Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus for generating aerosols by heating an aerosol generating article, comprising: a first heater for generating heat inside the aerosol generating article; a second heater for generating heat outside the aerosol generating article; and a sensor disposed outside the aerosol generating article in a region different from the region where the second heater is disposed, corresponding to the first heater, and for detecting the aerosol generating article and generating a signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This embodiment relates to an aerosol generating apparatus, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating apparatus capable of effectively heating multiple areas of an aerosol generating article. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is increasing demand for systems that use aerosol generating devices to heat cigarettes or aerosol-generating substances to produce aerosols, rather than burning cigarettes. Therefore, research on heated aerosol generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] Aerosol-generating articles comprise multiple regions to perform functions such as generating aerosols, imparting fragrance, and providing functional ingredients. To generate high-quality aerosols from the aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating device needs to be able to heat the article uniformly. Furthermore, for each region of the aerosol-generating article to perform its respective function, each region needs to be heated at a suitable temperature. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved The embodiment provides an aerosol generating apparatus capable of uniformly heating aerosol-generating articles.

[0005] Furthermore, the embodiments provide an aerosol generating apparatus capable of heating various regions of an aerosol generating article at a suitable temperature.

[0006] Furthermore, the embodiments provide an aerosol generation apparatus for improving the accuracy and durability of sensors.

[0007] The technical problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned technical problems. Those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain can clearly understand the unstated technical problems from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0008] Additional aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, which may be learned by practice of the embodiments or will be apparent from the description.

[0009] Technical solutions for solving the problem An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is used to generate aerosols by heating an aerosol generating article, comprising: a first heater for generating heat inside the aerosol generating article; a second heater for generating heat outside the aerosol generating article; and a sensor disposed on the outside of the aerosol generating article in a region different from the region where the second heater is disposed, corresponding to the first heater, and for detecting the aerosol generating article and generating a signal.

[0010] Technical effect In the aerosol generating apparatus according to the above embodiment, since it includes a first heater inserted into a part of the aerosol generating apparatus and heating the interior of the aerosol generating article, and a second heater located outside another part of the aerosol generating article and heating the exterior of the aerosol generating article, it is possible to effectively heat various areas of the aerosol generating article.

[0011] Furthermore, since the heating actions of the first and second heaters can be controlled according to the type of aerosol generating article based on the sensor signals, it is possible to effectively heat a variety of aerosol generating articles.

[0012] Furthermore, since the sensor is positioned in a region different from the region where the second heater is located, the impact of the heat generated in the second heater on the sensor is minimized, thereby improving the reliability and durability of the sensor's operation.

[0013] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above. Those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain can clearly understand the effects not mentioned from this specification and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The above, other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of this disclosure will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the description provided below.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 It is Figure 3 A perspective view showing a portion of the elements of the aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5This is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to yet another embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to yet another embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to yet another embodiment.

[0022] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to yet another embodiment.

[0023] Figure 9 It is shown in Figure 8 The diagram illustrates the state of different types of aerosol-generating items inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0024] Figure 10 It shows the basis Figures 1 to 9 A flowchart illustrating the steps of operating the aerosol generating apparatus of the illustrated embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, the same or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components in the description of the drawings.

[0026] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used in the following description for the purpose of drafting the specification are used interchangeably or for convenience only, and do not inherently have different meanings or functions. Furthermore, the suffixes “module” or “unit” can include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and can be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” can be a component that is integrally formed or the smallest unit or part of said component that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0027] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of relevant well-known technologies will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the spirit of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and even substitutions included within the scope of the concepts and techniques of this disclosure.

[0028] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe multiple constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0029] When it is mentioned that a component is "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or directly coupled to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when it is mentioned that a component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0030] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0031] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in software that includes one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory 17) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit 12) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1) can invoke at least one of the more than one stored instructions from the storage medium and execute that instruction. This enables the machine to operate in a manner that performs at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The more than one instruction may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between semi-permanent and temporary storage of data in the storage medium.

[0032] In this disclosure, the orientation of the aerosol generating device 1 can be defined using a Cartesian coordinate system as a reference. The x-axis direction in the Cartesian coordinate system can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0034] 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 a heater 18. However, those skilled in the art will understand that, according to the design of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, certain components may be omitted. Figure 1 The shown components may include some of the constituent elements, or new constituent elements may be added.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit 13 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 12. For example, the sensor unit 13 may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a reuse sensor, an overly moist sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge sensor, a cap sensor, and / or a motion sensor. In addition, the sensor unit 13 may also include various sensors such as a liquid level sensor for sensing the remaining liquid in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for sensing water immersion in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0036] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature at which the heater 18 is heated. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 18, or the heater 18 itself may function as a temperature sensor. As an example, the temperature sensor can be used to measure the impedance of the heater 18. The impedance of the heater 18 may be correlated with the temperature of the heater 18. The temperature sensor can measure the current and / or voltage applied to the heater 18 (or induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance of the heater 18 can be calculated. The control unit 12 can estimate the temperature of the heater 18 based on the calculated impedance.

[0037] As an example, the temperature sensor may include a resistive element (e.g., a thermistor) whose resistance value changes in response to temperature changes in the heater 18. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature changes of the heater 18 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0038] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of the heater 18. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater 18, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heater 18 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0039] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to a surface of the power supply 11 (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board. As an example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power protection circuit (PCM), and the temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11 together with the power protection circuit.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may also be arranged inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 1 to sense the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0041] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0042] As an example, the suction sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1, and the control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the internal pressure. The internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the gas flow channel. The suction sensor may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1 corresponding to the gas flow channel.

[0043] As another example, the suction sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow channel, the space where the aerosol-generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), the heater 18, etc. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on the signal output from the temperature sensor corresponding to the temperature of the airflow channel, etc.

[0044] As another example, the suction sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor can measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the suction sensor can correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the suction sensor can output both a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the suction sensor. In this case, the control unit 12 can receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0045] As another example, the suction sensor may include a capacitive sensor. In this disclosure, a capacitive sensor may also be referred to as a cap sensor or capacitive sensor. When a user performs suction, temperature changes and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol-generating article, thereby potentially changing the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0046] 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.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion sensing sensor may be disposed around the perimeter of the insertion space.

[0048] As an example, the insertion sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The control unit 12 may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0049] As another example, the insertion sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and the at least one coil may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, a change in the magnetic field may be generated around the coil through which the current flows when the aerosol generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The control unit 12 may sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current). Alternatively, an inductive heating element (SUS) may also be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the dielectric portion of the aerosol generating article). Even in this case, the magnetic field around the coil may change based on the insertion or removal of the heating element or the like in the insertion space, and the control unit 12 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the current characteristics of the inductive sensor.

[0050] The insertion sensing sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and can be implemented by various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) used to sense the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generating articles. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor can also include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor may also include a switch, etc., for sensing pressure generated by the aerosol-generating article.

[0051] According to one embodiment, a reuse sensing sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article has been reused. As an example, the reuse sensing sensor can be a color sensor for sensing the color of the aerosol-generating article. If a user uses the aerosol-generating article, the color of a portion of the outer casing of the aerosol-generating article may change due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor can output a signal corresponding to the optical characteristics (e.g., wavelength of light) of the color of the outer casing based on the light reflected from it. If a color change is detected in a portion of the outer casing, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has been used.

[0052] According to one embodiment, an over-humidity sensing sensor can sense whether an aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitive sensor. As an example, the control unit 12 can confirm the level range that the signal level falls into according to a lookup table, and determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0054] As an example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for sensing an identification substance (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., packaging component) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may illuminate the identification substance (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification substance may include a substance that emits light of a specific wavelength based on the illuminated light. The control unit 12 may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the range of said wavelengths.

[0055] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. Depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0056] As another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When the packaging and / or interior (e.g., the dielectric portion) of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space includes a conductor, the characteristics of the current sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the inserted aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor.

[0057] Cigarette identification sensors are not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented using various sensors for sensing whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or for sensing the type of aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, cigarette identification sensors can also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the cartridge sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cartridge. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall effect sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the cap sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cap. For example, the cap sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall effect sensor (HAL IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device 1. If the cap is installed in or removed from the housing, the cap sensing sensor can output a signal corresponding to the installation or removal, and the control unit 12 can sense the installation or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the installation or removal.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the motion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion sensing sensor can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0061] According to one embodiment, in addition to the sensors described above, the sensor unit 13 may also include at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System (GPS)), or a proximity sensor. Since a person skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the output unit 14 can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, a display, a haptic unit, and / or an audio output unit. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 may include the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the installation and / or removal status of the cap, or a status where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., abnormal object detected). The display can visually provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), etc. If the display includes a touchpad, the display can also be used as an input unit 15. The haptic unit can tactilely provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the tactile part may include a vibrating motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The sound output part can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the sound output part can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the power source 11 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The power source 11 may include one or more batteries. The power source 11 can supply power to heat the heater 18. Furthermore, the power source 11 can supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1, such as the control unit 12, sensor unit 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source 11 can be a replaceable (detachable) battery (hereinafter, a removable battery). The removable battery can be installed in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating apparatus 1, or it can be removed from the battery housing. The removable battery can be charged via wired and / or wireless means.

[0064] According to one embodiment, heater 18 receives power from power source 11, thereby enabling it to heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or aerosol generating substance within the cartridge. Aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include heater 18 for heating the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge heater for heating the cartridge (i.e., the solid and / or liquid medium).

[0065] According to one embodiment, heater 18 can be a resistance heater. For example, a resistance heater may include resistive materials such as metals or metal alloys like titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The resistance heater can be implemented using a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with conductive tracks, or a ceramic heating element.

[0066] According to one embodiment, heater 18 may be an induction heating heater. For example, an induction heating heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) that heats up by a magnetic field. An alternating current flowing through an induction coil can cause the induction coil to generate a magnetic field. The generated magnetic field can pass through the heater and can generate eddy currents in the induction heating element. Based on the generation of eddy currents, the induction heating element can be heated. According to one embodiment, the induction heating element may also be included inside the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium section). In this case, the induction heating element included inside the aerosol generating article can also be heated by an induction coil.

[0067] The heater 18 is not limited to the examples above, and may include various heating methods, structures, components, etc. for heating aerosol generating articles and / or smoke cartridges, or may be used in place of them.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the input unit 15 can receive information input by a user. For example, the input unit 15 may include a touch panel, a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the memory 17 is hardware used to store various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed in the control unit 12 and data to be processed. For example, the memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card microtype, card-type memory (e.g., SD (Secure Digital) or XD (Extreme Digital) memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. For example, the memory 17 may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic devices). For example, the communication unit 16 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ (Adaptive Network Topology) communication unit, a Cellular Network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a Computer Network (e.g., a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide Area Network (WAN)) communication unit, etc.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the entire operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The control unit 12 may be implemented by an array of multiple logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller (MCU) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains that the control unit may also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by supplying power to the heater 18 via the control power supply 11. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 and / or the power supplied to the heater 18 based on the temperature of the heater 18 sensed by a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). The control unit 12 can also control the temperature of the heater 18 and / or the power supplied to the heater 18 based on temperature curves and / or power curves stored in the memory 17.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heater 18 by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heater 18 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 heater 18, and a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) for converting the power supplied to the induction coil (not shown). The DC / AC converter can be implemented using a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including multiple switching elements. For example, the power conversion circuit may include at least one switching element such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), etc.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can regulate the current and / or voltage supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulses input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit (not shown). The duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply 11.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 using at least one of pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID) methods. For example, the control unit 12 can use PWM to supply current pulses with a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature as the control objective based on a temperature curve. The control unit 12 can use PID to control the power supplied to the heater 18, which is a feedback control method based on the difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, the integral value of the difference over time, and the derivative value of the difference over time.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine the target power as a control objective based on the power curve. Over time, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 to correspond to the preset target power.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can detect the user's suction by sensing the power supplied to the heater 18. More specifically, the control unit 12 can use a PID control method to control the power supplied to the heater 18. When the user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the space where the aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), the heater 18, etc. Therefore, during the PID power control, the power (or current) supplied to the heater 18 may change. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on the controlled power change.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit based on the temperature of the heater 18 exceeding a preset limit temperature, so as to reduce the power supplied to the heater 18 or interrupt the power supply to the heater 18.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the charging / discharging of the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can use a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine the temperature of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 exceeds a first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can cut off the charging of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 exceeds a second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 11 (e.g., discharging). The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage and / or current detection values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article relative to the insertion space. For example, if the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18. If the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heater 18. If the temperature of the heater 18 is above a limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heater 18 is above a set slope, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 18 based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the aerosol generating article is determined to be in an over-humidity state by using an over-humidity sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), the control unit 12 can increase the power supply time to the heater 18 (e.g., preheating time).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on whether the aerosol-generating article has been reused. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the heater 18.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on whether the cartridge is attached and / or removed. For example, if the cartridge sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the cartridge is in a detached state, the control unit 12 can control the interruption of the power supply to the heater 18 or prevent the supply of power to the heater 18.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on whether the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is depleted. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the temperature of the heater 18 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period of the heater 18 (i.e., the preheating interval), it can determine that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is depleted. In the case that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heater 18.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on whether the cartridge is available. For example, if the control unit 12 determines, based on data stored in the memory 17, that the current number of puffs exceeds the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge, it can determine that the cartridge cannot be used. Alternatively, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge cannot be used if the total heating time of the heater 18 exceeds a preset maximum time or the total electrical power supplied to the heater 18 exceeds a preset maximum electrical power. In this case, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 to be interrupted or not to be supplied with power to the heater 18.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on the user's suction. For example, the control unit 12 can use a suction sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine whether suction has occurred and / or the intensity of suction. If the number of suctions has reached a preset maximum number of suctions and / or no suction is detected for a preset time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heater 18. When suction is sensed, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on whether the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is genuine and / or its type. For example, the control unit 12 can use a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type. As an example, if the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be counterfeit, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heater 18. If the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be genuine, the control unit 12 can control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heater 18. As another example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 in different ways depending on the type of aerosol-generating article (or cartridge). More specifically, if the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a first aerosol generating article (or first cartridge), the control unit 12 can control the temperature and / or power of the heater 18 based on a first temperature curve (or first power curve). If the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a second aerosol generating article (or second cartridge), the control unit 12 can control the temperature and / or power of the heater 18 based on a second temperature curve (or second power curve).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13. For example, if the number of suctions counted by the suction sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to provide information that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end its operation in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner. For example, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to provide information about the temperature of the heater 18 in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of predetermined events. For example, events may include operations performed in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 such as sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, starting heating of the aerosol generating article, sensing suction, ending suction, sensing overheating of the heater 18, sensing overvoltage applied to the heater 18, ending heating of the aerosol generating article, turning the power supply of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 11, sensing overcharging of the power supply 11, and ending charging of the power supply 11. For example, the history of events may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the sensing value of the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). For example, if the predetermined event is that the heater 18 is detected to be overheating, the log data corresponding to the event may include data about the temperature of the heater 18, the voltage applied to the heater 18, the current flowing in the heater 18, etc.

[0091] 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.

[0092] According to one embodiment, if authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., heating function). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique phone number representing the user, and whether the user has completed authentication.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send data about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply 11, operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The sent data can be output through a display or the like on the external device.

[0094] According to one embodiment, if a location search request for the aerosol generating device 1 is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit 12 can control the tactile unit to vibrate, or control the display to output objects corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0095] According to one embodiment, if firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can perform a firmware update.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send data about the detection values ​​of at least one sensor unit 13 to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the detection values ​​through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit 12 can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve.

[0097] Although Figure 1 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include at least one switching element and may disconnect the power supply 11 in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging. The aerosol generating device 1 may also include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0098] The aerosol generating article mentioned in this disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium section) and at least one filter rod. The heater 18 may be arranged corresponding to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may contain at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating substance, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating substance may contain glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the additive may contain flavoring agents and / or organic acids, or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may contain an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., the aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine), and / or may contain solid tobacco substances (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). Tobacco substances can be contained in the aerosol generating rod in various forms such as shreds, granules, and powder. According to one embodiment, the additives in the aerosol generating rod may contain an alkaline substance. Based on the alkaline substance, the nicotine in the tobacco substances contained in the aerosol generating rod can have an alkaline pH value (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, the aerosol generating rod can release free base nicotine even at lower temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod may comprise two or more aerosol generating rods, and the two or more aerosol generating rods may each contain tobacco substances and / or non-tobacco substances. Additionally, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each be wrapped by at least one wrapper, and / or wrapped together by at least one wrapper. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0099] The cartridge mentioned in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing substances found in tobacco (including volatile tobacco flavor components) or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. Additionally, the cartridge may include a storage section for containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or a liquid delivery member for impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery member may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The cartridge heater may be included in the cartridge in the form of a coil surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery member or in a structure contacting one side of the liquid delivery member. Alternatively, the cartridge heater may also be included in an aerosol-generating device 1 that can be separated from the cartridge.

[0100] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0101] 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 a heater 18 (e.g., Figure 1 (The heater 18). However, the components included in the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited to... Figure 2 As should be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment, some of the constituent elements shown may be omitted, or new constituent elements may be added. Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "externally and internally heated type" aerosol generating device that heats the inner and outer sides of the aerosol generating article 2. In the following figures, with... Figure 1 Repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0102] 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 by recessing into the interior of the housing 10 to a predetermined depth, allowing at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 to be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may be greater than the length of the region of the aerosol generating article 2 containing the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the interior of the housing 10, and the upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 may protrude outward from the housing 10. A user may hold the protruding upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 in their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0103] According to one embodiment, heater 18 can heat the aerosol-generated article 2.

[0104] Reference Figure 2 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a receiving portion 102p, which includes an insertion space 102s for receiving the aerosol generating article 2. The heater 18 may include a first heater 182 as an internal heating type and a second heater 183 as an external heating type. The first heater 182 can heat the interior of the aerosol generating article 2, and the second heater 183 can heat the exterior of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0105] The aerosol generating device 1 includes a sensor 130 located outside the aerosol generating article 2. The sensor 130 can detect the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space 102s of the aerosol generating device 1. The sensor 130 can be configured outside the aerosol generating article 2. The sensor 130 can be configured in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is located, corresponding to the first heater 182.

[0106] The aerosol generating article 2 can extend relatively long along the length direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The aerosol generating article 2 may include a first segment 2a, a second segment 2b, a third segment 2c, and a fourth segment 2d arranged sequentially along the extension direction.

[0107] When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the first heater 182 can be inserted into a portion of the first segment 2a. The sensor 130 can be configured externally to the first segment 2a, corresponding to the position of the first heater 182. The sensor 130 can be located externally to a portion of the first segment 2a.

[0108] The second heater 183 may be disposed outside the aerosol generating article 2 and extend from another part of the first segment 2a toward the second segment 2b. The other part of the first segment 2a where the second heater 183 is located may be equivalent to the rest of the first segment 2a except for the part of the first segment 2a where the first heater 182 is located.

[0109] According to the aerosol generating apparatus 1 of the above embodiment, the sensor 130 can be configured in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is located. Since the heat generated in the second heater 183 is not directly transferred to the sensor 130, the reliability and durability of the sensor 130 can be improved.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the internally heated heater can extend relatively far upward within the space (i.e., the insertion space) into which the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted. For example, as shown, the internally heated heater can include rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating elements, but can also include various heating elements such as tubular or plate-shaped heating elements. The internally heated heater can be inserted through the lower part of the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0111] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0112] For example, a resistance heater may include a resistive material on its inner side (e.g., an internal hollow or inner surface) or outer side (e.g., an outer surface), and can be heated as an electric current flows through the resistive material. In this case, the resistance heater may be electrically connected to a power source 11 and can be heated directly by receiving current from the power source 11.

[0113] For example, for an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an induction coil surrounding at least a portion of an internal heating type heater (e.g., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the heater's length). In this case, to improve the efficiency of induction heating, a magnetic flux concentrator or similar device may also be included outside the induction coil. The induction heating heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) and may generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil. According to one embodiment, the induction heating heater (e.g., an induction heating element) (or a heater module including it) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing 10.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the first heater 182 can also be a multiple heater. The multiple heater may include a plurality of first lower heating elements and can be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2. The plurality of first lower heating elements can be arranged side-by-side along the length direction. The plurality of first lower heating elements can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, and can be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the plurality of first lower heating elements can be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the plurality of first lower heating elements can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first part and a second part of an aerosol generating rod. Furthermore, if the first heater 182 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of the plurality of first lower heating elements. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first part and a second part of a heater 182. In addition, the heater and / or induction coil may include three or more.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the induction heating element is arranged (or contained) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the medium section), and can be implemented such that the induction heating element contained inside the aerosol generating article 2 heats up based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil.

[0116] The second heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the externally heated heater can extend upwardly and relatively long around the space where the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the externally heated heater can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. As an example, the externally heated heater can include a tubular shape (e.g., cylindrical) with a hollow interior. The externally heated heater can also include a shape with a hollow interior that surrounds the hollow space. In this case, the externally heated heater can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be referred to as a film heater. The externally heated heater can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The externally heated heater is capable of heating the outside of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the hollow space.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Alternatively, for an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an external heating type heater formed of a tubular induction heating element, and may include an induction coil surrounding at least a portion of the external heating type heater (e.g., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the heater's length). Furthermore, the induction coil 181 may also include a fan coil. Additionally, in the case where the external heating type heater is a resistance heater, heat can be generated by the flow of current through the tubular resistance heater (e.g., a thin-film heater). Furthermore, an insulating material may be arranged on the exterior of the external heating type heater. This reduces the heat dissipated from the second heater 183 in a radially outward direction and applied to the exterior of the housing 10.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the second heater 183 can be a multiple heater and may include second lower heating elements. The multiple second lower heating elements can be arranged side-by-side along the length direction and each surrounds at least a portion of the insertion space. The multiple second lower heating elements can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, and can be heated sequentially or simultaneously. Alternatively, if the second heater 183 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which may be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of the multiple second lower heating elements. Alternatively, the first induction coil and the second induction coil may also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first portion and a second portion of a second heater 183.

[0120] According to one embodiment, an airflow channel for air circulation can be provided in the aerosol generating apparatus 1. For example, the housing 10 may include a structure (e.g., a hole) that allows air to flow from the outside into the interior of the housing 10. The air flowing into the interior of the housing 10 can enter the aerosol generating article 2 through its lower end (i.e., upstream side). The aerosol generated by heating the aerosol generating article 2 can be inhaled into the user's mouth along with the inflowing air through its upper end (i.e., downstream side).

[0121] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to another embodiment. Figure 4 It is Figure 3 A perspective view showing a portion of the elements of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment.

[0122] according to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 of the illustrated embodiment can generate aerosols by heating the aerosol generating article 2.

[0123] The aerosol generating device 1 includes: a heater 18 for heating the aerosol generating article 2; and a sensor 130 for detecting the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 to generate a signal.

[0124] The heater 18 includes a first heater 182 and a second heater 183. The first heater 182 can generate heat inside the aerosol generating article 2 and heat the interior of the aerosol generating article 2. The second heater 183 can generate heat outside the aerosol generating article 2 and heat the exterior of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0125] The second heater 183 has a tubular shape for containing the aerosol-generating article 2. For example, the second heater 183 may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0126] The first heater 182 can be inserted into a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 via one end of the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the second heater 183. The lower part of the first heater 182 can be supported by the first bracket 25.

[0127] The second heater 183 may include a heat pipe 183s and a thin-film heater 183h surrounding the heat pipe 183s.

[0128] The heat pipe 183s may have a hollow cylindrical shape and contain the aerosol generating article 2. The heat pipe 183s may contain a thermally conductive material capable of transferring heat to the aerosol generating article 2. For example, the heat pipe 183s may contain a thermally conductive metal material such as aluminum or stainless steel.

[0129] A thin-film heater 183h may be disposed outside the heat-conducting pipe 183s. The thin-film heater 183h may surround and support the heat-conducting pipe 183s. The thin-film heater 183h may include an insulating substrate and a heating pattern 183p located on the surface of the insulating substrate. When power is supplied to the heating pattern 183p, the heating pattern 183p may generate heat. The insulating substrate of the thin-film heater 183h may, for example, include flexible polyimide.

[0130] A second support 22 is attached to one end of the second heater 183. The second support 22 supports the second heater 183. An inlet guide 21 is attached to the other end of the second heater 183. The inlet guide 21, the second heater 183, and the second support 22 can form a receiving space for accommodating the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0131] The upper end of the first heater 182 may protrude into the receiving space formed by the inlet guide 21, the second heater 183, and the second support 22.

[0132] The aerosol generating article 2 can extend relatively long along the length direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating device 1. The aerosol generating article 2 may include a first segment 2a and a second segment 2b arranged sequentially from one end of the aerosol generating article 2 along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0133] When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the first heater 182 can be inserted into a portion of the first segment 2a.

[0134] The second heater 183 may be disposed outside the aerosol generating article 2 and extend from another part of the first segment 2a to at least a part of the second segment 2b. The other part of the first segment 2a where the second heater 183 is located may correspond to the remaining part of the first segment 2a other than the part of the first segment 2a where the first heater 182 is located.

[0135] With the structure in which the first heater 182 is inserted into a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 and the second heater 183 is located outside another portion of the aerosol generating article 2, the entire area of ​​the aerosol generating article 2 can be effectively heated.

[0136] The first segment 2a and the second segment 2b of the aerosol-generating article 2 may contain different substances from each other. For example, the first segment 2a may contain an aerosol-generating agent such as glycerol, so that a larger amount of aerosol can be generated when the first segment 2a is heated. The second segment 2b may contain a medium capable of imparting flavor and / or nicotine to the aerosol formed in the first segment 2a.

[0137] Since the first segment 2a and the second segment 2b are responsible for different functions related to aerosol generation, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 can heat each of the first segment 2a and the second segment 2b within different temperature ranges. For example, the first segment 2a can be heated in a temperature range of approximately 100 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius using a first heater 182. And the second segment 2b can be heated in a temperature range of approximately 200 degrees Celsius to 280 degrees Celsius using a second heater 183.

[0138] Sensor 130 can generate a signal by detecting whether the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into or removed from the aerosol generating device 1. For example, depending on whether the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into or removed from the aerosol generating device 1, sensor 130 can generate a signal by detecting a change in the dielectric constant around sensor 130. As another example, sensor 130 can generate a signal indicating the type of aerosol generating article 2 by detecting changes in dielectric constant that vary depending on the type of aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the aerosol generating device 1.

[0139] The sensor 130 can be configured on the exterior of the aerosol generating article 2. The sensor 130 can be configured corresponding to the first heater 182 inserted inside the aerosol generating article 2. "The position of the sensor 130 corresponds to the first heater 182" can mean that the positions of the sensor 130 and the first heater 182 correspond to each other with reference to the direction in which the aerosol generating article 2 extends (Z-axis direction).

[0140] Sensor 130 may be located outside a region of the first segment 2a. Sensor 130 may be configured outside the aerosol generating article 2 in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is configured. Sensor 130 and the second heater 183 may be configured sequentially along the extending direction of the aerosol generating article 2. As an example, sensor 130 and the second heater 183 may be configured spaced apart from each other along the extending direction of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0141] By configuring the sensor 130 in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is located, the impact of heat generated in the second heater 183 on the sensor 130 can be minimized. That is, by configuring the sensor 130 in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is located, the heat generated in the second heater 183 is not directly transferred to the sensor 130, thus ensuring the reliability and durability of the sensor 130's operation.

[0142] An air supply port 22p can be formed between the first support 25 and the second support 22. Air flowing from the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 into the interior of the aerosol generating device 1 can be supplied to one end of the aerosol generating article 2 via the air supply port 22p.

[0143] The second support 22 may extend circumferentially along one end of the second heater 183 in a manner surrounding the first support 25. The second support 22 may have a plate shape or annular shape with a through hole at its center. The first support 25, which supports the first heater 182, is configured to pass through the through hole at the center of the second support 22. An air supply port 22p may be formed by the inner wall of the second support 22 facing the first support 25 and the outer wall of the first support 25.

[0144] The aerosol generating device 1 may include: an inlet pipe 31 for allowing external air to flow into the interior of the aerosol generating device 1. The inlet pipe 31 may extend along the extending direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The inlet pipe 31 may extend outside the second heater 183 along the extending direction of the second heater 183. The inlet pipe 31 includes: an inlet port 31a, open to the outside; an outlet port 31b, open to the air supply port 22p inside the aerosol generating device 1; and an internal flow path 31f, through which air can flow.

[0145] External air flowing into the aerosol generating device 1 via the inlet pipe 31 can flow along the flow path 31f inside the inlet pipe 31, which is separate from the external surface of the second heater 183.

[0146] The air supply port 22p may include an expansion portion 22e, the size of which expands toward one end of the aerosol generating article 2. The diameter of the end of the air supply port 22p, which is open toward one end of the aerosol generating article 2, increases toward the aerosol generating article 2, thereby forming the expansion portion 22e. The expansion portion 22e may be formed by an inclined surface or a curved surface that is inclined toward the aerosol generating article 2.

[0147] Air from the air supply port 22p can pass through the expansion section 22e at the end of the air supply port 22p and flow smoothly into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 through the surface of one side end of the aerosol generating article 2. Under the action of the expansion section 22e, a sufficient amount of air can be supplied to one side end of the aerosol generating device 1 at an appropriate pressure.

[0148] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a sealing portion 23 disposed between an inlet pipe 31 and an air supply port 22p. The sealing portion 23 allows air from the inlet pipe 31 to flow to the air supply port 22p. The sealing portion 23 may include a connecting hole 23a communicating with a discharge port 31b of the inlet pipe 31. The sealing portion 23 may include a hollow chamber 23b. One side of the chamber 23b is connected to the connecting hole 23a, and the other side of the chamber 23b is connected to the air supply port 22p. Air flowing into the chamber 23b via the connecting hole 23a can be transferred to the air supply port 22p.

[0149] The sealing portion 23 may include a bottom hole 23c through which the first bracket 25 passes. The sealing portion 23 may contain an elastic material such as rubber or silicone. Since the bottom hole 23c of the sealing portion 23 and the outer surface of the first bracket 25 are in close contact with each other, the bottom hole 23c of the sealing portion 23 and the outer surface of the first bracket 25 can be sealed.

[0150] Furthermore, the upper surface of the sealing part 23 is coupled to the lower side of the second bracket 22, so that the joint between the upper surface of the sealing part 23 and the lower side of the second bracket 22 can be sealed.

[0151] The first support 25 and / or the second support 22 are completely sealed by the sealing part 23. Therefore, the phenomenon that droplets generated by the condensation of a portion of the aerosol generated in the aerosol generating article 2 leak through the first support 25 and the second support 22 into other spaces inside the aerosol generating device 1 is minimized.

[0152] A terminal 183t is provided at one end of the thin-film heater 183h. The terminal 183t can be electrically connected to the heating pattern 183p and protrudes downward from one end of the thin-film heater 183h. A connecting wire 183w can be electrically connected to the terminal 183t of the thin-film heater 183h. The connecting wire 183w can pass through the wiring channel 22w of the second bracket 22 and extend to the lower part of the second bracket 22.

[0153] The other end of the first bracket 25 can protrude downward through the bottom hole 23c of the sealing part 23. The other end of the first bracket 25 can be integrally connected to the component bracket 25c. For example, the first bracket 25 and the component bracket 25c can be integrally formed using a plastic injection molding process. The component bracket 25c can include a circuit board 12b inside it.

[0154] The first heater 182, supported by the first bracket 25, can be electrically connected to the heater wiring 182c. The heater wiring 182c can extend downward along the interior of the first bracket 25 and be electrically connected to the circuit board 12b inside the component bracket 25c.

[0155] Furthermore, the connection wiring 183w, which is electrically connected to the terminal 183t of the second heater 183, can pass through the component bracket 25c and be electrically connected to the circuit board 12b.

[0156] The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a heat insulation tube 41 disposed outside the second heater 183. One end of the heat insulation tube 41 is connected to the inlet guide 21, and the other end of the heat insulation tube 41 is connected to the second support 22. The heat insulation tube 41 may be disposed spaced outward from the outer surface of the thin-film heater 183h. The heat insulation tube 41 can block heat discharged from the thin-film heater 183h to the outside. The heat insulation tube 41 may, for example, include a vacuum space or a heat-blocking material such as a graphite sheet inside it.

[0157] The heat insulation tube 41 can minimize the transfer of heat generated in the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0158] The aerosol generating device 1 may further include an electromagnetic wave shielding tube 42 disposed outside the heat insulation tube 41. The electromagnetic wave shielding tube 42 may be, for example, a heat-blocking film containing graphite.

[0159] According to the electromagnetic wave shielding tube 42, it is possible to shield the leakage of electromagnetic waves that may be generated during the operation of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0160] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to yet another embodiment.

[0161] according to Figure 5 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 of the illustrated embodiment includes: a heater 18 for heating a portion of an aerosol generating article 2 that extends elongated along one direction (Z-axis direction); a sensor 130 for detecting the aerosol generating article 2; and a control unit 12 for controlling the heater 18 based on the signal from the sensor 130.

[0162] The aerosol-generating article 2 may include a first segment 2a, a second segment 2b, a third segment 2c, and a fourth segment 2d arranged sequentially along the extending direction of the aerosol-generating article 2. The first segment 2a may contain an aerosol-generating agent such as glycerol to generate an aerosol. The second segment 2b may impart a fragrance and / or nicotine to the aerosol. The third segment 2c may cool the aerosol. The fourth segment 2d may function as a filter to filter out a portion of the substances in the aerosol.

[0163] Heater 18 includes a first heater 182 and a second heater 183, which are used to generate heat when an electric current is applied. As one example, the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 may have different temperature coefficients of resistance. As another example, the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 may have the same temperature coefficient of resistance.

[0164] The first heater 182 can be inserted into a portion of the first segment 2a of the aerosol generating article 2. The second heater 183 can be disposed outside the aerosol generating article 2. The second heater 183 can be disposed in a different portion than the portion of the first segment 2a into which the first heater 182 is inserted. "The second heater 183 is disposed in a different portion than the portion of the first segment 2a into which the first heater 182 is inserted" can mean that, in the extending direction of the aerosol generating article 2, the geometric center of the first heater 182 and the geometric center of the second heater 183 are different from each other. Therefore, a portion of the first heater 182 and a portion of the second heater 183 can be configured to overlap each other in the extending direction of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0165] Sensor 130 can be configured externally to the aerosol generating article 2 in a manner corresponding to the first heater 182. Sensor 130 can be configured externally to the aerosol generating article 2 in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is located. Sensor 130 can generate a signal by detecting changes in dielectric constant caused by the insertion of the aerosol generating article 2 into the aerosol generating device 1 and / or changes in dielectric constant caused by the removal of the aerosol generating article 2 from the aerosol generating device 1.

[0166] The control unit 12 can control the heating operation of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 based on the signal from the sensor 130. For example, the control unit 12 can control the electrical power supplied to each of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183, or the duration of the power supply, to cause the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 to heat up within different temperature ranges. As another example, the control unit 12 can independently control the heating start time, heating duration, and heating stop time of each of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183. As yet another example, the control unit 12 can control the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 based on their different temperature profiles.

[0167] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to yet another embodiment.

[0168] according to Figure 6 The first heater 182 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 in the illustrated embodiment may be a resistance heater that generates heat when an electric current is applied.

[0169] The second heater 183 can be an induction heater that generates heat by means of induction heating. The aerosol generating device 1 may include an induction coil 181, which is controlled by the control unit 12 and is capable of generating an alternating magnetic field. The induction coil 181 may be disposed outside the second heater 183 in a manner that surrounds the second heater 183. The second heater 183 can generate heat based on the alternating magnetic field generated in the induction coil 181.

[0170] The sensor 130 can be configured outside the aerosol generating article 2 in a manner corresponding to the first heater 182. The sensor 130 can be configured outside the aerosol generating article 2 in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is located. Furthermore, the sensor 130 can be configured outside the aerosol generating article 2 in a region different from the region where the induction coil 181 is located. To minimize the influence of the alternating magnetic field generated in the induction coil 181 on the sensor 130, the sensor 130 and the induction coil 181 can be configured spaced apart from each other along the extending direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0171] The control unit 12 can control the heating operation of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 based on the signal from the sensor 130. The control unit 12 can control the heating operation of the first heater 182 by controlling the power supplied to the first heater 182. Furthermore, the control unit 12 can control the heating operation of the second heater 183 by controlling the power supplied to the induction coil 181.

[0172] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to yet another embodiment.

[0173] according to Figure 7 The first heater 182 and the second heater 183 of the aerosol generating device 1 shown can both be induction heating type heaters that generate heat by means of induction heating.

[0174] The aerosol generating device 1 may include an induction coil 181, which is controlled by a control unit 12 and is capable of generating an alternating magnetic field. The induction coil 181 may be disposed outside the second heater 183 in such a way that it surrounds at least a portion of the first heater 182 and at least a portion of the second heater 183.

[0175] The first heater 182 generates heat based on the alternating magnetic field generated in the induction coil 181, thereby heating the interior of the aerosol generating article 2. The second heater 183 generates heat based on the alternating magnetic field generated in the induction coil 181, thereby heating the exterior of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0176] Sensor 130 can be configured on the exterior of aerosol generating article 2 in a manner corresponding to the first heater 182. Sensor 130 can be configured on the exterior of aerosol generating article 2 in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is configured. Furthermore, sensor 130 can be configured on the exterior of aerosol generating article 2 in a region different from the region where the induction coil 181 is configured. "Sensor 130 is configured in a region different from the region where the induction coil 181 is configured" and "Sensor 130 is configured in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is configured" can mean that, based on the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of aerosol generating article 2, sensor 130 is configured at a position different from the positions of the second heater 183 and the induction coil 181.

[0177] In order to minimize the effect of the alternating magnetic field generated in the induction coil 181 on the sensor 130, the sensor 130 and the induction coil 181 can be arranged apart from each other along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0178] The control unit 12 can control the heating operation of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 based on the signal from the sensor 130. The control unit 12 can control the heating operation of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 by controlling the current supplied to the induction coil 181.

[0179] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which an aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to yet another embodiment. Figure 9 It is shown that... Figure 8 A diagram illustrating the state of different types of aerosol generating items 2′ inserted into the aerosol generating device 1.

[0180] Figure 8 The aerosol generating item 2 inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 and Figure 9 The types of aerosol-generating items 2′ inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 are different from each other. Figure 8 The length of the first segment 2a of the aerosol-generating article 2 shown is longer than Figure 9 The length of the first segment 2a of the aerosol-generating article 2′ shown. And, Figure 8 The length of the second segment 2b of the aerosol-generating article 2 shown is shorter than Figure 9 The length of the second segment 2b of the aerosol-generating article 2′ shown.

[0181] according to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 of the illustrated embodiment can efficiently heat different types of aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'.

[0182] The heater 18 of the aerosol generating device 1 includes: a first heater 182, which can be inserted into one end of the aerosol generating articles 2, 2'; and a second heater 183, which can be located outside the aerosol generating articles 2, 2'.

[0183] The first heater 182 may include first lower heating portions 182a and 182b, which are divided in a manner corresponding to a portion of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'. For example, the first lower heating portions 182a and 182b may be divided along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'. The first lower heating portions 182a and 182b may include a short heater 182a formed with a shorter length and a long heater 182b formed with a longer length in the extension direction of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'.

[0184] The control unit 12 can independently control each part of the first lower heating units 182a and 182b. For example, when only the short heater 182a is heating, the short heater 182a can be used for heating. Figure 9 The aerosol generating article 2′ shown is the shorter first segment 2a. Furthermore, it can be heated when only the longer heater 182b heats up, or when both the longer heater 182b and the shorter heater 182a heat up together. Figure 8 The first segment, 2a, is shown as the longest. In... Figure 8 and Figure 9 The portion that performs the heating action of the first lower heating section 182a, 182b is shown in the center using shading.

[0185] "The first lower heating sections 182a and 182b are divided in a manner corresponding to a portion of aerosol-generating items 2 and 2'" could mean, for example... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, there are cases where the lengths of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2' along the extension direction of each part of the first lower heating section 182a and 182b are set differently from each other, and / or the parts of the first lower heating section 182a and 182b are arranged at different positions along the extension direction of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'.

[0186] The embodiments are not limited to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The structure of the first lower heating parts 182a and 182b is shown. For example, the various parts of the first lower heating parts 182a and 182b may have the same length or different lengths, and are arranged at different positions along the extension direction of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'.

[0187] The second heater 183 may include second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, 183c divided in a manner corresponding to another portion of the aerosol generating articles 2, 2'. "The second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, 183c divided in a manner corresponding to another portion of the aerosol generating articles 2, 2'" may mean that the positions of each of the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, 183c are different on a portion and another portion of the aerosol generating articles 2, 2' where the first heater 182 is arranged along the extending direction of the aerosol generating articles 2, 2'. However, as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, a portion of the second lower heating portions 183a, 183b, and 183c can be configured to overlap with a portion of the first heater 182 along the direction in which the aerosol generating article 2 extends.

[0188] For example, the second heater 183 can be divided along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'. The second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c can be arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'. The second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c may include an upstream heater 183a, an intermediate heater 183b, and a downstream heater 183c arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'.

[0189] The embodiments are not limited to the number and structure of the second lower heating parts 183a, 183b, and 183c. For example, the number of the second lower heating parts 183a, 183b, and 183c may be two or more.

[0190] Each of the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c may have a different length from each other in the direction along which the aerosol generating articles 2, 2' are located. As another example, at least a portion of the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c may have the same length from each other.

[0191] The control unit 12 can independently control each part of the second lower heating unit 183a, 183b, and 183c. For heating... Figure 8 The shorter second segment 2b of the aerosol generating article 2 shown can be heated by controlling the intermediate heater 183b via the control unit 12. Furthermore, in order to heat... Figure 9 The aerosol generating article 2' shown has a relatively long second segment 2b, which can be controlled by the control unit 12 to heat the upstream heater 183a, intermediate heater 183b, and downstream heater 183c. Figure 8 and Figure 9The lower heating elements 183a, 183b, and 183c are shown in the center using shading to indicate the parts that perform the heating action.

[0192] Sensor 130 can generate a signal by detecting the insertion and / or removal of aerosol generating articles 2, 2' from aerosol generating device 1. For example, as aerosol generating articles 2, 2' are inserted into or removed from aerosol generating device 1, sensor 130 can detect changes in the dielectric constant around sensor 130 and generate a signal. As another example, sensor 130 can generate a signal indicating the type of aerosol generating article 2 by detecting changes in dielectric constant that vary depending on the type of aerosol generating article 2, 2' inserted into aerosol generating device 1.

[0193] according to Figure 8 The length of the first segment 2a of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1 in the embodiment shown is... Figure 9 The lengths of the first segments 2a of the aerosol generating articles 2' inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1 shown are different from each other. Therefore, the sensor 130 can generate a signal indicating the type of aerosol generating articles 2 and 2' inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1 by detecting the difference in dielectric constant caused by the different lengths of the first segments 2a.

[0194] Figure 10 It shows the basis Figures 1 to 9 A flowchart illustrating the operation steps of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0195] Figure 10 The flowchart shown illustrates an example of the operation of aerosol generating device 1, in order to address, for example... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, different types of aerosol generating items 2 and 2' are inserted into the aerosol generating device 1.

[0196] Figure 10 The steps shown in the flowchart can be performed using the control unit 12, the sensor 130, the first heater 182, and the second heater 183.

[0197] In the sensor detection step S100, the sensor 130 can generate a signal by detecting the insertion of aerosol generating articles 2 and 2' into the aerosol generating device 1 and the removal of aerosol generating articles 2 and 2' from the aerosol generating device 1.

[0198] When the sensor 130 detects the insertion of aerosol generating items 2 and 2' into the aerosol generating device 1 and generates a signal, the sensor 130 can generate a signal based on the type of aerosol generating items 2 and 2'.

[0199] In the aerosol generating article type identification step S110, the control unit 12 can identify the type of aerosol generating articles 2 and 2' based on the signal generated by the sensor 130.

[0200] The control unit 12 can execute the first heater operation control step S120 and the second heater operation control step S130 based on the identified types of aerosol generating articles 2 and 2'. The first heater operation control step S120 and the second heater operation control step S130 can be executed simultaneously or sequentially at different times. For example, the control unit 12 can select a temperature curve corresponding to the identified types of aerosol generating articles 2 and 2' from a preset temperature curve. The control unit 12 can apply the selected temperature curve to each of the first heater operation control step S120 and the second heater operation control step S130. The temperature curve applied to the first heater 182 in the first heater operation control step S120 and the temperature curve applied to the second heater 183 in the second heater operation control step S130 can be different from each other.

[0201] According to the above embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 includes a first heater 182 that is inserted into a part of the aerosol generating article 2 and heats the interior of the aerosol generating article 2, and a second heater 183 that is located outside another part of the aerosol generating article 2 and heats the exterior of the aerosol generating article 2, thus enabling effective heating of various areas of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0202] Furthermore, since the control unit 12 can control the heating action of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 according to the type of aerosol generating article 2 based on the signal of the sensor 130, it can effectively heat various types of aerosol generating articles 2.

[0203] According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 is an aerosol generating apparatus 1 for generating aerosols by heating an aerosol generating article 2. It includes: a first heater 182 for generating heat inside the aerosol generating article 2; a second heater 183 for generating heat outside the aerosol generating article 2; and a sensor 130 disposed outside the aerosol generating article 2 in a region different from the region where the second heater 183 is disposed, corresponding to the first heater 182, and for detecting the aerosol generating article 2 to generate a signal.

[0204] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 can generate heat when an electric current is applied.

[0205] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include an induction coil 181 that generates an alternating magnetic field when an electric current is applied. At least one of the first heater 182 and the second heater 183 may generate heat by means of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 181.

[0206] According to another embodiment, the second heater 183 may have a tubular shape for receiving the aerosol-generating article 2. The first heater 182 may be inserted into one end of the aerosol-generating article 2 received in the second heater 183.

[0207] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include: a first support 25 supporting the first heater 182. Furthermore, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include: a second support 22 supporting one end of the second heater 183. Additionally, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include: an air supply port 22p formed between the first support 25 and the second support 22. Air flowing in from the outside can be supplied to one end of the aerosol generating article 2 via the air supply port 22p.

[0208] According to another embodiment, the second bracket 22 may extend circumferentially along one end of the second heater 183 in a manner that surrounds the first bracket 25. An air supply port 22p may be formed by the inner wall of the second bracket 22 facing the first bracket 25 and the outer wall of the first bracket 25.

[0209] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include an inlet pipe 31 for allowing external air to flow into the interior of the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a sealing portion 23 disposed between the inlet pipe 31 and the air supply port 22p, and for directing air flow from the inlet pipe 31 to the air supply port 22p. At least one of the first support 25 and the second support 22 may be sealed by the sealing portion 23.

[0210] According to another embodiment, the second heater 183 can extend in one direction. Furthermore, the inlet pipe 31 can also extend in one direction. External air flowing into the aerosol generating apparatus 1 via the inlet pipe 31 can flow along a flow path 31f inside the inlet pipe 31, which is separated from the external surface of the second heater 183.

[0211] According to yet another embodiment, the air supply port 22p may include an expansion portion 22e. The expansion portion 22e may be formed by expanding at least a portion of the size of the air supply port 22p toward one end of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0212] According to another embodiment, the second heater 183 can contain the aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating device 1 may further include a heat-conducting pipe 183s for transferring heat to the aerosol generating article 2. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a thin-film heater 183h surrounding the heat-conducting pipe 183s and generating heat when an electric current is applied.

[0213] According to yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a heat insulation tube 41 for blocking heat discharged from the thin-film heater 183h to the outside. The heat insulation tube 41 may be spaced apart from the outer surface of the thin-film heater 183h and is configured to surround the second heater 183.

[0214] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating article 2 may include a first segment 2a and a second segment 2b arranged sequentially from one end of the aerosol generating article 2 to the other end. A first heater 182 may be inserted into a portion of the first segment 2a. A second heater 183 may extend from another portion of the first segment 2a to at least a portion of the second segment 2b.

[0215] According to yet another embodiment, sensor 130 may be located on the outer side of a portion of the first segment 2a. Sensor 130 and second heater 183 may be arranged sequentially along the extension direction of aerosol generating article 2.

[0216] According to another embodiment, the first heater 182 may include first lower heating sections 182a and 182b divided in a manner corresponding to a portion of the aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a control unit 12 for independently controlling the first lower heating sections 182a and 182b. Based on signals generated from the sensor 130 according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article 2, the control unit 12 may control the first lower heating sections 182a and 182b to cause at least a portion of the first lower heating sections 182a and 182b to heat up.

[0217] According to another embodiment, the second heater 183 may include second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c, divided in a manner corresponding to another portion of the aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a control unit 12 for independently controlling the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c. Based on signals generated from the sensor 130 according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article 2, the control unit 12 may control the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c to cause at least a portion of the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c to generate heat.

[0218] According to another embodiment, the first heater 182 may include first lower heating sections 182a and 182b divided in a manner corresponding to a portion of the aerosol generating article 2, and the second heater 183 may include second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c divided in a manner corresponding to another portion of the aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a control unit 12 for independently controlling the first lower heating sections 182a and 182b and the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c. Based on signals generated from the sensor 130 according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article 2, the control unit 12 may control the first lower heating sections 182a and 182b and the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c to generate heat in at least a portion of the first lower heating sections 182a and 182b and at least a portion of the second lower heating sections 183a, 183b, and 183c.

[0219] The above-described embodiments of this disclosure or other embodiments are not exclusive to each other or different from the structures or functions of each of the above-described embodiments of this disclosure and other embodiments, and can be used together or combined.

[0220] For example, this means that structure A described in a particular embodiment and / or the accompanying drawings can be combined with structure B described 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.

[0221] The detailed description above should not be construed as limiting in any way, but rather 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.

[0222] Industrial applicability The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating apparatus capable of effectively heating multiple areas of an aerosol generating article.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, which generates aerosols by heating an aerosol generating article, characterized in that... include: A first heater is used to generate heat inside the aerosol-generating article; A second heater is used to generate heat on the exterior of the aerosol-generating article; as well as A sensor is configured on the exterior of the aerosol-generating article in a region different from the region where the second heater is located, corresponding to the first heater, and is used to detect the aerosol-generating article and generate a signal.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the first heater and the second heater generates heat when an electric current is applied.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes induction coils that generate an alternating magnetic field when an electric current is applied. At least one of the first heater and the second heater generates heat by means of the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second heater has a tubular shape for containing the aerosol-generating article. The first heater is capable of being inserted into one end of the aerosol-generating article housed in the second heater; Also includes: The first bracket supports the first heater. The second bracket supports one end of the second heater, and An air supply port is formed between the first bracket and the second bracket; Air flowing in from the outside is supplied to one end of the aerosol-generating article via the air supply port.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second support extends circumferentially along one end of the second heater in a manner that surrounds the first support. The air supply port is formed by the inner wall of the second bracket facing the first bracket and the outer wall of the first bracket.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: An inlet tube is used to allow external air to flow into the interior of the aerosol generating device, and A sealing part is disposed between the inlet pipe and the air supply port, and allows air to flow from the inlet pipe to the air supply port; At least one of the first bracket and the second bracket is sealed by the sealing part.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second heater extends in one direction, and the inlet pipe extends in said one direction. External air flowing into the interior of the aerosol generating device via the inlet pipe flows along a flow path inside the inlet pipe, which is separated from the external surface of the second heater.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The air supply port includes: An expansion portion is formed by expanding at least a portion of the size of the air supply port toward one end of the aerosol generating article.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second heater includes: A heat pipe, capable of containing the aerosol-generating article and used to transfer heat to the aerosol-generating article; and A thin-film heater surrounds the heat-conducting tube and generates heat when an electric current is applied.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: A heat insulation tube, separated from the outer surface of the thin-film heater, is configured to surround the second heater to block heat from being discharged from the thin-film heater to the outside.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aerosol generating article includes a first segment and a second segment arranged sequentially from one end of the aerosol generating article to the other end. The first heater can be inserted into a portion of the first segment. The second heater extends from another part of the first segment to at least a part of the second segment.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The sensor is located on the outside of said portion of the first segment. The sensor and the second heater are arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol-generating article.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heater includes a plurality of first lower heating sections divided in a manner corresponding to a portion of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating device also includes a control unit for independently controlling multiple first lower heating units. Based on the signal generated by the sensor according to the characteristics of the aerosol-generating article, the control unit controls at least a portion of the plurality of first lower heating elements to heat up.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second heater includes a plurality of second lower heating sections divided in a manner corresponding to another portion of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating device also includes a control unit for independently controlling multiple second lower heating units. Based on the signal generated by the sensor according to the characteristics of the aerosol-generating article, the control unit controls at least a portion of the plurality of second lower heating units to heat up.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heater includes a plurality of first lower heating sections divided in a manner corresponding to a portion of the aerosol-generating article. The second heater includes a plurality of second lower heating sections divided in a manner corresponding to another portion of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating device also includes a control unit for independently controlling multiple first lower heating units and multiple second lower heating units. Based on the signal generated by the sensor according to the characteristics of the aerosol-generating article, the control unit controls at least a portion of the plurality of first lower heating parts and at least a portion of the plurality of second lower heating parts to generate heat.

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