fan module 20 can blow heated airflow toward the heaters during the preheating period of the heaters 182 and 183.

[0167] The fan module 20 can generate airflow to reduce the feeling of obstruction during inhalation. When the user inhales the upper part of the aerosol-generating item 2, the aerosol inside the item 2 flows towards the inside of the mouth. By sensing the user's inhalation, the fan module 20 can generate an airflow in the same direction as the airflow during inhalation.

[0168] The fan module 20 can generate airflow to cool or dry the interior of the aerosol generating device 1. Since the aerosol generating device 1 includes heated heaters 182 and 183 and aerosols are formed inside, it is necessary to cool the device and remove any liquid residue generated inside. When the aerosol generating device 1 is overheated or when the user finishes smoking, the fan module 20 can generate airflow to exhaust heated air to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1, thereby cooling the device. Additionally, outside air can be allowed to flow in to remove liquid residue formed inside the aerosol generating device 1.

[0169] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 equipped with an internal heating type heater 182. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a portion of the enlarged aerosol generating apparatus 1. An internal heating type heater 182 can be disposed inside the insertion space of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the insertion space, the internal heating type heater 182 can be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2.

[0170] An airflow channel CN ​​that communicates with the insertion space can be formed on the inner side of the insertion space. Figure 6 The diagram shows an airflow channel CN ​​extending at the lower end of the insertion space. The airflow channel CN ​​serves to connect the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1 with the insertion space. Air can flow into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space via the airflow channel CN. Heated by the heater 182, the aerosol formed inside the aerosol generating article 2 can be drawn into the user's mouth by the airflow.

[0171] An airflow channel CN ​​can be formed at the bottom of the insertion space. The airflow channel CN ​​connects the insertion space to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 at the bottom of the insertion space. A fan module 20 can be installed on the airflow channel CN. The fan module 20, located in the airflow channel CN, can generate airflow along the airflow channel CN.

[0172] The fan module 20 can be configured in a region adjacent to the insertion space. The fan module 20 is configured adjacent to the insertion space so that airflow can be directed towards the aerosol-generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space. The fan module 20 can be configured with the fan heater 202 facing towards the insertion space. The airflow generated by the blades 201 can be heated by the fan heater 202 and then flow towards the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0173] When using an internally heated heater 182, the lower end of the insertion space may include a heater 182 extending in a rod shape. The heater 182 extends at the lower end of the insertion space and can be configured adjacent to the fan module 20. The fan module 20 can generate airflow toward the heater 182. The fan module 20 can be configured facing the lower end of the heater 182 so that the airflow generated by the fan module 20 can flow toward the insertion space and the heater 182. The fan module 20 and the lower end of the heater 182 are opposite each other and can be configured at a predetermined distance. Based on the overall airflow channel CN, the fan module 20 can be positioned biased toward the insertion space. Therefore, the airflow generated by the fan module 20 can easily flow toward the insertion space and the heater 182.

[0174] The interior of heater 182 can be hollow. A hollow heater 182 can be considered a tubular heater. At least one opening area can be formed on heater 182. An airflow channel CN ​​can communicate with the interior space of heater 182. That is, the airflow generated by fan module 20 can flow along airflow channel CN ​​through the interior of heater 182 and through the opening area. The airflow passing through heater 182 can flow to the interior of aerosol generating article 2 or the insertion space. The insertion space and airflow channel CN ​​can communicate through the interior space of heater 182.

[0175] Aerosol generating device 1 may include multiple heaters 182, Figure 6 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 shown includes both an internal heating type heater 182 and an external heating type heater. That is, it may include a rod-shaped heater 182 extending from the lower end of the insertion space and a heater disposed outside the insertion space. The external heating type heater may include an induction coil 181.

[0176] Figure 7An aerosol generating apparatus 1 employing an externally heated heater 183 is shown. The heater 183 can be provided on the outside of the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the insertion space, the heater 183 can heat the outside of the aerosol generating article 2 so that aerosol can be generated inside the aerosol generating article 2.

[0177] An airflow channel CN ​​can be formed at the bottom of the insertion space. The airflow channel CN ​​at the bottom of the insertion space allows the insertion space to communicate with the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. A fan module 20 can be installed on the airflow channel CN. The fan module 20, located on the airflow channel CN, can generate airflow along the airflow channel CN.

[0178] The fan module 20 can be configured in a region adjacent to the insertion space. The fan module 20 is configured adjacent to the insertion space so that airflow can be directed towards the aerosol-generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space. The fan module 20 can be configured with the fan heater 202 facing towards the insertion space. The airflow generated by the blades 201 can be heated by the fan heater 202 and then flow towards the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0179] The airflow channel CN ​​can be directly connected to the insertion space. The fan module 20, which is arranged adjacent to the insertion space, can allow airflow to flow directly into the insertion space through the airflow channel CN. When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted and the heater 183 heats the aerosol generating article 2, the fan module 20 can direct the heated airflow into the insertion space.

[0180] Figure 8 The interior of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, in which a cartridge 19 is provided, is shown. When the cartridge 19 is provided, an airflow channel CN ​​can be formed to connect the cartridge 19 to an insertion space. One end of the airflow channel CN ​​can be connected to the lower end of the insertion space. The other end of the airflow channel CN ​​can be connected to the cartridge 19. Air flowing in from the outside can flow along the airflow channel CN ​​to the insertion space after passing through the cartridge 19.

[0181] The fan module 20 can be configured in the airflow channel CN, in an area adjacent to the insertion space. The fan module 20 is configured adjacent to the insertion space and generates airflow. A heater 183 can be installed in the insertion space. The heater 183 heats the aerosol-generated item 2 inserted into the insertion space. The fan module 20 is configured adjacent to the insertion space to generate airflow towards the insertion space and can assist in the preheating of the heater 183. Additionally, airflow can be generated to reduce the feeling of obstruction during user suction.

[0182] Even when the aerosol generating device 1 is equipped with smoke cartridge 19, it can still achieve the following: Figure 6It is generally equipped with an internal heating type heater 182. The configuration of heater 182 and fan module 20 can be... Figure 6 The arrangement is similar to that shown. The fan module 20 is configured in the airflow channel CN, and can be positioned opposite the lower end of the heater 182. The fan module 20 can also be configured on the airflow channel CN ​​adjacent to the insertion space.

[0183] Figure 9 The internal structure of an aerosol generating device equipped with multiple fan modules is shown.

[0184] The aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may be provided with at least one fan module 20. That is, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may be provided with multiple fan modules 20. (See also...) Figure 9 The image is shown with two fan modules 20a and 20b. The two fan modules 20a and 20b can be referred to as the first fan module 20a and the second fan module 20b, respectively.

[0185] The first fan module 20a and the second fan module 20b can be configured in the airflow channel CN. The first fan module 20a can be configured in a region adjacent to the insertion space. The first fan module 20a can assist in the preheating of the aerosol generating device 1. The first fan module 20a can generate airflow to reduce the obstruction sensation caused by the user's suction.

[0186] Based on the direction of the airflow drawn by the user, the airflow channel CN ​​can be divided into upstream and downstream. The downstream of the airflow channel CN ​​can be located in an area adjacent to the insertion space. The first fan module 20a can be configured downstream of the airflow channel CN. Compared with the first fan module 20a, the second fan module 20b can be configured upstream of the airflow channel CN.

[0187] The first fan module 20a and the second fan module 20b can be configured separately at a predetermined interval. The second fan module 20b can generate airflow in the airflow channel CN, facilitating the easier flow of air from the outside of the housing 10. The second fan module 20b can also cause the aerosol generated by the cartridge 19 to flow downstream of the airflow channel CN. When the user inhales, the second fan module 20b can generate airflow in the direction corresponding to the user's inhalation. In this case, the first fan module 20a and the second fan module 20b can operate simultaneously. The first fan module 20a and the second fan module 20b can operate simultaneously, or they can operate independently depending on the state of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0188] Figure 10 and Figure 11 Various embodiments of heaters disposed in aerosol generating apparatus are shown.

[0189] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The heater shown can be an internally heated type heater 182. The heater 182 may extend from the lower end of the insertion space. The heater 182 may include a heater body 182-a extending upward into the insertion space to insert an aerosol-generating article. The heater body 182-a may be formed in a rod or needle shape. A cavity may be formed inside the heater body 182-a. For airflow, the heater body 182-a may include at least one open area H. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The heater body shown is illustrated with an open area H.

[0190] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The heater body 182-a shown is hollow internally and has an opening region H formed on its surface. To generate an aerosol, the aerosol generating article 2 includes an aerosol generating substance. The heater body 182-a is inserted into the aerosol generating article 2 to heat the aerosol generating substance. The aerosol generating substance is heated, generating an aerosol, which flows into the user's mouth through suction.

[0191] The interior of the aerosol generating article 2 contains an aerosol generating substance that needs to be heated uniformly. Furthermore, in order for the airflow passing through the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 to traverse its entire area, the airflow needs to be relatively wide.

[0192] An opening region H may be formed on the heater body 182-a, and the opening region H may be connected to the airflow channel CN. Air flowing into the airflow channel CN ​​can be discharged to the opening region H through the internal space of the heater body 182-a. At least one opening region H may be formed on the heater body 182-a. By adjusting the configuration and number of opening regions H, the airflow into the aerosol generating article 2 can be controlled.

[0193] Figure 10 The heater body 182-a is shown with multiple opening regions H formed thereon. These opening regions H can be arranged at predetermined intervals and can be formed over the entire area of ​​the heater body 182-a. Air flowing into the interior space of the heater body 182-a can pass through these opening regions H. The opening regions H can be formed along the length direction of the heater body 182-a. The length direction of the heater body 182-a is parallel to the length direction of the insertion space and the aerosol generating article 2. Therefore, airflow through the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 can pass through the entire area of ​​the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0194] Figure 11An opening region H is shown formed in the heater body 182-a at the upper end facing the aerosol generating article 2. The opening region H, formed at the upper end of the heater body 182-a, allows air passing through the interior space of the heater body 182-a to be exhausted through the opening region H at the upper end of the heater body 182-a. The opening region H formed at the upper end of the heater body 182-a corresponds to the end of the heater body 182-a, and the air exhausted from this portion can diffuse radially.

[0195] The interior space of the heater body 182-a is narrow, and the airflow under high temperature and pressure flows here. When the airflow is discharged through the opening area H of the heater body 182-a, it can diffuse due to the pressure difference. At the opening area H, the airflow diffuses to a wider area, thereby forming an airflow in a way that generates an article 2 over a wider area through aerosol.

[0196] The control method of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0197] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0198] Reference Figure 12 The control method for the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a step of identifying the state of the aerosol generating apparatus (step S10) and a step of the control unit controlling the fan module (step S20). The control unit 12 may control the fan module 20 in accordance with the state of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The specific control method for the fan module 20 may be changed according to the state of the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0199] The status of the aerosol generating device 1 can be identified by the control unit 12. The control unit 12 acquires the status information of the aerosol generating device 1 and can generate a signal for driving the fan module 20 accordingly. The control unit 12 can control the operating time of the fan module 20, the operating time of the fan module 20, and whether the blade section 201 or the fan heater 202 is operating.

[0200] The status of the aerosol generating device 1 can include various information. For example, the status of the aerosol generating device 1 can include whether the aerosol generating device 1 is preheating, whether the user is inhaling, whether the aerosol-generated article 2 has been inserted, or whether the aerosol generating device 1 has been terminated. Depending on the identified status of the aerosol generating device 1, the fan module 20 can operate in different ways.

[0201] The fan module 20 can operate in at least one mode. The control unit 12 can operate the fan module 20 in a mode corresponding to the state of the aerosol generating device 1. In each mode, the fan module 20 can be controlled in different ways.

[0202] The operating modes of the fan module 20 are divided into three modes: mode 1 to mode 3. In each mode, the rotation direction of the blade section 201 and whether to supply power to the fan heater 202 can be set.

[0203] In the first mode, the blades 201 of the fan module 20 can rotate in a first direction. Simultaneously, power can be supplied to the fan heater 202. When the blades 201 rotate in the first direction, airflow can be generated in a manner that flows from the fan module 20 towards the insertion space side. When power is supplied to the fan heater 202, the fan heater 202 can heat the airflow generated by the rotating blades 201 in the first direction.

[0204] When the fan module 20 operates in the first mode, the heated airflow can flow toward the insertion space and the aerosol-generating item 2 inserted into the insertion space. This can assist in the preheating of the aerosol-generating item 2.

[0205] In the second mode, the blades 201 of the fan module 20 can rotate in the first direction. Simultaneously, power supply to the fan heater 202 can be stopped. When the blades 201 rotate in the first direction, airflow can be generated in a manner that flows towards the insertion space side. When power supply to the fan heater 202 is stopped, the fan heater 202 is not heated. The airflow generated by the rotating blades 201 in the first direction can flow towards the insertion space side in an unheated state.

[0206] When the fan module 20 operates in the second mode, the relatively cool airflow can perform the cooling and drying operations of the aerosol generating device 1. Additionally, it can reduce the feeling of obstruction during suction for the user.

[0207] In the third mode, the blade portion 201 of the fan module 20 can rotate in a second direction. Simultaneously, power supply to the fan heater 202 can be stopped. When the blade portion 201 rotates in the second direction, airflow can flow from the insertion space toward the fan module 20. That is, an airflow is formed in the opposite direction to the airflow formed when the blade portion 201 rotates in the first direction.

[0208] When the fan module 20 operates in the third mode, the cooling and drying operations of the aerosol generating device 1 can be performed because of the relatively low-temperature airflow.

[0209] Figures 13 to 15It is a flowchart showing the method by which the control unit controls the fan module in a first mode or a second mode, and a diagram showing the airflow inside the aerosol generating device.

[0210] Figure 13 The method by which the control unit 12 controls the fan module 20 to assist in the preheating of the aerosol generating device 1 is shown.

[0211] First, the step of sensing the state of the aerosol generating device can be performed (step S131). In this embodiment, the state of the aerosol generating device 1 represents whether the aerosol generating device 1 is being preheated. The control unit 12 can sense whether the aerosol generating device is being preheated (step S133).

[0212] Whether the aerosol generating device 1 is preheating can be sensed by sensing whether the heaters 182 and 183 are heating. Whether the aerosol generating device 1 is preheating can also be sensed by sensing whether the preheating of the aerosol generating device 1 has started. When it is sensed that the aerosol generating device 1 is being preheated, the control unit 12 can control the fan module in the first mode (step S135).

[0213] In the first mode, the blades 201 of the fan module 20 can rotate in a first direction. Simultaneously, power can be supplied to the fan heater 202. The airflow generated by the rotation of the blades 201 in the first direction passes through the fan heater 202 and flows towards the aerosol-generating article 2. The air heated by the fan heater 202 flowing towards the aerosol-generating article 2 can quickly complete the preheating of the aerosol-generating article 2. That is, the fan module 20 can assist in the preheating of the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0214] If the aerosol generating device 1 is not in a preheating state, the step of sensing the state of the aerosol generating device can continue (step S131).

[0215] Figure 14 The method shown is for the control unit 12 to control the fan module 20 to remove heated air inside the aerosol generating device 1 or to assist the user's suction.

[0216] First, the step of sensing the state of the aerosol generating device can be performed (step S141). The state of the aerosol generating device 1 can be whether the preheating of the aerosol generating device 1 is complete. When it is sensed that the preheating is complete, the control unit 12 can control the fan module 20 in the second mode. If the preheating is not yet complete, the step of sensing the state of the aerosol generating device 1 can continue. That is, the step of sensing whether the preheating of the aerosol generating device 1 is complete can continue.

[0217] When preheating is complete, the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 is heated to a high temperature to generate aerosols. When a user inhales the aerosol generating article 2 containing hot aerosols and air, the hot aerosols and air flow into the user's mouth, causing discomfort. Therefore, it is necessary to expel the hot aerosols and air before the user inhales.

[0218] When preheating is detected as complete, the control unit 12 controls the fan module in a second mode (step S147). In the second mode, the control unit 12 can rotate the blade section 201 in a first direction to generate airflow. Power supply to the fan heater 202 can be stopped. The airflow can flow along the airflow channel CN ​​towards the aerosol generating article 2. When the airflow enters the interior of the aerosol generating article 2, the high-temperature aerosol and air can be discharged to the exterior of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0219] The control unit 12 can operate the fan module 20 in a second mode for a preset time. The preset time can be set to be sufficient for the high-temperature aerosol and air inside the aerosol generating article 2 to be expelled. When the fan module 20 operates in the second mode for the preset time, the user can begin suction. The aerosol generating device 1 can inform the user to begin suction by providing specific tactile feedback.

[0220] After the aerosol generating device 1 has finished preheating, a notification indicating that preheating is complete can be provided. In the case of an aerosol generating device 1 equipped with a fan module 20, after preheating is complete and the fan module 20 has operated in the second mode for a predetermined time, a notification indicating that preheating is complete can be provided. In this case, the preheating process of the aerosol generating device 1 may even include a step of expelling the high-temperature aerosols and air from inside the aerosol generating article 2.

[0221] Reference Figure 14 After determining whether the preheating of the aerosol generating device is complete (step S143), the step of sensing whether suction has started can be performed (step S145-a). If it is before suction starts, the control unit 12 can make the fan module operate in the second mode described above (step S147).

[0222] When suction is detected to begin, the fan module 20 can be controlled to assist the user's suction.

[0223] At least a portion of the aerosol-generating item 2 is inserted into the insertion space. The user can suck on the exposed end of the aerosol-generating item 2 and perform suction. By suctioning, the aerosol and air inside the aerosol-generating item 2 can be drawn in.

[0224] The aerosol-generated article 2 is used for suction, but a feeling of obstruction may occur during suction. The fan module 20 generates airflow, which can reduce the feeling of obstruction during user suction. The control unit 12 can operate the fan module in a second mode in response to user suction (step S147).

[0225] That is, during the user's suction, the fan module 20 can operate in the second mode. From the time the user begins suction to the time the suction ends, the fan module 20 can operate in the second mode. The state of the aerosol generating device 1, which serves as the control reference for the control unit 12, can be the start and end of suction. Whether suction is in progress can be sensed by a pressure sensor or a temperature sensor.

[0226] Reference Figure 15 When the fan module 20 is controlled to operate in either the first or second mode, the direction of airflow can be determined. The first and second modes differ in whether power is supplied to the fan heater 202. Therefore, airflow can be generated in the same direction. When the fan module 20 is controlled to operate in either the first or second mode, airflow can be formed from the fan module 20 towards the insertion space side.

[0227] Air flowing in from outside the aerosol generating device 1 flows along the airflow channel CN ​​through the fan module 20 to the insertion space side. The insertion space can be in a state where the aerosol generating item 2 is inserted. Airflow can pass through the interior of the aerosol generating item 2.

[0228] If the aerosol generating device 1 is being preheated, the fan module 20 is controlled to operate in the first mode and supply power to the fan heater 202, thereby allowing the heated airflow to flow into the interior of the aerosol generating device 1. After the aerosol generating device 1 has finished preheating, if it is before the first suction begins or the user is performing suction, the fan module 20 is controlled to operate in the second mode.

[0229] Figures 16 to 18 This is a flowchart showing the method by which the control unit controls the fan module in the third mode, and a diagram showing the airflow inside the aerosol generating device.

[0230] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a flowchart showing the state in which the fan module 20 is controlled to cool and dry the interior of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0231] Cooling and drying of the aerosol generating device 1 can be performed after the user finishes smoking. Therefore, the fan module 20 can be controlled by sensing whether the user has finished smoking or whether the device is in use.

[0232] The user's smoking session can be determined by sensing whether the aerosol-generating item 2 has separated from the insertion space after the user finishes inhaling. After inserting the aerosol-generating item 2, the user can inhale repeatedly. After the last inhalation, the user can remove the used aerosol-generating item 2 to end smoking or to use the next aerosol-generating item 2 (to continue smoking).

[0233] When the control unit 12 controls the fan module 20 in the third mode, the corresponding aerosol generating device 1 can be in a state of whether smoking has ended or whether the device is turned on or off.

[0234] When the aerosol-generated item 2 is separated from the insertion space after the user finishes inhaling, the control unit 12 can determine that the user's inhalation session has ended. In this case, the control unit 12 can control the fan module 20 in a third mode.

[0235] When a user finishes smoking, the control unit 12 can control the fan module 20 between that smoking session and the next. When the user changes to the aerosol generating item 2 for continuous smoking, the control unit 12 can control the fan module 20 in a third mode during the interval between two sessions. The aerosol generating device 1 can provide a signal indicating that smoking can begin after the fan module 20 has operated in the third mode for a predetermined time. After receiving the smoking start signal, the user can insert the aerosol generating item 2 into the insertion space. Afterward, preheating of the aerosol generating device 1 can begin.

[0236] The control unit 12 can sense whether the aerosol generating device 1 is turned on or off. When the aerosol generating device 1 is turned off and no aerosol generating item 2 is inserted into the insertion space, the fan module 20 can be operated in a third mode. After the aerosol generating device 1 is turned off, the fan module 20 can operate in the third mode for a preset time to cool and dry the inside of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0237] After the aerosol generating device 1 is turned off, it can be stored in the user's storage space. Therefore, when the control unit 12 controls the fan module 20 in the third mode after the aerosol generating device 1 is turned off, the rotation speed of the blade section 201 can be reduced. Compared to the case where the third mode is used between two smoke sessions, the blade section 201 can rotate at a slower speed and form an airflow.

[0238] When the aerosol generating device 1 is turned off, sufficient buffer time can be provided for the operation of the fan module 20, thus increasing the operation time of the fan module 20. When the fan module 20 operates in the third mode for a first time between two smoke cycles and then operates in the third mode for a second time after the aerosol generating device 1 is turned off, the second time can be set to be longer than the first time.

[0239] In the third mode, the blade section 201 can rotate in the second direction, blocking power supply to the fan heater 202. When the blade section 201 rotates in the second direction, airflow can be formed from the insertion space toward the fan module 20. Air can flow into the airflow channel CN ​​through the portion communicating with the airflow channel CN ​​of the insertion space. Cooling and drying inside the aerosol generating device 1 can be achieved by using external air.

[0240] The third mode includes multiple control intervals. The interval in which the blade section 201 rotates in the second direction can be equivalent to the second direction control interval. When the control unit 12 controls the fan module 20 in the third mode, if the fan module 20 is controlled within the second direction control interval of the third mode, the blade section 201 can rotate in the second direction.

[0241] The third mode may further include a first direction control range that rotates the blade portion 201 in the first direction. The third mode may include at least one of the first direction control range and the second direction control range; conversely, it may include both the first direction control range and the second direction control range simultaneously.

[0242] The third mode can be configured to alternate between the first direction control interval and the second direction control interval. In this case, the blade section 201 can rotate the application time of the first direction control interval in the first direction, and then rotate the application time of the second direction control interval in the second direction.

[0243] The order of the first directional control zone and the second directional control zone can be changed. Furthermore, the number of repetitions can also be changed when the zones operate in an overlapping manner. The blade section 201 can operate once in the second directional control zone, then once in the first directional control zone, then once more in the second directional control zone, and finally once more in the first directional control zone.

[0244] The third mode is used to cool and dry the interior of the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 12 controls the state of the aerosol generating device 1 of the fan module 20 in the third mode, which may include whether it is in an over-humidified state. Aerosols are generated inside the aerosol generating article 2, and the aerosol generating article 2 may be in an over-humidified state. When smoking is done using the over-humidified aerosol generating article 2, there is a possibility that liquid residue may remain inside the aerosol generating device 1.

[0245] The control unit 12 can sense whether the aerosol generating article 2 is in an over-humidified state. This over-humidity sensor can detect whether the aerosol generating article 2 is in an over-humidified state. When the over-humidity sensor determines that the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 is over-humidified, the control unit 12 can operate the fan module 20 in a third mode. However, in order to smoothly remove liquid stains, the aerosol generating article 2 needs to be separated from the insertion space. Therefore, by determining whether the aerosol generating article 2 is in an over-humidified state using the over-humidity sensor, a step of sensing whether the aerosol generating article 2 has been separated can be performed when it is in an over-humidified state. Afterwards, when the aerosol generating article 2 is separated from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the fan module 20 in the third mode.

[0246] In contrast, the control unit 12 can control the fan module 20 in a third mode when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can sense whether the aerosol generating article 2 is over-humidified and whether the aerosol generating device 1 is being heated. During periods when the user is not performing suction, the control unit 12 can control the fan module 20 to remove moisture from the aerosol generating article 2, while simultaneously expelling heated air and aerosol to the outside of the housing 10.

[0247] As described above, when the fan module 20 operates with the aerosol generating article 2 inserted, the operating time of the fan module 20 can be a time when the user is not performing suction or a time set by the user. The control unit 12 can drive the fan module 20 during the interval between two suctions by the user. In contrast, the user can directly operate the control unit 12 to drive the fan module 20. When the user feels the need for cooling and drying, they can operate the aerosol generating device 1 to cause the control unit 12 to drive the fan module 20. The user can drive the fan module 20 by operating a button provided on the aerosol generating device 1. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 1 can be provided with a button that activates the cooling and drying functions via the control unit 12.

[0248] Reference Figure 18 In the third mode, the airflow generated by the fan module 20 can be generated in the direction from the fan module 20 to the insertion space, or conversely, in the direction from the insertion space to the fan module 20.

[0249] By utilizing the bidirectional airflow, heat inside the aerosol generating device 1 can be dissipated to the outside, while liquid stains caused by aerosol-generating substances and aerosols can be removed. This enables the cooling and drying of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0250] When the fan module 20 generates bidirectional airflow, the airflow can flow along the airflow channel CN. The upstream of the airflow channel CN ​​is formed in the housing 10 and can be connected to the outside of the housing 10, while the downstream of the airflow channel CN ​​can be connected to the insertion space.

[0251] In the case of the aerosol generating device 1 using the cartridge 19, the airflow channel CN ​​can be formed along the side of the cartridge 19. A cartridge heater 24 can be disposed on one end of the cartridge 19. The cartridge heater 24 generates aerosol by heating the aerosol generating substance contained in the cartridge 19. The airflow channel CN ​​can be formed in a manner that allows the aerosol formed on the cartridge heater 24 to move.

[0252] The cartridge 19 contains an aerosol generating element 2, which provides heated aerosol through the airflow channel CN. When the cartridge 19 is inserted into the housing 10, there is a risk of damage to the cartridge 19 when the fan module 20 generates airflow towards it. Damage to the cartridge 19 may lead to leakage of the aerosol generating substance. Therefore, when the aerosol generating device 1 is installed in the cartridge 19, the separation of the cartridge 19 can be considered when controlling the fan module 20.

[0253] When the control unit 12 rotates the blade section 201 in the second direction to generate airflow in the direction from the insertion space to the fan module 20, it can determine whether the cartridge 19 has separated from the housing 10. If the cartridge 19 is in a state of being attached to the housing 10, the control unit 12 can rotate the blade section 201 only in the first direction instead of in the second direction.

[0254] When the control unit 12 controls the fan module 20, the status information of the aerosol generating device 1 sensed by the control unit 12 may include whether the aerosol generating item 2 has been reused. When the user reuses the aerosol generating item 2 that has already been used, the control unit 12 can sense that the aerosol generating item 2 has been reused.

[0255] Whether aerosol generating article 2 has been reused can be determined by sensing its excessive moisture level. When aerosol generating article 2 is reused, some moisture may remain inside due to its previous use. The excessive moisture sensor can detect whether aerosol generating article 2 has been reused by sensing its excessive moisture level.

[0256] When the aerosol generating article 2 is reused and the smoking using the reused aerosol generating article 2 ends, the control unit 12 can control the fan module 20 in a third mode. After smoking ends, when it is sensed that the aerosol generating article 2 has been separated from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can drive the fan module 20 in the third mode. In contrast, the fan module 20 can also be driven even when the aerosol generating article 2 has not been separated from the insertion space.

[0257] Figure 19 This is a flowchart showing the state of the aerosol generating device in chronological order.

[0258] When a user uses aerosol generating device 1, the area from the preheating of aerosol generating device 1 to its shutdown can be divided into multiple zones based on the state of aerosol generating device 1.

[0259] The first interval is the interval during which the aerosol generating device 1 is turned on and preheating is completed. When a user smokes through the aerosol generating device 1, the process involves inserting the aerosol generating item 2 into the insertion space and preheating it. Therefore, the first interval can be considered as the interval during which the aerosol generating item 2 is inserted into the insertion space and preheating occurs.

[0260] The fan module 20 can operate in a first mode within the first section. The fan module 20 can generate airflow along the direction in which the aerosol generating article 2 is positioned. Power can be supplied to the fan heater 202 to heat the airflow. The flow of the heated airflow toward the aerosol generating article 2 can assist in preheating. When preheating is complete, the operation of the fan module 20 can be interrupted.

[0261] The second interval is from the completion of preheating of the aerosol generating device 1 to the user's first inhalation. During the preheating phase, the aerosol generating item 2 contains both high-temperature air and aerosol. If the user inhales during this state, they will inhale the high-temperature aerosol and air during the first inhalation, which may cause discomfort.

[0262] After preheating, before the user's first suction, the fan module 20 can operate in a second mode. The fan module 20 can generate airflow along the direction in which the aerosol generating article 2 is positioned. Power to the fan heater 202 is stopped, allowing the airflow to flow towards the aerosol generating article 2 in an unheated state. High-temperature aerosols and air can be removed before the user's suction.

[0263] The third zone is the zone where the user inhales. Specifically, the zone where the user inhales the end of the aerosol-generated item 2 is the third zone. In this third zone, the fan module 20 can operate in a second mode. The fan module 20 generates airflow in the same direction as the user's inhalation. This reduces the feeling of obstruction experienced by the user during inhalation.

[0264] The fourth interval is the interval after the user finishes inhaling. It represents the situation where the user has inhaled N times, completing the use of aerosol-generating item 2. In this case, the user can either stop smoking or insert a new aerosol-generating item 2 to start smoking again.

[0265] Specifically, the fourth zone can be considered as the zone after the aerosol-generating article 2 separates from the insertion space after the user finishes inhaling. When the user finishes smoking and the aerosol-generating article 2 separates from the insertion space, the fan module 20 can operate in a third mode. In the third mode, the blade section 201 can rotate in the first or second direction to generate airflow. Power supply to the fan heater 202 can be stopped. The fan module 20 operating in the third mode enables cooling and drying of the interior of the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0266] The fifth zone is the zone after the aerosol generator 1 is turned off following the fourth zone. When the user finishes smoking and removes the aerosol-generating item 2 from the insertion space and ceases smoking, the user can turn off the aerosol generator 1. After turning it off, the fan module 20 can operate in the third mode for a specified time to allow the aerosol generator 1 to cool and dry.

[0267] The embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above are not exclusive to or different from each other. The configurations or functions of each of the embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above can be used together or combined.

[0268] For example, this means that structure A illustrated in a particular embodiment and / or the accompanying drawings can be combined with structure B illustrated in other embodiments and / or the accompanying drawings. That is, it means that even if the combination between structures is not directly described, it is assumed that the combination can be made unless it is explicitly stated that the combination is not possible.

[0269] The detailed description above should not be construed as limiting in any way, but should be regarded as exemplary. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all variations within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: The shell has an insertion space for inserting aerosol-generating items. The heater is configured to heat the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The first fan module is configured in a region adjacent to the insertion space, and The control unit is configured to control the first fan module in multiple modes based on the state of the aerosol generating device. The first fan module is configured to generate airflow in different directions from each other according to multiple said patterns.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first fan module includes: The blade section includes one or more blades. The motor is configured to drive the blade section, and The fan heater is configured to heat the airflow generated by the blade section.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The blade portion is configured to rotate in a first direction or in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first fan module is configured in the airflow channel inside the housing.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first fan module is disposed at the lower end of the insertion space on the airflow channel.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The second fan module is configured inside the housing at a different location than the first fan module. The second fan module is configured to include at least a portion of the first fan module.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heater includes: The heater body extends upward from the insertion space and is inserted into the aerosol generating article; The heater body is configured to include at least one open area.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, At least one of the opening regions includes an opening region formed in the heater body facing the upper end of the aerosol generating article.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, At least one of the opening regions is configured to communicate with the airflow channel.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The control unit is configured to independently drive the blade section and the fan heater.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the preheating of the aerosol generating device begins, the control unit controls the first fan module in a first mode. The first mode is set to rotate the blade section in a first direction and supply power to the fan heater.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, After the preheating of the aerosol generating device is completed or during the suction process of the aerosol generating device, the control unit controls the first fan module in a second mode. The second mode is set to rotate the blade section in the first direction and stop supplying power to the fan heater.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the aerosol-generated article is sensed to have separated from the insertion space after the suction of the aerosol generating device has ended, the control unit controls the first fan module in a third mode. The third mode is configured to include at least a second direction control range that causes the blade portion to rotate in a second direction, and to stop supplying power to the fan heater.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that, The third mode also includes: The first direction control zone causes the blade portion to rotate in the first direction; The first directional control interval and the second directional control interval are set to be executed alternately.

15. A control method for an aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising a housing forming an insertion space for inserting an aerosol generating article, a heater configured to heat the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, a fan module, and a control unit, characterized in that, The fan module is configured in an area adjacent to the insertion space. The control method includes: The step of confirming the status of the aerosol generating device. The step of controlling the drive of the fan module based on the state of the aerosol generating device.

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